Greetings Friends and Welcome! I hope this Halloween finds all of you enjoying more treats than tricks! Mother Nature is doing her best to keep us on our toes. We were fortunate here in north central Massachusetts to be spared from the brutality of hurricane Sandy. It was wet and windy, but nothing like our neighbors to the south had to endure. Our wishes and prayers for all of you who were affected for a quick and safe recovery. Do any of you journal? I've kept a journal of some sort since I was a teenager. Over the years I've used all kinds: spiral notebooks, composition books (a fave), special books with fancy covers and decorated paper, day planners and even locking diaries. The content has changed as often as the books. It's been poetry and short stories, ramblings of the unrequited love every young girl feels, a record of my pregnancy, and often just a catch all for how my day has been. Recently my journals are including more crafting and art leading me towards mixed media journaling. I've never been able to get into scrap booking, but the idea of including tactile bits and pieces of my day along with words and drawings (or doodling!) is really appealing. My new interest is reflected in my reading materials this week. Raw Art Journaling, The Journal Junkies Workshop, Artist's Journal Workshop and the Sketchbook Challenge all have something to offer. Lessons on technique and suggestions for entries are the most helpful as I find new ways to express the creative spirit inside me. I'm also using my journal to plan and record the progress of my projects. It's really different from the things I write here or the information on a Rav project page. It's less formal and gives me the opportunity to be messy and make mistakes! It can also be very solitary and private. Quite the opposite of what you'll find should you decide to join a CAL! 5 Reasons to Join a CAL (or the a-long of your choice!)
There are other reasons too. They are great for blogging about. Sometimes there are prizes. If you loose your motivation you can always count on the group to get you going again. Timelines (if there are any) help keep you focused. Did I mention all the friends you'll make? If you don't have a crochet or knitting club in your area, joining an a-long is like being a member of a virtual club. Currently I'm participating in two CALs. Both are being hosted by talented, creative women who I've come to know through their blogs. Denise from Voie de Vie has recently published her first ebook of patterns titled Accessories: Autumne 2012. I was lucky enough to win a copy, so of course when Denise announced a JAL (join-a-long) I had to jump right in! Her Ravelry group is here, and you'll find all the information to get a copy of her book or to join us making one of the lovely projects she's designed. I'm making the Slouching Towards Tassels hat in a rich red wool (that's it in the picture with my journal and books). Marie from Underground Crafter is not only a great writer (she is the queen of interviews and (craft) book reviews), she is also an experienced teacher. Her talents shine in The Ripple Mania CAL which actually feels more like a (free!) class than a CAL. Each week Marie is providing us with a detailed lesson. What's great is how much information there is, and how easy it is to use. So far we've learned about choosing colors and the basics of the ripple. The flexibility of this CAL is fantastic, because we get to pick what we want to make and what technique we want to use. If your interested in this crochet technique you definitely should come over and take a look. You'll find everything right here at her Ravelry group. When I decided to join Marie's CAL I didn't know what I was going to make, I only knew that I wanted to use the yarn that I had leftover from the Granny Square Project. Searching patterns on Ravelry I found this - Inspiration for my Ripple Mania Project - The Groovyghan!
Is this totally awesome? I think that this might be the perfect use for all of those squares that I made while I was learning about granny, don't you? I've been struggling to come up with something to do with them, and the Groovyghan seems to be ideal! I haven't got it all figured out yet, but I'm on my way! Wednesday is a busy day and there's always lots to see. I'm joining these lovely ladies and all the other talented crafters who share their projects. Stop by for a dose of inspiration, you won't be disappointed! Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me! Until next time friends, Be blessed and stitch & read with love! Today's post is the final for Blogtoberfest 2012. Wow!! It's not too late to visit other participating bloggers. Click the graphic and see what you've been missing! Also, keep watch for my summary of the event - coming soon!! And just because... This picture was taken by our 16 year old son Seth. Why am I including it? Because he loves photography, this is the first picture that he's ever had published, and most importantly because I'm a proud momma! Yes, it's only our local paper, but everyone has to start somewhere!! No man has the right to dictate what other men should perceive, create or produce, but all should be encouraged to reveal themselves, their perceptions and emotions, and to build confidence in the creative spirit.
Ansel Adams
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Greetings my friends and welcome! As I'm writing on this early October morning the sun has yet to rise, and what the day has in store is yet to be revealed. I'm certain of one thing. Fall has arrived in New England and with it the splendor of colors so rich and intense they simply take my breath away! The changing leaves are harbingers of the cold weather that will soon embrace us. What better way to prepare for the winter than by making a new wool hat in a deep rich autumn red? But how to pick a pattern? Last week I was fortunate to receive a "hot off the press" copy of the new e-Book, Accessories: Autumne 2012 from Denise at Voie de Vie. The Slouching Towards Tassels Cap caught my eye and seems like an excellent choice. An added bonus is a JAL over at Denise's group on Ravelry. Happiness all around!! As you can see, I've only just begun. My observations so far: I like that the ribbing is worked flat and then joined (it makes the fpdc and bpdc much easier!); and I haven't worked with a "rough" wool like this for a while. I forgot how different it is from the "smooth" finishes I've been spending so much time with. It's not a bad thing, it just takes a different type of action to pull loops through. The soft peachy piece is the Marlo Cardigan that I started a few weeks (okay a month) ago. I'm a few inches from finished with the back panel. It's a beautiful fabric and I think it's going to be a nice sweater. Fit is my real concern. My experience is so limited with garments, that I really don't know what to do other than measure and follow the pattern. We'll see. John has been putting in some time making stitch markers this week. That's what the bit of sparkle on the red yarn is. He's refined his technique and they're coming out very nicely. Right now we're continuing to build quality stock. Our hope is to do a bit of the craft fair circuit next year as well as to open an Etsy shop. But that's a story for another day! Wednesday is book day, and you know how much I love books! This month I'm celebrating the Halloween season by reading (and listening to) titles of a spooky, supernatural nature! I just finished the book that's reviewed today and am poised to begin Crewel (Crewel World) by Gennifer Albin. This is YA title that was suggested to me by my coworker (the other Robin at our small library!) because of it's ties to weaving and fibers being worked together to form something new and different. It's quite a way outside of my normal reading choices, but seems appropriate and in keeping with my October theme. Time will tell, and I'll be sure to let you know! A Review in the Spirit of All Hallows Eve The Witch's Daughter by Paula Brackston Thomas Dunne Books January 18, 2011; 320 Pages "My name is Elizabeth Anne Hawkesmith, and my age is three hundred and eighty-four years. Each new settlement asks for a new journal, and so this Book of Shadows begins...." In the spring of 1628 young Bess Hawkesmith learns that decisions made in desperation carry consequences that last a life-time, even if that means forever. The plague has taken the lives of her father, brother and sister. When Bess falls ill her mother does the only thing she can to save her daughter. She turns to the warlock Gideon Masters, and makes a deal that will cost her her life. Once known as a talented healer she is accused of witchcraft by townsfolk who refuse to believe that Bess' miraculous recovery was the result of her skills alone. Unable to deny the accusation she meets her fate on the Hanging Tree, but not before making Bess promise that she will seek protection from the only one with the power to save her - Gideon. Under his guidance Bess learns to master the Craft, awakening powers she didn't know she had while also making her immortal. When the people of town turn their aggressions on Bess she realizes that she must escape - from the Hanging Tree and from Gideon and a his dangerous black magic. She couldn't know that he will persue her through time, determined to possess her and the power they could produce together. In present day England Elizabeth finds herself settled into a quite life. Alone she tends her gardens, and sells herbs and oils at the local market. Her solitary life is abruptly disrupted when a teenage girl called Tegan begins hanging around. Against her instincts Elizabeth takes pleasure in her company and her perceptive nature. Soon she begins teaching the ways of the hedge witch. Tegan is an eager pupil, and Elizabeth uses tales of long ago to school her in what it's like to be a witch, and how she came to be who she is today. But what of Gideon? Has he finally given up or is he just patiently waiting for an opportunity to capture Elizabeth and make her his own?? It seemed fitting to read a book about witches this Halloween. I was drawn into this story right off the bat, although I did struggle a bit with the prologue. I filled it away with the hopes that it would make sense by end (it did, mostly...). There was an easy flow between the past and present as I got to know Elizabeth and Tegan. The stories from the past were interesting little vignettes that were unique on their own, but fit together to create a picture of who present day Elizabeth really is. There is a fair amount of "magic speak" that was foreign to me. Even thought I didn't understand the exact language (or words) I was able to glean enough of their meaning from the context. I suppose that's to be expected in a book about witches and magic. There are scenes of pretty graphic violence and the descriptions of some of the evil elements and even Gideon himself are quite vivid, resulting in some intense imagery. I can imagine the special effects for a movie version would be very frightening indeed! I moved quickly through the book and in no time found myself nearing the end. I had in mind how I thought things might turn out, and I saw the potential for a variety of scenarios. And while I won't tell you how it all ended, I will tell you that I was disappointed. I felt gypped. It almost seems like Ms. Brackston just wanted to be done, and went with the most cliche ending while of course leaving plenty of threads that could be picked up in a sequel. In summary I'd say it was a good book with some interesting bits of history mixed with a few different relationships, dappled with magic and wrapped up with a predictable bow. Not bad for a seasonal selection, but I won't be going out of my way to read book two should it appear! Wednesdays are a busy day for sharing projects and making new friends! I'll be linking up with this lovely group of ladies. Each one has something uniquely wonderful to offer. I hope that you'll stop in for a visit, and feel free to join the fun!
Greetings my lovelies and welcome! October is whizzing by. Halloween is on the horizon with Thanksgiving and Christmas ready to rush in. My hook has been in constant motion and if I'm not working on a project I'm planning for them. That means lots of pattern searching and yarn/supply shopping! And while I haven't actually completed any gifts I intend to give, I have several in the works. I'm sure that there will be a frantic push to finish including crocheting after midnight with copious amounts of coffee. As much as I wish, hope and pray this won't happen I'm relatively certain it will. No matter how hard I try I am a last minute, in just under the wire kinda gal. Always have been, and I imagine I always will be! Today I'm pleased to report that I'm making fantastic time with the Little Wing Shawlette. What a difference in terms of time and technique from the recently completed Juliana. I made a modification right off the bat using a traditional Fsc instead of the method indicated in the pattern. There was a bit of a struggle at Row 2, but a good night's sleep offered a fresh perspective and once I figured it out it seemed so obvious I don't know why it gave me trouble to start with! Now just 9 days after starting I'm only a few rows from the end which makes this one of my quickest finishes. Another bonus is it appears that I'll have enough yarn left to make a pair of matching wrist warmers using my favorite Chevron Lace Pattern from Colour in a Simple Life. Yeah! On the book front just for fun I've been keeping with the Halloween theme enjoying two witchy selections. I just started reading the Witch's Daughter by Paula Brackston and in the kitchen I've been listening to Waking the Witch by Kelley Armstrong. Happily both of them are entertaining and are keeping me in the otherworldly spirit of the season! Also for you today I have a review of an eerily relevant story. Could this really happen? Image life after "the Big Shake".The Last Book in the Universe by Rodman Philbrick Blue Sky Press March 1, 2012; 224 Pages "Nobody around here reads anymore, Why bother, when you can just use a mindprobe needle and shoot all the images and excitement right into your brain? I've heard of books, but they were long before I was born. In the backtimes, before the Big Shake, when everything was supposedly perfect and everybody lived rich." These are the words of Spaz, a teenager living, rather surviving in the Urb. A desolate wasteland ruled by gangs who control everything. Where you live, what you eat, what you do - everything. Everything except Eden. Eden is as close to perfect as you can get in the post-bigshake world. But the only people who inhabit Eden are the Proovs - that's short for genetically improved human. Spaz earns his keep working for the leader of his section of the Urb. When he gets an order to rob a gummy (an old man) named Ryter, Spaz doesn't think twice. What he doesn't know is that his life - and life for everyone in the Urb is never going to be the same. A series of events finds Spaz, Ryter, an orphan called little face and a Proov named Lanaya on a mission to first see - then save Spaz's little sister Bean. As they search for a solution it becomes clear that a much larger task is at hand. What starts as a trip across the Urb becomes a journey that will change their world! Okay, I'll admit this is way outside of my normal reading box. It's Young Adult Science Fiction. But after I commented to a patron how much I loved A Wrinkle in Time (which she and her son were reading) she asked if I'd ever read this book. Learning that I hadn't she encouraged me to give it a try. She seemed to think that as a librarian and book lover I should have this one under my belt. And of course she was right. While the writing is a bit well, young, the story isn't it. The world that Philbrick has created is scary and real. It seems plausible that this could happen. In his characters we see the best of humanity under the worst conditions. This unlikely group faces adversity, clings to hope and questions authority. It's a story that makes you stop and think and at any level in any genre that is what makes a good book. And while I don't know that it'll make my all time favorite list I am glad I read it, and I would suggest that it be included as one of those books we all should read. Who knows when we might one day find ourselves experiencing our own big shake. Because just moments before I sat down to write this review, right here in central Massachusetts we had an earth quake that was strong enough to shake our house and everything in it - even waking my sleeping husband - now tell me that's not a little bit scary?! Wednesday is a wonderful day for linking up and sharing your work. Today I'm joining my regular group of blogging buddies. I hope you'll take a look at some fun projects and add one of your own!
Greetings friends! I'd like to thank all of you who lent a hand helping me select which project to work on by casting a vote. Are you ready for the funny part - it was a tie! The shawls won hands down, but without a clear high score I had to go ahead and just pick. I decided to go with the Little Wing Shawlette and make it in the Amazing yarn. I like the versatility of this shawlette because it has all the lacy drape of a shawl with the functionality of a scarf. Also, it's a worsted weight yarn worked with a generously sized hook (US K) which means it should go quickly. I've been doing a lot of work with little hooks lately and both my eyes and wrists need a break. It's worked from the long edge - which I typically avoid, because I like the flexibility that working from the tip give you. And I find those long starting chains a bit unmanageable. This one begins with a Foundation Single Crochet (Fsc) which is a little better. I did run into a bit of confusion on the second row. My symmetrical, orderly brain did not want to follow the instructions and work off center. But thanks to the Ravelry project page I was able to 1) review other people's notes 2) study the pictures and 3) contact the designer to make sure I'm doing the right thing! I forged ahead and completed the row as written. I feel confident that in a few more rows the balance that I crave will be restored and all will be right in the universe! That's my Marlo Coat (I'm going to change the name to Marlo Cardigan, because to me that's just what it is!) in the picture too. It's a beautiful fabric that is (unfortunately) mind-numbingly simple to make. I've been working on it during breaks at work - and at the end of the day when I don't dare concentrate on anything tricky. I know it's going to be lovely - I just have to keep the mojo working and not let the simplicity of the rows deter me! This week I'm reading a young adult novel called The Last Book in the Universe by Rodman Philbrick. It's a bit sci-fi/fantasy for my usual taste, but it was highly recommended by a trusted patron as a must read for someone who loves books as much as I do. Even though it's a genre I normally shy away from I can safely say that I am enjoying it way more than the book I've reviewed for you today. Take a look... Imperfect - yes; Bliss - not even close Imperfect Bliss by Susan Fales-Hill Atria Books July 3, 2012; 304 pages The pretty pink cover, the Victorian inspired art-work and the proclamation of the novel inside being Jane Austin meets Reality TV are the reasons I selected this book. I can’t for the life of me figure out what forces kept me reading past the first few chapters. Here’s the storyline: Elizabeth (aka: Bliss) is a recently divorced single mother who is “temporarily” living at home while perusing her PhD. She is one of 4 sisters. Her mother is obsessed with British royalty so much that the girls have all been given the first name “Princess” or “Queen” and she wants nothing more than to marry her daughters off to rich men who will improve their station (yes this is a contemporary novel). Mother’s prayers are answered and Bliss’ nightmares come true when her sister Dianna is selected to be the star of the latest reality offering – The Virgin. Lives are turned upside down as the TV series takes over. It could be funny. It could be a witty poke at the horror that is reality TV. It could be many things. To me, it was a mess. Bliss had potential, in fact all the characters had potential, but none of them were fully flushed out. And what I did get to know of them I didn’t care for. I don’t expect that I will love every character. But I do expect that at least the main players will be given enough life so that I understand the reasons for their behavior. There was a peek at the ‘back stories’ but that’s all. Had they been given more attention I might have embraced this dysfunctional family and their bizarre behavior. Instead I was annoyed with most of them and felt sorry for the rest. So why then did I keep reading until the end? Hope, maybe? I kept thinking that it would get better. That it should get better. For me, that never happened. And in the interest of finding out how it ends, I did that sort of ‘skimming’ that I do when I’m not committed enough to read every word. Too bad. It’s a good idea for a book. And even though I gave it ample opportunity to win me over, in the end I was left feeling a misled and disappointed. I say leave this one be and if you want something that’s “like” Jane Austin stick with the original! Wednesday is a busy day with several great link parties. This week I'm joining in with these bloggers and the creative crafters who share their work. Click around and see what's happening. I guarantee you'll find something that makes you say wow! Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me!
Until next time friends, Be blessed and stitch & read with love! Greetings friends! Welcome to another busy Wednesday at Crochet Nirvana. Can you believe that there are just 82 days until Christmas? While that make seem like ample time, I am acutely aware of how quickly it races by! And, despite my good intentions I am woefully ill-prepared for the gift-giving part of the season. This week, in between work, family and my other crochet pursuits I have vowed to devote at least a portion of each day's crafting time to the holidays. A set of embellished towels is taking shape. I originally thought that I would use individual mini squares across the bottom edge. Then I thought - I wonder what a long granny style rectangle would look like? Since I wanted to try the yellow and white anyway I went ahead and made this piece. John and I both like the way it looks, however I remain unconvinced that this is the color scheme to use. What do you think of the white on white? I'm going to applique the rectangle to one end, and the squares to the other before I make my final decision. I've never sewn a piece of crochet work to fabric. I'd love to hear your suggestions or tips if you've done it already!!
Wednesday is book day! That means I get to spread a little literary love! Right now I'm reading a new release (July 2012) called Imperfect Bliss by Susan Fales-Hill. Library Journal calls it "Chick lit with an intellectual streak." but I'm not sure that I'd agree. Really I don't know how I feel about this story that the jacket describes as "Reality TV - Jane Austen Style!" I'm only a few chapters in and I'm just getting to know everyone! Without a doubt I can tell you how I feel about this week's book in review ~ I Loved It!! Keep reading to find out why! A Surprising Story Brimming with Emotion and Flooded with Humanity The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce Random House Publishing July 24, 2012; 336 Pages Harold is a simple man. He and his wife Maureen live a simple life in a small English village. He has recently retired from the brewery where he worked, well always. Maureen thinks that Harold is dull. Everything that he does irritates her just slightly. Predictably, the mail arrives just as it does everyday. But this time there is something different among the bills and adverts. A letter has come for Harold from a woman he hasn't seen or heard from in twenty years. Queenie Hennessey is gravely ill and has written to say goodbye. Harold is surprised by the letter. He hasn't even thought of Queenie in years. Regardless, proper English etiquette requires that he at least acknowledge her letter with one of his own. Quickly Harold jots a few lines, and heads out to post the letter. When he reaches the mailbox on the corner he finds that he's not quite ready to let the letter go. He continues on from box to box venturing out of his neighborhood. Then, following a chance encounter with a young girl in a convenience store Harold decides that he must deliver his message in person. And, that he must walk nearly six hundred miles in order to do so. Because, he believes as long as he keeps walking, Queenie Hennessy will keep on living. And so begins the Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry. Though he has forgotten to bring his mobile, is wearing yachting shoes (though he doesn't yacht) and has only a light sweater to keep him warm he embarks on a quest that will bring him to places he never imagined existed both physically and emotionally. With each step he travels closer to Queenie, and to discovering the man that is buried beneath years of monotony. Harold and Maureen seem to be an average, normal couple who have settled into life. But the truth is they have been together for so long that they have forgotten why they fell in love in the first place. And then there's their son David. He's something of an enigma but a source of friction non-the-less. As Harold walks he thinks. As Maureen waits she thinks. And there is so much for them to think about! Along the way Harold happens upon a cast of characters that are as diverse as your imagination allows and so rich with personality that their stories seamlessly become Harold's. Everyone has something to offer. Some times it's food or shelter and others it's a bit of advice. It is because of them that he is able to keep walking. But what's even more interesting is what Harold gives them in return, and how these brief chance meetings have such an impact on each of them. As I was reading and getting to know the characters I grew fond of them. With every encounter that unfolded on the road I found myself holding my breath as I waited to see what happens next. There are so many layers to this book. So many stories that the author has brilliantly blended together. I didn't know if Harold would make it or if Queenie would live. I wondered what Maureen was going to do when she realized that she really missed her husband. And what about David? How did he fit into the story? Page by page, step by step they all are finding their way, and what started out as unlikely makes perfect sense by the end of the story. Interesting, funny, charming, sad, curious, awkward, corny, scary, personal, heart warming, unexpected, delightful, offbeat, wonderful. These are just some of the words that I can use to describe this book. It's quite different from anything I've read lately. It's a human story that I was able to immerse myself in. I don't know if you'll enjoy it as much as I did, but there's a good chance you will. Check out a copy at your library and see for yourself. You might end up taking your own unexpected journey!
Well folks, that's about all for today! To wrap things up I'm linking in with with this lovely group of bloggers. It's my first time visiting Ginger (Wow Me Wednesday) and Kara (Look What I Made) - who both have super creative blogs (take a peak!). All these ladies have something special to offer and I'm so glad to be able to include my work. I love seeing what others are doing and I always find something that I have to 'Pin' to my ever growing collection of boards! Thank you so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me! I hope you enjoyed your visit and come back again soon!
Until next time friends, Be blessed and stitch & read with love! After the Square I've covered a lot of ground since I began learning about the world of granny squares. I started with the history of crochet and granny in Part I, then experimented with variations of the "classic" pattern in Part II. I played with color and learned some basic theory in Part III. Things really blossomed when I 'grew' a garden of flowers in Part IV. I tried my hand at designing squares by creating two patterns - The Pinwheel & Pop-Corn Flower and Clusters to Classic. The flowers and squares inspired me to go even further with a secret project that is nearly ready for it's big reveal. So what's next? That's easy. It's time to meet the Motifs! When I was making flowers for Part IV, I came to the realization that all granny squares are motifs, but not all motifs are granny squares. In my mind that makes them all part of the same family. I imagine that the square, circle, hexagon, triangle, heart, flower, leaf etc. are all cousins. They share the family characteristic of being a distinctive and recurring form, shape, figure, etc., in a design, as in a painting or on wallpaper (my dictionary definition of motif). In the crochet world motifs are worked individually. They can be used as embellishments or appliques to add flair to anything from lampshades to flip-flops. They can be connected to each other with the 'join-as-you-go' technique that's often used in scarves, blankets and afghans. Or a batch of motifs can be sewn together to form anything from sweaters and ponchos to wrist warmers, cowls, accessories for the home or even as part of a yarn bombing attack! With a bit of ingenuity anything can be fashioned from motifs. Exploring the Many Varieties of Motifs To guide me in my shapely quest I turned to an outstanding book called Beyond the Square - Crochet Motifs by Edie Eckman. In this inspiring publication there are 144 patterns in five categories - Circles, Hexagons, Triangles, Squares and Other Unexpected Shapes. This spiral bound book (yeah!) has excellent pictures, clearly written patterns and diagrams for each unique design. I decided to choose two from each category (except squares!). It was a tough decision because there are so many cool motifs. I looked for examples that showed open work and lots of close tight stitching in each shape. I changed my mind multiple times throughout the process and of course ended up making more than I set out too! There is so much variety here that I understand why so many people have challenged themselves to make all of them! The only thing that is missing from this book is how to connect the shapes. Initially I wasn't looking for that kind of information. But, as my pile of motifs grew I began to wonder what I was going to do with them. I must not be the only person to ask this question because while I was looking for another book to help me I found that Edie has a new book coming out called Connect the Shapes Crochet Motifs: Creative Techniques for Joining Motifs of All Shapes; Includes 101 New Motif Designs! It's set to be released on October 23rd and I know it's on my Christmas wish list!! Now here's a look at motifs I made. Circles My husband picked #10 because he thought it looked like a sea anemone! It was interesting to make. Not hard, just lots of chain stitches and working in back loops. I included the shot of the backside to show how much of the Carrot yarn I really used. It's a puffy motif rising about 3/4 of an inch into the air! We like it so much that it's hanging out on the coffee table! Motifs #8 and #4 are my open or lacy choices. Motif #8 looks more like a star than a circle to me. The stitches around the center that look like picots are really chain 3's worked over a skipped stitch. This was a very quick motif and I can imagine a group of them connected at the points to make a scarf or wrap. Motif #4 is a circle of cluster stitches. I'm not crazy about the colors (that's why I switched for the others!) but I do like it's overall look and I like making the clusters! Triangles Motif #60 was a blast to make! It's simple stitches (sc, dc and ch), but you make the corner chain loops as you go and on the final round you weave them together to get that great raised interlocking loop effect. Not hard, but a really interesting technique! Motif #62 was one of the trickier ones in the group. I think because you did something completely different in each round, and that means paying close attention to your work! Overall I find it pleasing to the eye. Hexagons The hexagons feel closest to the square to me. I think that might be because they seem easier to connect to make a large piece like an afghan. Both of these were simple to make and I understand why so many people are drawn to them. Looking at #37 I just noticed a daisy in the light blue! Unexpected Shapes - Hearts I enjoyed the challenge of making these unique shapes. Because they are not symmetrical in the way that I am used to it was fascinating to watch the shapes develop. Motif #143 at the top of the page was also fun and challenging. I can envision a scarf made from a row of interlocking rings in a rainbow mix of colors with the border done in either black or white! I have to say that I love making motifs. Much more so today than when I started this grand adventure! Making each of these individual works of art has increased my repertoire of stitches, strengthened my ability to decode and decipher patterns and improved my overall crochet technique. While weaving in ends is still not my favorite thing I no longer dread the task and actually have become quite deft at securing those little devils! Each round presents a new set of instructions and I am intrigued with the way stitches work together to create different effects. Ruffly, woven, traditional, open, lacy, bumpy, smooth anything is possible! I still have no idea what I am going to do with ever expanding collection of motifs. For the time being I am content to collect them in a basket in the living room where I can admire them anytime I want!!
Thanks so much for coming by and spending part of your day with me!
Until next time friends, Be blessed and stitch & read with love! ... is a bit like falling in love! This weekend I started a new project. The Marlo Coat (MC). And I realized it's a bit like falling in love - or at least like having a crush. Let me explain. It started when I got the the Sept/Oct issue of Crochet! Today magazine. Flipping through I spotted MC. I was drawn to the neckline and the simplicity of the pattern. But I was already committed to Juliana and Eleanor so I pushed it to the back of my mind. Every once in a while I'd pick up the magazine. I took my measurements to determine my size and figured out if I would have enough yarn (I did)! I imagined what I would look like wearing my new sweater this winter (wonderful of course!). Then I finished Juliana! I was free to start something new! Eleanor wouldn't mind. She's my traveling project and get's to go new places all the time. I was so excited. I rushed to my pattern and grabbed my stash of yarn. Introductions were made by way of swatching. I knew that I needed to find the right hook size and make sure I liked working the pattern before I made a real commitment. After an evening with 3 different hooks I finally found the perfect size. To my delight the pattern was easy to commit to memory and produced an fantastic looking fabric! I knew that it was meant to be and I set to work on the back panel that very evening. Now MC is all I can think about! I spend every free moment working those stitches and watching it grow! It's only been a few days, and just like the beginning of any new love I'm giddy and talk to everyone about MC. I plan for when I can get away and we can be together. I know that things are moving quickly, and I really should be careful - but I can't help myself! So for right now I'm just going to bask in the happy feelings and keep my fingers crossed that it's the real thing and MC doesn't let me down!! Things Left in Books Working at the library I meet a lot of different and interesting people. I have regulars who I see often and can easily recommend a book to, and occasional visitors whose interest are as varied as the choices of yarn available on line. The books that we choose to read are personal. And during the time that you posses a book from the library it becomes a part of you. For that reason, people have a tendency to use items that are closely related to whatever is going on in their life as bookmarks. Often, these items are forgotten and returned when the book is finished. That's why we have an special spot for "Things Left in Books" at our library! You would think that folks would be more careful, but they're not! Most of the things that we come across are fairly mundane - a receipt from the grocery store, an appointment or business card and of course regular old book marks. But there are lots of pictures too. And birthday and anniversary cards. We've found bills for auto insurance and copies of pay stubs. But the most interesting are the letters. People don't write letters often anymore, but over time we've seen some surprising stuff! Recently I came across a letter dated 1982 from friends who hadn't seen each other in some time. There was the usual reminiscing, but the line that caught me off guard was this one, "Have you told your fiance that you are a witch yet?" Wow! Anyone who deals with books, from librarians to used book sellers, is likely to come across some crazy things. That's what prompted Michael Popek to write Forgotten Bookmarks - A Bookseller's Collection of Odd Things Lost Between the Pages. In this charming little book, Popek shares his favorites from 30 years in the book business. There are heartwarming love poems, recipes and advertisements (to name a few). Some are modern, most are antique and they're all fun to look at! My favorite? A handmade invitation to a sorority Halloween dance from 1910 where they invitees are warned to "be prepared to meet your doom!" They're required to dress precisely according to 7 points including "have your hair curled in 12 curls" and "wear your 'jeweled' dog collar"!! Also they must be prepared to sing "Oh Where Oh Where has my Little Dog Gone?" A final warning of "woe betide you if even one point is neglected!" and the skull and cross bones atop the page promise an evening of blood curdling terror! Popek's book is a great peak inside the forgotten private lives of readers, and his blog offers a look at his latest discoveries. Perhaps because of my own experiences I find it more interesting than others might, but it's charming none the less. Click over for a look, and don't forget to check your books before you bring them back to the library! Today I'll be linking up with the wonderful blogs. There are always so many interesting things to learn about and be inspired by. I'm sure you'll find something you just have to try! Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing a bit of your day with me!
Until next time friends, Be blessed and stitch & read with love! A Trippy Towel Trial Run Welcome Friends! So glad you stopped by. Recently I realized that (once again) I am spending too much time on the computer. Which means I don't have enough time or energy left in the day to work on the projects that I want to write about! Since the goal is for this to be a craft and book blog it seems appropriate (and necessary!) that I spend more time crafting and reading, and less time flitting about on the internet!! I'm sure you know exactly what I mean! How many times have you sat down just to check your messages and ended up 20 sites away looking at Pinterest or reading about cute baby animals?? It happens to me all the time! So I'm trying to discipline myself and limit how long I'm in front of the monitor each day. Hopefully it will result in more progress and more compelling posts. Honestly how many times do you want to see the same unfinished wrap no matter how lovely the yarn is? Today I thought I'd share my idea for a Christmas present. Right now I'm in the planning/trial/practice phase. Here's what I'm thinking... I'll embellish a set of bath towels with granny squares or flowers, or maybe granny squares and flowers. I came across the idea in Granny Square Love by Sarah London. I think she did hand towels with a line of small squares across the bottom. They were so cute! It struck me as a great gift for the person who has everything and needs nothing! I picked up the yarn and a test towel yesterday. My choices were limited, which left me with "Psychedelic" (that's what it's called - from Peaches and Creme) and "Sunshine". I'm not feeling a groovy kind of love for the yarn yet, but maybe once I turn it into something it'll turn me on! I thought I'd try out a few different patterns and sizes to see what looks best. If it comes out anything like Sarah's I should end up with a pretty hip gift - can you dig it daddy-o?? Stay turned for a preview coming soon!! On the book front, I just started an interesting new novel called the Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce. A co-worker suggested it. She said it was really well done and even made her cry! I trust her judgement implicitly so I started straight away. I'm about 75 pages in and finding it quite enjoyable (no tears yet!). Harold is a simple English chap who finds himself having the most interesting adventure of his life as a result of the only impulsive decision he ever made! I can't wait to find out where he ends up next! and for my Ravenous Readers a Wicked Good Book Review Wicked Business by Janet Evanovich Bantam Publishing June 19, 2012, 320 Pages Wicked Business is book two in the new Lizzy & Diesel “Wicked” series from Janet Evanovich. Lizzy is a pastry chef. Actually, she makes cupcakes at Dazzles Bakery in Salem, MA. Finally she is putting her life in order. And with the exception of Diesel and his monkey Carl things couldn’t be better. Diesel is her on again/off again partner. He’s extremely good looking and smells like Christmas cookies. Their partnership is a bit of a mystery. Diesel is a bit of a mystery. He has special powers. He can find people and things and there isn’t a lock he can’t open. He’s also (almost) immortal. I think you can kill him, but it’s quite hard to do. Lizzy as it turns out has “abilities beyond the ordinary” too. Hers seem to be along the line of being able to tell if people or things are enchanted. That may not be the right word, it’s more like she can tell if they have special energy. Diesel works for an organization that has assigned him to find and protect the stones of SALIGIA. They are old and mystical and are thought to represent the seven deadly sins. If you combine them all together they will unleash mayhem – the equivalent of hell on earth. Diesels’ cousin Wulf (short for Gerwulf Grimore) and his medieval minion Hatchet are their main rivals. Rumor has it that the stones of SALIGIA have surfaced in Salem. In particular the Luxuria Stone which is said to be infused with the power of lust. The murder of Harvard professor Gilbert Reedy sends Lizzy and Diesel on a quest to find the stone. Hopefully before it falls into the hands of Wulf or the devotee of lawlessness and chaos know as Anarchy. Now that you have a little background on the series and this book, let me tell what I think. I have been a fan of Janet Evanovich and the Stephanie Plum books since that series started. Truthfully though, after 18 adventures I’ve grown tired of Stephanie. Lizzy reminds me of all the reasons that I became a fan of Janet’s so many years ago. I love this story line. A bit of magic and mystery, dark menacing villains and a riotous cast of characters create a diverse ensemble. Lizzy is a funny, quirky woman. She’s smart and sassy, but not cocky. She’s not exactly sure what’s happening around her, but she’s a trooper and she’s willing to do what she can to stop the total destruction of the planet. The book moves quickly right from the start and there’s lots of action to keep you interested. It had been a while since I read Wicked Appetite (book one) and I forgot how much I enjoyed it. Book two did not disappoint. There’s great chemistry between the characters, and while I feel an occasional shadow of Pluminess it’s not enough to turn me off. I also like that this series has a finite number (7). I’d hate to see a good thing go bad just because the formula works. Even too much of a good thing can be bad for you – like cup cakes… If you’re a fan of Janet’s then you’re probably already on the list for this one. If you’ve never read her and are looking for a quick, light entertaining read than by all means go for it. You could read this as a stand alone, but I suggest starting with number one. Chances are once you start, you’ll be hooked! On Wednesday I love linking up with my friends at these awesome blogs. I guarantee that you'll find something that catches your eye and inspires you! There are so many creative folks at there, and I'm thrilled to be part of the gang! I hope you'll click on a link and see where it takes you! That will do it for me this time. Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me.
Until next time friends, Be blessed and stitch & read with love! Greetings! I'm so glad you're here! The response to my granny square patterns has been awesome. I know that a few folks have given them a try (or will be) and I can't wait to see how they turn out. You know it's one thing to make the square but it's a whole different ball game when you try to turn what you did into a pattern for someone else to follow! It's hard work! And speaking of hard work as you can see I've been filling my days with pansies and classic squares. Well, the pansies are hiding! There's a little project coming together, but I'm not quite ready to tell/show you what it is! Soon enough it will make it's debut in the next installment of the GSP. The other night I did pick up Juliana (that's her in white). I didn't realize it, but I only have a row and a half of sc and then 2 rows of edging to finish her up! She really is lovely and will make quite a statement. I had planned on doing beads on the last row, but I think I'll just go ahead and put the tassels on that the pattern calls for and get to wearing her! Eleanor (in those great fall colors) has been my carry along project. The progress is slow and steady. I know that she will be smashing when she's finished and I imagine we'll have plenty of good times this winter! Just for kicks I thought I'd give you a glimpse into the space where my magic happens!! This crazy messy area is my workspace. It is directly in front of my big comfy chair. It looks a little out of hand, but there is something so satisfying about having all my stuff around me. I do my computer work at the dining room table (that's covered with books, and paper and colored pencils and camera equipment!), and I take pictures on our closed in porch (it's 2 walls of windows so the light is terrific!). John calls these three spaces my "stations". The truth is, I've pretty much taken over the house. And I have no intention of giving it back! Really, I'm super lucky to have a supportive husband who doesn't mind eating his dinner surrounded by my projects! But he draws the line at having his picture taken while he's doing it! A Magical Review for my Ravenous Readers Shadow of Night by Deborah Harkness All Souls Trilogy - Book 2 July 10, 2012 Viking Adult, 592 pages In A Discovery of Witches we are introduced to Diana, a reluctant (untrained) witch and Oxford scholar and Matthew a geneticist vampire. Together they are searching for a sacred manuscript called Ashmole 782 that is said to hold the secrets of the creation for all creatures - and just may be the only way to save them from extinction. In Shadow of Night they have traveled back in time to 1590 and Elizabethan England. Here they believe they can search for the manuscript in relative safety and find a teacher who can help Diana master her powers. These books are so different from what I normally read, but I am completely enchanted with them! A friend convinced me to read the first one and I was captivated. There is a blend of history and fact that makes the entire story seem plausible. I also really like Diana. She is a smart, strong woman who manages to face the unanswered questions surrounding her past with just the right blend of grace and trepidation. Matthew is complex and mysterious - as any vampire who has lived several hundred years would be, yet he manages to be compassionate and understanding especially where Diana is concerned. In this book the author has done a great job (again) of blending real characters (William Shakespeare and Walter Raleigh plus Queen Elizabeth!) into the every day lives of the couple. It was interesting, the way that life was depicted. And I enjoyed watch Diana grow into a confident witch and "modern" woman. The story and the search for Ashomle 782 did detour a bit, and occasionally I found myself wondering how a certain event fit into the big picture. Happily though in the final third of the book there's lots of action and I found most of my questions answered. Of course, not all of them - or there would be no need for book 3! It's funny, but the older that I get the more varied my tastes have become, and I'm quite pleased to have discovered this series! I don't think that I'll actively be seeking witches and vampires on a regular basis, but I certainly won't be so quick to dismiss them. So far this has proved to be an entertaining and engaging series. There's history and action, a love story, family secrets, time travel, mysterious powers and the quest to save the world. Really what else could you ask for?? After that serious dose of otherworldly goodness I started Janet Evanovich's Wicked Business. I had forgotten that this series has it's own take on special powers and magic. But they're hardly in the same category. Anyway, I'm already more than half way through which means its a quick read. I'll tell you more about it after I finish. In the meantime, I'll be linking up with these wonderful blogs. Each one offers something unique and I love exploring the sites and taking in the talent. Have a look, I'm sure you'll find something that tickles your fancy! Thanks so much for stopping in and spending a bit of your day with me.
It's been great having you here. Until next time friends, Be blessed and stitch & read with love! In Full Bloom... I am enamored with flowers. Pansies mainly. They have long been one of my favorite blossoms, and so I decided to see what kind of interpretation I could design. A natural pansy is a bit unbalanced with big and little petals. My plan is to incorporate them into squares, and since I'm still a novice it makes more sense to work with uniform sizes. I'm feeling pretty satisfied with where things are so far. The technique for moving from flower to square was a challenge for me. I want the background to resemble a classic granny, so I needed to add on chains in the right location and configuration that I can work off of to make the square. With a few more adjustments I should have my "Classic Granny Pansy" ready for it's unveiling. Along with the pansy, I'm working on a pop-corn-picot flower. Again I plan to use the classic granny as the background. I'm sure I can find a pattern for these, but I'm trying to build my design skills. That means I'm stitching and ripping and stitching some more until I'm happy with the result! I have one finished that gets the big thumbs up, and another that is nearly there! Look for the big reveal on Friday. I still have other projects on the hooks. Eleanor and Juliana are patiently waiting for my flower fetish to wilt. But for right now, I'm really enjoying all the new things that I'm learning and being able to share my experiences with you. I had no idea when I started the Granny Square Project that it was going to grow into something so wonderful. I figured I'd make a few squares and be done. I guess not. Now I understand why people are so devoted to this technique or method of crochet. It's fun, satisfying and only limited by your imagination. Since it's Wednesday I bet you're surprised that I didn't included a book picture! Actually, I'm just about finished with Shadow of Night by Deborah Harkness. There has been much anticipation for this book as her debut last year with A Discovery of Witches was enormously successful. Was it worth the wait? I'll let you know what I think when I'm finished!! Well friends, that does it for me today. I'll be linking up with these terrific blogs, and spending some time visiting and seeing what amazing things are going on. I hope you'll join me. Thanks so much for stopping by and spending a bit of your day with me!
Until next time, Be blessed and stitch & read with love! |
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My name is Robin. I am a wife, mother and strong believer in the power of faith. I'm a maker, a crafter and an artist. I love exploring new mediums and sharing my adventures with you. Did you enjoy your visit? Let me know by leaving a comment. I love knowing you dropped by, and hope to see you again soon! Be Blessed and Stitch & Read with Love! |