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Thursday, December 22, 2011

Christmas Beanies ~ Knit Pattern

I decided to share with you my Christmas beanies. I looked and looked and looked for a pattern that spoke to me and was something that I really wanted to make over and over and over again. I never found one, so I made up my own pattern.

My original idea was just to have something to share as gifts with my cousins kids because they had invited us to go over for Christmas Eve and I didn't want to walk in empty handed. Well, the idea grew. There will be a total of 10 teenagers (including family and girlfriends), an 8 year old and a new born there...all of them cousins (except the girlfriends, of course). So, I decided to make a beanie for ALL of the kids. I finished the last one yesterday. I loved making every single one of them because they were all a blank canvas for my creativity. Endless possibilities for color combinations and stripes. lol. BUT...I was so very glad when the last one was complete.

This is the biggest group of kids. We have an 18 yo w/a gf, 16 yo w/a gf, a 14 yo and an 8 yo. The 8 yo's hat turned out a little larger because I went by rows instead of measurements on a couple of hats. I figured out what went wrong and corrected myself for the rest of them, but hers is a little longer than the rest.


Used: hat 1: Wool Ease, hat 2: RH Soft & HL Love, hat 3: Wool Ease, hat 4: LB Jiffy & HL Love, hat 5: Wool Ease & HL Love, hat 6: RHSS


This is a brother/sister duo. Blue/gray is his, purple/black is hers. I was struggling with what colors to make for them, so I asked their mom. They were the only ones besides my kids that actually got to choose colors.


Used: hat 1: L&T Impeccable & RHSS, hat 2: RHSS & HL Love


These are for my kids. I am actually going to wrap them up and hand them out with the other kids' hats, even though my daughter has modeled hers a few times. I always have to snatch it back and say "you can't have that now!"


Used: hat 1: L&T Impeccable & RHSS, hat 2: Wool Ease & Caron SS


Last, but not least, we have the last set of brothers. The oldest was born 8 hours after my daughter and the youngest was born 2 days ago. I just couldn't leave the baby out, so I modified the pattern by a few stitches and rows and went to town. I actually love both of these hats. :)


Used: hat 1: RHSS, hat 2: TLC Amore


I am going to share with you the very basic pattern. Soooooper simple. And I'll share my "straight lines" method for my color changes.


Christmas Beanies (very stretchy, great for scraps)

by Elizabeth Mareno 2011


Materials:

About 2 ozs Main color, less for Contrast color, Worsted Weight!! :)

(Yarns Used: LB Wool-Ease, LB Jiffy, RHSS, HL I Love This Yarn, Caron Simply Soft, RH Soft, TLC Amore (discontinued?)& Loops n Threads-Impeccable)

size 8 dpns or circular needles

place marker (optional)

end stoppers (optional)

large eye needle for tucking ends in


ADULT SIZE: fits an average head up to 23".

co 85 stitches. I cast on 30-needle 1, 30-needle 2, 25-needle 3. I also used end stoppers to keep my stitches from sliding off. Join without twisting to make a circle, if you need a place marker, put it at the beginning of the join.


k3, p2 around.
You may stripe whenever you like, the pattern stays the same until you reach 6" in length from the beginning. When I stripe, I will slip the first stitch purlwise when I am beginning my second row of that color, this helps to pull the row "up" and hide the color change. If you are doing single rows, I am still a novice at that, so this method may not work if you are striping single rows.

I, also, do not cut my yarns between row changes, I just carry the yarn up the inside of the hat. Makes for less work in the finishing process. If you do this, remember not to pull too tight when you are bringing your yarn up for a color change or you will cause the hat to "crinkle".


top decrease rows: After you have completed 6", knit 1 row around.

next row: k5, k2tog,(repeat around) k1

next : knit

next : k4, k2tog,(repeat around) k1

next : knit

next : k3, k2tog, (repeat around) k1

next : k2, k2tog, (repeat) k1

next : k1, k2tog, (repeat) k1

next : k2tog

next: k2tog (you should have 7 loops remaining. if not, don't worry, just use what you have and close it up.)

Cut, leaving a long end for closing the top. Weave needle through the remaining loops and pull tight. I usually weave them through one more time for security, then weave your end in to make sure the top doesn't come undone and finish off.

Weave in the remaining and you are done!


NEW BORN/INFANT VERSION:

CO 55, work pattern for 4 inches,

decrease rows: k3, k2tog

next: k2, k2tog

next: k1, k2tog

next: k2tog

next: k2tog

Finish off.


To make larger versions, cast on in multiples of five. I do not have a scientific approach to knitting for babies. I sort of fly by the seat of my pants. If someone has a tried and true method...please...do tell. I haven't had a baby in my house in so long, I have forgotten how small they really are.


Here is my non-scientific method:

for infants, if using WW, cast on 55, knit until 4", then decrease.

for babies, cast on 65, knit until 4-1/2"(3-6mo), 5" (6-9mo) & 5-1/2" (9-12 mo). (Some babies have really big heads and may need more length to have the hat fit properly. Use your judgement.)

toddlers, cast on 75, Stay at 5-1/2" (but you be the judge here!)

kids & older, cast on 85, and depending on how big of a melon they have, knit till 6".


Hope you enjoy!! :)

Sunday, December 04, 2011

Mini-Hat #4 - Decoration/Gift Bag Knit Pattern

KNIT (and tiny bit of crochet for the hanging loop) VERSION by Elizabeth Mareno
Needed:
sz 9 straight needles
G crochet hook
Lg eye needles for sewing seam
Small amounts of WW yarn (Used RHSS Turqua and Lavender)

Stitches Used:
Purl, Knit, Slip Purlwise, (crochet chain)
*wyib- with yarn in back
*sl2p- slip 2 purlwise

RIBBING:
with ribbing color, CO 34
1- k1, p1 across
repeat row 1 for 4 rows or 3/4"

DO NOT CUT
BODY:
run yarn along side of work
1- knit row
2- purl ro2
3- sl first 2 st purlwise, join second color, (k2, wyib sl2p,) repeat across
4- (p2, wyib sl2p) repeat across
5 & 6: repeat rows 1 & 2
7- w/second color (k2, sl2p), repeat across
8- (sl2p, p2) repeat
9-24- Repeat rows 1-8 two more times
should be 4-ish inches after row 24
25- k2, (k3, k2tog) 6 times, k2 (28)
26- k2, (k2, k2tog) 6 times, k2 (22)
27- k2, (k1, k2tog) 6 times, k2 (16)
28- (k2tog) across (8)
Cut yarn, leave a long end for sewing. Cinch up the top and sew seam.

*Make a pom-pom for the top.
*Hanger- Keep the seam on the fold- attach hanging yarn color to a post dcon
the inner edge of the hat brim with a sl st. Chain 18-25 (your
preference),sl st to a post on opposite side of the hat brim. Cut and weave
ends

Mini-Hat #4- Decoration/Gift Bag Crochet Pattern



CROCHET VERSION by Elizabeth Mareno
**Great for beginners to practice stitches and color changes**

Needed:
Small amounts of WW yarn. (Used RHSS Turqua and Lavender)
G hook
Large eye needle for assembly

Stitches Used:
sl st, ch, sc, dc, sc dec, fpdc, bpdc
*fpdc- yo,insert hook from front to back around the post of the stitch
below, yo, pull through, finish like dc
*bpdc- yo, keeping RS facing you, insert hook from back to front around the
post of the stitch below, yo, pull through, finish like dc.

RIBBING:
with G hook and "Ribbing" color- in this case Turqua
1- Ch 36, dc in 3rd ch from hook and each of remaining ch's.
2- (RS) ch2, turn, (fpdc around next dc, bpdc around next dc) repeat to end
of row. Yes, bpdc around the chains at the very end of the row. Cut ribbing
color and tie off.

BODY:
with G hook and first color- in this case Turqua
1- with RS facing you, join with a sc to the top of the ch 2 from previous
row, sc in each dc across.
2- ch1, turn, sc in each sc across.
**drop first color DO NOT CUT Join second color.
3- ch1, turn, (sc in 2sc, ch2, sk 2sc) repeat 4 times, ch2, sk 2sc, sc in 3sc, (ch2, sk 2sc, sc in 2sc) repeat to end (19sc, 8-ch2 spc)
4- repeat row 3.
drop second color DO NOT CUT pick up first color from the side and join.
5- ch1, turn, (sc in 2sc, dc in next open sc 3 rows below) repeat across putting a sc in each sc and dc in open sc 3 rows below.
6- ch1, turn, sc in each sc and dc across.**
drop first color, pick up second color from the side and join.
7- ch3, turn, sk first 2sc, sc in next 2sc, (ch2, sk 2sc, sc in 2sc) repeat 3 times, ch3, sk 3, sc in 2sc, Repeat () 3 times, leave rem 2 sc undone. (16sc, 2 ch3 spc, 6 ch2 spc)
8- ch1, turn, (sc in 2sc, ch2, sk 2sc) 3 times, sc in 2, ch3, sk3, (sc in 2sc, ch2, sk2) 3 times, sc in 2, ch2, sl hook into 1st ch of original ch3 of row 7.
drop second color, pick up first color
9- ch2, turn, (dc in open sc from 3 rows below, sc in each sc) repeat across, dc in unworked sc from 3 rows below.
10- ch1, turn, sc in each dc and sc across.
11-14 Repeat from ** to ** once.
Cut second color, do not cut first color, should be 4-ish inches in length.

TOP DECREASE:
1- ch1, turn, (sc in 3 sc, sc dec over next 2sc) repeat across (28sc)
2- ch1, turn, (sc in 2sc, sc dec) repeat across (21sc)
3- ch1, turn, (sc in 1sc, sc dec) repeat across (14sc)
4- ch1, turn, (sc dec) repeat across (7sc). Cut, leave a long end for
sewing the seam.
Cinch the top closed by weaving your needle in and out of the remaining sc
of row 4. Then fold the hat putting the Right Sides together and whipstitch your
seam together from top to ribbing.
*Make pom-pom and attach
*Hanger- Keep the seam on the fold- attach hanging yarn color to a post dc
on the inner edge of the hat brim with a sl st. Chain 18-25 (your preference),
sl st to a post on opposite side of the hat brim. Cut and weave ends.

Mini-Hat Decoration/Gift Bag Pattern- Hat #3

Original Knit Pattern: http://www.redheart.com/files/patterns/pdf/LW2658.pdf
This one reminds me of hunting season in the Northwoods. :)

CROCHET VERSION by Elizabeth Mareno
**Great for beginners to practice stitches and color changes**

Needed:
Small amounts of WW yarn. (Used RHSS Brite Yellow, Pumpkin & Tea Leaf)
G hook
Large eye needle for assembly

Stitches Used:
sl st, ch, sc, dc, sc dec, fpdc, bpdc
*fpdc- yo,insert hook from front to back around the post of the stitch
below, yo, pull through, finish like dc
*bpdc- yo, keeping RS facing you, insert hook from back to front around the
post of the stitch below, yo, pull through, finish like dc.

RIBBING:
with G hook and "Ribbing" color- in this case Brite Yellow
1- Ch 36, dc in 3rd ch from hook and each of remaining ch's.
2- (RS) ch2, turn, (fpdc around next dc, bpdc around next dc) repeat to end
of row. Yes, bpdc around the chains at the very end of the row. Cut ribbing
color and tie off.

BODY:
with G hook and first stripe color- in this case Pumpkin
1- with RS facing you, join with a sc to the top of the ch 2 from previous
row, sc in each dc across.
2- ch1, turn, sc in each sc across.
drop first color CUT leaving a long enough end to weave in, Join second color (tea leaf).
3-14- ch1, turn, sc in each sc across.
**Should be 4-ish inches long. DO NOT CUT.

TOP DECREASE:
1- ch1, turn, (sc in 3 sc, sc dec over next 2sc) repeat across (28sc)
2- ch1, turn, (sc in 2sc, sc dec) repeat across (21sc)
3- ch1, turn, (sc in 1sc, sc dec) repeat across (14sc)
4- ch1, turn, (sc dec) repeat across (7sc).
Cut, leave a long end for sewing the seam.
Cinch the top closed by weaving your needle in and out of the remaining sc
of row 4. Then fold the hat putting the Right Sides together and whipstitch your
seam together from top to ribbing.
*Make pom-pom and attach
*Hanger- Keep the seam on the fold- attach hanging yarn color to a post dc
on the inner edge of the hat brim with a sl st. Chain 18-25 (your preference),
sl st to a post on opposite side of the hat brim. Cut and weave ends.

Mini Hat Decoration/Gift Bag- Pattern Hat #2

I made the knit version of this hat with size 9 dpns. I prefer working in the round, as opposed to working straight and sewing seams. I will be making the rest of my knit hats in the round.

CROCHET VERSION by Elizabeth Mareno
**Great for beginners to practice stitches and color changes**
Needed:
Small amounts of WW yarn. (Used RHSS Cherry Red and Bright Blue)
G hook
Large eye needle for assembly

Stitches Used:
sl st, ch, sc, sc dec, fpdc, bpdc

*fpdc- yo,insert hook from front to back around the post of the stitch
below, yo, pull through, finish like dc
*bpdc- yo, keeping RS facing you, insert hook from back to front around the
post of the stitch below, yo, pull through, finish like dc.

RIBBING:
with G hook and "Ribbing" color- in this case Bright Blue
1- Ch 36, dc in 3rd ch from hook and each of remaining ch's.
2- (RS) ch2, turn, (fpdc around next dc, bpdc around next dc) repeat to end
of row. Yes, bpdc around the chains at the very end of the row. Cut ribbing
color and tie off.

BODY:
with G hook and first body color- in this case Cherry Red
1- with RS facing you, join 1st body color with a sc to the ch 2, sc in each dc across. (35sc)
2- ch1, turn, sc in each sc across.
**drop 1st color DO NOT CUT, join with 2nd color
3- ch1, turn, sc in each sc across
4- repeat row 3. CUT 2nd color leaving a long enough end to weave in.
**pick up 1st color and join
5-14- ch1, turn, sc in each sc.
**should be 4-ish inches long. CUT 1st color, rejoin 2nd color for top decrease.

TOP DECREASE:
1- ch1, turn, (sc in 3sc, sc dec over next 2sc) repeat across (28sc)
2- ch1, turn, (sc in 2sc, sc dec) repeat across (21sc)
3- ch1, turn, (sc in 1sc, sc dec) repeat across (14sc)
4- ch1, turn, (sc dec) across (7sc)
Cut, leave a long end for sewing the seam.
Cinch the top closed by weaving your needle in and out of the remaining sc
of row 4. Then fold the hat putting the Right Sides together and whipstitch your
seam together from top to ribbing.

*Make pom-pom and attach
*Hanger- Keep the seam on the fold- attach hanging yarn color to a post dc
on the inner edge of the hat brim with a sl st. Chain 18-25 (your preference),
sl st to a post on opposite side of the hat brim. Cut and weave ends.

Mini-Hat Decoration/Gift Bag Pattern- Hat #1


CROCHET VERSION by Elizabeth Mareno
**Great for beginners to practice stitches and color changes**
Needed:
Small amounts of WW yarn. (Used RHSS Brite Yellow and Turqua)
G hook
Large eye needle for assembly

Stitches Used:
sl st, ch, sc, dc, sc dec, fpdc, bpdc
*fpdc- yo,insert hook from front to back around the post of the stitch below, yo, pull through, finish like dc
*bpdc- yo, keeping RS facing you, insert hook from back to front around the post of the stitch below, yo, pull through, finish like dc.

RIBBING:
with G hook and "Ribbing" color- in this case Turqua
1- Ch 36, dc in 3rd ch from hook and each of remaining ch's.
2- (RS) ch2, turn, (fpdc around next dc, bpdc around next dc) repeat to end of row. Yes, bpdc around the chains at the very end of the row. Cut ribbing color and tie off.

BODY:
with G hook and first stripe color- in this case Brite Yellow
1- with RS facing you, join with a sc to the top of the ch 2 from previous row, sc in each dc across.
2- ch1, turn, sc in each sc across.
**drop first color DO NOT CUT Join second color.
3- ch1, turn, sc in each sc across.
4- repeat row 3.
drop second color DO NOT CUT pick up first color from the side and join.
5- ch1, turn, sc in each sc across.
6- repeat row 5**
Repeat from ** to ** until you reach 4-ish inches (roughly 14 rows), finishing with 1st color.
Drop 1st color and cut, leave a long enough end to weave in, pick up second color.

TOP DECREASE:
1- ch1, turn, (sc in 3 sc, sc dec over next 2sc) repeat across (28sc)
2- ch1, turn, (sc in 2sc, sc dec) repeat across (21sc)
3- ch1, turn, (sc in 1sc, sc dec) repeat across (14sc)
4- ch1, turn, (sc dec) repeat across (7sc). Cut, leave a long end for sewing the seam.

Cinch the top closed by weaving your needle in and out of the remaining sc of row 4. Then fold the hat putting the Right Sides together and whipstitch your seam together from top to ribbing.
*Make pom-pom and attach
*Hanger- Keep the seam on the fold- attach hanging yarn color to a post dc on the inner edge of the hat brim with a sl st. Chain 18-25 (your preference), sl st to a post on opposite side of the hat brim. Cut and weave ends.

Wednesday, November 02, 2011

Cheesy Bacon Potato Chowder~ Original Recipe

Not a great picture....but super hearty and very filling! A wonderful Fall Supper!
Came up with this recipe this week. Was such a huge hit with my family I decided to share it with you. This can very easily be turned gluten free (use a gluten free cream soup). I haven't tried, but I think this could also be altered into a lacto-vegetarian recipe using meat substitutes.
Cheesy Bacon Potato Chowder ~ Original Recipe
Serves about 6-8, 1-1/2 cup servings.
Elizabeth Mareno 2011
1/2 lb bacon- cut into bits
1 cup onion- chopped
2 cups carrots- chopped
3 lbs potatoes- chopped (I didn't peel mine. Use your preference)
4 cups chicken or veggie broth
1 can crm of mushroom or crm of chicken
8oz cream cheese
2 cups shredded cheddar
salt, pepper, granulated garlic(use sparingly) for seasoning
Cook bacon in soup pot until fat is rendered and pieces are crispy. Remove some for garnish.
Add onion and cook till translucent.
Add chicken broth (a little at first to deglase the pan, beware of the steam).
Add carrots and cream soup, mix well.
Add potato, cook until tender.
Using a manual potato masher, slightly mash carrots and potatoes to thicken soup.
Add cheeses, stir until completely melted.
Garnish with crispy bacon and chives (optional).

Hats and Shawls


Hi all. More finished objects today. I updated my computer, so of course it didn't work right anymore. I glitches have apparently fixed themselves, so we are back to our regularly scheduled programming.
We will start with shawls today.
My Mommy turns 64 on Friday. (I was supposed to be born on her birthday, but I decided to come 2-1/2 weeks late. I was born to disrupt the status quo.) I decided my mumsy needed some shawls. I wanted to make her three, but only had time to make her two before I had to get the box mailed in time for her birthday. I knit one and I crocheted one. I don't love the crocheted one for two reasons. I think I picked a bad colorway and it is too short for true "shawl-ness". Nevertheless, I sent it to her.
That is the link. I can't get my laptop to work with me today. Maybe the glitches aren't fixed?
I made mine with Lion Brand "Jiffy" in #189 Wine. It is an acrylic bulky weight yarn, with a bit of a "fuzz" to it. The technical term eludes me today . I used a size 15 needle. I also added an extra "V" because I wanted to make sure this would be long enough to wrap around her. Thanks Stef for being my model.
This is the crocheted shawl I made. I want to try it again with a different color and adding a repeat or two.
Fabulous Shawl. http://www.favecrafts.com/Crochet-Sweaters/Fabulous-Shawl-from-Red-Heart I used, "I Love That Yarn" from Hobby Lobby. Don't know the colorway. It looks prettier in the skein.
Here we have a new baby hat pattern I have come up with. I will be adding a pom-pom to the top. This is something I will be selling in my Etsy shop. http://www.etsy.com/shop/originalbiz This particular hat is a custom request from a patron, but I will be making more for the shop soon.
Last week I made some hats for my Mom. She is in the frozen tundra and she needs some cute hats. I sent her some links to hats I was interested in making and these are the ones she approved of.
I learned Entrelac, people!! Exciting to say the least. I feel so accomplished! It is a slow moving pattern for sure, but such cute results. It makes you look brilliant. I will admit, I struggled with it at first. My brain almost imploded, but then Shazam! I caught it and we were off to the races.
This particular pattern gives a very sketchy explanation of how many stitches to cast on for the ribbing. I did the whole measurement thing and did the first hat with a cast on of 104. Turned out big. Not "turn it over, add handles and call it a purse" big, but definitely requiring bobby pins to hold it on big. Or big hair, big. The second one I took it down and cast on 96. Still feels a little roomy to me. The next one I will either cast on 90 or 84. We'll see. Btw, I have a 23" head circumference.
This one is: Patons 100% Wool, not sure of colorway. It's a blue, teal, brown, tan mixture.
This one is Debbie Norville "Everyday". It is my NEW acrylic worsted weight favorite. Soft, really great spring and pill-free. Definitely not the "plastic, scratchy" feel of Red Heart SS. JoAnn's had it on sale 2 for $5, so I thought I'd give it a try. It is spendy if you are looking to do an afghan. I believe it sells for $3.99, or something close to that, for a 3.5 oz skein. But it's GREAT for hats and other small projects like that.
The last hat I made Mom was a take on the Brattleboro Hat from Knitting Daily. http://www.knittingdaily.com/media/p/47263.aspx It is a pattern that is for sale in a book. I wasn't willing to pay $25.00 for a book for one pattern that I was interested in, so I sorta figured it out for myself. This is a terrible picture of me, but I wanted to show you the hat.
I made it from Lion Brand Wool-Ease with size 7 dpns. I, also, had to research how to make decreases while doing a seed stitch in the round. Oy...the things I do for my mother. I did write down the pattern so I could repeat it. However I don't feel right putting it on here because I just copied somebody else's design. Besides, mine is not nearly as "polished" looking as the original. My Mama appreciated it, though. :)
Last, but certainly not least, is the newest 'hat addition' to our house. My love needed to get a second job to take care of this family. He was hired by Domino's to be a rush driver. He went through several weeks of feeling embarrassed about the fact that he had to get a job at Domino's. I, being the tender sweetheart that I am, just could not wrap my brain around what the big deal was. A job is a job. But, for him, it really mattered. He was ashamed. Something clicked last week. He noticed he was not the only late 30's man working there that worked a day job and delivered pizza's at night to make ends meet. God has touched his heart and now he is grateful for this job. *whew* I must say, I thoroughly enjoy his employee discount. :)
Be grateful....Be blessed. :)

Friday, October 28, 2011

Let's Talk About A Sweater....

My daughter fell in love with this sweater. I probably shared it in my last post...? Maybe? Not? So I'm sharing it again. It's called the Trendy Top Overlay by Double Stitch Twins. A free Red Heart pattern.
This is the first one I made. Caron Simply Soft "Grape". Stefani wanted to step out of her color comfort zone and spice up her wardrobe. I think it turned out pretty cool. It looks great on her. :)
I posted Stefani's finished sweater on Facebook and got a great response. My girlfriend, Sam, wanted one in red. Red Heart Soft "Wine".
Then, another friend, Gillian, wanted one in Hot Pink! I haven't gotten her "model" picture, so you only get to see a closeup. Caron Simply Soft "Watermelon".
My Mother-in-law wanted one made in red too. But, she wanted a bright red. Not quite University of Wisconsin Badgers red, but something just under that. Red Heart Soft "Really Red". This red looks like wine in the picture, but in person its a lovely warm red with just a hint of gold. Quite beautiful for fall. Stefani was kind enough to model the sweater so I could send a picture to my mom in law. She came down the stairs anouncing to the house "Dang, this one looks good on me too!" Ahhh. Teenage modesty. ;)
Super easy pattern. Lots of fun to make....and it literally looks great on everyone. :) I'll post pics of Gillian and Ann when they send them to me.
Tah!

Friday, October 14, 2011

Some Pooh for You

Sharing my Pooh with you is a special thing....really. This Pooh, however, was made specifically for my cousin's wife's baby shower. They are having a little boy in December.




My daughter thought it best to strap Pooh into the seat for the ride over to the shower. Makes for a cute picture. :)


Thursday, September 08, 2011

What God is doing in my life.....

Hey all.

I just need to talk. I am freshly amped with caffeine, so I think my fingers will keep up with my mind. However, this might become disjointed in spots, please forgive my rambling.

Have you ever done something and then when it's not this amazing, exciting new thing anymore you start to question the heck did I just do? Yes, me too. But, we pick up our boot straps and pull up our big girl panties and MARCH!

I love Florida. I really do. It is the antithesis of Wisconsin in almost every conceivable way. Oh wait, they do have cows...and roosters. This I know because a couple of streets over there is a cow pasture in the middle of a residential neighborhood. I'm thinking they were there first...? lol And there is a rooster a neighborhood or two over that crows every morning. When I have my windows open, I can hear him.

Moving here has been the hardest thing I have ever done. Some of this I may have whined to you already but, to top the list, the emotional aspect has been heart wrenching. I miss my parents so much some days I could just lay in bed, in a pool of my tears and snot, until I crust over. Thank God my parents learned how to text before we moved or I don't know what I would do. I hate sitting on the phone. I miss my friends. I miss my scrapbook Saturdays. I miss going to the drive-in. I miss card night at our house. I miss cooking in a kitchen that's big enough and having people over. I miss canning salsa with my best friend...... You don't realize how comfortable you are in your life until you have to start over from scratch for everything. Even down to the basic need of friendships. I don't need a lot of people close to me, but when you have no one.......it gets lonely. In the last month or two we have begun to forge friendships with people in our church. Not that we necessarily do things outside of church right now, but it's nice to know that there are people that are happy to see you. Really, the only thing hard after that would be the financial aspect. I don't think we have recovered yet. But BOY!!!! has my faith in God's ability to take care of me grown. Leaps and Bounds!! We are never without what we need.

I am greatful that God has placed me here, in this place, in this time. It would have taken me years to reach the faith level I have gotten to just by moving away from everything I've ever known.

The bible says that if you will give up mothers and fathers and sisters and brothers and properties for His sake, you will be blessed a hundredfold (Matt 19:29)....I am expecting that. We did not move only because we wanted to live somewhere warm. We moved because we felt like God placed us here for a reason. Couldn't tell you what it is right now. We see things developing and are excited about the possibilities. But, no matter what, we are in training for the next season of our lives and we are going to learn all that we need to know. One thing we are certain of is that we are to finish getting our kids through high school. We will not be released to move on until that has happened. They are loving Florida Virtual School so far. It's a great program. Teo actually likes school this year.

We have begun to have devotion time with our kids every night. I know that it is assumed that if you homeschool and you are Christians that you have devotions with your kids. I was never one of those "do it all right" kind of moms. There are lots of things I've fallen down on. Devotions was one of them. We noticed a really bad pattern of bad behavior coming out of our kids. God showed me that is because I neglected my first mission field. So, every night we have family prayer with prayer requests and issues we know of that we pray for others, as well as, ourselves. And we read a book out of Proverbs every night. I want to branch out from that and start adding a chapter from other books. The kids are disappointed if they only get to read once and there are all kinds of things to learn in the bible, so why not? I see the change in programming working. My kids are more pleasant to be around. They are becoming kinder to each other and they are getting the Word in them. Even if its in small doses, it will change their lives. I'm expecting great things.

I received an invitation from a gentleman at church to come and sing with his personal ministry group. He talked with both Tony and I about it and I am going to start going to practices on the 19th. He told Tony the first time he heard me sing, he knew instantly that I had to come sing with him and that God has given me a gift and I need to stop hiding it. Wow. That is humbling. Tony told him that I have been singing in church since I was 12 and he asked "And she's never done anything with it?" It floors me that this man, who performs for and with great talent, loves my voice. I honestly don't look at myself as stacking up to other people's talent even though I've been asked most of my life when I was going to start recording. Fear and insecurity have always held me back. But no more. I know that God has created my voice for His glory and for such a time as this. I think nothing has happened with my voice up till now because it wasn't the right timing. In my life and in my walk with God.

Ok. Time for me to end my rambling. I pray you have a blessed and prosperous day. That you have favor with everyone you come in contact with and you are able to touch someone in a positive way! Shine on, Cities on a Hill!!

Tuesday, September 06, 2011

Thank You Tuesday!

Yay...more pictures! Tuesdays are all about showing off the pictures of my patterns that my readers have been gracious enough to share with me. :) I love seeing what everyone is doing!

First up we have a couple of pictures by Nanette of Nanette Crochet on Blogspot! She's got a nice supply of her own Pokemon patterns, so you should check her out! Nanette used my Azurill pattern and created this first little guy...isn't he just cute??


Then, she modified the Azurill pattern and came up with a Marill pattern....Great Job, Nanette! He's so chubby...I love him!



A big shout out to Marie-France for making Charizard...*whew*....he's a lot of work!! She said she had some technical difficulties, but that she is hoping her son likes him. He's gonna LOVE him!! You did a GREAT job! Congrats on completing that monumental task!!



If you want me to showcase your amazingness...send me pics! I'll be happy to post them and give you all the credit for the finished product!! Yay, you!

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Thank You Tuesday!

I am in need of a gimmick or two to get me blogging on a regular basis again. Too bad none of the days of the week start with C, because there would have to be a Coffee something or another. So I am going to start with hosting "Thank You Tuesday!" for all of my readers that would like to share a picture or two of my patterns that you have made with your very own fingers! :)

This week I have received pictures from Patty T. who did a great job on the AG doll backpack pattern. I love her color choice. It could go one of two ways...either super cute, serene and sweet or GO PACK!! :) Either way...Great Job Patty!!






If you would like to share your pictures with me so I can show the world how awesome you guys are...then please email them to me. You will find my email address in the bar on the right --->


And thank you for making my patterns!


Saturday, August 20, 2011

Fantasy Tree w/Elves & Animals Pattern

Fantasy Tree with Elves and Animals Pattern

By Elizabeth Mareno 

 

An ad-free copy of this pattern is available on ETSY or my website.

Materials: 

F & H hooks
Large eye needle for assembly
fiberfill
5/8-1"button, washable

For Tree:
1 skein Warm Brown RHSS
3-4 oz Kelly Green RHSS
1 oz Black RHSS
small amt of tan for tree hole, if wanted

For Elves:
1 0z skin tone each. Used Off White and Bone Caron Simply Soft
1 oz clothing. Used Blue Mint SS, Navy SS, Random purple wool for pants.
1 oz hair. Used warm brown RHSS and random stash white.
small bits of lip and eye colors
tiny bits of accent colors for headbands and Gwinnet's belt.

For Bluejay:
1 oz off white soft ww yarn
1 oz blue soft ww yarn
small bit of soft black ww yarn

For Fox:
1 oz rust-colored soft ww yarn
small bit off white and black soft ww yarns

For Unicorn:
2 oz white ww yarn. used white RHSS
small bit bone soft ww yarn
small bit black


 TREE: with larger hook
Start with Warm Brown: Bottom
Row 1- ch2, 6sc in 2nd ch. (6) do not join.
Row 2- 2sc in each sc (12)
Row 3- (1sc, 2sc in next) around. (18)
Row 4- (1sc in 2, 2sc in next) around (24)
Row 5- (1sc in 3, 2sc in next) around (30)
Row 6-10- continue increasing 1 sc per stitch series until you have (1sc in 8sc, 2sc in next). (60)
Row 11- BLO (back loops only) sc in each sc (60)
Row 12- in Both Loops, sc in each (60)
Row 13-20- repeat row 12 (60)
Row 21- BLO- (sc in 8, sc dec) around (54)
Row 22- in Both Loops(sc in 7, sc dec) around (48)
Row 23-28- continue decreasing 1sc per stitch series until you have (sc in 1, sc dec) (12)
**Begin to stuff firmly at about row 25, placing the piece of plastic canvas on the bottom before filling- Make sure your open loops are to the outside or right side.
Row 29- (sc dec) around. (6)
Finish off leaving a long end.
Using needle sew top closed and weave ends.


Body: Use Warm Brown
Attach to open loops from row 20 of the bottom with a slip stitch.
Row 1: ch1, sc in join, sc in each open loop. (60sc) join.
Row 2: ch1, sc in join and each sc around. (60) join
Row 3-8: Repeat row 2
Row 9: ch1, sc in 57sc. Leave rem unworked. (57)
Row 10: ch1, turn, sc dec, sc in 53sc, sc dec (55)
Row 11: ch1, turn, sc dec, sc in 51, sc dec (53)
Row 12: ch1, turn, sc dec, sc in 49, sc dec (51)
Row 13: ch1, turn, sc in each (51)
Row 14: ch1, 2sc in first sc, sc in each sc to last sc, 2sc in last sc (53)
Row 15-16: repeat row 14 (57 on row 16)
Row 17: (RS) ch1, turn, sc in each sc, ch3, join with first sc (57sc, 3chs)
Row 18: ch1, sc in each sc and ch around. (60) join.
Row 19: ch1, sc in join and each sc around. (60) join.
Row 20-25: Repeat row 19. Finish off after row 25 and weave ends.

"Knot" Door: with Black
with larger hook
Rows 1-6: Repeat Tree bottom Rows 1-6 ending with 36sc.
Create a loop on one side by putting a ch6 on the last row, reconnect with a slip stitch if its the last thing you do.
Stitch whatever "decorations" you want to knot to make it look more tree knottish.
Sew the opposite side of the loop to the tree to create a "door".


Tree Top: With green, do not join.
Work rows 1-10 of bottom, (60 sc)
Row 11: BLO, (sc in 9, 2sc in next) (66)
Row 12: (hdc in 10sc, 2 hdc in next sc) (72)
Row 13: (hdc in 11hdc, 2hdc in next hdc) (78)
Row 14: hdc in each around.
Row 15: (hdc in 12, 2hdc in next) (84)
Row 16: (hdc in 6, 2hdc in next) (96)
Row 17-18: hdc in each
Row 19: (hdc in 6, hdc dec over next 2) around (84)
Row 20: (hdc in 12, hdc dec) (78)
Row 21: switch to sc, (sc in 11hdc, sc dec) (72)
Row 22: (sc in 4sc, sc dec) (;60)
Row 23: (sc in 3sc, sc dec) (48)
Row 24: (sc in 2, sc dec) (36)
Row 25: (sc in 1, sc dec) (24) Start Stuffing!
Row 26: (sc dec) (12)
Row 27: (sc dec) (6)
Cut, leaving a long end for closing up the top. Weave through open ends to close up holes.
Attach open loops from row 11 to top of body with whipstitch.


Branch: Use warm brown.
Row 1: ch2, 6sc in 2nd ch (6)
Row 2: 2sc in each (12)
Row 3: BLO, sc in each (12)
Row 4: Both loops, sc in each (12)
Row 5: Repeat row 4
Row 6: (sc in 3sc, 2sc in next) (15)
Row 7: sc in each. cut, leaving longer end to sew with.
Slip stitch in the open loops from row 3.
Stuff lightly and sew on.


Strap: with warm brown
Row1: ch5, sc in 2nd ch from hook and next 3 (4)
Row 2: ch1, turn, sc in each sc
Row 3-50: repeat row 2, do not cut.
turn on side, sc in each row end down the side. Cut leaving a long end.
Reattach to the other side and repeat. Sew handle ends to the bag.


Gwinnet & Riven
Riven, in his natural habitat

Riven, showing off his awesome ears

Gwinnet


Elves: with F hook, and flesh tone
Row 1: ch2, 6sc in 2nd ch from hook (6)
Row 2: 2sc in each sc (12)
Row 3: (1sc in next, 2sc in next) repeat (18)
Row 4-8: sc in each
Row 9: (sc dec) repeat (9) Stuff Head!
Row 10: (1sc in next, sc dec) (6)
Row 11: (2sc in each) (12)
Row 12: (for boy, change to tunic color) (sc in 1sc, 2sc in next) (18)
Row 13: (for girl, change to tunic color), sc in each around
Row 14-17: sc in each
Row 18: BLO, sc in each
Row 19: (for boy, change to pant color, for girl, keep tunic color) Both loops, Sc in each (18)
Row 20: sc in each
Row 21: (sc in 1sc, sc dec) (12) Stuff
Row 22: (sc dec around) (6) Cut, sew closed

Tunic: with tunic color
1 side:
Row 1: in open loops on row 18, attach w/sl st to 1st loop of that row w/tunic color. sc in 8 more loops (9sc)
Row 2: ch1, turn, sc in each sc
Row 3-5: Repeat row 2. cut and weave ends

2nd side:
In remaining open loops, repeat 1st side. 

Skirt: with tunic color
Row 1: join with open loops, ch4, trc in each loop (18)
Row 2: ch3, (2trc in next, 1trc in next) (27trc)
Row 3: ch4, trc in each (27 trc)
Row 4: repeat row 3.
Row 5: ch1, sc in each trc . cut and weave ends.


Legs: start with flesh tone- do not stuff
Row 1: ch2, 6sc in 2nd ch from hook. (6)
Row 2: 2sc in each (12)
Row 3: sc in 4, sc dec twice, sc in 4 (10)
Row 4: sc in 4, sc dec, sc in 4 (9) change to pants color for boy, leave flesh tone for girl
Row 5-13: sc in each. 
leave long end, sew to bottom, evenly spaced. 


Arms: with flesh tone- do not stuff
Row 1: ch2, 6sc in 2nd ch (6)
Row 2: sc in each. (12) change to tunic color for both
Row 3-10: sc in each. cut off, leave long end for sewing, sew to sides.


Ears: with flesh tone
ch2
4sc in 2nd ch from hook
ch2, sl st in 2nd ch from hook and next sc (created point to ear)
cut, sew to side of head. you will have to flip one to make sure the ear lobes are both pointing the right direction.

Embroider faces
Hair, cut 3" pieces and latch hook to head. Unravel strands to create "curly" hair.
Headband: ch20 out of coordinating color.
Girl belt: straight stitch belt on waist leaving long ends. tie at the waist and knot the ends.



Cristata, the Bluejay


Cristata, from the side



Bluejay: with blue, white and small amt of black 
Head: start with blue
Row 1: ch2, 6sc in 2nd ch (6)
Row 2: 2sc in each (12)
Row 3: sc in 6, switch to white, sc in 6, swith to blue
Row 4: sc in 7, switch to white, sc in 5, switch to blue
Row 5: sc dec 4 times, Stuff, switch to white, sc dec 2 times, switch to blue. (6) 

Body: with white
Row 1: ch2, 6sc in 2nd ch (6)
Row 2: (2sc in 2, 1sc in next) (10)
Row 3: sc in 1, 2sc in 2sc, sc in 3, 2sc in 2, sc in 2 (14)
Row 4: sc in each
Row 5: sc in 2, 2sc in 2sc, sc in 5, 2sc in 2, sc in 3 (18)
Row 6: sc in 3, sc dec, sc in 7, sc dec, sc in 4 (16)
Row 7: sc in 2, sc dec, sc in 6, sc dec, sc in 4 ((14)
Row 8: sc in 9, dec, sc in 3 (13)
Row 9: sc in 9, dec, sc in 2 (12) stuff lightly
Row 10: sc in 9, dec, sc in 1 (11)
Row 11: sc in 9, dec (10)
Row 12: sc in 7, dec, sc in 1 (9)
Row 13: sc dec once, leave rem undone, cut leave long end and sew flat

Tail Feathers: w/blue
Row 1: in tail end, sl to to one end, ch2, 2hdc in sm sp, 2hdc in next 2 spaces, 3 hdc in last space (10hdc)
Row 2: ch2, turn, hdc in each across (10hdc)

Wings, with blue:
Row 1: ch2, 3sc in 2nd ch (3)
Row 2-3: ch1, turn, 2sc in 1st and last sc, sc in each sc between. (7 sc by row 3)
Row 4: ch1, turn, sc in 5sc, dec (6)
Row 5: ch1, turn, sc dec, sc in each (5)
Row 6: ch1, turn, sc, sc dec twice (3)
Row 7: ch1, turn, sc dec, sc in 1sc (2)
Row 8: ch1, turn, sc dec.

Make 2, attach to side with curved edge down. Embroider black accents
Attach head.

Beak: with black
ch4, sl st in 2nd ch from hook and next 2, attach to face.

Feet: cut 3" pieces, latch hook 1 piece per leg to bottom. tie a knot at the bottom and cut close to make "feet"


Vulpini, the fox


Vulpini, from the side



Fox: with rust and Fhook
Body: 
Row 1: ch2, 6sc in 2nd ch (6)
Row 2: 2sc in each (12)
Row 3: (sc in 1, 2sc in next) (18)
Row 4-10: sc in each
Row 11: (sc in 1sc, sc dec) (12) Stuff
Row 12: sc dec around (6)
Cut and sew closed 

Legs: make 4- do not stuff
Row 1: repeat row 1 of body
Row 2-6: sc in each sc 
cut and sew onto the bottom of the body

Tail: 
Row 1: repeat as for body
Row 2: (sc in 1sc, 2sc in next) (9)
Row 3-6: sc in each
Row 7: (sc in 1sc, sc dec) (6)
Row 8: sc in each. Cut and sew to butt.

Head:
Row 1: ch10, join to make circle, sc in each ch, join.
Row 2: ch1, sc in each sc
Row 3: ch1, sc in 2sc, hdc in 5, sc in 3 (10)
Row 4: ch1, sc in 2, 2hdc in 2, sc in 1, 2hdc in 2, sc in 3 (14)
Row 5: ch1, sc in 2, sc dec in 2, sc in 1, sc dec in 2, sc in remaining
Row 6: sc
Row 7: sc in 4, sc dec, sc in 4 (9)
Row 8: (sc in 1, sc dec) (6)
Row 9: (sc dec) (3), cut, stuff, sew head on.

Ears: make 2
Row 1: ch3, sc in 2nd ch from hook and next ch (2)
Row 2: ch1, turn, sc dec (1)
Row 3: ch1, turn, sc in each, cut and sew on.

Bib: with off white
Row 1: ch4, sc in 2nd ch and each (3)
Row 2-4: ch1, turn, sc in each
Row 5: sc dec, sc in 1 (2)
Row 6-8: sc in each
Row 9: sc dec (1)
cut, leave long end for sewing. with a whipstitch attach to the front between nose and front legs.
embroider eyes, nose and ears with black



Seata, the unicorn


Seata's Hair


Seata, from the side



Unicorn: starting at the nose with white, ch2.
1- 5sc in 2nd ch from hook. (5)
2- 2sc in each (10)
3-5- sc in each
6- (sc in 1, 2sc in next) 3 times, sc in 4 (13)
7-10- sc in each
11- (sc in 1, dec) 4 times, sc in last (9) Stuff
12- (dec) 4 times, sc in last (5)
Cut and sew closed, set aside.
Embroider eyes and nostrils with black.

NECK: with white, ch9, join to make a circle, don't twist it.
1- ch1, sc in each ch, join (9)
2-5- ch1, sc in each sc, join
Cut, sew to head with eyes on top @ rows 10-12.

HORN:
ch4, join for circle
Row 1: 5sc in circle, join
Row 2-3: sc
Row 4: sc dec twice, 1sc in last (3), join, cut leave long end for sewing.
sew to forehead.

EARS: with white, ch3
1- sc in 2nd ch from hook and next (2)
2- ch1, turn, sc in 1st sc, 2 sc in next. (3)
Cut and sew to head with a slight curve.

BODY: with white ch2
1- 6sc in 2nd ch from hook. (6)
2- 2sc in each. (12)
3- (sc in 1, 2sc in next) around (18)
4- (sc in 2, 2sc in next) around (24)
5-17- sc in each
18- (sc in 2, dec) around (18)
19- (sc in 1, dec) around (12) STUFF
20- (dec) around (6)
Cut, leave long end, Weave ends pulling closed like the prince and princess.

**Sew head and neck to body on begin side of body, leave the closing end for the tail.

LEGS: Do not stuff, make 4
with tan or brown, ch2
1- 6sc in 2nd ch (6)
2-3- sc in each, change to white at end of row 3
4-10- sc in each
11- 2sc in each,
Cut and sew on to the body at the 'shoulder' areas of the body. It's ok if the fluted pieces of the legs overlap a little. The horse will stand on its own.

MANE and TAIL: Cut 4" pcs and latch-hook them around sc posts on the neck. Put as much or as little as you like. Cut 4-5/6" pcs for the tail and fold over and latch hook to the butt.
Use same method for making hair curly as done for the elves.












I hope you enjoy this pattern!

 © Bizzy Crochet and Design 2011



Officially Published!!

And I didn't even have to ask for it! :)

Thanks to Christine over at AllFreeCrochet.com, who features my free patterns quite a bit in her newsletters (*SHOUT OUT to all my fellow free crochet pattern junkies*), I am now a published crochet designer.

Best thing? It's free. That's right baby, I prefer to keep my patterns free! Believe it or not, there are some of us out there that don't look at our talent, gifts or ideas as a way to make a buck. I'm not slamming anyone who does, but I don't feel like charging you would bring me any joy.

Don't get me wrong, I will be starting an etsy store here pretty quick, but not as a way to sell my paper ideas. It will be a way for me to sell my personally handmade items. Some of my etsy items will be patterns I already have, some of them will be new, original and exclusive to my etsy shop. Patterns that I will not make available to the public. Ya gotta give me that much. ;)

So, without further ado....17 Popular Free Crochet Patterns E-Book....Go get it!

Sunday, July 17, 2011

Introducing the Woodland Elves Bag~Pattern Coming Soon!!

I sat here this morning with my cup of coffee and my freshly warmed lemon glaze donut from Krispy Kreme going over my Facebook stuff and realized...I have not told you about the Woodland Elves Bag that I have completed! 

Without the use of a computer on a regular basis, I forget to do things....like blog. I have been ever busy in the toy bag department again. I knew I wanted to do a tree, but I wasn't sure what I wanted to put into it. My son wanted elves with pointy ears and cookies. Think Nabisco. I was leaning toward gnomes and animals. As it turns out, we both got a little something out of the deal. He got his elves, I got my animals. 

As always, all of the toys are perfectly sized for little fists. :) Thank you to everyone who put their two cents in when I asked for advice. It helped! I, actually, love the way the bag turned out. It's got a great deal of personality and whimsy....in my humble estimation. I will post the pattern within the next week or so. Just have to clean up my scribbles and then get them on here. Until then, enjoy the pictures.

Woodland Elves and their Friends!
Gwinnet and Riven, the elves (complete with pointy ears!) Seata, the unicorn
Vulpini, the fox
Cristata, the blue jay
How did I come up with the blue jay and foxes names, you ask? I used foxes "tribe" and blue jay's "genus". I was a little worried that Pokemon might have beaten me to the name Vulpini for the fox. Their Vulpix, etc is a little fox based Pokemon.

Thankfully, Vulpini (sounds like an Italian acrobat or magician, doesn't it? lol) is not used as a Pokemon character. Bluejay is loosely based on a bluejay. It's hard to get all of the beautiful and amazing intricacy of God into a 2" toy. Really hard. So, he's as close as I could get him. ;)

My son, ever the story weaver, will be coming up with a story to go along with this bag. He loved the names and personalities I gave the Barnyard Gang and thinks that every bag I create from now on needs to have the same treatment. He is busy enjoying a few weeks with family back in Wisconsin, so it will have to wait until his return. However, I am quite sure the story will be chock full of inspired ideas! Can't wait!

Crafting Memories: Section 5 of the Memories Blanket CAL

     Crafting Memories: Section 5 of the Memories Blanket CAL Oh my gosh!! It's the last week of the Memories CAL already!! I can't ...