Crochet Creations

Antique shopping

2008-08-30T11:46:00.008-04:00

I have to say...before this summer, I have never been antique shopping. I have seen countless antique stores and never really given two thoughts about it. About a month or so ago...A friend and I went antique shopping. It was like a candy store! Wow, I saw so many things that I wanted....well, i guess that really would not take much since I like just about everything. Especially if it is to clutter my home even more than it is....perfect! I saw some really fascinating things! I found an old spinning wheel...it would have been just perfect in my new craft room for decoration...but I declined. I saw lots of old photographs that were interesting. I found some one's little black book even! But, what caught my eye...and my pocketbook, was some old crocheted doilies. That is something that I have not even attempted to make yet. I think the works of old doilies are beautifully handcrafted...but I just can't imagine attempting yet. Look at some of the things I picked up! A lot of the pieces were stained...so I soaked them overnight in some oxyclean and then blocked and pinned them to dry flat.

Then, I found a beautiful piece that was probably used for a hot plate.....

I am also in the process of redoing my kitchen over in roosters! And I found these....

And the best part...I got to haggle for all my prices!!! What fun! Oh yeah, I also bought a couple of old crochet hooks that I think are made out of bone or ivory. Pictures to come soon!

Welcome to the world, Halia!

2008-08-20T11:16:00.004-04:00

Well, last week I blogged a wee tribute to our fallen cousin Alexa. This week, we welcome her new little sister Halia to the world. I was planning to give to her the short and sweet sweater to her...but when I saw her room decorated in pinks and chocolate browns and off whites...I knew I had to make yet another Tiramisu!

I decided to mix this one up a bit and add a polka dotted ribbon woven through the edge. I like how it turned out...but was not happy that some of the dots rubbed off as I was desperately trying to weave the ribbon through the double crochets.

And I am working on another....you guessed it, another Tiramisu for our new neighborhood baby to be born next week. This is my first attempt at making a Tiramisu for a male. I decided to use blue for the interior, yellow for the shelled edging and weave into the double crochets white ribbon. I think that would make it "masculine" enough...I hope. We will see soon. Thanks for stopping by!

In loving memory of Alexa

2008-08-03T07:59:00.002-04:00

On Saturday, July 26th, we lost our cousin Alexa tragically in a car accident. She was only 19 years old. Her mom was about to give birth and Alexa came home from Martha's Vineyard to help her mom out. Alexa's mom actually gave birth after a scheduled c-section was postponed to this past Friday. Halia (Hawaiian) was born on August 1, 2008. Her name means in remembrance of a loved one. I can't imagine loosing a daughter, and with in that same week, giving birth to another daughter. Our prayers with the family. Please check out a local write up here.

Welcome to the world, Lucia!

2008-07-12T22:42:00.004-04:00

This past Thursday morning, my neighbors gave birth to a baby girl Lucia weighing in at 7 pounds even and 19 1/2 inches long! They call her Lucy!

They arrived home from the hospital today and I was lucky enough to meet her. I also finished the Tiramisu Baby Blanket. Totally forgot to take pictures....because I was so eager to give it to them. Maybe I will get lucky and be able to take pictures of Lucy on the blanket! Well...Lucy's mom LOVED it! She says that she is totally into handmade things and that she is so happy and thankful that I made it for her! She placed it in the baby's crib right away. Yeah, that makes me smile!

So, Welcome to the world and the "hood" Lucia!

10 question...10 answers...

2008-07-01T21:05:00.003-04:00

What is your first name? Regina
What is your favorite yarn? Bamboo
What was the first thing you made with yarn? Blanket for my son
What is your favorite color? Purple
Which crochet or knitting designer do you have a crush on? Robyn Chachula
Favorite handmade gift you have received? Picture frame with a picture of my kids!
Dream project? Knit sweaters
Favorite notion? Pretty stitch markers
What will you crochet/ knit next? Baby items
What do you love most about yarn? The entire fiber experience!!!
One word to describe your craft. Crochet!
Main inspiration to craft. Ravelry

Stress, stress and more stress

2008-06-22T16:10:00.005-04:00

I have not forgotten about all of you! Life has gotten crazy and has decided to take me a long with it. Last Friday I got in a car accident. Everyone is o.k....car is a little bruised and nerves were a little shaken up. Wouldn't ya know it, I hit a woman who's daughter is in my son's first grade class. Hmmmm, talk about 6 degrees of seperation!

Then that foloowing Monday, I found out my Dad went into the hospital with fluid in his lungs. They concluded he was in congested heart failure and needed added oxygen. He is thankfully home, but need to walk around with oxygen. Pretty much a life style change for sure.

But...I have crocheted a few things in the last couple of weeks! First off, my nephew Joey was born on June 2!!!! This is what I made him!

It was a fun and easy stitch...a an extended single stitch with a G hook. It was originally intended for a bolero for me...but as I was half way through with it...I decided that it would make a fabulous baby blanket. I did single crochet around the border...and then added some ruffles. My SIL really liked it...and what was the best is...he was using it the other day! Glad this week is over!

Ten Years ago...

2008-06-08T16:41:00.005-04:00

Friday was my ten year wedding anniversary! That is a decade! Some days it seems like an eternity ago, and other times it feels like just yesterday. We had a nice dinner out and caught a movie...but when I got home from a manicure...this is what was waiting for me on my dining room table...

This is our framed wedding invitation with the original bouquet of my flowers. He matched up the flowers from my bouquet and had them in 13 vases. All except lilacs that are out of season. I had them in my bouquet, but they were artificial. After our wedding ceremony, and we were alone in the limo on our way to our reception, he said that the lilacs in the bouquet were the most beautiful he has ever seen. HA...fake!

Thanks for a wonderful ten years, honey...and here is to another glorious ten more! I love you!

Boteh complete

2008-05-25T12:57:00.006-04:00

....and preschool is over for ever. I asked my son if he is gonna miss everyone and said "NO" pointing to his head, "i have got everyone up here." Too cute, I don't think the poor boy realizes that he really will not see his preschool friends and teachers again. He probably feels like it is another weekend, and he will see his friends on Monday. Just not the case. On to his teacher's gift....she absolutely loved the Boteh scarf. She could not believed that I made it with my two hands. I found this great hat box to put the scarf into. It was not made from cardboard either, this nice hard plastic. I figured it would be different than a gift bag....boring!

And I wrapped it all pretty with some pastel colored tissue paper...

I ended up using Plymouth Sockatta sock yarn that I had in my stash. I would have preferred a solid color not a color stranded yarn....but since I had it in my stash...I am not complaining. Besides...I think it came out stunning...and I also thought it was cool how the repeated motifs are almost different colors automatically. Could not have planned that even if I tried!

Here is some close ups on the stitches...

I think it does have some nice drape for a scarf...

The Gerber daisies I got from a surprise party and the azaleas are from my yard. Hope you enjoy the PINK SPRING THEME.....

Borders Books Knit and crochet night

2008-05-18T18:51:00.006-04:00

For about a month now, I have helped form a crochet and knitting group through Ravelry to meet at our local Borders book shop. It is so much fun. It is nice to finally have some fiber friends in real life. It started out with two of us, then four and in the last two weeks there was a total 10 of us. Our little group has certainly grew in such a little time. We meet once a week on Thursday nights...and it is a great way to almost kick of the weekend. I find myself really looking forward to Thursday nights...a time for some good crochet time, coffee time and surrounded by books and fiber friends. How fun!

I am also excited because I found a new yarn store. Well, the yarn store is not knew...but the location is. It is called The Creative Stitch. There new location is GREAT. It seems much more roomier, the lighting is 100% better, and I like the set up. Of course when visited, I had to buy something. Sometimes I feel I need to purchase something when I enter a yarn store. I dunno know why I feel this way, but I do. So...I bought three skeins of Plymouth Encore DK weight in a grey color. I also bought some Noro sock yarn in a rainbow colorway for a shawl.

I also signed up for a crochet class to make a baby kimono sweater at my LYS. It is two 3 hour sessions. One class was last weekend, and the other class is at the end of the month. There was four of us in this class, and I was the only "crocheter", the other ladies were knitters learning how to crochet. And boy, I learned a lot about gauge...how it is really important to make a gauge swatch and how to correctly measure a swatch. Things I knew...but was actually shown how to do it. I didn't realize, but even if you are off just 1 or 2 stitches, it can really effect the entire size of the finished project. The suggested yarn for this project is Ella Rae baby cotton. I picked a dusty pink color...I think it is so pretty.

The teacher Kim was super. She was patient and explained the directions clearly. We have three weeks to complete the back of the sweater and the two front pieces. In the next class we will learn how to shape the arms, sew a button on and seam it up. I am looking forward to learning these finishing techniques. Eagerly awaiting the next class!

Update...Boteh scarf is coming along...only 5 more motifs and edging and I am done. It needs to be finished and blocked by Friday.

Happy Mother's Day!

2008-05-11T13:48:00.006-04:00

For all the wonderful mothers out there...hope you are enjoying your day!

Have been busy on the crochet front lately...even though I am having trouble keeping up on he blog about my projects. Sorry about that....Does it count that I am constantly thinking about posting??? Anyhoo...without further a do...what have I been working on?

I am working on a Boteh scarf from Spring 2007 Interweave Knits in this sock yarn intended for a sock. It is Reggia sock yarn. Now that I am half way through with the scarf, I think I would be happier if I made it in a solid color. But, what can I do...I am stash diving!

Then I decided to make another Child's short and sweet cardigan with the recommended yarn...Lion Brand Baby Soft in Pistachio for my neighbors 18 month old girl. It is coming a long great so far. Pictured below is the completed backside, and I am finishing up the two front panels. All I have to finish is the sleeves and seams. I am also thinking about modifying the sleeves by crocheting them in the round...but we will see, I am not at that point yet.

I am still working on my second Tiramisu blanket and some baby things. I have a baby boy nephew being born in less than a month, and I just had a second cousin baby girl born. I better start finishing up these baby things now!

Short and Sweet Cardigan

2008-04-22T19:29:00.009-04:00

I just finished my first child wearable! I am very proud of this piece. I got the pattern on the Lion Brand Website, click here. The directions rated this project easy....but I don't think I agree 100%. Sure, the stitch pattern is super easy...but the seaming took some time. Especially since I did not even know how. And I have never sewed a button on anything. So it was a learning experience for sure.

I was lucky enough to be shown how to seam from a sweet lady from my new knit and crochet group (I will talk about this later)
It is not the best seaming job that I have seen...but not bad for my first time. There are so many babies being born this summer into our family and neighborhood that I decided to start early on the baby gifts. I am also working on another Tiramisu blanket and some other baby outfits.

Hope you all like. I did not use the recommended yarn for this project. I used some of the skeins of Simply Soft in orchid that I had in my stash. I could not believe how much it split. I may use the Baby Soft Lion Brand yarn in pistashio for the next one. Although, my neighbor who liked it...commented on how she loved how soft the yarn was. She has an 18 month old who would look adorable in one. Hmmmm...of course I already bought the Baby Soft yarn. I am sure I will figure out something. See, I told you all in blogger world that I was working on crocheted stuff. YAY!

Looky what I made and what I got!

2008-04-20T21:58:00.008-04:00

WARNING: image heavy

I made a few interesting tawashi's for the tawashi swap. I made a scrubby out of Knit Picks Shine that reminded me of a watermelon when it was finished. Wouldn't ya know, my swap partner revealed after the swap that she loves watermelons!!! Perfect. I told her that she may want to use it as a shower scrubby since I made it out of cotton....she agreed.

Then I had some fun making an amigurumi carrot for scrubbing carrots!!!! I think it came out cute...not bad for my first time....

Then I had my hand at making some crocheted flowers....that looks like stars...

Lastly, I gave an extra treat of handmade stitch markers in a crocheted case, of course!.

And look what I got...

Fishy Tawashi and some beautiful stitch markers which I forgot to photograph ;)

Back in the saddle again....

2008-04-07T23:54:00.005-04:00

I have been working on some crochet lately. Is it finishing the boboletta sweater??? NO.....Is it completing a promised Christmas present??? NO. I have been crocheting Tawashi. What are TAWASHIS you may ask...?

This excerpt is taken from a Ravelry.

Tawashi: Japanese Scrubbers to Knit and Crochet
by OkinawaOtter

"What’s a tawashi for? Ta-wash-i the dishes, of course!
I can hear you groaning, but my feelings are not hurt, because I know that you probably just learned a new word, and you won’t forget it anytime soon!
Tawashi is Japanese for “scrubber” or “brush”. In the stores here (Okinawa, Japan), there is usually a larger tawashi section than a dish detergent section, because part of the idea behind tawashi is that they are environmentally friendly. When made of acrylic yarn, they are quite effective even without detergent, thus reducing groundwater pollution.
Tawashi are sometimes made in the shape of the items to be cleaned: for example, a paw print or fish shape to clean the pet dishes or homes, and food shapes for use in the kitchen. Various holiday or seasonal themes are very popular as well. Some are simple squares or motifs, while others are knitted or crocheted pieces with clever assemblies, like three strips woven into a ball. There are even tawashi made that incorporate other cleaning supplies. An example of this is one of my favorites – it is a crocheted strawberry that is then attached to the bristle part of a toothbrush. Now your tawashi has a handle AND the added bonus of double scrubbing action, not to mention an increased “kawaii” factor!

A lot of Japanese tawashi books contain both knit and crochet projects, because more often than not, Japanese crafters learn both crafts, rather than one or the other. There are even weaving, crochet-on-the-double, and “no skills required” tawashi, so anyone can make at least one! There are some resources online for free tawashi patterns.

Don’t read Japanese? Never fear, the charts are pretty easy to figure out, and the photography is excellent, so you can use the pictures as a reference.
Cruise around on this site for a while, and you will find LOTS of useful information, like needle conversion charts and translation of Japanese crafting phrases.

You don’t have to search around on the Japanese sites to make your own tawashi – make a free form scrubby, or get inspiration from other projects! For example, knit a mitred square or crochet a flower, add a hanging loop, and you’re done! Hang it by the sink and pat yourself on the back for your resourcefulness!

Most crafters are already familiar with the Japanese dolls known as “amigurumi”, and now they can add “tawashi” to their repertoire as well. This is another way to have “instant gratification” on a project – AND a way to use up some of those acrylic yarn scraps!"

I joined the Tawashi Ravelry group...and just completed in a premiere swap. I will post pictures soon of what I made...and what I received. Tawashi are great projects for me in many ways....they are instant gratification, portable, stashbuster and most of all fun!

I have been TAGGED!!

2008-04-01T00:14:00.003-04:00

My crochet friend, Ghost has tagged me....

Here are the rules:

1. Link your tagger and list these rules on your blog.

2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.

3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs.

4. Let them know they are tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

So, here ya go!

Seven random things about me:

1. I married my high school sweetheart.

2. I became a mini-van mom at 25 years old.

3. I am obsessed with Buffy the Vampire Slayer series and I am finally on the last season.

4. I used to scrapbook, but have since gotten hooked on crochet.

5. I use text messaging way to much on my cell phone, like a teenager.

6. My guilty pleasure is having a gourmet iced coffee, Almond Joy from Mary Lous News

7. My favorite gemstone is a tanzanite.

OK, now whom to tag back?

1. Needles

2. Ginny

3. Li

4. Donna

5. Tracie

6. Michelle

7. Candy

Spring is in the air???

2008-03-09T14:56:00.003-04:00

We had a touch of Spring this past week as the temperature reached 60 degrees F. It was short lived as it reached a low of 28 degrees F that same night. This week coming it is supposed to be quite chilly, tomorrow at the bus stop it will be a balmy 17 degrees. The reason I bring up this crazy New England weather is because finally, I got around crocheting my boboletta last night. I am determined to finish it before the official start of spring, so I can at least wear my sweater once before the warmer weather. I started this sweater on January 12th...but have not consistently worked on this for weeks. My only excuse is that I started watching Buffy The Vampire Slayer series on dvd. It is such a jam packed hour, that I can not crochet or surf the net while watching...or I will seriously miss an important detail. And, I guess there would be time to fit in crochet as well during the evening if I stopped at just one episode a night, but this is not the case. I end up watching 3 or 4 episodes a night. It is so addicting. A friend of mine got me hooked...as I never was into the series when it hit the airwaves in 1997. Just to good.

I have not forgotten about crochet completely. I have been busy organizing my new craft room. We finished remodeling our basement, so the boys have a new playroom downstairs. So, the playroom upstairs became available for me to take over! I started to organize my yarns. That is no easy feat. I have a lot of cottons and acrylics. I have been really disciplined since the first of the year and have not bought any new yarns. Obviously, I have really not started any new projects...but that is besides the point ;) I am trying to make my craft room an oasis. I have some pretty scented candles...planning on perhaps getting a big comfy chair and possibly an area rug. I have taken all my crochet books and magazines and neatly placed them on a shelf. It is getting there.

Have not forgotten about you...but i would hate to bore you with non crochet stories. especially since there are no new crochet stories. But alas, I really need to finish some projects and move on to new ones.

Bad, Bad Blogger

2008-02-14T23:34:00.006-05:00

I know, I know...I have been such a slacker blogger lately...and for that I apologize. Nothing is really going on in my crochet world except Warm Up America squares and my Boboletta (which is coming along nicely I might add). Just wanted to wish you a Happy Valentine's day!

On a cute note...I was crocheting while my son was at a birthday party. It was one of those arcade/jungle gym places. I got hit on by a man who was at least 80 years old. He asked me if I was making him a sweater. The party was about 2 hours, and by the end the gentleman was leaving said, "You are going to meet me here next week because you are just not fast enough with my sweater!" So cute!

A crocheter who loves books.....

2008-01-29T21:37:00.000-05:00

The Vogue Knitting Stitchionary 4 is one of the books I got over Christmas. Now, I have a few stitch dictionary books already...but it is always nice to add another one to the collection, right? "Crochet is the hottest trend in crafting today. This inspiring fourth volume from the best selling stitchionary series includes chapters on many different crochet techniques: basics, geometrics, color, lace, edgings, and embellishments." What I really like about this book, is all of the stitches have beautiful photos taken of them that are crisp and clear. Each stitch has written and charted directions. The charts are drawn in color similar to the swatch example on the given stitch. It is also a great source for some crochet inspiration if needed.

This reference is coming in handy for me right now. I am currently working one one of my crochet resolutions for 2008. Making something for charity.

Crochetville is having a CAL for Warm up America. Caron is sponsoring a contest for making 7" x 9" crochet or knit sections (rectangles) for Warm Up America. It's called the Soften the World Simply Soft Sweepstakes. There are two categories, individuals and groups. Individuals can submit a single rectangle to win $25 in Simply Soft yarn (20 winners chosen randomly). In the group category, the group that submits the most rectangles wins a check for $300 for their group. All rectangles must be made with Simply Soft yarn and will be donated to Warm Up America. So, I have been using my stitchionary as a guide for my rectangles. So far, Crochetville has collected 235 squares. And so far, I have crocheted ONE! I am getting there. If you are interested more about the contest or would like to participate, click here.

Who knew????

2008-01-24T23:41:00.000-05:00

Who knew that winding endless balls of yarn could be so fun? I am procrastinating on my boboletta. I am excited that there is a CAL (crochet a long) on crochetville about the boboletta. The pattern is not difficult, but there are a couple of sentences that could have been worded differently. I am waiting for a couple of people to catch up to me on the pattern so we can work it out together. Hmmmmmm...what else could I be doing? Ahem.....finish a Christmas gift maybe. Maybe not. So, I decided to clean up my yarn baskets and try out my new ball winder. Trying to organize. Trying to procrastinate...must. finish. first wearable.

Snow day....

2008-01-15T23:40:00.001-05:00

Well, we had our first snow day of the school year. It was a nice way to extend a weekend!

The kids had fun playing in the snow and building snowmen as I crocheted!!!!! I have been busy the last few weeks crocheting, but really nothing to show for it. I ripped out my Kimono Shrug at three times due to my sides not lining up. But thanks to the people responded, especially Ghost...I think I have fixed my problem...Thanks.

Well...then I received some of my order from Webs. 13 skeins of Berrocco Ultra Alpaca (the rest is on back order ). I decided to put my Kimono down, and start something else. I ordered the Boboletta Cacoon Sweater pattern from Gourmet Crochet. Then, I received my order from Joann.com which included a ball winder. Oh, boy...what fun. So, to make a long story short....I decided to ball up some Ultra Alpaca and start the Boboletta. Currently that is what I am working on now. I will definitely take pictures on my progress and the beautiful yarn as soon as I get new batteries for the camera!

I also destashed my Noro Silk Garden to make a scarf. I have made the Shelly scarf from Crochet Me, about three times now. It is a real easy pattern, and the results are beautiful. I decided it was time to make one for me. I don't know how I feel about this yarn. I am hoping it will soften up after washing it. It is a bit scratchy...and now that I am writing this....it probably not the best yarn to wrap around my neck. Hmmmmm, going to have to rethink this one.

My hubby asked for me to make him a hat. I have never made a hat before, except for my Cranium hat. I was looking at Crochet Garden's Thick Warm Crocheted Winter Hat. So, that is a project for another day.

I think that crocheted cables are the "new" crochet thing. I have noticed them in a lot of designs. I am going to have to practice these, because I am not finding them that easy. Have you noticed a lot of cables?? In the next weeks or so I will be reviewing a couple of books that I received for Christmas. Oh, great fun!!!!!

Happy 2008

2008-01-01T14:51:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to wish my blog readers a Happy New Year filled with lots of love, much happiness and health. Thanks for being faithful readers and making this blog a success this past year.

On Crochetville, they have a thread going on about what your crochet resolutions will be in 2008. I thought I would share mine with you today.

Since I have been crocheting for almost a year....these are my first crochet resolutions.

Try to use up stash yarn. Maybe difficult since I have so many sized and colored balls left.

Only buy yarn for a project I plan to do. Unnecessary yarn buying because it is on sale or free shipping after $45. Of course this does not apply to my Christmas $$ that I plan on buying random yarns on sale online....

I need to not be so afraid of making a wearable. I need to be challenged more and need to try to understand patterns more and construction of a sweater.

Need a well written explanation on how to sew squares together.

Find a basic class on sewing...it would help my crochet skills.

Do some sort of charity crocheting this year.

So...that is it for now. I am sure I will think of many through out the year. I have decided to try my hand and hook at the Kimono Shrug pattern. I bought Caron Simply Soft in a light purple with white as the second color. So far I have ripped it out several times. I am having problems with the most simplest of things. Does this ever happen to any of you???

I can't for the life of me get this side to be straight. Mind you, the opposite side is perfectly straight. I do not understand because I am counting correctly. It is so frustrating to me. I should be able to get this skill down...hehehhe. How am I ever to make a wearable with my crocheted sides like this. Hmmmmmmm, any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Anyways, enjoy your New Years!

4:30 in the A.M.

2007-12-25T21:03:00.000-05:00

Yes....you have read that correct. I was up until 4:30 A.M. not wrapping gifts but, Christmas morning trying desperately to finish my grandmothers afghan throw. (I did a variation on this pattern.) You know....it is not like I left it to the last minute on purpose....but it just kinda happened to work out like that. I did start this project soon before Thanksgiving....I remember because I was contemplating on bringing it to Thanksgiving dinner to work on the afghan in front of her...but quickly rejected that idea because it just didn't seem right. Then soon afterwords I had the sickness from hell. And you know that one is really sick, when they don't want to do anything that they normally do...ie, go on the Internet, crochet and talk on the phone. So...I really did not get the urge to crochet again until two weeks ago. I read fellow blogger blogs....trying to get inspired to finish up on Christmas crocheting...only to get really put off by the fact that I only had 8 more days until......And of course when I did finally did get inspired to start to finish....I totally procrastinated on this particular project and made a scarf for one of my friend's Christmas gift. Suddenly....it was Christmas eve...and I still had three more balls of yarn to miraculously whip up in to this throw. Is this going to happen? Is this ever going to be complete and ready to give Christmas day? It had to get completed...I had no choice.

I started crocheting around noon on Christmas eve. Did some stitchin' until around 1:30 P.M.....went food shopping for Christmas dinner (and yes...thank you I know what you are all thinking...I do wait until the last minute to do anything. Thank God for the last minute or nothing would ever get done in my life) By the time I got home, food put away, children had to get dressed and ready for Christmas eve celebrations at my Father -in-laws house. Ekkkkkkkkks...no time to shower.....just straighten up hair a bit by throwing it up in a clip....and continue stitchin' till we left at 4:00 P.M.

Enjoyed a nice dinner of stuffed shells, stuffed mushrooms, lots of shrimp and tons of goodies. (very tasty Nicole, BTW) And sat myself down on the nice cushy sofa and started stitchin' again. Volunteered my two sister-in-laws to roll a skein each into a ball for me...and you guessed it...stitched. Fast forward to 10:30 P.M......got children into bed all cosy while sugar plums danced in their heads.....left Santa's cookies and milk...left reindeer food outside (oatmeal and glitter mixed up) and carrots for Rudolph. Played Santa for two boys, set up the bikes....and grabbed a drink, watched It's a Wonderful life (again) and Christmas Story (twice that night) and stitched.....and stitched, and stitched and stitched until I could not stitch no more...and my wrist was aching too. Looked at the DVD clock and it flashed 4:30 A.M. WHAT THE %$&! My kids are going to be up in less than three hours......ekkkkkkkkkks and....wahhhhhhhhhh the afghan is NOT done yet.

In a quick 2 and a half hours from 4:30 A.M....opened presents....YAY (see Christmas post), washed new dish set from mom for Christmas dinner, washed table cloth and napkins, started ham...started boiling potatoes.....and talked to family...they are coming at 1:30 P.M. or so. Time check...10:30 A.M....get children dressed to go outside and ride new bikes in driveway (every where covered in snow by the way....) and finally sat down to weave end many ends....and finish fringe. 12:30 P.M....rolls around....not finished with fringe yet...looks up outside and notice my family is here already. WAHHHHHHHHH...not finished. Not dressed....runs to pack afghan in a box...and greets family frantically.

How does this story end?

With one very happy grandma and an afghan with almost all of its fringe!!!!!

Ho- Ho-Ho!!

2007-12-25T20:51:00.000-05:00

Wishing everyone in Blog land a very Merry Christmas. We are just finishing up the day here...had my family over for dinner. Super yummy appetizers...a nice maple glazed ham, garlic mashed potatoes with melted cheddar, sweet potatoes, buttered corn, Campbell's soup bean and onion mixture. It was a definite Christmas feast. Santa was very nice to us this year. And my poor living room looks like Toys 'R' Us threw up in our living room.

Happy Birthday, Baby!

2007-12-09T18:22:00.000-05:00

Five years ago today, my son Aidan was born at a whopping 11 pounds and 4 oz. He was such a huge baby. He did not even fit into newborn clothes or diapers. He had some breathing problems at birth...and needed a blood transfusion so he ended up in the NICU for about a week. I can't believe it has gone by so fast.

O.K...so I have been among the missing. I have a good excuse, I really do. I am recovering from strep throat and the worst ear infection I have ever had in my life. The pain was so intense that I had to go to the ER in the wee hours in the morning to get checked out. I could not wait until my Doctor's office opened the next day. I had a few days of the chills and sweats...but that has passed. I have a missed a whole week of time. I did not even leave the house for anything. You know when I am really sick when 1) I don't log on to the computer for a couple of days and 2) did not have any interest in crocheting at all. I have soooo much to do. We'll see if I can get it all done.

Crocheting along

2007-11-27T00:33:00.000-05:00

Hello there. It has been a very busy week or so...and life is getting back to normal. We had a very nice Thanksgiving feast at my parents house. It was unseasonably warm...around 67 degrees F. So, it felt a bit weird...not being cold. I can remember from years past, when my hubby(then high school sweetheart), Father in law and I would always go to our local high school football game. We would freeze out there. I can remembering not liking coffee at that time (wow...that has certainly changed) and buying a large hot cocoa instead. No, not last Thursday. We turned off our heat and opened all the windows. Bizarre.

So...I finally started my grandmothers throw. I definitely got into the groove this long weekend. I was very tempted to bring my crocheting to my mother's house on Thanksgiving, but decided it was not appropriate to crochet my grandmothers throw in front of her. It is about 20 inches side so far. I am getting there. I am adapting this pattern. I am using the recommended colors...cream and burgundy. I think it will come out very nicely.

I have not started my Christmas shopping yet. I am still not in the holiday spirit yet. I think once we decorate the house, trim our tree....and write our Christmas cards....maybe I can start to think about playing Santa. I was very tempted to get up before dawn and hit the early bird sales....but that did not happen. I most likely do the bulk of my shopping when my youngest is in school or during a weeknight. Weeknights seem to be a lot less crowded. Until next time...

Crochet motivation

2007-11-15T19:14:00.000-05:00

Boy...do I need some. I have projects that desperately need to be worked on...Christmas projects to be exact. I have them all planned out...yarn already purchased....just need to get my mojo on. Hopefully, I will have more to report on the next time I blog. Scratch that....I WILL have progress to report on...and pictures to keep me accountable. Looking foward to the short school week next week. Here in the States we celebrate our Thanksgiving Holiday next Thurday. MMMMMMMM...if I close my eyes long enough I can almost taste the stuffing, and blueberry pies!!!!

Wanna see crochet on T.V.?

2007-11-10T01:37:00.000-05:00

I do. And I am disappointed that The Knit and Crochet Today Show is not airing in the Boston area. I actually am quite surprised. So if you are interested in having it come to your PBS station.....click here and fill out your region. I have read different critiques of the show....but I would like to find out for myself!

Sox Mania

2007-11-08T19:44:00.000-05:00

And no....I am not talking about the Boston Red Sox for once! I have actually attempted to make a sock. Yes, I have tried socks before. The question is.....have I ever finished one? Best yet....have I even got past the cuff? The answer is no. I have borrowed from the library the book Crocheted Socks by Janet Rehfeld and Mary Jane Wood. I attempted to start the cuff of a sock...and that is as far as I got. I just got frustrated because I just could not wrap my head around how to turn a heel...and what is thing called a gusset? Well....one of my favorite blogs Needles and Things is going bananas for socks. Needles loves making socks. She gets all this great sock yarn and is feverishly making socks for family members. As I scratch my head....I wonder...what is all this buzz about socks? I mean, I have seen some absolutely beautiful handmade socks online and in books. I must give this sock thing a try...and not give up after the cuff. So, the other day I was checking out some great crocheted socks on Ravelry. I came across this pattern called Snow Day socks. I actual had the the December 2006 Crochet Today that the pattern was in and also found it online. I thought they looked just darling so I decided to buy the suggested sock yarn, Moda Dea Sassy Stripes in Rugby Red, and give it the ol' college try. This is what is transforming in front of my eyes.

Now I know, I know.....it looks more like a Christmas stocking than a sock...but take a close look. I actually turned the heel...and check out the ribbed cuff...I am impressing even myself...hehehhehehhe. It is not the best yarn to work with....but I absolutely love, love, love how the striping pattern is turning out. Hmmmmm, any one know of any good sock yarn that would pattern like this?????

As to why it is coming out sooooo big....I honestly did a gauge swatch, so I don't know why. I did choose the largest size to make...but maybe I needed to go down one size. I am not done yet...but I may be finishing the toes tonight!

I have also been busy THINKING a lot about Christmas gifts that I could make. I am wondering if I should make my grandma an afghan. I think she would love to wrapped in something that I made for her. As my boys say...."love in every stitch." I bought some rainbow multi colored yarn to make a swatch for another block afghan. I know, I publicly proclaimed I would not do another afghan that needs to be put together....BUT...I may have to break my own rule. We'll see. Bernat makes a pink camouflage yarn....that may be a cool afghan..but maybe not so appropriate for my 85 year old grandma. I'll have to do some more pondering! Bye for now.

Red Sox Rocks

2007-10-29T22:13:00.001-04:00

What else is there more to say?

Tiramisu Complete

2007-10-28T17:01:00.000-04:00

I finished the blanket a couple of nights ago. I am really happy with the results. This is one of the first finished objects that I am completely satisfied how it turned out. I loved the feel of the Bernat Tots cotton yarn that I used, it is soooo soft. It is not as heavy as I would expect a cotton blanket to be. I am super in love with the brown ribbon and the pink trim around the cream colored body of the blanket. Believe it or not, the ribbon gave me the most trouble as I was weaving it in and out of the double crochets. I am going to leave you with a bunch of pictures!!! I think I will be doing this as my signature baby blanket for all the new babies in my life! It is just so classy and it looks like something that would be bought in a boutique. Maybe it is the simplicity of the v-stitch, or it just could be the color combo. Love the brown and the pink together.

Tiramisu Baby Blanket

2007-10-22T09:20:00.001-04:00

I am trying to be festive with these pictures.

Ultimately, what I am trying to achieve is some non boring pictures of what I have done so far on the Tiramisu Baby Blanket. I love how the stitches are coming out. The stitch is called the V stitch and it is super easy to do. Two single stitches in one chain. The stitch does become boring after a while, but as I said in my last post....I have entertainment to help me along. I have about 10 more inches left to do, then I will be starting the border in a pale pink. The body of the blanket is done in Bernat CottonTots 100 % cotton in Sweet Cream colorway. I still have to buy some matching ribbon to weave in and out of the border. Here is some more pics....

World Series 2007

2007-10-22T09:03:00.000-04:00

Boston Red Sox Rock!!!!!!

If I am not listening to a podcast while I crochet, then I am watching the Red Sox. I got kinda used to it...since May. All summer long...AC on, fan on...red sox on, crochet hook and yarn....what a perfect night. Even if I am not watching PerSe, then I am definitely listening to the crowd cheer and chant and the crack of the bat against a home run ball. We won the AC LS last night against the Cleveland Indians, and now we are in the race to the World Series starting on Wednesday night in Fenway Park, Boston. Home field advantage. You should see how many rows I did last night while watching the "winner takes all" games last night. Some say it was a nail biter kinda game, and I say....watch how fast and nervously I can crochet! GO SOX!!!!!!!

Winter Scarf Swap

2007-10-16T23:13:00.000-04:00

I know I am about two weeks late on posting this, but I want to give Donna (sewnsew) from Crochetville a big THANK YOU for being such a great swap parner. I got two gorgeous scarves, some yummy Bernat Chunky Yarn, some hot cocoa, and this gorgeous purse full of stitch markers. Here are some pics...thanks so much!

Crochet Revolution

2007-10-14T19:58:00.000-04:00

Friendly. Down to earth. Energetic. Enthusiastic. These are a few words to describe my first impressions of Kim Werker. I had the most fantastic day today celebrating the launching of Kim Werker's new book Crochet Me. I made the two and a half hour drive out to Northampton, Massachusetts to Webs America's Yarn Store for the launch. I was also way excited because it was my first time at the yarn store. And what a yarn store it is. That is an absolute understatement! More on that later. O.k...so, it seems that I misunderstood Kathy Elkins, owner of Webs, and thought the store opened at 12:00 P.M., two hours before the event. Hmmmmm, I was wrong. I arrived at Webs around 11:30 A.M.....and quickly found out that the store was going to open around 1:30 P.M. What is a girl supposed to do you ask? Crochet of course! I started on the Tiramisu Baby Blanket for a new baby girl named Eva. But, that only lasted for about 45 minutes and decided that I better go into town and find a bite to eat. I found this nice little cafe and ordered an apple cinnamon muffin and a mowhawk chocolate chai tea. It was super busy, so I took it to go and back with me to Webs and enjoyed it as I waited in the parking lot.

I met a very nice woman named Sharon from Connecticut. She was also waiting to get into the store. We chatted a bit about crochet and yarn. It is nice to meet an actual fiber friend that understands the craft. As an aside, I was eating dinner with my sister in law and some family last night and was trying to explain where I was going on Sunday and why. They all gave me an odd look and replied, "You are driving 2 1/2 hours to look at yarn and buy a crochet book?" They just don't get it. My 6 year old son even asked me, "How can there be a book on crochet?" But he was genuine and really did not get it. I explained to him that there are crochet patterns in a book that tells you how to make something sort of like a recipe tells you how to make dinner. I think he got it more than my in-laws..haha!

Finally around 1:15 we were allowed to come in and look around while Kim set up. It was a trunk show and tell show, and many items in the new book was on display. Also displayed was The Larger than Life Bag from Spring 2007 Interweave Crochet and the famous Babett Blanket from the Spring 2006 Interweave Crochet.

As I asked Kim if I could take her picture of her for her for my blog...she asked what is the name of my blog. Crochet Creations...and she said that she read this log before. NO FREAKING WAY....how thrilling is that. The crochet goddess Kim Werker has checked out my blog. Oh, my...I felt famous for a second!! LOL.

Kim did a wonderful presentation on the different contributors and designers of the book...discussed their creations, and talked about different stitches used in each project, gauge and drape. And then the real fun began...hehhehehehehe. I got to shopping! Truth be told, I was a bit overwhelmed by my surroundings. There was yarn, yarn, and more yarn. The front room was set up like your typical yarn store....but with a lot of space :) And then there was the warehouse with all the close out deals.....

Well...of course I did not go home empty handed. But, since I did not have a certain project in mind, buying yarn was not that easy. I did not want to buy just to buy so, I bought 4 skeins of Valley Yarns in Colrain (50 % Merino, 50 % Tencel). 2 Skeins in majestic blue and 2 skeins in mauve. I bought The Spring 2006 issue of Interweave Crochet, a Addi Skacel G hook, an afghan J hook, and Eucalan wool wash. I also bought the Crochet Me book and had Kim sign it. I also got a chance to introduce myself to Kathy Elkins the owner and let her know how I listen to her every Sunday night and really enjoy her podcast. I say it was a trip well worth the effort and expense to get to participate in the Crochet Revolution with Kim Werker!!

Works in mind

2007-10-09T20:27:00.000-04:00

Sorry that I have not blogged in a while. I have been meaning to take pictures of some stuff I have been working on...but every time I think of doing it....it is dusk and I need the natural sunlight to take decent photos. Since I have blogged, I have bought some nice yarn. I was dying to try the new Moda Dea yarn called Bamboo Wool. Oh my...this is so soft...and has a wonderful drape. I bought the color called Chili Pepper Red. I am in the process of making my sister-in-law a scarf. She is the only person I know that wears scarfs on a regular basis. She will use it for warmth and for an accessory. On the Moda Dea website they give 8 reasons to love bamboo.

BAMBOO is an amazing fiber. Here are just a few reasons why you'll love it.
Eco-friendly – a renewable resource (Bamboo can reach a mature height of 75 feet within in two months)
Naturally anti-bacterial
Odor resistant
Breathable and cool
3 times more absorbent than cotton
Durable and strong, yet has a silky hand

I also bought some Moda Dea Silk Wool blend. I bought 6 skeins in plum to make myself a shawl. I want a shawl so I can wear in the morning when I wake up and have my coffee on my front steps. So, I need to find a pattern for a shawl that isn't too lacy. I have tried to start this shawl three times now, but I just can not find the right pattern for this yarn. It is a nice yarn that is super squishy and has a nice stretch to it. Funny, because a couple of weeks back I had bought Noro Silk Garden for a scarf. The Silk Garden that is also made up of wool and silk. I actually like Modea Dea's version a lot better. And of course I like the the price and yardage better. I was a bit disappointed in the Silk Garden. I was surprised how much I did not like the feel. Although, I do love the beautiful colorways. I really wanted to love the Silk Garden. I have read so many good things about it....but it just didn't jive with me.

My friend's sister just had a baby girl Eva and I was thinking about making her a baby blanket. Looking deep in my stash for this one. I do have some beautiful purple TLC Essentials an acrylic yarn that I think would work perfectly for the blanket. It is a bit different from the typical pink...but that is what I like about it...

I will post pictures soon. Oh yeah, I also got my swap package the other day. Wait to you see all the goodies I got!

Just got my November/December issue of Crochet Today and I have only thumbed through it fast. But, there is some beautiful things in there that I would love to make someday. I have to work on some of my Christmas gifts too.

Prayer shawl revisited

2007-09-26T20:16:00.000-04:00

A couple of weeks ago, I finally completed the comfort/prayer shawl that I was making for a friend who was diagnosed with lung cancer. We were at a BBQ together, and she was happy to get out and be around friends. I told her that I made something for her. She was speechless when she received the shawl. I told her that every stitch was stitched with a prayer and good thoughts for a quick recovery. I told her that soon it will be chilly and it will come in handy. I also told her to wear it when she is going through her chemo treatments. She was so thankful.

This past Friday I received a call from her. She said that she was wearing the shawl and realized how much work went into the shawl. She was again, so thankful. She said she was also getting a lot of compliments on it when she wore it to the hospital clinic. She sounded so well and had good spirits. Carol is a very spiritual person. In fact, she owned a metaphysical store. She is using a lot of guided imagery during her radiation and chemo. She believes that her recovery is not only based on medical treatments, but also a mind, body and soul perspective. She is very wise. Sending positive energy and get well vibes to you, Carol.

Winter scarf swap

2007-09-26T19:28:00.000-04:00

Finally, my swap package arrived at Donna's (aka sewnsew from Crochetville) door step. The theme of the swap was to make a winter scarf. I chose this great pattern from Crochet Me (More about the latest on the Crochet Me site). When I think of winter, I automatically think of a warm cuppa coffee or some tea. So, I included a nice mug and some flavored coffee and an assortment of tea. I also included some candies goodies for her girls, some cotton yarn from Knit Picks and a Quilter's tote that would of course be great for toting around WIP. Donna really liked all the stuff....and I am thrilled. I think the best part of any swap is when your partner gets the gift. I think it is even better than getting my part of the swap. Although, I am excited to get mine!!!

The online magazine Crochet Me has totally revamped their website and it looks great. It is more of an interactive site with forums and more of a community feel. Mosey on over and check it out. If you are ever in search of a some really awesome patterns, check out their pattern page. It is so much easier to search it now that the site is in a new beta mode. Jeez, between Crochetville, Ravelry and now Crochet Me, when will I ever find time to crochet????? ;)

Fingerless Gloves

2007-09-17T23:32:00.000-04:00

I have been wanted to make a pair for a while now. I just could not find the right pattern. Believe me, I found plenty ones that I would have loved to knit...but that is not gonna help me. Finally, I came upon a winter glove pattern on Bernat's website. As I was making the glove and tried it on as I crocheted....I thought they would look great....unfinished. I left off the rest of the glove and made fingerless glove. They came out perfect for what I wanted and they will also come in handy when I am driving and at my sons bus stop, sipping coffee.
I used the new Bernat Softee Chunky Twists. I loved it. It is 100% acrylic, but acrylic has it's place too. It is a bulky weight, so these gloves took no time to crochet up. I loved how the ribbing showsup on the cuff. Sorry about the unfocused picture, but didn't realize it until after I uploaded the photos.

Rainbow Blankie

2007-09-16T19:59:00.000-04:00

Finally, I am finished with my son's rainbow blankie. I have been working on this blanket on and off for about 6 months now. I would do it in spurts...have a go at it for a while, then completely forget about it. My husband would comment every time I started a new project. "What about A's afghan??? Don't you think he would like to keep warm this winter. He would really love it from his mom."

This blanket is made out of Red Heart yarn. When asked what color he wanted, he said "ALL" the colors. So, I choose a bunch of colors and called it The Rainbow Blankie. I was surprised because after I washed it, I was expecting it to soften up. It did not. Hopefully with some wear it will soften up. It is of my own design. It is done in a single stitch....one block at a time. To tell you the truth, I don't know if I want to make another blanket that has to be sewn together in pieces. I single stitched them together with a navy blue yarn. You can't tell by these pictures, but they are a bit uneven. Thank goodness I picked a recipient who does not pay attention to detail.

Yarn review

2007-09-12T22:10:00.000-04:00

Moda Dea Vision

Basic Yarn Information:

Fiber content 65% Wool 35% Acrylic
Skein yardage/weight 155 yards, 3.5 oz, 100 g
Recommended hook size/gauge I
How many ply? 2 (I think)
Manufacturer's suggested retail price and/or actual price $4.99
Name and/or URL of store where you purchased yarn AC Moore http://www.acmoore.com/
Any other places you know of where yarn can be purchased That is the only place that I have seen it so far.

Care of Yarn:

Washing Hand Wash in cold
Drying dry flat
Any special requirements
How does yarn/project look/handle after being cleaned? TBA
Did the color run when washed? TBA

Yarn Characteristics:

How easy is it to crochet with? What about ripping out? Smooth, forgiving yarn after frogging.
Any stretch? a bit
Does it produce fuzz/lint? none
Does it pill? not yet
How does it wear? So far so good
How does it reflect light? Saturates the light
How does it look crocheted? Beautiful
Are any other yarns similar or identical? One of the best Wool/acrylics blends I have used so far.

Project Specifics:

What did you make with the yarn? Scarf and mittens
What hook size did you use? j
Are simple stitches best? How do complex stitches look? Does not show stitch definition.
Describe drape of finished project This project had wonderful drape...not stiff at all.
What other types of projects would this yarn work well for? Winter apparel like scarves, hats, mittens, slippers, shawls
Is there any project this yarn would not be suited for? Cooler weather garments. Too warm.

I really was pleasantly surprised that this yarn worked up so smoothly. It never split. After just working with Noro Silk Garden (Silk, wool), I liked working with Visons much more. Visions had a much softer feel to it and worked up better. Not a perfect comparison because they are made out of different materials....but this is my assessment.

September 11, 2001

2007-09-11T23:33:00.000-04:00

We will NEVER forget.

International Crochet Day

2007-09-05T21:01:00.000-04:00

That is right....on September 12th, 2007 is the first annual crochet day. SO, I am spreading the word. Jimbo and some others on Crochetville started this. Some people are adding posts to their blogs about the holiday to spread the word; we have folks who are organizing crochet lessons on that day; we have several who are doing special crochet projects for charity; we have posters being made for a church group; we have greeting cards being made; we have a commitment to ROAK (Random Act Of Kindness) someone who has yet to receive one; we have word of mouth promotion. The Mascot for this "holiday" is a nekkid sheep. How cute!

As for my crochet world....I joined the winter scarf swap at Crochetville. I went out and bought all this new yarn for the project. I can not for the life of me make a straight scarf. It should be the easiest of all projects. I have been using stitch markers and everything. Since Sunday, I have started to crochet 4 different scarfs. Did you ever have day, or a couple of days in a row, that you feel like you don't know how to crochet right? I feel like I have never crocheted before. I really don't know what my problem is. UGH. Back to the drawing board. Maybe I should start crocheting dishcloths again. They look straight up and down the sides. HUMPH. A little project that makes me smile because I finish a project in just a sitting or two. Where is my cotton yarn.?.....(rummaging through yarn baskets frantically!!!!!!)

Summer Vacation is Over

2007-08-29T23:32:00.001-04:00

This is what greeted us as we walked outside this morning. A friedly little spider. Look at him, he is furry......eeeeeeeeks.

Today was the first day of first grade for my son C. Morning came early and the bus arrived at the bus stop promptly at 8:00 A.M. This is the first full day of school for C. Last year was only a half day. So, he had recess and lunch today for the first time. I packed his lunch and told him that I put a special suprise on his napkin and to think of me when he sees it. It was a smiley face sticker!!!! After a long day, he came home and changed into shorts and had some snacks. He had a good day. Liked his new teacher, reunited wth some old friends and met some new ones. Now mom can rest assured since the first day is out of the way. Below are some pictures waiting for the bus. When I went to Walmart last night for some last minute school supplies, I picked up a Boston Red Sox t-shirt for him. IHe was so excited. It was his only request for new clothes. Sport shirts.

Crocheting along

2007-08-26T19:24:00.000-04:00

I am feeling like a human again. Yay. I picked up the hook last night as I caught up on listening to my favorite fiber podcasts. I have a couple of favorites, o.k...maybe more than a couple. I listen to Brenda Dayne's Cast on, Webs' Ready, Set, Knit, Jenny and Nicole's Stash and Burn, Marley's Yarn Thing, Guido's It's a Purl, Man, and the Lelly's Knit Pick's podcast. I really enjoy listening to these podcasts when I am crocheting and everyone in the house is sleeping. It is nice to turn the T.V. off...and listen to itunes. I find it extremely interesting about the newest fibers that on the market with the Webs podcast. Actually, I drool when I listen to all the great buys the store has going. They have a good website that photographs the fibers beautifully for perfect color matches, A-1 customer service, and super close out prices. They usually interview someone that is active in the fiber industry be it an author or an editor of a fiber magazine to a president of a successful yarn manufacturer. It is worth a listen too.

I recently started to listen to Stash and Burn...and it makes me realize that I really do not have a stashing problem at all. Jenny and Nicole have huge amounts of yarn. It makes me laugh knowing that they can go into their yarn stash, and find enough yarn to make a sweater. I don't know about your stashes, but I may be lucky to find a complete skein in my collection. I guess I have a lot of one skein and left over skeins. Never enough to do a large project. I get a kick out of their friendly banter back and forth.

I did not mean for this blog entry to become a podcast review, but it is definitely worth the time to download some of these shows for a listen. It keeps you update on fiber trends...and the newest yarns. Enclosed are some pics of the comfort shawl that I am working on. I have about 2 more skeins of Caron Simply Soft to add. I know it is not very exciting pattern, but I think she will enjoy it nevertheless. The third picture is the most color accurate, although thy are all pretty off from the rose color. It is hard to believe that they are the same color at all. Hmmmm...it must have been the flash on my camera. It was taken at dusk. If there is anything that I learned about blogging, is that my pictures come out the best when they are taken outside with natural light.

Under the weather

2007-08-24T21:26:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to check in. Have not done any crochet all week because I have been feeling crappy. This head cold has really knocked me off my feet this week. No fun. Ho Hum. Woe is me. Hopefully, I will feel better soon and start crocheting again.

I am IN!!!!

2007-08-20T20:29:00.000-04:00

Finally. I got my invite to Ravelry late Saturday night. It is rather comical because I have been checking daily my number in line. Friday I was #80...and Saturday it read that there was NO invites in front of me. I was freaking out at this point, because I had not received I got an invite although it said it did. Eventually I got the invite and was so pumped. As soon as I got access to the site, I was fooling around with all the options, entered my data and then went to bed it was so late. On Sunday, I was feeling sick, so I did not even get a chance to play around on Ravelry. WHAT??!!!! I waited three months to get my invite and then I am too sick to play. AGGGGGGRRRRRR. I know, I know, I have plenty of time, it was just a bit ironic. I am feeling a bit better now.

So, this weekend, I woke up to this in my yard....

This is our first time growing sunflowers, and we are so thrilled that it popped open. The kids are super excited. Just look at the pattern that the inside seeds are doing as the spread open. It is an interesting pattern.

On the crochet front...I have put all projects aside and started working on a prayer shawl for my sister in law's friend who just got diagnosed with cancer. I was thinking about what I could do for this woman...and flowers did not seem appropriate. It dawned on me that I could make a prayer shawl for her. It will comfort her as she goes through her treatments. It is a super easy pattern of 3 rows of double crochet and a one row of single crochet repeated through out. It just takes some time to complete, and I would say that I am 1/4 done with it. My brother's girlfriend had asked me a while back if I could crochet her a head band. Of course I would! So she bought some Bernat ping pong, and it was a disaster to work with. So I purchased some Bernat softee baby yarn in pink ans made the headband.

I used this pattern from The Crabby Crafter. It is done in bobbles and is a great project to use up some scraps which I think I maybe doing soon. Bobbles are rather easy to do. According to The Crabby Crafter, bobbles are made in the following way: bobble -- yo, insert hook in st, yo, draw a long loop through st (3 loops on hook), yo, insert hook in same st, draw a long loop through st (5 loops on hook), yo, insert hook in same st, draw a long loop through st (7 loops on hook), yo, draw through all 7 loops on hook. This is her version of what is sometimes called the pineapple stitch. Try it out, it is rather fun!

This week maybe????

2007-08-14T22:09:00.000-04:00

Ravelry

You signed up on June 14, 2007
You are #9196 on the list.
450 people are ahead of you in line.
16140 people are behind you in line.
34% of the list has been invited so far

I opened up a flicker account, so I can start taking pictures of my stash.

Knit Picks

2007-08-14T20:45:00.000-04:00

I got a wonderful package in the mail the other day. My order from Knit Picks. I really have been wanting some yarn from Knit Picks for some time now. I would cruise the site...dreaming about all the yarn choices. I wanted some nice yarn to doodle with that did not cost me an arm and a leg.

I tried to buy yarn that had projects attached to them. HA! That only half worked. I bought the Wool of The Andes for mittens. I am now on a quest for a great mitten pattern. Any ideas? I tried using the pattern I used for the bath mitt...but it came out way to small. I bought the Spinnaker 100% cotton to make a baby sweater. I had a heck of a time unwinding it from it's hank. It became an absolutely knotted up mess. I almost cried. It took me about and hour and a half to unravel it. And as fate would have it, I loathe working with the yarn. The texture is just so difficult to work with. Very difficult to see the stitched and forget about ripping back your work....almost impossible. It is so pretty to look at. I should have read the description of the yarn better.

I also purchased some Elegance (70% baby Alpaca, 30% silk, dk weight) in a lilac color and a grass color. It works up like a dream. It is really pleasure to work with. If you haven't tried Elegance...it is a must. I also ordered one skein of Andean Treasure in sunset which is 100% Baby Alpaca in a sport weight. Talk about soft. My review a couple of weeks back, sort of scorned Bernat new Alpaca Natural Blends because of it shedding. I assumed that a yarn that included more alpaca would make it shed more. That was a bad assumption because it is simply just not the case. For some unknown reason, I did not photograph these yarns. Hmmmmm What else?????.....

I also ordered some cotton blend yarns called Shine sport and Shine worsted, with absolutely no project in mind. These are made from 60% Pima Cotton, 40% Modal. The colors are just so summery. I could not pass it up. I have not tried to play with this yarn yet. I would love to get some comments on what exactly what I should make from these single skeins. Please, any suggestions would be welcome.

As far as other news in and around my household, my kids have only 2 weeks of summer vacation left. Where did the summer go? I have to get some school clothes for C. A. can wait a bit because he does not go back until the second week of September. Besides, since it is still so warm out, they will most likely go in t-shirts and shorts for the first weeks. I noticed a few acorns the other day on the ground. You know what that means. FALL.

Ravelry...

2007-08-10T22:43:00.000-04:00

O.k...it does not looks so bad...I am getting there.

You signed up on June 14, 2007
You are #9196 on the list.
864 people are ahead of you in line.
15207 people are behind you in line.
34% of the list has been invited so far

Mail call

2007-08-08T18:23:00.000-04:00

I have patiently waited for my anniversary present to arrive in the mail for about 8 weeks. Today was the day the package arrived in my mailbox. I am lucky to receive these great custom crochet hooks by Sonshapes. They are made with ebony wood, and engraved with my name on them. The picture to the left is the engraved box the hooks came in. The hooks are super light weight and are super smooth. I want to start collecting hooks. Well, technically I have already started. There are so many unique ones out there made out of many kinds of materials. I already own a metallic set by Boye (my first set), a Soft Touch set by Clover, and a nice set of Bamboo hooks that I purchased off of ebay. My mother-in-law bought me a Skacel Addi in a size J, and I bought myself a birch hardwood Brittany hook in size I. It is funny how I decide on using a particular brand by the type of material that I am working with. For example, I like to match my bamboo hooks with a bamboo yarn. Although sometimes a yarn might be too slick to use with the bamboo hooks. It really all depends. Thank you honey for a wonderful nine years!

If you look hard enough, you can see my name engraved.

A night with the Yarn Harlot

2007-08-03T21:24:00.000-04:00

Last night, I had the rare opportunity to listen to Stephanie Pearl-Mcphee aka The Yarn Harlot in Burlington, Massachusetts! She was a riot. I laughed harder than I did in a long time! It took me about an hour and a half to get there (lots of traffic), but it was well worth it. I got there almost an hour in a half early...but it was good because I got to get a good seat, and one of the first tickets to be called for the book signing. I felt a little weird pulling out my crochet in a room full of knitters, but I did. I even met some of the people around me like Kim. Kim teaches 3rd grade, and gave me a little lesson on knitting. Hmmmmmm....maybe some day I'll get it. Thanks Kim!

As I was standing in line, I met Jess, one of the creators of Ravelry. She was so sweet and told me to have some more patience about getting my invite to Ravelry. She said they are trying real hard to get things going. She was so excited talking about the new site. It makes me want even more to get my invite. A couple of more weeks.

I bought Stephanie's newest book on CD. I figured that way, I can listen as I crochet. I had her sign her Knitting Rules book. I said to her when I finally made it to the head of the line...."before you sign this, you must know that I am a crocheter...you know, one of THOSE people!" She laughed and said...."hey, we're cousins!" I had such a good night! And remember, the Harlot does not knit for crack hoes!

Yarn Review: Bernat Alpaca Natural Blends

2007-07-31T19:56:00.000-04:00

When I went to my local craft store last night (to buy the correct size for my bamboo purse handles) I noticed some new yarns. I have been eyeing Bernat Alpaca Natural Blends online, and was pleasantly surprised to find it. It retails for $3.99 usd so I bought a skein and decided that I would review it for you all.

Basic Yarn Information

Fiber content: 70% Acrylic/ 30% Alpaca
Skein yardage/weight: 120 yds/100g/ 3.5 oz
Recommended hook size/gauge: 6mm US J How many ply?: 2 ply
Manufacturer's suggested retail price and/or actual price: $3.99

Care of Yarn
Washing: Hand wash
Drying: Air dry flat
Any special requirements:
How does yarn/project look/handle after being cleaned?: Seemed to shed less
Did the color run when washed?: No

Yarn Characteristics
How easy is it to crochet with? It was easy to work with, slight splittage

What about ripping out? It was forgiving after ripping out
Any stretch? yes
Does it produce fuzz/lint? A Lot
Does it pill? N/A
How does it wear? Nice drape
How does it look crocheted? Great stitch definition

First Impressions

According to Knitter's Review, alpaca fiber is reportedly softer than cashmere. And at first touch, I agree. It is a very soft yarn. Alpaca is a hollow fiber, similar to angora, making it far warmer than wool. It is available in 8 color ways. I used the a light pink color called Peony. I picked a light color because from first glance, I noticed that the darker colors seemed to shed.

Crochet swatch
I swatched using Clover Touch hook in size J in a single stitch. The swatched worked up easily and moved softly through loop after loop. I did notice how it shed. Of course I was wearing a black shirt. By the time I was done with the swatch, it looked like I was covered in long cat hairs. It also made my nose itch immensely.

I washed the swatch in cold water and some baby soap. I noticed as soon as the swatch got wet, the hairs became even more loose. After I blocked and dried the swatch, I noticed a dramatic decrease with the shedding. It still remained intensely soft.

Conclusion

After I experienced the intense shedding. I really began to dislike this yarn. I really wanted to like it...thought it would make a great scarf, since it is so soft. But after the shedding, I concluded that it would not make a nice scarf accessory since it would probably ruin your shirt with hairs. After I washed the swatch and it dried, I began to change my mind. Washing did decrease the shedding which made me like the yarn once again. It is my first time working with Alpaca....and could not imagine how much more it would have shed if it was more of an alpaca blend than acrylic. I have to say, it was one of the softest yarns I have worked with to date. I would buy this kind of yarn again, but I just would not wear black :)

More reviews to come in the next days....

Crochet Revolution

2007-07-29T22:11:00.000-04:00

I have read many times about how when a new book launches the author does a book signing at either a local yarn store, or even a local book store. The majority of these books are knitting books. But recently I found out that WEBS (America's Yarn Store) is hosting Kim Werker's book launch of Crochet Me: Designs to Fuel the Crochet Revolution. This is exciting folks. I will have an opportunity to see live finished objects that are in the book, meet the author, who is the new editor of Interweave Crochet and the online magazine Crochet Me, and get my book signed. It is also an interactive talk, so I need to bring a hook and some yarn. I am also siked because I have been wanting to go to Webs for some time now. It is located in Northampton, Massachusetts (about 2 1/2 hours from where I live). Webs is about a 5,000 square feet building of yarn, yarn, yarn, patterns, accessories, weaving looms and much much more. I was planning on going out there this past May to visit their tent sale, but it just did not work out. So, now I am planning on going there in October. The leaves will be changing by then so the foliage will make it a beautiful ride out. We will make it a family affair. There is the Eric Carle museum (author of The Very Hungry Caterpillar) so they will be all set while I have some crochet fun!

So, it will back to reality tomorrow, as my husband will be going back to work after a week of vacation. As far as my crochet, I finished another two washcloths, and I am almost finished my Fat Bottom Bag. I need to buy smaller handles for the bag. When I was making it, I did not realize that it would turn out as small as it did...so unfortunately I bought handles that are way too big. I am hoping I will be able to find smaller handles tomorrow. I am planning on listening to a couple of knitting podcasts while crocheting something mindless......like maybe another washcloth :)

Bath Mitt

2007-07-26T19:20:00.001-04:00

Yay....I am so proud of my first "mitten" I actually made a thumb!! It is also full of decreases and shaping. I have never had to sew a seam until this mitten. This is a bath mitt made out Sugar n' Cream twist with a single stitch. It will go with my collection of wash cloths. I am thinking this would make a nice gift with some washcloths and some soaps in a basket for someone. Or even a baby shower gift with some baby wash and baby powder. The possibilities are endless. This makes me sooooo excited for my fall crocheting. Do you know what this means? I will be able to make myself a pair of mittens. I have already started looking for the perfect yarn. Check out this review by Clara Parkes of Knitter's Review. This review makes me want to order the $45 minimum to qualify for free shipping at Knit Picks. I am thinking this would be perfect for some mittens....what do you think? Just thinking about ordering yarn makes me giddy. Ah, how can I be thinking of wool mittens in this 90 degree day here in the New England?

Family Fun

2007-07-25T23:14:00.000-04:00

On Tuesday, our family decided to go on a fun adventure at Canobie Lake Park in Salem, New Hampshire. It is only about an hour or so away from our home. It was a perfect day! We had beautiful weather, not too hot, but warm enough so everyone could enjoy the water park. We had a $40 lunch of burgers, dog, fries and onion rings at a diner inside the park. The following pictures shows how much fun the kiddos had.

And as we were exiting the park, we noticed this beautiful manarch butterfly. My youngest wanted to keep it.

As far as my crocheting...I started another washcloth made out of Peaches & Cream in yellow. More to come....

Washcloths

2007-07-22T13:10:00.000-04:00

This is what I have been working on lately for a mindless project that works up quickly and gives some sense of completeness and accomplishment. I was wondering what I could do with all of the great cotton that I received from my summer cotton swap partner. I asked for single colored ones, so I could test out different kinds of cotton brands. But, there is not enough for a project like a hat or something. Dishcloths and washcloths are a perfect project for these skeins of cotton!!!!!!! The one on the right is made from the new Sugar and Cream twists. I have never made them before. I got the pattern from here. The next picture shows some great stitch definition that makes for some great texture perfect for a dab of shower jel! The red one is being made out of Peaches & Cream. It is also a very portable project that I actually brought it with me Friday to the kids swimming lessons at the pond. I only got a little sand on it.

Ravelry

2007-07-20T01:36:00.000-04:00

How can I explain Ravelry? It is a new website for crochers and knitters to organize their projects, keep track of stash and get to know others in the craft. It is still in its beta stage, which simply means it is not a public website yet. They are working through many bugs and issues still. You need to sign up and then they will invite you when they are ready to accept new people. I have been patiently awaiting my invite. Today I checked out the website to see if there is any updates. You can now look upo the position on where you are in the list. Get this....here is my stats

I signed up on June 14, 2007
I am # 9196 on the list
3080 are ahead of you in line
9540 people are behind you in line
32% of the list has been invited so far

Looks like I will be waiting another 5 or 6 weeks at least. But, from what I hear, it is well worth the wait!

Blessed with the best

2007-07-18T22:21:00.000-04:00

Warning...This post is image heavy!!!

The mailman left a package waiting on my front porch this afternoon. I could not believe it, but my summer cotton swap package arrived already. (Thanks for the priority shipping!) Mary Jo (aka Tampa Doll) from Crochetville really did out did herself with my package. I am overwhelmed with her thoughtfulness. As I opened my package, my boys were looking over my shoulder to see what I received. The first bag was labeled "For the Boys". She filled a bag with lollipops and crocheted snakes and ant and a spider. Cameron exclaimed "Wow...she really crochets good!" They were thrilled. I am touched that she thought about my kids. Note: The kids went to sleep with their creatures :)

Then...I got to my stuff!!!! I first found this little crocheted doll. Isn't she so cute?

Lilacs are my favorite flowers...cardinals remind me of my grandfather and the G-I-N-A necklace is such a cute touch. As I continued on...I found some lovely, lovely cotton yarn in the greatest colors. I received 2 Sugar 'n Cream Denim Twists, 2 Sugar 'n Cream natural twists,1 Sugar n' Cream Crafter's Cotton, 3 Peaches & Creamin Pink Lilacs, 1 Peachs & Cream in each of the following colors: Yellow, Daisy Ombre, White, Lilac Ombre, Red and Baby Green. 2 Bernanat Cool Crochet inTie Dye Shades, Bernant Dewdrops in white, and a huge 1 pound Peaches & Cream in purple/white.

And it does not stop there.... I got a booklet of dishcloth patterns, Hooked on Crochet Magazine, Tear off Patterns from Peaches & Cream, An Elmore- Pisgah Catalog, and an Almond Joy/Mounds cookie recipie...YUM. Aren't I a lucky girl?Thank You so much Mary Jo...this has been awonderful first swap experience.

Fat Bottom Bag

2007-07-16T20:27:00.000-04:00

About a week ago I decided to make my first crocheted bag. I decided to make the Fat Bottom Bag in the Happy Hooker Stitch n' Bitch book by Debbie Stoller. The pattern called for Lion Brand's Cotton...but I ended up buying Lion Brand's Cottonease in punch.

After picking out the perfect yarn, I had to find the pefect fabric to line the bag. I found this...

Isn't it just perfect? It matches almost perfectly. Last night, I measured the fabric and pinned the lining in the bag. Tonight I will attempt to sew in the lining. I have not picked up a needle and thread since 7th grade home economics class. My mom gave me a refresher course on the whip stitch. We shall see what happens.

I signed up for Summer Cotton Swap at Crochetville. I have a super partner from Florida. The requirement for the swap is to buy $25 worth of cotton or cotton blends and send it to our partner by August 8th. I purchased some yummy yarns and packed up the package and sent it out this past Friday. I added some extra goodies in the package...but I can't reveal those quite yet. I am so excited to receive my package. I am eagerly awaiting and stalking the postman daily!!!!!

To blog or not to blog

2007-07-16T01:44:00.000-04:00

I have recently become a big fan of crochet, knitting and any type of fiber blogs. I look foward to reading them daily and following along the bloggers adventures and life musings. I have always wanted a blog, but quite frankly, did not know what to say. I have finally come to a conclusion that I need a blog to show off my WIP (work in progress), WIM (works in mind) and FO (finished objects). So, introducing my new blog. Sit back, grab a cuppa and enjoy. Follow me as I take you along on my fiber journey and random ramblings about life.