Good New, Bad News

Mississippi River

Taken from Mill City

Minneapolis, MN

My last post I was waiting for the results of the second biopsy, the results of which leads to good news and bad news.

Bad news first; I have ductal carcinoma in situ in the right breast. The cancer is in two places and I will need a mastectomy.

The good news; the cancer is non-invasive and I shouldn't need radiation or chemo therapy.

The surgery is scheduled for September 27. I wish it were sooner. It's not that I am impatient--I just want this out of me!

Projects

I've put aside the lace top for now. It's to the point of shoulder shaping and for some reason I just can't seem to focus enough to do the math. The top can wait.

Instead I've started this lacy shawl. The pattern and yarn are from the Knit and Crochet show in Minneapolis. I love the silk yarn. My only dilemma is that I am afraid that I will run out of yarn. I bought this yarn because it was used for the pattern and the sample at the booth. I did a search on the designer to see if I could contact her, but no luck. There are a few more rows to go before the edging. Here's hoping that I can finish the shawl itself with the yarn. We have several yarn shops around here. Maybe one of them will have a silk DK weight yarn in a matching color for the edging.

What I am Reading

Life among the Lutherans is finished. This was a fun book to read; however, I didn't care much for one of the stories, "Ninety-five Theses". I know this book is about growing up Lutheran in Minnesota, but as a parent this was just not funny. It's not easy being a parent and children don't come with manuals! My favorite is still "Church Organist."

My husband found a used book store close to us and yesterday we paid a visit. It was like a treasure hunt! I found a 1956 Pocketbook edition of Ivanhoe. That copy of the book is almost as old as me, and yes I had to get it.

Right now I am reading The Third Life of Granger Copeland, by Alice Walker. I've only read the first chapter, so there is not much to report.

Other Stuff

Tomorrow is my birthday and I plan to enjoy this time as much as possible. Today I had lunch with my husband and daughter (I can't believe she is going to be twenty-nine in a few weeks). We had a wonderful visit and shared a peach cobbler for dessert. Tomorrow night after work, I'll have dinner with my husband and in-laws.

Have a good week!

My Journey Begins

The test results are in. I have breast cancer; therefore, my journey begins. I would like to use this blog now for a couple of reasons. One, to keep family and friends updated and hopefully get those who have put off their mammogram to get one; and two, as therapy. I'll try to continue with crochet and knitting updates as I can.

My journey began August 23 with a screening mammogram. Nothing was said, but I was a little suspicious when the tech kept covering the images so I wouldn't see. I didn't think too much about that because I do have a tendency to get cysts. A few days later I received a phone call asking me to go to the Breast Center at the hospital for more thorough testing with a doctor.

August 30 found me at the Breast Center, an hour later I was told that I needed a biopsy. Still, I didn't worry too much. Biopsies have been talked about before for the cysts, but the cysts always went away. This time there was something different--calcifications. The doctor said that 80% of the time, it's nothing to worry about. And I have talked to other women who had biopsies for calcifications and they are fine.

I had the biopsy on Friday, September 2, right before a holiday. The wait was horrible. The news came September 7. That afternoon I met with a doctor, who found another mass, and I had another biopsy that day. I will definitely need surgery. This last biopsy will give us more information for a battle plan. Of course, I haven't received the results and have had to wait the weekend--again.

When I got the information that I have cancer, I didn't know if I wanted to cry or throw-up--I did both, then called my husband and took a walk around the parking lot. Once I got control of myself, I told my boss. She is being very supportive and so are my co-workers. I am ready to fight this. I do have meltdowns, but my wonderful husband has been so helpful. He has taken on the responsibility of keeping my attitude in check--he won't allow me to give up, but does allow me to cry. His boss is also supportive (we work at the same place, just different departments). We have both been told to do what is needed and not worry about time off, paycheck, etc.

Projects

Needless to say, I haven't spent much time working on anything. No progress has been made on the lace top. I do, however, have an order for potholders that I have been working on. Potholders don't require much thought, so has been perfect.

I did go through my stash, matched yarn with patterns, and put projects with hooks and needles in separate bags. Whatever I need to work on, I should be able to find it. I came up with 2 pairs of socks, 3 shawls, a necklace, a hooded scarf with mitts, placemats, potholders, coasters, can cozies, the lace top, and the sock blankie started a long time ago. That should keep me busy.

What I Am Reading

I'm still reading Life among the Lutherans, by Garrison Keillor. This is the perfect book for me to read right now. He has one story about an organist, "Scripture says, 'Be still and know that I am God.' This is not the organist's philosophy. Organists despise stillness. They're sitting there with the organ equivalent of a 300 hp Ferrari and they want to put the pedal to the metal and make that baby fly". I love that! I reminds me of an organist we had many years ago. Every Sunday morning, as people would quietly meditate before the start of the service, the organ would bellow and every single person in the church jumped.

I am looking for some good books to ready over the next several months. The books need to be upbeat, happy, and no sad endings. Any suggestions?

Other Stuff

The section is going on a hiatus as "My Journey" will take over this part.

I've been asked if there is anything anyone can do for me. I always reply "prayers and hugs". I've been getting a lot of hugs and hopefully a lot of prayers.

This is September 11, Remembrance Day for those who lost their lives to terrorists' actions at the Twin Towers in New York City on September 11, 2001. We will always remember...

Have a good week!

Ummmmm....

This week saw rounds two, three, and four of testing--this time at the hospital. Hopefully that will be the end of it.

With that being said, I didn't get a whole lot accomplished over the last week.

Above is a progress report on the lace top I'm making. So far it's going as planned. Please keep in mind that the top is made from size 10 crochet thread and will look a lot nicer once the top is blocked. I decided to crochet this in the round (saving seaming). Right now, I'm on the way up the back.

What I Am Reading

I did finish Amy Tan's, Saving Fish from Drowning. This was a excellent study on human behavior and what I believe is a slightly exaggerated version of the American tourist. Of course, I have never been an American tourist is a country strange to me, so I can't say for sure if Tan is exaggerating to make for a good story. I do recommend Saving Fish from Drowning. I would be curious to see how other people feel.

Next up is a book I picked up while in Minneapolis, Life among the Lutherans, by Minnesota native Garrison Keillor. I listen the Keillor's podcast, Writer's Almanac, and my husband and his family love A Prairie Home Companion. I thoroughly enjoy both. I've only read the first two stories and they have managed to bring a chuckle--something I desperately need right now.

Other Stuff

Today is Labor Day, an American holiday that "is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country". Taken from the U.S. Department of Labor website. Check it out for more details on the holiday.

All my poop bag dispensers are up at DinaMarie's Crochet. Potholders should be up by the end of the week. Stop by. Window shoppers are always welcome.

Have a good week!

Chain Necklace

Chain, Chain, Chain

Knitter's Journey

This is a kit I picked up at the Knit & Crochet Show in Minneapolis. The picture is a little dark, but it is made with silver wire and purple beads. Right now I'm not sure I like crocheting with wire. The whole process was very tedious and I am such a perfectionist that I wanted all the chains to be the same. The advice I was given was not to fight it and let the crochet hook do the work. That's what I tried to do. The only change I made was to twist the strands (I made four) before attaching the clasp. It is a pretty necklace and one I will wear, I just doubt if I'll make another one anytime soon.

Projects in Progress

This is the start of my very first attempt to design a garment. I want to make a cotton lace top that fits loosely so a tank top can be worn underneath, or it could be worn as a vest during the colder months.

So far I have a swatch completed. It is made from size 10 mercerized cotton. Yes, it will take a lot of thread and will take some time and it uses a small steel hook. I don't mind. Many of my very first projects were doilies and Barbie-doll-type clothes. The next step is to block the swatch for the gauge. Then the sizing charts, graph paper, and a calculator will take over my work area.

Wish me luck!

What I Am Reading

Still reading Saving Fish From Drowning, by Amy Tan. I haven't gotten very far this week. Our Americans think they are guests of a primitive village, while the village people think one of the Americans is a god re-incarnated--I think.

Other Stuff

There isn't a whole lot going on in my area of the country. The weather is beautiful for late August and the pollen count is very high. I did find out some of my health issues are due to allergies, so the better part of the weekend has been spent trying to get rid of as much dust and pet dander as I can. This is turning in to a very difficult job, especially with two dogs who spend a lot of time in the house. If I can keep them out of the bedroom, I can at least have a pet dander/dust free place to sleep.

I am slowly getting more items up at DinaMarieCrochet. Come on over and check it out. I am still offering 10% off. Use BLOGGER01 for the coupon code. Once I get everything in, I just may have to have a bigger sale.

Have a good week!

The Chiton Pullover

Chiton Pullover

Designed by Melissa Wehrie

Knitscene Winter/Spring 2011

Made with Reynolds Cricket

This simple pullover is very simple and I absolutely love it! The directions are clear and easy to follow and, most important, it fits just like it is supposed to fit. Even though the temperature is still a little warm, cooler days will be here soon. I can wear this now as is and in the fall I can layer it with a long sleeve t-shirt.

Projects in Progress

I don't have anything in progress now as I just finished up all my projects (for now). See below for more information.

What I Am Reading

Here is an update on Saving Fish From Drowning, by Amy Tan. I am really enjoying this book, although it is taking me some time to read. Not because it is difficult, but I just haven't had much time. I did get a sense of the explanation of the title. On page 162 of my edition the phrase is explained as a Burmese phrase of the Buddhist belief in not killing animals. (Warning. this is a long quote, but I feel it is needed.):

"...They (Burmese fishermen) scoop up the fish and bring them to shore. They say they are saving fish from drowning. Unfortunately...the fish do not recover.

"...Did these people actually believe they were doing a good deed? Why, they had no intention of saving anything! Look at those fish. They were gasping for oxygen, and the sellers who squatted nearby, smoking their cheroots, hardly possessed the caring demeanor of emergency doctors or hospice workers. 'It's horrible,' she said at last. 'It's worse than if they just killed them outright rather than justifying it as an act of kindness.'

"'No worse than what we do in other countries,' Dwight said.

"'...Saving people for their own good'".

I am at the point were something bad may be happening to the travelers. Their tour guide is definitely missing.

Other Stuff

I do apologize for not blogging for the last couple of weeks. I have been more than a little under the weather. My health is getting better. If I would slow down, I'm sure I would feel a lot better.

I have also been getting ready for the local arts fair, which was yesterday. I am a little disappointed with the fair. Not the fair itself. The day was perfect for an outdoor event and, considering this was only the third year for this particular event and the number of booths doubled from last year, the event was well organized. My disappointment was that not many people were buying. I know the economy is not good, and after talking to experienced vendors, I don't feel as bad since they are having the same problems. People are looking, but not buying. My very sweet neighbors in the booth next to me advised me not to give up. Many thanks to my friends who stopped by to offer their support. I am truly blessed.

I did learn a lot from my first time out as a vendor--I need bigger tables! Some displays would also be nice. I have a year to get more things ready and to find a bargain on tables and displays.

My Etsy shop is a little empty right now, but it will be back to full soon. Give me a week or two as I am also going to make some updates with the store.

Finally, as you may have heard, we had a horrible tragedy at our Indiana State Fair when the wind from a storm toppled the stage for a concert. Many people were injured and so far, six people lost their lives. My husband's cousin is one of the seriously injured and she is still in an induced coma. Please keep her and all the victims and their families in your hearts as we work through this terrible disaster.

Have a good week!

Knit and Crochet Show

There isn't much to report for this week. We got back last night from spending five days in Minneapolis, Minnesota for the Summer Knit and Crochet Show sponsored by CGOA and TKGA.

This conference was awesome! I met some new friends and attended three classes. I learned from Joan Davis how to properly take measurements and consider the different types of ease when choosing the size of garment to make. Also from Joan Davis, I took a class in crochet camisoles that fit. My last class was a fun bead crochet class (see picture above), Double Helix Crochet Necklace & Bracelet, taught by Darla Fanton. I spent way too much money at the vendors market.

Now I'm home and need to go back to work tomorrow so I can start saving up for the next conference in 2012. I also need to figure out when I'm going to have time to implement some great ideas for designing and to use up the yarn I came home with.

Have a good week!

Drum Roll Please

63 Easy to Crochet Pattern Stitches Combine to Make an Heirloom Afghan

Leisure Arts

Here it is--all finished!! It is very colorful and doesn't really match my decor; however, my dogs like it. This project was a lot of fun. Some of the stitches were pretty boring and some were a really interesting--none were very difficult.

Projects in Progress

This week I made four placemats, four coasters, four can cozies, and a poop bag dispenser. These are made from Lily Sugar 'n Cream, light blue and faded denims, and stitched in single crochet. If they don't sell at the arts fair, then I'm keeping them. I little Scotchgard sprayed and they will last forever.

This swatch is for a pullover I am going to knit for myself. The yarn is Reynolds Cricket, a 52% Rayon and 48% Wool DK yarn, in a light purple. The yarn is very soft and looks like a heather yarn. I found this yarn in the clearance room at a local yarn shop and I can't seem to find too much about it on the internet. I hope it was on clearance because the owner just needed room for the summer yarn and not because the yarn has been discontinued. If my sweater goes well, I have other things I'd like to make with this yarn. There was a really pretty natural color. The only difficulty I see with working the yarn is that it is loosely spun and tends to split.

What I Am Reading

I am making slow progress on Saving Fish from Drowning, by Amy Tan. Most of the people in this book appear to be the typical ugly Americans traveling to countries they know nothing about and, therefore, are getting into trouble. On the side, this book also give insight to the culture and history of a country I don't know too much about--China.

Other Stuff

My grandson spent the past week with us. He is ten years old and so much fun. We had a basketball camp where I work and he attended the camp for the week. Then we saw the new Harry Potter movie in 3D--good movie--and we stuffed ourselves with nachos and cheese and soda. He then spent the night at my in-law's farm and rounded off the week having dinner at our favorite Mexican restaurant. We really should do this type of thing more often. I really enjoyed the time spent with him--I hope he did, too.

Next week in the Knit and Crochet show in Minneapolis, Minnesota. I can't wait!

Have a good week!

Week 63 Challenge--Final Block

#52 Up and Down Stitch

63 Easy to Crochet Pattern Stitches Combine to Make an Heirloom Afghan

Leisure Arts

This is my favorite go-to stitch. It works for anything and gives a nice texture. Next week I will have a picture of the afghan all put together with the edging.

Projects in Progress

I am working desperately on getting things completed before the art fair. This is the latest hat and scarf done in a Crossed Double Crochet Stitch. There was just enough left to knit one pair of fingerless mittens. All my ideas for stitches come from The Ultimate Sourcebook for Knitting and Crochet Stitches, Reader's Digest. The book has more knitting stitches than crochet stitches, but it's something I can go to for reference for anything I'd like to make. There are other stitchonaries out there and someday I'll get more for crochet stitches.

What I am Reading

Because all my extra time has been spent working on items for the art fair, I haven't had much time to read, so Saving Fish from Drowning is still on the shelf. So far we are just getting to know the characters. The book is told from the point of view of a woman who has recently died. If I'm understanding this correctly, the woman is telling the story to a medium.

Other Stuff

The Knit and Crochet Show in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is in just over a week. My homework is done and my notebook is packed and ready. Can you tell I'm excited? I'm not sure about which projects to take to work on while there, but I have a feeling that once I take the course on creating a camisole, I'll be shopping at the market area looking for the perfect yarn to make myself a camisole.

The heat is on again in the midwest. I don't know about anyone else, but I am getting tired of hearing about the heat index. It's hot and hot is hot no matter how hot it is.

Have a good week!

Week 62 Challenge

#23 Slant Stitch

63 Easy to Crochet Pattern Stitches Combine to Make an Heirloom Afghan

Leisure Arts

This is an easy stitch to crochet and I think really unusual. I like it! One more block and then the edging. WooHoo!!!

Projects in Progress

I have nineteen days until the Art Fair and need to get crackin' on getting some things done. This is a hooded scarf (scood) knitted in moss stitch. I even had enough left over to make two pairs on knitted fingerless mittens, each in a different size.

This is a swatch for a crochet hat and scarf in Crossed Double Crochet Stitch. I get most of my stitch ideas from Reader's Digest's, The Ultimate Sourcebook of Knitting and Crochet Stitches. The swatch worked up quickly, so the hat and scarf should work up quickly, too.

What I Am Reading

Girl With a Pearl Earring is finished. This was a pretty quick read and I guess it could be called a page-turner. For some reason, I wasn't happy with the ending. I'm not sure why, except that it just ended. If you want something low key and fun to read, I would recommend this book; but if you are looking for a message, I don't think it's there.

Now I am reading Saving Fish From Drowning by Amy Tan. Tan is probably one of my favorite contemporary authors. I had a chance to see her at a lecture sponsored by a local university. She was both insightful and entertaining--just like her novels. I've just started, so there isn't much yet to report except for this: "...and I learned to hide from pain. I hid my deepest feelings so well I forgot where I had placed them". There are times when I wished I could feel like that and other times I'm glad I don't. Without feelings, what are we?

Other Stuff

The weather has turned so stinkin' hot, that I can't stand it. Summers in the American Midwest does sometimes get hot, but I can't remember heat indexes over 110 degrees. My office is air conditioned, but the gyms are not. I found myself putting off taking a restroom break just so I wouldn't have to go out of the office. Then the power went off this afternoon, so I went home.

Have a good week!

Week 61 Challenge

#3 Double Crochet

63 East to Crochet Pattern Stitches Combine to Make an Heirloom Afghan

Leisure Arts

Two more weeks and then the wrap up. WooHoo!

Projects in Progress

I call this "The Invasion of Chemo Caps". This project started as a call from a crochet guild's challenge to other crochet guilds to crochet chemo caps in time for the Knit and Crochet Show in Minneapolis taking place at the end of July. I took up the challenge with the goal to have at least a dozen caps finished. I think those dozen caps multiplied when I wasn't looking. Seriously, I crochet projects such as these to relieve stress. The rhythm of a basic single crochet cap takes the day's tension out of the shoulders and then I can relax to work on more complicated projects. Well, there has been more than my share of daily tension lately, so I took my frustration out on the caps; all for a good cause.

This is a swatch I made for the next hooded scarf. It is a basic moss stitch that I will use all over and maybe into some matching fingerless mittens. Stay tuned for updates.

What I Am Reading

For the first time in a long time, I had to put down a book. 1984 is back on the shelf for awhile, not because it isn't a good book, but because my mood just couldn't tolerate the darkness of humanity expressed in that book. I'll get back to it someday.

Now I am reading Girl With a Pearl Earring, by Tracy Chevalier. I'm not too far into the book, but I am enjoying the story. Chevalier has done what I always like to do when visiting art museums--make up a story to go with the picture.

Other Stuff

This is a holiday weekend in the United States. The Fourth of July is when we celebrate our independence, honor our founders, eat potato salad, and shoot off fireworks.

Please visit my Etsy store. The price on some older items has been lowered and I am now offering 10% off for all my readers. Just use the coupon code: BLOGGER01. As always (and for now), shipping is free.

Have a good week!

Week 60 Challenge

#60 Cluster Square

63 Easy to Crochet Pattern Stitches Combine to Make an Heirloom Afghan

Leisure Arts

This didn't come out looking very much like the picture and I'm not sure why. The directions were a little off, or maybe I was having a day where I was a little off, and I had a hard time getting everything lined up like it should. I very seldom have problems with Leisure Arts directions, but I just could not get this one. Three more to go! And I have picked my next "challenge".

Projects in Progress

99 Snowflakes

Leisure Arts

I don't know what happened to the color on this picture. It should be white snowflakes on a blue background. However, this is the last of the snowflakes. I'm not sure how many their are; I didn't do the snowflakes with beads or any of the 3D snowflakes. I may save those for later.

Other than the snowflakes, I've just been working on chemo caps. That's another one I'm not sure how many I have, but am getting ready to wrap up that project.

What I Am Reading

I've been trying to read George Orwell's 1984, but can't seem to get into it. This is a dark and depressing novel. I'm under a lot of stress, so I don't need dark and depressing. Instead, I've been reading my Bible. I do try not to get political or religious on this blog, but I would like to share with you a line from a Psalm. This is from Psalm 19, verse 14:

May the words of my mouth and the

meditation of my heart

be pleasing to your sight

O Lord, my Rock and my

Redeemer.

What wonderful words to live by; may the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to your sight. If only more people would live by those words.

Other Stuff

Like I said, I've been under a lot of stress this past week, so there isn't much in the way of other stuff. Working on the chemo caps is a great stress reliever and so is riding my bike. I've been doing a lot of both this past week.

Have a good weekend!

Week 59 Challenge

#31 Check Stitch

63 Easy to Crochet Pattern Stitches Combine to Make an Heirloom Afghan

Leisure Arts

This is an interesting stitch and very easy to do. I can see it in just about anything depending on the type of yarn used. A soft cotton would make a nice face cloth; wool would make a nice lacy cardigan or shrug; and a sock yarn would make a nice scarf.

Four more to go! I still haven't decided which challenge to take up. It could be my challenge will be to just get some projects complete. That could take some time.

Projects in Progress

99 Snowflakes

Leisure Arts

After struggling with commercial made fabric stiffener, I came up with an old standby--a bottle of starch. Using a glass measuring cup, measure around 1-1/2 cups of starch with 1/2 cup of water. Put the snowflake (or doily) in the cup and let it soak for a few minutes. When taking it out, don't squeeze out all the liquid. The more liquid, the stiffer the snowflake will be. Lay the snowflake out on a blocking board and pin. I use a clear plastic ruler to make sure all points are the same length. When finished, the ruler just needs a wipe with a cloth. It may take longer for the snowflake to dry, but the results are worth it and money saving.

Floral Wrap

Designed by Shannon Mullett-Bowlsby

I also made the shawl to wear to a crochet conference I am going to this summer. I've never been to a conference that's just about crochet, but I have been to other conferences for work. It seems those meeting rooms are always just a little bit more than chilly. I'll be ready with my pretty wrap. This picture isn't very good; I'll try to get a better one up soon.

I'm still working on chemo caps. Next up must be something for my Etsy shop. It's time to get some fall and winter things up.

What I am Reading

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is finished. Is there going to be a sequel? How about a prequel? There's room for both the way the book ended.

I'm not sure what I am going to read next. Maybe it's time to give my eyes a little break and listen to a book for a little change.

Other Stuff

Not much else to report this week. Yesterday, in the United States, was Father's Day. Like Mother's Day, this is when we remember our fathers in a special way. My father died in 1987 and a day doesn't go by that I don't miss him. After all, I was Daddy's Little Girl. Ask my brothers--they'll agree.

We have had some heavy rain here today. The driving was very scary. I found myself in the middle of a flooded intersection. My little car got me through just fine, but it's not something I want to do again.

Have a good week!

Week 58 Challenge

#4 Treble Crochet

63 East to Crochet Pattern Stitches Combine to Make an Heirloom Afghan

Leisure Arts

Yes, I know that's not a crochet block. This week's block is just too ugly and boring to print, so here's a picture of Truvy, the lazy dog.

Treble crochet has its place, but as a block for a afghan, weeeelllll, it just doesn't fit. Treble Crochet clusters would have been nice.

Projects in Progress

Yes, I know that's not a knitted or crocheted project. I've been very busy with a big project that has a due date, so nothing was worked on this week except for the project. Instead, you have a picture of my hydrangea bush, which just started blooming.

What I Am Reading

I have managed to get a little reading done this week. We also watched the the movie, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows, Part 1. The movie covered the part of the book that I have read so far. I have to say I was a little disappointed with the movie, but that is what happens when I read the book first then watch the movie. I know it's hard to cover everything in a short time span, but it seemed like some things were left out that could have been done without any extra movie time. Like the wedding. In the book Harry was disguised as a cousin of the Weasleys so that no one would know that Harry was there. Harry was not disguised in the movie. To me, that took away from the danger Harry was in if anyone reported a sighting of Harry Potter. Anywho, so much for that.

Other Stuff

I don't have any other stuff this week since I've been working exclusively on the project. So here is a picture of my hollyhocks, which have also just started to bloom.

My Etsy shop will have a little updating this week.

Have a good week!

Week 57 Challenge

#45 Crossed Ripple Stitch

63 Easy to Crochet Pattern Stitches Combine to Make an Heirloom Afghan

Leisure Arts

This stitch has an interesting texture. It's a little lacy, but it's not lace. I can think of lots of ways to use this including and little cardi in cotton.

Projects in Progress

99 Snowflakes

Leisure Arts

I made lots of snowflakes this week, but got behind in the starching. Above is a photo of the starched snowflakes. Below is the stack waiting to be starched.

I've run into a little problem with the starching. I ran out of what I was using and am now using a different brand. The first was a clear liquid; the starching was good except for the larger snowflakes. The stiffener I'm using now is like glue and I think it gets the snowflakes too stiff. Also my t-pins are starting to rust. Guess it's time to bite the bullet and buy more. I think I bought these well over 25 years ago and they cost $1.12. I wonder what they are now?

What I Am Reading

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is about half-way finished. I haven't seen the movie, so I'm having a hard time keeping people from telling me what is going to happen. The themes in this book are interesting. Purebloods and Muggleborns--sound familiar?

I've also found an interesting book: The Impossible Will Take a Little While: a Citizen's Guide to Hope in a Time of Fear, edited by Paul Rogat Loeb. This is a collection of essays all about, well, being good citizens. One essay started an good discussion at the dinner table. Marian Wright Edelman's essay, "Standing Up for Children", is about taking care of all our children as they are our future. Here is the quote that really got the discussion going and how it relates to the current cuts in education.

"...we have the responsibility to ensure all children what we now provide for some children. God did not make two classes of children and will hold us accountable for every one of them" (37).

Think about that.

Other Stuff

Now that summer is here, there isn't much time for everything I would like to do. One would think that with the longer days, there would be more time.

Don't forget to visit my Esty store. I'll be making some updates soon.

Have a good week!

Week 56 Challenge

#12 Open Ridge Stitch

63 Easy to Crochet Pattern Stitches Combine to Make an Heirloom Afghan

Leisure Arts

I'm not too sure how I feel about this one. How would I use it?

Projects in Progress

99 Snowflakes

Leisure Arts

More snowflakes.

I really need to get started on something new for Etsy.

What I am Reading

Lord of the Flies is finished. This week's quote is at the end of the book when the boys are rescued. "Ralph wept for the end of innocence, the darkness of man's heart..." It makes you wonder. Would all this have happened if adults had been stranded? Maybe it would. If you like a book without happy endings, this one is for you.

I've started the final Harry Potter book. More on that next week.

Other Stuff

There isn't much to report this week. Most of the evenings were spent hiding in the basement and praying no tornadoes came our way. We were lucky--many were not.

Today is also Memorial Day Weekend, a time to remember all who have given their lives in the service of our country. I personally, have not been effected by war, but I know many have lost husbands, wives, sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, and good friends. Blessings to them and their families.

Have a good week!

Week 55 Challenge

#30 Eyelet Lace

63 Easy to Crochet Pattern Stitches Combine to Make an Heirloom Afghan

Leisure Arts

I call this a shell stitch. A very easy stitch for just about everything.

This is the last 9 weeks for the challenge. Eight more blocks and the edging. The downside of the as-you-go attaching of the blocks is that I don't get the chance to block the square before attaching. Well, I guess I could block then crochet the attach row. Next time.

Projects in Progress

99 Snowflakes

Leisure Arts

Must make snowflakes...

Must make snowflakes...

We are the Borg...

Resistance is futile...

Must make snowflakes...

What I am Reading

Lord of the Flies. by William Golding so far is an interesting study on human nature set on an island and the survivors are very young to adolescent boys. There are those who are interested in playing and those who are interested in rescue, which results in a power struggle. There are still a few more chapters to read and struggle has hit a turning point. I'll have more next week.

This week's quote from Lord of the Flies is from third chapter: "He wanted to explain how people were never quite what you thought they were".

Other Stuff

This has been a busy time. The grandson has been spending a lot of time at our house every weekend after his Little League games. He likes the trail that goes past our house and the fact that he can ride a bike without worrying about getting run over by a car; he likes Truvy and she likes him (Truvy likes children and old people. She turns into a completely different dog--still sweet, but less rambunctious.); and I think he just likes hanging out with us old folks especially when a trip to Dairy Queen is involved.

Have a good week!

Week 54 Challenge

#29 Alternate Spike Single Crochet

63 Easy to Crochet Pattern Stitches Combine to Make an Heirloom Afghan

Leisure Arts

The spike stitch is probably the most versatile stitch I can think of. Use a cotton yarn and you have a dishcloth; use a double thickness and you have a hot pad or potholder; use something lightweight and soft and you have an elegant, yet warm, scarf.

Next week starts the last nine-block column, then the edging. What shall I do next? I have a couple of ideas. One is to go back to something I did in earlier blogs and create something that ties in with a book I am reading. Another is to pick a book or magazine and work through every pattern. I've been scouring the used book stores and antique book stores, but nothing has jumped out at me yet. I've still got a few more weeks before I decide. In the meantime, suggestions are always welcomed.

Projects in Progress

99 Snowflakes

Leisure Arts

I am getting a little tired of snowflakes. But I must push on. Knowing me as well as I do, I'm afraid that if I start another project--just to break up the monotony of snowflakes--I won't get back to the snowflakes until the week before gift giving time. So I'll continue (sigh!).

A little hint for snowflake starching: Fabric stiffener works fine, but for the larger snowflakes, I've used my doily starching methods--soak the fabric in a heavy starch and water mixture, then stretch out, pin, and let dry. It may take a little longer, but the process is worth it--you won't have limpy snowflakes.

For grins, I dumped all the completed chemo caps out on the dining room table. How many are there? I don't know. What's the goal? I don't know.

Working on chemo caps is a great stress reliever. There is no difficult stitch pattern to memorize, only the increases. I'll work on chemo caps when I get a lunch break and then I'm ready to tackle the afternoon's work head on. When I get home, I'll work on a chemo cap until I can relax. Once I relax and get in a rhythm, I can go to work on something a little more difficult--like snowflakes.

What I am Reading

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is finished. I think I am one of the very few people who cried over Dumbledore's funeral.

Next up is Lord of The Flies, by William Golding. I read this before in high school, so reading it as an adult should be interesting. As as adult, I am sure I'll have a very different perspective than I did as a teenager.

Other Stuff

I've given in to the allergy season and have decided to just put up with the itchy eyes and stuffy head. This is a picture of the start of my outdoor oasis. The glider sets in the shade of our Bradley Pear tree. I still need to do a little bit of leveling, but I'm liking it. We'll see how far I get this summer with adding more of the things I like.

That's all for now. Have a good week!

Week 53 Challenge

#58 Soft Clusters

63 Easy to Crochet Pattern Stitches Combine to Make an Heirloom Afghan

Leisure Arts

Between the really soft yarn and the stitch pattern--I really like this one!

Projects in Progress

99 Snowflakes

Leisure Arts

I haven't had a chance to work on much more than the challenge, snowflakes, and chemo caps. Snowflakes are easy to crochet--but a bear to starch!! Just warning ya!

What I am Reading

I did find a quote this week from Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince.

Dumbledore to Harry:

"Ah, Harry, how often this happens, even between the best of friends! Each of us believes that what he has to say is much more important than anything the other might have to contribute!"

Other Stuff

This week's post is short for a reason. It's Mothers' Day. I've spent the better part of today with my daughters and grandchildren and it has been a wonderful day. The weather even cooperated, which was doubtful during last night's thunderstorms and tornadoes.

Happy Mother's Day and have a good week.

Week 52 Challenge

#57 Alternate Mesh Stitch

63 Easy to Crochet Pattern Stitches Combine to Make an Heirloom Afghan

Leisure Arts

An OK block. I love filet crochet and this is somewhat similar. I can't believe this challenge is almost done! What should I do next as a challenge? Suggestions anyone?

Projects in Progress

Dazzling Details Jacket

Designed by Garnstudio/Drops

Crochet! Magazine, September 2009

Yarn: Baby Bee Sweet Delight, Grape Jelly

I gotta say, I love this jacket! It's just too bad that the weather is finally warming up and the jacket will need to be put in storage with my other sweaters.

99 Snowflakes

Leisure Arts

Every year after our Thanksgiving Brunch, all our guests get handmade Christmas ornaments. Last year I gave everyone a set of crochet clothespin angels. This year I am giving snowflake ornaments. No, I don't plan to make all 99 snowflakes!

What I am Reading

After reading Beloved, I need something a little lighter. So, instead of diving into another literary classic, I am reading Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling. I don't have any soul-searching quotes this week; just reading for fun.

Other Stuff

There isn't much else going on in my world. The pollen counts are very high and keeping me indoors. I hate that, because I am a big outdoors person. My garden is calling me! Looks like it is time to get a mask I can wear when working outside.

On another note, my work area is a mess. I have so many projects going right now that it is time to stop starting new projects and get the old ones completed. I, at least, have good intentions.

Please visit my shop on Etsy.

Have a good week!

Week 51 Challenge

#28 Boxed Shells

63 Easy to Crochet Pattern Stitches Combine to Make an Heirloom Afghan

Leisure Arts

This is a basic shell stitch that is so simple that it's pretty. This summer I am taking a workshop on designing and I plan to use this stitch for a lacy shell top.

Projects in Progress

Dazzling Details Jacket

Design by Garnstudio/Drops Design

Crochet! September 2009

Baby Bee Yarn Sweet Delight, Grape Jelly

The jacket is not quite done. I still have the pockets and then blocking. It is soooooooooooo soft. The pattern calls for buttons on the cuff, but I am going to skip that. Large buttons on cuffs tend to get in my way. The only other change I made was to make the jacket a little longer.

What I am Reading

This week I finished Beloved by Toni Morrison. In this quote Paul D is remembering his various escapes and once again, love comes through:

"And in all those escapes he could not help being astonished by the beauty of this land that was not his. He hid in its breast, fingered its earth for food, clung to its banks to lap water and tried not to love it. On nights when the sky was personal, weak with the weight of its own stars, he made himself not love it. Its graveyards and low-lying rivers. Or just a house--solitary under a chinaberry tree; maybe a mule tethered and the light hitting its hide just so. Anything could stir him and he tried hard not to love it."

Beloved is a harsh book about slavery, not just the facts, but how the people enslaved felt and the extremes they went to for freedom, for themselves and for the children they were forbidden to love.

On a side note, the last page of the book says several times: "This is not a story to pass on." This reminds me of the "Notice" before the beginning of Huckleberry Finn . Mark Twain states: "Persons attempting to find a motive in this narrative will be prosecuted; persons attempting to find a moral in it will be banished; persons attempting to find a plot in it will be shot. BY ORDER OF THE AUTHOR." With this Twain dares his book to be critiqued...Morrison is daring readers to pass the story on and I pass it on to you. Read it.

Other Stuff

Today is Easter Sunday. We had to cancel our traditional egg hunt today because of the rain that won't go away. No matter your religion, blessings to you on this day.

Have a good week!

Week 50 Challenge

#50 Picot Stitch

63 Easy to Crochet Pattern Stitches Combine to Make an Heirloom Afghan

Leisure Arts

I kind of like this one. At first I wasn't too sure if this stitch can be used for anything else, but after looking at it for a few days I can see some possibilities. Thirteen more to go!

Projects in Progress

Baby Shells

I Love This Yarn, Cranberry and Cranapple Stripes.

The baby blanket is finished and presented to the mother-to-be. This isn't a color I would choose for a baby, but it's what my friend wanted and she happy with it. And, I got it completed with six week to go!

The blanket is somewhat based an a pattern from 7-Day Afghans. If the directions are followed, the blanket feels more like a rug. So I changed it. Instead of using two strands of yarn, I used one. The same size hook is used. I also worked a row of single crochet around the blanket before starting the edging. The edging is three rows of the shell stitch worked with a single strand of contrast yarn.

Dazzling Details Jacket

Designed by Garnstudio/Drops Design

Crochet! September 2009

Baby Bee Yarn, Grape Jelly

I did my research on this one and the only corrections are very minor. Several people on Ravelry have made it with no problems. So far, I'm lovin' it. The pattern is working up quickly and it is so soft. I'm going to try to keep this one for myself, but I can see one of my daughters wanting it.

What I am Reading

This week's quote from Beloved, by Toni Morrison, is keeping with the theme of loving and the freedom to love:

"He knew exactly what she meant: to get to a place where you could love anything you choose--not to need permission for desire--well, now that was freedom."

Think about. Things we take for granted aren't there for everyone. Could you live like that?

Other Stuff

Today was my grandson's birthday party. Last week he turned four-years-old. It's hard to believe. He is such a little man. As he was opening his presents, he made sure to thank everyone by name and he thank everyone for being there. Such a sweetie, but I'm his grandma.

Please check out DinaMarieCrochet at Etsy.

Have a good week!