One of my New Year's Resolution

I've been admiring all the knit sweaters in magazines that I've decided that I'm going to learn to really knit and make some wearable. I started yesterday trying to knit and purl. Today I went out and bought another pair of needles (size 11), a learning to knit book, a knit gauge and of course a bunch of yarn. I bought about 8 skeins and 6 of the skeins in variegated colors. I want to make a shrug. I LOVE the wearable called the Reversible Winter Caplet but it's too hard for me right now. I know it said it's "easy" but it's beyond my skill level right now. I am an absolute novice. I know how to knit and purl (I have to cheat and keep looking at the directions) and that is about it. In the meantime, I'll keep practicing and look for a beginner pattern in some type of wearable.

There is no new progress on my side to side cowl sweater. It's done in all hdc and I'm so bored with it. I have to sew the sides and finish crocheting the 2 sleeves. I may go back to my crocheting tomorrow and finish it sometimes this week.

We'll be staying home this New Year's Eve. It will be a nice and quiet evening for us. I hope everyone has a Happy New Year! :)

Adding to my yarn stash

While browsing through JoAnn's yesturday, I noticed one of my favorite yarn was on sale again! I love Lion Brand Wool-Ease. It was soft and easy to work with. It was free shipping so I had to spend $35. The hardest part was deciding on the colors. I ordered 7 skeins of it in burgandy and 7 skeins in a light pink. Now I still had to choose some other yarn, so I decided to buy 3 skeins of the Red Heart Symphony in blue. I have never used this yarn before so I thought why not. I just hope I can find a sweater pattern using only 3 skeins. If anyone has any suggestions, let me know! :)

My current project is the side to side cowl neck sweater. I know, there's a common theme here. My last few projects all have a "cowl" neck. It wasn't planned this way. The ironic part is that I don't really like the cowl neck look on me and secondly, it doesn't get too cold here in Georgia for me to wear it. Today was probably in the 70s again! I had a turtle neck on and hubby had to turn on the a/c in the car! Back to project...it's coming slow. It's done in all hdc. I really love the look of the sweater on some of the people who made them on Ravelry. I didn't care for it when I first saw the pattern a while back on Lion Brand but maybe it was just the color. I'll keep everyone posted on my progress!

Denton bible media and Yarn

I purchased a set of CDs for Christmas from the Denton Bible Church Media Ministry. Last year a friend give us 6 months subscription and I have to tell you it's one of the best presents we ever received. Tom Nelson, the pastor is awesome. I love to hear his sermons. It's not like he's preaching and he's sooo down to earth. The CDs I purchased are the sermons on Ecclesiates. I have to say it's our favorite and Tom Nelson does such an excellent job on them. Sometimes during dinner, we'll put one in the CD player and listen to it while we're eating. I'm not usually one to preach but these are really awesome. You will not be disappointed. I just can't say enough about it!

Now on to yarn...I received B'day and Christmas money (my request) so I could buy yarn. Since my yarn stash is very very low, I've been doing a lot of browsing! I have not really purchased any sigificant amount though. I just purchased what I needed to finish my last project and caron 1 lb. yarn in blue. I've been looking through books, magazine, internet to find my next project. I found some projects I'd like to do but I couldn't bring myself to spend $100 on yarn for a single project. I'm too frugal and this is suppose to be my "inexpensive" hobby. Yesturday, I did finally find a couple of projects I'd like to do using Simply Soft and RH Super Saver. So today, I spent about $13 in yarn (4 skeins in Simply Soft and 2 skeins in Super Savor for 2 projects -not counting the 3 skeins I have in my stash). Not bad for 2 projects. With all the money I saved, I can buy a lot more yarn and not feel guilty. Maybe someday I'll splurge and buy the really expensive yarn but for now, I'm happy buying the more affordable ones!

My daughter on Christmas opening presents :)

My birthday present to me

I finished my lush cowl neck sweater today. I finished the last row of crochet and weaved in all the ends on my way home from my birthday lunch. Lunch was delicious and I even got to stop in at Michaels to buy some yarn. (A very nice lady gave me a coupon for 50% off but I didn't use it - I passed it on to another shopper). What a wonderful day :) Hubby even made my favorite birthday cake this morning - strawberry whip cream. Yum! I can't wait to have some after dinner!

Anyways, back to my sweater. This sweater is from the book Fabulous & Flirty Crochet by Katherine Lee. The pattern called for a light weight mohair yarn but I made it with a chunky weight yarn. This was my first time using Patrons. The yarn is called devine. I love the softness of it. It wasn't as difficult crocheting with it as I thought it would be. I got use to crocheting more by the "feel" of it then seeing the stitches. I love the red I used but after finishing the back and front, I felt it needed something (looked like a big ball of red fluff) so I decided to make the cowl neck black along with the trim on the sleeves. I did make some modification on the sleeve trims. Since it's such a bulky yarn, you can't see the stitches so I decided to do 6 rows of double crochets instead of 27 rows of sc in back loops. I'm happy with the way it turned out and it saved time from having doing all those single crochets! You know how I love them sc :0( !!! I used a total of 6 skeins. 4 in the royal red and 2 in the sky black.

It pattern was easy to follow and I really like the look of the sweater.

I'm not crazy about the fit only because of the bulky yarn I used. It was a fun sweater to make and it worked up pretty quickly.

Anyways, here are photos of my birthday sweater:

Count Down to Birthday

Tomorrow is my birthday. Yulp, Christmas Eve baby. I'm kind of looking forward to it. Hubby is going to take us out to a nice dinner. Then it's Christmas, it seems to come up so quick!


I was going to try to finish this sweater, the Lush Cowl Neck Sweater. My goal was to have it complete by my birthday but I'm not sure if I will get it done. No sense in stressing myself out.


I used Patrons Devine yarn in making this sweater. It's a very bulky yarn, the pattern actually calls for a lighter weight mohair yarn but I decided to go with this. This is the first time using this yarn. It is a pretty yarn. There are good and bad w/ this yarn, the good being it's so soft (hubby said it looks like a big ball of cat) and the bad, of course it's hard to see the stitches (and the design of the sweater. I still need to weave in all the ends and crochet the cuff for both sleeves. As you can see, I decided to add some black to kind of give it some definition, instead of a big red fuzzy sweater.





Here's what I have so far:

Circular Shrug

It's been a great day. My husband took us out to a great lunch and then Michaels afterwards to buy new yarn! My husband watched my daughter while I was alone in Michaels looking at yarn! :D When I got home, I finished sewing up the ribbing on the sleeves and weaving in the ends. I've been dragging my feet on this project (I get bored with single crochets!) but now it's finally done! Yeah!!!! I'm always very happy to finish a project!

The circular shrug is from the book Positively Crochet! by Mary Jane Hall. I used 1 skein of Caron 1 lb. in sage. It was crocheted with a size K hook. The pattern was easy to follow. I had to redo one sleeve because I forgot to do a sc after each round. When I get distracted or too tired during crocheting, I tend to make mistakes. I had trouble keeping the right tension? because I have several little holes in it (I tried to sew most of them up)! I'm not too crazy about the color I picked but it's a good pattern and a good fit.

Here's a photo of my new shrug!

My Current Finished Crochet Wearable

This is my current finished project. It is called the Lush Lace Pullover. I started this while I was (and still am) working on the Circular Shrug. I had purchased this yarn, Wool Ease, to make another frou frou but decided against it. This is the first time I used Wool Ease, and I just love it. It was soft and easy to work with. I wanted to use a pattern specifically for this yarn. This is from a free pattern from the lion brand website.

I used 5 skeins of the Wool Ease in wheat. It is crocheted with the J hook in a size xs. My guage was off, so it's actually a size small. I was a little intimidated by the pattern at first because it was an "experienced" pattern but it's a fairly easy pattern. The were only a few minor changes I made. For the cluster, I did not use the last loop of the triple crochet and I only made the funnel neck 6" instead of 8".

I'm happy with the fit and it doesn't feel "too" heavy. I probably would of wore this out today but it's in the 70's today but feels like it's in the 80s! Sorry folks - to those who are in the cold country!

Here's a photo of me in my new pullover:

Life

It's been a fairly busy week. Thanksgiving is behind us and my Birthday and Christmas is right around the corner. I have not started Christmas shopping yet but I will probably buy most of the gifts on line!

My computer was down last week! Yikes! I'm so loss without it. We bought a new computer but ended up returning it! It took a long time to load up a page. The program in it is NOT really compatible with dial up. (There is no DSL in this area and we were considering satellite internet). I love this computer so I decided to get it fixed.

Crochet has been put on hold for most of last week. I have 2 projects I'm currently working on. The circular shrug and the Lush Lace Pullover. I can't seem to get motivated on the circular shrug. Maybe it's all the single crochet stitches. I only have to sew up the sides and make the 2 sleeves! I've been slowing getting back to the Pullover. I'm about 75% done! I love the wool ease I'm using and it's an interesting pattern. I'll write more about it on my next blog post.

Here's a photo of my daughter in one of her Christmas outfits. She's soooo cute!

Shroat

I finished this on Thanksgiving. I'm in the middle of working on my circular shrug and found this. This is a GREAT project. It was super easy, done in all double crochet - and fast! I started it on Tuesday and finished it on Thursday.


I love this pattern. The fit is great too. This is from the DIY network called Shroat. (Go into the DIY home page and search for shrug or shroat). It is done in 3 segments. 1st is the shrug then it's made into a jacket (callled shracket) then finally the shroat. It's fun to see how it turns out in the different segments. All 3 are really cute and it's worth making all three! I really enjoyed making this piece. The only change I made to this was leaving out one row of the bell sleeve. I made this using 2 skeins of Red Heart Super Saver in Dark Orchid using a P hook.

And a photo of me wearing my new shroat:

Update on my frou frou: I washed it several times to soften it up. It now has a much nicer drape and fit. I like it even more! :D

Frou Frou

My Frou Frou is complete! I was up really early this morning (around 3am) and I finished sewing the sleeves and sides today. I worked on it quite a bit today trying to get the trim done. Finally, it's finished. This particular one took a little over a week but it seemed so much longer. This was kind of a pain to do. Right from the start, I frogged this 2 other times. I also ended up frogging the collar, which turned out to be correct! It just didn't look right to be, the collar was so thick and bunchy. I re-did it the 2nd time thinking that maybe I had followed the wrong directions. Wrong, frogged it and 2 days later ended up where I left off....oh well. With the fronts, I couldn't get it to decrease following the directions of doing 2 ch then sc so I did sc decreases in the first 2 stitches .

Overall, it's not a hard pattern but I found myself having a lot of trouble with it. Interpretation maybe? I just wasn't clear on the directions for example: am I putting the stitch marker in the right spot, where's the decrease - it's the same direction as the granite stitch pattern, and I had to re-read the directions on where to crochet the 30 sc. Okay, it says right front but reading the directions confused me. It really helped looking at other people's frou frou on Ravelry and Craftster. The people were helpful too and help clear up some questions I had.

I really do love the look of this cardigan. It's so pretty but it fits me terribly! I'm so envious of the people who's frou frou look so great on! All along, I was a bit nervous on it being too small. Switching to a size N hook definately did the trick. The gauge and measurements were right on! If your making this be sure both are correct. The 2nd one I frogged, the gauge was correct but not the measurements!

I used Red Heart Super Saver and a total of 4 skeins in brown. Brown is not the color I wanted to make this in but it's the color I ended up using. I actually bought some Wool Ease to make another one but with the fit, I'll end up making something else with it.

I'm disappointed in the fit but size is perfect. It's bunchy in the front and the arm area. It may be the yarn I used which does not gave it a great drape. Still, I feel a great sense of accomplishment with having sticking it out and finishing this project. It really is pretty.

My current project

I was looking for a sweater or coat to make and I decided on this. This is from the SnB, Happy Hooker called frou frou. It wasn't exactly what I was looking for but I decided it would work.

I started out with black yarn, then re-start with beige (gauge looked correct but too small) so I tried it again in brown. 3rd times the charm! I also switched from a K hook to N hook. The gauge and schematics are finally correct. Yah. It really helped looking at other people's frou frou in Ravelry and Craftster. I realized that the previous one I was working on was too small. I actually ended up really wanting tomake this. It might of been the color in the book that I didn't really care for. I fell in love with this in gray. (I started this on Nov. 7th). Anyways, here is what I have so far.

I'm really looking forward to finishing this and see how it will look! I have a long way to go but I'll keep on crocheting!

Luxurious Lace Sweater

I finished this last night. This is from the book Total Crochet Fashions by Gayle Bunn. I've been eyeing this book for a while and when it went on clearance, I bought it. It has some nice things in there. The pattern I made is called Luxurious Lace Cowl Sweater.


















I started this project almost 2 weeks a go. I used yarn in my stash left over from the Empress Baby Doll Top. The yarn is Bernat Softee Baby in Lilac. I used a total of 3 skeins but if it was the same dye lot, I would probably only need 2! After finishing the back and 1/4 of the front, the next skein of yarn was a different color! Too late, I thought I'd make the best of it. I left it a lone for a day and then continued with this sweater. I was able to find another skein of yarn w/ the same bright, shiny purple. I thought I'd mix it in to another part of the sweater.





This is all done in a very easy shell pattern. Double Crochet and Single Crochet. The back piece was a breeze. I had trouble on the sleeve cap (and cowl). The sleeve cap took me about 3 days to do. The directions were a bit confusing to me. I didn't know if I was following the directions right because I couldn't get it to work out. Then I would frog it and try it the other way and still it wouldn't work out. I must of frogged the sleeves cap 4 to 5 times. Finally on the 3rd day, I just made some changes to the pattern and made it work. I followed the direction same for rows 1 -3 then instead of repeating last 4 rows again, I repeated rows 2 and 3 only once then follow directions for: All sizes next row (WS) and Next Row (according to directions) but did those 2 rows twice. And finished w/ size 2 and L only, work 1 row even of pattern. In case anyone is making this pattern!






I was excited to start the motifs for the cowl but started having some trouble again, so I decided to scratch it all together. I'm not sure if I was already too frustrated with it.






I really ended up liking the sweater, even w/ the different color yarn. I think it look a LOT better than the photos. The flash really brings out the 2 color tones but in person, it's more subtle. It fits well and I would wear it. In fact, I'm looking forward to wearing it. I think the cowl part of the sweater would only get in my way! I can see my daughter tugging at it. I was even considering making another one but all in yarn of the same dye lot! I probably won't because I have purchased a new pattern book and I'm slowly, very slowly working on the sweater, frou frou from the book Happy Hooker.


And of course, another picture of my beautiful daughter playing in her sand box. In the back ground is our neighbor's cat who adopted us.

Tie Front Sweater

I finished this sweater today. I started it last Tuesday. I took my time and still finished it in less than a week! I was looking for another project and I thought this would be both an easy project and it would work up fast! This is again from the book, Positively Crochet! by Mary Jane Hall.

The first one I attempted, I used the H hook using Red Heart Super Saver in a purple/blue varigated yarn but it turned out to be way too small. I'm glad I didn't give up, I decided to try again. This time I used the same type of yarn but in a red/burgandy/pink color. I also used a larger size hook, size "K". A total of 4 skeins.

I didn't make any real modifications to this sweater. The sweater fit perfect on top. I left out the flared sleeve ends and it was still too long (probably because my gage was a little off). Overall, the instructions were easy to follow.

I have to say that I am surprised by how much I like this sweater! I like it a lot better than I thought I would. It actually turned into one of my favorites! My other favorite is the Pale Shade of White Car Coat.

Here are photos of my new sweater:

I love this top so here's my blissful top revisted....

Whiter Shade of Pale Car Coat

This is my latest finished project. I finished it tonight. I probably could of finished it a few days ago but ended up re-sewing the collar a few times.

I started this project on Sunday, Oct. 7th. I finished the back on Sunday and crocheted the front on Monday and on Tuesday finished the sleeves. On Wednesday, I sewed all the pieces together then on Thursday, I crocheted the collar. I spent yesturday and today on sewing the collar on so the "edges" wouldn't show too much! I think that was the hardest part for me! I ended up using needle & thread in the end. I also had to adjust the length of the collar twice, it just wasn't long enough to go around the whole coat!

I knew I wanted my next project done using Bernat Softee Chunkee Yarn (weight 5). I had a bunch of this yarn in my stash from when I had frogged a previous project. I searched the net and books but couldn't find anything that used this yarn weight. I had seen the "whiter shade of pale car coat" from the Lion Brand catalog and I liked this coat. Pattern here: http://cache.lionbrand.com/patterns/70004A.html. They used Wool Ease Thick and Quick Yarn in a size 6 weight. I figure I would try it anyways using the yarn I had. I had the schematics so I figure I could crochet it to the size indicated and if I didn't like it or if it wasn't working out, I would just frog the project.








I used a size "K" hook and I wanted to make a size small. I had to make some changes to make up for the difference in yarn size. I followed the size for medium and added 4 more rows for the back to equal 18" total for the length. For the top half of the back, I added 2 more rows to get it to equal 8 1/2". For the front, I made the same adjustment. The sleeve was a little more work because I wanted it to look right when I added the extra rows. Rows 1-5, per directions then I repeated row 5 again. Next, the directions said for rows 6-13, repeat the last 4 rows, for 3 sets. At the end of each set, I repeated row 5 again. That gave me the extra length I needed. Total of 18 inches. I thought I needed to make the sleeves longer but it ended up being too long so I frogged the extra rows. Finally, I crocheted the edging and collar and sewed the collar on!






This was an "easy" pattern. I thought it worked up really fast! I used 5 -6 balls of The Bernat yarn in Medium Sea Green. I didn't like the collar as much, maybe because I had to sew it in. To me, I can see the seams :( Next time, I may leave the collar out and do a different edging around it.






I really do like this coat. It's not too heavy which means I'll be able to wear it during our mild winters! I'm really happy that I could make this coat work with the yarn I wanted to use!









Thanks for reading the details of my project! Now here's a few photos: :D :D :D

Easy Shrug

I finished this today. I started this project while I was doing the Not so Tangerine Top and after that the pineapple and shell skirt. I used Caron's Simply Soft in Autumn Red again. This shrug was as done in all single crochet in the back loop. It was "easy" as the name suggested. It went pretty fast considering it was all single crochet. I used a size "K" hook and only 2 skeins of the simply soft. This shrug is from the Positively Crochet book by Mary Jane Hall.

This was crocheted into a "T" shape and then sides are sewned together. The sides I sewned together are not according to directions! I'm happy with the results, it just makes it different! My shrug is more squared off at the bottom, where Mary Jane's rounded. I'll just have to make another one and this time, I'll try using a varigated yarn!

Here are some photos:

Pineapple and Shell Skirt

I started a little over a week ago. I finished it "early" this morning. I couldn't sleep so I decided to go ahead and finish it! Finishing a crochet project always makes me feel good. After I sewed the seams and the waist band, I was a lot happier with it. (It seems to always be the case with me!)


I showed my husband (he knew I was up) this morning and he said he liked it. I always have doubts about my crochet projects (will it fit, is it too thick or too heavy, did I use the right color, am I doing this right, I don't like it, etc...) but once I put the finishing touches to it, I end up liking it! I'm REALLY my own worse critic. I need to take my own advice and give myself more praise! Anyways, here are the details to the skirt:

I used Caron's Simply Soft Yarn in Autumn Red. This was the yarn in my stash. I used 2 skeins of the red and 1 skein of the black. This pattern is from the booklet "Skirts" from the American School of Needlework (2 to knit, 3 to crochet). The skirt did work up relatively fast for a shell pattern. I used a size H hook for the waist and for the first 17 rows. After that, it was smaller than I like so I changed it to a size I hook for the rest of the skirt. It gave it a nice shape to it.

I probably could of changed back to the H hook for the lower pineapple and shell (in black). The lower part of the skirt took the longest, I had to re-read the directions a few times to figure out what I was doing. My last skirt pattern was with a diagram which I thought was easier. There were a few mistakes in the pattern but I was able to figure it out.

Here are 2 pictures of the skirt, I'm not sure if you can see the pineapple in it!

The Not so Tangerine, Tangerine Top

I finished my top late last night. Here is what the original top looks like :

It is from the book Positively Cochet! by Mary Jane Hall. I fell in love with this top. I like the top on the front cover too but it's this top that inspired me to buy the book. I probably should of used the tangerine yarn but didn't. Instead, I used 2 skeins of the light pink Caron's Simply Soft and the hot pink, also SS for the edging and trim.

I made some modifications to the top, not too many. Here's the detail on making the top:

I didn't read the directions very well, because I wanted to make the small but instead was making the xs. When I was done w/ the front, it wasn't going to fit so I added 2 more rows to the front and back (total of 26 rows). The top was pretty easy to make (all back loop dc) and it worked up fast. The sleeve for me was a little more difficult for me only because I've never done a bobble before. I don't like crocheting bobbles. The first sleeve took about an hour to do. ( The sleeves I made was in a medium for a looser fit around the arms, instead of 15 chains I did 17 chains and also for the sleeve opening, I left 22 dc unworked instead of 20). IThe first bobble sleeve does not look perfect...but after that I knew what I was doing and the next day, the other sleeve came out better. I thought the color I used was too plain, so I changed the edging to a hot pink and added the trim, which was 4 chains around the bobble and 3 chains around the dc. I added extra trim to the bottom. I also decided not to use the ribbon I purchased and made my own ribbon using a sc chain. I decided to move the ribbon down 1 dc row on top and added a row of the sc chain ribbon on the bottom too.


Overall, this was a good pattern. No problems. A small would of fit fine really. I had to re-read some of the instructions a few times (only because of my inexperience as a crocheter) to figure out what I was doing. The diagram in the book helped alot. I had fun and I liked that it worked up fast.



Here's a photo of me wearing my new top :D

I've also started on the simple shrug (from the same book). Again, I'm using Caron's Simply Soft. I may put it on hold to accomplish my goal - 2 daisy squares done by the end of next week!

New Project Started!!!

I was feeling in a slump. I had finished a few projects that were lingering. I was so excited to get them done but then afterwards it was like "now what"? What do I make? I received new issues of crochet magazines and had several new crochet books I purchased not to mention patterns of skirts I purchased. Nothing jumped out at me that I really wanted to make.
I decided to try again on the charity daisy square (so cute) - yet again. The link to her website: http://krochetkrystal.blogspot.com/. I requested the help file so hopefully, I'll be able to figure out what I'm doing wrong. My goal is to have 2 squares in the mail by the end of September!

The new project I started is from the book, Positively Crochet. There are a lot of nice patterns in the book and I enjoy reading the positive notes in the book. I'm making the tangerine top, except it won't be tangerine. It's coming out fine so far. I'll write more about my journey when I'm finish with the top. Here's a link to the book in case anyone is interested. http://www.amazon.com/Positively-Crochet-Mary-Jane-Hall/dp/0896895173/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/102-4212762-3272948?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1190143688&sr=1-1

VS Skirt

FIRST OF ALL, I WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE WONDERFUL PERSON THAT HELPED ME WITH THIS SKIRT. WITHOUT YOU, THIS SKIRT WOULD NOT BE POSSIBLE. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL YOUR HELP!




I decided to finish this skirt at where I was at. I ran into the same problem as my blissful top. I'm not able to find the "perfect" match on the thread color. The last 5 balls of thread are all a different shade of the bridal white. I made some modifications to the skirt, as usual. (It seems like everything I do, there's a modification).



This is my first garment using a diagram. It was not super difficult but not having used one before, it took some getting use to. I made some errors, such as starting the rows...and following the diagram, especially when there are 2 stitches in 1. So as you can see, the pattern is different from all the other VS skirts but that's okay. It gave it a unique look that's mine. Enough about the errors but on to more positive things...



I used approx. 3 balls of the Aunt Lydia size 3 fashion thread with a F hook. With the F hook it's definately more of a lacy look to it. The waist was big so I did some tc across it to string a ribbon on it. (Great suggestion from my husband). I love the ribbon I used.



I will probably make this skirt again next summer. Next time I'll know how to do the pattern better. It was a good experience. Overall, I still have a skirt that I'm happy with.



As usual, here's a photo:

Blissful Top COMPLETE!!!

I'm happy to say again, that my Blissful top is COMPLETE. I've had some up and down with this top. I love the pattern. It was a relatively easy top to do. I did not like the bra top - too small and not enough coverage so I frogged the whole bra top and redid it. I made it a lot bigger, longer (added a few more rows around the waist) and wider (for extra coverage) and made the straps into 1 to go around the neck instead of 2 straps. I also added edging around the bra top and the sides in a aqua color (also by J & P Coats). See below.


I love the color. It's aqua from J & P Coats LusterSheen. I had traded some matrix yarn for 3 balls of this yarn (thread actually...). The 3 balls were not enough to complete the top. I searched high and low for this yarn in the same exact color but I could not find it. A very nice member of Crochetville had sent me 3 more balls of this yarn (which I used for the trim and the side) but the color was different. After some research, I found that what I had was discontinued but the RH Lustersheen was the same . Excited, I order the RH LS in mint from JoAnn's. When the yarn arrived, the colors did not match. I'm glad that I had not frogged the edging that I had previously started. After a few days, I decided to finish it anyways and buy new ribbons.


I am happier w/ the new ribbons and the blocking which made the top look better.

Here it is at last~

Front and Back:

And here's another photo which included my beautiful daughter :D

Parenthood and VS Progress

Being a parent is not easy but it's so worth it.. I took my beautiful daughter for a follow up today. It was nerve wrecking! I waited almost 2 hours to see her doctor. It's longer than what I wanted to wait but it was worth it. She's worth it. I didn't want her to be just another "number". Her current doctor really cares and he takes the time to answer my questions and he even admits it when his office makes a mistake! The last doctor she had, I didn't really care for her or her staff. I felt I was "bothering" her when I asked her a question, and when I asked her to re-explain things, she would get annoyed. She only had a few minutes to talk to me before she was out the door. So, if I have to wait 2 hours to get good service for a doctor who I feel cares for my daughter, it's all worth it. After the doctor's appointment, it was off to the hospital to get some blood work done. That was the worse part. It was harder on me than it was on her. I have an awesome, brave and did I mention beautiful and smart - daughter.

My daugher fell a sleep early tonight. It's a long day for her. I took this free time to do some crocheting on my vs skirt. Here's the progress before the 2 rows I crocheted tonight. I really like the pattern. It's really cool! Here it is:

I ordered the book simply crochet last night. I can't wait to get it. There's some really nice patterns in there. I already have too many projects but I couldn't resist. I also like to get my ebay store up and running before the end of the month. At least that 's my goal. So many things to do and so little time! It's a great life and you gotta love it!

Out of Yarn and Progess on VS Skirt

My blissful top is still on hold - yet again. A very nice person had sent me 3 skeins of J & P Luster Sheen. I tried to finish the top yesturday but I didn't like it. The colors didn't match up and I thought I could make it work but I just wasn't happy with it. I discovered that the yarn (thread) I had was discontinued and the RH Lustersheen should be the same. So, I went on line and after some searching, found it and ordered it. I figure with the free shipping at JoAnn's, I order some of additional yarn/thread. I bought 4 skeins of the RH Lustersheen, (1 Mint, 2 brown and 2 red) and 3 balls of Aunt Lydia Thread (2 tan and 1 violet) and a booklet w/ 5 different skirt pattern. Cant' wait to get the package!



My Victoria Secret skirt is coming along fine. I don't have as much free time to crochet. My beautiful daughter is keeping me busy! Here's what I have so far....

I'm using Aunt Lydia size 3 fashion thread in Wedding White. The hook I'm using is a size F. Next time I'll use a smaller hoook to get a tighter stitch pattern.

My WIPS (work in progress)

I've been at a stopping point with the Blissful top. I ran out of yarn. I didn't want to add another color. Lucky for me, a member of Crochetville is going to send me the yarn, free!

What a wonderful person. So...I'm going to wait for the rest to come in before I add the finishing touches to it. I'd like to put edging on the top and also I need to add few more rows to the back edges. Here it is so far....

I'll add details of the top when I'm completely finished and I'll also add a photo of the top from the book.

I also started making a doily. I have never had any interest in making one but lately I'm really into the pineapple pattern (inspired by the Victoria Secret Skirt obsession). I ordered the olivia pineapple skirt, which I really liked it and thought it would be a good alternative to the VS Skirt. My other thought was to make the skirt in the Amazing Lace book but it really wasn't exactly what I wanted. I'm happy to say that I started on my VS Skirt yesturday!~ I went out and bought more thread today. 5 more balls of the Aunt Lydia beige.

Blissful

My current crochet project is called "blissful" from the Happy Hooker SnB book. I'm done with the lower half. I'm using thread that I received when I traded off the matrix yarn. It's a beautiful aqua color. The only problem, I'm not going to have enough to finish the whole top.
I've been searching the net and ebay but no luck on the color. I think it may be discontinued. No problem, I'll just improvise and use a different thread all together. I have a bunch of Luster Sheen that is similiar in color or use the Aunt Lydia thread. Gives me a reason to shop!

I just purchased 6 balls of the Aunt Lydia thread today. 3 balls of white and 3 balls of beige. The store was very limited in colors. It's so inexpensive and I like the way the thread looks when I'm making something w/ a lace look. I was surprised that with the pattern I'm using, it's going quite fast. For thread, it usually takes forever! No pictures to post at this time.

Life is back to normal since returning from my vacation. I really miss some the family members. I'm not as motivated in getting my crochet done! The weather's still in the 100s but we've been getting some rain, so it's more bearable. I love the rain. :D

I have a jasmine plant that my daughter received from her uncle on her B'Day. It's beautiful and the blooms are starting to blossom. Smells so beautiful. I'm looking forward to those nice comfortable fall days when I can sit on the porch w/ my daughter and husband on the swing and enjoy the wonderful fragrance of the flowers overlooking the peace and tranquility of the lake.
It's a great and wonderful life!

The World's Greatest DOG

When I started this blog, it was mostly to talk about crochet but now I'm expanding. I guess I'm evolving. I'm evening adding photos with my face!

I had searched for a good photo of my dog (last year) but couldn't find one. There was one in my old camera. I could not copy or transfer the photo. I bought a dock printer and finally used it a few days ago. My new camera didn't work in it so I had to use the old camera. Surprise, I was able to print the photo w/ my dog in it that I had wanted to print over a year ago! You can't image my glee!

My dog has passed away in March of 2006. She was over 10 years old. She's a black lab and she was given to me as a present when she was only 4 to 6 weeks old. She has travelled with us all over the country. From one end of the country to the other and back.

She has been my friend, companion and protector. I couldn't ask for a better dog. She even taught me how to love unconditionally. She was a part of the family. It was a very sad day when I lost her. Since then, we had not been able to get another dog. So, I'm very excited add a photo here with her in it. I wanted to make her a part of my blog because she's so special and so loved.

She's Officially 2 years old and My Short N' Sweet

My beautiful darling daughter is 2 years old! We had a great day with her on her birthday. We took her to the park even in the hot weather. She loved it! We also gave her an ice cream cake.

It was a great day for all of us! She's our pride and joy.

We just returned from our trip to New York! It was a short trip 5 days total. I finished the Short n' Sweet bolero on my trip up to NY. I had started the bolero after the lacy days of summer top. Half way through, I got bored with it. I was having a hard time with the pattern. I couldn't figure out what I was doing wrong! I later found out that there were errors in the pattern! Phew, it's not ME!!!! Yuppeee. After a week or so away from the bolero, I decided to finish it anyways. I was motivated by a member of Crochetville who had finished hers. After a short time away, I had to remember how to do the pattern again. I made some improvising because of the errors in the pattern. It doesn't look exactly like the book but I'm still happy with it over all.

I used Caron's SS yarn, which I felt was too thick. It was coming out too big, so I made it smaller. Again, the pattern is slightly different from that in the book, Happy Hooker's Stitch n' Bitch. It's something that I would wear. It's not my best work but I'm super happy it's done because the design was more difficult than what I was use to. I'm also glad I didn't tear everything out because the edging really added to the bolero.

Anyways, here's a photo of me wearing it. :D

Empress Baby Doll Top (w/ Modifications)

This is such an exciting week for me. My darling daughter's birthday is 2 days away! She'll be 2 years old. It's been the GREATEST 2 years of my life. She's the light of my life and I'm so
greatful for her.

CROCHET TALK :D

I've order a bunch of old crochet magazines and also the spring issue of Crochet Today. I've been checking the mail everyday to see if they came in! I can't wait to get my hands on them.

The top that I made is from the Spring Issue of the Interweave Magazine. You can check out the photo here: www.interweavecrochet.com/2007/spring/materials_list.asp#empress

To the right is my version of the Top. Somewhat different. I purchased the yarn from Hobby Lobby last month, as a reward to myself after finishing the Lacy Days of Summer Top.

On July 29, I started the top using a size D hook. After 3 days of work, on row 17 - I was at a cross road. I was making a size medium and it was coming out too big. I didn't want to undo it all but my husband knew I wouldn't be happy if I tried to fix it. A voice of reason! So on August 1, I restarted the project. (My goal was to finish this top before the 12th). I decided this time to use a size F hook and check the schematics so the top is the right size. I was much happier using the size F hook but it changed the gauge completely because of the thicker yarn.


The upper part of the top was no problem. I overlapped 7 shells. To be honest, I was afraid that it was going to be too small because instead of being 16 inches across, I made it about 14 1/2 but I figure it would stretch a bit.

The lower half was a little more work. I experimented with different hooks. The very 1st rings, I used a size D hook then changed to a size F hook for the first pattern set. After that I changed to a size G Hook after the 1st row of the 2nd set of pattern. I didn't do a 3rd set of the pattern, but did another row 2 -4 . On row 2, I kept the same G Hook then changed to a size 7 hook for the remaining rows. To finish, I crocheted 6 sc in each ch 5. The top is not real wide at the bottom, it's a bit more form fitting for me. To finish, I crocheted 6 sc in each ch 5 space.

I wasn't sure if I would like the lower half of the Top because mine had so many holes! I didn't want it to be too revealing! I tried it on and wore it with a skirt. It didn't show too much "skin" as I thought so I am happier.

My husband said I'm too hard on myself because I'm so critical of myself. I do like the top and I'm glad it's finish. Overall, this was a good pattern. I had less trouble with this pattern than my previous top(s). Maybe I'm getting better at crocheting! I did enjoy making this top and best of all, goal accomplished and I have a top I'm proud to wear! :D

More Photos of the 2007 Rimfire Sporter National Champion

Finally, the photos are posted on the website for http://www.odcmp.com/. Click on **NEW** CMP Event Photos, in the middle of the screen. Then Arrown down and click on the National Rimfire Match to view more photos from the competition!

I am so proud of my husband!!! He had started training in the beginning of the year for the Rimfire Sporter National Competition, held in Camp Perry Ohio. Once he made up his mind, he started training. I saw all the hard work he put into his training.

It's so great that all that hard work paid off. With GOD, Hard Work and Determination, he won!!!! For the first time competing in a National Competition, he did GREAT!!!

Below is a picture of him getting the gold metal.

I couldn't be more proud of him! :D :D :D

HERE HE IS, THE NATIONAL CHAMPION

I'm a proud wife, the new 2007 Rimfire Sporter National Champion!

My Husband the NEW 2007 Rimfire Sporter National Champion

It's been quite an exciting month. My hubsand is the 2007 Rimfire Sporter National Champion!!!!!! This was his first time competing in the National match in Camp Perry Ohio and I'm very proud to say, he WON!!! It is sooo awesome. I'll have to post some photos later. The website is http://www.odcmp.com/ (for the T class under Rimfire Sporter Results).



As a reward, we took a mini get away to Ft. Myer, Florida. It was very HOT and humid. We got to see our uncle, aunt, sister in law and nieces. We took a nice boat ride along the intercoastal water ways and saw some dolphins up close! We didn't see any crocs or manatees this time.

On the way to Floriday, (long 9 hour drive), I made this bag. My 2 beautiful nieces are holding the bag for me! I made another one while I was there but I didn't like the color. I gave this bag to my sister in law.

I am half way through with the short n' sweet bolero but I decided to take a break from it. I found out I had the first print of the SnB and there were several typos in the patterns. No wonder, I couldn't get it to come out right! I finally just improvised and got it to work but now I'm bored with it and I'm gone on to another project. I started the Baby Empress Top yesturday. I'll keep everyone posted of my progress with that top.

Lacy Days of Summer Top Finished

Friday the 13th is not an unlucky day! I finished the Lacy Days of Summer Top late last night.

Wow, this top took me a long time! Over a month. I did start several projects in the middle of it all. I finished a baby blanket, started knitting and almost finished a vest (except I ran out of yarn). This has been quite a learning experience!

I definately consider myself a novice crocheter. Tackling an experience pattern were trying at times. After several attempts, I finally got the front to look somewhat like a circle! From there, I crocheted the back and went on to do the arms and finally the sleeve. I was excited to sew the pieces together. To my disappointment, it was too large. It looked like an off the shoulder shirt! I thought I was going to have to scratch this and start everything over. I decided to take a break from it. After several days, I decided that I could try and undo the pieces. I was able to salvage the sleeves, surprising. I didn't realize how well of I job I did trying to weave in my ends. It took me 2 other tries to finally get the sleeves right, where it fits me. I was glad to say that I finally have the top done.

I still wasn't sure if I wanted to make it into a baby doll top or the dress. As I worked the rounds to the dress, I was starting to get worried. It seem to be getting too wide too quickly. After about 8 to 10 rounds, I ripped everything out! Frustated again, I decided to put this on the back burner. In the mean time, I asked for help from a member of crochetville for some help. Thank you for her help! I decided to re-start again on Wednesday. This time, I made sure I was not increasing when I worked on the dress. It went pretty quick from there. I decided that I was going to make it into a baby doll.

I love this top! It's worth all the frustation I went through. It's a beautiful top. I really love it.

I'm so excited to have finished this so here's a picture.

As a reward, I went to Hobby Lobby in Warner Robins (about 1 hr 40 min) away and bought myself 8 skeins of yarn, 4 in purple and 4 in peach, 1 pair of knitting needles and a stitch counter. I deserve it! I'm glad my husband's so supportive of my crocheting and allowing me to buy all the yarn I want. What a great husband!

***********It's amazing what we crocheters and knitters can do with a ball of yarn!***********

Homespun Baby Afghan

I was suppose to finish the Lacy Days of Summer top but I hit a little glitch! In stead of tearing it all out, I decided to take a break from it. My husband wanted me to crochet a baby blanket for a friend so I thought it would be a good time to start. I started yesturday and I finished it today! Not bad at all.

The blanket is made from 3 skeins of Homespun Yarn. I love the yarn, it's soooo soft. It worked up fast with a size N crochet hook. The pattern is from: http://members.aol.com/_ht_a/lffunt/babyghan.htm

The afghan is actually lavender but the in the picture it looks blue...It's so easy to make and fast! I modified the edging a bit. As always, I'm always glad to complete a project. Mission complete!!!

Baby Booties

I'm still working on the "lacy days of summer" top. I finished the front and back fan piece. I decided to take a little break and make my 1st pair of booties. I purchased the pattern from etsy for $3.00. (I don't have the link on hand right now...) It is so worth it! All the booties were adorable. This is going to be for my newphew's son so I didn't make the cuffs. (I messed up a little sewing the top of the bootie). I love the way they look!

These booties are called Cross your Heart - Crocheted Booties by Cheryl Mason.

I purchased more yarn yesturday (and also today). Did I already mention that I was a yarn junkie? My next project will be a sleeveless top with Red Heart Light & Lofty yarn. I purchased new knitting hooks too. They are a size 15. Hopefully, it'll be a easy project that will work up super fast. I am going to attempt to try knitting again after I finish my lacy days of summer top.

I did not know there's a hook out there that's a size 7 until recently. The size 7 aluminum crochet hook is super small, but this size 7 is 4.5mm. I started to make a crocheted string bag yesturday (okay, so I have several ongoing project but I'm going to make the Lacy Days of Summer Top my top priority). I keep learning something new all the time!

Mommy Story and The Fashion Top Completed!

My daughter does not like stuff animals. Usually she takes them and just throws them on the floor and that's the end of it.

Yesturday, while I was at the market I had to play the "drop and grab" game. It was calling me.

I only had 50 cents (No dollar bills and no other quarters). What the heck, since there are new stuff animals in the machine. I wasn't feeling very lucky, but the arm drops and I grabbed for a yellow "goofy" dog. It barely got the legs so I'm doubtful. Yes, it's going to make it. Score!

I'm like a big kid. I gave it to my daughter in the car and she just drops it on the floor! Oh well.

Later during the day, I see the dog in various places. I ask my husband if he moved it, and he said no. I actually saw her with the dog a few times. Now this morning, I put the dog next to my daughter and she was playing with it, if only for a few minutes! I love being a mommy...I have a great daugher :D!

Now on to crochet.....

Here's the completed project! I finished this on Saturday, day before Father's Day! (My husband laughs at me because I cropped my face out of the photo)! My "1st" again using THREAD! Size 3, Aunt Lydia thread! It was fun and I love the top. I love the look of thread and I love the stitch. I had to redo part of the back but no problem. Next time, I will make it in a medium. It's too small but that's okay. Another lesson for the books.

I purchased another set of knitting needles. 4.5. I was going to make an "easy" top. I looked through the book (SnB, Knitting) and started to cast on and even made several rows of knitting (purl too)! This project will have to be for another time. Knitting will take me too long!

My current project is the "lacy days of summer" top. I will probably make it into a baby doll top. I love how this top looks and what some of the other crocheters have made. It's an "experience" pattern so I was a little scared. It's taking me several tries to get it right, but I think I got it now. Take a look! Can't wait to finish this one :D!