Handmade Peace

Just Add Water

2012-02-17T19:43:00.001-09:00

My first attempt at a hemp twine pot holder. This pot holder has been in the "work in progress" pile for some time. It is the third or fourth try, and has been looked over because up until last night it was curled up and distorted. I just could not get the two different sizes to lay right with each other.

After doing a major clean up of the craft room I looked at this and it dawned on me....just block it! So to the sink it went. Amazing what a little bit of water will do.

Next up hemp medallions to hang in the window.

I am a Gaget Queen

2012-02-07T15:22:00.001-09:00

Electronic gadgets, I LOVE them! I have a laptop, net book, BeBook reader, PSP, three different mp3 players and that is the small list. My newest favorite toy is my Kindle Fire, that my husband got it for me for Christmas. I was really nervous asking for the Fire after reading all the reviews on Amazon...but now that I own it, I can't believe I ever lived without it. (Amazon is not paying me to say this)

So when does the crafting come in? Well, all of my gadgets NEED cozies, and the Kindle Fire is no exception. I looked everywhere on the web for a nice cover/case, but all were super expensive and they weren't anything special. Of course this means I made one.

The cozy is crocheted using Rowan "Cotton Braid" yarn.

I made the button myself.

My Sweet Pea

2012-02-01T11:39:00.001-09:00

Another Merry Heart-mas present complete! For the past few Saturdays, my friend and I have been getting together so I can teach her how to crochet. This has been great for me in many ways. For one, I am making dedicated "crochet" time and the bonus "girl" time is good for the soul as well.

This pattern is from the book "Stitch 'N Bitch Crochet: The Happy Hooker", called the Sweet Pea Shawl. It was an easy pattern to follow, but it took a few rows for me to get the hang of it.

Happy Birthday

2012-01-28T15:21:00.000-09:00

January 28th, 2011 a very special baby came into this world. He was born very premature, I was only at 22 weeks. Since he arrived so early, I never got the chance to make him a blanket, even to this day I wish I would of had one to wrap him in when he was born, so for his first birthday I finally made him a special blanket.

Happy 1st Birthday Orlen,
hope your party in Heaven was filled with cake, balloons and love.

Merry Heart-mas!

2012-01-23T11:02:00.002-09:00

Christmas is not over at my house. In fact, in some ways it is in full swing. No, there is not a Christmas tree in my living room or any decorations for that matter. Even though I did not get presents, or cards in the mail in time for Christmas, I am still going to finish them and mail them for a new holiday I have created, Heart-mas Day! After much agonizing over the fact that I was sick and couldn't get presents or cards out, my very dear friend suggested I send out Valentines presents instead, and that is just what I have decided to do.

This past weekend, I finally finished my sisters Heart-mas present. A beautiful shawl made out of Bamboo yarn in a rich plum color. The pattern can be found HERE.

The pattern was easy to follow, it is a two row repeat pattern, so easy to memorize. I opted for a different edging. The Bamboo yarn was the best part of working on this project. It was an absolute delight to crochet with it, soft and silky. The final project has a wonderful drape and feels nice against the skin.

Edge Directions:
Note: I did not fasten off the yarn, instead started the edging at the end of my last row.

Starting in the corner, chain 5.
Sc in first dc from previous row, sc in tr, sc in next dc, ch 3, dc in ch 2 space, ch 3, repeat until you reach the top edge. The top is edged with single crochet across, three in each "space" (dc and chain).

Now lets hope my sister doesn't read this blog before she gets her Merry Heart-mas present in the mail.

Failed Attempt

2012-01-19T11:58:00.002-09:00

Since last Friday, I have been working on a tutorial for sea glass coasters. Unfortunately, as of today, I still don't have any made and have gone through numerous batches of homemade "clay". I have a great vision in my head and hopefully one day (soon), it will become something.

Other crafts??? Not really.

Don't Throw Them Out

2012-01-11T09:53:00.002-09:00

A favorite "hanging around the house" outfit of mine is men's ribbed tank tops and pajama pants. The tank tops take a bit of abuse, cooking grease splatter, bleach spots from doing laundry and crafting, all take its toll on them. At some point they they have to retire, but not before they get a makeover and a new leash on life.

At one time, these three tank tops were a solid red, blue and black. The red was riddled with bacon grease stains all over the front of it, so much so I had stopped wearing it. The blue and black tank tops had bleached out spots on them. In an attempt to make them wearable again, I used a bleach tie dye bath. I am not as happy with the blue and black tank tops as much as I am with the way the red turned out.

Do you want to give an old tank top some new life? Here is how to make the stripped tank.

First, in a sink or small bucket pour about 1/4" layer of bleach. If you would like, you can dilute the bleach with a little water.

Next, fold the tank in an accordion, starting from the bottom edge, see picture below. Just like you fold a paper fan.

Then fold in half, see picture below. Using two rubber bands, wrap them around the folded tank top. Do you notice the light pink stripes, that is where I wrapped the rubber bands.

Set the tank top in the bleach, do not submerge. You want the tank to absorb the bleach at it's own speed. Wait about 5 to 10 minutes, or until you have achieved your desired result. (I did not time how long my tank was in the bleach.) When you think it is done bleaching, rinse the bleach off the tank by spraying first with hot water, them cold water on the top. Notice in the above picture, the tank is red on one side and light pink/purple on the other. The red was the top and the pink/purple was the bottom. I did not move the tank in the sink and to rinse, sprayed directly on the top.

Once fully rinsed, undo the rubber bands and wring as much water out of the tank as you can. Dry and enjoy!

If you have any questions regarding this tutorial, please feel free to email me at hippiemissy@gmail.com

Still Christmas?

2012-01-04T12:22:00.000-09:00

With the unfortunate sickness I have endured for the last three weeks, Christmas was kind of put on hold. Anyone I send gifts and cards to, have been ignored. The plan is to get greeting cards and stuff out by next week.

Almost three weeks ago, I started on my annual Holiday ornaments and only managed to make two of them. It is my tradition to send a handmade ornament with each of my holiday cards. This year, a Santa hat! Although, I may choose something else to send next week as Christmas is over.

I looked everywhere on the Internet for a cute crochet Santa Hat pattern. Nothing seemed to fit my criteria, easy and quick, so I made up my own pattern.

Materials
Red yarn, any medium weight will do. (I used Simply Soft by Caron.)
Lion Brand Fun Fur in White
H Crochet Hook
Yarn Needle
* Optional: Small or Medium size craft Bell

Pattern
With Red
Ch 3, slst in 1st ch to create circle
Row 1:   Ch 2, 6dc in circle, slst in 1st dc (not the ch 2)
Row 2:   Ch 2, *1dc, 2dc* repeat around, slst in 1st dc (not the ch 2)
Row 3:   Ch 2, *1dc, 2dc* repeat around, slst in 1st dc (not the ch2)
Row 4:   Ch 2, dc around, slst in 1st dc (not the ch2)
Row 5:   Ch 2, dc around, slst in 1st dc (not the ch2)
Row 6:   Ch 2, dc around, slst in 1st dc (not the ch2)

With white.
Row 7:   Ch 2, dc around, slst in 1st dc (not the ch2)
Row 8:   Ch 2, dc around, slst in 1st dc (not the ch2)

Finishing
Fasten off. Fold white rows up over the red. Using the white tail and yarn needle, make a small stitch to fasten the white to the red. With the red tail, create loop by tying the end inside the tip of the hat.

Variations
Add bell to top of hat.
Using the White Fun Fur yarn, whip stitch a few times at the top of the hat to create a white "pom pom" looking top.
If you leave a long tail in the beginning, you can make a crochet chain loop to hang it.

* If you have any questions, or find any problems with this pattern, please let me know.

Lucky Dog

2011-12-28T09:14:00.003-09:00

Still suffering from the awful sinus infection! Can you believe that? It is true, although for the last two days I can actually say it feels a tad better (but only a tad). Christmas was such a bust and I feel awful about it. No one even received a card this year. I think I have a way to remedy that though.

Last Friday, feeling defeated by the sinus infection and wanting to give it the big "up yours", I decided to make dog treats for my dog Kane.

I used a recipe from the book, "Real Food for Dogs", called Great Gravy Cookies.

Ingredients I used:

(slightly modified from book and amounts have been doubled)

5 cups whole wheat flour

4 small jars beef-flavored baby food

1 cup rolled oats

2 eggs

1 cup nonfat dry milk

1 cup water

2 Tbsp brown sugar

1 package bacon, cooked and crumbled

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Lightly pat your hands with flour and shape the mix into a big ball. Flatten the ball using a floured rolling pin. Use a cookie cutter to cut the dough into shapes. Place the cookies on a greased cookie sheet (I did not grease the baking sheets and did not have a problem with sticking). Bake for 25 minutes or until lightly browned. Allow the cookies to cool before serving and store them in an air-tight container in the refrigerator.

Kane says they are delicious!

Hello...hello...Is this thing on?

2011-12-20T10:09:00.001-09:00

Have you ever suffered from a sinus infection?

Two Sundays ago, my head was pounding and congested. I fought thru it for two days at work till I couldn't take the headache any longer. Vitamin A, Garlic pills, Vitamin C and lots and lots of ibuprofen and rest. After a week there was little improvement.

I did see my doctor yesterday and was prescribed antibiotics, although for now I am not able to feel any of their healing powers...maybe in another day or two.

Some may ask, well what about Christmas? Well I don't have a tree up, I haven't bought any presents, I haven't made any presents, no stockings hung with care....to sum it up, my house looks like bah hum bug!

Hard at Work

2011-12-08T09:01:00.001-09:00

Every Christmas, I always take on more projects than I could ever accomplish...but if I even get half of what I want to make finished then I will be happy. Last weekend I made a trip to the local yarn shop to buy supplies for a couple shawls. I walked out with a load of yarn from the "sale" table, all $4.00 per skein.

On the table, the Elise Shawl and the Sweet Pea Shawl. Still unsure who will received these. The Elise Shawl is almost complete, maybe 6 to 8 more rows. I have been working on it since Sunday. Last night I felt bored with that pattern so, figured I would change things up and start on the Sweet Pea Shawl.

What a disaster! I sat down and started the 202 foundation chains...around 160 I lost count. After recounting and re-reading the pattern I was ready to start on the first row.

The first row on the foundation chain is always the most tedious. All the counting and looking for the tiny back loop to insert your hook and nothing to really hold on to, it is very time consuming. At the end of the first row, in what seemed to take hours, I noticed I had extra foundation chains. Hmm, I must of (re)counted the foundation chain wrong. I started on the second row and got three quarters of the way across, when I discovered a mistake on the first row. The only way to fix it...to undo everything all the way back to the mistake.

Take two. Trying to be more careful, I take even more time completing the first row. Start on the second row. Halfway across....another mistake found on the first row.

Deep breath.....count to ten.....scream a little out loud.

Take three. This time I paid all of my attention to crocheting the row. I blocked out the TV, my husband, my cat trying to love on my elbow and my dog asking to go outside. This row was going to get done, even if took me till 3 in the morning. At the end of the row I had to add back the "extra" foundation chains. I also looked very carefully at the row to make sure there weren't any mistakes....it was perfect. After re-crocheting the first row so many times I was exhausted. I made it through row two and half of row three when I set it down for the night.

Only 22 T-Shirts

2011-12-03T12:19:00.001-09:00

FINISHED!!!!!

It only took 22 t-shirts and a few hours to finish, ok more than a few hours, but it is finished, and it is beautiful! The time it took to make this rug was well worth it. Will there be more rugs like this in my future, probably not. There will be more pot holder though, they only took a night to finish.

Thanksgiving

2011-11-29T08:42:00.001-09:00

It was a wonderful day.

The alarm buzzed at 6:30am. I immediately got started on making the stuffing, and preparing the turkey. Yes I am a vegetarian and yes I still cooked a turkey...I am the only one who doesn't eat meat, have to please the masses.

Before I knew it the big football game was about to start...my husbands Green Bay Packers Vs. my Detroit Lions for the Turkey bowl. This has been a much anticipated football game in my house.

The in-laws came over around 1:30 and the meal was done around 3. Everything turned out just as I had hoped, delicious.

Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Counting Down to Thanksgiving...Day 4, 5 and 6!

2011-11-22T08:29:00.001-09:00

The decorating and crafts are the fun part of planning a dinner, but half of the preparation is cleaning.

Day four was spent reorganizing the kitchen. The goal is to have almost nothing on the counters, to give plenty of room to prepare and serve all the food.

Day five, well I took day five off....It is important to take time off for football. Go Lions!

Day six and another turkey.

The pattern for this turkey came from CraftPassion.com. The only modifications to the pattern is the head and I did not crochet a back piece.

Gobble, Gobble...

Counting Down to Thanksgiving...Day 3

2011-11-18T09:13:00.001-09:00

Did you know you only have 6 more days to plan for the big feast?

The trip to the supermarket was not as wonderful as I had hoped. Unfortunately, the seas were bad and the ships loaded with food were delayed. So instead of stocked shelves, they were empty. Produce was very limited....not even one bunch of celery, even the frozen vegetables were hard to come by. The only milk available was fat free. I could go on and on, but I will save you my rant, and at least about 75% of my shopping list was found.

Regardless of the difficult shopping trip, my Thanksgiving spirit is still in tact. When I was able to settle down and relax for the night, I whipped together a Turkey Pot Holder.

I used this pattern....Click Here! by Yarn Pixie.

The pattern was written very well, but I wanted it a little bigger. Here are my changes.....

* I added a fourth row to the body...Ch 2, dc in same stitch, (1 dc in next stitch, 2 dc in next stitch) repeat till end, join with sl st in top of ch 2.

* I added a fourth feather...on row one I made 25 sc, this includes the sc to join the yarn to the body. For row two, repeat (sk 2 sts, 7 dc in next st, sk 2 sts, ss in next st) four times, instead of three. Row three, repeat (hdc, sk next st, 7 dc in next st, sk next st, hdc, sk next st) three times, instead of two. As you can see, I also used three different yarns for the feathers.

* I made the head a little bigger. I started with 6 sc and repeated row 4. The number of stitches are different than the patterns count, so I just repeated what the patterned called for. Example: Pattern says for Row 5 - sc 2 tog, 2 sc, sc 2 tog, ch 1, turn.....I repeated sc 2 tog, 2 sc till I was at the end.

* I made the legs a little larger. Ch 6, 6sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc back loop of next ch, repeat down the chain for a total of 4 sc, join to body, fasten off.

If you have any questions about my changes, feel free to email me at hippiemissy@gmail.com

Thank You Yarn Pixie for a wonderful pattern!!!

Counting Down to Thanksgiving...Day 2

2011-11-17T10:41:00.001-09:00

When preparing for a dinner party the first thing you have to decide on is of course the meal. I have learned the hard way, that when you live on an island, you must buy the holiday food essentials early! Last year, my family made last minute plans. This meant that the day before Thanksgiving, I was at the store searching for pumpkin pie mix, pie shells and cool whip. In the real world this would be ok, not here. Of the two stores to shop on the island, one was completely sold out of pumpkin pie mix, and whipped cream. The other store had pumpkin pie mix, but I had to buy whipped cream in the aerosol can. In the end, we were able to enjoy pumpkin pie, but the shopping trip was not fun.

This year, I made sure to get everyone to make a plan.

The menu......

A Very Traditional Thanksgiving Feast

Turkey
A basic roasted Turkey, smothered in butter and herbs,
cooked on a bed of onions, carrots and celery.

Simple Stuffing

Prepared inside the turkey and in a casserole pan.

Gravy

Party Potatoes

Green Bean Casserole

Root Vegetables

This is because vegetarians, like me,

need something more than just side dishes.

Pumpkin Pie

Thanksgiving Countdown

2011-11-15T12:24:00.001-09:00

There is exactly one week, seven days, 168 hours, or 10,080 minutes to prepare for Thanksgiving! (not counting today and Thanksgiving day) It is amazing how much preparation goes into a meal that is devoured in less than an hour. This year, Thanksgiving Day will be celebrated at my home. This is exciting, because I love hosting dinners and parties. The planning, the decorating, the cooking....puts me in my happy place.

Day one of the count down, felt fall leaves to decorate the kitchen counter where the food will be served. Found the pattern on Martha Stewart.com

Hungry?

2011-11-11T08:53:00.001-09:00

Wow you must be hungry! I haven't shown any new recipes in a very long time. This is not my favorite page in the book, but it is one of the favorites from the book. Last weekend I went to the local hardware store and was helped by one of the semi regular poker playing guys.

"I tried to recreate one of your recipes." He said.

"Really? Which one?"

"The Ham and Cheese Bagels. But I couldn't get them like yours."

Insert slight blush here. It certainly makes a girl feel good when complemented on her cooking.

These will not disappoint your party guests or family. So without further ado, the highly requested and easily put together....

Ham and Cheese Pizza Snacks

(Since I made the above recipe page I have modified it slightly)

Ingredients:
Shredded Colby Cheese
Sliced Deli Ham (I use packaged sandwich ham slices)
Mayonnaise
Mustard
Italian Seasoning, Pepper
Bagels, Full Size

Directions:
In a bowl, combine the Cheese, Ham, Mayo, Mustard and seasonings. Spread over Bagels. Place on an ungreased baking sheet. Broil about 6 inches from heat for about 4 minutes, or until cheese starts to turn golden brown. (see picture) Serve hot.

To serve to a group, divide each bagel into four pieces.

Something Quick

2011-11-08T16:35:00.001-09:00

Another project for the spare room...a stuffed animal hammock. You have seen them everywhere, this is not a new idea. These guys were resting on the day bed and needed a place to call their own. With a ball of t-shirt yarn I whipped this up in less than an hour.

I used the removable hooks, you can buy them at any department store, to hang the hammock. I liked this idea because then the hooks won't harm the walls.

*Pattern and instructions will be available soon. If you would like to know how to make this project email me at hippiemissy@gmail.com.

Old Jeans Get a New Life

2011-11-04T10:37:00.001-08:00

Old jeans are one of my favorite clothing items to re-purpose. The material is tough, lays out flat without needing to iron and has supplies lots of odd bits to use like labels, zippers, etc.

In an attempt to get myself back on the treadmill and into shape, the "exercise/guest/storage" room in my house is getting a make over to make it more inviting and comfortable. In what I will now refer to as the Girl Cave, because why can't we have a one too, is a daybed used as a couch. For the longest time, all that has covered the futon mattress has been fitted sheets.

Last night that changed, I pulled out all the old jeans I had stored in the craft room and started cutting out 16" x 16" squares. I was able to come up with 20 of these squares. After deciding on the layout to the sewing machine I went. Just a simple quilt.

A perfect fit!

One more row may be added, so the cover can tuck under the bottom part of the cushion. Plus a back still needs to be added (or not).

Not More Knots

2011-11-03T10:58:00.000-08:00

Knot, knot, knot, knot......oh yeah and then Knot some more. Slowly, but steadily the rag rug is coming into shape. It is about two thirds done. I have it laying on the floor waiting for my husband to dig thru his closet and find more t-shirts he doesn't wear. I had not realized how many shirts I would need in order to make the rug as big as it is. BUT, it looks wonderful!!!!!!

My dog, Kane, has already claimed it as his. Everytime it is laid on the floor, he makes his way over to it, then stares at me with a "will you finish this thing already" look on his face.

Just call me a workaholic.

2011-10-24T15:47:00.002-08:00

Yes it has been two weeks since my last post. If you have been reading this blog for any length of time, it happens during this time of year, every year. Tax deadlines.....to put it as simple as I can....tax deadlines suck. They suck my time, energy and creativity.

At this point, I get two and a half months till the next deadline takes over my energy. To really challenge myself, the rag rug is underway.

Little did I know, it is going to take longer than expected. (what's new right?) I had a skein of black that I thought would be enough for the base. After fastening it off, I realized that base needed to be much larger. Two half skeins of blues later, it finally was a good size. Then came time to start attaching the strips. I knew I did not have enough strips cut up, but I did not realize just how short I am.

The rag rug will take quite some time to complete, but it is going to look so neat.

A Visitor

2011-10-10T15:55:00.002-08:00

Finally a visitor to the Bird House!!

I have been waiting weeks for a bird to come to this bird house...WEEKS!! My husband spotted a few of these little birds flying around and alerted me to the small frenzy outside. I started jumping around like a two year old that just received a lolly pop, grabbed my camera and was able to capture this little guy perched getting ready to get some seed from inside.

Under the Covers

2011-10-07T11:09:00.000-08:00

I have had this sketch book for a really long time, maybe 5 or 6 years. For a long time it sat with only a couple pages drawn upon. One day I picked it up and decided that it would serve as a "sketch/journal" for clothing design. Inside it would house cut out pictures of clothing that inspired me, sketches of my own imagination and notes. Basically an inspirational book to keep everything together in one place.

I had tore off the cover, that I created a collage on and didn't like, when I decided the new purpose of this sketch book. For months it sat naked, without a cover...till the light bulb went off. A crocheted cover!

This cover is crocheted directly to the spiral binding. The pattern was made up as I went along and hope to write it out to share. For the final touch, used modge podge to stiffen yarn and create a hard cover.

Princess of Quite A Lot

2011-10-04T15:35:00.000-08:00

The rag rug is taking a lot longer than expected...either that or my motivation for that project hit a low. To break up the monotony, I made this tiara for my soon to be three year old niece.

This was a really really quick project. Took less than an hour and only a small amount of yarn. My niece's birthday is at the end of the month, so I have began making a few things for her. Not sure if she appreciates her Auntie M's handmade gifts as much as I enjoy making them, but till I know different I am going to keep making her things.

Eat, Sleep, Work! Repeat.

2011-09-28T10:53:00.000-08:00

Haven't been able to get any finished projects done of late. It is that time of year, where my "real" job sucks all of my energy and creativity. I hate tax deadlines!! (and "real" jobs, why didn't I choose to be a go-go dancer?)

After logging into blogger, to read various blogs that I follow and feeling really bad about not posting, last night I pulled out my rotary cutter and, despite my aching back and tired eyes, started work on the rag rug.

A year ago, with some left over dye, I tie dyed three old t-shirts to be used at a later time. I love how each shirt became a different shade of blue. These t-shirts were my inspiration for making the rag rug. The rug is going to be about the size of a kitchen mat, maybe a little bit bigger. The colors will form an ombre effect, with speckles of black throughout.

Still to do, cut black strips, finish crocheting the base and put together.

"From grease to shine in half the time".

2011-09-15T15:25:00.000-08:00

I was taught how to make these Tulle Dish Scrubbers, by my wonderful Aunt in Law, three years ago. (and have had the tulle strips cut out and bundled together that long) Unfortunately, last night when I wanted to work on these and finally turn the little bundles of tulle into dish scrubbers, I couldn't remember all the instructions she told me. So I improvised.

Tulle Dish Scrubber

Materials:
Size P Crochet Hook
Tulle
Large eye yarn needle

Directions:
Cut tulle into 3" wide strips. You will need two of these strips to make one scrubber, or a total of 6 yards.

Chain 3, join with slst in first ch to make ring.

R1:   Ch 1, 8 sc in ring, slst in first sc.

R2:   Ch 1, 2sc in each sc from previous row (16 sc), slst in first sc.

R3:   Ch 1, sc around. (16 sc), slst in first sc. (About halfway thru this row you will need to join the 2nd strip of tulle. To do this, with about 4 or 5 inches left on the 1st strip, take the 2nd strip and overlap them. Roll the sides up to "lock" them together.)

R4:   Ch 1, sc around (16 sc), slst in first sc.

R5:   Ch 1, sc2tog around, (8 sc), slst in next stitch.

Fasten off, but do not cut the remaining tail. With yarn needle and remaining tail sew "hole" together. Knot. Tuck the remaining tail into the center of dish scrubber.

If you have any questions or problems with the pattern, please feel free to email me at hippiemissy@gmail.com.

* Title is taken from the Joy Soap commercial.

A Very Berry Harvest

2011-09-14T07:25:00.000-08:00

Salmonberries this year was a bust. I believe with all of our nice weather, it was too sunny and hot for them. I could be wrong but that is the only explanation I can come up with. The raspberries on my property however, are abundant! The bushes are taller then ever and there are more berries than I have the patience to gather.

I was able to make two batches of jam last night and intend on gathering some more berries in a couple days. Still no crochet but my pantry is starting to look really good.

(From Left to right, Fireweed Honey, Raspberry Jam, the last 6 jars of Salmonberry Jelly from last year.)

Summers Over

2011-09-11T10:54:00.000-08:00

They say that when the fireweed flowers bloom to the top of their stalk, summer is over. About two weeks or so ago, there was an article in the local paper about fireweed honey, including a simple recipe. At the time there were tons of fireweed blooming all over the place, even some in my neighbors back yard. I procrastinated and didn't go out in search for fireweed till yesterday.

I buy my dog and cat food from a feed store out the road, it is 10 miles out of city limits. I am sure this seems like nothing to folks that live in big cities, but for me this is a little bit of a drive. So yesterday, I load up my dog, Kane, some baggies, my camera and head out to get pet food. The goal was to look for a patch of fireweed that would yield at least two cups of lightly packed flowers.

I drive and drive and drive and it appears that I have missed the mark. All the fireweed patches are void of any flowers, or only have a few left on them. After an hour or so of driving I give up and take Kane home. My husband calls, from work, asking if I will take him some cold medicine. I agree, and too my delight on the way there I see a small patch of fireweed.

I picked every flower I could get my hands on. After plucking all the flower off, I had 4 lightly packed cups of flowers! Enough for 2 batches.

Single Recipe: (makes 2 pints)
from www.wildsalmonkitchen.com/blog/

1 1/4 cup of water
5 cups of sugar
1/2 tsp alum
1/4 cup of light Karo syrup
2 cups of lightly packed fireweed blossoms

On the stove, stir water, sugar and alum until it comes to a boil. Watch until the liquid changes from cloudy to white. After the syrup turns from cloudy to clear, remove from heat. Add the washed blossoms to the hot syrup. Stir and let steep for 10 minutes. Strain out the flowers. Bring to a boil again. Pour into sterilized jars. If not sealing jars, store in refrigerator.

This is really, really easy to make! I have yet to taste the honey, but if I approve, some lucky people will be getting some for Christmas.

Blank

2011-09-08T10:11:00.000-08:00

That is my creative mind this past week.....blank, empty, blah! I have hemmed pants for a friend though, does that count as crafting. Probably not.

Work as usual is getting in the way with my creative mojo. Really wish I could craft full time for the same salary I am making, but I am sure that is a pipe dream right now.

Also this past week, my oven broke, the hot water heater broke and my husbands truck went into the shop...can you see why I haven't been in the mood to craft?

Anyways enough of my complaining. It is going to give me wrinkles.

Smile, It will make your day better.

2011-09-01T10:14:00.000-08:00

The other day a good friend was over and while we were chit chatting away sitting the couch, she spotted one of my afghans draped over the back of the couch.

"Did you make this?"

"Yes"

and then the question...

"Would you make me one?"

"Sure."

then the demands...

"Can you do Smileys in it? And not so holey, and and..."

After she left, my mind was racing with ideas. What would be the best way to make a blanket with smiley faces incorporated into it? Filet crochet? Surface crochet? Tapestry crochet? Embroidery? This project is going to take some testing.

Test #1: Filet Crochet

To start, I created a "Smiley Face Graph" using my computer. I created a 20 x 20 square graph, where each square is one "Mesh". I pulled out some cheap acrylic yarn from my stash and following the chart, went to work.

Here is how it turned out.

The project is 18" wide by 12" tall. (The size is perfect for a place mat.) The Smiley Face turned out well and I think it would be good for a subtle design element.

Would you like to make your very own Smiley Face?

Smiley Face Filet Crochet Chart

Materials:

Any worsted weight yarn.

Size H Crochet hook

Yarn needle for weaving in ends.

Directions:

Chain 65.

DC in 8th Ch from hook.

*Ch 2, skip 2 ch, DC in next chain.* Repeat from * to * across. (You should end up with 20 open squares.)

Chain 2. Turn.

Now you will start following the chart.

Start with the bottom row.
Even rows worked from Right to Left.
Odd rows worked from Left to Right.
Each square is one "mesh".
White squares are "closed" mesh.
Black squares are "open" mesh.

Here are the first two rows written out...

Row one of chart, (or row 20):

*Two DC into ch 2 space, DC into DC from previous row.* Repeat from * to * across. (20 "closed" mesh)

Chain 2. Turn.

Row two of chart, (or row 19):

15 DC (or 5 "closed" mesh), *ch2, skip 2, DC*, repeat from * to * 11 times (or 12 "open" mesh). 15 DC(or 5 "closed" mesh).

Chain 2. Turn.

If you have any questions or problems with the instructions or how to Filet Crochet email me at, hippiemissy@gmail.com

The Learning Curve

2011-08-31T09:10:00.000-08:00

I am trying to make use of my many crochet books. The one I am diving into right now is "Beyond The Square, Crochet Motifs" by Edie Eckman. This book is filled with crocheted triangles, squares, circles, hexagons and more. It is a granny blanket heaven. I am just starting to get interested in motifs and granny "squares". I think they are beautiful, but I am not a fan of weaving in ends and these motifs require a lot of weaving ends in.

Something that I am really enjoying, is learning and practicing stitches that I don't normally do. I have seen them, but I don't normally incorporate them into my work....but I will from now on.

The squares in the picture above is what I have made so far. The square on the far left is made of Popcorn stitches. The square on the far right is the Leaning Tower stitch. What am I going to do with these? Well you will just have to wait and see. (Unless I don't like it, then you may never see.)

The After Party....way after the party.

2011-08-30T09:29:00.000-08:00

I don't think I will ever get the food blogs posted on the same day each week, but at least I still am writing them. Everyones' had the "7 Layer Dip" at parties, right? I love to make it. It is easy and fast to put together. Here is a new twist on the traditional "7 Layer Dip".

Mexican Roll Ups

Ingredients:
Tortillas
Refried Beans
Shredded Mexican Cheese Blend
Sliced Olives
Guacamole
Chives
Serve with Sour Cream

Directions:
On tortilla, spread a layer of Refried beans, sprinkle a layer of cheese. Make line of olives, guacamole and chives (refer to picture). Roll up tortilla, slice, and ENJOY.

Note: You can heat the beans before you put it on the tortillas, it makes the beans a little easier to spread. You can also put them in the oven covered with foil to warm them, but do this before you cut them.

* If you try any of the After Party recipes, I would love to know what you think. If you changed them up, I would love to know what you did. Email me or comment on this post.

Don't Forget to Accesssorize

2011-08-24T15:39:00.000-08:00

Another attempt at a pattern from one of Leslie Stanfields books, this time from "100 Flowers to Knit & Crochet". With full knowledge that my ability to follow gauge is...well poor, (mainly because I like to play with different yarns that may not be what the pattern calls for, and I also like to use up my stash instead of buying new yarns) I still wanted to try some of the flowers in this lovely book. Hoping to not have a bunch of ends to weave in, I picked a really simple three color flower.

I used bits and pieces of cotton yarn. Didn't need much. For some people a little big, but for me, I think it turned out just the right size! After using a spray starch to shape and stiffen the petals, I used the fabulous E6000 glue to attach a simple hair clip.

This project took absolutely no time at all. Reading and figuring out the pattern took the most time. More of these hair clips coming soon. Maybe I will make all 100 flowers from the book?!?

Success on the 1st Try

2011-08-19T09:50:00.001-08:00

It only took me all week to motivate myself to make something... This week has been a struggle, but with girls night cancelled and my husband out of the house for a few hours, I finally sat down and got my hands busy. Crafting may be like a drug to me...I get such a satisfaction and joy from making things. When I am in a blah mood, if I can get myself to craft, I almost always feel better.

This idea has been bouncing around in my brain for the last week. A rag rug, using old t-shirts with a crochet mesh backing. Instead of just jumping in head first and tackling something as big as a rug, I decided to try a 5" x 5" pot holder first. I am so very happy with the way it turned out, I kind of wish I would of just made the rug.

The pot holder turned out exactly as I wanted it to, which I find amazing! I have written up a pattern and will be sharing very soon if anyone wants it.

Left Overs

2011-08-14T10:58:00.000-08:00

What do you do with lots of left over chicken strips? You use them. The guys must of not been too hungry Friday night or I bought way too much, but have no fear nothing will go to waste.

I present to you, Crispy Chicken Pot Pies:

Original recipe by Handmade Peace.

Ingredients:
Tyson Crispy Chicken Strips
Cream of Potato Condensed Soup
Milk
Pepper, Garlic, Dried Onion
Frozen Peas and Carrots
Biscuits
Shredded Medium Cheese

Directions:
Cook chicken according to package, chop into small cubes. Heat Cream of Potato and milk on low heat till warm. Cook peas and carrots till soft (but not mushy) Cut each biscuit into halves, and press into muffin pan. Mix cream of potato and cooked peas and carrots. Layer in each biscuit cup...chicken, cream of potato mixture and a pinch of cheese.

Bake at 375 degrees for about 15 minutes.

* If you try any of the After Party recipes, I would love to know what you think. If you changed them up, I would love to know what you did. Email me or comment on this post.

Being Lazy

2011-08-11T18:10:00.001-08:00

Not completely lazy though!

This hat has been complete since Sunday, but I have been very lazy with taking pictures and blog posts are more exciting with photos! I bought this pattern HERE. This is actually my third attempt at the pattern. The other two hats came out too small, so I added a row of Double Crochet...and IT FITS.

This two tone hat was complete in two nights. Made with Peaches and Creme black and white. Using Crochet hooks J and G. Pattern is really easy to follow and is flawless.

Tweet Tweet

2011-08-03T10:51:00.001-08:00

This sad little bird house was saved and traveled with me when we moved three years ago into our house. Many times, while living in the trailer the bird house would fall to the ground in heavy stormy weather. Every time it would happen, I would pick it up and place it back in the tree. Hind sight would tell me, that if I wanted it to stay in the tree, I should of just fastened it better.

When we moved, I insisted on bringing it with us. I am not sure why, it wasn't even mine in the first place, just left by the last renter, but I am sort of attached to it. For the last three years though, it has been neglected, sitting in the dark, on a shelf in the shop. It sat there because I wanted to paint it and make it better, but never made the time to just do it. Till now!

I painted the entire thing with regular house paint. Added some new sticks and a new perch. This will be the perfect little home for a family of finches. (and this time I will fasten it better to the tree.)

Back View

Front View

One Night Stand

2011-08-02T09:27:00.002-08:00

As rewarding as it is to finish a big project like a blanket, or clothes...it is just as rewarding to start something and finish it all in one night. This last weekend I put my last store bought wet cloth on my swifter to clean my floors. I vowed that once they were all gone, I would only use reusable cloth. That also meant that I needed to start making some. So, I sat down on the couch for the night with a ball of Peaches and Creme cotton yarn, an H hook, a simple pattern and turned on Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew.

This first one is to get a feel for what will work the best. I want to experiment with different stitches and patterns that will maximize the cleaning power. I found the pattern HERE, but will be making my own pattern for future ones.

It is a tight to put on, but I think that is a benefit, unless after washing it shrinks to much. I have not used it to clean the floors yet and that will be the biggest test.

My swifter sure is pretty now, don't you think?

The After After Party

2011-07-31T11:36:00.000-08:00

This recipe is another one of my favorites. Although, I don't make food or add recipes to the book that the guys don't like.

Stromboli Slices
by Taste of Home Recipes

Ingredients

Refrigerated crusty French loaf
Olive Oil
1 teaspoon of Minced Garlic (found in jars)
Dried Italian Seasoning
Sliced pepperoni
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Meatless spaghetti sauce, warmed

Directions
Unroll loaf of dough at the seam into a square; cut in half. Combine oil, garlic and basil; brush lengthwise down half of each rectangle to within 1/2 in. of edges. Layer brushed side with pepperoni and cheese. Fold plain dough over filling and pinch edges to seal. Place on greased baking sheets.

Bake at 350° for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown. Cut into slices. Serve warm with spaghetti sauce. Yield: 1-1/2 dozen.

The recipe is easy to make and depending on how thin you slice it will feed quite a few. I always tend to cut thing big for the guys. I think they appreciate the bigger bites. My only problem is that the insides always tend to ooze out, but poking a few holes in the top helps.

* If you try any of the After Party recipes, I would love to know what you think. If you changed them up, I would love to know what you did. Email me or comment on this post.

Failed Butterfly Hairclip

2011-07-27T10:16:00.001-08:00

While browsing the craft section at the store, I found some hair clip blanks. Immediately my thoughts turned to the book "75 Birds, Butterflies & Little Beasts to Knit and Crochet by Leslie Stanfield". A friend gave me this books months ago for my birthday, and up until two days ago I hadn't made anything from it.

A butterfly, or oak leaf, or mushroom hair clip, wouldn't that be adorable....I choose a butterfly to start with, should be simple enough, right? The butterfly came out really well. Although this pattern had so many ends to weave in, I am unsure if I will make it again.

The only problem is that it turned out to be 5" x 5.75", and the clips are not that big (or my hair)...

For now it is going to be a coaster for my coffee cup at work. Maybe I should work on scale and gauge some more.

Pattern is also available for free, at LionBrand.com

The Saturday After Party...

2011-07-23T17:22:00.001-08:00

The Saturday after party is back, formerly known as "Finger Food Fridays". The following recipe is a huge hit with all the guys.

Today I give you...

The Taco Chicken Ring

I found the recipe at the Taste of Home website, direct link to recipe HERE

Ingredients:
2 tubes refrigerated crescent rolls

Finely crushed tortilla chips, divided
Finely chopped rotisserie chicken
shredded Mexican cheese blend
Mayonnaise
Chopped green chilies, undrained
Chopped pitted ripe olives
Tomato, chopped
1 tablespoon taco seasoning

Directions:
Unroll crescent dough. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup tortilla chips; press down gently. Separate into 16 triangles.

Place wide end of one triangle, chip side down, 3 in. from edge of prepared pan, with point overhanging edge of pan. Repeat with remaining triangles, overlapping the wide ends (dough will look like a sun when complete). Lightly press wide ends together.

In a small bowl, combine the chicken, cheese, mayonnaise, chilies, olives, tomato, taco seasoning, and remaining tortilla chips. Spoon over wide ends of dough. Fold points of triangles over filling and tuck under wide ends (filling will be visible).

Bake at 375° for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

The only down fall to this recipe is that there is never enough. The guys love this one and there is hardly ever leftovers. I usually make two.

* If you try any of the Saturday After Party recipes, I would love to know what you think. If you changed them up, I would love to know what you did. Email me or comment on this post.

Hap-hap-happy Feet

2011-07-20T11:00:00.000-08:00

"Happy feet! I've got those hap-hap-happy feet!

Give them a low-down beat

And they begin dancing!

I've got those ten little tip-tap-tapping toes,

When they hear a tune

I can't control the dancing, dear,

To save my soul!

(By Cab Calloway )

Crotcheted in a navy blue with yellow trim, in cotton yarn, my feet proudly wear a new pair of house shoes. After testing a few other designs, and only finishing one shoe because I didn't like how they turned out, I almost give up on the idea of house shoes. Then magic happened! After completing the first shoe, I put it on, ready to laugh at how it looked on my feet, but to my surprise it looked great! (and fit perfectly)

After completing the pair I slid them on my feet and propped them on my coffee table. With a big smile on my face I turned to my husband, "Look honey, I have happy feet!".

I like everything about them, except the button. I think I will replace those with some bigger ones. I also think it might be nice to put a thin liner inside. These cute house shoes will be great around the house, on the deck and yard. Plus they are small and flexible enough to throw in my purse, so they can come with me.

Finished...only took nine hours...

2011-07-18T09:50:00.000-08:00

Finished! And I am extremely happy with the way it turned out.

Even has a gate.

Now to get working on the garden that will go behind it.

This will be a piece of cake!

2011-07-16T18:52:00.002-08:00

That is what I thought when I started a project this morning around noon. Still not finished, but progress is good enough, and I am too excited not to share.

The weather was beautiful today so I wanted to be outside. I decided to tackle my backyard, which is my dogs yard. My husband and I have been using our archway from our wedding as a "fence". We used a baby gate in the middle and just blocked the empty space between the archway and the house with some logs and rocks. It worked well enough, but anytime it was really windy the archway would blow over.

Here is the arch. Notice the broken lattice, that is from it falling over.

The first step was to tear it apart. This step proved to be quite the project. They used lots of screws and a lot of them were stripped, rusted, and would break off or not move. I ended up with the sledge hammer!

Once apart, the fun began. To put it back together. I used the base as the main side and the rest of the wood for supports, rails and the gate. I dug out from under the porch some fish netting to cover the whole thing.

Feeling a little sad about my archway getting torn apart, I decided to use some of the lattice to make a beautiful peace sign on the new fence.

I still have to make a gate on the left hand side and tack down the netting some more...but for now, 6 hours later, I am just going to enjoy my new fence.

June 28th? Are you kidding?

2011-07-12T10:15:00.000-08:00

Last post June 28th, wow!

Crafting has come to a slow crawl. I have started several small projects that have just not come out the way I thought they would. I am experimenting with creating patterns for adult slippers and fingerless gloves, but it is a slow process.

I also took a trip to the "mainland" last week to see family and friends, although I wasn't able to see very many friends. It was alright though because I was able to spend lots of time with my nieces, who are 6 months and 2 1/2 years old.

Some exciting news....my Nana Hammock pattern was in the top 10-15 most active recently published designs on Raverly for almost 4 weeks! I am so glad that everyone has enjoyed it. I have to say, the one in my kitchen hasn't been empty since I made it.

Beatlemania

2011-06-28T09:46:00.000-08:00

A very good friend of mine is moving off the island and gave me two dressers. One of them she had painted sea creatures all over it with acrylic paint, for her sons bedroom. This dresser, I wanted to use in my craft room, so the paint didn't bother me too much. In order to "fit" into the craft room, the dresser needed a Beatles makeover.

I started by taking all the hardware off, and went to work washing, scraping and sanding as much of the paint off I could.

Some of the paint was very stubborn. It was ok though because most of it was getting covered.

On a laser printer, I printed out tons of black and white pictures from the internet. Then cut and trimmed all the white space away.

Using a foam brush and Modge Podge Matte I first laid down a layer of newspaper paper. Then topped that with the pictures I had printed out.

The finished project (for now). I still intend to do some more sanding and removing of paint. I am also going to write or paint lyrics all over it. For now it has a great spot in the Craft Room and all the drawers are already full with yarn.

Old Skirt Gets New Life

2011-06-22T10:21:00.000-08:00

I have had this beautiful tie dye sarong for many many years. I would say over 10 years. In the last 8 or so years it has sat in my closet and sat in the craft room pile of "clothes to refashion". I have held on to it for so long, because of the beautiful colors. It was not very functional for me though. I am only 5'2" and sarongs are one size fits most, if you are 6 feet tall. It drug on the floor and did nothing for my shape. It made me look even shorter than I am, accentuated my belly and any sort of wind blew open the sarong exposing my underwear to anyone around me.

After my post yesterday, I motivated myself to pull out the sewing machine and the neglected sarong....and came up with this.

I started by sewing the two ends together to create a large tube. From there I measured how long I wanted the skirt to be (just below my knees) and cut the top of the skirt off. I wanted to leave the bottom in tact, because it has curved corners that I wanted to keep in the design. I used the excess material to edge the bottom of the skirt with a two inch ruffle. The skirt was way to big around the waist, so I had to take that in as well. To hold the skirt up I used the original ties, sewn together and fed them through the top casing.

Voila, an old skirt gets a new life.

ZZZzzzzz, what? Craft?

2011-06-21T11:44:00.001-08:00

All the momentum I had to keep working on projects is gone, at least for this week. This happens to me a lot. I will be charging along, busting out projects like a machine, then just stop. For the last few days I keep looking at patterns and my unfinished project stash, but nothing is catching my eye.

I did try a new recipe last night, Emerils Chocolate Bread. It was very easy to make and it turned out moist and yummy. The only thing I would add is some chocolate chips for more chocolate flavor.

A Place for Everything

2011-06-15T08:52:00.000-08:00

My latest finished project, finished in two nights, the ultimate crochet hook and tools organizer! A few years ago I made a small organizer for my crochet hooks, sewing needles, scissors, etc. I have used the heck out of it, but I just was never big enough or really the best at organizing. After browsing online for some ideas to make a new one, I came up with this...see picture below.

For the cover, to make it a stiffer fabric, I used two yarns held together. One was a solid blue and the other a multicolor. I also used a smaller hook than a yarn gauge would tell suggest. Once open, everything is neatly displayed with it's own spot....look how nicely everything sits.

A place for everything! I really love how each hook has it's own spot and can be arranged in order of size(the other organizer did not do this).

Some cool features: Inside the pocket with the star button is my measuring tape. I have hid my sewing needled under the yarn needles. The felt under the circle holding the yarn needles is where they hide. I did this because sewing needles are small and can get lost or move if not protected.

This organizer will be with me for a long time, although I still may use the old one for a traveling case.

"I'm so pretty, oh so pretty!"

2011-06-13T10:25:00.000-08:00

I have wanted to try crocheting necklaces directly onto chains for a while. I saw it somewhere on the internet and thought it looked pretty. It gives a sturdy foundation to the necklace, a little weight and adds sparkle.

This weekend, I found these 18" chains in the craft aisle at Walmart for only $1.50. They are not sterling silver or any fantastic metal, but for the price a great way to try crocheting on them. For the first necklace, I used a pattern I found in Crochet Today Magazine May/June 2010 issue, but modified it a bit.

This was my first real lace project I have done. I used Crochet thread and a size 2.75mm hook. I really like the delicacy of the crochet thread. Very feminine. To lay nice and flat, I used a light starch spray, ironed it a little and let it air dry the rest of the way.

Since I only had white crochet thread. I decided to try this technique with larger yarn. I used Peaches and Creme black for the second necklace.

This necklace is more bulky. It is more punk, while the other is very Victorian. I made this one as I went along. No pattern. I am not completely sure if I like it yet, but maybe once I find the right outfit I will. Either that or I am buying black crochet thread and re-doing it...

What do you think?

Creating a Happy Workplace

2011-06-10T10:05:00.001-08:00

Happy Friday!! I am very happy it is Friday. My week has been really busy at work and I really need the break.

After Easter, a friend of mine called me up and said, "I have 20 plus Easter Lilies I need to do something with...do you want one? or two, or ten?" Now, I could not take ten, but I thought two would be good. Within 10 minutes of the call she showed up at my office with two beautiful, in full bloom, Easter Lilies. They were beautiful, but the shiny cellophane wrapping the plastic pot was not.

So what did I do...I crocheted a flower pot cover! I used plain old acrylic yarn and just improvised on a pattern. I love them and so far everyone that sees them gets a smile on their face...hopefully it's because they like them too.

* Finger Food Friday will now be posted on Saturdays.

One Ball of Yarn

2011-06-09T12:17:00.000-08:00

After much patience, I broke down and bought a beautiful ribbon yarn by Louise Harding called Thalia, without knowing what I was going to do with it. And later found out it has been discontinued. It was a $10 skein of yarn, but so pretty and different I just could not resist.

I thought at first I would make a continuous scarf/cowl...free form. After knitting about half the skein, it was not going to be big enough to look good, so I unraveled it and started looking for patterns. The search for what to make with this yarn was quite painful. I didn't want to have to buy another skein (I am cheap). It is only about 50 yards, so it had to be a knit pattern. Wanted something I could wear, or at least use. Also wanted something different. After a week of searching I found Vicki Howell's CowlKerchief. It looked simple, yet different and fun.

For a little finishing I crocheted a simple single crochet edge around the whole thing. I also decided to just make a crochet "button". I think it turned out pretty good.

Now what to wear with it...

Finger Food Friday....oh, um Tuesday?

2011-06-07T10:32:00.001-08:00

The weekly "Finger Food Friday", has not been very consistent...but at least I am still doing them right? I had a feeling when I started "Finger Food Friday", that it would be a little challenging for me to post the recipes every Friday. That was one of the reasons I was intrigued to do it. I wanted to challenge myself, have a weekly feature and most of all just share these great recipes. Friday...that is where the problem lays. Work is usually busy that day, my lunch break is spent planning for that night, after work is filled with grocery shopping and cooking and cleaning. Leaving little time or energy to take pictures, and post to the blog. I just might start "Finger Food Thursday"?

Mama Mia Ravioli Bites
Recipe from Pillsbury. Changed a little.

Ingredients:

Pillsbury Crescent Rolls

1 Container Whole Milk Ricotta (15oz)

1 Cup Mozzarella Cheese

1/4 Cup Parmesan Cheese

2 TBSP Chopped Basil

Salt and Pepper

Thinly Sliced Salami, Finely Chopped (2 1/2oz)

Directions:

Pre-heat oven to 375 Degrees.

Unroll Dough, press together seams. Using rolling pin, flatten out slightly. Cut into Squares about 2 1/2" big. Place one square in the bottom of muffin cups. In a medium bowl mix remaining ingredients. Spoon mixture into each cup. Place second square on top of mixture.

Bake at 375 degrees for 10 to 15 minutes (or until golden brown). Serve with warm spaghetti sauce.

My review...these are so delicious! They are a great blend of cheese and spices and the salami fits really well. (or so I am told, I am a vegetarian and tried it without the meat) They were also easy to put together. As with anything the first time I made them it took some time, but now that I know what I am doing they take no time at all. As you can see in the picture I also poked a hole in the top, part for aesthetics and part for ventilation.

* If you try any of the Finger Food Friday recipes, I would love to know what you think. If you changed them up, I would love to know what you did. Email me or comment on this post.

Nana's Need a Place to Relax

2011-06-03T23:12:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't think of a hammock and instantly think of relaxation, sunny skies and fruity frozen drinks (preferably alcoholic). Well at least in my cold part of the world, the fruit for my fruity frozen drinks can benefit from a hammock even if I can't.

The Banana Hammock! Patterned improvised by...me.

I read somewhere that hanging your fruit instead of letting it sit on the counter helps it stay fresh longer. Also if pull apart the bananas from their stem. Attached they ripen faster.

The pattern:

One skein of Lily Sugar and Cream cotton yarn

Size J crochet hook

Yarn needle for weaving in ends.

Chain 44.

Row 1:

DC in third chain from hook. *Chain 1, skip 1 chain, DC in next chain, Repeat from * across till there are two chains left. DC in the remaining 2 chains. Turn.

Row 2:

Chain 2, DC in 2nd DC. * Chain 3, skip chain 1 space, DC, chain 1 space. DC in previous row DC. Repeat from * till last two stitches. DC in remaining stitches. Turn.

Repeat Row 2 till rectangle is desired width.

To finish repeat row 1. Fasten off

To make ties. Chain 50, fasten off. Make 6. Take three of them and knot the ends together. Repeat for the other three. Weave in and out between the end double crochets. And your done. Now go get some bananas.

(If you have problems with my directions, please feel free to contact me and I will try to explain the best I can)

A Break

2011-05-31T11:45:00.000-08:00

With a busy three day weekend planned, a blogging break (and crafting break) was needed. My little island was blessed with sun all weekend and that meant a packed three days. Accomplished lots of yard work, chores, sun bathing and fun. Also the towns annual fair was this past weekend, so everyone was downtown enjoying carnival rides, games, fair food and craft booths.

Spreading Peace

2011-05-25T09:52:00.000-08:00

The other night I went for an ice cream run. I stood in front of all the Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream and this one flavor called to me...."Imagine Whirled Peace". So fitting for me. I really didn't care what the flavor was, I just needed this pint of ice cream. Luckily for me, the ice cream was delicious. It is a Caramel & Sweet Cream Ice Cream, with Fudge Peace Signs & Toffee Cookie Pieces. Mmmmmm Good! As I sat there, pint in one hand, spoon in the other, I noticed words on the inside of the container. Which of course meant I needed to eat the whole thing so I could read each and every word...things like..."Give Peace a chance" and "Love and Peace are Eternal".

The inspiration. After all the ice cream was gone, I had to keep these words! I wrote everything from the inside of the container on a few post-it notes and the light bulb went off. Art! I will make a couple of art pieces to go into my Beatles room (also my craft room).

The process...I started with a piece of linen fabric and spread three different shades of white acrylic paint to create a base. Let that dry. Next layer was the blue, nothing fancy just squeezed out the color on the canvas and used a sponge brush to spread it out. Let that dry. For the next layer, I took my kitchen sink sponge and cut it into a square. Brushed the metallic silver paint onto the sponge and stamped it to the canvas. Let that dry. For the peace signs, I squeezed out two shades of green (one was metallic) in the shape of the peace signs, making numerous lines of paint. Then with scrap paper, laid the paper on top of the paint, pressed down slightly and gently pulled off. Let that dry.

At this point I wanted to cut the canvas and get them into a frame before the words. Using a rotary cutter I cut two identical rectangles from the canvas. Then, using some 1 1/2" x 1/2" wood I created a 16" x 12" frame and stapled the canvas to it. Finally, with dimensional black paint wrote the words. Took a few days, because I wanted to make sure the paint was completely dry before I went to the next layer....but I am very happy with the end results. Not sure the picture does them justice.

"When Ben & Jerry's wanted to talk about peace, we couldn't think of a better person to exemplify the message than John Lennon. Through his art and lyrics he imagined a world without war and asked us all to 'Give Peace a Chance'. We hope this whirly mixture of toffee cookies and fudge peace signs enlightens your bellies and souls and makes you ask what you can do to promote peace in your lives." - on outside of container.

Whoot Whoot, It's Party Time

2011-05-20T23:23:00.000-08:00

Even though it is hard work, I really enjoy creating the Friday night snacks. It is creative and rewarding. Tonight I give you...

Burger Bites

Ingredients:
Rolls
Egg
Minced Onion
Salt/Pepper
1/2 Cup Bread Crumbs
1 lb Ground Beef
Cheddar Cheese

Directions:
Pre-Heat oven to 375 degrees. Beat egg, add onion, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper. Stir in bread crumbs and ground beef, mix well. Press into a 13" x 9" pan. Bake for14 to 16 minutes or until cooked thoroughly. Add a layer of cheese on the beef and let melt in the oven for a few minutes. Cut into squares and put on rolls. Serve with Ketchup and Mustard.

These are always a hit, but they do take some time (bake two pans at the same time, when making lots). If you are feeding lots of people depending on the prices of beef in your town, they can get expensive.

* If you try any of the Finger Food Friday recipes, I would love to know what you think. If you changed them up, I would love to know what you did. Email me or comment on this post.

Crochet, Crochet and more Crochet

2011-05-19T10:21:00.000-08:00

My hands have been extremely busy with crochet. I am very amazed at how much I have completed lately. I have managed to finish a vest, tank and "hair tube", as well as work on the flower blanket.

(Will post pictures of me wearing the items soon, so you get a better idea of how they look.)

The vest pattern is from Crochet Today, called the Stripped Shrug. I thought it would look pretty as one color (plus I didn't want to have to carry the double yarn throughout). I choose the cream and I added the fun fur in hopes to make it look a classy, yet fun.

The tank....hmmm, not sure if I like how this turned out. Found here, called the Happy Days Halter. I am not very happy with how it lays on my tummy. I do not have a flat, ripped out abs, and this halter/tank hugs that area...maybe if I block the halter, it will look better. (or do more sit-ups)

The Hair Tube. Love it!!! Using a larger hook, and crochet yarn, it is very flexible. I don't have dreads, but do have lots of curly hair to tame. This thing looks great, is comfortable and was easy to make.

The blanket, not finished, but at least still getting worked on. Maybe not as fast as I would like, but at least I am picking it up every couple days and making progress. I have even figured out the layout of all the flowers.

Peace Offering

2011-05-16T13:07:00.000-08:00

A peace offering for my laziness....Three Friday night reciepes.

#1: Grilled Cheese Biscuitwiches

Ingredients:
Refrigerated Buttermilk Biscuits
Butter or Margarine
American Cheese Slices
Thin slices cooked ham

Separate dough into 10 biscuits, press each biscuit into a 4 inch circle. In a large non-stick skillet, melt margarine on medium heat. Fry biscuits in margarine for 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Place cheese and ham slices on 5 of the biscuits; top with remaining biscuits. Cook 1 to 2 minutes until cheese is melted, turning once.

#2: Easy Meatballs
(You will notice I deviate from the directions in the picture.)

Ingredients:
Frozen cooked Italian meatballs.
Barbecue Sauce
Sweet and sour sauce

Cook meatballs according to package. In a medium sauce pan combine BBQ Sauce, and Sweet and Sour sauce, heat thoroughly on medium heat. Once meatballs are cooked in a large bowl combine sauce with meatballs.

I like to put the meatballs in a crockpot when ready to serve, so I can keep them warm on low heat. I also serve them with Hawaiian bread rolls.

#3: Aussie Sausage Rolls

Ingredients:
Ground Pork Sausage
Onion, finely chopped
Chives
Basil
Garlic Cloves
Paprika
Pepper
Refrigerated Crescent Rolls

In a bowl, combine cooked sausage, onion, chives, basil, garlic, 3/4 of paprika, salt and pepper. Roll out pastry in to about a 11" x 10 1/2" rectangle. Cut into 3 1/2" strips. Spread 1/2 cup of mixture down center of each strip. Fold pastry over and press edges together to seal. Cut each roll into six pieces. Place seam side down on a shallow baking pan. Sprinkle with remaining paprika. Bake at 350 for 20 to 25 minutes.

*I would suggest adding a cheese to the sausage mixture.

1970 Flash Back

2011-05-09T09:40:00.000-08:00

While visiting my mother in law a few weeks ago, she showed me this Crochet hot pad she was given years ago. She really liked it because it was double thick and slightly larger than the ones you buy at the store.

"Do you think you could figure out how this was made?".....and just like that the challenge was made.

I took her hot pad with me that day and after examining this thing, trying to determine where the starting chain would of been, and how it was constructed, I decided the best bet would be to search on the Internet for a pattern. I was successful!

The pattern is really easy. They take some time to work up because they are made up entirely of single crochet. The pattern called for a starting chain of 26, but I did 36 for the small one and 46 for the large one. I used a size H hook, and Peaches and Creme Cotton 4 ply Yarn. I love how they turned out. They are nice and thick. Which means to pull something out of a hot oven with them will work very well. The two blue ones in the pictures were given as a mother's day gift to my mother in law, but I will definitely be making some of these for myself.

If you would like to make some yourself, the pattern can be found here.

For the Ladies

2011-05-06T09:05:00.000-08:00

After posting yesterday, I really felt the need to do a small project that could be finished in one sitting. It helps me stay interested when I can accomplish something quickly. Immediate satisfaction is a wonderful thing.

With leftovers on the menu for dinner and a two mile walk still pacing through my veins, I had the energy and attention to make some crochet hair ties. I remember seeing this crochet item at craft fairs. Usually in bright childish colors adorned with loud plastic beads. Not really something an adult would use to tie their hair up with, or any kid older than 8.

For mine I chose earthy colors and no beads. Although some wooden beads sparsely crocheted in them might be a nice touch.

The two lacy hair ties were made from patterns I found on Raverly. The "Scrunchies" are my own design, pattern coming soon.

Works in Progress and An Obsession with Patterns

2011-05-05T13:07:00.000-08:00

It seems that of late, I start a new project, get halfway thru, then get bored, or can't decide how I want to finish it, and start another project. This is a very bad cycle to get stuck in. At the moment I have five unfinished projects and two projects that I have the yarn set aside for. I also found this beautiful ribbon yarn at the local fiber store that I am determined to find something to do with, so I can buy it. Oh and I can't forget another project idea to make my Easter Lillie's pots prettier.

Collecting more and more patterns, though is going quite well. It is almost an obsession. Everyday, two or three times, I check Raverly for new patterns. I have so many saved that it would take me months, maybe years, to finish them all.

So lots of patterns and ideas, but no finished projects. This must get turned around.

Finger Food Friday...er Saturday...

2011-04-30T12:34:00.001-08:00

Pepperoni Pizza Biscuits

Ingredients:

Biscuits

Dry Basil

Pepperoni Slices

Pizza Sauce

Green Bell Pepper

Mozzarella Cheese

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cut all biscuits in half. Press biscuits into muffin cups. Layer three slices of cooked pepperoni, one spoonful of pizza sauce, chopped green peppers, shredded mozzarella cheese in each muffin cup. Sprinkle basil over each. Bake for 16 to 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Again another really easy recipe to make. The only time consuming step is the pre-cooking of the peperoni's. I believe this is an important step though because it helps create less grease in the final product.

* If you try any of the Finger Food Friday recipes, I would love to know what you think. If you changed them up, I would love to know what you did. Email me or comment on this post.

Happy Easter

2011-04-25T10:54:00.000-08:00

Happy Belated Easter!

Just because you don't have kids, doesn't mean you can't dye some hard boiled eggs. This Saturday, I bought a dollar something egg dying kit at Walmart and boiled some eggs. Didn't want to do anything too fancy, so I just wrapped some rubber bands around the eggs and dunked the whole egg in the dye bath. I let the eggs sit in the dye for about 30 minutes to get the darkest color I could.

When all the eggs were out drying, I started the clean up and became curious about the left over dye....what else could I use this for?? I immediately thought of the many white tank tops I have and just had to try it. the colors came out really well, although I have not washed it in the washing machine. If after washing all the dye comes out I will not be too upset, that is actually what I am expecting. It was just fun to do.

Finger Food Friday

2011-04-22T20:06:00.001-08:00

As promised another recipe from the Poker Night Recipe Book.

Sloppy Joe Biscuits

I give these 5 stars!!!! Using only 4 ingredients, they are quick to put together. (and very yummy)

Ingredients:
Ground Beef
Sloppy Joe Sauce
Biscuits
Shredded Cheddar Cheese

Directions:
Brown Ground Beef, drain grease. Add Sloppy Joe sauce. Cut all biscuits in half, flatten and press into muffin pan. The silicone muffin pans work the best to prevent sticking. Spoon beef mixture on top of each biscuit and top with a pinch of cheese. The amount is up to you.

Bake at 375 for about 15 minutes or until biscuit is a nice golden brown. Serve warm.

* If you try any of the Finger Food Friday recipes, I would love to know what you think. If you changed them up, I would love to know what you did. Email me or comment on this post.

Another Neglected Project

2011-04-21T10:13:00.001-08:00

How sad projects must get, after so much attention and excitement for them, to only get half done and set aside.

Years ago, I started making these flowers...I made a ton of them. When it came to connecting them to make a blanket I got stumped as to how I should do it. At first I thought I could just whip stitch them all together. That was taking forever and did not look as well as I would of liked. So all the little flowers got shoved into an old cheese ball container and set aside (for 3 to 4 years). Till now!

After much research in how to connect afghan blocks, I think the blanket can finally get worked on and finished. I detached all the flowers I connected so long ago and started crocheting a border that will create a Pentagon shape. The border will help give a straight edge in order to connect all the shapes. This is my first Afghan block blanket...and without a pattern, I am either brave or stupid.

If I can work all the kinks out, I will try to write out a pattern.

Bunnies!

2011-04-18T10:55:00.002-08:00

Above are hats I made in one night for my two nieces, one is four months and the other 2 years. Between all the chores I was able to tackle, shooting off fireworks for a 50th birthday and enjoying the 55 to 60 degree weather this weekend I can't believe I was able to finish two of the most adorable hats for my nieces. I don't have kids of my own so I find great joy in creating things for these two girls. They don't live near me, so planning is important, especially when it is something for a holiday. (No fun to wear a bunny hat after the holiday)

I used a pattern I found on Raverly, an online community of crocheters and knitters. (you have to be a member to view...sorry) The pattern was really easy to follow. Each hat only took about one and a half hours to complete and only used a small amount of yarn.

I had wanted to make a couple other things to send, but time ran out and as it is I am sending it Fed Ex to be certain that it gets to them by Easter. I can't wait to see the pictures.

* Bear is my prop, not part of the package.

It's Still Friday

2011-04-15T23:17:00.000-08:00

This post has been on my mind all day. Unfortunately, it is tax season and as you know I work for tax accountants. As promised though it is still Friday and the first page of my recipe book.......

Bacon Quesadillas

This is always a hit. I would definitely rate this one a 10! The guys love these when I make them and my husband request this one a lot. I found the recipe here. They take a little time to make because you can only make one at a time, but it is well worth it. With only a few ingredients, they are simple to put together.

...and how about another recipe.

Philly Cheese Bites

Ingredients:

Deli Style Roast Beef

Onion

Spices

Swiss Cheese Slices

Biscuits

Directions:

Chop Roast Beef, cook with onion and spices. Cut all biscuits in half and press flat. Layer, 1/4 piece of cheese...Roast Beef...1/4 piece of cheese. Fold over, seal edges. Bake at 375 for 13 to 16 minutes.

Another "10" recipe. Easy to make, but as with the Bacon Quesadillas, when you are making lots of them it takes some time (only so many you can fit in the oven at one time).

If you have any questions about these recipes, feel free to email me.

(I am not getting paid to promote any website or product mentioned in this post.)

Keeping Them Fed

2011-04-11T14:03:00.001-08:00

Every Friday night for the last five years my husband and his buddies get together and play cards...and every Friday night for the last five years I slave away in the kitchen and make them finger food. For the longest time the recipes for Friday night were disorganized and shoved into a pile. The plan: To make a recipe book with all the recipes, that will be a constant work in progress.

So far I have around 20 recipes added to the book and this weekend I put together the cover.

The journal is handmade by me. It has a duct tape cover and drawing paper for the pages. The cover was designed using stamps, old playing cards, and stickers. To keep things from staying on the cover, I glued everything together and sealed them using a laminating plastic. Using E6000 Glue, I adhered the plastic to the cover with a few dots, then stitched around the edges to keep it from peeling up later. This book will get a lot of use and handling, so I want things to stay put.

Visit this blog on Fridays, where you will find the recipe pages inside the book. Included will be the recipe artwork, the recipe and the guys reviews.

Easter so early?

2011-04-03T18:03:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it? An Easter project weeks before Easter? I just hope this isn't the only Easter project that gets done. What do you think, will my 2 year old niece be happy to receive this?

Everything Deserves a Cozy

2011-03-30T11:43:00.001-08:00

I just recently purchased a 10 1/2" laptop. It will not replace my "work horse" laptop, but for Internet surfing, blogging, travel, etc., it will work great. Also if my husband is on the computer, then I can also play on a computer.

Since it is a smaller laptop, I did not feel the need to buy a bag for it. Instead with my knitting needles and some yarn from my stash, my new mini laptop is hugged by a cozy...because everything deserves a cozy.

Here is the pattern:

"10 1/2" Laptop Hug"

Materials:

1 Skein Caron Simply Soft Country Blue

1 Skein Caron Simply Soft Dark Country Blue

1 Skein Lion Brand Homespun Meadow

1 Skein Peaches and Creme Black

Size 13 Straight Knitting Needles

6 Stitch Markers

Yarn Needle

Cable Needle

N-9.00mm Crochet Hook

Directions:

Holding all four yarns together cast on 22 stitches. (You will knit will all four yarns together for the entire piece.)

Row 1: Knit 3, add stitch marker. Knit 2, add stitch marker. Knit 3, add stitch marker. Knit 6, add stitch marker. Knit 3, add stitch marker. Knit 2, add stitch marker. Knit 3.

Row 2: (cable row) Knit 8. Transfer 3 stitches to the cable needle and bring to front. Knit the next three stitches. Knit the three stitches on the cable needle. Knit 8.

Row 3: Knit 3. Purl 2. Knit 3. Purl 6. Knit 3. Purl 2. Knit 3.

Row 4: Knit across.

Row 5: Repeat row 3.

Repeat row 2 to row 5, until it measures the length of the laptop times 2. (mine is about 23 inches)

Bind off.

Finishing:
Fold in half with the purl side facing out. Sew together long sides, leaving short side open. Turn Cable side out.

Loop for button...With crochet hook, leaving a 8" tail make a slip stitch and chain 14 bind off, leaving another 8" tail.. Tie the tails together to form a circle. Attach to backside, in the middle of the upper edge, by pulling tails thru from the front to the inside 2 stitches apart tie together. Sew button on the other side of cozy. Ta Da your done.

If you have any questions or notice any problems with this pattern, please let me know.

I Haven't Disappeared

2011-03-28T09:58:00.000-08:00

I am not disappearing again! If you have been reading my blog for a while, you know it is tax season and that means I am one busy girl. As soon as I get one thing scanned into the system, two more walk in the door. Then there are extensions, and tax payments to get out the door...paying company bills, and entering the daily accounting services...and, and, and. I welcome the crazy busy of the season though, as the work days move fast.

This does not mean I have been a slacker at home. Work on a Friday Night Poker Recipe book is well on it's way. Also a cozy (and pattern) for my new mini laptop is about halfway done. Would you say I am back to normal...no...but was I ever normal in the first place?

Oops I Did It Again

2011-03-18T11:49:00.000-08:00

"I am going to finally finish a holiday project"..."Because I mentioned it on my blog I will have to finish something."...."I will not procrastinate!" Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha!

I searched for days for the perfect Shamrock to make. I had the projects all laid out. A simple Shamrock head band. The Shamrock was going to be about 3" square. Three crochet chain cords would be attached to the back in order to tie the head band on. I also wanted to make a three Shamrock necklace. Each Shamrock would be a different size and ordered from biggest to smallest. The biggest would sit at the center of the necklace and the other two would travel up one side.

Did I even touch the yarn or a crochet hook to make these very simple projects...no. At about 11 o'clock the night before St. Patrick's Day, I was laying on my couch watching TV, when I looked at the clock and grumbled to myself.

I have done it again. I have made nothing.

Get Pinched

2011-03-14T12:08:00.000-08:00

St. Patrick's Day, March 17th...the day where everyone decides they need to drink green beer and wear green so they don't get pinched. It sounds so strange to type that out. We have certainly lost the meaning of this holiday. How many people know what St. Patrick's day is about and why we do this? Not many I would suppose, I don't or didn't. You can read about Saint Patrick's Day here.

I always plan on making something for the holidays to wear or display, but never plan ahead enough. As of right now I have 2 1/2 days to make something, and on the hunt searching the Internet for a crochet pattern I like. So far the Lion Brand Shamrock Pattern, is the only one I like.

What will this Shamrock turn into?? Maybe a simple pin, or necklace....maybe earrings, a barrette? Hmmm, maybe that is why I never seem to finish anything before the holiday...I can never decide what to make.

The Small Things

2011-03-05T13:21:00.000-09:00

Quick small projects help change things up when you start losing interest in larger time intensive projects. The triangle scarf (blogged here and here), is still in the making and will be for quite some time. It still gets worked on, but just a little at a time. In between the work being done on the triangle scarf small quick things are getting done.

I receive a bracelet with pink and blue beads with the word peace. I found the bracelet (please forgive me) ugly. It was just not me. The message and why I received it means a lot to me though, so I wanted to make something that I would wear. Using a simple macrame square knot and hemp cord I created a new bracelet. The other bracelet below was left over t-shirt yarn. I braided a long cord attached a simple closure and viola, another new bracelet.

After dropping my last powder on the bathroom floor and having all of the remaining powder break and scatter on the floor, I had to buy a new one. Make up is becoming so expensive these days it is unbelievable I still wear it. $8 or more for most things. I have found a 5 dollar powder that works well, but it doesn't come with a puff to put it on. Instead I just crochet a small circle applicator out of cotton yarn. It works well, is stylish and fits right into the powder container.

A year or so ago, I bought this skein of yarn that was really expensive, but really beautiful. I made a hat with it and have been holding on to a small ball of left over yarn since then. With the price I paid for it I just can't seem to let it go. Of course this leads to a small project, an i-cord necklace.

Loving the small projects that I can produce right away and feel like I have accomplished something.

Decorate Yourself

2011-02-28T12:49:00.000-09:00

"Without a care in the world,
she danced with Feathers in her hair."

Alright, I may have worries and stresses, but I will dance around with these feathers in my hair. While watching American Idol, I keep noticing Steven Tyler's feathers in his hair. I love them...and Steven Tyler. Each time I see them it brings me back to the 1980's when I was a little girl and wearing the alligator clips with feathers in my hair. So of course, this means Sunday I went on a venture to find alligator clips, leather cord, beads and feathers.

Everything was fairly easy to find, except for the feathers. With it being Sunday, all of the locally owned stores were closed, so I was limited as to where I could go. For the feathers I had to buy a cat toy that had feathers and cut them off. With my first ones done, I now am on the hunt for more feathers and different beads.

What do you think? Not bad for my first attempt?

Dealing with Boredom

2011-02-23T10:34:00.000-09:00

This last Monday I underwent a minor surgery. Unfortunately during the surgery there was a complication and I had to have exploratory surgery as well. All this means that I am home for the week to recover. Some people may find a week off of work to be delightful, but I have had too many days off in the last month and a half that I am tired of it. Plus I am not able to do a lot of things and pretty much stuck on the couch. Should I also mention that daytime television stinks!

Good thing my hobby is crafts! My latest creation a granny square bag.

The bag is not my idea. I found the idea on Raverly, an online community of knitters, crocheters and spinners. With a general idea of how to construct the purse, I did the rest of the design as I went. It was a really easy bag to make. All I did was create three granny squares and seam them together. The strap was made by braiding 18 strands of t-shirt yarn and knotting the ends. Easy. The entire bag was created in about 3 hours. I am still trying to decide if I want to sew in a liner to prevent smaller objects from falling out, but until then the bag works great.

Harvest

2011-02-19T18:07:00.000-09:00

Beautiful, beautiful herbs! For Christmas I received an AeroGarden and two different seed packets, an herb assortment and tomatoes. I decided to start the herbs first, as I figured they would be easier to maintain than the tomatoes...and boy was I right!!!! With very little work, I have managed to grow some large, beautiful, healthy plants. Today I decided to harvest the crop since there is no way I could use them as quickly as they are growing. I now have 7 plates drying on my counter with three different Basil's, Oregano, Thyme, Mint and Dill.

I am in no way getting paid for promoting the AeroGarden, but I feel compelled to give my opinion on this product, so here it is. If you are like me and live in a place where it is hard to grow outdoors, this is a great product (so far, we will have to see how well the tomatoes grow). It is very easy to maintain. It tells you when to add water and nutrients. The lights are on an automatic timer, as well as the hydroponics. It doesn't take up too much space on your counter and doesn't make a difference on your electric bill. It is just wonderful!!

Below is my AeroGarden after the "harvest". I will be interested to see how long it takes for the plants to grow as full as they were.

Doubled

2011-02-17T11:01:00.000-09:00

Being Focused.

The triangle scarf has doubled in size. Which doesn't mean that it is closed to finished by any means, but it is starting to take shape. I am finding quiet in the focus it takes to knit. More important, I am finding joy in creating it, which is one of the biggest reasons why I craft (besides not being able to just sit still).

Challenges this project is giving me? The edges are rolling up, and I have tried what all the books say to prevent this problem. I am hoping that once I block the project when I am finished, that it will solve this problem...but I am not very optimistic.

What is going well? The design. The whole design is just "knit on the fly". No pattern. This is giving me freedom to just knit and not have to worry about whether I am following something correctly.

Forever

2011-02-11T16:13:00.000-09:00

What was I thinking?? While browsing the local fiber store, a while ago, the owner was opening up boxes of new inventory. I couldn't resist, I love watching boxes being open. A new sock yarn emerged, Online SuperSocke self patterning yarn. With such beautiful colors, nice texture and durability, I immediately started picking a skein I liked. The price tag...about $20...ouch! Did that matter at the time though, not really.

This skein of yarn sat, unattended for months. I thought about making a pair of socks with it, but a $20 pair of socks?? Plus, I haven't knitted socks before and find them a little intimidating. So fingerless gloves came to mind next, but I couldn't find a pattern that called for the weight of this yarn. My brilliant idea...a triangle scarf and I would make it as big as the skein allowed. Simple and easy.

What was I thinking?? Although I am loving the colors and the way it is looking so far, this project is going to take me forever. It only keeps my attention for a short time (knitting is like that for me), the needles I have to use to make the self patterning yarn do its job are so small which means the rows are very short and well I am just not that fast of a knitter. To say this is a challenge for me is an understatement. My commitment to this project is 100% though and if it takes me years to get this done, oh well, all I have is time right?

Picture: Start of the Triangle Scarf. Would you believe I have been working on this, on and off, for a couple months?

Moving Forward

2011-02-09T09:59:00.000-09:00

2011...a year that was supposed to hold great new beginnings has not started off as hoped. I do not wish to go into such personal details as this is supposed to be a crafting blog. But I am well and intent to move forward with a positive and hopeful attitude.

As for crafting...hmmm, well....ah....nothing, so far. Stay tuned though as keeping my hands and mind busy with crochet, knitting and sewing may be the way to keep me sane.

The Weekend

2010-11-09T15:07:00.000-09:00

This weekend is the big bazaar at the local high school....the one I was going to be prepared for this year. Yeah right! I may have about 6 books, 3 necklaces and a dozen hair clip bows. Why is it that something always comes up when I am trying to achieve this goal. I really want to make crafting a small source of income for myself, but somehow it always gets pushed to the waste side because life happens.

Luckily, the friend I shared a booth with last year doesn't mind if she has the booth all to herself this year, but has offered if I have a few things to put in, I am welcome to. Unfortunately, these days I go to bed at around 9pm. Just enough time to get home, relax for a few, make dinner, eat dinner, clean up after dinner, play with my dog Kane, relax for a little while and then to bed...no time for crafting.

Maybe someone is trying to tell me to give up?

Hello! Hello!

2010-11-03T08:40:00.000-08:00

Where o where have I been? Sleeping and working. That seems to be life these days. I have been so exhausted the past month that I haven't done a whole lot of anything. It is really frustrating, since I am the type of person that always has my hands busy. Even when lounging on the couch, I will have a crochet hook in my hand.

Big changes are coming in my life. Although I am keeping it a secret for now, I assure you everything is good, and this change is wonderful.

Jelly

2010-10-19T11:48:00.000-08:00

The Salmonberries were not as abundant this year, as they have been. It seems that the effects of the non-existent summer, two years ago, when we barely reached 50 degrees and hardly saw the sun, is still showing. I miss seeing berries the size of walnuts, over taking the bushes. At least there were some berries, compared to the non-existent summer, where there were no berries, no flowers, and no sun.

Yesterday I took the day off, a much needed 3 day weekend. (The last tax deadline, October 15th, has past and I have survived...barely) Sunday I pulled out my three small bags of berries to de-thaw. I was able to get about 2 gallons of berries, a small amount for me.

Thru smashing and adding a small amount of water I was able to squeeze enough juice for two batches. Not a lot but at least some.

One Month To Go

2010-10-05T09:07:00.000-08:00

With one month till the holiday bazaars begin, I am furiously working on increasing my inventory. I am bound and determined that this year will be better. I will be more prepared with a better focus. Not sure if I have enough time to pull it off but I am going to give it my best effort. My only worry right now is having enough variety as well as product.

Here is my newest item:
The Mushroom Stash Necklace
Will fit a lighter or lipstick, a roll of cash or whatever you wish.

And here are some new earrings.....

Tell me what you think. I welcome all and any comments!!

Come on now I know you want to order some..wink wink.

Beach Treasures

2010-10-04T12:10:00.001-08:00

I received a phone call mid afternoon yesterday asking if I would like to go beach combing. I LOVE BEACH COMBING! So of course I went. I packed the necessities, my camera and a Ziploc bag, and traveled to a beach I haven't explored before not knowing what I would find.

After about a 15 minute walk, we approached the beach. I was at first amazed with the view (I never get tired of pretty landscapes), then I looked down....

Look closely at the beach, (click on the picture to enlarge) yes that is beach glass! And lots of it. Most were fairly small pieces, but I was able to find some big pieces. There were lots of Amber, Clear and Green. I also found some blue, yellow, a small red and some other neat things out there.

Here is all my loot...

I'd say it was a good day at the beach!

End of Road 1000 Feet

2010-09-27T12:36:00.000-08:00

The island is receiving some beautiful fall days and I am trying to take advantage of each and every one of them. Winter will be here soon and with that comes lots of rain, some snow, cold days and little daylight. I always giggle on these nice days because it seems like everyone ventures outside to enjoy them. We all get so couped up staying out of the bad weather that any amount of good weather brings out the masses.

My red nose pitt bull, Kane, and I drove all the way out the road, literally to the end of the road. We were lucky to find only a few people out there and no other dogs. (Kane is not too friendly towards other dogs) We spent our time walking the beach, playing Frisbee, collecting fossils and just relaxing.

Crafting:

In crafting news, I am working on a couple skirt designs. I have become obsessed with the show Project Runway and it has really sparked some great ideas for me. Even as a kid I wanted to be a fashion designer and if that dream never comes true, I can at least design some really great clothes for myself, right?

Long Weekends

2010-09-20T15:49:00.000-08:00

With one deadline behind me and another one steering closer, I decided to take last Friday off from work. With a "To Do" list the size of the Titanic I was surprisingly feeling really energetic about the day. Unfortunately, I was not as productive as I wanted to be...but I did finished this....

This lovely rug was crocheted using 7 different sheets and a size Q hook.

You'll Have to Excuse Me

2010-09-08T08:36:00.000-08:00

It is that time...AGAIN! Taxes are due. If you or your accountant, filed an extension for 2009 taxes, the time is upon you. Corporate Return's deadline is September 15th and Personal Return's are October 15th. Get them done!

Please forgive my absence, I will have an exciting new post after September15th.

Adventures in Crochet

2010-08-24T15:16:00.000-08:00

The hooks are hot, my hands are sore and some great things are starting to come together. I started a rag rug a long time ago and put it down because I wasn't getting the increases correct in the corners. The rug just would not lay flat. While looking around in the craft room for a project to work on, I came across this so called half complete wavy rug and the strips of fabric already cut for more torture of fighting this thing and thought...."I really should just crochet the rug." So I put the wavy thing aside, grabbed the strips and the largest crochet hook I have and went to work.

I am very happy with the difference between the crochet and "rag rug" knots. The crochet rug is soft and airy. I am only about a third finished with the rug, if that. I would like it to be large enough to fill the floor to the craft room. I would also like there to be at least 4 or 5 more colors.

Craft Fair Item.

Hair accessories never go out of style, right? Below is the first, of many, crochet head bands. It is crocheted with cotton yarn so it is soft and won't be too hot. It has a crochet button to join the ends at the back of the neck, making it easy to put on. A great way to get your hair out of your face.

Something New.

A good friend gave me a crochet book a while back with all sorts of different stitches, motifs and techniques. I am learning everything from Irish Lace to Broomstick Lace to three dimensional crochet and everything in between. One thing that caught my eye was a "woven" flat pattern. Used mainly for place mats and table runners, for its flat, even surface. I can see many possibilities with this...a skirt maybe, or scarf, or maybe a bag....hmmm...

The Review

2010-08-17T08:57:00.000-08:00

The Gnome House and Gnome Family made it to their new home with my niece last week. And does she like them??? SHE LOVES THEM!! I am happy to report that she is having lots of fun playing with them. The other night, on her way to bed she grabbed them suddenly and held on tight, so my sister would let her take them with her. How sweet is that?

Up on top of my to do list....make more Gnome Families!

Afraid? Me?

2010-08-09T10:56:00.000-08:00

"I think you are afraid to finish anything", my husband tells me regarding all of my unfinished projects.
"No I am not!"

Now I think he may be right. The Gnome house for my niece was 95% done a week and a half ago. I just needed to make one more little kid, and give the first kid arms. That is only an hour (or two) worth's of work. An hour, and it took me a week and a half. I did finish it and mailed it off last Saturday.

I finally started taking in some of my pants, which are all to big now. Total weight lost so far? 23 pounds. (The last 10 is hanging on.) BUT I just couldn't finish all of them. It is really easy and I have all of them marked, which is the time consuming part of the job. So why did I leave pants undone?

The vest/shirt I picked back up, sitting on the bottom shelf of the coffee table. Little progress has been made. I would love to make an inventory of all my unfinished projects, maybe seeing them lined out on paper would give me incentive to either finish them or scrap them.

So, am I afraid to finish things? Or is my attention span really that short?

Can I live in there?

2010-07-30T10:28:00.002-08:00

What little girl would not want her very own Gnome family and house?

As soon as I saw these little Gnome people I knew I had to make my niece her own little family to play with. This has been a really fun project and unlike anything I have knitted or crocheted before. The Gnome people I used a pattern I found online and the home...well I just winged it.

Don't you just want to curl up in there? Maybe get a bean bag...and a bottle of wine...peanut butter and crackers.........

Kids these days...no respect!

2010-07-19T15:43:00.000-08:00

I get up Saturday morning, make coffee and turn on the TV. My husband opens the front window curtains and....we were egged. Just one, but you would be amazed at the amount of goo an egg produces when splattered on your window. The husband was in quite the fit over this, although I was the one who cleaned up the mess.

Why did they decide to throw an egg at my house? Well, my poor kitty was sitting in the window, taking in the night. It was about 2 or 3 in the morning. Some kids walking by see him sitting there and aim their egg at his poor little head! This scares the geebies out of him, and wakes the husband sleeping on the couch. (The couch is right next to the window, which was open.) He assumes the cat just had a normal cat freak out moment and falls back asleep.

I understand kids don't have any respect for other's property, but a poor little kitty, minding his own business...uncalled for!

I Can Count

2010-07-16T11:37:00.001-08:00

When working on knitting projects, I always have a hard time keeping count of my rows. Someone will start talking to me, and my multi-tasking goes to the waste side...I will almost always forget my count. I am sure more experienced knitters have no problem looking at their work and are able to just count the rows. Not me.

I now present to you....the counting stick...(or very simple Abacus)

Every fifth bead is the same, so I can count in fives. After each row, I slide one bead from one side to the next. Simple, right? The charm is to mark my place, when I need to put the project down.

Here is how I made it:

Materials:

Metal Hanger

Wire Cutters

Pliers

Beads

Hot Glue Gun/Glue Sticks

Yarn

Directions:

The straight bottom of the hanger is your "stick". Using the wire cutters cut where indicated in the picture below.

"String" beads on the wire. You can make a pattern, or make it random like I did. I would suggest every 5th bead using the same beads to make it easy to keep your count. Also, leave enough room to be able to slide the beads over from one side to the next, and have the definition to see the division between the two.

Using the pliers, bend the ends into a circle. The main purpose is to create a stopper at each end so the beads don't fall off. At this point you could call it done. I decided that the ends needed a little more decoration so I crocheted around the wire, and added a couple beads. I also used hot glue to adhere the sharp end of the wire to where it meets to form the circle.

I Think I Can...I Think I Can

2010-07-14T15:42:00.000-08:00

Remember this post... "Now What" ...I picked it up again! I found the yarn by looking around online and now have enough yarn to finish the project. The shirt/vest I am making is completely an "on the fly" design. I am just making it up as I go along and so far it is looking great. I am noticing that with my weight loss it may be a little big, but plan to adjust when it is complete. Maybe with a little sewing I can take it in a little...but I will just have to wait and see when the piece is complete.

How sweet it will be to finish something!

Pyro-maniacs!

2010-07-07T11:39:00.001-08:00

Happy Fourth of July! (a little late) While everyone else was wishing their family and friends a happy 4th of July, in all their Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter accounts, I was busy setting up a firework show for the city. You would not believe all that it takes to put on a big firework show. It is a ton of work, but oh so worth it...

The day started off with scattered showers, just as you were getting use to the patch of blue sky above you a grey cloud would cover it up, laugh at you and start raining. Up until two o'clock, I seriously did not think that we were going to have good enough weather to shoot the fireworks off. Water and electrical equipment are not good together. To my surprise, the weather broke and we had good clear skies through the show.

Camping or Crafting?

2010-06-29T10:36:00.000-08:00

Well that is a hard question!?!

OK, not really...

Losing and Being Lazy

2010-06-22T09:13:00.000-08:00

In the past 3 weeks, there has been very little exercising. In order to reach my goal, I need to make sure to stick to my routine...watch my calorie intake and exercise! Watching my calories is surprisingly easy. I watch them on my plate and then I watch them get shoved into my mouth. Kidding aside, I have done pretty well with the calories, slipping up just a little. I am ok with slipping up though. I don't believe in denying yourself of stuff you crave, because when you deny you binge. It's all in moderation and being aware of what you are eating.

Where am I at towards my goal? I am down a total of 16 pounds, in two months, and still 10 pounds to reach my first goal. The last month has been slow and not very motivational, but at least I seem to still be losing and not gaining.

Back to the treadmill....