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When Expectations Let You Down - Crochet Rage 02

2012-02-03T17:10:00.000-08:00

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My Crochet Related Pet Peeve - Crochet Rage 01

2012-01-27T06:26:00.001-08:00

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Fairy Doll Amigurumi - January Pattern of the Month

2012-01-26T20:32:00.000-08:00

Materials Needed: W.W. Banana Cream, Aran, Baby Pink (used sport,but WW will work), and Lavender Yarn (use whatever colors you wish) / 10 mmBlack Onyx Eyes / Pink Embroidery Thread / White Sewing Thread / White Felt /Tapestry Needle / Sewing Needle / Pins / Stitch Marker / White Pipe Cleaners /F Hook

Abbreviations Used: BEG(beginning), CH (chain), SC (single crochet), ST (stitch), SC2TOG (decrease bytwo stitches), SC3TOG (decrease by three stitches), MC (magic circle/magicadjustable ring), SLPST (Slipstich)

Head:

Round 1:         6SCin MC
Round 2:         2SCin each ST around. (12)
Round 3:         SC1, 2SC in next ST around. (18)
Round 4:         SC2,2SC in next ST around. (24)
Round 5:         SC3,2SC in next ST around. (30)
Round 6:         SC4,2SC in next ST around. (36)
Round 7-9:      SCin every ST around. (36)
Round 10:       SC4,SC2TOG. (30)
Round 11:       SC3,SC2TOG. (24)
Round 12:       SC2,SC2TOG. (18)
Round 13:       SC1,SC2TOG. (12) At this point you shouldprobably snap the eyes in and embroider your mouth and begin stuffing the head.
Round 14:       SC2TOGaround. (6) Fasten off and leave a tailto sew head on later.

Body:
Round 1:         10SCin MC.
Round 2:         2SCin each ST around. (20)
Round 3:         SC1,2SC in next ST around. (30)
Round 4 – 6:   SCin each ST around. (30)
Round 7:         SC3,SC2TOG in next ST. (24)
Round 8 – 10: SCaround. (24)
Round 11:       SC3,SC2TOG(which leaves one stitch left, just SC in it). (20)
Round 12 – 14: SC around. (20)
Round 15:       SC2,SC2TOG. (15)
Round 16 – 18: SC in each ST around. (15)
Round 19:       SC1,SC2TOG around. (10)
Round 20:       SC3TOG,SC in next 4ST, SC3TOG. (6) Fasten offand hide end in the body.   Stuffbody.

SEW HEAD TO BODY

Arms (make two):

Round 1:         6SCin MC.
Round 2:         SC2,1SC in next ST around. (9)
Round 3-4:      SCaround. (9) Stuff the hand.
Round 5:         SC1,SC2TOG around. (6)
Round 6-13:    SCaround. (6) Fasten off and leave atail.   Take a white pipe cleaner and cutit to fit in the arm only.   Do not cutit to fit the length of the arm and hand.  Bend the ends of the pipe cleaner up and twist, so they do not pokethrough the yarn. Put in each arm.

Legs (make two):

Round 1:         6SCin MC.
Round 2:         2SCin each ST around. (12)
Round 3:         SC1,2SC in next ST around. (18)
Round 4 - 7:    SCaround. (18)
Round 8:         SC1,SC2TOG. (12)
Round 9 -12:   SCaround. (12)
Round 13:       SC1,SC2TOG. (8)
Round 14 - 22: SC around. (8)

Elvin Ears:     DONOT TURN!

Row 1:             6SC in MC, CH1, turn.
Row 2:             SCacross, CH1, turn.
Row 3:             Scacross, add an extra ST at end, SC in ST of previous row, and back down thewrong side of the work, up the side of the rows and join to the 1^stSC of Row 3 with a SLPST. Fasten off andleave a tail for weaving in.

SEW ARMS, LIMBS, AND EARS TO BODY

Shirt:

Front and Back (make two):
Row 1:             CH7, SC in 2^nd CH fromhook and across. (6)
Row 2:             SC across, CH1, turn. (6)
Row 3:             SC2TOG, SC in next 2ST, SC2TOG, CH1,turn. (4)
Row 4 – 7:       SCacross, CH1, turn. (4)
Row 8:             SC across, adding an extra ST atend, SC down the side and around, SLPST to BEG ST of Row 8.   Pin the front and back pieces to the body ofthe doll.   Taking a long piece of babypink yarn, lace up the sides of the front and back pieces (much like you wouldwith a shoe).   Tie a bow at the end andcut off excess yarn.

Dress:

Row 1:             CH30,SC in 2^nd CH from hook and across, CH1, turn.
Row 2-3:         SCacross, ch1, turn. Fold in half, andSLPST the piece shut.   Fasten off andhide ends. Add fringe around the rim ofthe dress.

Hair Instructions:       I added hair muchlike you would add fringe to a scarf.  To see how I added hair, please visit this website à   http://amigurumipatterns.blogspot.com/2008/10/how-to-add-hair-to-your-amigurumi.html

For added cuteness, you can do up the hair of the doll. I did a french braid with just the topportion. What might help is looking updifferent hair styles and/or googling “fairy” images. Use your noodle and be creative!

WINGS:

Print out the patternfor the wings. Image is below.
Cut wing shape out ofpaper.
Pin to felt.
Cut out felt wing.(MAKE FOUR TOTAL)
Sew along edges,leaving a big enough hole to turn inside out.
Turn inside out.
Stuff.
Sew up hole.
Sew to back of dollas seen in picture below.

WING PATTERN:

Click to open up in a new window and print it out.

Note: If for some reason this does print out really small or large, please adjust your printer settings to print “original size”.

Say NO to SOPA and PIPA (or whatever else they call it)

2012-01-18T11:44:00.000-08:00

Do the AMERICAN thing and oppose SOPA, PIPA, or whatever name the Senate/Congressmen who composed this strike against our freedom name this bill!

If this bill ever passes, it would take away many websites, like Etsy, that provide income for families.

- Not to mention, it's just stands against everything our country represents.

Sign the Google petition:
https://www.google.com/landing/takeaction/

Contact your local representative:
http://writerep.house.gov/writerep/welcome.shtml

List of Goals For Myself:

2011-12-07T08:21:00.001-08:00

Remake angel fairy doll.
Take new pictures of Sally the Snail.
Find other things to stock my store with.
Design an amigurumi for my year of amigurumi challenge.

Noah's Third Birthday!

2011-11-15T08:46:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was my son's third birthday. Noah, Robert, and I went to the zoo on a Monday. In Toledo, residents with a Lucas County address on their driver's license can get into the zoo for free from 10am-Noon.

This time we got to see the polar bears up close and it was amazing to see an animal that huge. Noah absolutely loved the bears. He didn't quite get animals like the seals and hippos, but I can understand why a three year old wouldn't notice them.

We then went into the aquarium becuase it was starting to rain outside. I love to see all the different fish, and I take my time; however, my son decided to run to every tank and squeal "Fish!" My husband didn't mind chasing him, or atleast, I think he didn't! I had to much fun with this goramy who liked to intimidate me by opening his mouth and shaking his head. He had to be the ugliest thing I ever saw, but it was funny how this fish was acting.

The funny fish.

I got to see my sea horses and I was happy! However, due to the rain most of the animals were hiding out in their enclosures. No lion, sloth bear, tiger, or snow leapord! Oh and the elephants were put away as well! Boo! But I still had fun seeing what I could see.

The "Horseies" according to Noah.

Noah got a gift from the toy shop and we got him lunch. Then we chilled out at home because we were all tired and cold!

Noah's Toy Snake, he never stops hitting me with it.

We got Noah a birthday pizza and some wings for us, and I made him a cake. I bought trick candles from Walmart, and the trick was on me, because the candles didn't work. Except for one!

These past two years with Noah were some of the greatest years of my life. He's my blessing and I love him so much.

My Blog Views - Just Like Seeing What Is Looked At

2011-11-03T12:21:00.001-07:00

Perhaps I should name all my amigurumi and other patterns with the letter "A" at the beginning. LOL.

Click on the image to enlarge it. My Adipose Fat Doll Amigurumi has gotten the most page views for my blog lol. Thanks all you Dr. Who lovers! :)

Confession: I Love Korean T.V. Shows, Like "Jewel In The Palace"

2011-10-14T09:44:00.000-07:00

One day I was looking through what was offered on Hulu and found this show and out of pure curiosity I decied to watch it. To my luck it was subtitled! These episodes can be up to 1hr and 20m long, which is long for a show, but it's not American, so it's expected.

I haven't quit watching this show since the first episode, I am hooked! It actually has a great plot line, character development, conflict, conflict resoultion, and sometimes the good guy dosn't win! It's about a girl who becomes a court lady in the kitchen of the King.

Did I mention that I love stories that involve details? This is one detailed story involving food, history, and fiction.

A good watch indeed. Think I will go see what's happening to Jang-Geum now.

Confession: I like Katy Perry and Chad Vader + Knitting Update

2011-10-07T07:00:00.000-07:00

Ok, I admit, I do like Katy Perry! Not fond of her graphic songs, but the rest are great! :) Honestly, I don't have anything else to blog about, but I like watching videos lol... Yeah.

If you want to watch a funny web series, watch the series below.

I guess I should update you with a project or two. I choose one!

Gasp! A KNITTED SCARF FOR MYSELF.

Knitted fingerless gloves. For myself.

Noah's Scarf, made w/leftovers from my scarf/glove set.

Children with Disabilities

2011-09-28T07:32:00.000-07:00

This article really angers me! What in their right mind makes them think that it is alright to stick vinegar soaked cotton balls in the mouths of children? Why would they force children to ride treadmills even when they say they don't want to.

Oh my gosh, they wouldn't do this to non-handicapped children, and you know why? Because this is nothing short of bullying!

Pathetic adults, bullying children who can't stand for themselves. Jerks!

I don't understand why people do this? These children are not freaks, pariahs, or any less valuable than children without disabilities! They need more attention, but that is ok!

Do you realize that this is what you would do to people in the middle ages? Yeah, and I thought we lived in the 20th century where people understood how to deal with people who have disabilities.

Some people just need to shut up.

2011-09-26T10:34:00.000-07:00

Noah sporting his newest sleeper.

Wow. I am just sitting here thinking about the stuff I heard yesterday, from family members. Some people are so pathetic if all they can think about is how they can harm someone! Well, one more comment might lead me to the police.

Anyways, my dad has been in out of the hospital, when he left his home this past time, he had no vitals, but got revived. So yeah, if you are wondering what kind of stress I've had to deal with, that's it.

You know what? I am tired of stupid sh*t from people and it needs to stop. I guess sometimes you really can't be popular and just have to tell people they are dumb because they don't know they are.

This post is depressing. Just warning you.

2011-09-25T00:54:00.000-07:00

To much stress going on.

Can't go back to sleep at near 4am, because I am constantly thinking about stuff and getting depressed enough to think about writing a letter saying good bye. Then walk away and never come back. I know most people would say "What about this person?"   It must be bad when you are depressed enough to not care about them anymore.

My dad was put in the hospital, when he left his home, he had no vitals, but somehow he's alive. The people I am keeping in contact with (because I live 100 mile away) aren't really keeping me in the loop and the hospital kept me on hold for near 20 minutes before I gave up.

Why would this bother me considering that he was never part of my life growing up? Maybe because I have had to deal with so much death in the past few years, that anything close to it just bothers me. Don't want to deal with the issues that come with it, trying to figure out how to live without that person or how to cope with the sorrow.

And this is all over a person that everyone would tell me I shouldn't even care about.   That is what is confusing me.

Ontop of all this, I was working on someone's website, built it from scratch, just wanted to help the person out. They said they would pay me when they could, and after a year that never happened. Awhile ago I designed a custom graphic for someone who promised me compensation in the form of a gift card and that to has yet to be fulfilled.

So, I am no longer doing work for people unless they give me a deposit. Because I am a graphic designer, I sell digital art, paying me, is saying that you approve of my work, not just telling me "I like it." So far, there is one person I can trust to compensate me for my work. Thank you Bobby for being a woman of your word.

And now I feel sad again.   I feel like I reached my breaking point and broke. Oh and if you read this, I am not doing it for attention, I just need to let it all out.

Perhaps I should atleast try to get some sleep.

Sesame Street Spoofs Glee! FREAKING HILARIOUS.

2011-09-22T08:04:00.000-07:00

Honestly, I do watch the television show Glee, was a skeptic of it at first, but then I got sucked into the awesomeness of the musicals. Oh and Sue Sylvester is epic with her character. I can't wait to see what the newest season brings as far as new characters and story arcs.

The season premier was interesting, Quinn turned goth/skank/punk - not sure with her. Saw the girl on the right in the first episode and flipped out b/c she was cool! Don't like how they protrayed her on the reality show; however, she's a great singer!

Samuel, Alex, Damian, Lindsay

The first guy (Samuel) and the one guy next to the girl (Damian - he's from Celtic Thunder) won the show with a prize of seven episodes! Then they shocked everyone and gave the runner ups two episodes (Alex and Lindsay)! And what do you know? There were some contestants that also got some contracts from what I read on the internet. One of them quit the reality show because it just wasn't "for him". Mm, hmm. Whatever.

Samuel is awesome; however, Alex (the guy with the scarf) has such a wonderful range! He can go from soprano to baratone (correct me if I am wrong). He reminded me of Kurt on the show! Can't wait to see how they fit all these people in.

Dig This Chickadee

2011-09-17T10:15:00.001-07:00

This girl has an amazing voice and sing some of these songs better than the originals. Ok, well in other words, she dosn't butcher the music.

WTF Was I Thinking? Worst Movie Ever.

2011-09-14T10:49:00.000-07:00

Warning: If You Love Twilight, then turn back, you have been warned.

Yesterday I was looking for something to watch, so I turned on "Twilight" the first movie of the series. It stars Bella and Edward (a vampire). So I watched it and frankly, I wasn't impressed at all, infact, I wish I hadn't wasted my time!

Here is my sarcastic summary.

Bella moves from Arizona, goes to school, meets pedophile vampire, stalks him, he stalks her, and in two seconds they fall in love. He meets Bella's dad, she meets his "family" and almost dies. Edward has to save her by sucking venom out of Bella, or else she becomes a vampire. He saves her and then she wakes up in a hospital and her mom tells her she just fell down the stairs.

So after much disgust, I thought "Perhaps it gets better in the second movie." Then Edward dumps Bella, telling her "I shouldn't have let this go on for so long." Um ok, what the hell is wrong with you? She gets all sick in the middle of a forrest, gets carried out of the woods by Indian Fabio boy, and then falls in love with her other friend Jacob.

This would make sense if they established Jacob's character alot better, like give him more screen time, or atleast some backstory. When he cut his hair, I didn't even recognize who he was. Anyways, when she was attacked by that Jamaican vampire, and rescued, I just couldn't watch anymore.

Sigh. You know, this had the potential to be a very good movie; however, I think the actors killed it. "Interview With A Vampire," a movie I watched when it first came out, was much more enjoyable.

My other beef, there is only one scene in the first movie explaining Edwards origin as a vampire. There is no story showing how he got to the hospital after being sick. As far as I am concerned, it would have made more sense to write him as a brain dead zombie, because I couldn't tell he was a vampire if I knew nothing about this series.

Or it was just the horrid acting. I am not excusing anything.

A Postcard ...

2011-09-07T11:42:00.000-07:00

I did this in the size of a postcard, so you could print it out and make it into one. I think I might do this from now on. It helped me express my need to create.

Age of Empires Online

2011-09-02T10:59:00.000-07:00

My Greek city, with Egypt Sphinx

So I've been playing this game called "Age of Empires Online," since this past November when it was still in beta testing. Never before was I that into an Age of Empires game, infact, I only playled it because Robert (redhrts) was into this game, and I wanted to have something in common with my boyfriend (at the time).

Funny how things go, I ended up going further in the game then he did, mainly because he has a job and I don't (well a paid job).

The basic "jist" of the game, you are god and you get to build an economy and army, then go out and smash the crap out of your enemies. It can be epic, it can be humiliating, and it can cause others to cuss you out like a sailor who just got spurned.

The game is free to play; however, the free to play aspect is basically a glorified demo, and you don't get much but some quests and pvp. The quests offer up rewards, that have items in that only "premium" players can use.

My Egypt Civ.

The pricing isn't that bad, it's basically a "buy only what you want" scheme. So I bought an Egypt city, and I like it, infact, I played it back in the beta. Right now there is only Greek and Egypt to play, but they are awesome. They offer a "season pass" which is 100.00 for any content that comes out within the next six months. That comes to 16.99 a month, which is a decent price, it's cheaper than buying one civ for $20.

I don't really want all that crap, so I just bout the Egypt civ. Well anyways, that is what I have been doing for awhile now.

cough knitting * a cough scarf... HACK... Sorry.

2011-09-01T09:21:00.000-07:00

TP Cozies for Charity Craft Show?

Thought I would try my hand at kniting a scarf with a pattern that is a little more advanced then just knit, purple, and turn. LOL. Now it's turning out interesting, just going to make it a scarf that I use my Simply Soft scraps on.

Oh by the way, Simply Soft sucks when knitting, and just as much when crocheting. I really need to start on some things to donate to this charity craft show in November.

The Comments People Make

2011-08-26T19:40:00.000-07:00

How Noah fell asleep.

Alot of times, I sit and wonder if I am doing a good enough job raising my son? I have strong convictions about what kind of person I send out into our society. I want him to grow up and be a contributor, not a deconstructor. Then came depression, because I still can't figure out how to measure my ability to be a good mother. I know it's unfair to compare myself to anyone, but I can't help myself, I want to know if I am doing things right.

I took my son to McDonald's down the street from where I live, because it has an indoor playground and I thought he would love to play there. He knew what he was looking at the second we walked in the door; however, I wanted him to have lunch first. When I was filling up my drinks, an employee made a comment to me about my son. "He looks like he's going to be a drop out some day." I kind of acted like I didn't hear that and just filled my drinks up and went and sat down.

Wow. If she thought that about my kid, then she probably feels the same way about her own. How sad, and sad for her kids. I honestly think this is one lazy attitude to take, because when your a parent, your building a person one word at a time.

Everything you say over your child, enforces what you believe about him/her and then they believe what you say about them. People used to tell me I was stupid, and I believed them, and ended up struggling with my self-esteem, and confidence. I have fought all my life to get to this point, and I had to do it all by myself. Well, I am not going to put my son through the same battle.

I am going to tell him that he is a good person, an intelligent man, and a blessing.

I believe in God, and I certainly belive in intelligent creation, because according to his word, I was created in His image. So why would I speak words over my son's life that cause him to cover himself in crap that makes him look less and less like the original creation he is?

No. I am not going to answer to God one day about why I mucked up his beautiful creation. Well, enough for now and I can certainly stop being so hard on myself now, because I can see the point God taught me through this situation. Hope makes a difference.

Don't Call My Name Roberto... Random Blog TIme

2011-08-25T19:31:00.000-07:00

What would happen if I just wrote an entire blog of random thoughts? And posted some pictures somewhere up in this blog to make it interesting? You might get this hot mess.

GLEEK HERE, GLEEK THERE, GLEEK EVERYWHERE

So I've been excited to see "Glee" come back for a third season and I've been watching the producer's reality show "The Glee Project". They had four contestants for the final show and the two top contenders got seven episodes and the others got two episodes. So yeah, nobody lost on that season finale! While I was reading on the internet I found out that one of the contestants that up and quit, is being recruited to act on the show. What the heck? Why you take a quiter Ryan? Why?

DONATING "CRAP" TO CHARITIES

Do you donate stuff to charity that you crocheted, which you think is not your best work? I am making this afghan, well, it's done, just gotta tuck in the ends. Went to do that yesterday and saw a block in the middle of my afghan had a hole in it, from where the end of a row seperated from the original CH3. I fixed it, had to put a not in it to stablize it (yeah, I just committed my pet peeve), and then sew it back together. I used to not know how to tuck in the ends when I was learning how to crochet, and I regret that, but hey, the afghan still looks really good!

I am going to donate it, and would not let it go if it looked bad. I'll post a picture of it later. Don't have one now.

I agree with my friend about sending bad work off to people who don't have much. Why would you give someone having a crummy time, some piece of junk? My thought is, would it really make them happy? Send them something you made with love, and it will be a blessing to them, not a "Ok, yeah, this is cool." *Toss a side.*

WHO IS THIS AWESOME CHRISTINA GRIMMIE?

Just recently discovered this lady, and she is a great singer! I love her voice and her vocal range is just great. Why can't she be on Glee? :)

Listen to it, love it. Yeah. Ok I am done blogging, time go sleep now. Tank you (misspelled on purpose).

Only Just A Dream...

2011-08-18T11:10:00.001-07:00

I Love Music By Mat Kearney

2011-08-11T07:59:00.000-07:00

It's weird who's music I am beginning to like...

2011-08-09T16:17:00.001-07:00

Pregnancy Rant - NO I am NOT Pregnant

2011-08-09T16:08:00.000-07:00

Oh my Lord, I've seen the word "preggers" and "preggo" to many times today, it's become very annoying. I guess I feel as if pregnancy is being trivialized into something that is "cute". Oh my gosh there isn't anything cute about it. It is the most beautiful thing a woman can do!

Quit trivializing this, please!

Music For the Mundane Monday

2011-08-08T09:13:00.000-07:00

Another lovely song that I discovered while watching "The Glee Project," on Hulu.com! I love songs that tell a story about the artist's life or a memory. It makes it so much more interesting. It's called using your brain instead of vomitting out the same crap all the time and calling it a "song".

Music Monday on Friday, B/C It's My Blog

2011-08-05T12:33:00.000-07:00

One of my new favorite songs! :)

Family?

2011-08-04T12:50:00.000-07:00

As I sit here and look at my son, I see such a happy little fellow and wonder what the hell is my problem? Why can't I be freaking happy? What is making me depressed on and off so much. I can't help but see what I missed out on when I look at my son. You know, being able to give him what I missed has helped me feel fulfilled.

My family isn't a "touchy feely" group of people, i.e. they don't hug, they just talk and buy you stuff. So when I started going to church, everyone creeped me out because they hugged me so much; however, I needed that love.

God has revealed some hard things to me, and honestly, I am having trouble coping with reality. Perhaps that is why I listen to music so much, so I can just drift off to some reality where I am in control and everyone can be happy or sad if I want them to be.

While my grandma was in Florida, she was talking to my sister about my mother and how she would joke around with grandpa about my mother being switched at the hospital. My sister didn't think this was funny and neither did I. Honestly, what did she think when she mentioned this?

In all honesty, my sister did tell her off, and she deserved it. Just because your old, dosn't mean you get away with being a cruel person.

But you know what? I couldn't help but think if she hated my mom so much, then what does she think about my sister and I? If she dosn't love my mom, how can she love MY mother's children?

And this is what is bothering me and causing me to lash out at other people. This is also the reason why I have a hard time even picking up the phone to attempt to call my grandma. Which I haven't done but once.

Can't handle the stress of dealing with her, so I am just going to act as if she isn't there. Atleast I have Myra and Mom, the only people who understand what I go through, because they are in it too.

And do you know what playing favorite's with kids does to them? It leads to the one that isn't favored, feeling as if they are NEVER good enough for ANYONE or ANYTHING. It gives them an inferiority complex and it stays in their life until they have to fight it away for themselves.

Perhaps this is why I have always felt ignorant, not good enough for people, unvalued, and unlovable. Perhaps.

Can you blame me? I am just trying to find an answer to my question at the beginning of this blog.

Adventures With Doilies...

2011-08-02T10:39:00.000-07:00

Doily I sent to Kairi

Same Doily As Above, different color. Just starched.

More than Metaphysical!

2011-07-21T06:28:00.000-07:00

Finally a Christian song that talks about the miracles of God. I LOVE Tait being part of Newsboys now. He's a good addition to the band.

Swap I Received

2011-07-20T15:22:00.000-07:00

Got a good start on my doily, hope my swap partner Kairi likes it. it's a vintage pattern I haven't done yet. I usually go for newer patterns; however, some recent project listings on Ravelry convinced me to do the pattern.

Woman Walks After 20+ Years

2011-07-19T07:06:00.000-07:00

Some funny stuff lol.

2011-07-15T08:10:00.000-07:00

I watch a show called "The Glee Project" it's a reality show dedicated to auditioning new people for Glee. One of the girls had to "sing for her life" a song by Carrier Underwood. So I went on YouTube and saw the video. It was kind of hilarious.

Some Music For Monday

2011-07-11T20:42:00.000-07:00

This is a new vid from a new artist that I just started listening too. Enjoy.

Wow Wednesday!

2011-07-06T06:41:00.000-07:00

Music Monday!

2011-07-04T13:41:00.001-07:00

Am I Normal? Therapy for myself, by myself.

2011-07-01T12:48:00.000-07:00

So freaking tired of things happening and it's getting to me somewhat. Recently, I've been fighting this whole being depressed about anything and everything.   Then if that dosn't work, it's something else, like feeling like a bad mom or wife.   What is wrong with me? Why the hell do I worry so much about everything?

Can someone tell me how the hell to stop being so hard on myself?   Perhaps I feel disappointed in myself for not living up to my potential when I was younger. Now that I am older, I have so much more confidence than before.   Contributing factors, including a good church, family, and a husband who dosn't let me get away with ignorance (EVER).

Guess I will keep going through the same crap until I learn to grow immunity to it!   Good, then I wont teach it to my son.

Oh my son, my love, you have no idea how precious you are to me.   Did anyone ever tell you that having a child would cause you to examine your own life, grow a concious, and spine? Nope, it's a hard lesson, but it's the most helpful one.

Only wish I would have let some people in my life know the truth.

Sure, what the hell!

Drunkard - you were a horrible step-father.
Uninterested - Isolating yourself from everyone mentally is not a healthy way of being a parent.
Pervert. - I feel sorry for how pathetic you are.
Cheater/Liar - You have all these beautiful things and you don't appreciate any of it.
Bully - For being the first person to show me what a bully really is.

You know what you've done and I want to tell you this. SCREW YOU. Thanks for being my inspiration to be a good person and not a loser like you.

No, I am not normal, nor do I ever want to be. It's sad, but I am one of the few who have decided to go against the norm of being a loser who openly aceccpts evil.

Mad World!

2011-06-27T09:03:00.000-07:00

Song of the day for me! Discovered this song on "The Glee Project".

Divine Appointments: How I Met Cindy Sumner's Mother

2011-05-28T17:36:00.000-07:00

Today I took my son and I to the grocery store (Walmart) and saw these delicious strawberries for $1.25 a box. Well, when I picked them up and smelled them, they had no sweet scent. Yes, I realize I look like an idiot sniffing a box of berries, but if they smell like nothing, then logic dictates they don't taste like anything. Atleast that is my logic.

So I decided against going to Monette's Market to get some real berries, but halfway down the street I realized I forgot to buy some stuff for lunch today and figured I could get some lunch meat from the market. There deli is much more delicious and cheaper. Wow. Big surprise. I step in the store, get my cart for Noah, who decides to try and nick a cherry. I told him no and he put it back. After I smelled my berries I went to the deli, got my number and waited.

My son does his usual magic, smiles and looks gosh darn cute. So this lady starts talking to me about him, asking what age he is. I guess her child was older, because she said "I miss that." I then told her that I miss him being a little newborn that didn't run away from me. Her reply just about floored me.

"My kid was murdered." It was noisy and I didn't quite hear it, but when she repeated the word, I got it quite clear. Well, I could have not said anything or given her a generic "I am sorry." But I am not sorry, I am in the same boat. It wasn't my child, it was my best friend.

So I opened up despite how much it sucks to go back to that memory. People who have suffered through the murder of a loved one don't always have the luxury of someone understanding their pain. But I did and I told her "I know what your going through." Then I told her my story and how the guy who murdered Jan got to trial SIX years later.

She told me that her daughter was found under six feet of water in an abandoned warehouse in Toledo (Elm Street).

It's so random to just tell someone about that, but I am glad she did, because there aren't many people who get the suffering of someone who has had a loved one murdered. I just hope that I helped her and wish I could have stayed in contact, but God will take care of her.

Nobody should have to lay their loved one to rest in a coffin and be able to see their bruises, and swollen body! NOBODY. I did. I will never forget what Jan looked like.

R.I.P. Cindy Sumner

Cupcakeombis & The Innocentz

2011-05-18T15:26:00.000-07:00

By Ivory Herman

Materials: For Cupcakeombi - Gray (I used Simply Soft), Sage (something pale), Pink for "cherry". For Innocentz - Brown, Blue Fun Fur (or whatever you have on hand that looks "innocent"), and Red for Cherry. Use whatever colors you desire. Red, Pink, Black embroidery floss. Three 9/10mm safety eyes (use an odd one for the zombie, if your anal like me, you will end up making two zombies just to have an even amount of eyes).

The Innocentz

R1: Using an E hook, 6SC in a Magic Circle
R2: 2SC in each ST around. (12)
R3: SC1, 2SC in next ST around. (18)
R4: In BLO, SC around. (18)
R5: SC around in each ST. (18)
R6: SC2, 2SC in next ST around. (24)

R7: SC around. (24) **I reccommend adding a round piece of cardboard to the bottom of the cupcake for stability.** Change to cake color. ATTACH SAFETY EYES around R6 & R7.

R8: Repeat round 7 in BLO. (24)
R9: SC3, 1SC in next ST around. (30)
R10: SC around. (30)
R11: Repeat R10. (30)
R12: SC3, SC2TOG. (24)
R13: SC2, SC2TOG. (18)
R14: SC1, SC2TOG. (12)
R15: SC2TOG around. (6) Fasten off, and stuff. You do not have to sew the hole shut. This is where the cherry will be placed later on.

Cupcakeombi

Fringe:
Attach frosting yarn to R4 with a SLPST, CH1, SC in same place. * DC in next ST, SC in next ST, SLPST in next ST* around and join to BEG CH1.

Cherry On Top:
R1: 6SC in MC.
R2: 2SC in each ST around. (12)
R3: SC around. (12)
R4: Repeate R3.

Assembley:
1. Sew cherry over hole of cupcake.
2. Embroider any stitches or mouths, go crazy, I did.
3. Hide all ends and enjoy your Cupcakeombis and Innocentz!

*Updated: 12/16/2011 - R7: "Chane" is supposed to read "Change". *

DPN - My derp moment.

2011-05-07T08:02:00.000-07:00

I bought a set of four double pointed knitting needles at Michael's in an attempt to learn knitting in rounds.... four in package, needed five.. what??? Guess I should have bought a bigger size to begin with.

Fail. Atleast I found some tutorials on YouTube that helped me learn with four needles instead of five.

The Toddler Files: "I can open doors now!"

2011-04-29T06:25:00.000-07:00

Note: If you can't see it properly, click on image and it will open in it's own window.

Some Encouraging Words...

2011-04-21T09:55:00.001-07:00

Mrs. Teaman,

Ps. 142:1-7 This is a psalm that I cherish in my heart. It was written by David, when he was in the cave as a prayer. I know it will comfort you, because it comforted me just to read its words. I love you as a teacher and a very close friend. All year you've been encouraging. This time is my chance to return the encouragement. I hope you have a good retirement, Mrs. Teaman, and a good life.

Prov. 3:16-17 "Long life is in her right hand, in her left hand are riches and honor. Her ways are pleasant ways and all her paths are peace." And my last word -- Prov. 17:22 "A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." You have a cheerful heart, so you can't have a crushed spirit, becaue you're full of God's wonderful love.

Prov. 11:16 " A kind-hearted woman gains respect." God said this, so it's true. Mrs. Teaman, you have all of my respect. I pray for all the teachers each night, that the blood of Jesus would be upon them, and I can see it all over your life.

With love,
Ivory

I wrote this letter when I was thirteen! This was a gift to my teacher who was retiring from teaching and moving to TN. She really was a great teacher and I managed to find her on Facebook awhile ago.

I guess she was going through her boxes and found this and decided to send it to me. The timing couldn't have been any better.

Funny how my encouraging words come back to make me encouaraged!

Breaking a cycle...

2011-04-15T09:04:00.000-07:00

Chose to break the cycle of hate,and bitterness that has had it's way.
They look for allies and alliances.
And all they do is award you their treasure,
their trash, their terror, their torment.

Forgive!
Yes, but do not forget their mistakes,
least you become the same person.
Who can't grow up,
who can't let go.

-Ivory Herman

People Who Aren't Helpless and those Enablers

2011-04-13T08:56:00.000-07:00

So I've decided that it is time to make the realization that some people are addicted to letting themselves be taken advantage of. This is a true statement, I learned this in college, when a professor talked about putting a mouse in an electrified T shaped maze. The mouse would continually go through electro-shock points to get to the cheese, even if it meant being hurt over and over.

Gratification is more important to the mouse then being hurt. The same thing is true for people who go back to abusive relationships. They are addicted to that gratification, and don't step back to see the whole picture. Why do you think so many women go back to abusive husbands? Because they get high off of kissing and making up!

Yes it is possible to be addicted to pain. It's especially hard when the person you go back to is enabeling your behavior (they are no better).

Here's the thing, don't let yourself become addicted to trying to save these people, they don't want it. Come to that conclusion and save yourself alot of heartache and pain. Instead of becoming depressed, like I was for years. It's so not worth it.

Pentagon and Hexagon Pattern

2011-03-24T07:14:00.000-07:00

Materials: W.W. Yarn (I used Red Heart), G Hook

Round 1: CH4, join to form loop.
Round 2: In loop, do *2SC, CH2* x5 (if doing hexagon x6), join to 1st SC.

Round 3: CH1, SC in same spot, SC in next ST. In CH2 spot, do SC,CH1,SC. *SC2, in corner do SC1,CH1,SC1* x4 (or x5 if doing hexagon)

This should lead to the shapes having a 1 1/8” side.

Dear Crochet:

2011-03-21T07:04:00.000-07:00

Star of David Dishcloth

There comes a time in a person's life when they realize they are just going through the motions and it's not a "real" thing. I just decided that I needed a little space, so I started to do a little knitting, and it was ok. I made a dishcloth on size 6 needles. The dishcloth came out ok, but it dosn't look spotless.

I am not quitting on you, just needed some space for a very short time. Thank you very much.

Mental Disorders/Illnesses

2011-03-09T07:55:00.000-08:00

I just can't take it anymore! It is not ok to make fun of ANY person with a mental illness or disorder. Even if they are celebrities like Charlie Sheen or Britney Spears, it is so juvenile of you to partake in this stupid behavior.

People should never feel shame for being sick!

I bet you would be really pissed off if I poked fun at your relative with major depression or your kid who has ADHD. But it's ok to make fun of someone who's in the public eye? B/C they are celebrities not human beings.

You, yeah, I use that tone for a reason. B/C it makes you concious of your actions. You know who YOU are.

Product Review: "The Crochet Dude" Yarn Cutter

2011-03-08T19:47:00.000-08:00

Armed with my 40% off coupon from Hobby Lobby's website, I ventured over to their store and checked out the yarn accessories section. I really wanted some new crochet hooks, but this yarn cutter got my attention. I see that some ladies use them to cut yarn, so I thought I would give it a try!

Honestly, I've never used these before and thought that it might be a bit convenient.

Here are some pros:
It's small and dosn't take up alot of space. You can loop some yarn into and tie it around your kneck. It's not akward to hold. The Crochet Dude approved it, and he's cool!

Some cons:
It shreads my yarn and dosn't make a clean cut, which makes it hard to thread a yarn needle. I ended up having to trim the yarn again. My other beef is the price of the cutter is $5.99 and that was before my discount.

Cut with tool.

Cut with scissors.

It's got one little notch and that is where the blade is, which is cool, b/c my son can't touch it; however, I don't think that little tiny blade is worth $5.99, which makes me think that I am paying for the name branded on it.

It's a neat little tool; however, my neat freak tendencies will probably go for the scissors b/c the cut looks neater.

How many of you readers out there use a yarn cutter? Does it do the same job for you? Let me know! :)

Mental Illness/Disorder Stigma

2011-03-02T06:32:00.000-08:00

Was watching Charlie Sheen on t.v. last night, for a few minutes, and heard the reporter mention him possibly being bipolar. He is a real sad person. All I want to say is shame on you ABC for putting that on the air.

Thanks for adding to the stigma against mental illnesses and disorders. It's hard enough for people to cope with them, let alone having people like him put on t.v. when he really desperately needs help.

It's called enabling ABC, not getting the "story" out. You don't care about him as human being b/c he's just there for your ratings.

Felt Donuts! :) Yummy.

2011-02-23T14:21:00.000-08:00

So I got bored today and decided that I wanted to do some different type of craft. After attempting to learn cro-hooking, I got bored real fast. Then I saw my nice stash of felt and after visiting a tutorial on YouTube (click here for the video tutorial), I ended up making a donut. Of course, I don't have a donut color, so white was my choice. Who cares?

I exercised my need to create. Heres a white donut, pink frosting, and sprinkles. Gotta have sprinkles, there cool.

Expectations of Intelligence

2011-02-17T10:23:00.000-08:00

Before my son was born I decided that I would tream as an intelligent being, even when he was just a newborn. Of course, he didn't know anything fresh out of the womb, but I know from experience that we fulfill our expectations uncounciously or not. If I believe I am going to fail at something, I will more than likely fail.

I tell my son he's important, that he's wanted, and that he is a smart person. I let him do things that reinforce that belief of mine.

This past Christmas I bought Noah an educational bath toy. A little bucket full of foam letters that stick to the wall in the bathroom. Pretty soon he started picking them up and telling me which letters they are.

Today I made flash cards out of printer paper and then wrote the alphabet out with markers in different colors. I was kind of surprised at how many he got right! He only missed 10 letters. For being two years old I find that pretty good. I find it amazing how much a child can learn in such a short period of time. I am not bragging to make other parents feel bad about there kids, just stating that my belief about expectations is a valid one indeed.

Gonna try going over the alphabet every day while he sits in his chair.

What Is Your Anthem?

2011-02-16T06:51:00.000-08:00

So I was watching Glee over on Hulu.com and the theme for their regionals contest was "Anthem" which according to Will Shuster is something that has to be epic and bigger than yourself. So what would be your anthem?

Yes, this is the song that Sue Sylvester suggested for the glee club anthem. It is "Sing" by My Chemical Romance. It's actually pretty awesome!

Sue also said my favorite line of the entire show, "you have more grease in your hair then the guy behind WikiLeaks!" Ya'll might not like Sue Sylvester, but darn it, she is epic!

Annoyed with Etsy Sellers

2011-02-12T06:29:00.000-08:00

I was asked to crochet two newborn cocoons for a friend of mine that is a photographer. So I went on Etsy.com and let her pick out what design she liked. She picked a really simple pattern and when I got to studying it, it’s just made with bulky yarn and a Q hook. Ok, but the whole thing is made of SC done in rounds. I can do that without needing to buy a pattern.

Plus I found a free one that is done with bulky yarn and SC in the round. So I got to reading this ladies listing and she said plainly “Do not sell items made from my patterns unless you buy a cottage license.” This license is a $50 fee that would allow you to sell items made with her patterns.

I can understand not selling her patterns, but I find it utterly ridiculous when there are free patterns of the same thing written by two different authors and both are made of SC in the round. ANYONE could make that up over and over again.

Why charge such a stiff fee??? Being a designer I can see how crazy this is, but someone who doesn’t know how to design stuff, would probably find this crazy too. They would probably shop somewhere else for a similar pattern.

Yes, I intend on making those newborn cocoons, and I will sell them, and NO I am not purchasing a pattern that anyone could do in their head.
Honestly, it’s kind of ridiculous what people want to charge for.

Wally and Pirate Penguin Pete TP COZIES
Recent Projects I finished.

Pineapple Doily

The Bikini Square - 8"

2011-02-01T10:39:00.000-08:00

Click to Enlarge

Special Stitches:

FPPOPCORN = A popcorn stitch done in the front post of the DC in previous round.
3HDC Popcorn = Popcorn stitch done with 3HDC.

R1: With H hook CH4, 15DC in 4th CH from hook, join to top of CH4.

R2: CH3, in same ST, DC, CH2, 2DC, *DC3, in next ST do 2DC,CH2,2DC* repeat 2 times, DC3, join to BEG CH3.

R3: SLPST into corner, CH3, DC, CH2, 2DC, *(CH1, FPTRC in DC of R1 –the one next to BEG CH3 -, CH11, SLPST in top of FPTRC, FPPOPCORN in 3rd DC from corner, DC, FPPOCORN, FPTRC in DC nearest corner of R2, CH11, SLPST in top of FPPOCORN, CH11) in corner 2DC, CH2, 2DC.* Do * -* 2x and (-) once, join to BEG CH3.

R4: SLPST to corner, CH3, DC, CH2,2DC (*DC in next 2ST, DC in CH spot, in BLO do the following ST - DC in FPTRC, in popcorn of previous round, in next DC, popcorn & next FPTRC. - DC in next CH spot and next 2ST* in corner 2DC,CH2,2DC) do (-) 2x and ** once.

R5: SLPST into corner, CH3, DC, CH2, 2DC (*DC, CH1, SKPST, YO pick up CH11 and DC going through loop [CH1, SKPST, DC in next ST] x4, CH1, SKPST, YO and pick up next CH11 and DC through loop, CH1, SKPST, DC) in corner 2DC,CH2,2DC* do ** two times and (-) once and join to BEG CH3.

R6: SLPST into corner, CH3, DC, CH3, 2DC, CH1, SKPST, DC in next DC, *([CH1, SKPST, DC in next spot] seven times, CH1, SKPST, DC in between next 2DC, CH1), SKPST, in corner 2DC, CH2, 2DC* do ** three times and (-) once.

R7: SLPST to corner, CH2, HDC, CH2, 2HDC (*CH1, [3HDC popcorn in next CH1 spot, CH1] ten times) 2HDC, CH2, 2HDC in corner. * do ** 3 times and (-) one time. Join to BEG CH2.

R8: SLPST into corner, CH2, HDC, CH2, 2HDC (in BLO HDC, HDC – not in BLO) across, in corners do 2HDC, CH2, 2HDC.

UPDATED: 11/03/2011 - R3 and R7.

Pineapple Sun Square (Multiple Designers)

2011-01-31T06:03:00.000-08:00

Pineapple Sun Square

Notes: 6” Square with a “G” Hook and WW yarn

Chain 4 and join to form a ring.

Rnd 1: Ch3 and work 15DC in ring. Join. (16dc)
Rnd 2: Ch3, 3 dc in same st, *ch 3, skip 3 sts, 4 dc* 3 times, ch 3, join to top of ch 3. (16dc, 4 ch3 spaces)
Rnd 3: Ch4 (counts as 1dc & ch1), 1DC, Ch1 in next 3sts. *+Ch2, in the 2nd st of next ch3, work 3dc cluster, ch2, 3dc cluster. Ch2, +. 1DC, ch1 in next 4sts.** work from *to** 2 more times, then +to+ once more. Ch2 and join to beginning ch3.
*note* When I joined in rounds 4 and 5 I joined as if I was doing a fpdc, since that st should have one in it anyway, so instead of joining in the top of the chain 3, I joined using a fpsc instead. I think it looks better. Let me know if you try this.
Row 4: CH3, BPDC in next 2dc , FPDC in next dc, CH2, in corner space (ch sp between the clusters) do 2DC, CH2, 2DC. Skip dc cluster and ch2 space. CH2 *FPDC in next dc, BPDC in next 2dc, FPDC, CH2, in corner do 2DC, CH2, 2DC*. Repeat *-* 3x, CH2, join to BEG CH3. (32DC including CH3 at BEG. 4 CH2 spots.)

Round 5: Ch 3 (counts as dc), BPDC in next 2dc, FPDC in next dc, Ch2, in next 2-ch space do 2dc, Ch2. In corner do 2dc, Ch2, 2dc. Ch2 in next 2-ch space do 2dc. *Ch2, FPDC in next dc, BPDC in next 2 dc, FPDC, Ch2, 2DC in next ch2 space. In corner do 2dc, Ch2, 2dc* Repeat from * to* 3 times, Ch2 and join to top of beginning Ch3. (48 dc, 20 Ch-2 spaces)

Round 6: SC in each st and ch space around, working 3 SC in each corner space.

This pattern is for personal use only. Do not reprint, copy, post to any website/blog/group, or anywhere else. You can link to this pattern if you wish. If you sell any items made from our pattern, please credit us as the original designers and link back to this blog.

Facebook = Brain Sucking Zombie

2011-01-16T20:07:00.000-08:00

Random Picture

     You have no idea how many times I composed this blog and then deleted it because I thought it was either nonsense, stupid, or ranting about something that isn't important. As I sit here I began to wonder why the heck I can't compose my thoughts enough to write a decent blog.
     Gee, maybe because I am on Facebook all the time posting a status message about this or that and whatever else meets my fancy. This may sound weird, but I have this need to write and Facebook has become a means of choking that desire to use my brain for once.
     I've made the mistake of using it as a means to express myself instead of just composing a blog. What's my excuse for keeping Facebook? The people I couldn't keep in contact with without it. Perhaps it's time to work on seperating social networking from my own life.
Maybe then I will finally be able to concentrate on creating something worthwhile.

Case for the Death Penalty

2011-01-06T10:49:00.000-08:00

So I have been keeping up on the case of Ronald McCloud, the man who murdered my friend Jan in our church building June 4, 2005. His mother is on the stand laying out his childhood before the whole world, and I must make this comment. Shame on you! I never would wish that on anyone, but you deserve to be shamed. Perhaps being on the stand and having your comments reported for all the world to see is the shame that you needed to feel in order to realize your contribution to this society has caused a negative impact (the father is no better).
Who takes cocaine and perscription drugs while pregnant with their children? Honestly, do you think it was a smart idea? She lied to the doctors and social workers, beat her children, and before a social worker showed up at her home she would make her kids put up empty boxes of food to fool them. She would force Ronald to be the man of the house and go with their father so she could be assured he would return home.

Then she made the comment about feeling responsible for it all. Of course, you are, 100% responsible for the man that became a psychopathic rapist. Of course, you are not responsible for him making the choice to murder; however, you did influence his life in a very wrong way.
I wish she would be locked up.

She then made the comment, "I just want my son to have a chance." The same son who was in and out of juvinile detention and then jail. He had his chance repeatedly and repeatedly did he prove that he dosn't care about turning his life around. He has a record going back to 1991 and after that it's private due to him being a juvenile.

She's just trying to save him from the death penalty, which by all means he does deserve. Honestly, how many crimes must he commit in order for us to come to our senses and realize he's not going to change! Mercy is the right thing to give, but repeated offenders ought not be let out into our society to run rampant.
Forgiveness is key, but when you let it make you into a doormat that gets abused time and again, it is pointless. Let him show his regret, remorse, and apologies by death penalty. He dosn't deserve to live and breath the air we breath and eat the food we eat. He dosn't deserve to enjoy the wonderful things of life, if he couldn't show mercy on someone who was showing him mercy to begin with.

Jan was trying to be a good woman when she friended him. She stood by her morals and values and wanted to be a witness of Jesus Christ. And what did she get in return? A violent rape and death.

So, my case is for the death penalty. Please protect our society by removing those who seek to turn it into something horrid.

Bumble Bee Party Favor Pattern

2011-01-05T13:45:00.000-08:00

Note: I don't remember size measurements, but my guess is close to three inches.

Materials: Yellow, Black, and White WW Yarn, Safety Eyes, Polyfiber Fill, and Embroidery Thread, E Hook

Body:

6SC in MC.
2SC in each ST around. (12)
SC around. (12)
Repeat R3. (12)
Repeat R3. Insert safety eyes between R3 & R4.
SC1, SC2TOG around. (8) Change to black.
*SC3, 2SC in next ST.* around. (10)
*SC4, 2SC in next ST.* around. (12) Change to yellow.
SC around. (12)
SC around. (12) Change to black.
*SC5, 2SC in next ST.* around. (14)
SC around. (14) Change to yellow.
SC5, SC2TOG around. (12)
SC4, SC2TOG around. (10) Fasten off yellow and change to black.
SC3, SC2TOG around. (8) Begin to stuff.
SC2, SC2TOG around. (6)

Wings:

3SC in MC.
2SC in each ST around. (6)
SC around.
Repeat 3.
Repeate 3.
SC4, SC2TOG. (5)
SC around. (5) Fasten off.

Sew wings to bee and weave in ends. Embroider mouth on bee.

Oh Christmas Barf...

2010-12-30T09:49:00.000-08:00

Neeldepoint done by MIL

Well, here is my one unqiue Christmas story that I will be laughing about next year. You see, I woke up on Christmas day with headache pain. Then it evolved into massive migraine, which then mutated into hammer head migraine. You know the ones that are sinus related and make you feel as if your head is being pounded on with a hammer? That is how it felt. I took a Tylenol before I left, then took a sudafed to help the sinus pressure, and since neither of those stopped the pain, I got some Motrin from a gas station. I was surprised how many people where in a gas station on Christmas. Anyways.
Driving down the road I begin to feel nauseated and started to feel that genuine feeling of wanting to "spew" (Wayne's World reference lol). Looked at my husband, "Uh, don't want to alarm you but I feel nauseated." That is when I noticed that we were now going speedily down the road.

When we got to the MIL's house, I was fine, until I needed to go potty. It's like I unconsciously thought, "I can't let it rip now!" but my brain was saying "OH HELL NO!" That was a lovely way to start my Christmas, but I made it through the day and the Motrin actually did help. Oh and I had a lovely time at the inlaws house.

Screw you Tylenol.

I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day

2010-12-21T06:30:00.000-08:00

I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day
Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

I thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along the unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

And in despair I bowed my head:
"There is no peace on earth," I said,
"For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men."

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
"God is not dead, nor doth he sleep;
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail,
With peace on earth, good will to men."

Till, ringing singing, on its way,
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime,
Of peace on earth, good will to men!

-Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

This poem was turned into a song by Casting Crowns, which is a beautiful carol; however, I love the poem much better. Oh and I didn't know that this was a poem by Longfellow, who is coincidentally one of my favorite poets. This is a good piece, it's something I keep singing after the song has ended.

My Bronner Ornaments

2010-12-20T08:14:00.000-08:00

My little seahorse, wrapped in Christmas lights and wearing a santa's hat.

The Gherkin Pickle ornament, supposedly German families put one on the tree for kids to find. It was so the kids would appreciate the ornaments.

The cocoa bulb with gold glitter etching. This is the one my husband picked out.

My nativity ornament. I love this it's so pretty!

This gold star is the ornament Santa gave my son.

My giraffe ornament! I absolutely love it.

This train is what I picked out for my son's ornament.

Cookies on the brain.

2010-12-16T20:27:00.000-08:00

When I was little, I had a great grandmother who made such lovely cookies. She made snow balls, hershey kiss cookies, tricorn hats (they had jelly in folded up pastry), and many others. I never thought making this silly cookies would bring back such fond memories for me. These were happy times when I would go to grandma's house and sneak one out of thre freezer while she wasn't looking.

She started making them for the Christmas season, and would freeze them as she went along. Come Christmas time out came the containers and we ate till our heart's content. On top of that we had lots of pumpkin pie and whatever else suited our fancy that year. Nobody was allowed to open presents until everyone was done eating. We had so many people come over that we had to have a kitchen table put in the living room and all the fixings were in the middle of the table. The kids were made to sit at the kids table in the kitchen. I guess this is what Christmas was for me. Those times of pure joy when I ate my fill in cookies and then ripped open the gifts.

The kids would throw all the paper underneath the table and then crawl around in it! It made for fun times. On ocassion before Christmas Eve we would wrap ourselves and try to get into the Christmas presents. My cousin liked to open them the night before when everyone was asleep, then he would try to wrap them again. Until he messed one up so bad that he had to get a whole new sheet of paper. Perhaps that is why grandma gave up on buying us gifts and just gave us money!

Then my baby cousin came into our lives and we had fun torturing him before Christmas. We'd tell him Santa wasn't coming or pretend to call Santa and tell him that my cousin was bad and to give him a lump of coal. He believed every bit of it.

Now that I am a mom myself and have a beautiful child to take care of, I look forward to making these kind of memories for my son. He's such a sweetheart and deserves to be happy. I thought I would miss those times so much, but I find joy and peace in knowing that I can create those memories for myself. Instead of mourning the past I can make and remake new times for myself and my son (and any future children).

Noah, Grandma, Mattie

I swear, I am in a love/hate relationship with Christmas this year. This weekend my husband and I are going to Bronners in Frankenmuth, MI and I want to buy some Christmas ornaments. Atleast two of them!

Well, see ya'll later.

Not Posessed by the Christmas Spirit

2010-12-16T06:19:00.000-08:00

Dear Christmas:

Since I don't believe in fictional characters, I am not writing a letter to jolly Saint Nick! I used to like you, but since this Christmas started, I've had a real hard time getting into the spirit of Christmas.

You know I was thinking about that. What caused me to start disliking Christmas? I came up with several reasons.

Murder trial.
Family fighting.
Grandpa is gone.

Yeah, those are good enough reasons. Atleast I still have my sanity and I don't hate everything, just don't like this whole "Christmas Spirit" thing. I'd be perfectly happy not celebrating at all. This holiday is supposed to celebrate our Savior's birth; however, I am greatful for that every day of my life. I love the Lord and He is the most important part of my life.

Baking cookies didn't help.
Putting up the tree.
Listening to music. Didn't help.

I guess I'll just give up on this holiday.

Sincerely,
Ivory

My Pineapple Doily

2010-12-14T18:50:00.000-08:00

I have one row of chaining to do and then I am done with this doily for good! Since the pattern came from another doily (which I could not find the pattern for) I copied it from the doily itself. Retro-crochet it so to speak. The original doily is one that belonged to my great-great grandmother and is a piece of handmade history. The following picture is the original doily. I think my great-great grandmother didn't have a pattern either, because she did some pretty weird things with this. Some of the rows on the original doily aren't joined to the beginning CH. I did my best to correct this.

I found some crochet thread that was the exact color of red, green, and yellow; however, the pink was nowhere to be found. I wonder if it got faded over the years or was ruined in the washing machine. I don't think it would be that noticeable. Gonna fix this doily. I am almost afraid to attempt that, but I suppose if I am careful enough it will work ok.

I think the best plan of action is to start from the beginning and repair the white thread. There are some holes and stitches that are just haning loose. I have some thread that I was going to use to sew the stitches back. Then I will remove the color thread and redo the outside. I think it will look awesome!

Tutorial: How to sew parts on using a gridline.

2010-12-11T11:44:00.000-08:00

Here's a tip on how to sew objects onto your project using a simple guidline made from yarn in a contrasting color.

Note: Embroidery thread is a good guidline as well. Save these yarn stirps, you can use them later.

1. Weave a strip of yarn through a stitch, using the center to help find the middle of the circle below. Then you do another strip of yarn perpindicular to the previous one. It should look something like this.

2. Using a couple straight pins, pin down your parts and then sew them on.

3. When done with sewing, remove the gridline and the result should look something like this:

You could use this on a number of items, like an amigurumi or when sewing on appliques.

The Bikini Square - 8" (In Testing)

2010-12-11T06:25:00.000-08:00

"The Bra Square" - Eight Inches

Close up of Square.

Thursday, Oh Thursday!

2010-12-09T11:25:00.000-08:00

I suppose I will keep blogging about my week, read the last post if you don't know what's going on.   Writing is a form of release for me, it's my way of expressing what is inside.

Tuesday - the trial for Jan's murderer started, and it seems as if everything started resurfacing. At the end of the day I was in tears because I just couldn't take it anymore. No emotion from Ronald McCloud.

Wednesday - I was fine, especially when I found out about the DNA evidence. STILL no emotion from Ronald McCloud.

Today - I am 100% sure that Ronald McCloud will not get away from his fate. And you know what? I am ok with him spending his life in jail or waiting for his execution. Today they discussed the DNA evidence and then they are going over motions.   FINALLY Ronald McCloud starts sobbing. Wow. I felt some victory because of this, he finally shows some remorse. They found Jan's purse in Ronald's mother's house, he drove her car, and his DNA was on her body (her chest area). Like the guy said, all evidence points to this one person.

I feel as if closure is finally on it's way. Just waiting for the verdicts to come along. The defense is still trying to prove there was no kidnapping, yet she was held against her will and attacked him. They argument is that she had to be moved in order to be kidnapped. I feel differently! Kidnapping is holding anyone against their will, location dosn't matter, moving them dosn't matter.   You can go into someone's home and kidnap them, keep them from going outside and cut them off from the world. But according to this defense attorney, you have to be moved? What a lowsy argument.

Now they are saying the state failed to prove their evidence. Yet they found DNA on her that was proven to be Ronald's DNA. He had gashes and gouges on him.

Oh wow! The judges are going to deliberate for a verdict. We could know by 4pm (EST) what is going to happen with Ronald McCloud. Thank God.

Whatever happens will be in God's hands. This trial was already decided back in 2005 by the God, the King of Kings.

A Pic posted by Court Reporter (before 2001)

Jan in 2001

What's been going on...

2010-12-08T08:48:00.000-08:00

Incase your friends with me on Facebook and wondering what is going on with me posting about a trial, it is a murder trial for the man who killed my friend. Since I am an hour and a half away I can't be there; however, one of the local reporters is tweeting live in the courtroom. How nice huh?

I find this convenient and strange. Yesterday the shock of everything just put me to tears, but today I am dealing with it alot better than yesterday.

My son was a little fiesty yesterday. He kept knocking over a chair at my kitchen table and crying because I would not give him a sippy cup. If he didn't turn it upsidedown and douse my table, I would let him have it.

Today he just is being his normal self and all. He loves to find new things to fit himself into.

I also made some cookies yesterday. I guess it was an attempt to keep my mind off other things.

Crochet In Common Dishcloth

2010-12-04T11:11:00.000-08:00

Aurora's Dishcloth

Crochet In Common Dishcloth

By Judy Westen, Aurora, Kat, and Ivory Herman

Materials: 100% Cotton, H Hook

Round 1: CH4, 15DC in fourth chain from hook, join to top of beginning CH4.

Round 2: CH3, 1DC in same ST *(ch1, skip next DC, 2DC in next DC) repeat from * 7 times. CH 1, join to top of beginning CH3.

Round 3: SLPST to next CH spot, CH 3DC in same spot. (one FPDC around each of next two DC, 2DC in next CH sp) 7 times. FPDC around each of next two DC, join in top of beginning CH 3. (32 dc or 16dc and 16 FPDC)

Round 4: CH3, 1 DC, CH1, 2DC in same stitch; *(CH 2, skip next 2DC, 2DC, CH1, 2 DC in next DC) repeat from * 10 times; CH2, join to top of beginning CH3.

My dishcloth minus a round.

Round 5: CH3, FPDC around CH3 of previous round and in next DC, in CH spot 2DC, CH2, 2DC. FPDC in next 2ST. *2SC in next CH spot, FPDC in next 2DC, in CH spot 2DC, CH2, 2DC, FPDC in next 2DC* repeat from * 9 times, 2sc in next CH spot, join to FPDC not CH3. (80DC, 20SC, 10 points)

Round 6: CH3 (counts as first DC), DC in next 3 stitches (DC, CH2, DC) in CH2 space, DC in next 4 stitches, CH1, skip next 2SC. *DC in next 4DC, DC, CH2 DC in CH2 space, DC in next 4 stitches. CH1, skip 2SC. Repeat from * 8 more times and end with slip stitch in top of beginning chain 3. (100 DC, 10 ch1 spaces 10 points)

Round 7: Ch3, (counts as first ST), DC in next ST, (FPDC around next two STS, DC in next ST. DC,Ch2, DC in next ch2 space. *DC in 1st stitch after CH2 space, FPDC around next 2 stitches, DC in next 2ST, CH1)* 9 times. Skip next CH space, DC in 2STS, FPDC around next 2STS, DC in next ST. DC-ch2-DC in next Ch2 space, DC in next sp, FPDC around next 2STS, DC in last 2STS, Ch1, skip next CH sp, joining at top of CH3 (120 dc).

Round 8: Chain 2; HDC in each stitch around with 2HDC in each CH2 spot, join to beginning CH2. Finish off and weave in ends.

Another dishcloth by Aurora

Darlene Dean's Dishcloth (pattern tester)

Worst holiday presents... My reply to MP Dunleavey

2010-12-02T19:51:00.000-08:00

On one of my random trips to MSN messesnger I spotted an article that caught my interest. "15 Worst Holiday Gift Ideas" and thought I would take a gander.

1. Self help bull crap. - I agree here, who in their mind gives a gift that insults someone at the same time. That is called being a selfish a-hole (for lack of a better term). IN THE TRASH IT GOES.

2. Useless gadgets. - Nothing like getting an electronic item you will use a few times and then toss in the trash when it's obsolete. IN THE TRASH THAT ONE GOES.

3. Lingere - Face it, it's for your husband not you. You wont even use this one for more than what?? Two minutes. IN THE TRASH IT GOES.

4. Weapons - Who the hell buys their kid a weapon? Uh no, you don't deserve to be a parent if you buy your kid anything that brings harm to someone. IMMEDIATELY TRASHED.

5. BOGO - Because you justified your impulse buy by giving one as a gift. TRASHED.

6. Regifted Item - I don't want last years junk. TRASHED.

7. Gag gifts. - Not a gift, a means to cause embarassment to someone on a holiday that is supposed to be pleasant. TRASHED.

8. BOOKS - Lady you have got to be kidding me? A book is a bad idea? What if that book is your child's favorite author.   So now we are discouraging literacy and encouraging faces plastered to television and computer monitors.   Reading a book is not evil.   Take the time to pick out one that you know the reciever will like.

9. Handmade items??? ARE YOU FREAKING KIDDING ME.   So far all the stuff you said to not buy up until the book item, is a bunch of crap and I agree with you. However, this no book and handmade items are quite stupid.

Who wants to receive a gift that everyone else has? Who wants to look like every other joe-shmoe.   A handmade item has more heart in it then any mass produced item. Oh and not to mention that item was made by an American and not some Chinese man/woman.   I have no problem with China; however, I think locally made is awesome.

Plus, you can keep this treasure for much longer than anything else. If you were given an item from a store, would you take more care of that then something handmade? No, I would keep my handmade item safe. I appreciate the effort and thought that went into making that gift.

If gift giving is from the heart, then I want handmade! NOT CRAP.

I am done with my rant now.

Thanks Giving Sunday (At Church)

2010-11-22T07:52:00.000-08:00

This past Sunday was really nice, the pastor did a really neat visual aid with her sermon and it was kind of funny to see all that. She manages to make some of the most interesting visualizations.

This past Sunday my church had it's own Thanks Giving dinner. It was a wonderful time, got to socialize with lots of people. You can see Noah's head in the picture lol.

I decided I didn't want to be in the picture. That is Matt and Rio with the other baby. Then there is Jeremiah and Adrian, the blonde at the end is Jenn, my little instigator.

Anyways. It was nice to see everyone, oh and the food was wonderful.

Now I am looking forward to the actual holiday with my in laws. Going to Crestline, OH to see the hubby's family.

In other news my son turned two on the 14th of November, my husband turned 27 today! :)

I am working on a blanket for Robert, have it half done. Just threw this picture in for the heck of it.

Yoda, Crocheted I.

2010-11-11T12:39:00.000-08:00

I got an e-mail from my friend Judy, she forwarded some links to free amigurumi patterns. I just happened to have the right colors to make this guy and thought it would be fun. That is just something I needed, something fun to crochet. Little Yoda was all I needed.

I had to do the cloak by my own methods, but I think it looks alot better than the pattern link. If you want the link click here.

Content of a Crocheter's Bag

2010-11-11T07:50:00.001-08:00

Adipose Fat Doll Amigurumi

2010-11-03T11:20:00.000-07:00

Materials: White WW Yarn, F Hook, 9MM Safety Eyes (or whatever size you have)

Abbreviations: SC = Single Crochet, ST = Stitch, SC2TOG = SC Two Together (Decreasing), SLPST = Slip Stitch

Notes: MC = Magic Circle, not Main Color

Body:
R1: 6SC in MC
R2: 2SC in each ST around. (12)
R3: SC1, 2SC in next ST. (18)
R4: SC2, 2SC in next ST. (24)
R5: SC3, 2SC in next ST. (30)
R6: SC8, 2SC in next 3ST, SC10, 2SC in next 3ST, SC6. (36)
R7-11: SC around. (36)
R12: SC6, SC2TOG three times, SC10, SC2TOG three times, SC8. (30)
R13-21: SC around. (30)
R22: SC3, SC2TOG around. (24)
R23: SC2, SC2TOG around. (18)
R24: SC1, SC2TOG around. (12)
R25: SC2TOG around. (6) Attach safety eyes and then stuff.

Arms (Make Two):
R1: 6SC in MC.
R2: SC in each ST around.
R3: SC1, 2SC in next ST, SC1, 2SC in next 2ST. (10)
R4: SC around. (10)
R5: SC3, SC2TOG, SC3, SC2TOG. (8)
R6 - 12: SC around. Begin stuffing at R6.

Legs (Make Two):
R1: 6SC in MC.
R2: SC in each ST around.
R3: SC2TOG twice, SC1, SC2TOG twice, SC3. (8)
R4-5: SC around.
R6: SC5, 3SC in next 3ST, CH1, turn.
R7: 2SC in each ST, DO NOT TURN, SC in next 2ST of R6, join to top of 1st SC of round, CH1, SC in same ST, SC around, join to 1st ST.

Assembly:
Sew on arms, then legs (stuff if you want), and embroider mouth.

*DISCLAIMER: NOT ASSOCIATED WITH ANY DR. WHO SHOW CHARACTER.*

Swarm of Bees Gone to Las Vegas

2010-10-29T19:04:00.000-07:00

Baby shower party favors I made for a woman in Las Vegas, NV. There are 18, thus the title of my blog lol. What a neat idea for a party favor, wish I would have thought of that.

I can post the pattern I made up for it. Will do later on.

Crochet In The Dark

2010-10-15T08:30:00.000-07:00

In my last post I made a list about things to keep your sanity. So I stated that it would be fun to crochet in the dark, and then one of my friends decided to say that would actually be fun to do. Then they told me not to use my Crochetlite hooks, because it would make it cheating lol. Yeah! :)

Ok, incase your wondering, these are Crochetlite hooks, they have lights inside of them so you can crochet anywhere, anytime! Oh yeah. Anyways, I went off to complete my challenge.

First, I picked my hook, which I thought was a size H, but after crocheting for awhile I realized that I had picked up a size I hook instead. That I realized to late, but it worked out anyways.

So I decided to crochet from memory because I can't read in the dark. I crocheted a five round granny square. This would involve SLPST, DC, and joining in the dark. This should be easy right? So I went to my nearest tote, which was a bag of crochet cotton and picked out in the dark a skien of yarn. I ended up picking a skien of yarn that was banana yellow.

The difficult part was trying to guess where the loop was. I CH4 and joined to form a loop, then CH3 and so on. I had to feel with my fingers what I was doing most of the time. Sometimes I lost count and didn't realize. All in all, the granny square didn't look that bad. I just think I will frog it later on lol.

Five Round Granny Square Crocheted in the Dark

Things to save your sanity...

2010-10-14T06:39:00.000-07:00

Beat a pillow senseless.
Lay down in the bed and imagine your somewhere else.
Dance around with your toddler or child.
Get colored pencils and draw, even if it’s ugly.
Read jokes on the internet.
Just laugh.
Just cry!
Make faces at your toddler/child and make a game out of getting them to laugh.
Listen to the laughter of children, if you don’t have any go to a park.
Crochet in the park.
CROCHET IN THE DARK! LOL.
Pet your animals.
Snuggle with your child/toddler/animal/sexy husband…whoops I mean husband.
Smirk.
Think about what makes you happy.
Remember happy moments.
Call someone and laugh with them.
Make a list of these things and reflect on them, making sure to leave room for any additions.

My Favorite Hooks

2010-10-04T10:46:00.000-07:00

These have got to be my new favorite hooks, beside the aluminum ones I have. I can use these for crocheting in the car when it's dark out and not get bored to death! They light up really bright as you can see, this was taken in a dark room. My only issue is the price, they are around $8.00 at Hobby Lobby. I caught two of these on sale for 40% off at Hobby Lobby.

In other news, I am almost done with my doily. LOL. I will finish it eventually. I am designing an afghan square that has bras in it. Don't worry it's tasteful. I've also listed new items in my Etsy, like my Catdog pattern. All in all the last few weeks have been good.

Instead of crocheting, I've been doing this...

2010-09-23T20:26:00.000-07:00

All images are copyright, Ivory Herman, 2010. Not for your personal use, but to oggle with your eyes.

Crochet Needles and Knitting Hooks

2010-09-20T21:09:00.000-07:00

You know what has "gotten my goat" lately? People who refer to crochet hooks as "crochet needles" without giving it a second thought. These people who have been around me for Lord knows how long and have seen me doing it all the time, still have the nerve to use "needle" with crochet. Sigh.

Well, got that off my chest. See you all later.

Some Patterns Should NOT Be Free

2010-08-30T12:11:00.000-07:00

I am writing in regards to a recent post made on this blog regarding how all patterns should be given away for free! And what "get's my goat" is how the person who wrote this blog is a designer!
I have found that many people are trying to make a living creating these
patterns which I will admit. Take many hours to create.
Trying to make a living? No, not everyone can make a living off of composing knit/crochet patterns. Infact, as one commenter pointed out, there are lots of fees involved, depending on what site you use. I personally prefer Etsy, which cost .20 to list an item; however, on Ravelry there is no charge, but at the same time I have gotten alot more sales from Etsy. So ontop of paying for a listing charge, you will have to pay a fee to Paypal, if you use them. Oh and then you have to pay a percentage off of those sales, ontop of the listing fees.

Putting these all together in one book is going to drive the cost up even more. You have to pay the publisher, pay for printing the books, and share your profit with whatever vender you sell with.
I say whatever and shame on those people for trying to become
rich.
And do you think I am going to get rich from selling my patterns? No, I don't expect to get rich, but it does help to have some pocket money to help fund my yarn and supplies. Four and five dollars is not alot to pay for a more complicated pattern (like a doily or an amigurumi), but if that price were tacked onto a thing like a six inch afghan square, then obviously I am not going to purchase it. Use your brain people.

Oh and another thing, it really ruffles my feathers when you go and make a comment like the one above! Who are you to sit there and get down on people for trying to earn a few dollars to help them or their families out? It's quite rude and frankly, you sound like a blubbering child.

If the price on a pattern bothers you so darn much, then don't look at it, click out of the window and stop complaining.

Oh and I just visited the website of the blog owner, they are selling hyperlinks (to your online store) for $2.00 (a onetime fee). You also sell instructional videos! LOL.

And who is trying to get rich? Hmm.

Finished My Scarf

2010-08-26T12:48:00.000-07:00

Free Great Dane Amigurumi

2010-08-25T10:56:00.000-07:00

Updated: 01/28/2011

Head:

R1: 6SC in MC.
R2: 2SC in each ST around. (12)
R3: SC1, 2SC in next ST. (18)
R4-8: SC around. (18)

R9: Change to teal yarn (for collar - not visible in pic), in BLO SC around. (18)

Nostrils (make two):

R1: 6SC in MC.

R2: 2SC in each ST around. Bind off.
-Make a second nostril but do NOT bind it off! Hold both nostrils together and SC around the top two times. (48 total SC for two rounds = 24sc per round).  Pictures below.

R3: Do only one SC1 and SC2TOG. (15) -Stuff with polyfiber fill to help keep shape.

Tongue:

R1: CH4, SC in 2nd CH from hook and across, CH1 and turn.

R2: SC across, CH1 and turn.

R3: Repeat row 2.

R4: SC2TOG, SC1.

Mouth Flap (goes under nostrils):

R1: 6SC in MC. CH1, turn.

R2: SC across, CH, turn.

R3: SC across, CH1, turn.

R4: Repeat row 3. Bind off.

Body:

R1: 6SC in MC.

R2: 2SC in each ST around. (12)

R3: SC1, 2SC in next ST around. (18)

R4: SC2, 2SC in next ST around. (24)

R5: SC3, 2SC in next ST around. (30)

R6: SC4, 2SC in next ST around. (36)

R7: SC around.

R8: SC4, SC2TOG. (30)

R9: SC around. (30)

R10: SC3, SC2TOG. (24)

R11-16: SC around. (24)

R17: SC2, SC2TOG around. (18)
R18: SC3, SCTOG around. (12)

R19-22: SC around. (12)

R23: SC1, SC2TOG. (6) Bind off and close up hole.

Arms and Legs (Make 4):

R1: 6SC in MC.

R2: 2SC in first 3ST, SC in next 3ST. (9)

R3: 2SC in first 3ST, SC in remaining. (12)

R4: SC2TOG (3x), SC in remaining ST. (9)

R5: SC2TOG (2x), SC in remaining ST. (7)

R6-17: SC around. (7) Bind off and leave a tail for sewing.

Tail:

R1: 6SC in MC.

R2-20: SC around. (6)

Ears (Make Two):

R1: CH3, SC in 2nd CH from hook, CH1 and turn. (1)

R2: SC2, CH1 and turn. (2)

R3: 2SC in each ST, CH1 and turn. (4)

R4: 2SC in 1st ST, SC in next 2ST, 2SC in last ST, CH1 and turn. (6)

R5: 2SC in 1stST, SC4, 2SC in last ST. (8)

Assembly:

Note: Use straight pins to line up your body parts!

Sew nostrils on head, sew tongue underneath, sew mouth flap under tongue.
Sew ears ontop of head.
If you haven't already, stuff the head and body.
Sew head onto the body.
Sew arms and legs onto body.
Sew on tail.
Hide all ends!

Holding Nostrils Together

SC in adjoining ST on other nostril.

How to hold mouth while sewing.

Sewing on mouth flap.

Updated: 3/13/2011

Seeing Humor in it All

2010-08-16T07:04:00.000-07:00

My morning started when I got out of bed and fell flat on my face b/c I was half asleep and didn’t realize that my leg was asleep. Sigh… and do you know that I called out for my husband and told him I fell down. He kept on sleeping.

Not surprised, his mother told me he wouldn’t wake up for her when a tornado was in their neighborhood. She dragged him off the couch and finally just left him in the stairwell b/c she couldn’t get him down the stairs.

I guess I will go cook breakfast, want to try this eggs in purgatory recipe and then I gotta mail a car payment.. which by the way we had to replace all friggin four tires this Saturday. That shot the entire day, that was family time. Last week was good until Friday. My son was picked on at the mall play area by two twin girls and a little boy that were around his age. The girls kept pushing him and the boy would walk up and smack him. Then he was finally pushed down flat on his back! I was so pissed, atleast the dad of the boy who did apologized to me and the other dad took his girls out of the play area. I couldn’t help but wonder if he wasn’t on the darn cellphone the whole time then maybe he would see that his girls were pushing Noah.

Sigh. Atleast the movie we went to see "Inception" was good! It's totally a psychologal thriller and it was written very well. I thought I would hate seeing a movie with Leonardo DiCaprio in it, but he did a good job.

Just some random stuff I did in photoshop. I feel the need to have a picture here lol.

Finished Projects

2010-08-08T19:33:00.001-07:00

Rotten Egg Cozy

2010-08-03T07:59:00.000-07:00

Materials: Cotton yarn, Embroidery floss, F Hook, Tapestry Needle

Bottom of Egg Cozy

Round 1: 6SC in MC.
Round 2: 2SC in each ST around. (12)
Round 3: 1SC, 2SC in next ST around. (18)
Round 4: 2SC, 2SC in next ST around. (24)
Round 5-9: SC around. (24)
Round 10: 6SC, 2SCTOG around. (21) Fasten off and weave in ends.

Top of Egg Cozy:
Round 1: 7SC in MC.
Round 2: 1SC, 2SC in each ST around. (24)
Round 3: 6SC, 2SCTOG around. (21) Fasten off and weave in ends.

Assembly: To make a hinge, put top on bottom and sew up three stitches, bind off and weave in ends. Embroider face and enjoy!

My Second Afghan

2010-07-26T09:13:00.001-07:00

Here is the second large afghan I completed. It has 20 - 12" squares, done in a traditional granny square pattern. The yarn is "I Love This Yarn" from Hobby Lobby. It's nice and soft so it dosn't feel stiff like some other brands.

Love affair with a balloon...

2010-07-16T21:23:00.000-07:00

Noah and I took a drive out to the car insurance company, where he very politely pooped his pants, then we went straight home. Around noon we went to the Mall to walk around, I wanted a knecklace to wear to a dance I am going too. On the way to the store in the mall, I stopped and got my son a balloon. He loved that dang balloon, never let it out of his sight. It had an anchor on it so it wouldn't go flying off. I took him to the play area, he dragged it everywhere, even through the hallowed out log.

The cutest moment is when he was sitting in the red car, then he remembered that he didn't have the balloon in sight. Then he got out and started looking for it. The funny thing is, he was sitting on the cord of the balloon and never saw it when he got up. When he started crying I ran and handed it back to him. It was one of those precious moments!

Noah then decided to keep that balloon in the car and at home. Oh you should have seen the fit he threw when I didn't let him take it into a store or in the bathtub.

Crochet and Poetry??? :)

2010-07-15T05:58:00.001-07:00

When it comes to crochet,
I have to confess,
I have been accused
Of being obsessed.
Just one more stitch!
Just one more round!
I just can't seem to put my hook down.
What's that, Dear? You're hungry?
Yes, yes, Dear, I know,
Just, please, let me finish
This one last row.
What did you say, Dear?
You're ready for bed?
My doily's almost finished;
You go on ahead!
What? The house is on fire?
Alright, I'm on my way,
But first let me gather
All my books on crochet.
And my yarn and my hooks
And my WIP's and......
Oh dear!!!!
So, tell me St. Peter,
Are there any crochet groups up here?

-Elizabeth Ann White 2010

I might try my hand at crochet and poetry lol. I'll get back to you on that one.

Almost There, But Hit A Snag

2010-06-24T10:49:00.000-07:00

I might have to rip out like one/two rows to fix an obvious discrepency. It is minor though and shouldn't take that long; however, I decided I needed a break, so I have put this project down for a "break".

A Piece of Handmade History Continued

2010-06-10T10:30:00.001-07:00

So, I am writing the pattern from the following doily. Since I can not find it anywhere online, I will offer it for free (because I don't feel right selling something that I will never know if I own).
I decided on charting the doily, rather than doing written instructions. The drawing isn't that hard to follow, but my paper isn't as big as I would like it to be. Anyways, here are the first few rounds. Do you think it's looking like above yet? LOL.

How about now??? I am currently starting to chart the first set of pineapples. There are two sets if you look closely, the outer rim actually has pineapples, they are just hard to see with the colored border. After I am done with the pattern, I have the thread to repair the doily in the first picture. This next round begins the pineapples.

A Piece of Handmade History

2010-06-03T07:57:00.000-07:00

So I posted recently about a doily that my great-great grandmother made, over 27 years ago. I've been searching the internet and asking ladies in the Yahoo! Group: celtsvintagecrochet if any of them recognized the pattern and nobody did.

The best suggestion was retro-crochet the doily. All I really need to do is the border, but it would be a shame to not have the pattern, seeing as it's pretty much non-existant. So, that will be my next project, after I repair this doily.

I picked it up and thought how nice it was to hold something handmade by a grandmother of mine, it was like holding a piece of history. I may have taught myself how to crochet, but I feel as if I am picking up that tradition.

Do you recognize the pattern?

2010-06-01T15:39:00.000-07:00

This doily is over 27 years old, it was made by my great, great grandmother. I intend on restoring it to normal. I can't fix the discoloration from bleeding yarn because I don't even know what kind of thread was used.

I was just wondering if anyone recognized this pattern? I need to know the stitch count for the colored border or else I am guessing.

Latest Works Gallery

2010-05-17T07:52:00.000-07:00

Crochet Spot Article

2010-05-17T07:26:00.000-07:00

Just thought I would share the link to my last article on Crochet Spot. It is an article on Amigurumi making tips. Visit Here ----> http://www.crochetspot.com/amigurumi-tips-and-tricks/

Stubborn Tenacity!

2010-04-02T06:12:00.000-07:00

Ok, first I have to mention that my article for Crochetspot has been published! I am so excited and have come to the realization that it is so much fun writing about something your passionate about. Check out my article "Tips on Reading Crochet Patterns".

Onto what I want to blog about. Why in the world would I name my blog post "Stubborn Tenacity"? Well, because I have been dabeling in knitting, it's the original craft I started out with before I was introduced to crochet. I must say that all I can do right now is knit and purl. This week, I have attempted about four different projects involving more advanced knitting skills and have failed miserably at them. A couple of times I threw down the needles and yarn and got very angry because I couldn't figure out these simple patterns.

Well, my stubborn streak set in and I thought to myself "Why am I letting something so simple overcome me?" And that is when I picked the needles back up and kept knitting. I am kind of stuck on this, I don't know why it's so important to finish. I find it kind of funny that I am not giving up, no matter how many times I frog something!

NO SURRENDER!

Here is one project I did manage to finish successfully. I do have a crocheted amigurumi, but I can't show it because it's my swap partners honor to see first.

Oh this weekend is going to be sweet! My church is doing our annual easter egg hunt. Here is the twist, we put our eggs in hay, because it would be hard to hide 20,000 eggs. LOL. No, I am not joking. Pictures will come soon!

To Crochet With A Purpose?

2010-03-17T12:24:00.000-07:00

On one side of me I have an entire grocery bag full of cotton yarn, and on the other side of me I have an entire bag full of "I Love This Yarn" by Hobby Lobby. You would think that I would get all excited about all the yarn, for me, the colors excite me more.

What is driving me nuts is how I can't figure out what to crochet next. The otherday I made two squares and sewed them together, with the intentions of making them into a drawstring bag, but then I thought "Why am I making this?" Then I shoved the bag into the bottom of another bag.

Have you ever felt this way? Can you crochet things without a purpose for crocheting them? I am lost on the internet with endless project ideas, yet can't find anything that suits my fancy. This is a shame, a pure shame!

Melt in the Cuteness Parade

2010-03-09T13:55:00.000-08:00

These are some recent projects I completed. The last amigurumi is a pattern that I made up, and need to type out eventually.

Scott the Bear, orphan, soon to be someone's lovely teddy.

Savanah's Penguin

Scooby Lookalike

-my original pattern

I have a square pattern somewhere, but need to find the picture lol. Oh yeah, here it is...

Chili Coke Pot Roast

2010-02-23T15:13:00.001-08:00

The Ingredients

I'd show you the finished product, but it's digesting now. I slow cooked this for about 7.5 hours and it was perfectly cooked! I saved the broth for a stew later on. All in all it was pretty good; however, I would like to use Dr. Pepper next time, I think it has more flavor.

Baja Memories

2010-01-21T18:45:00.000-08:00

This video was filmed in the location where I visited on my missions trip to Mexico. I even recognize one guy in the picture. He is a mexican, wearing a cowboy hat. His family was devistated, and when Global Expeditions built his house, he joined up and started building with the ministry. I actually met him down there in Mexico.

Yep, that is what it was like there.

xX The Catalope Blogs Xx

When Expectations Let You Down - Crochet Rage 02

My Crochet Related Pet Peeve - Crochet Rage 01

Fairy Doll Amigurumi - January Pattern of the Month

Say NO to SOPA and PIPA (or whatever else they call it)

List of Goals For Myself:

Noah's Third Birthday!

My Blog Views - Just Like Seeing What Is Looked At

Confession: I Love Korean T.V. Shows, Like "Jewel In The Palace"

Confession: I like Katy Perry and Chad Vader + Knitting Update

Children with Disabilities

Some people just need to shut up.

This post is depressing. Just warning you.

Sesame Street Spoofs Glee! FREAKING HILARIOUS.

Dig This Chickadee

WTF Was I Thinking? Worst Movie Ever.

A Postcard ...

Age of Empires Online

*cough* knitting * a *cough* scarf... *HACK*... Sorry.

The Comments People Make

Don't Call My Name Roberto... Random Blog TIme

Only Just A Dream...

I Love Music By Mat Kearney

It's weird who's music I am beginning to like...

Pregnancy Rant - NO I am NOT Pregnant

Music For the Mundane Monday

Music Monday on Friday, B/C It's My Blog

Family?

Adventures With Doilies...

More than Metaphysical!

Swap I Received

Woman Walks After 20+ Years

Some funny stuff lol.

Some Music For Monday

Wow Wednesday!

Music Monday!

Am I Normal? Therapy for myself, by myself.

Mad World!

Divine Appointments: How I Met Cindy Sumner's Mother

Cupcakeombis & The Innocentz

DPN - My derp moment.

The Toddler Files: "I can open doors now!"

Some Encouraging Words...

Breaking a cycle...

People Who Aren't Helpless and those Enablers

Pentagon and Hexagon Pattern

Dear Crochet:

Mental Disorders/Illnesses

Product Review: "The Crochet Dude" Yarn Cutter

Mental Illness/Disorder Stigma

Felt Donuts! :) Yummy.

Expectations of Intelligence

What Is Your Anthem?

Annoyed with Etsy Sellers

The Bikini Square - 8"

Pineapple Sun Square (Multiple Designers)

Facebook = Brain Sucking Zombie

Case for the Death Penalty

Bumble Bee Party Favor Pattern

Oh Christmas Barf...

I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day

My Bronner Ornaments

Cookies on the brain.

Not Posessed by the Christmas Spirit

My Pineapple Doily

Tutorial: How to sew parts on using a gridline.

The Bikini Square - 8" (In Testing)

Thursday, Oh Thursday!

What's been going on...

Crochet In Common Dishcloth

Worst holiday presents... My reply to MP Dunleavey

Thanks Giving Sunday (At Church)

Yoda, Crocheted I.

Content of a Crocheter's Bag

Adipose Fat Doll Amigurumi

Swarm of Bees Gone to Las Vegas

Crochet In The Dark

Things to save your sanity...

My Favorite Hooks

Instead of crocheting, I've been doing this...

cough knitting * a cough scarf... HACK... Sorry.