tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17640402690319827652024-02-21T01:47:07.574-08:00ChirpinBirdieWelcome to my blog!
<br>
Feeling crafty? Check out the free crochet patterns.
<br>
Hungry? Try out some of the delicious recipes.
<br>
Like cute animals and traveling? I have a cute dapple dachshund that likes to tell people about his adventures.
<br>
Want pretty, handmade items? Then my shop is the place to browse.Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.comBlogger106125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-7479883557729442902014-08-24T12:37:00.002-07:002014-08-25T12:51:50.307-07:00Bench Dedication - Trail of 100 GiantsHello all!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I hope you are well.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is a somewhat unusual post for me - as it has nothing to do with any type of craft, or Jixer. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It does have to do with my Great-Uncle Chuck (aka Reverend Dr. Charles White), and the US Forest Service allowing the Giant Sequoia National Monument Association dedicate a bench in his honor on the Trail of 100 Giants.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
In his life, my uncle helped lay the groundwork for many foundations and associations, including the Giant Sequoia National Monument Association - one of the other big groups he helped from the beginning is the North American Interfaith Network. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Back to the bench though - it is a pretty huge deal for the Forest Service to allow such a dedication to happen! If anyone deserves to be remembered for all of those he helped, it is my Uncle Chuck!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr-oV_nobYf5_MYWYQgIKpQAK1kPt8kkWY8UiDfLeSCqEPAeUoIGJGtPTKAnXiH_5sSg9lXZNR9qhf4J-t1FjEyb-Mee9LNnyR2Ryvl6ExyFLvk2cgIaATjw1z2WS5tEri0RlywM80Ldw/s1600/21+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr-oV_nobYf5_MYWYQgIKpQAK1kPt8kkWY8UiDfLeSCqEPAeUoIGJGtPTKAnXiH_5sSg9lXZNR9qhf4J-t1FjEyb-Mee9LNnyR2Ryvl6ExyFLvk2cgIaATjw1z2WS5tEri0RlywM80Ldw/s1600/21+WM.jpg" height="318" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This plaque on the bench sums it up the best!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you are in California, I highly suggest walking the Trail of 100 Giants. It is mostly handicapped accessible, and something even the small kids can walk without you having to pick them up!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz8EUNAJW9er8KhcYEvX8loAPGtwPtdGkzSQ6nb4c3pSvvZBy4suaCqaxV6BcuOLqqGY1YkUOpfxg9UeqxyKZHpCVFjt96jFy7vxxwtWCa_aAv82NePeHG-b-X97n-eeYUpRoNdWXNXSc/s1600/22+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz8EUNAJW9er8KhcYEvX8loAPGtwPtdGkzSQ6nb4c3pSvvZBy4suaCqaxV6BcuOLqqGY1YkUOpfxg9UeqxyKZHpCVFjt96jFy7vxxwtWCa_aAv82NePeHG-b-X97n-eeYUpRoNdWXNXSc/s1600/22+WM.jpg" height="390" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is the bench from the main trail. If you do visit the trail, the bench is labeled as the meditation bench, and is the only bench located on a spur.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbsIMwNjDzPMIZwFNG3ePH7V2ecjdGfdlgN3cQmP_WFsQ_yzojw_ovuoWB3MBsaW4Rmrllo42PDa9sAfj0f-f566XnHSx12hBWnu57-8NmDfdPxTtl5oX0tdKOrJmRF8CT7FmKlvUsWwQ/s1600/24+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbsIMwNjDzPMIZwFNG3ePH7V2ecjdGfdlgN3cQmP_WFsQ_yzojw_ovuoWB3MBsaW4Rmrllo42PDa9sAfj0f-f566XnHSx12hBWnu57-8NmDfdPxTtl5oX0tdKOrJmRF8CT7FmKlvUsWwQ/s1600/24+WM.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is the view from the bench. It is absolutely beautiful! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There are two giant sequoias straight across from the bench.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVaRbnv7PC4a5HC-p925XIcIgc5C1xx6jwGmsl1hj4SM0-X8ifKE6LUvAQ4c5qmQfmETIbZde8yM1vEgfmjgw3AqUdaFj1nTGZbA1okz_7LjYkgWs-Qzw6TUytgNK_9A8OyTeUhW6KRLk/s1600/23+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVaRbnv7PC4a5HC-p925XIcIgc5C1xx6jwGmsl1hj4SM0-X8ifKE6LUvAQ4c5qmQfmETIbZde8yM1vEgfmjgw3AqUdaFj1nTGZbA1okz_7LjYkgWs-Qzw6TUytgNK_9A8OyTeUhW6KRLk/s1600/23+WM.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A closer look at the two giant sequoias across from the bench.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The beauty is astounding!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzKswmI7daVbvthnGX75rJB0dEl4GxsNF68QU-vHrXwtiWNwfZF6IDzoGc9K9kL8TdAnl5IqKeSlavYl2b8dhHySkIjH28XlJznkRCrjMja9rO9IrX6zltxOh8ShWMtRadOhSAO4Vr5V4/s1600/17+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzKswmI7daVbvthnGX75rJB0dEl4GxsNF68QU-vHrXwtiWNwfZF6IDzoGc9K9kL8TdAnl5IqKeSlavYl2b8dhHySkIjH28XlJznkRCrjMja9rO9IrX6zltxOh8ShWMtRadOhSAO4Vr5V4/s1600/17+WM.jpg" height="620" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is my Great-Aunt Lizzie, with one of the members of the Giant Sequoia National Monument that worked alongside my uncle (who affectionately described Uncle Chuck as a pain in the ass), and one of our guides on the trail (you don't need one if you walk it), Dale.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7wzXeWw_uHqUjIT4ESzQOO6mM2qe-IFv6EtZm4g2YGZppb7mOdVX28HidVYisdnp1KP41Jxdh_R9Or7_sJALGr8QX6CHvNaf8LceCytUk5tFFOafRS3SC8Uaui-EJ9lGAmwAteZU7xo0/s1600/18+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7wzXeWw_uHqUjIT4ESzQOO6mM2qe-IFv6EtZm4g2YGZppb7mOdVX28HidVYisdnp1KP41Jxdh_R9Or7_sJALGr8QX6CHvNaf8LceCytUk5tFFOafRS3SC8Uaui-EJ9lGAmwAteZU7xo0/s1600/18+WM.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My Great-Aunt Lizzie, me, and my dad on the bench. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We were the three people in the room, holding my Uncle Chuck, when he passed last October. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Aunt Lizzie held his left hand, I held his right hand, and my dad held him up in a sitting position, because he didn't want to lay down.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYpCokxkx6pwIqlFaWmKI8OHxHs2Dwd2vFPW9Ji_KC2RK6qdqaAKpC5-W-d8kMEEJirwtXd8yiyvRyJ5hXGrgnBFeydi6byfGSZWmEgMZpEUkZARBaC3pfP-cq4FzCm33CPJOIvotcVmo/s1600/19+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYpCokxkx6pwIqlFaWmKI8OHxHs2Dwd2vFPW9Ji_KC2RK6qdqaAKpC5-W-d8kMEEJirwtXd8yiyvRyJ5hXGrgnBFeydi6byfGSZWmEgMZpEUkZARBaC3pfP-cq4FzCm33CPJOIvotcVmo/s1600/19+WM.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My Uncle Chuck inspired me more than I can ever explain! He had his own spiritual beliefs (obviously, he was a Reverend, and spent years leading different churches), yet he never put others down for having different beliefs. He learned about other's views instead of judging. This is something that many people can learn from. He always encouraged my want to learn about every religious belief, and I actually inherited so many new books from him, that I had to buy a new bookshelf!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Of course, there are many beautiful sequoias on the trail - hence, Trail of 100 Giants!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Honestly, sequoias are my favorite tree, and one of the best perks about living in California!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibPNeZ8xm8CHMrmyDXvb65RcbNOZK59kKt5lAJPeCgDXbaHPq5SP7GA4I-2nwHx3mbQrX4Bp6wmdk4SQ3PYpj6QnT0Qzds__EKWQu_A5ffxqK3D0uwsG_a1m8gBcd1RbI3nhP5igbKj4w/s1600/11+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibPNeZ8xm8CHMrmyDXvb65RcbNOZK59kKt5lAJPeCgDXbaHPq5SP7GA4I-2nwHx3mbQrX4Bp6wmdk4SQ3PYpj6QnT0Qzds__EKWQu_A5ffxqK3D0uwsG_a1m8gBcd1RbI3nhP5igbKj4w/s1600/11+WM.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY6xNfps69jMMMolf4hU3BVhAhMop-OsTD1XB__YPhZ9OMjU0YAtoljipAKg0xsttq7PsOxDf63QmbUKEp95QX6tUkdPf9ef6GThG3O9iYGTjGfhHwsKwxNBRqLPpAhTONbS20tGP-VE8/s1600/14+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY6xNfps69jMMMolf4hU3BVhAhMop-OsTD1XB__YPhZ9OMjU0YAtoljipAKg0xsttq7PsOxDf63QmbUKEp95QX6tUkdPf9ef6GThG3O9iYGTjGfhHwsKwxNBRqLPpAhTONbS20tGP-VE8/s1600/14+WM.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_5C8MXH9IvFMk5Lr2JZVTACmBktdnYLt2AjgVlKQyVsC2_ufJgsoqpDX1gB-fDy1Fs11_t2ULW_LLsDb6lkT5KPZcqO84g08ibWPDZ8z87NV3aPdVeYllw3IYTHRGXTK_nP_c3p4OPVQ/s1600/15+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_5C8MXH9IvFMk5Lr2JZVTACmBktdnYLt2AjgVlKQyVsC2_ufJgsoqpDX1gB-fDy1Fs11_t2ULW_LLsDb6lkT5KPZcqO84g08ibWPDZ8z87NV3aPdVeYllw3IYTHRGXTK_nP_c3p4OPVQ/s1600/15+WM.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioTjbXaULnq4TCCr9yYxBDyG8KVXQzgjKWnls6FM6Lh_FmZkSKozBFZUBo7qk6sdZi1y0kwBJTsNiDzAVZ3-UiERPvFrQhp7Vjl2x7U023zfqfJKxGaOlDLgXR-ztz2N-Yfqcgm-nQnOk/s1600/1+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioTjbXaULnq4TCCr9yYxBDyG8KVXQzgjKWnls6FM6Lh_FmZkSKozBFZUBo7qk6sdZi1y0kwBJTsNiDzAVZ3-UiERPvFrQhp7Vjl2x7U023zfqfJKxGaOlDLgXR-ztz2N-Yfqcgm-nQnOk/s1600/1+WM.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguq_R7ViuT5httZd9tj7cXuXEJz2drXyKlpINZ-AIPi3S2sOY4pYQsDEazvculizJkeMJ80pQ_4ZfaK8q8uaAEgwEdnW-nLnsE40LRkF98dYmpawYTU8aZyOo2Z6bHwn2qv4OfscCGKnM/s1600/5+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguq_R7ViuT5httZd9tj7cXuXEJz2drXyKlpINZ-AIPi3S2sOY4pYQsDEazvculizJkeMJ80pQ_4ZfaK8q8uaAEgwEdnW-nLnsE40LRkF98dYmpawYTU8aZyOo2Z6bHwn2qv4OfscCGKnM/s1600/5+WM.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLoZykr2xR6pEXQOlgq3dzrOL-aGiBiGgebyAkxAWKousamnHCaX3CRDZw-DCm2qyKGsosiPvKrByFhapn3afzWbEC9qsLdGdz0-OyZgOkmWsRFcSUbzRWvDeA-i2u-i6Zie4u-5reKE4/s1600/10+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLoZykr2xR6pEXQOlgq3dzrOL-aGiBiGgebyAkxAWKousamnHCaX3CRDZw-DCm2qyKGsosiPvKrByFhapn3afzWbEC9qsLdGdz0-OyZgOkmWsRFcSUbzRWvDeA-i2u-i6Zie4u-5reKE4/s1600/10+WM.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had some fun playing with my fish-eye lens as things for the dedication were winding down.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It had been a while since I used it, since I often forget that I have it.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGj9t-bQSUPFuTAfV50Oc_vLJpJVqAu0CbQdLryf58moTlsnKUwejcr9JxePtwQINOq4R1ei20kACmhd2pU_swsJhKuDAxTNsVOUQ-FLvtCdNsvQmqqBrDuMwiGsPvZQ7Q-clDiyf_7Ks/s1600/20+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGj9t-bQSUPFuTAfV50Oc_vLJpJVqAu0CbQdLryf58moTlsnKUwejcr9JxePtwQINOq4R1ei20kACmhd2pU_swsJhKuDAxTNsVOUQ-FLvtCdNsvQmqqBrDuMwiGsPvZQ7Q-clDiyf_7Ks/s1600/20+WM.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCYwS_P-n0EFeh0FZmayBslbY34HmCSrtKPAZ6Re4XcFUzK532DpwSJtoPrMGiqCWDc4EL6dJavTElIrtnQb_2ZvOxSKPU5CaLuR4dl01hKRWn0XdlJghJh5494UQCpDFuz9CGR7b-TVQ/s1600/26+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCYwS_P-n0EFeh0FZmayBslbY34HmCSrtKPAZ6Re4XcFUzK532DpwSJtoPrMGiqCWDc4EL6dJavTElIrtnQb_2ZvOxSKPU5CaLuR4dl01hKRWn0XdlJghJh5494UQCpDFuz9CGR7b-TVQ/s1600/26+WM.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I also had the opportunity to spend some time with my family!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtI5soZMesAtDo5X40ZJ8qcNBuY9dBCurTme3-979YxucXU9eC5MtsZNhtOLiqVe1BunsknuLraVewudf2dHZNtM81AoBuw6Fo821slvEwQ8nM9am8yoCo_8XW0KbUhxyFjBSMi5tP3To/s1600/16+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtI5soZMesAtDo5X40ZJ8qcNBuY9dBCurTme3-979YxucXU9eC5MtsZNhtOLiqVe1BunsknuLraVewudf2dHZNtM81AoBuw6Fo821slvEwQ8nM9am8yoCo_8XW0KbUhxyFjBSMi5tP3To/s1600/16+WM.jpg" height="640" width="414" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My wonderful, adorable parents - married now for 36 years!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My two younger cousins, and I had so much fun hanging back from the group. There was a lot of giggling happening between the three of us!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfKikmwst7HxZ9G2BNRiJfy-rApQZBKUb4Jm5bOwH9oOcLi_ElU77L_c8_dKKdzHJnTK7Gk14mF-X8rvmwG1jRRVfto6HDXgCRynzMLt8wDOamd32GmogPUxKNJkEQrwLgeWp71wDbisA/s1600/2+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfKikmwst7HxZ9G2BNRiJfy-rApQZBKUb4Jm5bOwH9oOcLi_ElU77L_c8_dKKdzHJnTK7Gk14mF-X8rvmwG1jRRVfto6HDXgCRynzMLt8wDOamd32GmogPUxKNJkEQrwLgeWp71wDbisA/s1600/2+WM.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaHd_zdsVYUbumsNxvQZtDzhV5iTh-z-z5oigLAacf4XcoS0m-12Sgr20PoZT9KBu4JRDchwwAtbBrweoeFKMIMX31vjCyxlF_v-c1sLMSldIRFwp5abkVprVGWARxWp5RNJ4mEX1SExQ/s1600/3+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaHd_zdsVYUbumsNxvQZtDzhV5iTh-z-z5oigLAacf4XcoS0m-12Sgr20PoZT9KBu4JRDchwwAtbBrweoeFKMIMX31vjCyxlF_v-c1sLMSldIRFwp5abkVprVGWARxWp5RNJ4mEX1SExQ/s1600/3+WM.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP3OCEPO59__spNU5EXMDOYEQnE8bO_Yy5TYVmF_xB2EoDZRdMxWdQzaYSGGpSJrO0xcbS3xZhp7M4lKsb7eFIQ9rN_9YvC_cFpzyiSIf6cJaHbpxdCas7Tvk9xgFMoGL59o2xlaMNxGo/s1600/4+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP3OCEPO59__spNU5EXMDOYEQnE8bO_Yy5TYVmF_xB2EoDZRdMxWdQzaYSGGpSJrO0xcbS3xZhp7M4lKsb7eFIQ9rN_9YvC_cFpzyiSIf6cJaHbpxdCas7Tvk9xgFMoGL59o2xlaMNxGo/s1600/4+WM.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV2cE9xzyIMSuzyLDWbth9TQt5Q8VyjuANoDJE4XJERdEI8TDapcBU055pZUed7-CXMmnece9H5n9ejGw_RMArBZW0FJNnfI9nV48jwvw1tuiosTMi640-h2G1aNamRa27GiREHmxa3vk/s1600/12+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV2cE9xzyIMSuzyLDWbth9TQt5Q8VyjuANoDJE4XJERdEI8TDapcBU055pZUed7-CXMmnece9H5n9ejGw_RMArBZW0FJNnfI9nV48jwvw1tuiosTMi640-h2G1aNamRa27GiREHmxa3vk/s1600/12+WM.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I snapped lots of cute photos of my cousin Emily (of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaFFPRM0AbZXgGD2cp_8Sxw" target="_blank">Giggles Unedited</a>).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLpWYClsFkLh0grtKEbV2lo7uqBWCkIE-1uXcFuW4MwyE25NgCSf1M0YsXnhNeBXLWUZik1XGW5GI8TLDqa9Xqd71RTiSEmHdYV8wimLRh_r50AdACtIKv0f4v3vw0CpP1aCYBwwkL7uE/s1600/6+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLpWYClsFkLh0grtKEbV2lo7uqBWCkIE-1uXcFuW4MwyE25NgCSf1M0YsXnhNeBXLWUZik1XGW5GI8TLDqa9Xqd71RTiSEmHdYV8wimLRh_r50AdACtIKv0f4v3vw0CpP1aCYBwwkL7uE/s1600/6+WM.jpg" height="370" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thanks to my Aunt Teresa, who used my camera to snap this photo of me with my both of my younger cousins! We actually got Shawna into a photo!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaSkYuP2m602qMnkCAW9XW_E79g-OOtPQA4jMi2oEjveX4EEi21hSMqj5Whh9RdmWwLAzQ7SBilNNNVGAr5px3_KMIKiIWFHlZO3lRz0CLCIbLL1wmy9A-9fGdbmGShzoeLUHPjGoR61o/s1600/8+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaSkYuP2m602qMnkCAW9XW_E79g-OOtPQA4jMi2oEjveX4EEi21hSMqj5Whh9RdmWwLAzQ7SBilNNNVGAr5px3_KMIKiIWFHlZO3lRz0CLCIbLL1wmy9A-9fGdbmGShzoeLUHPjGoR61o/s1600/8+WM.jpg" height="614" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It would've been unfortunate to miss the chance to strike tree pose in front of one of these giant beauties!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPWPy-ZxX3IZLBO5KmGvayuqt8TKj8HiUa42f11g3I39D2-D8x0CDZomQl1LCPLxC7RN6g6OD1TOPNM3l2aU8D_3R-38M1h3n9v5e6vJ2md_ogXFZzk4Yhf7ALVzGdHMifv2FXAFjK0xA/s1600/7+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPWPy-ZxX3IZLBO5KmGvayuqt8TKj8HiUa42f11g3I39D2-D8x0CDZomQl1LCPLxC7RN6g6OD1TOPNM3l2aU8D_3R-38M1h3n9v5e6vJ2md_ogXFZzk4Yhf7ALVzGdHMifv2FXAFjK0xA/s1600/7+WM.jpg" height="640" width="544" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Also, I had to show them some love! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Tree hugging is awesome!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is a video made my cousin, Emily!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/6YqV0o6usoc?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for stopping by to read, and look at the photos. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The most important thing I can tell you is to learn about others instead of judging them!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-84551892320664240872014-07-28T12:45:00.000-07:002014-07-28T12:45:22.263-07:00Creativity Blog Hop<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Monday, All!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have been asked to take part in a creativity blog hop by Danielle from <a href="http://byddhines.com/" target="_blank">By DD Hines</a>. This is my first blog hop participation, and it is so much fun!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am mainly going to focus on my creativity process. For me it is less of a process, and more of chaos. New ideas seem to always hit me very late at night, and when my to-do list is crazy long!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I find inspiration in everything. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I see something that I like, and my first thought is "Can I crochet that?".</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Recently, I have learned to knit, sew, and cross stitch as well. Which means my mind is constantly racing with ideas. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>My thought process:</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Which projects can I combine sewing and crochet/knit?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX1vMv89Cm0962jcpTBsvHRGKgNmj-ooksfQDoP75HFzTyi6gJWjaONUzz4kaV0YsYynGmbJahA7OxhlYa39WgvABjtO7Sn6yil5CZtNXmSkWDE8liQHRrHC1YChz6Q-tC8jIb2wQDod0/s1600/2WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX1vMv89Cm0962jcpTBsvHRGKgNmj-ooksfQDoP75HFzTyi6gJWjaONUzz4kaV0YsYynGmbJahA7OxhlYa39WgvABjtO7Sn6yil5CZtNXmSkWDE8liQHRrHC1YChz6Q-tC8jIb2wQDod0/s1600/2WM.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This <a href="http://chirpinbirdiesews.blogspot.com/2014/07/crochet-hook-book.html" target="_blank">crochet hook book</a> is just the first project I did combining sewing and crochet!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What song lyrics do I want to cross stitch first? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgprPg3ZxYVyYmsccivvodFBepu9DE8eK2vqBZT6lkag3jq7TYUxptlHJy-Cv-sJ4cOQHlsZgN8QFlQcD2HppJ1Y7ci4amOuPJhS-iBkJXbj9wa4wAbWDL_9hDAuzYHgxLVlmJAgk4mm6s/s1600/IMG_20140723_161847_wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgprPg3ZxYVyYmsccivvodFBepu9DE8eK2vqBZT6lkag3jq7TYUxptlHJy-Cv-sJ4cOQHlsZgN8QFlQcD2HppJ1Y7ci4amOuPJhS-iBkJXbj9wa4wAbWDL_9hDAuzYHgxLVlmJAgk4mm6s/s1600/IMG_20140723_161847_wm.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is my first cross stitch project for a saying - it has not been revealed yet what it will say.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That is my little secret for now!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What are my responsibilities tomorrow? Because that tells me how much sleep I need to get tonight.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Similarly, how much coffee will I be able to drink tomorrow?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Whose birthday is coming up? What can I make them?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My friends and family only receive handmade gifts these days. Those are the best kind of gifts, right?!?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Have I heard anything about a new cancer patient that I can contact directly and make them a custom beanie?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am working on another crochet softie gift for a friend of friend whose cancer came back. I already sent her a Boston Red Sox beanie, and she loves it! I can't share photos of the new gift yet though, so you'll have to check back later!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It seems that my to-do list is always growing, and never shrinks. I mark one thing off, and three more ideas are added. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>What I'm working on now:</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Currently I have multiple headbands, beanies, brooches, and hair clips that I need to get done. I also have a queen size crochet blanket, a full size graph blanket, a throw blanket, and a cushion cover that are at the top of my to-do list.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYKi63IHxUtdKXBSFf8oCyaliQM6GOmA_9V00AVfxHQ-ClxLBA-VpotVW3LFu0ptIuxAfif_Xn7xpGFzBtfVEeRlhdntf6URf0sIW02Z9DDy9Z0RW6KNyvAi4tmPxBuCxnD0x0RzCES3c/s1600/IMG_20140715_121112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYKi63IHxUtdKXBSFf8oCyaliQM6GOmA_9V00AVfxHQ-ClxLBA-VpotVW3LFu0ptIuxAfif_Xn7xpGFzBtfVEeRlhdntf6URf0sIW02Z9DDy9Z0RW6KNyvAi4tmPxBuCxnD0x0RzCES3c/s1600/IMG_20140715_121112.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is the queen-size blanket that I am currently working on. I've been working on it for months; between getting distracted, and running out of yarn multiple times - it has take three times the amount of yarn that I thought it would.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinNHbztFD2yNMWPg_mMD9R9MjmBCWRpZb8IEzzSIiiOSBU3-44vnn0CoRs3-OJvMz-g25AAoGHVo8M2oR-6r2dqwZj1HNpwU2sOh3zYQzAM-WMXGEhNshMeDko4qNPIfX_MhQDNcd5ed8/s1600/IMG_20140724_120831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinNHbztFD2yNMWPg_mMD9R9MjmBCWRpZb8IEzzSIiiOSBU3-44vnn0CoRs3-OJvMz-g25AAoGHVo8M2oR-6r2dqwZj1HNpwU2sOh3zYQzAM-WMXGEhNshMeDko4qNPIfX_MhQDNcd5ed8/s1600/IMG_20140724_120831.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I started this random granny stripe throw last week, and it should be finished by the end of this week.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6B5A1rY8Arp7KMhzrzptUOa2FBCII6o_lImdKGt2mhnZGy9OEhFf_qdZW92iLw4kf37Igohywp_afs35wuTD8ykQ2BfdCizhsXnPvnyvbEdsZVZwG9TCnm1qBohsUI6Tndm7msg09OGg/s1600/IMG_20140710_120354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6B5A1rY8Arp7KMhzrzptUOa2FBCII6o_lImdKGt2mhnZGy9OEhFf_qdZW92iLw4kf37Igohywp_afs35wuTD8ykQ2BfdCizhsXnPvnyvbEdsZVZwG9TCnm1qBohsUI6Tndm7msg09OGg/s1600/IMG_20140710_120354.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I also have a shawl pattern that is currently out being tested, and I am polishing the wording before I get it published.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This shawl pattern should be released within the next two weeks.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Last night as I finished this scarf, I got the idea for two different scarves that I need to test out.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYL8d-BdESnlH0IM6G5fzc7D-Yf-HO-gUR51UGyDaDJhcWTRnOV7p6M86T1_Tq0BGMcWoYw1pkTjEN1QKxl5xZrHnXCnfR5IabHqYGZUjz7MEjzmBW1NXIRqZhrws0z5ug6Rvkmq0Zp3E/s1600/20140728_123129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYL8d-BdESnlH0IM6G5fzc7D-Yf-HO-gUR51UGyDaDJhcWTRnOV7p6M86T1_Tq0BGMcWoYw1pkTjEN1QKxl5xZrHnXCnfR5IabHqYGZUjz7MEjzmBW1NXIRqZhrws0z5ug6Rvkmq0Zp3E/s1600/20140728_123129.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hopefully, at least one of my ideas for a new scarf will come out the way I am picturing it in my head!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">My biggest piece of advice for anyone that crochets or knits:</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Use patterns as guidelines. Make changes to suit what you want! That is the best part about handmade, you can customize to fit your likes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For example, I never use magic circles to start out projects - I only use the ch2 method.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I also never use double crochet for beanies. I prefer the look of using hdc. So even if there is patter I really like that uses dc, I am changing it. These are just small basic changes, but the changes you can make are endless! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You are spending the time to make the item anyways, so you might as well make it your own!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-32043740510386787812014-07-18T15:41:00.002-07:002014-07-18T15:42:13.691-07:00Crochet Hook BookHello all!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I hope this post finds you well!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Today I finished the project I started earlier this week - a crochet hook case made with a mix of crochet and sewing.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I could not be happier with the way it came out! Well, maybe I could be a little happier, since the day I sewed the fabric, I was unable to sew in a straight line...but anyways...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSrm99Z1srQp-wWBekQ_PfnRSWL_QEz-OTe8wG_VFrzgZhAQZoYgUHBQi00ARzimv45-ZE7WXyOofP5cibFQwP0R6JTYIBzqqzHMndd4q0z_ndRkxveVTj-4bxpL-q9bdtAlTL4BTLbBvt/s1600/1WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSrm99Z1srQp-wWBekQ_PfnRSWL_QEz-OTe8wG_VFrzgZhAQZoYgUHBQi00ARzimv45-ZE7WXyOofP5cibFQwP0R6JTYIBzqqzHMndd4q0z_ndRkxveVTj-4bxpL-q9bdtAlTL4BTLbBvt/s1600/1WM.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The outside is just a simple crochet rectangle. I crocheted a nice texture pattern, just to make it that much prettier.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbY8GSnY74j804Q9UqkkVawtvueuQKyL4jIbkx_I59lX8Plv6r-gYTPPQzW5uW_Affrv98PBXl9VTewgN81OkUg-ngtC15pRUAcZl9wvterU2LWmSAlTyJUBK9f8kgDBWWTDN0fhiFyhJy/s1600/2WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbY8GSnY74j804Q9UqkkVawtvueuQKyL4jIbkx_I59lX8Plv6r-gYTPPQzW5uW_Affrv98PBXl9VTewgN81OkUg-ngtC15pRUAcZl9wvterU2LWmSAlTyJUBK9f8kgDBWWTDN0fhiFyhJy/s1600/2WM.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The inside is where it gets a little messy. But hey, I just started sewing, and am still very proud of how far my sewing has come in such a short time!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I made a simple fabric rectangle, with a simple pocket; then I sewed (what were supposed to be straight) seams to hold the hooks and a pair of scissors.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxF_XVrewZy1IlbID8F5ftZJ7Uxf1QgDOzs17wkAxunsBN9ozuSEXPeOAOeYH6_oAinHrDBHfwrG9Y6yOTLFOrUsijEsewqAL_iioPncjf7nGD9VQlAyZwHrfC2Mg8V1YmeA_s7a8CNM5K/s1600/3WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxF_XVrewZy1IlbID8F5ftZJ7Uxf1QgDOzs17wkAxunsBN9ozuSEXPeOAOeYH6_oAinHrDBHfwrG9Y6yOTLFOrUsijEsewqAL_iioPncjf7nGD9VQlAyZwHrfC2Mg8V1YmeA_s7a8CNM5K/s1600/3WM.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Then it was just a matter of attaching the crochet rectangle to the fabric rectangle.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For this, I decided to use embroidery thread and stitch around the fabric and through the bars of the single crochet border.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I made this as a present, but I cannot tell you who is going to be receiving it in the mail, since they might read this post before it's delivered.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am going to have to make one for myself too, because I am in love!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you want to order one, please email me, and I will be more than happy to make one for you!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Remember to subscribe to this blog, through the link on the <a href="http://chirpinbirdie.blogspot.com/">main page</a> of this blog.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-40051109274832521922014-07-16T14:10:00.000-07:002014-07-16T14:10:14.671-07:00First Knit ProjectHello all!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, as you know, I have recently learned how to knit. I have completely falling in love with knitting. This new addiction has doubled my amount of WIPs. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This post is about the first knit project I actually completed!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I had started projects before this, some of which still are not finished, and I have started/finished projects since completing this shawl. But, this shawl will always be special to me because it is the first project that I completed!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I used two skeins of Caron Simply Soft in Gray Heather to complete this shawl. If I knit a second shawl with this pattern, I will use more than two skeins, and make it a bit longer.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRUJhFocO32GiEUYBYn7rYE14aexI6VlMc1OfvQHnnT6DjdtZmIAwSuALBkurc5afIA2PRDeu2mS8dvKyaborsdQos_2r9yPloLqq1FRXIJBP1i3yxYQhXZShbeCQR7lnppMdD_InkMKsg/s1600/IMG_20140606_163330_wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRUJhFocO32GiEUYBYn7rYE14aexI6VlMc1OfvQHnnT6DjdtZmIAwSuALBkurc5afIA2PRDeu2mS8dvKyaborsdQos_2r9yPloLqq1FRXIJBP1i3yxYQhXZShbeCQR7lnppMdD_InkMKsg/s1600/IMG_20140606_163330_wm.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I started this shawl at one of my knitting lessons. My wonderful teacher, Elyce, brought out a book that published this Vine-Stitch Shawl pattern.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNejThf7kx7Tu9KwL0zKguC3rVXQhNb3uTLvCZpAGYMQdulcmXn6Y7u0tiwktPsvqgojRa6gfwjOX6HR0cCeVb1fQJqDqrnk9kfmTT0lChyf1GPadDSinI8X9Q0LEdhamgBYruh_Ww0sa2/s1600/IMG_20140608_181132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNejThf7kx7Tu9KwL0zKguC3rVXQhNb3uTLvCZpAGYMQdulcmXn6Y7u0tiwktPsvqgojRa6gfwjOX6HR0cCeVb1fQJqDqrnk9kfmTT0lChyf1GPadDSinI8X9Q0LEdhamgBYruh_Ww0sa2/s1600/IMG_20140608_181132.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I immediately fell in love with the pattern!</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWbL0nZSKAOhX741gCUMCaHM9PosIF7ETbnUYdoatAYmV47p4SLPJ-v68xnZcrcdZT3oiHQhgrpMegbuvrBHuOcBqUA1_9lNHIytbP4ldvNCDcWYhh_R7_bH59aVA58it4YEWy0EhP-vu2/s1600/IMG_20140609_134420.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWbL0nZSKAOhX741gCUMCaHM9PosIF7ETbnUYdoatAYmV47p4SLPJ-v68xnZcrcdZT3oiHQhgrpMegbuvrBHuOcBqUA1_9lNHIytbP4ldvNCDcWYhh_R7_bH59aVA58it4YEWy0EhP-vu2/s1600/IMG_20140609_134420.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After all, I wanted to learn to knit, so that I could make some more lacy items. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I also want to cable-knit, and learn to knit socks, but that will come later.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Cggnz1Mtkfq0kKVJbKs6nGwEMeb1NErBkAeBcP-DR3hExtgjyIz5nB30S7FOHnetwWcQ4yDfepSFHpjmR6VOuvUGCUXpy1A15eDVspVf3kZWD7Uni2IT1SOcd1W-Z5DGA5r2NiB83U2L/s1600/IMG_20140616_113921.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Cggnz1Mtkfq0kKVJbKs6nGwEMeb1NErBkAeBcP-DR3hExtgjyIz5nB30S7FOHnetwWcQ4yDfepSFHpjmR6VOuvUGCUXpy1A15eDVspVf3kZWD7Uni2IT1SOcd1W-Z5DGA5r2NiB83U2L/s1600/IMG_20140616_113921.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Watching this shawl work up was really fun!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I still cannot believe that I know how to knit!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSU6LknQPW9UZOEyr9TkKKW7Mot2u2oqeMyEFSC_UH66TUmDajZKNQvuoAYQ-kV6dU-iUCj4hGM-TDBqbiZRBz7dZcLkcY7oOl9lhk9CR8piv-7Z3JDoWpbVHEZRhVt5ltW_FSz9SbuWU2/s1600/IMG_20140619_204408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSU6LknQPW9UZOEyr9TkKKW7Mot2u2oqeMyEFSC_UH66TUmDajZKNQvuoAYQ-kV6dU-iUCj4hGM-TDBqbiZRBz7dZcLkcY7oOl9lhk9CR8piv-7Z3JDoWpbVHEZRhVt5ltW_FSz9SbuWU2/s1600/IMG_20140619_204408.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This shawl has its fair share of mistakes, but luckily, they are not too noticeable.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ghBIija0tq3k7aIyxOZnS6zN4Kk7q5a0kxg2qUgOq6FYBNaYpf4uAjCqy8db9R35HqHFga8VwUVOKT2HLw0zC-1f9fSQrhNM_Ohdue1osIX30EgiJFm-2ZquLv8a93INktR-1yoVERdg/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ghBIija0tq3k7aIyxOZnS6zN4Kk7q5a0kxg2qUgOq6FYBNaYpf4uAjCqy8db9R35HqHFga8VwUVOKT2HLw0zC-1f9fSQrhNM_Ohdue1osIX30EgiJFm-2ZquLv8a93INktR-1yoVERdg/s1600/1.jpg" height="400" width="246" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I gifted the shawl to my Grandma, and she was very thankful.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She said, "I can't wait to wear it to church, because I always sit under the window and get cold."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After her first church service wearing this shawl, she made sure to tell me that she received lots of comments, and compliments, about it. She also made sure to tell people that her granddaughter knit it for her.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thanks for stopping by! Come back soon!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Subscribe to this blog on the <a href="http://chirpinbirdie.blogspot.com/">ChirpinBirdie main page</a>, so you can keep up with all of my new projects, and new patterns!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-90040414848878361992014-07-15T15:38:00.000-07:002014-07-15T17:08:48.933-07:00The Elyce Knit CowlHello!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am pretty excited about this pattern!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For the reason that, it is my first knit pattern.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have named it after my knitting teacher, Elyce. I will never be able to thank her enough for teaching me how to knit. She is a fabulous teacher, and has also become a great friend.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGZqqoU4dfcyRMtR-puZcWEzjE0knbqALfjnJt8NdQTmTcnnQ83ECVt88J2nmqajfJ2n4IYGTpac-vE0NVKwuzdWKd-IzCNxwOG4tJMGzHBsAN_lPLnfoPHmHh22iwc2UPbwpYTWLnQvoV/s1600/2+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGZqqoU4dfcyRMtR-puZcWEzjE0knbqALfjnJt8NdQTmTcnnQ83ECVt88J2nmqajfJ2n4IYGTpac-vE0NVKwuzdWKd-IzCNxwOG4tJMGzHBsAN_lPLnfoPHmHh22iwc2UPbwpYTWLnQvoV/s1600/2+WM.jpg" height="400" width="307" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is the first Elyce cowl I knit.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Since it turned out to be a bit too snug for an adult, I just said it is child size. Then had my adorable little cousin, Poppy, model it for me.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was interested in what the Elyce cowl would look like, if I made it with two different colors - not to mention I had to make an adult size version.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That's when this beauty came to be! It is by far, one of the favorite items I have made so far.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2rHdimUyQpUKdmQsHx_1Go0pT2pBxRppoeCNke0TPW32Xzyg0_HRDFqcBRq__3BUV0-QYc6QXRbsrJwTbaJHwxajkoCmw0ziClldrTYgUjW1npz24lfYiR_oWkZZvDcUkD6EImJLKSLD4/s1600/3+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2rHdimUyQpUKdmQsHx_1Go0pT2pBxRppoeCNke0TPW32Xzyg0_HRDFqcBRq__3BUV0-QYc6QXRbsrJwTbaJHwxajkoCmw0ziClldrTYgUjW1npz24lfYiR_oWkZZvDcUkD6EImJLKSLD4/s1600/3+WM.jpg" height="373" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am lucky to come from such a good looking family - and that they are willing to model my handmade items.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My model/cousin, Alisa, will need this cowl too, when she goes back to college in Wisconsin this Fall.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibIRQgTYVLcfbsw6Ef3gRxCcq1VPG3c4U_REtYStjHS50cy-QlTSOI2z51ttOAW0PNoxcUY9nIwcxySqgkclgENw9_lD6lgnhS_NHB8iSmwy8RS3M23y7Htoo8mH5XxtECPMSj4cUZo8uY/s1600/1+WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibIRQgTYVLcfbsw6Ef3gRxCcq1VPG3c4U_REtYStjHS50cy-QlTSOI2z51ttOAW0PNoxcUY9nIwcxySqgkclgENw9_lD6lgnhS_NHB8iSmwy8RS3M23y7Htoo8mH5XxtECPMSj4cUZo8uY/s1600/1+WM.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here you can see more of the detail.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is seriously a super easy pattern, and delivers such an awesome look!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz4zrIQcE16YebQ7o5CRVwKQXwwPBo7ZgRZE3dfNx13rpfVfraaObfgUzf9shJT5A0JunrB_SWxInBFgyRLQXo-KoP0MHdrAZu2G8ZD73TXxyZ0zZRoHnn4uSqjeEL1qvixuze6fGGZH0k/s1600/5WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz4zrIQcE16YebQ7o5CRVwKQXwwPBo7ZgRZE3dfNx13rpfVfraaObfgUzf9shJT5A0JunrB_SWxInBFgyRLQXo-KoP0MHdrAZu2G8ZD73TXxyZ0zZRoHnn4uSqjeEL1qvixuze6fGGZH0k/s1600/5WM.jpg" height="400" width="318" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I even made one for myself with yarn I received for my birthday.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you want to make your own Elyce cowl, you can get the pattern <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/195598222/the-elyce-knit-cowl-pattern">here</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you want me to make an Elyce cowl for you, then click <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/195597916/elyce-knit-cowl?ref=listing-shop-header-1">here</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Stay tuned for more patterns - coming soon!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Don't forget to subscribe to the ChirpinBirdie blog, so you get the news, and new patterns first!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-56616871794702131492014-07-14T13:49:00.001-07:002014-07-14T14:11:10.166-07:00ChirpinBirdie Sews: Kindle CoversHello all!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have wanted to learn how to sew for probably 20 years now, and considering I am 27 years old, that is a huge majority of my life! I have been scared of sewing machines, and have had unsuccessful attempts at learning how to sew several times throughout the years. But, the urge to learn never went away. So, a few weeks ago, I rounded up some old text books that I never look at anymore, and traded them in on Amazon. Then with the gift card they gave me I bought myself a little sewing machine! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am so excited about learning a new skill! The first thing that I wanted to learn to make was a cover for my Kindle paper white - which is my most favorite piece of technology that I own!</div>
<br />
I found <a href="http://blissfulsewing.blogspot.com/2013/04/e-reader-cover-sewing-pattern-kindle.html#.U8Q-gvldWSq">this tutorial</a> very helpful! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1hp2a3VV1oh-ucMPla3Em7FVuXCeNcdBaBV1rsLBG6CQB72VwgtUd479wg4FjxBkma_HEkSx1qKbKh0c8rVDxqLpSBUsXsw9idSx-icj2PJRQAfwn2VUrzP1FO1QOLtPrLq_mxeysNgXG/s1600/4WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1hp2a3VV1oh-ucMPla3Em7FVuXCeNcdBaBV1rsLBG6CQB72VwgtUd479wg4FjxBkma_HEkSx1qKbKh0c8rVDxqLpSBUsXsw9idSx-icj2PJRQAfwn2VUrzP1FO1QOLtPrLq_mxeysNgXG/s1600/4WM.jpg" height="353" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This cover is my first successful attempt.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZZnNgCCzSZVKVr33syj-ifCA1h3lrRysP5R_v6Ev_1wK0YrI_YSsRCskLd3VKLqMD9ZrltFsqMJBKdhYl4DnQwh07gWzXkjFKfuyjIeOA8Aquak3X5IP8EdeKl5ppGSbprOC9Gfi_6oQe/s1600/5WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZZnNgCCzSZVKVr33syj-ifCA1h3lrRysP5R_v6Ev_1wK0YrI_YSsRCskLd3VKLqMD9ZrltFsqMJBKdhYl4DnQwh07gWzXkjFKfuyjIeOA8Aquak3X5IP8EdeKl5ppGSbprOC9Gfi_6oQe/s1600/5WM.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I do love the way it came out, but I was just practicing with this fabric.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ixzIKqXzEABpg8zhiJ4GizkN-UrfYlgYUqbulmr_UiBAYhIYTZXymmKbyfgFRxmwTnR9CuyyZlYT_qFG_NGp7peO5h-Cf556jCEQ24lyhbDreUZC9ihmEkZVxouTmQG74nydrJOqcXEJ/s1600/6WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8ixzIKqXzEABpg8zhiJ4GizkN-UrfYlgYUqbulmr_UiBAYhIYTZXymmKbyfgFRxmwTnR9CuyyZlYT_qFG_NGp7peO5h-Cf556jCEQ24lyhbDreUZC9ihmEkZVxouTmQG74nydrJOqcXEJ/s1600/6WM.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It is so fun to make things with fabric! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But again, I was just practicing, so I would fell more comfortable when sewing with the gorgeous fabric I picked out for my cover.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is the cover that I sewed for myself!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc8vIp8a4_UiWPNnEqE7NFr23ypHTszg8-akq9-rYSO8VHBIiM-lVl4HItYiG49zh0LEQ4bZeNuevGp3-LcVkUKTOn0JlcRQL2GzUmeRHK5zHwhmuPOUpop3rizB1SSEuZ-yJ9pQtCO_BT/s1600/1WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc8vIp8a4_UiWPNnEqE7NFr23ypHTszg8-akq9-rYSO8VHBIiM-lVl4HItYiG49zh0LEQ4bZeNuevGp3-LcVkUKTOn0JlcRQL2GzUmeRHK5zHwhmuPOUpop3rizB1SSEuZ-yJ9pQtCO_BT/s1600/1WM.jpg" height="336" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I absolutely love this fabric!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjWVDPQnNdgTcPH4nWBhyphenhypheniLZh7jKXMhWBAYvQE4WSL-9bPq6on1SF8l_XGDKKdPIV1n5cxHA7wE31xhVxthLMuxqdneDUdcVczFkLfe6LntSENQeXUK11_2qjHDHUxbVgX46aPWOZRNU3P/s1600/2WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjWVDPQnNdgTcPH4nWBhyphenhypheniLZh7jKXMhWBAYvQE4WSL-9bPq6on1SF8l_XGDKKdPIV1n5cxHA7wE31xhVxthLMuxqdneDUdcVczFkLfe6LntSENQeXUK11_2qjHDHUxbVgX46aPWOZRNU3P/s1600/2WM.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've always loved reading on my paper white, and now it is even more enjoyable!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For my own cover, I opted not to add a pocket.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4cLKKPaOQRslIpX08cgHhRHMZwINdVMx2VD4LTAv8Bas5fpQzHyFyjW4lJHLt4Uk4cEPJXcLTu2geFIc40OPHrAMEQ5DEr2p2JBDzouelqYEVrQOyIJavRrOt0zySut7slMeeKLulCByx/s1600/3WM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4cLKKPaOQRslIpX08cgHhRHMZwINdVMx2VD4LTAv8Bas5fpQzHyFyjW4lJHLt4Uk4cEPJXcLTu2geFIc40OPHrAMEQ5DEr2p2JBDzouelqYEVrQOyIJavRrOt0zySut7slMeeKLulCByx/s1600/3WM.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am very proud of how far my sewing has come in the last couple weeks.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Believe me, my first few attempts were terrible!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Stay tuned for future sewing projects! I am currently working on a gift, mixing crochet and sewing. I am excited, and hopeful that it is turn out neatly!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Don't forget to follow my blog, so you get the updates as they happen!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-46546774455009224512014-05-28T10:53:00.003-07:002014-05-28T10:53:32.871-07:00Learning to Knit...Finally<div style="text-align: center;">
So, it has finally happened - I have learned to knit! Well, I guess I should say that I am learning to knit.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My wonderful neighbor offered to teach me, and it has been so much fun! I have gone over for two lessons so far, and have learned more already, than I ever thought I would know.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She suggested that I practice different stitches and patterns by making little squares, and using them to make a blanket. So, that is exactly what I am doing! She showed me the blanket with her swatches, and it is so lovely, that I had to follow suit. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She is letting me borrow her favorite <strike>book</strike>, errr calendar, that has 365 different stitches and patterns. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq9VUE2HTdlhRFvJl8AK1HYoz4lL84frOwasbo2RJnX5AiFdLJzaZ158gmQl0iKlYdH1UdDWhe9hg_xsLTBRaJ-WFphINq83TqwRkqF2N5BWouoAiCLshdDypTLWJcndKm2ErBBIJpOG0/s1600/61NQCMG256L._SX258_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq9VUE2HTdlhRFvJl8AK1HYoz4lL84frOwasbo2RJnX5AiFdLJzaZ158gmQl0iKlYdH1UdDWhe9hg_xsLTBRaJ-WFphINq83TqwRkqF2N5BWouoAiCLshdDypTLWJcndKm2ErBBIJpOG0/s1600/61NQCMG256L._SX258_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/365-Knitting-Stitches-Year-Perpetual/dp/1564774325/ref=cm_cr_pr_pb_t" target="_blank">365 Knitting Stitches a Year</a> is a fabulous resource. I have learned so much, and it is fun to actually make little swatches, and feel like you are actually making an item.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw27KCisNX9rTotnMrbnDaMif3BF2pY-lgLJF-qsxJbMqdbd3ZC3Od6hmCHvOE1fSg8QjIBqUZ-X2RyS24el1GIDv8C5CPNgJQv4K1W-3ipcQ5Fk43EHX1xi3aJWutvtId170zpyJQ3_E/s1600/IMG_20140505_095532.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw27KCisNX9rTotnMrbnDaMif3BF2pY-lgLJF-qsxJbMqdbd3ZC3Od6hmCHvOE1fSg8QjIBqUZ-X2RyS24el1GIDv8C5CPNgJQv4K1W-3ipcQ5Fk43EHX1xi3aJWutvtId170zpyJQ3_E/s1600/IMG_20140505_095532.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These are my first three squares.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The purple square is garter stitch.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The orange square was supposed to be plain stockinette, but I got turned around after 5 rows, so I went with it and made that. One thing that I have had to comes to terms with, is that my knitting will not be as nice as my crochet - at least, not yet.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The blue is seed stitch.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh50-puPKn2fgOwDe5nouPx3ce2D8UrSfG3zV66YgNMXbdzaRmRvF4eSHmlaONljDw2XwihscGLD4DUVEqj3Dyfc9Fz0XorePwYBcORwPgwSSOD9zqW0-HtdqmXrIDgPa8mH3iUQ5aG62k/s1600/IMG_20140523_095936.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh50-puPKn2fgOwDe5nouPx3ce2D8UrSfG3zV66YgNMXbdzaRmRvF4eSHmlaONljDw2XwihscGLD4DUVEqj3Dyfc9Fz0XorePwYBcORwPgwSSOD9zqW0-HtdqmXrIDgPa8mH3iUQ5aG62k/s1600/IMG_20140523_095936.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My wonderful neighbor is not only teaching me to knit, she is also spoiling me with wonderful goodies!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When I arrived for my second lesson, she brought out these gifts she bought special for me - I almost cried!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFRBmvwAPoj_MG-uSe5dR_ZF7BnDkQf4zz6API5GZp4dFvPxO2Cv5gxRxeixHrRzIvQ8Hv7ilv0bQ4rO78jaZcANvq5aA5P1aKUDj7ZHFGq0pmXeAfCOIMEr8uSOOyD4Iw0ES8fuO9Tr4/s1600/IMG_20140523_101346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFRBmvwAPoj_MG-uSe5dR_ZF7BnDkQf4zz6API5GZp4dFvPxO2Cv5gxRxeixHrRzIvQ8Hv7ilv0bQ4rO78jaZcANvq5aA5P1aKUDj7ZHFGq0pmXeAfCOIMEr8uSOOyD4Iw0ES8fuO9Tr4/s1600/IMG_20140523_101346.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In my second lesson, I learned to knit eyelets, which turned out to be much easier than I anticipated.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju-HiL7_4u5dlfYGPHSxOi8106Er9XKDd4OEOoy8Srv0-YY7GgYqblhgAvfYGFdxc3ctcBqDSwMlDLmKrSShjN2KuTQZSPj1r6FCXnSR9A1RrKpRB81lalrq-mDoKpZnlkiq3NVZSu4sc/s1600/IMG_20140524_162518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju-HiL7_4u5dlfYGPHSxOi8106Er9XKDd4OEOoy8Srv0-YY7GgYqblhgAvfYGFdxc3ctcBqDSwMlDLmKrSShjN2KuTQZSPj1r6FCXnSR9A1RrKpRB81lalrq-mDoKpZnlkiq3NVZSu4sc/s1600/IMG_20140524_162518.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Oh, and this is the start of my first real knit blanket! I am making squares with this subtle chevron pattern, and I will definitely be making a post about it once it is completed. Of course, if you want to follow the progress in real time, you can follow me on <a href="http://instagram.com/chirpinbirdie" target="_blank">Instagram</a>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That's it for now, but I will continue updating as I make for squares.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am about to start a feather chevron swatch right now.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Best Wishes,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Alison</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-25521187362925379392014-05-11T13:00:00.000-07:002014-05-11T13:00:01.696-07:00Brynlee's Baby BlanketHello everyone!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
If you follow me on Instagram, then you have seen a few black and white photos on my feed in the past couple weeks. If you don't follow me on Instagram - well shame on you! - you should click <a href="http://instagram.com/chirpinbirdie" target="_blank">here</a> and start following the fun! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It is finally time to reveal the colors of the baby blanket that I had to post in black and white! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
FYI - I had to post in B&W because I didn't want to ruin the surprise for the mommy-to-be, but I will be at the baby shower when this post is scheduled to go live. So, no more worrying about ruining the surprise.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg80YwfOGZuahlB9R_B5NlkHSUIaxOy85al5KN9IfIaZqgw0DrcsvEHHHyEiGPz_CaQ-j4zaakWkugd2FZQF4Y-w8cEd7zkEypFZR75SHdKs7aSDeVQkz22jWaTFqLaZG_0Zj6UhBIyULE/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg80YwfOGZuahlB9R_B5NlkHSUIaxOy85al5KN9IfIaZqgw0DrcsvEHHHyEiGPz_CaQ-j4zaakWkugd2FZQF4Y-w8cEd7zkEypFZR75SHdKs7aSDeVQkz22jWaTFqLaZG_0Zj6UhBIyULE/s1600/1.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I thought about so many different patterns to crochet for this baby blanket.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIDBbZMqsrmOhbhRy3FmqS60eWUj4UQp8-cofNkpi4D8tnpfPTMZcd1PejBxm3xxxysN3ImgzBLL-ewqRLf2Qzu7yPAu8En_w689lcJgGhoi7IYRIjmqnwHUVqFab39CAaEzVkSdV6MAQ/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIDBbZMqsrmOhbhRy3FmqS60eWUj4UQp8-cofNkpi4D8tnpfPTMZcd1PejBxm3xxxysN3ImgzBLL-ewqRLf2Qzu7yPAu8En_w689lcJgGhoi7IYRIjmqnwHUVqFab39CAaEzVkSdV6MAQ/s1600/2.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was set on the colors I wanted to use - Brynlee's nursery is peacock theme, so this was my way of going with that, without being to matchy-matchy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggu0NO0kMTAaS88iHeozg_j2l-3iy5QtJIbudsJeVghb_hyphenhyphendJ6H9JIMO7G4Ob4uExJVCtVIMLWxayOiIZkjMiBrf6cOg2MVqjcgHASs5Q-PJ67s_-CJK-CPJ9Y5E5ghEB-w9AcAHYJgrs/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggu0NO0kMTAaS88iHeozg_j2l-3iy5QtJIbudsJeVghb_hyphenhyphendJ6H9JIMO7G4Ob4uExJVCtVIMLWxayOiIZkjMiBrf6cOg2MVqjcgHASs5Q-PJ67s_-CJK-CPJ9Y5E5ghEB-w9AcAHYJgrs/s1600/4.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The good old granny square seemed to be the perfect fit to show off how fun these colors are.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaAOy1j6tfzlswFr842XYOovYYUzlzdzfO-ekW7WoJPexynHThyPKqHrpANwASLAYO0uBZFbYu7ZfWBDoNh7wgFVauAGuvllOkpQ5wD0VlfmoeUyEbdkKlbcjdqT65URhmcL0YrYQAV6I/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaAOy1j6tfzlswFr842XYOovYYUzlzdzfO-ekW7WoJPexynHThyPKqHrpANwASLAYO0uBZFbYu7ZfWBDoNh7wgFVauAGuvllOkpQ5wD0VlfmoeUyEbdkKlbcjdqT65URhmcL0YrYQAV6I/s1600/3.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A simple scalloped edge seemed to be the perfect edging for this project.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6GrXTHluvk1QtalsckeInVSc8AJ1-yE_IVXWnMhVvYOGBc0SqrtQYMmyUV-107npDu2lsmGLeC2EMt9z0FsmWhJzHSLTIh1bGgmCPoguVZxIAvtWT0L7C2_2LQFQJmOGH0pAyJRLoweI/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6GrXTHluvk1QtalsckeInVSc8AJ1-yE_IVXWnMhVvYOGBc0SqrtQYMmyUV-107npDu2lsmGLeC2EMt9z0FsmWhJzHSLTIh1bGgmCPoguVZxIAvtWT0L7C2_2LQFQJmOGH0pAyJRLoweI/s1600/5.jpg" height="406" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am so in love with this blanket!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkb1wbVI_QGHzuKEyXj8uE_Z7fTSAj7irkAJcdfYmUpXrAysvTz29-GycoTTFyN6Re5b0avuyaAIkwbUrdsh8SJnahaNOdqrvqXpmSSXq_MFtaUnC-8WlViODNXJwF_KgSCyaeqhwdZU0/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkb1wbVI_QGHzuKEyXj8uE_Z7fTSAj7irkAJcdfYmUpXrAysvTz29-GycoTTFyN6Re5b0avuyaAIkwbUrdsh8SJnahaNOdqrvqXpmSSXq_MFtaUnC-8WlViODNXJwF_KgSCyaeqhwdZU0/s1600/6.jpg" height="614" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think my dear friend, Holly, will enjoy wrapping up little Brynlee with this granny square blanket.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thank you all for coming by to check out this baby blanket! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Enjoy your day!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-30341730429430466712014-04-27T13:26:00.001-07:002014-04-27T13:26:52.583-07:00Crochet Mood Blanket UpdateHello Everyone!<br />
<br />
I hope this post finds you well!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am finally updating on my Crochet Mood Blanket 2014! Wooooo! I still have a lot of catching up to do, but I did finally figure out what I am going to do with the blanket once it is finished.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am going to sell it, and donate the money to <a href="http://marleysmutts.com/" target="_blank">Marley's Mutts</a>! I found their rescue organization on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MarleysMuttsDogRescue" target="_blank">Facebook</a> a few weeks ago, and am blown away each and every day with their service to animals in need. Seriously, check out their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MarleysMuttsDogRescue" target="_blank">Facebook</a> page, and see for yourself how wonderful they are!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Since I am going to give the profits of this blanket sale to Marley's Mutts, I am going to use some of my Sunday Charity Crochet time to complete it. This benefits me too, because not having much time is the reason that I am so far behind with this blanket.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, here are a few update photos for your viewing pleasure, hahaha</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXMYNTsM_iBXpXL752Yl2Xb6ygO4TJlEwe2F6iAAhs8k4sNEtxyWBizFHOfGocnH6jbRAIKXoEtgUgf8zrzHLCIfkbNDkblNHCBFfXG3KlUsEs6I3ibt7dcRcrVZ_yU865OGD0_axMJDE/s1600/IMG_20140303_161345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXMYNTsM_iBXpXL752Yl2Xb6ygO4TJlEwe2F6iAAhs8k4sNEtxyWBizFHOfGocnH6jbRAIKXoEtgUgf8zrzHLCIfkbNDkblNHCBFfXG3KlUsEs6I3ibt7dcRcrVZ_yU865OGD0_axMJDE/s1600/IMG_20140303_161345.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love this photo! This <a href="http://priscillascrochet.net/free%20patterns/Afghan%20Squares/Fisherman%E2%80%99s%20Ring.pdf" target="_blank">Fisherman's Ring Crochet Square</a> from Priscilla Hewitt will always be one of my favorite crochet patterns.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicEJhKaj5OE5csdpghFlkuD1NYC9WSKy0N7aVBw5BgBwecpWAphL8zkhtJAViDkoR4x5lWKH2lpZqRScqwX7hApQh1hAa0_oG43q6QFgYtJjI0_fhEuq0y3RNXd6sZY3RFO_eEI3SeOhY/s1600/IMG_20140310_133055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicEJhKaj5OE5csdpghFlkuD1NYC9WSKy0N7aVBw5BgBwecpWAphL8zkhtJAViDkoR4x5lWKH2lpZqRScqwX7hApQh1hAa0_oG43q6QFgYtJjI0_fhEuq0y3RNXd6sZY3RFO_eEI3SeOhY/s1600/IMG_20140310_133055.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOnjpF12pnRQa_xVlOtim6hpgNMY2PiqaTPREy5xBpxBPbDQctKhHgmWxnfR4KC-bYDKysu7_nL2mX1YCs6S0HbrBWpfU5e8E_Gl8uABNoHHKVF4C-FBxeerWftx-W9ZHYNedHQu-8dNk/s1600/IMG_20140420_132649.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOnjpF12pnRQa_xVlOtim6hpgNMY2PiqaTPREy5xBpxBPbDQctKhHgmWxnfR4KC-bYDKysu7_nL2mX1YCs6S0HbrBWpfU5e8E_Gl8uABNoHHKVF4C-FBxeerWftx-W9ZHYNedHQu-8dNk/s1600/IMG_20140420_132649.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is the latest completed crochet square, and it just happens to be in one of my favorite purple yarns!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have 3-1/2 rows complete so far, so I still have a ways to go before the 10x10 blanket is complete.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Of course, I will be giving more updates - hopefully, it won't be so long until the next one - and I will definitely let you know when the blanket is ready! Maybe one of you fine viewers will love the blanket so much, that you will buy it, and help me help Marley's Mutts!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Best Wishes,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Alison</div>
<br />Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-23955501440630070412014-04-19T13:01:00.000-07:002014-04-19T13:01:01.591-07:00Crochet DreamcatherHappy Saturday!<br />
<br />
I hope this post finds you well.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I just want to start out by saying how much I love Pinterest! Yes, I am on Pinterest!!! You can find me by clicking <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/chirpinbirdie/" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
About a week or so ago, I found <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/255297872601094745/" target="_blank">this</a> crochet dreamcatcher, and it even clicked through to a lovely <a href="http://raumseelig.blogspot.ie/" target="_blank">blog</a>. The blog is in German, so google helped me out with reading it. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There was no tutorial for the center of the dreamcatcher, but I knew that I had to make one!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My mom loves Native American inspired decor, and Mother's Day (here in the USA) is coming up fast. I know this will make the perfect gift for my mama.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, I winged it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiezcxCLtuSGkngOW9jNP5q1Oq4WPsfqGoTk96KqCRCoaZPr6kFEe5xJBW3YHvWm_bNNarbHzkFGWg_urrz8PttuMpAUS4oDKUkxan0lYXMMr3oyjZJNX3HQpLQL6k6y3A8HZpNvrxRfyo/s1600/IMG_20140416_172634.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiezcxCLtuSGkngOW9jNP5q1Oq4WPsfqGoTk96KqCRCoaZPr6kFEe5xJBW3YHvWm_bNNarbHzkFGWg_urrz8PttuMpAUS4oDKUkxan0lYXMMr3oyjZJNX3HQpLQL6k6y3A8HZpNvrxRfyo/s1600/IMG_20140416_172634.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Of course, I started out with a crocodile-ish stitch flower.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCOZTHd64HsKe77_F0TWLNRoMFRHjclhBkD-2qcrol33ldN4xp2-aMCP8gE0u18R-uHQ5P6JskDAxy7FD7wh8LGJYSvc9c4kVYcxtCt78arwKhyXpS0iHez5ZeXF-8uRq3tPok5KK3J2w/s1600/IMG_20140417_110049_wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCOZTHd64HsKe77_F0TWLNRoMFRHjclhBkD-2qcrol33ldN4xp2-aMCP8gE0u18R-uHQ5P6JskDAxy7FD7wh8LGJYSvc9c4kVYcxtCt78arwKhyXpS0iHez5ZeXF-8uRq3tPok5KK3J2w/s1600/IMG_20140417_110049_wm.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Then I secured the flower to the wooden ring - I used the inside of an old embroidery ring that has been in my closet for over a year.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKSXRlhlBCxoJ7W4pyY6A8uVmsPleYzCQ74lvNC9jw4fItLtXe7rfvz55ilMGqeHtCefk3u1lz8D9d_O8IAz7WOOwob-AeE0YHRahJZ6BOuoU0p2PDGwCB63mALr4N0khw46XCw-RnRF0/s1600/2wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKSXRlhlBCxoJ7W4pyY6A8uVmsPleYzCQ74lvNC9jw4fItLtXe7rfvz55ilMGqeHtCefk3u1lz8D9d_O8IAz7WOOwob-AeE0YHRahJZ6BOuoU0p2PDGwCB63mALr4N0khw46XCw-RnRF0/s1600/2wm.jpg" height="600" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think the hardest part was wrapping the yarn around the ring, and trying to space out the dangly bits, properly. I am hoping that part will be easier next time, now that I have some knowledge of how to wrap the yarn easier.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw1j5q2BNd9EvpYnNyW-ItWACEJwiwxYYR5XT50qrkZ3JKp4QApM_ClpgI9cA2v96WNRvE5qJh_iKNoUGXnowXzKgoc-76n3FGFkrLky2P4fnLIfkO6RNXtEf9cWMyld18P6gKp20WvpY/s1600/1wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw1j5q2BNd9EvpYnNyW-ItWACEJwiwxYYR5XT50qrkZ3JKp4QApM_ClpgI9cA2v96WNRvE5qJh_iKNoUGXnowXzKgoc-76n3FGFkrLky2P4fnLIfkO6RNXtEf9cWMyld18P6gKp20WvpY/s1600/1wm.jpg" height="640" width="438" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's not perfect, but I love it!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I know my mama will love it too!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Best Wishes,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Alison</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-28004639683973655872014-04-14T15:46:00.002-07:002014-04-15T09:15:18.585-07:00Crochet Mandala ArtHello All!<br />
<br />
It has been so long since I have made a post - mostly because I am sooooo far behind on my crochet mood blanket!<br />
<br />
I have been wanting to crochet a mandala for quite a while, and Saturday, I finally made one! I used the the <a href="http://www.lizziebellablog.com/2014/04/08/spiky-mandala-tutorial/" target="_blank">Spiky Mandala Tutorial</a> from the Lizzie Bella blog. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-7X7Z2uI36R418U7g6nlvqgkynd2BWMMGz2KCPc5EtaknaGf4qqVrSQVk0NL0Vdb-yFtgk7vFrkgQ2MNRoV8uHkmTBH_3lbzbGVNg2QhBx2UObhsIRppthu-lfkZMmxR3-PkG96SAyMM/s1600/IMG_20140413_110646_wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-7X7Z2uI36R418U7g6nlvqgkynd2BWMMGz2KCPc5EtaknaGf4qqVrSQVk0NL0Vdb-yFtgk7vFrkgQ2MNRoV8uHkmTBH_3lbzbGVNg2QhBx2UObhsIRppthu-lfkZMmxR3-PkG96SAyMM/s1600/IMG_20140413_110646_wm.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I used Sugar and Cream cotton yarn - I don't know the exact colors because those labels fell off many moons ago. (This photo was taken before I blocked it.)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I didn't quite know what to do with it once it was finished. I knew I needed to block it, so that gave me some time to think about what I should do with this pretty mandala. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Suddenly I had this idea to frame it and use it as art!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqh6QMBroxVTPVbSwj_CzGg6eWgCGcAUI5CDSjdRqS0H45gMiT2Ztz5LS0Kxe9oxOiOMQ4d1pSBs3-ylRcINZ-ZW-gwCPkSARf44nu-SPnNuzxZ7Afx-C9CZxOBDlHsjL61E-RuwNAeio/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqh6QMBroxVTPVbSwj_CzGg6eWgCGcAUI5CDSjdRqS0H45gMiT2Ztz5LS0Kxe9oxOiOMQ4d1pSBs3-ylRcINZ-ZW-gwCPkSARf44nu-SPnNuzxZ7Afx-C9CZxOBDlHsjL61E-RuwNAeio/s1600/2.jpg" height="640" width="620" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had this frame with the crochet background already. I made it over a year ago to hold my crochet hair clips - that blog post can be found <a href="http://chirpinbirdie.blogspot.com/2012/10/hair-clip-organizer.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But, it was just sitting in my closet, on a shelf - not being appreciated by anyone.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So, after the mandala was blocked, I unpinned it and put in this frame - I immediately fell in love!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
All that was left to do was sew the mandala on to the gray background...and ta dah!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A new - and the only - piece of art hanging in our apartment.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I plan on making so many more of these! They will make great summer projects when it is too hot, to work on big projects.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So, look for them in my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/ChirpinBirdie?ref=si_shop" target="_blank">Etsy shop</a> soon! Or, you can always pre-order now, in custom colors, just shoot me an email!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Best Wishes,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Alison</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-72049318296534655542014-03-19T12:16:00.000-07:002014-03-19T12:16:32.798-07:00Favorite ProjectsHello Everyone!<br />
<br />
I know that it is Wednesday, and that I have not posted about my <a href="http://chirpinbirdie.blogspot.com/p/hello-i-have-finished-my-first-week-in.html" target="_blank">Crochet Mood Blanket</a> in a very long time. But, I am still not posting about it today....booooo! I am a couple weeks behind, unfortunately.<br />
<br />
I am here to tell you about another project that is FINALLY FINISHED!!!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQxsU2n78MPp-4l4KJm0Hr1XzXXYxNWgjsZjItuLizCYEEnH3qb19rwC4svDr4oYZRYOOtraVrzgrtdMRMm0Jg-cWzn9xk8V2SShNd1bqbYH-TibwE_hBle-t0v1NHwpv08k82dW9AEj0/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQxsU2n78MPp-4l4KJm0Hr1XzXXYxNWgjsZjItuLizCYEEnH3qb19rwC4svDr4oYZRYOOtraVrzgrtdMRMm0Jg-cWzn9xk8V2SShNd1bqbYH-TibwE_hBle-t0v1NHwpv08k82dW9AEj0/s1600/4.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I started this blanket at the end of May 2013, and worked on it for a few weeks - until the weather turned scorching hot, and it was too much to sit under an afghan. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAgD-tbruOBurvKV0bTxvF3NK5x5jfKEMgCectg7luvswXSGmTAQC7Xu05Y7IjSz3mjzQaihfdxqsa-ZnzMYkbx5GSyuRX_LlsrT6X5DvEbASvVVG4K4wwFHqqljhRS6WmFMCBGjdtmH0/s1600/IMG_20130525_151602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAgD-tbruOBurvKV0bTxvF3NK5x5jfKEMgCectg7luvswXSGmTAQC7Xu05Y7IjSz3mjzQaihfdxqsa-ZnzMYkbx5GSyuRX_LlsrT6X5DvEbASvVVG4K4wwFHqqljhRS6WmFMCBGjdtmH0/s1600/IMG_20130525_151602.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv1ybhnJPDTv1mS0x1qZcYzpc00OzowR2eVeYlxCoDm2qqkOM4ADOKy5e1b-NSWVjp9fnRFAnQDvc__9va5rSmdtxA9YLyeYE6zRns33CRuA4BaTRNbCRcpw8X_KxoEol6ld2l-UkMtSA/s1600/IMG_20130525_233350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv1ybhnJPDTv1mS0x1qZcYzpc00OzowR2eVeYlxCoDm2qqkOM4ADOKy5e1b-NSWVjp9fnRFAnQDvc__9va5rSmdtxA9YLyeYE6zRns33CRuA4BaTRNbCRcpw8X_KxoEol6ld2l-UkMtSA/s1600/IMG_20130525_233350.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;">So, I put it to the side and started crocheting smaller projects.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ8coF1qj4SDTSjDnbHnkwrX4fM_XKmnWlImbNLcQ9lNy7rY1V6FowAuy8zjcRAB2cbL-nW1Yy8_zZKn3c7vXNwu8veyuGuiA3mHi_1tuak08yUT4kXnBpbLlzTCsJyJ_X9GjcRVXi8AQ/s1600/IMG_20130623_163140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ8coF1qj4SDTSjDnbHnkwrX4fM_XKmnWlImbNLcQ9lNy7rY1V6FowAuy8zjcRAB2cbL-nW1Yy8_zZKn3c7vXNwu8veyuGuiA3mHi_1tuak08yUT4kXnBpbLlzTCsJyJ_X9GjcRVXi8AQ/s1600/IMG_20130623_163140.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;"> I then took it back out at the end of September, and finished the crocheting part. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH6LWtUpWvaLS-QhXcyWu_Hsz3Fx3ScTv2fts8z6EIWxlGsD_IlkP7ar2BVD_v-jyjtOEvksGeaFnKdproWpUEyiFLTT4b9b65dBzmqFxK28f3ZyvGIxWYkm2Y2tnpuv9zw3ku0l_ZmLQ/s1600/IMG_20130605_124648.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH6LWtUpWvaLS-QhXcyWu_Hsz3Fx3ScTv2fts8z6EIWxlGsD_IlkP7ar2BVD_v-jyjtOEvksGeaFnKdproWpUEyiFLTT4b9b65dBzmqFxK28f3ZyvGIxWYkm2Y2tnpuv9zw3ku0l_ZmLQ/s1600/IMG_20130605_124648.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;">But, those pesky ends that my past self didn't sew in as she worked, needed to be taken care of. I put the blanket up in the closet because I have been really busy with custom orders since October - thankfully! Well, last night I decided to just take it down and get those ends sewn up.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;">I am so happy that this blanket is finally done! Not too long after I started crocheting this blanket, Chris said that we had to keep it, because it reminded him of engineering paper. I don't see the resemblance, but I am happy to have a pretty afghan for the back of the couch now.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu2sk1peaqIjd0F9jw_7pc-7GymE4zA5DcnfW8_UTbEg_gM8M1O-eL0QvL8x8q8et0TgJ3PbYgQr7rwwpPKc8VFjGXfx0TvniExhLbmIog2Y_jRspzAxlebG7Nem8zbgQuyHW5Rn_leFQ/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu2sk1peaqIjd0F9jw_7pc-7GymE4zA5DcnfW8_UTbEg_gM8M1O-eL0QvL8x8q8et0TgJ3PbYgQr7rwwpPKc8VFjGXfx0TvniExhLbmIog2Y_jRspzAxlebG7Nem8zbgQuyHW5Rn_leFQ/s1600/6.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It will be so nice for those random, unplanned naps!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQXhsuaf6fEdUfG6k1N26FA_4OX0qSs2qLTkQtZ3SaHQ6mePv4aKpw3XnWV_aHKNHA5eGwTa2NcbqIdOBFOc5rX2hNklVDS67ml-eP-PrmRnC-1sMfpaDIUC0xn8IjOpeMa7k2in2l4to/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQXhsuaf6fEdUfG6k1N26FA_4OX0qSs2qLTkQtZ3SaHQ6mePv4aKpw3XnWV_aHKNHA5eGwTa2NcbqIdOBFOc5rX2hNklVDS67ml-eP-PrmRnC-1sMfpaDIUC0xn8IjOpeMa7k2in2l4to/s1600/1.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I found the pattern for this blanket on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/TheChirpinBirdie" target="_blank">Ravelry</a>, and it is called <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/summer-mist-throw" target="_blank">Summer Mist Thorw</a> - designed by Kim Guzman. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKhjlzY_BtRoVkB-f75keHW5QcQPVKBl2ug_8Y27LjnDuDSh20er7oy-SHQz37yM0sTb0PuML11-kDoluXwPmU6Abbe4g1S7Pt1B8Jv5YPna0gaPAnErZYFre9uYzcb7L8eKEImCo7EHc/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKhjlzY_BtRoVkB-f75keHW5QcQPVKBl2ug_8Y27LjnDuDSh20er7oy-SHQz37yM0sTb0PuML11-kDoluXwPmU6Abbe4g1S7Pt1B8Jv5YPna0gaPAnErZYFre9uYzcb7L8eKEImCo7EHc/s1600/5.jpg" height="472" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It is a fantastic pattern! It is fun, fast, and beautiful!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-CjYDZ12HukjKwDVtTr8DqKVaaY3VRlybdNYAdHEP-WlhSIKmXk_5HX7TXsqdCjgmkqjdzTcidDY45meVzq0xU39RQasV_sXG5HnR_RDN2fk_owFOWhmxphwNK6VNl1c3LNZ8PEjC-Ro/s1600/IMG_20130601_130950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-CjYDZ12HukjKwDVtTr8DqKVaaY3VRlybdNYAdHEP-WlhSIKmXk_5HX7TXsqdCjgmkqjdzTcidDY45meVzq0xU39RQasV_sXG5HnR_RDN2fk_owFOWhmxphwNK6VNl1c3LNZ8PEjC-Ro/s1600/IMG_20130601_130950.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I used Red Heart Super Saver in Charcoal, Lemon, Light Gray, and Soft White - four skeins of each if I remember correctly. And those twelve skeins produced a blanket that is 75"x78", plenty big enough for random napping.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7G1FwAqd6-dJ-pCjtNhG56cVbd5QQro1KgOQ2TKoboz06qk7g-9VXYjHSKOFOPGGZjEcehPhvpMmv3LSbbT0lXD7XrL7IY2xx0sdexhkwsQe6VQPG6O2HmcQNsZW9JsJroIdGOgovp1U/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7G1FwAqd6-dJ-pCjtNhG56cVbd5QQro1KgOQ2TKoboz06qk7g-9VXYjHSKOFOPGGZjEcehPhvpMmv3LSbbT0lXD7XrL7IY2xx0sdexhkwsQe6VQPG6O2HmcQNsZW9JsJroIdGOgovp1U/s1600/3.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Of course, Jixer is happy with the new blanket addition too!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<br />Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-74512038198570841002014-03-06T14:09:00.000-08:002014-03-06T14:42:21.787-08:00Sunday Charity CrochetHappy Thursday!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Today, I am going to share with you some of the charity crochet I worked on yesterday. I am especially excited about the present I made to send to Phinneus! You remember hearing about Phinn from my <a href="http://chirpinbirdie.blogspot.com/2014/03/sunday-charity-crochet.html" target="_blank">last post</a>, right?!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Well, I needed to make a couple more beanies for the family, so I decided to include a little cuddle buddy for Phinn.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHsOx2n6MUR8zfBcWExFdEOwZqdX8wvU3AdMxwyTgda8loowLqpgKBHUOaSWmh_ZCwKv0eD4AEj2I5Gfrtd2zLCfWHc5ESMAx1fDmtCoIG4GtnPWKOnWT-F1cZ9yEx8tuydOExq_d6EdE/s1600/Bear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHsOx2n6MUR8zfBcWExFdEOwZqdX8wvU3AdMxwyTgda8loowLqpgKBHUOaSWmh_ZCwKv0eD4AEj2I5Gfrtd2zLCfWHc5ESMAx1fDmtCoIG4GtnPWKOnWT-F1cZ9yEx8tuydOExq_d6EdE/s1600/Bear.jpg" height="640" width="526" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I made him a pirate teddy bear. I think this is my best amigurumi yet!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I didn't follow a pattern - but I am writing out what I did, and posting the pattern has been added to my to-do list.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I also asked Mrs.McKenna (Phinn's mom) to let me know if they meet any kids that want a beanie in specific colors. I told her a little of my 2014 goal of crocheting for charity every Sunday. She told me that they did meet a young man that is sick, and cannot leave the hospital - sorry, I didn't get his name. She also told me that he is a big Pittsburgh Steelers fan!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTlKo0bVg4qHrKVbjUziRA7vT2PheD4R5zyVVeqivEktPa3EGLBaqaiWeX7RnM41PBDqjAMqJSs9Klx16cLWkARndGbvnL3V8qP7Mt65bBIuBac6PbKHALeAKb6rE-Zy7waZrK95u3fjc/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTlKo0bVg4qHrKVbjUziRA7vT2PheD4R5zyVVeqivEktPa3EGLBaqaiWeX7RnM41PBDqjAMqJSs9Klx16cLWkARndGbvnL3V8qP7Mt65bBIuBac6PbKHALeAKb6rE-Zy7waZrK95u3fjc/s1600/7.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So, I crocheted this black and gold beanie last night, and it is in the box to ship to the McKenna's.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Another goody that I crocheted for the box is this - </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ouufaF9SXlEZTyB4khquh9-NjClE7s7NuoxKF05xgFsXVjIsKUuJ7fwPAoD1QfbSY5WU0ZUysUFUQcsFs08zAjeHQT5fXEt4NwKMvzcmlAbogGYLejIHe6VPaRfnhuuS0uHkRv_9uAM/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ouufaF9SXlEZTyB4khquh9-NjClE7s7NuoxKF05xgFsXVjIsKUuJ7fwPAoD1QfbSY5WU0ZUysUFUQcsFs08zAjeHQT5fXEt4NwKMvzcmlAbogGYLejIHe6VPaRfnhuuS0uHkRv_9uAM/s1600/6.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
- Bloomin' Heart brooch for Mrs. Mckenna.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Crocheting for the McKenna's this week has made me beyond happy!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-32117804740808250282014-03-03T11:56:00.000-08:002014-03-03T11:56:51.651-08:00Sunday Charity CrochetHello everyone!<br />
<br />
I am really excited to share the cause of my Sunday Charity Crochet this week! <br />
<br />
This week, I made six green beanies, for a family that lives in the town where I grew up. I don't know this family - except through newspaper articles, and their facebook page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/teamphinn" target="_blank">Team Phinneus McKenna</a>. Phinneus is an eleven year old boy that was, unfortunately, diagnosed with cancer. I wish I could help the family out financially, but that is just not an option for me right now - if you are able to make a donation, there is an online donation site <a href="https://fundly.com/team-phinnues-mckenna" target="_blank">here</a>. So instead, I messaged their faceook page, and spoke with Mrs.McKenna, offering to make a beanie for Phinn. She was so excited, which made me even more excited. I decided to do a little reconnaissance work, and asked a mutual friend for the names and ages of everyone in Phinn's family, so I could make them all green beanies. I really tried to make this a surprise for the McKenna's, but as I have told you all before, I am terrible at keeping secrets, especially about special gifts.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF-TKCqFWZHzjrgl8XTz8gUNwYURpwzwv-4z0zfLuXortWJWOZaAULJKiYl7TIM_DAYnakYv-ZTzwchmJDpKaGgRu4g7tXV376M-5iV4Oj5wz5UCoN0OvP9j6aYUMOdLMkrpV0JeAJlzY/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF-TKCqFWZHzjrgl8XTz8gUNwYURpwzwv-4z0zfLuXortWJWOZaAULJKiYl7TIM_DAYnakYv-ZTzwchmJDpKaGgRu4g7tXV376M-5iV4Oj5wz5UCoN0OvP9j6aYUMOdLMkrpV0JeAJlzY/s1600/1.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now, I don't know why green is the official 'Team Phinn' color, I just assume that it is Phinneus' favorite color. I just hope the family will enjoy their new beanies, and the beanies do justice in representing Team Phinn.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt0eftOGz4S5yUx9M4zi8RJclCkMS1Wqh00wdMSNccvFRvnEVNUlR0MRbOJ3SRptd7mcW1gOhmJDHv7H6VxOUel5WddyEnPZIjHGrOytHd3-A-2SnIsCQ26IYzcT4J1Il8OHT136CcuGM/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt0eftOGz4S5yUx9M4zi8RJclCkMS1Wqh00wdMSNccvFRvnEVNUlR0MRbOJ3SRptd7mcW1gOhmJDHv7H6VxOUel5WddyEnPZIjHGrOytHd3-A-2SnIsCQ26IYzcT4J1Il8OHT136CcuGM/s1600/4.jpg" height="628" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I made three of these simple green beanies with gray rim, one for each Phinneus, his step-dad, and his older brother.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj8gZQAAQzpFM2Vy7d7OURs_fy2cMMcy50ZphyyZ0k6shsYOQbPf2VCBpVb_2tBxb-bLnCo8NAuXjkaoqt6NvwjhFoDoTGOiQpdircf1SOsQdkDdiI0ie37H_Sioh-CbxA-Kn-sdYix_0/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj8gZQAAQzpFM2Vy7d7OURs_fy2cMMcy50ZphyyZ0k6shsYOQbPf2VCBpVb_2tBxb-bLnCo8NAuXjkaoqt6NvwjhFoDoTGOiQpdircf1SOsQdkDdiI0ie37H_Sioh-CbxA-Kn-sdYix_0/s1600/2.jpg" height="640" width="512" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For his mom, I made this shell stitch beanie, with a gold flower, and a vintage button that I got from my great-grandmother.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsKWCgRxFbwtYlwiZKN_1a4mQ_vmO0SxKqSE3z8aBSiagp8IrI5oieHq86HVfLqnxmgDld6Q4NSuEF-dPaOiyOX2gRiHXwZaWMAPXYyf7X4BqENKnKmuvKx_Ofr-xsbrmseDThLuy-fJA/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsKWCgRxFbwtYlwiZKN_1a4mQ_vmO0SxKqSE3z8aBSiagp8IrI5oieHq86HVfLqnxmgDld6Q4NSuEF-dPaOiyOX2gRiHXwZaWMAPXYyf7X4BqENKnKmuvKx_Ofr-xsbrmseDThLuy-fJA/s1600/3.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am in love the way this beanie turned out!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-0VT95V00rA0y9pvsrkhFbtaPIslI69Jnj2FifQEDXBP5iWeYeHouac2oNllJl7Ng5k3quq_fZwjQBPTTtwLSksJsZT3aORiTz-8HZ21kdhFoX9Xii6IT7PM5nsTMNy4PYpYcG4LQhwg/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-0VT95V00rA0y9pvsrkhFbtaPIslI69Jnj2FifQEDXBP5iWeYeHouac2oNllJl7Ng5k3quq_fZwjQBPTTtwLSksJsZT3aORiTz-8HZ21kdhFoX9Xii6IT7PM5nsTMNy4PYpYcG4LQhwg/s1600/5.jpg" height="576" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now, for Phinn's two little sisters, I made shell stitch beanies too, but I added a <a href="http://loopykidz.blogspot.ca/2014/01/bloomin-heart.html" target="_blank">Bloomin' Heart</a> to each beanie. I am a little obsessed with this pattern right now, and want to add these hearts to everything!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I wish I could do more to help the McKenna family.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcHAjCQI-90w4PWISe_z-uJWKlAxummEvLSLmX0-CVZARKOs0W6QdAix67nF3RfLuiW3bSHm9J_URqsT17dU4tqXT0eHE3iITHpgxv3J5bE82aYF9q1HH36j3h610d_YVA80DN8altjRo/s1600/Quote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcHAjCQI-90w4PWISe_z-uJWKlAxummEvLSLmX0-CVZARKOs0W6QdAix67nF3RfLuiW3bSHm9J_URqsT17dU4tqXT0eHE3iITHpgxv3J5bE82aYF9q1HH36j3h610d_YVA80DN8altjRo/s1600/Quote.jpg" height="506" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These words - the internet credits Theodore Roosevelt for - have been racing through my mind lately.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These beanies are what I can do now, with what I have.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Don't worry about the copyright on this photo, I am not breaking laws - Maxxo Productions is my photography company name, so I gave myself permission to use the photo!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I hope you all have a wonderful week!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Best Wishes,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Alison</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-56924000670953606672014-02-24T12:53:00.000-08:002014-02-24T12:53:24.589-08:00Sunday Charity CrochetHappy Monday!<br />
<br />
I just realized that I never did a post about last week's charity crochet, so this will be a two week post! Although, there is not much to show...<br />
<br />
I am trying to figure out the best way to make this pattern that is in my head, come in to reality, and I have spent much of my time trying to work it out perfectly. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhexxe0hb4nPnF6S2gqKNnV6h-Jz4jVktH-KbVYV1HRUGdo-7xyG-KfZChLLh4hMVrVfhDId1YXrpLOL9anCs9CkwB7XeccTegKKXxuxjhmwr43S-vRJGpnjlZKEOyVH1iUUN6ZvCBnMTQ/s1600/IMG_20140216_173432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhexxe0hb4nPnF6S2gqKNnV6h-Jz4jVktH-KbVYV1HRUGdo-7xyG-KfZChLLh4hMVrVfhDId1YXrpLOL9anCs9CkwB7XeccTegKKXxuxjhmwr43S-vRJGpnjlZKEOyVH1iUUN6ZvCBnMTQ/s1600/IMG_20140216_173432.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It is almost perfect!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After spending so much time on trying to work out that beanie, I needed a brain numbing project.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiolUBfKT4Nv8DIeldPoAV51WAics-pzEbgIcLRb9cx4LmvWm3LBL-_LWNDLoL5g0LzrlyNvgxxzEJ-nOJZ4eALckO2Zd3OkiV5Mo_Tn2mZof9sNO196x9ubCLpcxCD7SXjbNbG_PIDt1Y/s1600/IMG_20140223_173502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiolUBfKT4Nv8DIeldPoAV51WAics-pzEbgIcLRb9cx4LmvWm3LBL-_LWNDLoL5g0LzrlyNvgxxzEJ-nOJZ4eALckO2Zd3OkiV5Mo_Tn2mZof9sNO196x9ubCLpcxCD7SXjbNbG_PIDt1Y/s1600/IMG_20140223_173502.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So, I made some <a href="http://www.mysanfranciscokitchen.com/chocolate-chip-walnut-oatmeal-cookies/" target="_blank">Soft, Chewy Chocolate Chip & Walnut Oatmeal Cookies</a>, and sat down to crochet a mindless beanie.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEBQz8ceJmO8bxlQUxzclBfODb6t0J7HJlx6ieGBtGSEo34zvVMGIF7VFSBAvUe3qu-jIXPAPtfKHY8OtPC-03s_AvBICZl0OAhCvmJFRN0VecROxqV_-4O8I5D7R0sbuy-BdBj0HNSg4/s1600/IMG_20140224_111715_wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEBQz8ceJmO8bxlQUxzclBfODb6t0J7HJlx6ieGBtGSEo34zvVMGIF7VFSBAvUe3qu-jIXPAPtfKHY8OtPC-03s_AvBICZl0OAhCvmJFRN0VecROxqV_-4O8I5D7R0sbuy-BdBj0HNSg4/s1600/IMG_20140224_111715_wm.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I made a child size beanie, using yarn that has been in my stash for over 3 years. I know it is Bernat Satin yarn, but I don't know the name of the color, and the wrapper is long gone.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I also made another <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/bloomin-heart" target="_blank">Bloomin' Heart</a>, to sew onto this simple hdc beanie.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I crocheted this beanie last weekend...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWKc_PAmcO9wTcwxLywKbhRIRxvEALmgl9WcU0Pe5kbXQv7GQHK6sBN0k4fdszS_lJmiE99bE-0VBoGwNmWynqOCpLRpmwOPp_SxG7FW6aXVVidNIxz-ZGOTrXrx7TM7c71XqI5i4LAIM/s1600/IMG_20140216_115559_wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWKc_PAmcO9wTcwxLywKbhRIRxvEALmgl9WcU0Pe5kbXQv7GQHK6sBN0k4fdszS_lJmiE99bE-0VBoGwNmWynqOCpLRpmwOPp_SxG7FW6aXVVidNIxz-ZGOTrXrx7TM7c71XqI5i4LAIM/s1600/IMG_20140216_115559_wm.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But didn't make a post last week. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is a toddler size beanie, and all of the yarn info can be found on my last <a href="http://chirpinbirdie.blogspot.com/2014/02/sunday-charity-crochet_10.html" target="_blank">Sunday Charity Crochet post</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think next weekend I will go back to work on the hexagon blanket that I started a few weeks ago!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Please, remember to use the hashtag #sundaycharitycrochet - to share your charity crochet!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-2704555333271054172014-02-22T13:05:00.000-08:002014-02-22T22:46:03.667-08:00Retro Girl Baby BlanketHello, and Happy Saturday!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am just going to write a quick post about the new baby blanket that I just added to my <a href="http://www.chirpinbirdieshop.com/" target="_blank">Etsy shop</a>!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiygxCZafUYHapUgK8du7dLRNIQMlcvRl7S7bbjmv4BjxYgz1tezH5YFtBYIDQGTj9E_FN550o67QVf16ZfztnLkRXCmZtVaFw3UCT3jGI1Kz4xs7cVSxfeseKD0o8xd4sGkPnHeG3qnkQ/s1600/2+-+blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiygxCZafUYHapUgK8du7dLRNIQMlcvRl7S7bbjmv4BjxYgz1tezH5YFtBYIDQGTj9E_FN550o67QVf16ZfztnLkRXCmZtVaFw3UCT3jGI1Kz4xs7cVSxfeseKD0o8xd4sGkPnHeG3qnkQ/s1600/2+-+blog.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is one of my favorite baby blankets that I have ever done. I think because it is different - color wise - than anything I have crocheted before.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I used Red Heart yarns for this blanket. For the 12 squares, I used Red Heart with Love in Berry Red, and the other two colors are all Red Heart Super Saver in Hot Pink and Carrot.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The square pattern is called Tricolor Square, and is block number 35 from the book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Crochet-Blocks-Blankets-Throws-Afghans/dp/1931499683" target="_blank">200 Crochet Blocks for Blankets, Throws, and Afghans</a> by Jan Eaton.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9fcAFstrwTbuEEOsCEKWLXxL6T9SeYtR6mB_HRTcpBP_JvlUdZEY3EU4pmSX9Mwl3-NC2WOZUyRokhHtNf7eDFy5FFQJJLUKPub77LDbWhoTARpEcASJvEPNIWXUIxDYgS__cFNnhQ8/s1600/1+-+blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9fcAFstrwTbuEEOsCEKWLXxL6T9SeYtR6mB_HRTcpBP_JvlUdZEY3EU4pmSX9Mwl3-NC2WOZUyRokhHtNf7eDFy5FFQJJLUKPub77LDbWhoTARpEcASJvEPNIWXUIxDYgS__cFNnhQ8/s1600/1+-+blog.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For the border, I used Gold from Red Heart Super Saver. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I found the <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/255297872600675955/" target="_blank">pattern </a>for the border on Pinterest, and it is available for free - but it is a graph, unless you understand Chinese.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That is all for now! Follow my blog for more crochet fun! Also find me on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/chirpinbirdie" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="http://www.instagram.com/chirpinbirdie" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, and <a href="https://twitter.com/ChirpinBirdie" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Best Wishes,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Alison</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-40924803246589243992014-02-19T14:29:00.000-08:002014-02-19T14:29:05.124-08:00Star Trek BlanketBonjour!<br />
<br />
I am learning French - but that has nothing to do with my post today...<br />
<br />
So, I finished my second Star Trek blanket - early last week, but I am slacking on blog updates - and was actually able to take some photos this time! The first blanket I made, I barely finished before I had to hand it over to the customer that ordered it - as it was a Christmas gift, and she was on her way out of town. This blanket, was ordered as a Valentines Day gift, and it was delivered, and I got a picture of the happy recipient - it can be found in the 'Customer Photos' album on my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/chirpinbirdie" target="_blank">ChirpinBirdie Facebook page</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNVYP6CFd1VrM_z1slEqJ8NUStHj3QupYDHBKEPsV855Tfh0Sk5FAgMqJEI_Bvaf-N6tfw2BzYwprTV8uIM1Hcb1IjqfhuxX7WonVD7iAK3wlPp12E83FoMvuFpMbjZRr7DReaNIKZb10/s1600/Blanket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNVYP6CFd1VrM_z1slEqJ8NUStHj3QupYDHBKEPsV855Tfh0Sk5FAgMqJEI_Bvaf-N6tfw2BzYwprTV8uIM1Hcb1IjqfhuxX7WonVD7iAK3wlPp12E83FoMvuFpMbjZRr7DReaNIKZb10/s1600/Blanket.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am pretty happy with the way it turned out, and already have an order for a third Star Trek blanket!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For this blanket, I used all Red Heart Super Saver yarn, and the pattern for the communicators is based on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/star-trek-insignia-charts-tos" target="_blank">this free Ravelry download!</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUxtQ_k8h56dOa6Apmr4YJIoof419LdskwGQ4HLQVsE5nBpoMPJhanbVNy2XBLjMygo7H8V-9ppKECXCsKd7m-gE_d-IWfqXKxekr9176Oimli9jxT3u76H4WcpIvT1Q68TYv9Wf_WT80/s1600/Blocks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUxtQ_k8h56dOa6Apmr4YJIoof419LdskwGQ4HLQVsE5nBpoMPJhanbVNy2XBLjMygo7H8V-9ppKECXCsKd7m-gE_d-IWfqXKxekr9176Oimli9jxT3u76H4WcpIvT1Q68TYv9Wf_WT80/s1600/Blocks.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The background colors I used is Gold, Soft Navy, Teal, and Burgundy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For the outlining I used Black, and I used Heather Gray for the communicator symbol.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For the plain squares I used Light Gray.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTnhdWzguGLQ5F66mk3ZIgZZM8dDDU48dwYKostjBO97oSCJk6CGNX4vHwjvRWafly2-cECV6eHNJUtK8B0rJP_vfBScxBd1wF0miG5Je2N6Vwk2yUlxz7Al36I4A6bGd44VyAfQRq890/s1600/20140207_142123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTnhdWzguGLQ5F66mk3ZIgZZM8dDDU48dwYKostjBO97oSCJk6CGNX4vHwjvRWafly2-cECV6eHNJUtK8B0rJP_vfBScxBd1wF0miG5Je2N6Vwk2yUlxz7Al36I4A6bGd44VyAfQRq890/s1600/20140207_142123.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It took one skein of each of the background colors, and the light gray. A little less than one skein of the heather gray, in the communicator, and almost two skeins of black.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimC5O6eAWa932MzUf84NzAOdtW2bnwLHArZJKFhaPf3mSyc2jUSMAYFUQjJBZI-6SW0wUU7CgZZlpVgSQh9lwybptiDy59lswuaZVv995fwn7_Q2ouO_NVD56m3nQ02Z4O_HPEGI3huYo/s1600/Border.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimC5O6eAWa932MzUf84NzAOdtW2bnwLHArZJKFhaPf3mSyc2jUSMAYFUQjJBZI-6SW0wUU7CgZZlpVgSQh9lwybptiDy59lswuaZVv995fwn7_Q2ouO_NVD56m3nQ02Z4O_HPEGI3huYo/s1600/Border.jpg" height="462" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I chose to crochet a simple granny stripe border, using all of the background colors, broken up with the black.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Of course, Jixer made sure I got the blanket done on time!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeZDLPMkZworuTM4TiTCOMREgoPwcOWlMnG7g-z9qh_mO2jpzrwja26m5V4_7TQFnG9JwSpl-fhBHCu0Ei2jjjrFjDOzblWdWFnBBi8h2FHi58ahH0JMwF1iKXdAijRveSzXcTi1qkvRI/s1600/Jixer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeZDLPMkZworuTM4TiTCOMREgoPwcOWlMnG7g-z9qh_mO2jpzrwja26m5V4_7TQFnG9JwSpl-fhBHCu0Ei2jjjrFjDOzblWdWFnBBi8h2FHi58ahH0JMwF1iKXdAijRveSzXcTi1qkvRI/s1600/Jixer.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He is a wonderful supervisor!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcGMK7FJonL0G_Hn5ZiLxK6im8gTxJesEP4MFdv2XQPjJ73hUD3tf5dKmahxw1-yCKoLmSwTZCDTg86rtx3uxtxlhvMmSIIm2IPGJPQnpKu5DGgvgwtp3TsAATlCvNHg8svLgXZ_H3-ys/s1600/Jixer+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcGMK7FJonL0G_Hn5ZiLxK6im8gTxJesEP4MFdv2XQPjJ73hUD3tf5dKmahxw1-yCKoLmSwTZCDTg86rtx3uxtxlhvMmSIIm2IPGJPQnpKu5DGgvgwtp3TsAATlCvNHg8svLgXZ_H3-ys/s1600/Jixer+2.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He also had to test out the 'cuddle factor' of the blanket, before I shipped it - he approved!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That's it for now!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Don't forget to <a href="http://www.facebook.com/chirpinbirdie" target="_blank">like my Facebook page</a>, and follow me on <a href="http://instagram.com/chirpinbirdie" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/ChirpinBirdie" target="_blank">Twitter</a>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Best Wishes,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Alison</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-63653666011337323232014-02-10T14:20:00.000-08:002014-02-10T14:20:04.439-08:00Sunday Charity CrochetWell, it is Monday once again, and I am crocheting for charity today. I know I said that this would be happening every Sunday, but due to my lack of knowing what day it is half of the time, I am working on charity beanies on Monday. <br />
I figure it is better to work on them a day late, than not at all - so here I am.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3gDAUocF_rMeLvdTRQRxd07ZN-kcpJdlEFTaisS4hm1ErQ2EkD5YobjmNCOaGeD01-JnYhH4IbIzZJFVCTBOviH_evRpy_eNJ-ExzvJlbdX_IvnAftFLLWewf93wCN_kNsCfUF1wYUi0/s1600/IMG_20140210_141259_wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3gDAUocF_rMeLvdTRQRxd07ZN-kcpJdlEFTaisS4hm1ErQ2EkD5YobjmNCOaGeD01-JnYhH4IbIzZJFVCTBOviH_evRpy_eNJ-ExzvJlbdX_IvnAftFLLWewf93wCN_kNsCfUF1wYUi0/s1600/IMG_20140210_141259_wm.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This will be a toddler beanie, very shortly.</div>
<br />
<br />
Today, I am crocheting with Bernat Satin in Faded Glory Ombre. This skein of yarn has been in my stash for about three years, so it's about time I make use of it!<br />
<br />
I am hoping to get a couple of beanie done today, in the middle of cleaning the house - Monday's are my usual deep clean days.<br />
<br />
I hope you all are well! Remember, that if you are crocheting along with me on Sundays, for charity, then please use the hashtag #SundayCharityCrochet, so I can see the pretty pictures on Instagram!<br />
<br />
Best Wishes,<br />
AlisonAlisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-47307988376624161602014-02-03T10:37:00.001-08:002014-02-03T10:45:28.561-08:00Sunday Charity CrochetHappy Sunday....well, actually it is Monday, but this post is about the charity crochet for Sunday, February 2nd.<br />
<br />
I really love crocheting for charity one day a week. It really makes a me feel good.<br />
<br />
This week, Sunday was also Superbowl Sunday. I didn't expect to get much work done, and I was right.<br />
<br />
First, I was too caught up in the wonderful stories during the pregame shows, then the game was so horrific, I was sad and just sat there in amazement. I switched off the game after the halftime show - I totally want to see Bruno Mars in concert now - because I just couldn't take anymore disappointment. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOuQExrPoYF_JpiS0IMWXpT0JZWz9ZitMQTv-65d40JTnuCbElc1afXSR94L3rhKkNOxzB6dFv0ZbIzmuZGsvFfPGec0Nkmgxv-6M_2es3xig0OJg0hbnwq3KQS7Ur6MkeeZyaA-Rzd0I/s1600/IMG_20140202_123119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOuQExrPoYF_JpiS0IMWXpT0JZWz9ZitMQTv-65d40JTnuCbElc1afXSR94L3rhKkNOxzB6dFv0ZbIzmuZGsvFfPGec0Nkmgxv-6M_2es3xig0OJg0hbnwq3KQS7Ur6MkeeZyaA-Rzd0I/s1600/IMG_20140202_123119.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Of course, I had to have a beer while eating pizza and watching the game. This is the only Scottish Ale (my favorite type of beer) that I am able to find locally. I sure do miss the breweries in Missoula, but I don't miss the snow.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is the pitiful progress I made yesterday. I think next Sunday, it will just be me, my charity crochet, and the Ray LaMontagne Pandora station. Then, I hopefully won't be as distracted, and can make better progress.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiopF7rMgEHP8JDU-uTc3HBk7cUAnz11OtIChhRCo7bFqf4VX8tmV5s1M_FTIw0CSlh7HbtuycajUeSV5z4u5uMr8J8vA19Ge-5GsMf5UxQfHU1fKC53CkFIuYoUTmcZjWVacDy1_8Ck9Y/s1600/20140203_100846_wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiopF7rMgEHP8JDU-uTc3HBk7cUAnz11OtIChhRCo7bFqf4VX8tmV5s1M_FTIw0CSlh7HbtuycajUeSV5z4u5uMr8J8vA19Ge-5GsMf5UxQfHU1fKC53CkFIuYoUTmcZjWVacDy1_8Ck9Y/s1600/20140203_100846_wm.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I would love if some of my fellow crocheter joined in on the charity crochet fun. Crocheting one day a week for those in need will make you feel all warm inside, I promise!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you do, please use the hashtag #SundayChairtyCrochet, so I can see your beautiful work.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Until next Sunday - Have a fabulous week lovies!</div>
<br />
<br />Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-36908847660696659052014-01-31T13:25:00.001-08:002014-01-31T13:25:41.960-08:00Hooded CowlHappy Friday!<br />
<br />
I am super excited because I just finished a really cute crochet project.<br />
Twice in the last week, I was sent the same photo from two different friends, asking me if I would be able to crochet for them, what was in the photo.<br />
<br />
In the photo, were four of the cutest hooded cowls that I have ever seen! With a quick search on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/people/TheChirpinBirdie" target="_blank">Ravelry</a>, I found that these cute hooded cowls were from <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/the-velvet-acorn-designs" target="_blank">The Velvet Acorn</a>, and the patterns are for knitting.<br />
<br />
I was just sitting there with my crochet hook thinking 'I really need to learn to knit'. But, I can't knit, and I don't have time to learn right now. So, I just grabbed my hook, and some yarn, and winged it. <br />
<br />
Now there are crochet patterns - I found one on Amazon - for a hooded cowl, but it was made with only dc, and to me, that just makes it look kinda messy. I wanted something fun, cute, neat, and with some great crochet texture. So, I went with a sc/dc combo stitch, found in my favorite book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Complete-Photo-Guide-Crochet-Comprehensive-ebook/dp/B004R1Q0JI/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1391202868&sr=1-1&keywords=the+complete+photo+guide+to+crochet" target="_blank">The Complete Photo Guide to Crochet</a>.<br />
<br />
I started with a skein of Red Heart with Love in Peacock. I ran out of that skein, and spent all of Wednesday, searching in all of the craft stores in East Bay, and online, with no luck. It is sold out/out of stock everywhere! Even on the Red Heart website...boooooo.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWYIVTQy-NofXtdLqC1fGuQu9IsW3lpyQksgd5iKfAm4_YFGWM1SiycpAsSXOMhPdsK9m0_kUWDqpWgHodsRNiMd8qKmygnJFo4iqSIstEJ7DkV_bkXQsflbeSBsZzNHgI-UnAliX9cT0/s1600/IMG_20140130_150955_wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWYIVTQy-NofXtdLqC1fGuQu9IsW3lpyQksgd5iKfAm4_YFGWM1SiycpAsSXOMhPdsK9m0_kUWDqpWgHodsRNiMd8qKmygnJFo4iqSIstEJ7DkV_bkXQsflbeSBsZzNHgI-UnAliX9cT0/s1600/IMG_20140130_150955_wm.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, I had to start over with a new color. This time, I bought two skeins of I Love this Yarn in Rouge. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I used the entire two skeins of yarn, for this project.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVj1A69PItq51DOP_McnOffLSPAVPsJ3moYmYFLATX2mereHnKwj8ff9jKeyv9VrOEC0xsp9Ej3VQkJlDuVgo8nRrc7dcWx3SBOK_welq-DfHZtamHh67OP18wtzeQ3cpFdjoAG13Guy0/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVj1A69PItq51DOP_McnOffLSPAVPsJ3moYmYFLATX2mereHnKwj8ff9jKeyv9VrOEC0xsp9Ej3VQkJlDuVgo8nRrc7dcWx3SBOK_welq-DfHZtamHh67OP18wtzeQ3cpFdjoAG13Guy0/s1600/1.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am so happy with the way that it turned out. It almost makes me wish I still lived in a colder climate, so I could make myself one to wear....almost.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I know this will help my friend stay warm in Michigan, with this polar vortex happening.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Best Wishes,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Alison</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-25194107359168472942014-01-26T13:18:00.000-08:002014-01-26T13:18:27.542-08:00Sunday CrochetHello!<br />
<br />
It is Sunday, once again, and that means it is time for me to do a bit of charity crochet work!<br />
<br />
Last Sunday, I was not as productive as usual, because I was too busy yelling at the television - that 49ers/Seahawks game was intense...Anyways, I was able to complete two beanies.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXNdbAk1ZfKYt8AyXwFVDGzGQmyVXB-ZYuUImk6FBE4xYLqGUUu7_AVg4YlyA1K7M5Bv42rj8qoUl8YFSewZwmFJe80j64oIUdW9UslEhti-HhSeU2lZfWLKaHjWHclgm95Dfs5h7IcJI/s1600/Week+1+Finsihed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXNdbAk1ZfKYt8AyXwFVDGzGQmyVXB-ZYuUImk6FBE4xYLqGUUu7_AVg4YlyA1K7M5Bv42rj8qoUl8YFSewZwmFJe80j64oIUdW9UslEhti-HhSeU2lZfWLKaHjWHclgm95Dfs5h7IcJI/s1600/Week+1+Finsihed.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On the left is a childsize beanie, made with bright green and blue yarn.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On the right is a childsize beanie, made with bright blue yarn, puff stitches, and a bright purple flower accent.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They will be donated to a cancer center near my hometown. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This week, I am in hexagon mode! I have been working on a hexagon baby blanket for the past couple of days, and thought that a hexagon blanket for charity will be lovely.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6QPfHIJ6W__t4Q8nGfV_hjdhWEUb5fb8722IjU9S88eYzi-SMVNiM_7_Y3Wzn2m5IrISdFVWT6w4OIcboKZci8-CGUk2ejteDr8hSuU255zGMGF86z_Dxzepgv11RQN8xr3_ekHgrVFE/s1600/1-26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6QPfHIJ6W__t4Q8nGfV_hjdhWEUb5fb8722IjU9S88eYzi-SMVNiM_7_Y3Wzn2m5IrISdFVWT6w4OIcboKZci8-CGUk2ejteDr8hSuU255zGMGF86z_Dxzepgv11RQN8xr3_ekHgrVFE/s1600/1-26.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am not sure where this will be donated yet. I have received a lot of information from others about charities they have worked with, or charities that have helped them out, so I am sure this will find a good home.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you know of a charity in need of handmade beanies or blankets, please, send me an email, or comment below. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Best Wishes,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Alison</div>
<br />Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-72860799792045841672014-01-19T13:42:00.000-08:002014-01-19T13:42:46.077-08:00Sunday CrochetHappy Sunday!<br />
<br />
This morning, as I sat in my chair and wondered what order I should work on today, as I watch the AFC and NFC football games, it hit me - I have not done any charity crochet in far too long.<br />
So, I decided that for the remainder of 2014, I will make every Sunday, a day that I crochet only charity items. I mostly crochet beanies for cancer patients, and donate them to a cancer center near my hometown. But, I am also going to crochet some squares each Sunday, and make blankets to donate.<br />
<br />
Sometime this week, I will make a new tab ^up there^, where I will link to all of my Sunday projects. I hope that I can bring some joy into others lives, and I hope that maybe, some of my fellow hookers will join in on the fun. <br />
<br />
Here is the start of my first charity project:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix4DEQ4a_ofDOiaUpBllYT6qgHNVdaIYXMum2fdvzIowHepK2bScBdg-g9wqD1J65MGoxjj_hyphenhyphenmRRGi2lltbHIYV0hP4mrPKbnBH5kI4QXZAl47DNGS8SLCoAP_tfpIlogXnEHoJLopRQ/s1600/IMG_20140119_132114_wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix4DEQ4a_ofDOiaUpBllYT6qgHNVdaIYXMum2fdvzIowHepK2bScBdg-g9wqD1J65MGoxjj_hyphenhyphenmRRGi2lltbHIYV0hP4mrPKbnBH5kI4QXZAl47DNGS8SLCoAP_tfpIlogXnEHoJLopRQ/s1600/IMG_20140119_132114_wm.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This WIP is a puff stitch child size beanie.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I will also be setting up a button, where others that do not crochet, can donate a small amount, which will be used to help buy yarn, to keep up the Sunday crocheting.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Best Wishes,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Alison</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-51491930822457608672014-01-10T15:55:00.000-08:002014-11-18T16:03:11.313-08:00Chunk Lace Cowl<div style="text-align: center;">
The Chunk Lace Cowl Pattern is no longer available as a free pattern. <br />
Though, it is still available in the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/211753326/chunk-lace-cowl-crochet-pattern" target="_blank">ChirpinBirdie Etsy shop</a>!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Slw480J-FRLRxNHxiGZP0mCbjOQvvStpzAAg4M6hbO7KqmTo_g3LYk2ZRAGOPu4JHN3OO95FIaFIOwl0PMZN2HGe_4Sy0lkpAkHkublr5Rye5hsheFJ65Q0iJesNgbk8TUgNIIQixIY/s1600/Cowl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Slw480J-FRLRxNHxiGZP0mCbjOQvvStpzAAg4M6hbO7KqmTo_g3LYk2ZRAGOPu4JHN3OO95FIaFIOwl0PMZN2HGe_4Sy0lkpAkHkublr5Rye5hsheFJ65Q0iJesNgbk8TUgNIIQixIY/s1600/Cowl.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9WfdUCWH06GejA_W9NewhUAhTt4JxpWFe4OJJx1FMJyReql5W81ogI6Np_E3CegNdrEnQ-Y6GhR14E8slEbtZYgRgWudCpP6mJy7c0LjhmQ3Y5UZf2DJkVSoKR-C26zN_XHaDOyLGnU/s1600/Border.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn9WfdUCWH06GejA_W9NewhUAhTt4JxpWFe4OJJx1FMJyReql5W81ogI6Np_E3CegNdrEnQ-Y6GhR14E8slEbtZYgRgWudCpP6mJy7c0LjhmQ3Y5UZf2DJkVSoKR-C26zN_XHaDOyLGnU/s1600/Border.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Best Wishes,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Alison</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-42667510282673142332013-10-06T16:36:00.001-07:002013-10-06T16:36:47.599-07:00Favorite ProjectsHappy Sunday!<br />
<br />
Well, I just finished crocheting another chevron blanket. This was a custom order for a baby blanket in shades of pink and purple. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgedxke711sS6u6hyDN3SMtWyonorBITSTZpiuWI9o-YGaDQihu5YPMJXu9S-ORHGjtcD3elYV0Uj3Nu7_vCpioPkySVSTzRJ4HxqA3w3aHAjKanrrxqsmqkEXajXQip1gDjDoRFv71w-k/s1600/IMG_20131006_161231_wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgedxke711sS6u6hyDN3SMtWyonorBITSTZpiuWI9o-YGaDQihu5YPMJXu9S-ORHGjtcD3elYV0Uj3Nu7_vCpioPkySVSTzRJ4HxqA3w3aHAjKanrrxqsmqkEXajXQip1gDjDoRFv71w-k/s400/IMG_20131006_161231_wm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love the way this baby blanket turned out!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It is made with seven different colors of Vanna's Choice yarn from Lion Brand.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It measures 37"x46", which I believe is a great baby blanket size. It is not too big to be carried around, and it is big enough to still be used into the toddler years.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The pattern I used for this blanket is the Fans and Feathers Ripple from the book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Complete-Photo-Guide-Crochet-Comprehensive/dp/1589234723" target="_blank">"The Complete Photo Guide to Crochet"</a>. This book is still one of the best resources for crochet, in my opinion. There are so many wonderful patterns and ideas; I highly recommend this book to anyone that loves to crochet.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I squared off the ends using a mix of sc, hdc, dc, tr, 2trtog, dtr, 2dtrtog. I finished it off by a simple round of hdc to border the entire blanket.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The blanket only took me a little over a day from start to finish, so I didn't get too many progress shots. But, I did snap a few photos.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ2UfKesqiF5J594J0p6DC3qtVj_l4G5WZMtN5QvuSEv-J1eaJB5DmYb-KvT_aXYIOKYKm2TIh4azcqen18GYA0O5-CuFpkQWMO-BqBOLSWPLPBNYs29QbBN9aK2yHmX1-5asXC0N1pPw/s1600/IMG_20131005_125739.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ2UfKesqiF5J594J0p6DC3qtVj_l4G5WZMtN5QvuSEv-J1eaJB5DmYb-KvT_aXYIOKYKm2TIh4azcqen18GYA0O5-CuFpkQWMO-BqBOLSWPLPBNYs29QbBN9aK2yHmX1-5asXC0N1pPw/s400/IMG_20131005_125739.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg2oFXVBRPsxkaJ0qLIVOxpFHYf6cyOchVRBXhwc7tUqrRv6IFuqhQSAC5sWchGVW_hgk2CMXzi0-L2ht5M-YphTgkSNlaE1E4HQOvlaOwzAJuFgwEkSrQ1HNvwLYC6MqyhEm-wfQ8u48/s1600/IMG_20131006_013142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg2oFXVBRPsxkaJ0qLIVOxpFHYf6cyOchVRBXhwc7tUqrRv6IFuqhQSAC5sWchGVW_hgk2CMXzi0-L2ht5M-YphTgkSNlaE1E4HQOvlaOwzAJuFgwEkSrQ1HNvwLYC6MqyhEm-wfQ8u48/s400/IMG_20131006_013142.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Of course, real time progress can always be followed on my <a href="http://instagram.com/chirpinbirdie" target="_blank">@chirpinbirdie</a> Instagram feed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have made a few other blankets with this same pattern in the recent past.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRK5R5KbWUPDMCMn-ZWEpfb21kMCFGGdY_DJPP_XUeL5344S4ERvAK9-q6LE5L6zvnsXk_NH9xdYz4sKyoKOAW72W_hbdl8okfOZwXp5LD-ZxV2TkVC5sJDk4XnYMwHeMTj_7ZURs8PSg/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRK5R5KbWUPDMCMn-ZWEpfb21kMCFGGdY_DJPP_XUeL5344S4ERvAK9-q6LE5L6zvnsXk_NH9xdYz4sKyoKOAW72W_hbdl8okfOZwXp5LD-ZxV2TkVC5sJDk4XnYMwHeMTj_7ZURs8PSg/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This blue and green ripple is still available in my Etsy shop. If you are interested, you can click on the tab above.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmndJKOnd6bAeiumKolkxgYFANcPBfTgnwUl8m_8eXov0ed0g7ZwbIKWi3hXV7ZPA1fRZyFQsCDJ0fYDzE2uuuIgbgBij73wN0Kxesbm-8Kc-e36J05HOhK381CeVAzWTQbvB6DBWhkUk/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmndJKOnd6bAeiumKolkxgYFANcPBfTgnwUl8m_8eXov0ed0g7ZwbIKWi3hXV7ZPA1fRZyFQsCDJ0fYDzE2uuuIgbgBij73wN0Kxesbm-8Kc-e36J05HOhK381CeVAzWTQbvB6DBWhkUk/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This one sold out from my Etsy shop already. This blue and orange is still one of my favorite color schemes, and I would be so happy to crochet with these color again.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY-Usv1mZuJlhvdKmgdy2HWW4V0NCfYLgiJeytzRxVger96TmaKi19WkMg9-YUg0HtW7Lu0OMV44ydZ2hVy6rBuAh2IacnCBAvrUSBgh6diF8CT0YJqdN3VwEsHkQExMr-UwQ27xxzVbA/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY-Usv1mZuJlhvdKmgdy2HWW4V0NCfYLgiJeytzRxVger96TmaKi19WkMg9-YUg0HtW7Lu0OMV44ydZ2hVy6rBuAh2IacnCBAvrUSBgh6diF8CT0YJqdN3VwEsHkQExMr-UwQ27xxzVbA/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This pink and green baby blanket is also available in my Etsy shop still.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Best Wishes,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Alison</div>
Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1764040269031982765.post-48171251074033814682013-09-30T16:20:00.000-07:002013-09-30T16:20:59.266-07:00An Afghan of My Very OwnSo, if you follow me on Instagram, then you know that I have been working on some squares lately. Well, they are all done, all put together, all the ends sewn in, a border crocheted around, and I not am the proud owner of my very own afghan!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0iH8L7SJMI6isOnaYlow7UkFa1YyxqZWhBnpgHf_Ylmlu0vRTLcFGzFATSjq9riqTwnCnsT5M3IWRm6DZ0OO986v-AFkpGbXbJn2TqXSfJYC8p47EhN_oK-24gSXTQ5r9GLltN96LqiI/s1600/20130927_105223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0iH8L7SJMI6isOnaYlow7UkFa1YyxqZWhBnpgHf_Ylmlu0vRTLcFGzFATSjq9riqTwnCnsT5M3IWRm6DZ0OO986v-AFkpGbXbJn2TqXSfJYC8p47EhN_oK-24gSXTQ5r9GLltN96LqiI/s400/20130927_105223.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The blanket measures 66"x83" and looks fabulous on my full sized bed...if I do say so myself.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhamjAWiPFCLZWLouuRve-3G3c0Lg6gw0sxO4Kcoapj_V2J6DxGcEXmERuOzBapq2tMfC15LdXu06mfFg-jRBfA4aVtnPFlMlxDDO44RWSroJge2vQZE5VN6qvbGx2Gwz9ef_l2mxi-gVg/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhamjAWiPFCLZWLouuRve-3G3c0Lg6gw0sxO4Kcoapj_V2J6DxGcEXmERuOzBapq2tMfC15LdXu06mfFg-jRBfA4aVtnPFlMlxDDO44RWSroJge2vQZE5VN6qvbGx2Gwz9ef_l2mxi-gVg/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am so ecstatic about the way this afghan turned out. It is made with 30 squares, and no two squares are the same.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The morning after the first night I was able to sleep with it, I was so happy when I woke up and saw what was on my bed. I had kinda forgotten that I had a brand new snazzy blanket to cuddle with.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiMLB8KN5QotsZgTlV8HHrrUaveYhC9o2WIUnc1TyoGxF16yiGyCzU_99Axnzwjt8larrF08RgqwET9QSooRN_gEos6VRsip7gvcAN2qDgrPcrakGvot0hrnbj_aLFEwaSesBi7HPht_w/s1600/20130927_102510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiMLB8KN5QotsZgTlV8HHrrUaveYhC9o2WIUnc1TyoGxF16yiGyCzU_99Axnzwjt8larrF08RgqwET9QSooRN_gEos6VRsip7gvcAN2qDgrPcrakGvot0hrnbj_aLFEwaSesBi7HPht_w/s400/20130927_102510.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think Jixer was pretty happy about it too!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
This project did not start out to be a project to make myself a blanket, but a few squares in, I knew that I wanted this blanket all to myself...well, I will share with Jixer, but that is it! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCe3TISZx_bG3JUVqbi4PxsROpFQ2pLMq8sR6xwAFxyKVAr_I6FH_MF9DC6_P4Dv97Wx5fvPTePqOFf-D7fDTN_cfFgqLj1wIoK4DUS7jSL8PnjZwYWsU-9IBBVGuS17NTCy3RJpdGlJA/s1600/IMG_20130914_131116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCe3TISZx_bG3JUVqbi4PxsROpFQ2pLMq8sR6xwAFxyKVAr_I6FH_MF9DC6_P4Dv97Wx5fvPTePqOFf-D7fDTN_cfFgqLj1wIoK4DUS7jSL8PnjZwYWsU-9IBBVGuS17NTCy3RJpdGlJA/s320/IMG_20130914_131116.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is when I fell in love, and I knew that I was going to be keeping this blanket all for myself.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I fell in love with this blanket even more once I started crocheting squares with multiple colors.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaz6rW_8flEZs6-JOVKFz0qZMpgLqB8yLwxIsOUNy-XM2Q6TfK0tCGXcl0xf_5z5gAoHQmYMv9aQpqZLHiMM5EivuLh55PAywRTNzNWhGcafBKhL0kl0tcPO4YrhUpICePnqSOyhe-YWs/s1600/IMG_20130922_012512.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaz6rW_8flEZs6-JOVKFz0qZMpgLqB8yLwxIsOUNy-XM2Q6TfK0tCGXcl0xf_5z5gAoHQmYMv9aQpqZLHiMM5EivuLh55PAywRTNzNWhGcafBKhL0kl0tcPO4YrhUpICePnqSOyhe-YWs/s400/IMG_20130922_012512.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is my favorite square of the blanket.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
The square I am talking about, the one that I fell in love with, and the one that makes me so happy, is the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/in-treble-afghan-square" target="_blank">In Treble Afghan Square</a> by Julie Yeager. Julie, I don't know who you are, but I know that I love you! I rarely buy a pattern (this is my 4th ever pattern purchase in the 12 years that I have crocheted), but I really wanted this pattern, and it is only $1.99. It is so worth every penny!<br />
<br />
I followed the pattern to a tee, except I left off the last round of hdc. For each of my squares, I used the same color yarn for the first row of hdc, and used Red Heart Super Saver in Aran. I also used this same yarn to join the squares with the flat braid join, as well as for the scalloped border.<br />
<br />
This was a stash busting project for me, so the squares are a mixture of Red Heart Super Saver, Red Heart with Love, Red Heart Soft, Loops and Threads Impeccable, Craft Smart, and Vanna's Choice. <br />
<br />
Here is the progression of my blanket in photos...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHZ3yVB-BoeAEVfwYZCJzsXlSwlmaUFUrlyykpss5Rj0flZl9Mltg1_4pTZl1Suhkh1ArYVQUTJSWBy0plHPHteQzwNPUquUnrMQM4PkYlbHzDlBSIvYSPx0nIOl5_LD4Rcw5Q6Dm8vvo/s1600/IMG_20130913_153917.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHZ3yVB-BoeAEVfwYZCJzsXlSwlmaUFUrlyykpss5Rj0flZl9Mltg1_4pTZl1Suhkh1ArYVQUTJSWBy0plHPHteQzwNPUquUnrMQM4PkYlbHzDlBSIvYSPx0nIOl5_LD4Rcw5Q6Dm8vvo/s400/IMG_20130913_153917.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The first square</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEAcYz0ngyXCs-ImDymZ73F_o7dkFXEmr-aX5kVvagGwaALChnK2k9Z1o9xgl9yGYjVH2C_hmXaV40SJW-6QMmPv_MexLhEbrhXZxSSkFGQP93NmBr4e4HgbZyKqWnjj5UTpKa6uaURM0/s1600/IMG_20130915_015948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEAcYz0ngyXCs-ImDymZ73F_o7dkFXEmr-aX5kVvagGwaALChnK2k9Z1o9xgl9yGYjVH2C_hmXaV40SJW-6QMmPv_MexLhEbrhXZxSSkFGQP93NmBr4e4HgbZyKqWnjj5UTpKa6uaURM0/s400/IMG_20130915_015948.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The only variegated square in the blanket</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixeYbwxVRFAWW-6IFhczMrWdjrmu3K6DdVteNF0fg4Od1gUybK-b0UMtaryAjK2U5x58TcG5hNfRx8CFd_97aF46MUpmIQkgyj76qxLNkvlUb_tYd0JE6iYrWEFryjLwWFj8JOEJ7OMRY/s1600/IMG_20130915_175350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixeYbwxVRFAWW-6IFhczMrWdjrmu3K6DdVteNF0fg4Od1gUybK-b0UMtaryAjK2U5x58TcG5hNfRx8CFd_97aF46MUpmIQkgyj76qxLNkvlUb_tYd0JE6iYrWEFryjLwWFj8JOEJ7OMRY/s400/IMG_20130915_175350.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
First photo after I decided to add a row of hdc of Aran.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaTTRsLV9T4ZmOchA9C2ZrzAEZ6MMvPewH0K8em8bCCZ8im48azSulhSOXItsloA8opHB8MHBPtpsnpd1LiQ8Njv25MC37Htx5Vcspy-pbMvAtKQRywk-8IA4wiY6UYs_QSnwhGx8JcDg/s1600/IMG_20130918_155424_wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaTTRsLV9T4ZmOchA9C2ZrzAEZ6MMvPewH0K8em8bCCZ8im48azSulhSOXItsloA8opHB8MHBPtpsnpd1LiQ8Njv25MC37Htx5Vcspy-pbMvAtKQRywk-8IA4wiY6UYs_QSnwhGx8JcDg/s400/IMG_20130918_155424_wm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They are starting to pile up!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4-iVxW4CRJ8NxHPq05JCpAq-0LKNr9zh3BHOVYBqsBCJDeeiUtw53OgJis1BhgUNO5Cz11MM1BbS3LDC57Y4GBkwsBjBNtSdqkV6dfJjqwoC-7KoQG8kLZpVT_cjCLmmX-tnznJ7AWxI/s1600/IMG_20130917_125849_wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4-iVxW4CRJ8NxHPq05JCpAq-0LKNr9zh3BHOVYBqsBCJDeeiUtw53OgJis1BhgUNO5Cz11MM1BbS3LDC57Y4GBkwsBjBNtSdqkV6dfJjqwoC-7KoQG8kLZpVT_cjCLmmX-tnznJ7AWxI/s400/IMG_20130917_125849_wm.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I never realized how pretty this color was until I crocheted it with the In Treble pattern.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi95tVThPEuvUSgnveh1FmgUS1c4-15U26fUe-4qR-RQbrafjCn9Nc21240XDl0ScRefbBQANUaMCUruaOJypE5s_bfm1MVlM7REpSBPI17ChEypMNkD7AVOEM7c-hjwOH9NiXSZo8xlTs/s1600/20130923_142226.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi95tVThPEuvUSgnveh1FmgUS1c4-15U26fUe-4qR-RQbrafjCn9Nc21240XDl0ScRefbBQANUaMCUruaOJypE5s_bfm1MVlM7REpSBPI17ChEypMNkD7AVOEM7c-hjwOH9NiXSZo8xlTs/s400/20130923_142226.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Jixer is always around to help! We were trying to figure out the layout of the squares.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyDHSFcjEFsvEmmipspKwo9XAHExGc9ILwDo5sx9DFsCkL1j417o8gYjIE1PHSGMBHpuZ5seitaFzbrUjUNPZd9qwHSKidlToafhbAQkS8gzjoj8d55dKD4TSz_ARQqvtJ4x_mdpFfdB4/s1600/20130924_163618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyDHSFcjEFsvEmmipspKwo9XAHExGc9ILwDo5sx9DFsCkL1j417o8gYjIE1PHSGMBHpuZ5seitaFzbrUjUNPZd9qwHSKidlToafhbAQkS8gzjoj8d55dKD4TSz_ARQqvtJ4x_mdpFfdB4/s400/20130924_163618.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
All the squares are done and just waiting to be joined.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF7-sbCt9BDB-01wxPJIOXrHqnwemc_L2h4uCOfWrNViif7IBRirZWtnvACBtaEBvq7Av9sxbDZ1ZkfHyvIH5F3FLMP98lqwwg8r7lYYlbIp8DAYA25kbj6hfZmYcyi8-IreYfE21QoIQ/s1600/IMG_20130925_181721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF7-sbCt9BDB-01wxPJIOXrHqnwemc_L2h4uCOfWrNViif7IBRirZWtnvACBtaEBvq7Av9sxbDZ1ZkfHyvIH5F3FLMP98lqwwg8r7lYYlbIp8DAYA25kbj6hfZmYcyi8-IreYfE21QoIQ/s400/IMG_20130925_181721.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
All joined and waiting for a border.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This afghan is by far my favorite that I have ever crocheted. I hope you all have some exciting projects going on. Remember, that I take custom orders at all times for crochet items.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Have a splendiferous day everyone!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Best Wishes,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Alison</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />Alisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07314584396743327355noreply@blogger.com1