tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57618235739292679652024-03-05T04:00:33.953-08:00Adventures in yarn, food and gardening, and all things good.Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.comBlogger41125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-21012938309532313392013-07-09T09:40:00.000-07:002013-07-09T09:40:02.732-07:00Tah Dah! Revealing the starburst throw blanketGood morning to you all! I hope everyone is enjoying a lovely July thus far. I have been really horrible about updating this blog for a while. Part of it is due to the warmer weather where I am outside and enjoying the time outdoors. Part of it is due to being lazy. Part of it is because recently, I got busy again with my crochet hook and got lost in it all with all my time being spent on that, instead of here. Now I get to play catch up. I have several things that I recently completed, and I need to make a separate post for each one. So, now I have some blogging material to blog about, right? <br />
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Let me get started with this one shall we? <br />
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Here is my finished starburst throw, Tah Dah. I bet by now everyone must for sure think this is just about the only thing I know how to make, lol. But, do not fear, it is only because I started a project several months back and have been using them to complete a bedroom set. These had been sitting here for a while in my closet and I finally pulled them out to complete the set. If you<a href="http://charitycrochets.blogspot.com/search/label/Circle" target="_blank"> look here</a>, you can see where I was using them earlier. The circle (starburst) is used as a base for many things. If you google "Flowers in the snow" blanket, you will see the crochet as you go design using them. I made the blanket currently on my bed from that and used the same centers to make the above blanket, but the granny square outside is different. If you google "Attic 24 hexagon" you will see the same center as well. In this one this is what I did. It is the same as the 2 bed pillows that I made with the starburst pattern as well.</div>
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Chain 4 and join with a slip stitch to form a ring. Then you make 12 double crochets into the ring with a chain 2 counting as your first double crochet. Then in every space around you crochet a chain 2 for the firt stitch, and a double crochet in that same space, which counts as a 2 double crochet cluster and chain 1. Then make a double crochet, 2 cluster all the way around with a chain space in between them and join with a slip stitch at the top of the first cluster to form a round. Then on the 3 round, you do the same except you make a 3 double crochet cluster and a chain between each space. Now you have a starburst round. How I made these into squares, was by making a 3 cluster of double crochets in the corner, and a 2 chain space between them, and on the sides a half double crochet 3 cluster with a single chain space between them all. This made it into a nice square. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM5nhs7G5hTjKJQm5amguO2f4PZGUbn_qRmg-I4joPbfC2cS7ls2C_YjhLwEpcm6QPy7uvlapa-uRm5WQH9_TLaEgTXo5-jrNXiA3Nc03NCAE6WhBT-lPpzgxcSrwvg6xjW8Q8bHA5ddX_/s1600/new-project.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM5nhs7G5hTjKJQm5amguO2f4PZGUbn_qRmg-I4joPbfC2cS7ls2C_YjhLwEpcm6QPy7uvlapa-uRm5WQH9_TLaEgTXo5-jrNXiA3Nc03NCAE6WhBT-lPpzgxcSrwvg6xjW8Q8bHA5ddX_/s1600/new-project.jpg" /></a></div>
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If you look closely you will be able to see what I mean. Do not be distracted by my lovely assistant :) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2F65aQ_gdqvWTgu3GPWUXz7z8RZX-EIAsTwsAD-4FmW50ugsdrNesKHxS-uiiqglvxFEq6kJizmmon3eyk1PFBNRufUHjh0W7x57gb1wW0Fidh8HoO8mSsWFqcxCuQ2711qp45wjDz_Ti/s1600/rows-for-blanket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2F65aQ_gdqvWTgu3GPWUXz7z8RZX-EIAsTwsAD-4FmW50ugsdrNesKHxS-uiiqglvxFEq6kJizmmon3eyk1PFBNRufUHjh0W7x57gb1wW0Fidh8HoO8mSsWFqcxCuQ2711qp45wjDz_Ti/s1600/rows-for-blanket.jpg" /></a></div>
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After I got them all done I arranged them by outside color and distributed by rows and laying them out. Here you can see where I have whip stitched rows together.</div>
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I use a smaller hook to pull the yarn through instead of darning needle. I find it goes faster. I assembled them by sewing them by back loop only.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkHGVwhqGMsrjdorz6KEEI62anEe_nZCwnhiGdJyEjEez__t4_aJ0g8vX-Vn-EPOIkFGowJMGnwvtxVEfVBGgJOikTOSCSanhSB55FQUI2D34Vu0Y3654A8ah5WXas9qFWkbEF9dpnCtte/s1600/starburst-blocks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkHGVwhqGMsrjdorz6KEEI62anEe_nZCwnhiGdJyEjEez__t4_aJ0g8vX-Vn-EPOIkFGowJMGnwvtxVEfVBGgJOikTOSCSanhSB55FQUI2D34Vu0Y3654A8ah5WXas9qFWkbEF9dpnCtte/s1600/starburst-blocks.jpg" /></a></div>
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But, before you get that far, just make sure to take your time sorting the colors so no two of the same exact outside color touches if possible. I sat out in my back yard on a lovely sunny day and did this, and kept moving them around until color distribution was pretty even. In this photo some of the colors might look like they are touching but they are different colors, just close to the same. I have absolutely no idea how many colors of yarn is in this. All I know is that it is colorful and cheerful and it used a lot of scraps up.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisjvUR7VfeSqETk5UhJ0Pv5_XzsIy5Yrl526HI_IuL8Jqnfv46zJUWq1zTRvTShDolcgq984okPWJs8MtfZomeiL5ATYQSQYxmHHZ_KW6xRTAL_jddRXWh0PRxQfcRaSAkF7MqfVNCbXAP/s1600/starburst-throw-blanket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisjvUR7VfeSqETk5UhJ0Pv5_XzsIy5Yrl526HI_IuL8Jqnfv46zJUWq1zTRvTShDolcgq984okPWJs8MtfZomeiL5ATYQSQYxmHHZ_KW6xRTAL_jddRXWh0PRxQfcRaSAkF7MqfVNCbXAP/s1600/starburst-throw-blanket.jpg" /></a></div>
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Finally, here is the blanket all spread out and assembled with a border. It measures approx 64 x 56 inches. It has 195 starburst granny squares. With the white border (the complete square) they measure just slightly over 4 inches each. I have them arranged by 13x15 rows. Just the perfect snuggle up size for watching a movie or reading a book. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSrZ27IFyytfSDwHGK4uLSynVFZqk9RnMnkWSIuDdfL9thBwYZR3Oaq9UxQYqDbIvr2RPhPuflqwJVsq67w0zMmn7oI2I2VKz10Kv9WXUGRJi0pkCwM08itTmd48c6oyGaCaq2NiYEtMsE/s1600/border.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSrZ27IFyytfSDwHGK4uLSynVFZqk9RnMnkWSIuDdfL9thBwYZR3Oaq9UxQYqDbIvr2RPhPuflqwJVsq67w0zMmn7oI2I2VKz10Kv9WXUGRJi0pkCwM08itTmd48c6oyGaCaq2NiYEtMsE/s1600/border.jpg" /></a></div>
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I used the Around the border crochet book by Edie Eckman. This is border #129. I did go around the blanket with a double crochet first, of the white, then a row of single crochet of the red, then I proceeded with her pattern. The color combo was simply just based on what scraps of yarn had the biggest balls in order to go all the way around the blanket. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3EL6lTnbC-3GwKND3TIuzQVywAdmMYpDRyul2dEOpaug2jFroT0kJ6lwRfoxITMcFCd1px6_N-Uv39IAqF_FOXSjSSYYN6zJ1XaB7gSQMAHkeiqIjqCqqaLWshAa_sgFZNDNgDdPZmeHN/s1600/border-corner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3EL6lTnbC-3GwKND3TIuzQVywAdmMYpDRyul2dEOpaug2jFroT0kJ6lwRfoxITMcFCd1px6_N-Uv39IAqF_FOXSjSSYYN6zJ1XaB7gSQMAHkeiqIjqCqqaLWshAa_sgFZNDNgDdPZmeHN/s1600/border-corner.jpg" /></a></div>
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I altered the corner slightly from how it is in the book. That was operator error that I did not want to rip out. I was sitting up comforting my cats on the 4th of July with the loud fireworks and was trying to crochet, and I did not reference how she went around the corner. It still looks good though, it is just not as sharp of a corner. The border is slightly ruffled and softens the blanket up nicely. </div>
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And now to present to you, the place where I sleep. Not all the pillows that I made can be seen from this angle but most of them you can. I now have the throw folded at the foot of my bed along with the flowers in the snow blanket used as a bed spread, the 2 big bed pillows I covered and then the two recent throw pillows that I made and then the full size bed pillow with the flowers on it. I used up a ton of scraps and it is all based on an off white color. First I was using my scraps, then I inherited a bunch more from a neighbor that moved away, and I STILL have not touched any of the yarn I purchased recently. The scrap basket is till pretty full of yarn. But do not fear... I am still using those scraps up. That is another post, another day... </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1xMWQQ3UZqATLUa-ksZRz-equf530WPT6LmcTEh6B4eZuhxBqE5MkKRRq05ZWanO_edNR2F6FC-TIf__hsZR5_tmyIxFeUNFIDF7OSaEF45JI2IOpPWJcYfZF_9bW3YWkyIZ7d9N6C6RA/s1600/my-bed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1xMWQQ3UZqATLUa-ksZRz-equf530WPT6LmcTEh6B4eZuhxBqE5MkKRRq05ZWanO_edNR2F6FC-TIf__hsZR5_tmyIxFeUNFIDF7OSaEF45JI2IOpPWJcYfZF_9bW3YWkyIZ7d9N6C6RA/s1600/my-bed.jpg" /></a></div>
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Here you go! Isn't that fun and girlie? That was a lot of stitching to make a completed bedroom set. But, in the end, I have something fun and functional. I used up a lot of scraps and the only yarn I purchased was the background color. It ended up being very inexpensive to make and I am sure it will bring me lots of comfort over the years with keeping me warm and happy and snuggly. Thank you so much for visiting and reading up on what I just completed. I have more updates to make soon as I have been busy and sneaky with making all sorts of things. So I will bid you all farewell for today.</div>
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Until then... xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx</div>
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<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-21510088371069709132013-06-27T16:42:00.000-07:002013-06-27T17:44:31.330-07:00Granny Flower Square Tutorial<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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Hi everyone! I am here to show you how I made these flower granny squares that I used while making the pillow above. Please note that I am using one color of yarn in this tutorial, so I could keep going while taking photos but for more interest, have fun experimenting with various color combinations. </div>
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Let me start off by explaining, that you can turn any flower into a granny square. This is a 6 petal flower with double layers. You can do this with just about any flower as long as you build a chain in the back side and attach on all 4 sides equally spaced. I have several blankets that my grandmother made way back when turning simple flowers like this into squares. She did it out of simple flowers like these easy 6 petal flowers and some more complicated flowers many many years ago. I need to pull them out of storage some day and show them off, but that is another day. You can do it with 5 petal flowers, 12 petal flowers, etc. All you need to do is count the number of stitches around, and divide by 4. That will be where you place the slip stitch with the chain you make to attach on the back side, and start a granny square off that foundation you built. It is not so difficult to do, but I am getting ahead of myself here. I hope that everyone finds this tutorial easy to follow. Let's get started shall we? </div>
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First we will be making the flower. All terms mentioned here are in American crochet terms. If you are from the UK or anywhere else, you will need to convert to the crochet terms in your land :) </div>
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Chain 4 and then slip stitch into the first chain to form a ring. </div>
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In the center of the ring, chain one stitch, this will count as your first stitch and go around until you have 12 stitches total. Slip stitch into the first stitch to finish this round off. </div>
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Chain 1 and then in the next stitch make 3 double crochet stitches and then in the next one slip stitch, alternating all the way around, through both the front and back loop of the single crochet stitches.</div>
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You should do this until you have a total of 6 flower petals. Slip stitch into the first single crochet stitch when you started the round to finish off this round. </div>
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Chain 3 stitches.</div>
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Turn the project around so the back side is facing you. Make a slip stitch in every slip stitch space between the petals when you finish off the chain. Do this 6 times with a chain 3, behind each and every petal. </div>
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When you are done it should look like this from the back. Finish off that round with a slip stitch where you started the first chain of 3. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdZShuk4ORKfKvTx-TiEYWPoJUe7aWFvng5dU79_Jk5JgyGSKFrcCI5A2oJrNCWAdy1z1z7FpxU3VL3MIQ_q5lRVScKKxYd8AE2tZfWX4ea4ouBugTYOoGtjMKiikjzqLgQaqq3MR0Cdn6/s600/8-back-petals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdZShuk4ORKfKvTx-TiEYWPoJUe7aWFvng5dU79_Jk5JgyGSKFrcCI5A2oJrNCWAdy1z1z7FpxU3VL3MIQ_q5lRVScKKxYd8AE2tZfWX4ea4ouBugTYOoGtjMKiikjzqLgQaqq3MR0Cdn6/s1600/8-back-petals.jpg" /></a></div>
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Flip the flower around so it is facing the right way again, as you will be working from the front again. Make a single crochet over the first chain 3 space and then 5 double crochet stitches. Do this for each 3 chain space (1 sc and 5 dc). You should have 6 flower petals now.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl2BF_hqJlqrhvXL1wg0n0vGwTkpABQCeg0T_Uvcm4BRVqTQcaQuxQZlN9ZgjkwGaszXFM61fA2R98yhMgRB4xIzT7M5GunNhSMf8XkmLYzYR-oTKXb3zswxlA9-Q_KX18wka14XV6qCeb/s600/9-chain-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl2BF_hqJlqrhvXL1wg0n0vGwTkpABQCeg0T_Uvcm4BRVqTQcaQuxQZlN9ZgjkwGaszXFM61fA2R98yhMgRB4xIzT7M5GunNhSMf8XkmLYzYR-oTKXb3zswxlA9-Q_KX18wka14XV6qCeb/s1600/9-chain-5.jpg" /></a></div>
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Make a slip stitch in the first single crochet stitch that you started the round with, and then chain 5 stitches. </div>
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Turn the flower around so the back is facing you again. You can see in the diagram above where to make a slip stitch, and that is at the base of the next flower petal over, between the 2nd and 3rd double crochet stitches. Then chain 5 more stitches and make a slip stitch between the petals. Do this again until you have a total of 4 chain stitches secured to the back of the flower. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihSBfJg2m1g2XyL4PNT_LW0RZU3iZBnWSOBtzGvVaWYv_VC9B3ZTLeh3rTkzmcEqj-yGL73U2kNh64aqRzurrQK_yScBPZlJixYeZI7aVO8ceAiEJ602CxipsA7hu5-8G44_d1x-LwqZd8/s600/11-granny-stitch-and-2-chai.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihSBfJg2m1g2XyL4PNT_LW0RZU3iZBnWSOBtzGvVaWYv_VC9B3ZTLeh3rTkzmcEqj-yGL73U2kNh64aqRzurrQK_yScBPZlJixYeZI7aVO8ceAiEJ602CxipsA7hu5-8G44_d1x-LwqZd8/s1600/11-granny-stitch-and-2-chai.jpg" /></a></div>
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Still working from the back side, now you will be making stitches like a granny square. Chain 2 (this counts as your first stitch) and then 2 double crochets after that to form a granny square cluster on to the chain, of 3 double crochet stitches together. Then, chain 2 and make 3 more double crochet stitches to form another cluster. This is side one completed. Do this on all 4 of the 5 chain spaces on the back of the flower. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMPIvZheknOY99M69vxpyW6PKoCNPE9mz-v3D2nEN1XAeaxbI8jAPZtZZOBEqXz9MBtmUO6zoXfPmbZjoDQuHbAR5Faryr9DqUOAYVW57Ka6wf9G7Vg0CsijgBi6WkdCsGLm3RHgRRsu7n/s600/12-all-around-join-slip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMPIvZheknOY99M69vxpyW6PKoCNPE9mz-v3D2nEN1XAeaxbI8jAPZtZZOBEqXz9MBtmUO6zoXfPmbZjoDQuHbAR5Faryr9DqUOAYVW57Ka6wf9G7Vg0CsijgBi6WkdCsGLm3RHgRRsu7n/s1600/12-all-around-join-slip.jpg" /></a></div>
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Finish this round off by making a slip stitch into the first chain 2 when you started the round. Flip the project around and chain 2. You will be working from the front again. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Go4yFHOIM7UmzY_fPBJ6uL3sIr__KqKLKjoT3hpduuVu5J7tkiExc3ipjlfiezLm5JujxiwjWRI67MyFGGoGSdY4EWSrbIeeqCiFwFeXBQs2y5-qthfikEX2tE7L8lirJ5jYpPxGFcup/s600/13-chain-2-then-dc-around.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Go4yFHOIM7UmzY_fPBJ6uL3sIr__KqKLKjoT3hpduuVu5J7tkiExc3ipjlfiezLm5JujxiwjWRI67MyFGGoGSdY4EWSrbIeeqCiFwFeXBQs2y5-qthfikEX2tE7L8lirJ5jYpPxGFcup/s1600/13-chain-2-then-dc-around.jpg" /></a></div>
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Make a double crochet stitch in each space around, and then 2 at the end, and then 2 chain stitches to go around the corner and then 2 double crochet stitches, and continue around in each space, for a total of 12 stitches on each side (not counting the chain stitches around the corner). </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ_nogRpAb5BLCEz7nim_CFdEocXU2qM2scFEPGMyZLxLXhG85GeM0lvw-Qg2gzvwbWh0q94cWh-HCoSlBR3Q7kq-1A7gYBO4benztZVBomv-4losKAHn669D80PrLaL0g9pYLAL3qYVCh/s600/14-twelve-around.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ_nogRpAb5BLCEz7nim_CFdEocXU2qM2scFEPGMyZLxLXhG85GeM0lvw-Qg2gzvwbWh0q94cWh-HCoSlBR3Q7kq-1A7gYBO4benztZVBomv-4losKAHn669D80PrLaL0g9pYLAL3qYVCh/s1600/14-twelve-around.jpg" /></a></div>
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It should look like this photo above at this point. </div>
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Chain 1 stitch and then single crochet all the way around, with 2 single crochet stitches at the end, and then 2 chain stitches to go around the corner, and 2 single crochet stitches again, and a single crochet in each space after that around. You should have 14 single crochet stitches on each side not counting the 2 chain crochet stitches to go around the corner. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidoO-xa1HRrUShblTnyKNFA4A6lJPUaWubHENl3_Y-A5S9t4-CPT2JV__QICsmwCCShuk09gj0JVIBH_bS8FQtF3JJ7viuolTzS7fGRHQtupiDKzZ83wuTlH4dRJqlZN5QnNAg3OMTLcWC/s600/16-button-center.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidoO-xa1HRrUShblTnyKNFA4A6lJPUaWubHENl3_Y-A5S9t4-CPT2JV__QICsmwCCShuk09gj0JVIBH_bS8FQtF3JJ7viuolTzS7fGRHQtupiDKzZ83wuTlH4dRJqlZN5QnNAg3OMTLcWC/s1600/16-button-center.jpg" /></a></div>
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Finish off and then to add some bling, you can sew a button in the center.</div>
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That's it! Now you have made a flower and converted a flower into a granny square. You can make a blanket, a pillow or many other things with these flower granny squares. If you want to use another flower, just have fun experimenting. You have learned the basic technique and with simple math you can do this. To figure out how long the chain should be, depends on how wide your flower is. Just make a chain that reaches across tightly (but not too tight) and if it lays flat, do that all the way around. It really is that simple and no big mystery here. Don't be intimidated, just have fun... I know you can do it! I have confidence in you dear reader. </div>
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When I made the pillow above, I changed colors with the petal rounds and the final outer round of single crochet was made with the white, and they were whip stitched together from the back loop only to make a flat seam. </div>
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I hope you can understand my instructions as I am not well practiced at writing patterns. If you have any questions please feel free to leave a comment and I will update this post or answer you in the comments section depending on the question. </div>
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Now go forth and create! Until next time... xxxxxxxx</div>
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<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-62229803940251350772013-06-26T19:28:00.000-07:002013-06-27T16:45:01.652-07:00Granny Flower Pillow, The Big Reveal, Tah Dah! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLGTyYEDDgF_I1gk-KuQ3aOtmbYHuH4C3kAQ1mptY0bgeUx_ARreEYyH0dF-9SyMK7g8ufJ_7eeVVQkiq2PGIw9K2ttdq4vPvh4JbH9hxGvWz0fVUl8-O_mYHHgB4NEoScvCjn-eNAQCYD/s1600/garden-pillow-tah-dah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLGTyYEDDgF_I1gk-KuQ3aOtmbYHuH4C3kAQ1mptY0bgeUx_ARreEYyH0dF-9SyMK7g8ufJ_7eeVVQkiq2PGIw9K2ttdq4vPvh4JbH9hxGvWz0fVUl8-O_mYHHgB4NEoScvCjn-eNAQCYD/s1600/garden-pillow-tah-dah.jpg" /></a></div>
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Hi dear internets!!! Here is my latest project. It only took about 4 or 5 days to make, and that is with a bit of down time. The squares went really fast. I had a bunch of yarn scraps that I needed to use up. When my neighbor had her garage sale a few months back, I ended up purchasing a lot of yarn from her. But, when the garage sale was over there was a big box of half skeins of yarn that had been rifled through and were one giant tangled mess. She gave me the box for free, and I went to town untangling all of it and rolling them all into balls. I didn't know what to make from these but there were so many colors, I hated to see them go to waste. I wanted to make some pillows to cover the two pillow blanks I had on hand. I felt so giddy and sneaky because nobody knew I was making all these and suddenly in no time at all, I have two projects up on the web this week. </div>
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The above photo is the front of the pillow. It is a very happy pillow don't you think? It fits over a 16 x 16 inch pillow form. I added some bling bling to the centers with the rhinestone buttons that I purchased recently to make my previous pillow. It just needed that extra touch. I guess I am in a blingy mood these days. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ALctZsj_vHYF0Lu9QP7xzUJou8DuevOGHgm-ANgI73v_KyJxIacvWlfl8rXesjvxVFzbilUI4x14GmGV5am3v9D3Mvxxl7rihbUvTTMfnjSs0kPwX_Cn-IRFjyrh11UFJnLDtsqpZv9e/s1600/back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ALctZsj_vHYF0Lu9QP7xzUJou8DuevOGHgm-ANgI73v_KyJxIacvWlfl8rXesjvxVFzbilUI4x14GmGV5am3v9D3Mvxxl7rihbUvTTMfnjSs0kPwX_Cn-IRFjyrh11UFJnLDtsqpZv9e/s1600/back.jpg" /></a></div>
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The back side of the pillow is just double crochet with 6 rows of single crochet and then a scallop stitch to give it some interest. As you can see by now if you have been reading my blog, I like to make all my pillows with a button up back side. This helps me to remove the cover and wash it whenever I want with ease. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDQgfQ1gL2owDiTI5DhFedEwx-SUV_SIlNQYsjMo7QAjbH6t5Oil6AA7GZwAkHXT06p9nvWnBlzBoAC4TNArKZekAZAx9FT9aTGNp-vmdp6N0EuGCkPLjW_6nyko-6sIs-i7E1lSxCL0GA/s1600/sneak-flower-granny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDQgfQ1gL2owDiTI5DhFedEwx-SUV_SIlNQYsjMo7QAjbH6t5Oil6AA7GZwAkHXT06p9nvWnBlzBoAC4TNArKZekAZAx9FT9aTGNp-vmdp6N0EuGCkPLjW_6nyko-6sIs-i7E1lSxCL0GA/s1600/sneak-flower-granny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDQgfQ1gL2owDiTI5DhFedEwx-SUV_SIlNQYsjMo7QAjbH6t5Oil6AA7GZwAkHXT06p9nvWnBlzBoAC4TNArKZekAZAx9FT9aTGNp-vmdp6N0EuGCkPLjW_6nyko-6sIs-i7E1lSxCL0GA/s1600/sneak-flower-granny.jpg" /></a></div>
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When I stitched the pillow together with the front and the back, I did one row on the outside of single crochet and then I did these scallops that are seven double crochet stitches in one single crochet space, skip two spaces, slip stitch, skip two single crochet spaces and then do seven more double crochets and repeat all the way around the pillow. With this pillow being so "girlie" I just had to add a scalloped edge to it. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEoomHmcvYHxn2IB5ZOIzTBHPYxE5-Sy4r5uxeXya-4lhMTiPnyfS1HfwbFh4by8aLFVKk7vC6RIpsmIO8DCPh1aOSr32FlV1xLRSSWO9LxyNXZnmmRXDVZMVKc5xsmyDexsE3y6QvRz8s/s1600/flower-granny-sample.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEoomHmcvYHxn2IB5ZOIzTBHPYxE5-Sy4r5uxeXya-4lhMTiPnyfS1HfwbFh4by8aLFVKk7vC6RIpsmIO8DCPh1aOSr32FlV1xLRSSWO9LxyNXZnmmRXDVZMVKc5xsmyDexsE3y6QvRz8s/s1600/flower-granny-sample.jpg" /></a></div>
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The whole idea started from this one little sample square I made and that is when it sparked the idea to make a pillow. I have a theme going on in my bedroom where all the blankets and pillows have the same off white, with lots of splashes of color. I decided that if I made the outer petals out of the same white, I could mix it up some. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzCCZbtpO9moth8MrFj0VhUBKAbsU8kSijhAc_YZowOMoX5nyax4HvvSR83AbtoG5RG6DhAIlW7a7l4iKyGYETVRMOFVsTyzHUEYng2gWRXoT7Q8vDUKRSybjOP3Uh4I1rYZJ0K1MMeO9o/s1600/flower-granny-progress-day-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzCCZbtpO9moth8MrFj0VhUBKAbsU8kSijhAc_YZowOMoX5nyax4HvvSR83AbtoG5RG6DhAIlW7a7l4iKyGYETVRMOFVsTyzHUEYng2gWRXoT7Q8vDUKRSybjOP3Uh4I1rYZJ0K1MMeO9o/s1600/flower-granny-progress-day-.jpg" /></a></div>
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So I got busy and did just that. Here they are on my bed while I continue to make squares out of various colors to mix and match. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTvxfx9fl2esmT0ZUUWuUqPXfJmaWE_7kdsQD7cLbPcnZ2IX4xbuPe8h-LmOCch_KY2vLnAmMHdpUjf-d9Xe3sGIjPKvsaVjc6BLsUV6agR9PDplGYLYC8K4riu-Ko2pTKPWJpKkqnyOgW/s1600/flower-granny-downtime.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTvxfx9fl2esmT0ZUUWuUqPXfJmaWE_7kdsQD7cLbPcnZ2IX4xbuPe8h-LmOCch_KY2vLnAmMHdpUjf-d9Xe3sGIjPKvsaVjc6BLsUV6agR9PDplGYLYC8K4riu-Ko2pTKPWJpKkqnyOgW/s1600/flower-granny-downtime.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTvxfx9fl2esmT0ZUUWuUqPXfJmaWE_7kdsQD7cLbPcnZ2IX4xbuPe8h-LmOCch_KY2vLnAmMHdpUjf-d9Xe3sGIjPKvsaVjc6BLsUV6agR9PDplGYLYC8K4riu-Ko2pTKPWJpKkqnyOgW/s1600/flower-granny-downtime.jpg" /></a></div>
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The weather has been hit and miss so I did not feel guilty for one second sitting with my feet up making this pillow. It was a perfect excuse to hang out with the cat, drink tea and crochet to my hearts desire. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA7WOmvyjNcglN3Qeou9FNunUgff4G_C7qIlEYHI5tdK5ikgsKwq0wbvHrJ5XZHJfscQ3EwwqWYJNAVznqL_rvnjEvI0o5rO3xo3gVVVkXyp7Lfdy1liBuHDqI7dWsFvcVDnnX4bftY65c/s1600/flower-progress-day-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA7WOmvyjNcglN3Qeou9FNunUgff4G_C7qIlEYHI5tdK5ikgsKwq0wbvHrJ5XZHJfscQ3EwwqWYJNAVznqL_rvnjEvI0o5rO3xo3gVVVkXyp7Lfdy1liBuHDqI7dWsFvcVDnnX4bftY65c/s1600/flower-progress-day-2.jpg" /></a></div>
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In order to pull the them together I made a single row of single crochet around each granny square, and then I sewed them together with the back loop only to form an invisible seam. Then I crocheted the back on to each end, and sewed it up, and put the ruffle around it. This is the pillow before the back went on or anything. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIJPRWN8Fyer_y4UMu8YdneSYIAL4JaD-EPkIGqTtuRY6ubQUDhBs7C1XiEnHFjhdnUN7Nf3ShbpWFGzYvWQR6LvT4EGY3n-xxvoS8rn9EWikPL_grhc4ubjIv7daipMjWyWrgWOw0bXJu/s1600/garden-pillow-tah-dah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIJPRWN8Fyer_y4UMu8YdneSYIAL4JaD-EPkIGqTtuRY6ubQUDhBs7C1XiEnHFjhdnUN7Nf3ShbpWFGzYvWQR6LvT4EGY3n-xxvoS8rn9EWikPL_grhc4ubjIv7daipMjWyWrgWOw0bXJu/s1600/garden-pillow-tah-dah.jpg" /></a></div>
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Let's take one last look again shall we? I think it turned out adorable if I do say so myself. </div>
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<a href="http://charitycrochets.blogspot.com/2013/06/granny-flower-square-tutorial.html" target="_blank">If you would like to know how to make these flower granny squares, I have put the tutorial up here. </a> </div>
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Until next time... Happy Crocheting and Crafting... xxxxxxxxxx </div>
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<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-31372463727415175692013-06-25T17:26:00.001-07:002013-06-25T17:28:38.424-07:00Chain Flower Pillow Tah Dah! and Flower Tutorial and Leaf Tutorial<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUfwdQvvmGM7jRZtEFq6y4mIb3-Lxhn-X5wUIgrnsT5f3gqZZBtvtbhSRHUSky05Nx0gu5KUpxmsaG4fCadXpLcbww70T72j5NaxWp0F5vOOgPH9P1PPyjo8F7JMSK6sdwclKwiRbHKhyphenhyphen1/s1600/chain-pillow-front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUfwdQvvmGM7jRZtEFq6y4mIb3-Lxhn-X5wUIgrnsT5f3gqZZBtvtbhSRHUSky05Nx0gu5KUpxmsaG4fCadXpLcbww70T72j5NaxWp0F5vOOgPH9P1PPyjo8F7JMSK6sdwclKwiRbHKhyphenhyphen1/s1600/chain-pillow-front.jpg" /></a></div>
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Hi everyone! I hope this post finds you all well and in good health and spirits. I finished a little project the other day. I am here to do a big reveal after putting my hooks down for several months. I picked them back up about a week ago to finish this pillow that I actually started months ago. Here it is, Tah Dah! I hope you like it. I like the splash of color that this adds to my world. The background I started a few months back and just measured it (The pillow is 16 x 16 inches). and <a href="http://charitycrochets.blogspot.com/2013/04/ta-dah-big-reveal-happy-summertime.html" target="_blank">did a stitch that I made on my last big pillow</a> which was just a double and a single crochet alternating them. Then on the next row where there was a double crochet I made a single crochet, and where there was a single crochet, going back and forth to give it texture. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKoehRMVspBiaWEAYwzNVUiTgjb_dQGwH8MeBNz5t4mOySHv9tHXwVPzNweTMxinnwA5kX2iy5jO8yOwbxpcLHeM9z-8quVtRhB_J54z5SH9o6SvmRZTStJDWnGGQU1JoyUVZ0K-zABi-Q/s1600/texture.jpg" target="_blank">You can see the details of the stitch here</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJzQDWKncgTd-FmtxLyblK-0kIE85QdPmdPr2KvVIUWUpV1YKPwKXVSk0OahVew4-HVfzMeIF0SWd1vnanVMH39X7jk3MLdDCIPxoSAeMpNTMdaqcf8rfW6aQmbDJzOFeSoDcKvyMY2QpD/s1600/back-chain-pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJzQDWKncgTd-FmtxLyblK-0kIE85QdPmdPr2KvVIUWUpV1YKPwKXVSk0OahVew4-HVfzMeIF0SWd1vnanVMH39X7jk3MLdDCIPxoSAeMpNTMdaqcf8rfW6aQmbDJzOFeSoDcKvyMY2QpD/s1600/back-chain-pillow.jpg" /></a></div>
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Here is the back side of the pillow. I just made a simple scallop and it buttons in the back for easy removal of the cover so it can be washed. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxD2ftWkVkTwP30XrGckqaXE9e59uPQ-lHbMObbvfQ4DrImtN3NT8TbK4VkdI5rSfUXSGv0r-WNET5kXPqsXyHvrGBeS8nMCMTVN1L_bDGOdt5-ITvYUE269xNth6JW45QSmGDu9qS2NVV/s1600/close-up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxD2ftWkVkTwP30XrGckqaXE9e59uPQ-lHbMObbvfQ4DrImtN3NT8TbK4VkdI5rSfUXSGv0r-WNET5kXPqsXyHvrGBeS8nMCMTVN1L_bDGOdt5-ITvYUE269xNth6JW45QSmGDu9qS2NVV/s1600/close-up.jpg" /></a></div>
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And here is a close up of some of the flowers. I used some beads that resemble big crystals to give it some bling. The back side of the glass buttons are painted with a silver reflective surface. The tops are cut like diamonds and it gives just the hint of bling bling.. I thought it would be a fun little touch. </div>
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I thought I would take a few moments to show you how to make a chain flower that I used on my garden chain mum flower pillow. I had several friends on Facebook asked for a pattern. I thought I would put one up with some photos to show everyone how to make one. Let's have a go at it shall we?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikvipvQB88I5im5TsFPSUodgusIXfvLgX3rZIr8C5m6gJPWgHTn8_B_gXTWyszgaTz2MWBrhz_1EmwpUht1JXzisBartNnf8XZcmiLUwWA2R4DKMIVF8ypV5VjsmQyEX2S3Ng3MN0yFusE/s1600/1-chain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikvipvQB88I5im5TsFPSUodgusIXfvLgX3rZIr8C5m6gJPWgHTn8_B_gXTWyszgaTz2MWBrhz_1EmwpUht1JXzisBartNnf8XZcmiLUwWA2R4DKMIVF8ypV5VjsmQyEX2S3Ng3MN0yFusE/s1600/1-chain.jpg" /></a></div>
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Chain 4 stitches and join to make a ring with a slip stitch</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj52-KGt9IMqwLr5qSK9HPjshND5bqys-AzdeFOF6QM_9EISS8QH6kLR9Tvyf67hHdF7F_xgq4oBIdFSZ-ARODcfe_dtWgmbtrDTnbuJfim9y59_pTMGsNd33Ac8lsoR1Wh9V4ApEbPvvce/s1600/2-six-single-in-loop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj52-KGt9IMqwLr5qSK9HPjshND5bqys-AzdeFOF6QM_9EISS8QH6kLR9Tvyf67hHdF7F_xgq4oBIdFSZ-ARODcfe_dtWgmbtrDTnbuJfim9y59_pTMGsNd33Ac8lsoR1Wh9V4ApEbPvvce/s1600/2-six-single-in-loop.jpg" /></a></div>
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Chain one and then single crochet 6 stitches into the ring and then finish with a slip stitch in the beginning chain stitch.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6jMCvRgNEdr6xs3rCkwOZyBxifT-abjF-raWnSRdqfzC8Fwba81M6bQokj4veIUYAYLcJiwAkq80GyfjMBcKc-8ujtdkrwsnRDUJO7iaNmGKkNajeeP725BkNwNBXfYJ2nD7v2HptcUXw/s1600/3-twelve-single-crochet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6jMCvRgNEdr6xs3rCkwOZyBxifT-abjF-raWnSRdqfzC8Fwba81M6bQokj4veIUYAYLcJiwAkq80GyfjMBcKc-8ujtdkrwsnRDUJO7iaNmGKkNajeeP725BkNwNBXfYJ2nD7v2HptcUXw/s1600/3-twelve-single-crochet.jpg" /></a></div>
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The next row, chain one and single crochet 2 stitches in the back look only in each one of the 6 single crochet stitches to form 12 stitches total. Slip stitch to form a ring.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuShv4X6mZDdSAhMFf9ekRhQcL1JzBlqBd6mlj9Wqt0DsWyY0VEJIDGwCoB83Z8hTMR8BwGpaF6Z_wjgxqKtKmJdNmSCq-8Pm8mLEMg8Q77LXopDPMCNskGq3phyphenhyphennnvBbQNRbzHTAyGgKa/s1600/4-twenty-four-single-croche.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuShv4X6mZDdSAhMFf9ekRhQcL1JzBlqBd6mlj9Wqt0DsWyY0VEJIDGwCoB83Z8hTMR8BwGpaF6Z_wjgxqKtKmJdNmSCq-8Pm8mLEMg8Q77LXopDPMCNskGq3phyphenhyphennnvBbQNRbzHTAyGgKa/s1600/4-twenty-four-single-croche.jpg" /></a></div>
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Repeat the last row by chain one, and 2 stitches in each single crochet stitch to form 24 stitches total. Then, slip stitch again to form a ring. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRksBerwHE-8MbSKbdzwLlzAdeLTIA6cYET-eHPxv7pRVE59XoqMIiOLG8iFpRlJS6HUYg5BlX-4zpVj2u5bjgi-6JW7Vy5O3mpw39pdLpn77O_0h2Y3Fs7hz_9WSp3L6GM7fP4gYyb7Xf/s1600/5-chain-14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRksBerwHE-8MbSKbdzwLlzAdeLTIA6cYET-eHPxv7pRVE59XoqMIiOLG8iFpRlJS6HUYg5BlX-4zpVj2u5bjgi-6JW7Vy5O3mpw39pdLpn77O_0h2Y3Fs7hz_9WSp3L6GM7fP4gYyb7Xf/s1600/5-chain-14.jpg" /></a></div>
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Chain 14 stitches</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkxqe-Xnn1qDmc_Sdi5Sb5kL9PfzVffwFhjgPcSs9PuVhgfxMfl51jx5P9hTdJfSJamSQca-R6uyofB8IEwzDFr3kUx1vIDJgsRuuwYHaWJ0rcnWN7EFP1_YogJDLGtXsP6Ng8Mrn9OAP_/s1600/5-join-slip-stitch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkxqe-Xnn1qDmc_Sdi5Sb5kL9PfzVffwFhjgPcSs9PuVhgfxMfl51jx5P9hTdJfSJamSQca-R6uyofB8IEwzDFr3kUx1vIDJgsRuuwYHaWJ0rcnWN7EFP1_YogJDLGtXsP6Ng8Mrn9OAP_/s1600/5-join-slip-stitch.jpg" /></a></div>
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In the next stitch, slip stitch the end of the chain and then chain 14 again. Repeat all the way around for a total of 24 times. </div>
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Slip stitch in the beginning chain (your first chain stitch).</div>
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Then chain ten stitches. </div>
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Slip stitch on the next row down in the front loop only to secure the end. This will form the first petal of the inner row. Do this all the way around. </div>
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(Note: I did not finish this off as this was a demo flower and did not want to cut my yarn) but once you get all the way around, finish with a slip stitch in the first beginning 10 chain and then cut leaving a tail. Pull this through the back and weave in your end and secure it on the back side. </div>
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You may add a button to finish it off. Viola! You should now have a flower made. As the flower sits over time the petals start to curl up and look less loopy. Now see wasn't that easy? </div>
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How to make a leaf. </div>
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Chain 10 and then single crochet in the 2nd chain from the hook. Then a half double crochet, then a double crochet, then a triple crochet, another triple crochet, and another triple crochet. Then double crochet, and half double crochet, single crochet. When you get to the last space with the single crochet, chain three and then work your way back in reverse. When you get to the end, then tie off the two loose ends to secure the stitches. Viola! Now you have a leaf. </div>
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I hope I made this easy for you to follow. If you have any questions please feel free to ask me in the comments section so I can update this post or answer your questions there. Happy crocheting everyone!</div>
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Till next time... xxxxxxxxx</div>
<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-13547483294283364062013-06-24T19:48:00.001-07:002013-06-25T17:27:55.627-07:00Sneak Peek.. latest projects. I am still here too :) Hi everyone! <br />
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I bet you thought I abandoned this blog didn't you? I haven't abandoned it but I did take a bit of a break. I had a lot going on here on the homefront and did not have any free time to blog. I also put down my crochet hooks for a few months, and am back crocheting again. <br />
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I will give you just a tiny tiny hint and sneak peek, of what I have been up to lately. I want to make proper blog posts along with some patterns which will take some work. So, tonight I thought I would say hello to anyone that comes this way and give you a hint on the two projects. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhomUlwopTmYb-lQE5pitRv0dMtukWZlBQfdVtojx7SSW6RuFc10PtqR_EoiYDvV58tc4uEjbCiosT9bOZ-l7WCn6ZhZy5G9MnOJTUJTxxsKD3AEjab_3rSfyHxf-7ZISBJoYj0dwjChwGz/s1600/sneak-flower-granny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhomUlwopTmYb-lQE5pitRv0dMtukWZlBQfdVtojx7SSW6RuFc10PtqR_EoiYDvV58tc4uEjbCiosT9bOZ-l7WCn6ZhZy5G9MnOJTUJTxxsKD3AEjab_3rSfyHxf-7ZISBJoYj0dwjChwGz/s1600/sneak-flower-granny.jpg" /></a></div>
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This project came off the hook today, I can't wait to show off the completed project with all of you along with the pattern on how to make it.</div>
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This one I completed last week. In this photo it does not look like it will be much, but just you wait and see. It is colorful and fun. I need to write out the pattern for this one before doing a big reveal as well. </div>
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I am excited to share these with you all and just wanted to let you all know that everything is well in Charity Land. I just got side of distracted for a bit, but more on that later. </div>
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I will see you all again real soon! I promise! Until then... xxxxxxxxxx</div>
<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-67116766794297110632013-04-14T14:50:00.001-07:002013-04-14T14:50:20.124-07:00Ta Dah! The Big Reveal... Happy Summertime Butterfly Garden Bed Pillow<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSfuOrMYgGSGx-UGOuvOQHHf88PEaS84yjBJ0YENN_2AvLz40kFBBCQc9Ialooejt2hRw8qjX1RoGZJDkYwzvH9FBClL9IPYshuTrNmmFsC3yJ9V6J5wHhXhJFDweQjitNh0NmI6D73l00/s1600/bed-corner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSfuOrMYgGSGx-UGOuvOQHHf88PEaS84yjBJ0YENN_2AvLz40kFBBCQc9Ialooejt2hRw8qjX1RoGZJDkYwzvH9FBClL9IPYshuTrNmmFsC3yJ9V6J5wHhXhJFDweQjitNh0NmI6D73l00/s1600/bed-corner.jpg" /></a></div>
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I finished my Happy Springtime Butterfly Garden pillow! Ta Dah!!!! I had absolutely no idea what I was going to make when I started. I only knew that it was going to be cream colored and have flowers on it to break up the design with all the starbursts on the other pillow covers and the blanket I made for my bed. I ordered a few books with flowers in them to crochet but they did not arrive in time and I got impatient. That is when I was inspired by the flower wall hanging on Attic 24 but without all the doodads to make it hang and for it to be a wall decoration. <a href="http://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/happy-flower-decoration.html" target="_blank">You can view the pattern here</a>. The two flowers on the left I used the chain 41 for the stem like Lucy wrote in her pattern. The taller one on the middle right was a chain 51 and the one on the far right I chained on 31 for the stem. This way I would have various heights. It was a fun project and a great way to use up scraps. For the base of the pillow I measured the pillow seam to seam and once I knew the width, I then did the following to add texture and thickness so the weight of whatever I would sew on would not droop. I alternated a single crochet with a double crochet (every other stitch) all the way across. Then when I turned, where there was a single crochet on the previous row, I made a double crochet, and the next stitch where there was a double crochet on the row below, I made a single crochet. It is the crochet version of knit 1 pearl 1, but in this case it is crochet single, crochet double, repeat repeat repeat. </div>
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Once the pillow front was the same size as the pillow I was making it for, I just double crocheted and continued on until I was just 1/2 from the middle measurement (in this case 9 inches) and then I single crocheted for about another inch and a half. It is important to make several rows of single crochet to give it support for the buttons when they go on.. Then on the other end I did the same thing so that the single crochet lined up, and it was about 6 rows, so for the button holes I would chain 3 and skip those 3 stitches and crochet in the next stitch to make the button hole. Then I just made 3 more rows of single crochet. You will have to measure to find where the middle and half of each middle for your button placement. I then scalloped by 7 double crochets in a space, skip 2 spaces, slip stitch, skip 2 and then repeat the 7 double crochets again till you get to the end. I had to make a half scallop by just making 4 double crochet stitches in the 2nd to the last stitch and then a double crochet in the end stitch to square it off. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij_sDZnhyXy4pBfd2ZTHt2a3KKBz55rJuKYGKAYnJ51EOdxFS9J8z9kClvanXkYXlougO381tGdskszyFIiw6r-cNrrnrhKoRPvfw2KCcRGKQM-U4lRmmxq1pHhtLTxqBfv6Hf1jp_ueXn/s1600/butterfly-detail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij_sDZnhyXy4pBfd2ZTHt2a3KKBz55rJuKYGKAYnJ51EOdxFS9J8z9kClvanXkYXlougO381tGdskszyFIiw6r-cNrrnrhKoRPvfw2KCcRGKQM-U4lRmmxq1pHhtLTxqBfv6Hf1jp_ueXn/s1600/butterfly-detail.jpg" /></a></div>
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I made simple little butterflies that are in the book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Crochet-Bouquet-Designs-Dozens-Flowers/dp/1600591248" target="_blank">Crochet Garden by Suzann Thompson</a>. (It came yesterday and I got busy making those for the pillow, and I can't wait to review the books! So cute!). Her book is available on amazon.com</div>
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I fastened buttons on the upper wings. I thought about doing all the wings but it was just too busy doing it that way and the butterfly lost detail. So only 2 buttons. I also put big buttons in the center of each big flower.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9cw8yBllifbmDLKxVWxeWEUJWsVBWqZbd5L9IjAy_WcWO2ceAVt0sUH5Xlile-zU9BVLl9EQqX6jAP1hVyxoxVWyTXr9iG5o9YPt2uSBuFvxjFTJKTpZlgKmCuSmnXZhyphenhyphens6DBY1vKeAw9/s1600/bee-leaf-detail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9cw8yBllifbmDLKxVWxeWEUJWsVBWqZbd5L9IjAy_WcWO2ceAVt0sUH5Xlile-zU9BVLl9EQqX6jAP1hVyxoxVWyTXr9iG5o9YPt2uSBuFvxjFTJKTpZlgKmCuSmnXZhyphenhyphens6DBY1vKeAw9/s1600/bee-leaf-detail.jpg" /></a></div>
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I had a package of little bee buttons and thought they would go perfectly with this project. There were 7 in the package of various colors. I placed them all around the pillow at random to give it just that little extra detail.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2GAAK2JF7RIJXC7jhb3Eh42z0kcc49lgdGWT2BekbIidsfuWiW_VA1Ihn_7pbIzwlhdfkVAzTSv_JgWe6LGpalktXVMQTWVn4UZfRQLj8qXxg4vu-Kqj18wV7QET7GVNguHro24g6bA-P/s1600/pillow-flat-image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2GAAK2JF7RIJXC7jhb3Eh42z0kcc49lgdGWT2BekbIidsfuWiW_VA1Ihn_7pbIzwlhdfkVAzTSv_JgWe6LGpalktXVMQTWVn4UZfRQLj8qXxg4vu-Kqj18wV7QET7GVNguHro24g6bA-P/s1600/pillow-flat-image.jpg" /></a></div>
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When I stitched all the flowers and buttons and butterflies on with invisible nylon thread, I did it before sewing the side seams of the blanket. This made it a lot easier to sew because I did not have to worry about sewing the two sides together in an accident. Also, I could monkey about with it while it was laying flat this way. It really helped with placement. Once I completed all those steps, I was able to pin it together, right sides facing and lining up the back area so the single crochet areas lined up. Then I whip stitched it together and then sewed the buttons on the back. Viola! Then I had a finished happy pillow :) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP9GzO3QALTdxWr4l16AdGrpEHkI8JVHwe3W_VzzEcGxFNeEg02387Rn43ZT4Cup4hVfuKDNjKhwDquzTzavBqJW7cjLfJmX62KDXXtBZexw1aUrCtKNh2rAtpp9T_DrPd6cEZSH1A2-FI/s1600/bed-front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP9GzO3QALTdxWr4l16AdGrpEHkI8JVHwe3W_VzzEcGxFNeEg02387Rn43ZT4Cup4hVfuKDNjKhwDquzTzavBqJW7cjLfJmX62KDXXtBZexw1aUrCtKNh2rAtpp9T_DrPd6cEZSH1A2-FI/s1600/bed-front.jpg" /></a></div>
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Let's take one more look at the pillow on my bed shall we? Isn't it just adorable and happy? Dear reader, I hope this inspires you to go out and get creative and have fun as that is my entire mission with doing this blog. Please let me know what you think in the comments section. I seldom ever hear feedback here on this blog that I don't know if I am the only one enjoying these projects with sharing them with you. Feedback inspires me to create more and post more ideas and fun projects. Without it, I feel like I am just blogging to myself and it takes a lot time and energy to create blog posts. So please let me know!</div>
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Hope you are all having a wonderful day today and I hope you enjoyed this pillow. </div>
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<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-6344802717623476372013-04-14T12:16:00.001-07:002013-04-14T12:34:59.567-07:00Kimchi Recipe Time. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXbdesFMb338vSGAdovamsW6dVCAZNTZFoEv5cjGrcLmcCXvvBgJlDJj5mwggtm58z_LraLtWQtG3p8iqqyXwPfHxOM5L7RU5ka3-UOoWbhnq4kcXjPXyAvJbx2S-dI0Gr7yxZ99ldMGfY/s1600/kimchi-plated.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXbdesFMb338vSGAdovamsW6dVCAZNTZFoEv5cjGrcLmcCXvvBgJlDJj5mwggtm58z_LraLtWQtG3p8iqqyXwPfHxOM5L7RU5ka3-UOoWbhnq4kcXjPXyAvJbx2S-dI0Gr7yxZ99ldMGfY/s1600/kimchi-plated.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We love Korean food in this household. I am always surprised at how expensive the little jars in the grocery store are and to tell the truth, not very good. Years ago I had several Korean neighbors that taught me how to make kimchi. There are as many variations of kimchi as there are people in Korea I think, as each family has their own special secret blend/recipe. This is how I make it at my house. I make it with available ingredients from my grocery store. Sometimes when I am feeling fancy, I make a special trip to the Asian store and get Asian pear and other ingredients to make it fancy. But, for every day or quick pretty decent kimchi, this works in a flash. That doesn't mean that the initial ingredients for the Korean pepper and such does not require a special trip to the Asian market, but once you have that, you are good to go for a very long time. Let's get started shall we? </span></div>
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<b>Ingredients</b><br />
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2 large fresh Chinese (Nappa) cabbage, dark green outer leaves removed<br />
1 cup sea salt (available cheap at your Asian grocer and without iodine, this is important)<br />
3 heaping tbsp rice starch powder (regular kind) or 1-2 heaping tbsp glutinous rice starch. <br />
2 cups water<br />
2-3 large to medium carrots or 4 medium to small carrots.<br />
1/2 cup Korean chilli powder – aka gochugaru (not flakes, look for it at your local Korean grocery store)<br />
1 cup Korean chili flakes<br />
1/2 cup fish sauce, or ½-1 teaspoon of preserved shrimp, or 6 whole oysters finely chopped (your choice)<br />
1 tbsp white sugar<br />
2 bunches or spring onions, washed sliced 5-10 cloves of garlic, crushed (or to taste, I like a lot so I use an entire head of garlic)<br />
1 inch knob of ginger, grated <br />
1-2 teaspoons of toasted sesame oil (optional)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDvEWH0pWAfKVkKmO5cHm5awanmGdFtnS_lJ15H2LF8v7eegKS998N9g8qUfO9XWH8p6XYXbkj9g2Ug71PDsZQo7utiL40OM5X2mjKnake_KH6bRsU-247Ko6pCHQNDpeq9uj2Bgm5x-21/s1600/cut-and-salt-cabbage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDvEWH0pWAfKVkKmO5cHm5awanmGdFtnS_lJ15H2LF8v7eegKS998N9g8qUfO9XWH8p6XYXbkj9g2Ug71PDsZQo7utiL40OM5X2mjKnake_KH6bRsU-247Ko6pCHQNDpeq9uj2Bgm5x-21/s1600/cut-and-salt-cabbage.jpg" /></a></div>
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Chop cabbage into about 1 1/2 to 2 inch slices so that it is bite size. Place in large pot and mix with the 1 cup of salt. Make sure it is sea salt and not the iodized salt from the grocery store. I purchase the natural style sea salt for very cheap in 10 lb bags at my Asian grocers. As a matter of fact, that is all we use for salt now. It has no flow agents or other added ingredients. It is much tastier and it works a lot better in kimchi. Once this is mixed together place to one side for about 1/2 hour or so while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.</div>
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Chop up some scallions into 1 inch pieces and put to one side. Be sure to slice them down the middle on the heads so you don't end up with big pieces. Set them to one side in a bowl for later. You can either grate the carrot or you can cut them into fine matchsticks. I used this giant grater that was my grandmothers and is very old. Just use whatever is available. However, a regular size cheese grater is too fine. You want some texture. Add the carrots to the salted cabbage and mix around with your hands. </div>
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In a sauce pan whisk your 2 cups of water with the rice flour. Heat until very thick and bubbly. It should be almost like a pudding in thickness. Set to one side and let this cool while you prepare the next step.</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">You will need to choose which type of fish type ingredient you need to make this. I am using the shrimp paste today. Do not fret, it will not make this fishy tasting but it goes a long way in aiding the flavor. Some use about 1/2 cup of fish sauce and others use about 1/2 dozen of chopped up fresh raw oysters and I commonly use some sort of shrimp paste. (image 1)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Next I put an entire head of garlic that has been peeled and the one inch hunk of ginger root into my mini food processor. If you don't have one, don't worry, you can just chop and mince finely with your knife or in a blender will work too. Next I add about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of the shrimp paste. (image 2) and then I add just a little bit of the rice flour mixture that I boiled to this to aid in chopping and blending the garlic and other ingredients like the sugar, etc.. Give it a good whirl until well blended. (image 3).</span></div>
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I like to use 2 types of chili pepper. It comes crushed and also powdered. They are the same thing, except one is finer ground. I like to use both as the finer adds color but the flakes add texture and interest. Add a little of both or just the powdered or just the flakes if that is all you have on hand. I gave a guideline in the recipe as to how much to add, but really this is to your taste. Some years the pepper flakes and powder is more mild than others. I would use caution and keep adding to your tastes. This pepper is not super hot so don't be afraid of it. I purchase this at the Asian grocery. You MUST use the Korean pepper flakes as if you use something else it will ruin your kimchi. This is a different pepper flake than the type you purchase in the supermarket for putting on pizza for instance, just as the powder is not the same thing as paprika. (image 4)</div>
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Add the chili powder to the rice flour paste and whisk in with the other ingredients you just pulverized (image 5 & 6). Set to one side.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt7Wqmw_X1m9WRops7_UHYbYBGaBtImNMqR-LnyP0V_Ybay78yO0sKaFcpRJvWQrV8vU0JlGdA6qor-nxD6zgFjOl2EyUclDBZQFOcPBRPgyZjyrYemtOMG2-OfTqmif7kAscAj99SbDzM/s1600/mix-in-with-cabbage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt7Wqmw_X1m9WRops7_UHYbYBGaBtImNMqR-LnyP0V_Ybay78yO0sKaFcpRJvWQrV8vU0JlGdA6qor-nxD6zgFjOl2EyUclDBZQFOcPBRPgyZjyrYemtOMG2-OfTqmif7kAscAj99SbDzM/s1600/mix-in-with-cabbage.jpg" /></a></div>
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After about 1/2 hour to an hour has passed you will notice that your really full big pot of salted cabbage has wilted and reduced down to about 1/2 the height. You will need to wash the cabbage to get the excess salt out. Fill your big pot with cold water and swish around like you are doing laundry by hand (image 1) and then drain (image 2). You will need to do this about 3 times to get all the excess salt out. Take a piece of the cabbage and taste it. It should be slightly salty but not salty like a potato chip. After it has drained transfer back into the pot and add about 2/3 of the hot pepper paste that you just made and about 1/2 - 2/3 of the sliced green onion. (image 3) Mix with your hand until well incorporated and then taste. At this stage if you removed too much of the salt you might add some, and this is also the stage to add some optional sesame oil and then mix well with your hands again. (image 4) and then put into a container and press down well with your hands until some liquid comes to the top to cover the leaves. (image 5). You don't want the cabbage exposed while it ferments or it can get moldy. This is very important. Set out on the counter in a covered container for a few days to let it ferment. Congratulations!!! You just made kimchi. After a day or two move to the fridge and eat it with rice or your favorite Korean dish. The longer you keep it the more sour it becomes. Once it becomes too sour to eat, don't throw it out.. You can make kimchi jiggae (kimchi stew) from it. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixZErzTufoPFs5NsN5rYvb_tphLJb3JwI1EDvKxHUyeE7UaV1Piq6iCKW5F6zkNhSMUI1sTMbqD83sjpeGN7ZcgsH0aYJneJfKP8iqobH6viwOQc4U2Q9XFfwGO0mTLUiU6T59AyK6sTAe/s1600/cucumber-kimchi-steps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixZErzTufoPFs5NsN5rYvb_tphLJb3JwI1EDvKxHUyeE7UaV1Piq6iCKW5F6zkNhSMUI1sTMbqD83sjpeGN7ZcgsH0aYJneJfKP8iqobH6viwOQc4U2Q9XFfwGO0mTLUiU6T59AyK6sTAe/s1600/cucumber-kimchi-steps.jpg" /></a></div>
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Bonus Recipe: Remember that little bit of left over kimchi paste and onion from making the above recipe? Well... Here is the bonus recipe. Traditionally this uses pickling cucumbers but I did not have any. I have English seedless cucumber so that is what I am using for demonstration purposes. If using the baby cukes just leave them whole and slice down the center like in image one. If using a big seedless cucumber like I did, just cut into about 3 inch slices and then cut an X like shown above. Do not cut all the way down. Cut down to about 1/2 inch remaining to keep the cucumber intact. Then spoon some of the sea salt into the slices and let sit in a bowl and drain out (image 2). Wash the salt out after about an hour or so (image 3)</div>
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Take the remaining scallions and paste and mix together. Stuff the inside of the cucumbers with this mixture. Place in a container and then massage any extra left over paste on the outsides of the cucumbers. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiFjcGCc-YdqC1cE35gbKce8Ey1KFtuCZ5bsBa2ds3owpRBEqNAd6aPL7XnUBEY2dWmzeXImiRicuFK2xefVQLBfqsODS9AxtPzomWTGR9ZbYG-zZRvQJOeiU5LzLuRK7aOn5xzlSHxbTj/s1600/cucumber-kimchi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiFjcGCc-YdqC1cE35gbKce8Ey1KFtuCZ5bsBa2ds3owpRBEqNAd6aPL7XnUBEY2dWmzeXImiRicuFK2xefVQLBfqsODS9AxtPzomWTGR9ZbYG-zZRvQJOeiU5LzLuRK7aOn5xzlSHxbTj/s1600/cucumber-kimchi.jpg" /></a></div>
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Sprinkle the top of the cucumbers with some toasted sesame seeds. Place this in the fridge for a day or two and then eat. </div>
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Now you never need to purchase store bought kimchi again and these are made from easily available ingredients without having to hunt down Asian pears, etc. each time you make it. Once you make the initial purchase of the pepper flakes and sea salt, etc. You will be making kimchi often. </div>
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Bon Appetite! </div>
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Until next time........xxxxxxxxxxx</div>
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Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-60166540094397994382013-04-12T14:20:00.000-07:002013-04-12T14:49:43.109-07:00Quick Tip: Recycling kitchen scraps.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigK61uqwZVsGXRTL53LlbBYLI18aPCRMEn_AJrf6i8aM7K0yf-McXDEo-sZ-Q21XPNVbz9gp3qa1LujVgQ-IOCb0paNDawP8D7862otEvcdyYWJkFFsViHgCTyWjquzqau9a8enwnNYgNG/s1600/scallion-dish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigK61uqwZVsGXRTL53LlbBYLI18aPCRMEn_AJrf6i8aM7K0yf-McXDEo-sZ-Q21XPNVbz9gp3qa1LujVgQ-IOCb0paNDawP8D7862otEvcdyYWJkFFsViHgCTyWjquzqau9a8enwnNYgNG/s1600/scallion-dish.jpg" /></a></div>
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I was in the kitchen making kimchi (I will post about that later) and remembered that if you save the heads off your green onions (or scallions if you will) and plant them they will grow new onion plants. I did this once years ago with some scallions that were starting to go bad in the fridge and just planted them right in the ground, and they grew new ones.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRW448EhUH4ooa8c21W-a0M5EZk7bxtW7HkTk6HLbL0zcoxy3HiE5ZamBlz8d_prTYVF_7rhpebEtatC_mwRubjnhlbP7LyrmLtg0zjNM4kGNWJ12C1do52IEz_r_-cwiJ_RYHYY5zLR5m/s1600/scallion-planted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRW448EhUH4ooa8c21W-a0M5EZk7bxtW7HkTk6HLbL0zcoxy3HiE5ZamBlz8d_prTYVF_7rhpebEtatC_mwRubjnhlbP7LyrmLtg0zjNM4kGNWJ12C1do52IEz_r_-cwiJ_RYHYY5zLR5m/s1600/scallion-planted.jpg" /></a></div>
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After I finished cooking I took the scallions that I placed in some cold water so they don't dry out until they went into the garden. Simply just make some simple rows and place one about every inch or two apart and then cover with soil. Before long, if you keep them watered, they will grow new green onions. It is a frugal way to extend those green onions that you purchase in the supermarket. </div>
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You can also do this with carrot tops, potato peels and many other crops. I save the seeds from many squash that I purchase and use those to grow new ones too. Give it a try, you have nothing to lose and free crops of food to gain. </div>
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I just thought I would share this quick tip with all of you out there in internet land. </div>
<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-12808048963030869892013-04-12T07:30:00.002-07:002013-04-12T07:30:58.027-07:00There goes the diet! (and how to fry oysters)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj41CS7NTDDbLk0jIXbfLPQCdP3XuV8Y31pdSCwhMUgOc7CIvmiNpVo06Om68OT_jh-2Fpk_gaArCcpw15Au5sC-RhAagf5ygNr8kQ0WOERGcWWmHMdG5itoKVQR_cQO2sn0Nf2f4lI8ifN/s1600/oysters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj41CS7NTDDbLk0jIXbfLPQCdP3XuV8Y31pdSCwhMUgOc7CIvmiNpVo06Om68OT_jh-2Fpk_gaArCcpw15Au5sC-RhAagf5ygNr8kQ0WOERGcWWmHMdG5itoKVQR_cQO2sn0Nf2f4lI8ifN/s1600/oysters.jpg" /></a></div>
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Have you ever noticed that as soon as you think about dieting, then something comes into your house to challenge that plan? Case in point, world famous extra small Hood Canal Oysters! We like them fried, that is not too friendly to the waistline along with tarter sauce. Of course I had to have blue cheese dressing on my salad. Oh well... I will try harder today. The thing is, we will not purchase oysters any month that does not contain an "R" in it. That means no oysters for May, June, July or August. They are soft and mushy and spawning those months. This is the last month that we get to enjoy them until next September so I am not going to feel too guilty. If I had the time, I would just go out to the canal myself and sit on the beach with some lemons and my trusty oyster shucking knife and eat them raw on the half shell. I have pleasant memories of doing that more times than I can count. If I had time to kill, I would be out there right now!</div>
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The easiest way to fry oysters is just to take some flour and add your favorite seasoning in one bowl, and some egg wash (just a beaten egg with a Tablespoon or so of water) in another. I then dredge in the flour seasoning mixture, then into the egg, back into the flour and into a pan of hot oil (but not too hot). I just pan fry on both sides until golden brown which is just about 2-3 minutes on each side. That's it! </div>
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Last night after eating I thought a quick 3 mile walk around my favorite forest paths would help settle some of the guilt from eating fried foods. Look at this root ball clump and how nature is re-claiming it. When giant douglas fir trees come down in a wind storm, they have very tall root balls taller than you and me together standing on each other's shoulders. </div>
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The wonderful thing about living in a rain forest is some of the cool things I witness while walking. Look at the thick moss on this tree and from that, ferns begin to grow on the tree itself. It is quite beautiful to look at don't you think?</div>
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And there are many types of moss. Look at this long and hair moss that grows from the tree limbs here. Isn't it beautiful?</div>
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While I was out walking this trillium was just asking to have it's photo snapped. The sun came out for a little bit and this trillium was growing right in the middle of a split tree trunk that had 3 trees growing up and they were all mossy and green. Smack in the center was this trillium and the sun came beaming through the forest cover to illuminate this one flower. It was more beautiful in real life. </div>
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Wild woodland violets are starting to bloom on the forest floor and cover it with a happy blanket of little yellow flowers. I imagine being a little tiny woodland fairy or something frolicking about when I view them. They sure are a sight and just make me feel happy inside.</div>
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A sure sign that spring is here, is not the weather because it is stormy and cold with sun breaks... but instead, passing by the ball fields are groups of various baseball teams practicing for their summer leagues. It is rather fun to sit and watch the kids clumsily play and miss catching the ball and miss hitting it with the bat when it is their turn to go up to bat. I am sure with practice they will get better. </div>
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Today I hope to continue to work on my crochet project so I can get that put up soon.</div>
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<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-49875201581274102592013-04-11T10:59:00.003-07:002013-04-11T10:59:54.532-07:00Pillow decorating and happiness over the simple things in life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglXHubVkGI24UND_5woj-jl8gtRNa6F2IsjOGGaTGkLV2ENt1NocAPCIQzeFHdhEDh5Td-0Aok5Qp6b1d1vYvNI_1i-yDc4KcM71gtE7Ziab38Hhz96XDXV6m4pCirI0qofE89DD3W_Kod/s1600/flowers-pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglXHubVkGI24UND_5woj-jl8gtRNa6F2IsjOGGaTGkLV2ENt1NocAPCIQzeFHdhEDh5Td-0Aok5Qp6b1d1vYvNI_1i-yDc4KcM71gtE7Ziab38Hhz96XDXV6m4pCirI0qofE89DD3W_Kod/s1600/flowers-pillow.jpg" /></a></div>
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A good Thursday to all of you. I hope all is well out in the blogging world. My spirits are returning and I am getting back into enjoying the every day things in life again. My decision to disconnect from social media like Facebook for a while was the right decision. With the way of the world right now, there was just too much negative attention on all that is wrong with the world. I want to concentrate on all that is right in the world instead... And there are so many things that are right in the world. </div>
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<a href="http://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/happy-flower-decoration.html" target="_blank">I have been playing with the flower pattern that Lucy at Attic 24 designed</a>. She designed it for a wall hanging but I have been playing with it to instead turn it into motifs for my pillow that will go on my bed. I will be making them all different sizes and lengths and kind of random as far as colors go from the scrap basket. Originally I didn't think I would do this and wanted to hold off until some of the books I ordered recently from Amazon.com came, but I am too impatient and decided to play with her design and instead of using it as a wall hanging, turn it into a motif. I am picturing this with various size flowers and maybe some crocheted butterflies or something to turn it into a fun and festive garden pillow. </div>
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The weather here has been dreadful and the nice warm blast we had a week or two ago with sunshine has gone into hiding. This is perfect weather for completing such projects.</div>
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I have decided to think about things that make me happy! I was out front with my kitty cat and watching him guard his post on the front steps. His head moved like clockwork from side to side like watching a tennis match. This really made me chuckle... He was so intense with his stare. He is a great guard and takes his job so seriously.</div>
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Of course all that guarding of the property makes for a very tired and lazy afternoon nap. I just want to curl up and sleep next to him. It is really hard to resist going back to bed when you see a cute and adorable kitty cat all snuggled up.</div>
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My new salt mill on the right that I got for Easter from a dear friend, to match the pepper mill on the left that she purchased for Christmas for me makes me giddy. Are they not the cutest salt and pepper mills you ever did see? Every time I cook I think of her now. I have them filled with whole fresh pepper corns and big grains of sea salts. It really does making cooking a lot of fun. I will think of Lora every time I cook. We go way back in our friendship. She is the friend that we were together and joined at the hip during our teen years. Can you believe that even as dramatic drama filled teenage girls, we never once had a fight! I can't ever remember not getting along with her ever.. A friend like that is a rare gem and a rare find. I am very blessed not only for these salt and pepper mills but more for what they symbolize. Life is good!</div>
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With all the cold rainy weather, hot soup has been on the menu. I really enjoyed curling up and hooking on my pillow after enjoying a nice big bowl of French onion soup au gratin. It is such a simple thing but oh so good and oh so comforting. Yesterday was absolutely stormy in the morning and I already have a giant pot of clam chowder on the menu to make soon. I purchased all the ingredients at Costco yesterday for that. </div>
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An apple pie goes a long ways in brightening the mood around here. There is nothing like a hot slice of pie with some tea. I wanted to tell you all that when you roll out your pie dough and there are little bits of scraps left not to waste them! Instead roll them out, and use a cookie cutter to make decorative shapes to place on top. If there is enough flour on the cutting board when you roll it out, then you will be able to "glue" your shapes to the pie and decorate it. Simply just dip your finger in some ice water and dab on the back of the shape before placing on the pie. I then brush the pie with some melted butter and sprinkle with some sugar to give it a golden color, which makes the shapes stand out that much more. A pretty pie makes me very happy. </div>
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All in all, life is good. I hope these images helped to lift your spirits as much as they have mine. Sometimes it is just those little simple things in life that keeps me happy. I don't wish to live in a cave and block out the world completely. I do like to know world events and what is going on and I am actually very active with the process of democracy, but a little of that goes a long way. I can only take so much of it and it does not serve me well to sit all day and see reminders of it and concentrate on "we are doomed, the world is one messed up place". I like to get my news for the day and then move on. I think one can drive themselves insane by sitting and watching the news all day long with the doom and gloom. Well, that was what was happening to me with reading Facebook because link after link of news stories and strong opinions on world events. It was just too much doom and gloom collectively and I was facing burn out. I am enjoying my vacation time away from it and once again settled into the happy little things in life. </div>
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Life is great if you can just look around you and enjoy the bounty and be grateful for what you have no matter how simple it is. They say, a person is not grateful because they are happy, but happy because they are grateful. I find this to be very true! </div>
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So stop what you are doing, look around and pick 5 things you are grateful for right now, no matter how simple it is... it goes a long way in feeling inner peace and happiness. It works for me :) </div>
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Until next time... xxxxxxxxx</div>
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<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-20878860942074805782013-04-09T18:44:00.001-07:002013-04-09T18:54:41.260-07:00Pillows and more pillows, to complete the bedroom set. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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Hi everyone! I have been strangely silent here for the last 2 weeks. I have so many things going on and a lot of catching up to do. But for now, I will post a little about my crochet project. I am still working hard to complete a bedroom set and it is slowly coming together piece by piece. Between gardening and spring, my crocheting has slowed down a bit due to a few nice days here and there. Also, I have been in a bit of a funk lately. I think all the world events kind of got to me some along with spending too much time on Facebook when I had free time instead of being creative. There simply were too many in your face type posts where everyone has a strong and many times unpleasant opinion on everything, and even strong opinions on the least offensive things... and you NEED to know it because people these days are in your face regardless if you want to know or not. Multiply that time whatever amount of your hundreds of friends and it was too much. I unplugged and have been decompressing and spending that time thinking about my diet/working out and happier things, and my creative juju is returning. As you can see in the above photo I got the second pillow finished for my bed.</div>
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As you can see they both button up the back. Forgive the crinkles as I was not careful to straighten it out before taking the photo and for now, there are some pretty old and lumpy pillows in those covers. I need to go purchase a few new ones, as these pillows never get used and are more just there to take up space when the bed is made.</div>
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Here they are on the bed and the bedroom set is not complete. The cat is sleeping on the ripple blanket that I have folded up on the edge of the bed for now. Things will change. Right now I am sleeping on a day bed but I have a bigger bed in storage. Since it is just me sleeping in this bed, I have been keeping my queen size bed in storage and just using this one so there is more room in my bedroom. The blanket is big enough to fit a larger bed and is currently tucked in on the back side. The set has the busy bits completed...</div>
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I am currently working on the 3rd pillow but it is going to take me some time to complete. Here is the stitch detail on the front of the bed pillow. The back will be the same as the others. I have no idea exactly what I will be doing other than the fact that it will have lots of flowers all over it in the same scraps that I used on the rest of the motifs for the bed.</div>
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If you go to Attic 24, Lucy has a wall decoration of a big flower and a stem with each leaf a different color. Here is the beginning of one I am playing with. I thought it would be cute to go with another flower instead of hers... but I am not sure of what I will do yet.</div>
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I have a box full of buttons and I might add these happy little bees buzzing around some of the flowers, but I am not sure yet.</div>
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I also have these happy little buttons of smiley happy flowers too! </div>
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I am just going to continue on making things to put on the pillow to decorate it and see what it wants to be when it is finished. Then I have 2 smaller 16x16 inch throw pillow blanks that I purchased and they too will go on the bed, along with a matching throw blanket. </div>
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I have a long way to go but I am getting excited again... I can't wait to see what it will be when it is finished as I am flying with it all... </div>
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I hope everyone is doing well and that you all are having a happy creative spring! Which reminds me, I have a lot of flower and nature things to share soon. Now that I am getting my juju back, I will catch up and I hope you like it. </div>
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Until next time... xxxxxxxx</div>
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<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-35990666122977138802013-03-27T17:09:00.000-07:002013-03-27T17:11:04.300-07:00Last Thursday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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Sometimes we can live in a town for many many years and never discover all the hidden treasures that are about. This is true even in a small town. I have been meaning to upload some images from last Thursday but have not had a chance to do so. I can't keep putting things off or something new comes along and soon it is just a faded long ago memory. I don't want this to become like that... so I am being mindful to upload this now. A friend that is on our city council kicked off his campaign at the most gorgeous house. I always see this big white home when riding the ferry boat to and from the neighboring town. You can see the ferry boat coming into town in the above photo. From down there, this house always looked amazing but little did I know the treasures that lurk behind the walls. The home was built in 1909 and was recently renovated and turned back to it's former glory. It is now a bed and breakfast, but we will get to that in a minute.</div>
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I did not capture images of all the rooms, but there are 7 of them and all for rent. Either for the night, week, month or whatever... you can even rent the entire house out. Of course each one is so beautiful with their own bathroom.</div>
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This room I just love as the wrap around deck and doors to walk out on it and did I mention the views? Oh yes, the views are splendid! </div>
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I didn't spend a lot of time photographing the bathrooms but if I had, you would see that each one is decorated in a retro fashion with antiques all the way through. Each bathroom has a deep claw foot tub for taking long and luxurious baths. </div>
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There is a lot of attention to detail here. Even the smallest nook have things of interest like books and such for reading. You can just pick one up and go out on the deck, or in the yard or your room, or one of the sitting rooms and curl up.</div>
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Can you imagine curling up in this room with a fire in the fireplace and the spectacular view from the window? (more view photos to follow)</div>
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Here is yet another fireplace with a cozy room to curl up in. Right behind me where I am standing is a table with some big comfy chairs, and a spectacular view to be seen.</div>
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I took this photo from that very window. It was a strange day that day, regarding the weather. One minute it would be dark and stormy and the next bright and sunny... I happened to capture this just as the clouds were rolling in. About 5 minutes after I snapped this photo, you could not see across the bay for the next half hour.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGclI6BybPk6jZBrLXSyInDGIuP5tgp0Lnba1REZIevlxniNQEUhQoswfAs3teiyPw-36DzPUnslvwZdM7l0ZXQ6R7Oybkjp8LV7I8xjPS0dPajowh7Jzr435MHA7Vl68A8s3gfAyNoHmH/s1600/wine-glass-left.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGclI6BybPk6jZBrLXSyInDGIuP5tgp0Lnba1REZIevlxniNQEUhQoswfAs3teiyPw-36DzPUnslvwZdM7l0ZXQ6R7Oybkjp8LV7I8xjPS0dPajowh7Jzr435MHA7Vl68A8s3gfAyNoHmH/s1600/wine-glass-left.jpg" /></a></div>
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But do not fear, It quickly started to lighten up again out there I went out on the deck and enjoyed a few minutes with my glass of wine and took in the view. Isn't it lovely?</div>
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Here is the view with the wine glass used as a reference point. It is taken from outside and a little better view than the photo taken that was dark and stormy. It shows our little downtown shopping area and the main street known as "Bay Street". </div>
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I wish I would have taken time to photograph the entire kitchen but it was buzzing with people preparing food for the party that was starting. The kitchen is huge and just ever so lovely. </div>
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Everyone was mingling in the dining room around the food when I first arrived... And that is how I was able to get so many unspoiled photos of the house. It seems where there is lots of food and wine, the people gather and remain.</div>
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When the house was originally built back in 1909, the original owners lived in this tiny log cabin. It has since been opened up and is now an outside seating area to pass the time away outdoors. There is even a fireplace in case it gets a little chilly outside.</div>
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And last but not least, it is not the best photo in the world of me, but I thought it fun. Why? Because if you look close, I have eleventy billion fingers due to the bevel in the antique mirror. </div>
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If you want to know more about the house, and how to book a room, please visit their site.</div>
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<a href="http://cedarcoveinn.com/" target="_blank">Cedar Cove Inn. </a> </div>
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I really love discovering little hidden gems like this one don't you? The owners of this home are nice as can be and it is simply beautiful. If you are ever in my neck of the woods, give them a ring :) </div>
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<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-29522485731135912382013-03-27T12:40:00.000-07:002013-03-27T12:40:49.224-07:00 First circle to square pillow complete. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj32Ic96agbSVwcr_q9UARw4QBDRRgntcMz9az8ztFnMFiF57olEscXwAAjxbieQE4E7dv5YjydDy8U-OfwOBVZvUp3KwxXgFJ-MpHnuJ3giCYDYgnBsT1HRbQPbDX7WjQQTmeLcfN20Lsj/s1600/pillow-front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj32Ic96agbSVwcr_q9UARw4QBDRRgntcMz9az8ztFnMFiF57olEscXwAAjxbieQE4E7dv5YjydDy8U-OfwOBVZvUp3KwxXgFJ-MpHnuJ3giCYDYgnBsT1HRbQPbDX7WjQQTmeLcfN20Lsj/s1600/pillow-front.jpg" /></a></div>
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Last night I finished off the first of several pillows to go with the bedroom set I am making for my bed. It will go with the flowers in the snow blanket I completed not too long ago. I am covering a couple of full sized bed pillows with this design. Then I will do something different with another bed sized pillow to contrast these and then make a few throw pillows to contrast as well. I want to break things up a bit when it is all said and done. Here is the front side of the pillow. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZeAef-RHb2H0PfV5Y-_jeF1OvoYrLjcNdAJP3DQYkLusowxNyToMpicZE_sQ5KbH_Cazu9Jh_CR7phaQGCIgmSl_QMNOlFmCUio1uhSrzbJFSyZFpDRyXGdVEoLxUyATvAcZIaUvUZ5o2/s1600/pillow-back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZeAef-RHb2H0PfV5Y-_jeF1OvoYrLjcNdAJP3DQYkLusowxNyToMpicZE_sQ5KbH_Cazu9Jh_CR7phaQGCIgmSl_QMNOlFmCUio1uhSrzbJFSyZFpDRyXGdVEoLxUyATvAcZIaUvUZ5o2/s1600/pillow-back.jpg" /></a></div>
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This is the back side of the pillow. It buttons together to keep everything enclosed and also so I can slip off the cover easily for washing. I added the scallop so the pillow can be sitting on the bed in either direction and still be cute. I am excited to get it all finished so I can see it all together. I hope I can get this all done before spring is over with! I am going with the cream color as the main color on all of it and then adding splashes of color all over. I am using up the last of my scraps and there are more again because recently my neighbor gifted me with a huge box of even more! I don't know when I will start to play with all that new yarn I just purchased. I want to finish all this off first. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQR30giPmJ7qeOOTadkih8S1l_SYx6WiRLs22HILjTq9Hc4NX5XO0QgFrF_jygcHAauyWgbFc3nOR7kXDs2Fs3thXRM6oXRnr47jAMD6mCJ1AzNWG1Zw-DexPHrpG41Y51NbsPNuxdCGRa/s1600/Skunkcabbage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQR30giPmJ7qeOOTadkih8S1l_SYx6WiRLs22HILjTq9Hc4NX5XO0QgFrF_jygcHAauyWgbFc3nOR7kXDs2Fs3thXRM6oXRnr47jAMD6mCJ1AzNWG1Zw-DexPHrpG41Y51NbsPNuxdCGRa/s1600/Skunkcabbage.jpg" /></a></div>
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On my walk yesterday in the forest I noticed that the forest is coming alive with color. You have no idea what I had to go through to get this shot of skunk cabbage! It was a sorry sight for sure to be seen. I am glad nobody was along for the walk and got to witness me crawling over and under all kinds of mossy, wet, fallen forest debris and through a swamp that burp with each spongy step. Then all around me through the corner of my eyes, big crawly things bobbing up and down through the wet and stagnant swamp water. But... I did manage to capture a shot of swamp cabbage flower. There were a lot of them out there but I wasn't about to continue to trek through the swampy portion of the woods. All sorts of bugs were landing on me and making me itch so it was time to move on. </div>
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There were stands of native Trillium all through the forest. They are such cheerful flowers. The blossoms are large and bright along a contrast of 12 inch high stems. As they age and mature and start to fade, they will take on a pink color. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9UXHPaMnr3inNZSjWLiZX7aRdVQXAUOgTccbpS0NVgXEUPsTouFwBfm_mzMWM7AMHy_zY5IZEj61dsxYO-ssXfXspsHf4InZBOlW-Rp6WBus1etGkRWLgM9bLhyT0bknriB3Aq5w2EfiG/s1600/Salmonberry-Blossom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9UXHPaMnr3inNZSjWLiZX7aRdVQXAUOgTccbpS0NVgXEUPsTouFwBfm_mzMWM7AMHy_zY5IZEj61dsxYO-ssXfXspsHf4InZBOlW-Rp6WBus1etGkRWLgM9bLhyT0bknriB3Aq5w2EfiG/s1600/Salmonberry-Blossom.jpg" /></a></div>
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Speaking of pink... The salmonberry blossoms are in full bloom. They are simply beautiful. I can't wait until later in the summer when the salmonberries are ripe. They never seem to make it home when I do pick them as they get eaten straight out of the bucket when I am wandering through the forest. These are native to the region that I live in and are not a widely known berry around the world. When they are fully ripe they range "salmon" in color to redish in color</div>
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All in all, it was a great day and I got a lot of walking time in, followed by some hooking time in the evening. </div>
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I hope everyone is enjoying spring time weather for those of you in the northern hemisphere. This weekend is supposed to be fabulous and warm where I live. It will be time to spend the weekend out in the gardens preparing the flower and vegetable beds again. I must finish up with all the winter weeds so I can have fun out there. </div>
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Until next time......xxxxxxxxxx</div>
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<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-42202404965554000102013-03-25T18:23:00.002-07:002013-03-25T18:25:23.915-07:00Making pillow covers to complete a set<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAnZ2uqJskKiWqwUL_pLBHl1XbfqfU86fIC7rNUj_sLVvzeFoVZp82vyW6E3e2CDYEqEIancpnykxTITjIhltyzaKN20Wz9Oo3IzpCcNGE6nCzhc4OcVNKhljxPSpeny4DLv_6hsi81TDn/s1600/DSCN1721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAnZ2uqJskKiWqwUL_pLBHl1XbfqfU86fIC7rNUj_sLVvzeFoVZp82vyW6E3e2CDYEqEIancpnykxTITjIhltyzaKN20Wz9Oo3IzpCcNGE6nCzhc4OcVNKhljxPSpeny4DLv_6hsi81TDn/s1600/DSCN1721.jpg" /></a></div>
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For the last week or two, I have been making circles from the remainder of scraps I had on hand. I didn't know what I was going to do with them but I had an idea in my head. I thought making some matching pillows and a small throw blanket would be nice to add to the flowers in the snow blanket and make a set for my bed to adorn this spring. When I have had a few minutes here and there I kept building circles. They are very basic and I have seen a variety of projects using them. Then I decided to turn them into basic squares. The circle is just chain 3, join with a slip stitch, and then make a total of 12 double crochets (or chain 3, then 11 double crochets) to make a round. Join with a slip stitch and then the 2nd round, chain 3 in the first space and a double crochet in that same space, and chain 1. Then all the way around make 2 double crochets until you have a total of 12 double clusters. Then round 3, make a granny square stitch with 3 double crochets and a chain between them and finish off... For the square portion I just made 3 double crochets in the corner, then 3 half double crochets in the next 2 spaces, and then a 3 double crochet, chain 2, 3 double crochet to finish off the corner and do this all the way around. </div>
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Yesterday was a day of rest for me, so I sat around reading books and finishing off the circles to start making some of them into pillow covers for my bed.</div>
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On each square I left a tail about 3 times as long as one side of a square and used those to stitch them into rows. I stitched back row/loop only so it would be a flat seam. For each bed pillow, that is a total of 24 squares. Then I took some yarn and stitched the rows together.</div>
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After I completed them both, I did a row of single crochet all the way around with 3 stitches in each corner. Then a row of double crochet all the way around with 3 stitches in each corner.</div>
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I am now working on the back side... So it is not completed yet. But I think it will look fabulous with the Flowers in the Snow blanket, don't you?</div>
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Also, I have been super busy lately and feel a bit behind when it comes to blogging. I have emails on ravelry that I have not answered asking for a half african flower tutorial, but I haven't had time to go there yet. I have still yet to make up a lotion tutorial for folks that I promised, and a lot of busy times that have kept me away from the internet. I will do my best to catch up, I am feeling a little guilty. But you all know how it is to balance hobbies and life and all that... I figure when I have a bit of quiet time then I will catch up right? So it is all good :) </div>
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And last but not least, I have an entire update centered around a fabulous old house with the most amazing views that I had the pleasure to visit and drink a glass of wine... This house I am completely smitten with. Here is a little preview.</div>
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Just looking at the photo, I want to go back there! </div>
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Until next time... xxxxxxxxxxx</div>
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<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-43149102488258926652013-03-18T23:25:00.000-07:002013-03-18T23:32:18.507-07:00A week in review... Sometimes life is so busy, that I can't possibly share it all here, and I want to share so much more. I feel like I need to be better at it. Here is some fragments of my evening walk tonight... I can't even begin to share the beauty of the pacific northwest in it's true fashion as in every turn, there is something more beautiful. I can only hope to share the feeling I feel every evening when I take a walk. I put in anyplace from a lazy day which is only 3 miles up to 3 loops in my little forest which is 9 miles. Some days I break it up and upon waking... I do 3 miles in the morning and another 3-6 in the evening... Here are some random moments from tonight.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFoxIqeAKpydQZ02WNK3mz1k-vKPCg2zlUNBYbTCBQHqWIK5bZvE0KYXZv49xxwf5_6En8koQyPYs5hbE_DIsLs8W0YZLEBfpuhzDfqtsyTvVQ2vCr9lzOdpqUQefqTtuNxBtZsXXDvK7g/s1600/Untitled-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFoxIqeAKpydQZ02WNK3mz1k-vKPCg2zlUNBYbTCBQHqWIK5bZvE0KYXZv49xxwf5_6En8koQyPYs5hbE_DIsLs8W0YZLEBfpuhzDfqtsyTvVQ2vCr9lzOdpqUQefqTtuNxBtZsXXDvK7g/s1600/Untitled-11.jpg" /></a></div>
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And... I made lotion today as my supply was getting low. I hope to put up a tutorial soon. I am a master at formulary and want to share with all of you how to make at the very least, a cream or lotion for home use.</div>
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I hope to have a tutorial up soon for this so you can follow it. </div>
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Then there are moments where I just enjoyed day to day life with St Paddy Day</div>
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Irish soda bread with lots of caraway seeds.</div>
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Corned beef and cabbage in the crock pot simmering all day long</div>
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Enjoying life with my feet up</div>
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Cabbage... with corned beef</div>
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And walking to church and enjoying the fellowship along with the view of the mountains on a crisp cool morning.</div>
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Church hands, not to be confused with jazz hands</div>
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The mountains and the view I see on my way walking to church</div>
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And the garden I planted last fall with all heirloom seeds, and seeing them come up so that I will have an early spring harvest, in time for a spring planting later on. I have broccoli, spinach, beets and other yummies.</div>
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Spinach</div>
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Broccoli</div>
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and the love of pets, and all the glory of spring</div>
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Buddy Boy</div>
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Daffodils</div>
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Daphne bush... oh the glorious scent</div>
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Ms. Lucy protecting her crochet blanket</div>
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Oh how I wish I had more time to go into detail and describe it all.. I am sorry for that dear reader. However, I will let the photos speak for it all. I hope to catch up soon. I will make an effort to be better at is all in the near future. Until then, let these photos speak for themself and my week. </div>
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Until next time.... xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx</div>
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<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-44022791871141644572013-03-14T21:23:00.000-07:002013-03-14T21:23:36.213-07:00Nature's Gym<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNd_E-yxVSVU_Bnd7EfAZh6D0sz602Dcb-YlItZtDmgkkbk4oMpF1yCFFjdgDCucmalbsKy9dh4rBwhfMLlNPxlLI2odk4n2suP3KUcTM1QcYb_TUV7VsQ8KfU8SJ2y5b1EMjYll6UdxHG/s1600/mossy-trail-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNd_E-yxVSVU_Bnd7EfAZh6D0sz602Dcb-YlItZtDmgkkbk4oMpF1yCFFjdgDCucmalbsKy9dh4rBwhfMLlNPxlLI2odk4n2suP3KUcTM1QcYb_TUV7VsQ8KfU8SJ2y5b1EMjYll6UdxHG/s1600/mossy-trail-1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Right across the road from where I live there are a lot of nature trails. I go here instead of paying for a gym membership with a monthly fee. I see people drive all the way across town, to walk on a treadmill when this beautiful spot of hundreds of acres of forest is only about a mile from the gym. A few miles down the road from here there is even a bigger forest... but this one is right here. </div>
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The paths go up and down hills and twist and turn. There are a lot of forest paths to choose from. I get in the zone and can go for hours. I like to do two loops on my favorite trails which is about 6 miles. </div>
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It is pretty dense until you reach the far corner on the other side, of which there is a beautiful view of the mountains once you reach a clearing. Today they were hiding behind the clouds a bit but you can still see them. </div>
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Once you turn that corner you are well on the way back home again. I can go here rain or shine. Even when it is pouring rain, I do not get very wet at all because the canvas of the trees helps to keep the big drops of water from falling on me. </div>
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Today was such a wonderful time out in the forest. I try to go as often as possible. I did start to slack a little with going here but I am aiming at going at least 5 miles a day once again out here. It is so much fun to be out in the fresh air and seeing snippets of woodland creatures here and there. If you go early in the morning that is the best time to see them, as they are all out gathering their daily meals after a long rest all evening. </div>
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I just wanted to share a little snippet of my daily life and where I go...</div>
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Until next time... xxxxxxxxxxxx</div>
<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-41783232888049920962013-03-13T14:48:00.000-07:002013-03-13T14:48:02.032-07:00Circles, it is all about the circles.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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For the last several days I have been making these circles in the evenings. When I was putting away all that new yarn I purchased, I found a small bag of scraps and added to my yarn basket. This meant that I should probably do something with them and add them to the other small amount of scraps I had left in the basket. </div>
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Originally I had planned on making a groovyghan but I have put that on hold for now. I want to just be done with having scraps sitting around and I want to make an actual planned project, with planned colors for once. I wanted to be done with all these bits so I can start with a clean break. </div>
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I am unsure what I will do to these circles just yet. I have used them when I made the hexagon from Attic 24, and the Flowers in the snow blanket earlier this year... I might just turn them into some sort of granny square and assemble them into yet another blanket or maybe if there are enough of them, some pillows as well. Then, I will not have scraps nagging at me and I will be able to start fresh. When I looked at the basket of scraps, I just started making these with no real plan... </div>
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Spring has gone back into hiding around here again so I am once again passing the cold and wet evenings away with a crochet hook and some hot tea.</div>
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I am curious to see what I come up with. Happy crafting to you dear reader. Please share in the comments what you are working on! I love to see what others are doing. Don't be shy, go ahead, post a link :) </div>
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Until next time... xxxxx</div>
<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-90138365044259041462013-03-09T12:00:00.000-08:002013-03-09T12:00:19.887-08:00Yarn Ahoy Matey! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4j5FQFa0E5fTE7DfHM0PK_dk7vgQocglOvF4zFuFU41OrSWB8GoA4orxzNtPYuKZq4hVv0MH7uC_iC9nayg6Uq-_lteW0dk-m5FG0o4XwvVp8w8i338aDDdTwHYH8dc1j0hxaZez8EaP/s1600/yarn-before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4j5FQFa0E5fTE7DfHM0PK_dk7vgQocglOvF4zFuFU41OrSWB8GoA4orxzNtPYuKZq4hVv0MH7uC_iC9nayg6Uq-_lteW0dk-m5FG0o4XwvVp8w8i338aDDdTwHYH8dc1j0hxaZez8EaP/s1600/yarn-before.jpg" /></a></div>
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About a week or two ago, this was all the worsted weight yarn I had left in the world. What a sad state of affairs this was. I worked hard to work down my stash and with this much left, there was not much left that I could make for a completed project. Well now I have the jackpot! I will not need to buy yarn again for a long time. </div>
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About two weeks ago I started to buy yarn on sale at various places. I kept going back to some of the discount stores and picking up colors that I liked here and there. </div>
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It all was taking shape nicely don't you think? But no... I could not get all the colors I wanted so I put in a big order for yarn on the internet. </div>
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That arrived yesterday... 9 glorious pounds of yarn to complete my color selection with! Oh, the ideas started to swim around in my head and I could not wait to compile this yarn with the other yarn so see the rainbow I had. </div>
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I heard lots of cars and noise out front early this morning... I thought "What is going on out there"? and I looked and it was a big garage sale at one of the neighbors houses. The entire house is a big garage sale as they are retiring and moving to Vegas. I saw someone come up the stairs with a big box claiming "I have 40 skeins of yarn here". and I RUSHED down the stairs only to find a room full of boxes of yarn. I came home with all of this for only $27! The acrylic yarn was only 50 cents a skein and the lambs wool was only $1 per skein!! SCORE! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsjcGU5hHh8g4BKxGEnjPG3XcwIeoDveR3-gPKV_OjSrHBxZYXEquOYu_gCkGbh12JTyqVwFWEJuGHUfWZKKhJ2sWAtsE71bCdIEjM3PEj3Ygn4INDui5oOsfDe0pim96oinv4myoyoqiK/s1600/yarn-all-of-it.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsjcGU5hHh8g4BKxGEnjPG3XcwIeoDveR3-gPKV_OjSrHBxZYXEquOYu_gCkGbh12JTyqVwFWEJuGHUfWZKKhJ2sWAtsE71bCdIEjM3PEj3Ygn4INDui5oOsfDe0pim96oinv4myoyoqiK/s1600/yarn-all-of-it.jpg" /></a></div>
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I then gathered all of my new yarn together and put out on the back deck. I began to sort by reds, pinks, oranges, yellows, blues, greens, purples and on and on... It is a rainbow of yarn sitting together. The truth of the matter is... I don't even know how many skeins I have now. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKFtRLcaBaojnDfBbe97djBb0eYHti7WwiHjl_mjXub9wfhab3bqzn7MLpE65HErDX_t9QEBN6FEBFLdx_d0DOCmr0OwaJ73IerhJ6iYFIFwMHw98xx57ajBjDUMhctGQYdgs2gbPv6_Yb/s1600/montage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKFtRLcaBaojnDfBbe97djBb0eYHti7WwiHjl_mjXub9wfhab3bqzn7MLpE65HErDX_t9QEBN6FEBFLdx_d0DOCmr0OwaJ73IerhJ6iYFIFwMHw98xx57ajBjDUMhctGQYdgs2gbPv6_Yb/s1600/montage.jpg" /></a></div>
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There are so many colors to make so many wonderful things with as these are all brand new skeins of yarn, never touched. I have so many ideas dancing around in my head looking at this. </div>
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And last but not least, the sun came out and it is beautiful and warm and breezy. I was able to put our washing out this morning, meaning tonight is going to be a great night to climb into bed with fresh & crisp line dried sheets. I will be super happy smelling them and dreaming of all the things I can make with all that yarn.</div>
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I do not need to purchase any more yarn for a long time again, that is... until my basket ends up with the last of the yarn with not enough to make much of anything again... I suspect that will be a year or two from now :) </div>
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I am a very happy girl! xxxxxxxx</div>
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<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-1405062607589248552013-03-05T19:21:00.001-08:002013-03-05T19:21:30.409-08:00Krochet Krystal Daisy Square, and planning my next projectToday I finally got busy on my Krochet Krystal charity square. I downloaded the pattern a few months back as I want to make a groovyghan. I know that for sure, this is one of the squares I want to use. It is such a great cause too! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRbaOofRdLFunhsLiOJqnSMl82_jnF_zmJm0MPuoKipQQiGObBKYYH-p4tDLq-kRYkp58fsH3AR1hmPe96x9gRoMlVbEJCSSQpj6mAhx4WZHV24yL7ZE2OcCRsXIJdJ1bG6LF7J1pQwd4M/s1600/daisy-finished.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRbaOofRdLFunhsLiOJqnSMl82_jnF_zmJm0MPuoKipQQiGObBKYYH-p4tDLq-kRYkp58fsH3AR1hmPe96x9gRoMlVbEJCSSQpj6mAhx4WZHV24yL7ZE2OcCRsXIJdJ1bG6LF7J1pQwd4M/s1600/daisy-finished.jpg" /></a></div>
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Here is my first practice square. I am going to use up all the little balls of yarn that I can and practice on a few more. Then, I will be sending them off to the pattern designer. The pattern is free, but she only asks that you make her one square as payment with either black or white as the background color. <a href="http://krochetkrystal.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">You can go here and see how to download this free pattern. </a> </div>
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It is a little bit fiddly to work up as you are using two yarns at once and going in the round.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieo8OWeID0nFTxPsGl0vv4RhTo-CrCi8qgdyA2HJWb_30TDpdEXlc2AgpIpAG0rO3MMt6IAiM5GLPGXMTP5iORjmzTKmmdSfDbn1_GlCinYcxPzwih5Ny_pCR4vIn08Ith_2cQ0efKk1Xe/s1600/daisy-progress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieo8OWeID0nFTxPsGl0vv4RhTo-CrCi8qgdyA2HJWb_30TDpdEXlc2AgpIpAG0rO3MMt6IAiM5GLPGXMTP5iORjmzTKmmdSfDbn1_GlCinYcxPzwih5Ny_pCR4vIn08Ith_2cQ0efKk1Xe/s1600/daisy-progress.jpg" /></a></div>
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But do not fear! When you join her yahoo group, she will send you links to the video content if you get stuck on any of the parts. I do think that it needs a little practice. This is my first square that I uploaded here of this pattern and I think I could do better. Once I make a few more, and use up some of my little scraps on it, I should have it down well enough to make some for a blanket. </div>
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Once I get these perfected, I will be making a groovyghan, and <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/groovyghan" target="_blank">you can see them here. </a> I am still undecided on exactly how I will make my groovyghan. I have more yarn arriving on Friday in addition to the big shopping spree I went on last week, as I was running out of yarn. </div>
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It is a fun little square to make. I hope you enjoy making them if you download the pattern. I think it is such a great thing, because what she is doing from designing this pattern. A lot of people that need blankets get some beautiful ones, from squares sent from all over the world. They are colorful and very pretty as is. </div>
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Until next time... xxxx</div>
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<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-29618321540328425802013-03-04T17:26:00.001-08:002013-03-04T19:23:12.873-08:00Trinity Ripple Pattern/Tutorial thingie. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigDiZ6-VGiiFqRDGMDHCq0Rh5_RNptmUBRTrAkDOOPGGPNPu8XxsIRaaBMp831wIDuhTBh7SfF4O4KQwYj1hdVyLHi7V7Pl5Nw8UM_kPyMxhPfRwC3P5_bd-juNI7CpbeDsJisb1cWNi5P/s1600/ripple-long-view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigDiZ6-VGiiFqRDGMDHCq0Rh5_RNptmUBRTrAkDOOPGGPNPu8XxsIRaaBMp831wIDuhTBh7SfF4O4KQwYj1hdVyLHi7V7Pl5Nw8UM_kPyMxhPfRwC3P5_bd-juNI7CpbeDsJisb1cWNi5P/s1600/ripple-long-view.jpg" /></a></div>
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Hello, I thought I would break up my post from when I did <a href="http://charitycrochets.blogspot.com/2013/03/the-big-reveal-happy-scrappy-trinity.html" target="_blank">the big reveal</a> on this blanket as it would have made for a very long post otherwise. Here is a tutorial on how I made the blanket.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgppSLpIzYgKRp81gcPIZKbuLZ_sfToBWn4EgpIBdqHCulq1IWt4cfzSUznlCUjWvAhDJqIYUfwUkro2HRofjwBk8Sodc6nplf30JVMVIbR4F4v-O7f9S5UGxFctJP6s5qiJWpPVpn6MYyL/s1600/blanket-pattern.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgppSLpIzYgKRp81gcPIZKbuLZ_sfToBWn4EgpIBdqHCulq1IWt4cfzSUznlCUjWvAhDJqIYUfwUkro2HRofjwBk8Sodc6nplf30JVMVIbR4F4v-O7f9S5UGxFctJP6s5qiJWpPVpn6MYyL/s1600/blanket-pattern.jpg" /></a></div>
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Each ripple is multiples of 14 stitches and then + 3 at the end to start the next row. I also included here how to make a ripple blanket with deeper ripples or softer waves. All you have to remember is to start and end every row with a 3 chain stitch which counts as your first double crochet on every row through the blanket. Instead of counting for the foundation chain, I just crochet a long chain about one and a half times the width I want, and keep making the first row until it is as wide as I want. Then I cut off the extra leaving about a 6 inch tail, and carefully unravel that tail until I get to the foundation stitch and carefully weave it in to secure it. I can't count how many times I have had to rip out projects because I got the foundation chain wrong with counting. It never fails, that the phone should ring or someone talks to you, and your get distracted... I found this is the no stress easy way. If you want to count you still can, it is up to you. Just count in multiples of 14 (if you are making the blanket like I did) and then add 3 more stitches which counts as your first double crochet and start the next stitch the 3rd foundation chain in from the end. </div>
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Say for instance you want to make the ripple deeper and make 6 double crochets instead of 3 between increases and decreases. Start with the number 8 to allow for increases and decreases and add to that 8. You will need to times the number you choose times 2. </div>
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So let's do the math here... 2 x 6 = 12 + 8 = 20 so that would mean multiples of 20 + 3 for the first double crochet on the next row. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcyI7SyEguk55qoxNEmK2-f4FDSA0E2NVU4ZFRapr_30Clelf0AsmQnXRjBbeYxph_s8ktzgBl5bhJA4Ps3_UWf2UX9528Lgu9ShjAS96GIKY74Ivg-C1NwM7DIf_YsmFlnJEEHuKbry-c/s1600/deeper-ripple-pattern-expla.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcyI7SyEguk55qoxNEmK2-f4FDSA0E2NVU4ZFRapr_30Clelf0AsmQnXRjBbeYxph_s8ktzgBl5bhJA4Ps3_UWf2UX9528Lgu9ShjAS96GIKY74Ivg-C1NwM7DIf_YsmFlnJEEHuKbry-c/s1600/deeper-ripple-pattern-expla.jpg" /></a></div>
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If you would like to see it with a photo this might help you more.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4HQyqmaHTao19wQm8j_8b51auYnXsE1NZt0Dr8ah8-jNX5LEsZJv-mfAda-NXTZXhSPk9QUKLo3nhhSLmiWSRJYJo6mLM7arIFv4Q6l7v8fLuiiW6-wyfRx3l7NtJWL_Peroes0PzlnE9/s1600/ripple-length-explanation-p.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4HQyqmaHTao19wQm8j_8b51auYnXsE1NZt0Dr8ah8-jNX5LEsZJv-mfAda-NXTZXhSPk9QUKLo3nhhSLmiWSRJYJo6mLM7arIFv4Q6l7v8fLuiiW6-wyfRx3l7NtJWL_Peroes0PzlnE9/s1600/ripple-length-explanation-p.jpg" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV8vBxUqjSlCfl6Wb03yW__-ujQV0bpkWlH0jvZk7WZV1Yk0kd-ZQ2Ol6-0BvoB76vrzV_sF4IjPoJgKlYKMDkAmAxj5gk19moA_CklvHsXoLTw8_yqobL0IOZ7r5UCAo_YSOTXdpZJ26u/s1600/increase-decrease-explained.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV8vBxUqjSlCfl6Wb03yW__-ujQV0bpkWlH0jvZk7WZV1Yk0kd-ZQ2Ol6-0BvoB76vrzV_sF4IjPoJgKlYKMDkAmAxj5gk19moA_CklvHsXoLTw8_yqobL0IOZ7r5UCAo_YSOTXdpZJ26u/s1600/increase-decrease-explained.jpg" /></a><br />
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You can alter a ripple pattern very easily to make it do anything you want. There is only one rule and that is that you have to decrease and increase the same amount, and the number of stitches you put in between those increases and decreases is up to you. Just make sure they are the same too. </div>
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I made the end of the blanket straight so that I could put a border on it that was ruffled and fun. This is how I did that. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDah8Krd0pdJyktWAnCvDhJQFCbuCLpFSxDaaf6aPeYoqJD3rw8tSPMymyZZ3nYVyf1FH2X_Fk1hBa0RZbsISInrfLAKhe4tcWXV7t90iYgXLbO_vXqTSA-9_eO8G7kLCHlsq_kLQMzWAD/s1600/squaring-up-the-ripple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDah8Krd0pdJyktWAnCvDhJQFCbuCLpFSxDaaf6aPeYoqJD3rw8tSPMymyZZ3nYVyf1FH2X_Fk1hBa0RZbsISInrfLAKhe4tcWXV7t90iYgXLbO_vXqTSA-9_eO8G7kLCHlsq_kLQMzWAD/s1600/squaring-up-the-ripple.jpg" /></a></div>
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Please note: This above image only works for the increases and decreases I made on the blanket and drawn in the pattern earlier in this post. If you add or decrease stitches in the center, you will need to adjust the stitches and it may not work for really dramatic ripples. But for the trinity (3 decrease stitches, 3 double crochet, and 3 increase stitches) you will want to do what I have graphed in this picture.</div>
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And now on to the happy ruffle edging. My grandmother used to put this border on all her towels back in the 1920s. It is so festive and fun isn't it? </div>
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It is basically making a cluster of 7 double crochets in one space, and skipping over 2 double clusters of double stitches (4 double crochet stitches total) and securing it with a slip stitch, then skipping 2 more double stitch cluster stitches (4 double crochet stitches total), and making another 7 double crochets again, and doing this all the way around. This will make a secure scallop but it does not ruffle. Let's move on to the next part to see how to make it ruffle shall we?</div>
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Just be sure to start the picots on the edges (which makes it ruffle) in each space. slip stitch, chain 3, and in the next space do it again and again until you go all the way around the blanket. </div>
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I hope you enjoy this free pattern and play with it some. I hope it inspires you to make whatever kind of ripple blanket you want, whether it is with deep dramatic wavy ripples, or tiny little subtle ripples. </div>
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Until next time.... xxxxxxxxxxxx</div>
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<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-3007474230051277322013-03-04T16:25:00.001-08:002013-03-04T17:29:58.541-08:00The big reveal! Happy Scrappy Trinity Ripple Blanket<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtm18f0xElVBAzMCRYsxMNEMke1h1S-bV9KMoKBLT9kHU2Qi__Jlh0hCG77ITxq4TsgTOhz9SSHdM-DBp3dK8K1DBmfVbRkGIYAnQ3z7_3d2tCK9SpGsIyIpjEmmcx5X_L3YgitAk8CddG/s1600/blanket-railing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtm18f0xElVBAzMCRYsxMNEMke1h1S-bV9KMoKBLT9kHU2Qi__Jlh0hCG77ITxq4TsgTOhz9SSHdM-DBp3dK8K1DBmfVbRkGIYAnQ3z7_3d2tCK9SpGsIyIpjEmmcx5X_L3YgitAk8CddG/s1600/blanket-railing.jpg" /></a></div>
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I love my new ripple blanket, yes I do! I ended up making it way bigger than I intended. One of these days I swear I will learn to make a lap throw sized blanket for here at home. It measures 80 x 77 inches with the border on it. </div>
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It is such a happy blanket with all the waves of color dancing around. I used up a lot of little scraps in various colors. There are a lot of shades of color that just do not show in these photos. I grouped together the yellows and blues and so on and so forth and started darker to lighter but the color variation is slight enough to give it texture in person but does not shine in the photos. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOU3b4TjRZ9C3iL7cpqPpTqZBWrSBzDI7fjXMtGoaOSLkS99-46F9JkfTTgox1FPzdxkFeqaulg7LQdi8hDsAqhT8-x3wsqe-mibfuLoJdVtmmBqy7YUtOLJQkLO0isj0klyuR7xA0PUrn/s1600/side-view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOU3b4TjRZ9C3iL7cpqPpTqZBWrSBzDI7fjXMtGoaOSLkS99-46F9JkfTTgox1FPzdxkFeqaulg7LQdi8hDsAqhT8-x3wsqe-mibfuLoJdVtmmBqy7YUtOLJQkLO0isj0klyuR7xA0PUrn/s1600/side-view.jpg" /></a></div>
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The blanket is near a perfect square with it only being 3 inches longer than it is wider. This means that depending on how I feel, I can put it either direction on the bed. I can have the stripes going across, or I can have them going down. Switching it back and forth helps keep the boredom away. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNkyYhhOn3MSa4jgyAoYVrG7qjsB_qw6DTXdvIiwmPy13WQP1Bna1veeymUe92RJ23EC-VNoXexeryr-3BgpjVtGzdaaSYlXbrqtLQfhF6DA8_zT7G8zqqTeIHm6GCTl7xXgWYbfSQ4k40/s1600/blanket-texture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNkyYhhOn3MSa4jgyAoYVrG7qjsB_qw6DTXdvIiwmPy13WQP1Bna1veeymUe92RJ23EC-VNoXexeryr-3BgpjVtGzdaaSYlXbrqtLQfhF6DA8_zT7G8zqqTeIHm6GCTl7xXgWYbfSQ4k40/s1600/blanket-texture.jpg" /></a></div>
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Here is a close up so you can see the texture of the blanket. I love that the rows have all this texture to it. It just makes the blanket all that much more!</div>
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I put a happy border on it with ripples all around. This blanket just needed that as a plain square border just would not do. This way the outside sort of mimics the inside of it all. </div>
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It was a really fun project which just about cleared out a good share of my yarn scraps. I have a few more dark colors to use up, but things are getting lighter and brighter in my stash... </div>
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I thought I would break up this post so it would not be so long. I am calling it my "Trinity Ripple" blanket because the stitches were all done with the magic number 3. If you would like to know how to make this pattern, I made graphs for you to do just that. It includes the ripple pattern, how to square off the wavy edge and the border pattern.</div>
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<a href="http://charitycrochets.blogspot.com/2013/03/trinity-ripple-patterntutorial-thingie.html"><b>The free pattern for all that is here. </b></a></div>
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I hope you enjoy the blanket as much as I do. xxxx</div>
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<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-19602168407836952722013-03-03T22:37:00.000-08:002013-03-03T22:37:03.732-08:00Relaxing Sunday... and Ripple Sneak PeekToday was a very relaxing Sunday. I got up this morning and put up a quick batch of rootbeer. <a href="http://charitycrochets.blogspot.com/2013/03/old-fashioned-rootbeer-soda-tutorial.html">You can see the post here. </a> I made a quick tutorial for anyone interested in how to make it. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-phHv-b0fSQldwrbsTt8aSzuHp8nJtKsuvk3OG8DBn8dWdWZ19AwQqDliBojRAuQdcp9QITWLTnwZZZRz4a3iM5akAlAeyDGdqHSua9aGTY232fzU_Aec75VUL-6gTPX3E7PKiukN56KA/s1600/movie-theater-view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-phHv-b0fSQldwrbsTt8aSzuHp8nJtKsuvk3OG8DBn8dWdWZ19AwQqDliBojRAuQdcp9QITWLTnwZZZRz4a3iM5akAlAeyDGdqHSua9aGTY232fzU_Aec75VUL-6gTPX3E7PKiukN56KA/s1600/movie-theater-view.jpg" /></a></div>
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I ended up going to the movies with a friend this afternoon. It was a cute movie named "Jack The Giant Slayer". When exiting the movie theater this was the view. I love the view from this theater in town. On a clear day there are clear blue skies and mountains capped with snow all around. It is a stunning vision to be seen. Even though it was overcast today, the view is still beautiful don't you think?</div>
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After dinner tonight I was able to get a bit of hooking time in. I am only showing you a limited sneak peek at my ripple blanket. I think you are going to like it. For now you get this limited view that was shot with a flash on the camera as it is dark now. The flash drowns out all the texture... Which is kind of fun because you are going to love it when I get a chance to take appropriate photos.</div>
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I can't wait to write up the pattern and take lots and lots of photos in a few days. I am excited to show it off. Until then, this is all you get (Yes, I am such a tease)</div>
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OK, off to watch "Vikings" on the history channel. I have not viewed this series before but already I am loving it. Ta!</div>
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<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-28813599923271924392013-03-03T19:55:00.000-08:002013-03-03T20:23:15.845-08:00Old Fashioned Rootbeer Soda Tutorial. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Have you ever wanted to know how to make your very own homemade rootbeer the old fashioned way? Or how about cream soda or any other flavor? The way they did way back then before forced carbonation and made simply without all the added chemicals, and preservatives and high fructose corn syrup, etc. </div>
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Recipe: <b>20 cups of water</b></div>
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<b>2 1/2 cups of sugar</b><br />
<b>2 Tablespoons of Rootbeer extract</b> (available at your local brew shop)</div>
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<b>1 Tablespoon of Vanilla extract</b></div>
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<b>1/8 teaspoon champagne yeast</b> (available at your local brew shop, <i><u>and do not whatever you do, <b>DO NOT use bread yeast</b> like some recipes ask for. It will make it taste terrible and like, well.... bread and yeasty.</u></i> Champagne yeast does not alter the flavor. A small $1 packet will last for many batches. I keep it stored in the freezer in a ziplock bag once it is opened, and keep using it till it is gone)</div>
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Begin by putting the sugar into a big pot along with the water. Put on the stove and bring to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, I put a lid on it to help keep the water from evaporating out. Once it is boiling, set the timer on your stove for 10 minutes and let it roll. </div>
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While it is going, scrub out the bottles you want to use. If you are a beginner at this, I highly suggest using plastic liter bottles with a screw on lid instead of the beer bottles I am using. The reason for this is because with the plastic bottles once they are carbonated you will be able to tell by squeezing the bottle and if it is firm, it is probably ready... but I am getting ahead of myself here. You will need to sanitize your bottles. You can soak your bottles in a sink full of water along with a couple tablespoons of bleach for about 1/2 hour, and rinse several times with hot hot water... The other option is to use something called "Star San" as bleach can leave behind a nasty flavor and you can re-introduce bacteria with your rinse water. I mix 1/2 teaspoon of star san in 1 quart of water (A batch of star san will last several weeks so you can keep re-using it for more batches.) . I put some of it in a spray bottle and the rest into my nifty bottle washer. You place the bottle on it, and pump it down a few times and it sprays the sanitizing solution into the bottle and drains back into the bowl below. Otherwise you will need to pour some in, shake it around, and pour back out into a container to re-use. Once I have sanitized all my bottles I place them into a bucket to drain until I need them to fill later. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo8251Db9mN4oPcNfMGH2TqQCk3eyXSEaj2uK6SE6JUM19G_xfuK4P5_MI6CQFeWqJV9J8FLSzmgpOJ46Hf3j-VOxjeR-fDp_pXqL0wEEJGlE6gIq-sT8SQIEq8rNMWxD1WQzGE4PML2Jf/s1600/rootbeer-tutorial-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo8251Db9mN4oPcNfMGH2TqQCk3eyXSEaj2uK6SE6JUM19G_xfuK4P5_MI6CQFeWqJV9J8FLSzmgpOJ46Hf3j-VOxjeR-fDp_pXqL0wEEJGlE6gIq-sT8SQIEq8rNMWxD1WQzGE4PML2Jf/s1600/rootbeer-tutorial-2.jpg" /></a></div>
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Once your water has boiled for 10 minutes, place it in a sink full of cold water to help it cool faster. Fill the sink first so no un-sterile water contaminates the pot by splashing in while filling the sink. This will help it cool faster (yay! thermodynamics). Take a sanitized measuring cup (I usually spray everything with the sanitizing solution a few minutes before hand and keep on a clean and sanitized plate) and dip out about 1/2 cup of the sugar water. Once it reaches about 80 degrees (check with a sanitized thermometer) add 1/8 teaspoon of the champagne yeast and wait a few minutes and give it a good stir with a sanitized spoon. Once the pot of sugar water cools to 80 degrees pitch the yeast solution into it and add 2 Tablespoons of rootbeer extract ( <a href="http://www.gnomesoda.com/" target="_blank">I like gnome brand</a>!) and 1 Tablespoon of vanilla extract. Give this a stir with a long sanitized spoon being careful not to touch the rootbeer with your hands. </div>
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Usually I would use a brewers bucket with a spout and racking cane and hose, but for this tutorial I used equipment that the average person would have in their kitchen which is a pitcher and a funnel. Make sure they are sanitized and fill the bottles using the funnel and pitcher. You will need to re-fill the pitcher several times. I take the pot out of the sink and dry off with a towel on the outside before filling the pitcher to ensure no bacteria filled water droplets end up in your rootbeer contaminating it. Fill your bottles and leave about an inch head space. I cap with a capper, and bottle caps for beer bottles that have been soaked in the sanitizing solution first, and after I give the capped bottles a good rinse and dry off with a towel, I label them. I just use simple masking tape and a sharpie marker. I usually end up with 12 - 13 bottles of soda, depending on how much I spill when filling the bottles. </div>
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I realize most people will not have a fancy beer bottle capper and until you have been doing this for a while, I highly suggest just using some recycled plastic liter bottles with screw on caps. Let them sit out at room temp for a few days. In my house it is usually about 3-4 days. The reason why I suggest for the beginner to use plastic bottles is that once the yeast does it's job, you will be able to squeeze the bottle with your hand to tell if it is firm. If it is firm and carbonated, then you can put it in the fridge to crash the yeast. At my house since I use beer bottles, I wait 3 days and open one bottle and drink it to see if it is carbonated enough. Sometimes I need to let it go another day or so. </div>
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Now the important part! <b>DO NOT store these at room temp once they reach carbonation.</b> <b>The yeast will continue to eat the sugars and build more carbon dioxide (the fizzy stuff) and will eventually build so much pressure they will become bottle bombs and explode and make a huge mess in your kitchen (or where you store them!). </b></div>
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Once the soda is at a good carbonation level you will need to crash the yeast. This is where your ice box is key. Put the whole batch into your fridge and let sit for a day or two. The yeast will get too cold to work anymore and sink to the bottom of the bottle and go to sleep and stop building CO2 and pressure. When you serve your soda, just pour into a glass leaving behind about 1/2 inch of soda where all the yeast is contained.</div>
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<u>Congratulations! You just made some homemade rootbeer.</u> If you want to make cream soda, just use vanilla extract from your spice cupboard (2-3 Tablespoons depending on taste, just play with it). You can go to your local brew shop and they have a <a href="http://www.midwestsupplies.com/other-products/soda-extracts.html" target="_blank">plethora of old fashioned flavors you can use too.</a> </div>
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Now wasn't that simple? You will never again need to buy soda again and you can have it natural style without all the additives and nasty chemicals like in commercial soda. A bottle of flavoring lasts for several batches. 2 Tablespoons is 1 ounce. Depending on the size of the bottle extract you buy, you can make quite a few batches. If you are really adventurous you can even boil down things like blackberries and filter out the seeds and go completely natural with your soda flavors. Just have fun and experiment with your own creativity. You can boil some grated ginger root along with some lemon rinds and juice for ginger lemon too. If you purchase flavoring for baking, you can even use those flavoring extracts. The sky is the limit! </div>
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Now go forth and have some soda making fun! You don't need one of those kits to make soda that uses chemical filled syrups and CO2 chargers. All you need is some flavoring, either homemade (do a google search for homemade ginger ale for instance) or you can purchase old fashioned flavor extracts from a brew supply place, or go to amazon.com and buy some. </div>
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Just have fun! And I hope you enjoy your rootbeer! </div>
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<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-46063186435330218582013-02-28T18:00:00.002-08:002013-02-28T18:02:31.359-08:00Ripple blanket, it is a marathon, not a foot race. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt-P_FR7U8DA695bHaIVbzE3QfirG0Tf-KJONHyeEWfocCtpU5qw4_bFohSOfgZ_JHjL0tCTdlFuEMPDD1jHGO6y05JoUh9K_QptFtVw9-oFm8OmCMt3N7helfHw92bmqZ-D9wrHGsxbsG/s1600/half-way-ripple-blanket-bor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt-P_FR7U8DA695bHaIVbzE3QfirG0Tf-KJONHyeEWfocCtpU5qw4_bFohSOfgZ_JHjL0tCTdlFuEMPDD1jHGO6y05JoUh9K_QptFtVw9-oFm8OmCMt3N7helfHw92bmqZ-D9wrHGsxbsG/s1600/half-way-ripple-blanket-bor.jpg" /></a></div>
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I am happily on my way with the border of my ripple blanket. I am can hardly wait to show it off to you dear reader. I have a few more rounds to bring it together. It will be a while before I do my "Big Reveal" moment because I really want to write out a pattern and diagram so anyone that wants to make one can, including how I squared it off and the border. This is a very scrappy blanket and is using up the end of my yarn stash. I have almost depleted my yarn for blanket making. The edges of this border will be far more different than what is pictured. The pattern is about to change soon, and have loads of waves and fun... Stay tuned! All I can say about it is... It is copied from the towel edging that came from my grandmother. If this is any clue to tell you about it, my mother is 87 years old, and the design is from the 1920s with my own personal twist and changes. When her mother was alive she crocheted a border on every single towel, bed sheet, pillowcase, etc. that she could. She used a fine needle and fine thread. There was no textile that was safe from a crocheted lace border. What I am about to make, is copied from one of her towels. When grandma passed away her things (many of them) went into storage. When my great auntie passed, we got all of them. To this day, there are a lot of lace and fine crocheted things floating around our home. Oh to have all the borders on all bed sheets, towels and washcloths covered in lace now! I admire her for doing so. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvhZW2OFTwIGiD3yJiR1Dj6m3hinWixF_XFQwyJLZ0O6YG1oEMLEhz2-1nMS0AI1JL4va973fravgjNJxV7f-s5kKSrIxUvDJ8FU8vvKPyxkpFXGfuAnCR7UqyuC2o-DO8WxZgLm1sVDqU/s1600/Yarn-basket-sad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvhZW2OFTwIGiD3yJiR1Dj6m3hinWixF_XFQwyJLZ0O6YG1oEMLEhz2-1nMS0AI1JL4va973fravgjNJxV7f-s5kKSrIxUvDJ8FU8vvKPyxkpFXGfuAnCR7UqyuC2o-DO8WxZgLm1sVDqU/s1600/Yarn-basket-sad.jpg" /></a></div>
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As you can see, the plastic laundry basket is getting pretty empty. It is nearly at the bottom and this means I am almost out of yarn. This was the quest with making my last few projects. I wanted to use up my yarn. I had some yarn I purchased and some that I inherited and over the last several projects I did my best to use them up. Some of the colors were dark, and some were light. I wanted to use them however so I could start fresh, with a new stash... As much as I look at yarn like I look at a box of crayons in the way that a child does, my box of crayons was not always what I would choose.... But I progressed, and pushed through to add them and use them and make them work, for I feel that even those odd colors can add a lot of dimension to a project. But, loving color as I do, even the colors I would not purchase have a place in little spots to add highlights and depth like an artist does with paint. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisGervBvsACFaAM17vKy2W57xSfCE_J9-XIyzofXg6K7HnaOSprYQ3-PKQLdpiYazHeetW775s8uIgucwl67bD5Gr3GYvmoKoJZZZrbezULtYR3yIv4r2oEjsCsxN_EX5mljzp7LfmS5Na/s1600/New-Yarn-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisGervBvsACFaAM17vKy2W57xSfCE_J9-XIyzofXg6K7HnaOSprYQ3-PKQLdpiYazHeetW775s8uIgucwl67bD5Gr3GYvmoKoJZZZrbezULtYR3yIv4r2oEjsCsxN_EX5mljzp7LfmS5Na/s1600/New-Yarn-2.jpg" /></a></div>
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Over the last week or two, I started adding to my yarn "hoard". I went to my local "Mega Low Mart" (if you don't know to what I refer I apologize... but that store is within walking distance to me and one of the few places to purchase acrylic yarn. I get a 2 mile walk in which is good) and bought a few skeins here and there. I went to my local Joanne's fabric store as well, and bought more yarn. It is a mixture of Red Heart Super Saver, Vanna's Choice and Caron Pound of Love, and Pound of Baby Yarn. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglKr2ZRg84Nn63mErJhNbPqOfNCaoxMwt2t5Cv7ezz_7QAImxx1O-nVdf00GfFPFH7ahil_TYg9Hk2UgP4atqdYAv8l_3qGgwhknNFVxfdFbsWEqD3i2L1EDCb0AvAzSEKSNEwXnpanojz/s1600/New-Yarn-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglKr2ZRg84Nn63mErJhNbPqOfNCaoxMwt2t5Cv7ezz_7QAImxx1O-nVdf00GfFPFH7ahil_TYg9Hk2UgP4atqdYAv8l_3qGgwhknNFVxfdFbsWEqD3i2L1EDCb0AvAzSEKSNEwXnpanojz/s1600/New-Yarn-1.jpg" /></a></div>
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I have a few more colors to go! I need some more salmon type colors and lipstick colors and yellow colors to complete the collection. Soon I will have a "crayon box" to choose from that I actually like and love. This excites me to no end... Imagine!!! A box full of "crayons" to color my world with and most all of them are colors I purchased because I like them. It to me is like a brand new box of crayons, before the paper has been peeled. So exciting and so many possible things to make. I do have a few random skeins left from previously not pictured that are still dark and such but I will still use them randomly to add shadows and depth. Heck, all colors do have their place, it is all how you use them.</div>
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It was all in all a successful day however, as I did damage to my pocketbook, I also loaded up on more fiber once again. That is a great day! Colors are dancing around in my head already :) </div>
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Until next time... xxxxxxxxxxxxx</div>
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<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5761823573929267965.post-27227759743845569282013-02-27T13:39:00.001-08:002013-02-27T13:39:22.819-08:00Mid Week and 4 simple things that make me happy. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4CShPolH7H8v0dwl1pX_CSkKA3THXaeTzJL3CbFwd3VHnFPVdu8Hidyod1IsB0K4qdom6LBj0ZiE7fGTCcnnVTi73nTDhkoAMrxOfAAjXOG0I5q-ikmp3FJjFUbucJO_E4NLPSEh_cp35/s1600/coffee-crochet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4CShPolH7H8v0dwl1pX_CSkKA3THXaeTzJL3CbFwd3VHnFPVdu8Hidyod1IsB0K4qdom6LBj0ZiE7fGTCcnnVTi73nTDhkoAMrxOfAAjXOG0I5q-ikmp3FJjFUbucJO_E4NLPSEh_cp35/s1600/coffee-crochet.jpg" /></a></div>
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This time of year I never know if I will be in the house crocheting through a storm or outside enjoying the promise of spring. For the last week, I have made a lot of progress on the scrappy ripple blanket. We had a few days where it was stormy and cold, and raining. This photo I took when the winds were so bad, I was certain we would lose power around here. I made a hot cup of coffee and got out my hook and ripple blanket. It was so relaxing sitting and hooking and listening to the storm and rain outside.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQNxrBqS_-bOCLpcchBA89zOuXllOIvP3jr8D2GU0aRnI2ga7j2LpEEjYbn2hs1ABxk6DUkiUsEsSfdRklnW3MlSufHh1BLmk-_fW_fWBEIy14pfHMCH-pGRT8qYIPMoXOnu_mE8_Mt55V/s1600/half-way-scrappy-ripple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQNxrBqS_-bOCLpcchBA89zOuXllOIvP3jr8D2GU0aRnI2ga7j2LpEEjYbn2hs1ABxk6DUkiUsEsSfdRklnW3MlSufHh1BLmk-_fW_fWBEIy14pfHMCH-pGRT8qYIPMoXOnu_mE8_Mt55V/s1600/half-way-scrappy-ripple.jpg" /></a></div>
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Here is my blanket about 1/2 of the way finished. I have made a lot of progress since I took this photo. It is using up little tiny balls of yarn and if you look real close there are 4 shades of blue, 4 shades of yellow and on and on with several more shades of green, pink, purple, turquoise, and on and on.. My basket of yarn is getting to be pretty empty at this point. I have been looking at yarn on several web sites already to purchase, and replenish the supply. In the little town that I live, most the stores that sell acrylic yarn for blankets are very often more times than not out of many colors of yarn. This means frequent trips to the store until eventually you have enough colors to make something. Either that, or you must go to the 2 yarn stores which have very beautiful yarn that is cost prohibitive to make large projects like this. I love those yarn stores and hope to buy enough to make a wool jacket or something for myself some day. Until then, I am buying budget friendly acrylic yarns for my blankets. </div>
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Soon enough though, the weather cleared and I was able to peg out my first load of laundry this year. You have no idea how much this excites me! This means that soon I will be shutting off the tumble dryer until next fall again. I love going out in the mornings with a load of laundry and listening to the birds sing while I peg out the washing. It is one of those simple moments in the day where I get to slow down and reflect and meditate on all the wonders in the universe. I can't imagine life without a clothesline. One of these days I will invest in some nice steel T posts and make the old fashioned type lines that string across the yard. Call me weird if you want, but I like to watch the clothes blowing in the breeze. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyINqij-139btHIkTuK1BvowbfkQ34mWejsg7in0YBNSclt9tZYUrpf2DCpUCkkshyt7yH9RFlhCwconuubFn6f5OfAcHqVSEn8ZesdNdCsvmt-pJTNZrGhlDny_D8vn-T_HSBt2kKvmuK/s1600/root-beer-bottles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyINqij-139btHIkTuK1BvowbfkQ34mWejsg7in0YBNSclt9tZYUrpf2DCpUCkkshyt7yH9RFlhCwconuubFn6f5OfAcHqVSEn8ZesdNdCsvmt-pJTNZrGhlDny_D8vn-T_HSBt2kKvmuK/s1600/root-beer-bottles.jpg" /></a></div>
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One of the simple pleasures in life is a wonderful and creamy batch of homemade rootbeer. It is simple to make and ever so tasty. I always add vanilla to give it that creamy flavor as well. No preservatives and no high fructose corn syrup. I will need to make another post sometime with some recipes and sterilization techniques on how to make this. It is made the old fashioned way with champagne yeast for carbonation. </div>
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I hope you dear reader, are having a wonderful week so far. I am off to tidy floors and do the mid week cleaning as tomorrow is rubbish collection day. This means that today I clean out the fridge and clean the house and rummage about to make sure the recycling bins and the garbage cans are filled all the way up before first thing in the morning. If I look hard, there is always enough clutter that needs to be cleared someplace in the house. I never seem to have a problem finding enough to put out there, it is just finding the inspiration to de-clutter a closet or whatever. If the TV show hoarders were on every morning, I bet you my house would be spotless at all times. Now that show is encouragement and inspiring to clean! I see an hour of that and go crazy cleaning and tossing things out. </div>
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Until next time xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx</div>
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<br />Charityhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10078589173487767260noreply@blogger.com0