Peachy Keen Spring Afghan

I've been feeling a bit overwhelmed, as of late. There is so much going on. With life in general. Then you add in, all these new babies. Weeks away from making their "Grand Entrance." And I'm behind. Way behind!!!

So I've been crocheting. Every possible, free second that I have, I'm crocheting. In the car. During my breaks. While I watch TV. When I'm reading blogs. Heck, when I'm talking on the phone. And I'm feeling "burnt out."

Tired of all the "regular" patterns. And the pastel colors. Heck, with blue and pink. But I'm trying not to "lose faith" here. I'm looking for new things. Making up baby blanket patterns. Opting for brighter colors of yarn. And searching out a few new patterns. Like this one.

I don't remember how I first found this pattern. But immediately, I wanted to make it. And as crazy as it sounds, I'm thinking "outside the box." I have a few skeins of chocolate brown yarn. And I'm thinking that would be a nice little present. Something that a new dad, won't mind carrying around.

Maybe after a random project like this, I'll be back to the pretty pastels. Because this peach really is pretty. Or maybe that blue-ish green color. Something slightly different. But still fitting for a new baby, and Spring. ♥  

Fairy Princess Crown

I've been searching for some fun little projects. Something that I can sit and make, you know, in a few short minutes. Because let's be real, I like a fast project. I like to sit down, and have something to show for my 10-15 minutes of work.

Not to mention, I've got a ton of beautiful Goddaughters. A ton! That LOVE dressing up. And when I make them a little present. So I'm searching for the perfect little "just 'cause" present. :) That's when I found Walker Whimsy. Such a cute blog! And this Fairy Princess Crown.

 



It looks like a fairly simple project. Something that you can adjust for kids of all ages. Can you just imagine, sisters wearing these? Like these little ones. Or these ones. Babies and little girls. 

 

Now I'm off to search through my yarn stash. This would be one of those perfect patterns, to use up your "scrap yarn." And now that we're on the road again, I'm sure I can make a few of these. Well, a bunch of them! Are you with me? ♥

From My Heart to Theirs...

Sometimes, you see something as a crafter, and say to yourself, "I MUST make that!" I had that feeling yesterday. You see, it's that "Time of Year" again. You know, when everyone I know, is having a baby. I'm not lying! From family to friends...co-workers to our favorite waitresses.

I'm feeling completely "Behind the Ball." I NEED to make a bunch of gifts. But I'm getting a little tired of the same patterns. So yesterday, I did a little searching. And found a lot of fun and new patterns. But none, grabbed my attention like this one.

I don't know what it is. Love is in the air. Babies are on the way. Sweet baby girls, ALWAYS steal my heart away!!! But this blanket, it's screaming for me to make it. No lie.

I'm not completely convinced with this color combination. I'm thinking something that says more "Baby Girl," rather than "Happy Valentine's Day." Don't get me wrong, I'd LOVE to make one for myself. To add to the "Love" decorations we got going on. But for my first take on this blanket, I'm thinking pink, white, and lavender.

And if you're just not "feeling" this lovely blanket, how about some potholders? The pattern says you can make dishcloths, but I'm thinking about potholders. Make 2 squares, and single crochet them together. That would be fun!!! ♥

Winter is in the Air

I don't know about you, but around here, the temps are starting to cool down. A lot! I'm starting to get into the Christmas spirit. As in, I want to start decorating, wrapping presents, and baking yummy Christmas goodness!!!

I know. It's barely, early November. I just can't help myself. I adore the cold weather. I live for "Holiday Decorating." Oh, and I just can't wait for all the yummy treats!

Yum! I was just thinking of my favorite hot chocolate. I've been making this, for close to 11 years now. I even remember the first time I made it. I burned my hand. Pretty bad. But boy, I didn't stop making this yummy goodness. It was almost too much, for me to bare. But darn, this is some good stuff!!!

How about a little fun treat. As in some "Baby Santa" gear! I have been wanting to make this, since it was posted. I even have the yarn. Darn, I need to just sit down, and get my "Crochet" on!!!

Yes, I'm totally in the holiday mood. I might even pull out the Christmas music. Is anyone else like me? Or am I the only one, counting down the days, until I can decorate. Putting up my decorations in November. And leaving them up, until late January. Yes, this is really a magical time of year! ♥

Perfect For Twins

My dear friends, Dawn and Alejandro, have only been married a short time. Just a few months. But they are expanding their family! :)

Shortly after returning, from their Honeymoon, the happy couple found out, they were expecting. And were so excited!!! Then just a few short weeks ago, they found out, there are 2 beautiful babies growing.

We are all so excited!!! Not just for the happy couple. But for their family. You definitely need to read Dawn's blog. To learn more, about her story. :)

Something that I really admire about Dawn is, she is a surviver. And an amazing mother. She is also a big reader. And encourages her kids, to read too! So when I was visiting one of my favorite blogs, I came across these sweet little hats!!!

Dawn and Alejandro, have been told the sex of their babies. They also let me know. :) But the doctors will not guarantee the results. Tomorrow marks 18 weeks. At 20 weeks, we will know for sure. 100%. That means, I need some "gender neutral" projects.

Can you see why this project is so perfect??? Oh, and it is even more perfect, when you take Alejandro's 1st "baby purchase." A stack of Dr. Suess books!!! I know. It doesn't get much better. Now, I better get crocheting. I've got double the gifts to make. ♥

I've Got to Get Creative...

I've got a few friends who are expecting. Some cutie patootie, babes they will be! My friends have asked me to do them a favor. Crochet them up some cute "photo props." Oh boy! I've got to make a little sock monkey outfit. And a few giraffe hats.

I don't have a pattern. Nor can I find one. But my friends, made sure to e-mail me the pictures, that they liked. I'm thinking, they are from Etsy. But I'm not sure.

 

Isn't this the cutest monkey, that you've ever seen? Boy, I'm in love!!! Now to figure out how to make this little outfit. I'm thinking, everything about this should be pretty easy. The hat looks like a basic, "ear flap hat." With a little face. The little diaper cover, shouldn't be too hard. I'm thinking, the toughest part of this, is going to be, figuring out those ears...

This giraffe seems a little more "complicated." Not by much. But still more thought, will have to go into it. I'm thinking, another basic "ear flap hat." The ears remind me of little leaves. It's those "horn type" things on top...that might be a bit of an issue.

Actually, I'm really excited about this. I think it should be fun. The monkey is for my good friend Dawn. And the giraffe, actually I need to make 2 of those. For my friend Amber. I work with her. And she's expecting twins in December. I better get moving! ♥

Oh Lion!

We are currently surrounded by babies. No lie! Between My Guy's family, friends, and co-workers. Then you have my family, friends, and co-workers. I swear, it's like it's "Raining Babies!"

But it's definitely a good thing! I LOVE babies!!! Why else, would I want to be a pediatrician? I especially LOVE snuggling up, with all these tiny babies. Smelling them. I swear, someone needs to bottle up the "Newborn Smell!"

I also LOVE to make stuff for the little ones! Ask anyone that knows me. Including the hospitals where I work. I make everyone, something. The kiddos at work, get some sort of amigurumi toy. Little ones that I know, are showered in all things baby! Sweaters, booties, hats, blankets, and toys. So when I took a minute to look around Stitch 11 again, I about died!!!



Just look at this hat! Oh my goodness! I don't even know where to begin. Or how to put it into words. But I just have to make one. OK, maybe 10! Definitely, Little Nephew will be getting one. And so will my little cousin. Now when can I start crocheting? ♥

What a Cute Zebra!!!

One of the dietitians that I work with, is expecting twin girls. In December. How exciting! And she's been asking me about different things, that I could make for her girls. Which makes me so excited! One thing that she asked for, was 2 Zebra hats. Since the girls are going to be born in the winter. She wants something cute, and warm. :)

I started searching. And kept finding basic hats, that are just black and white. Some have little ears. But nothing too exciting. Then I stumbled on this cutie! I do think the nose makes the entire hat! And that hair!!!




Immediately, I sent the picture to Amber. She LOVES it! She doesn't care if I make them pink. Or the more "traditional" black and white. So I'm going to try both.

Anyway, whatever Amber doesn't get, I can sell to another friend of ours. That is obsessed with all things Zebra. OBSESSED!!! I can just imagine if she saw this. She'd order it immediately. For her cute granddaughter! ♥

Hello Princess!!!

It's been a little rainy around here. OK, really rainy. And we're in the middle of Nowhere, PA. It's beautiful. But really, we're in the middle of nowhere. And this guy, has a full schedule today. Which means, I have to find ways to entertain myself.

For once, I completely went through my e-mail, associated with my good 'ol blog! Thanks to everyone who writes me. I wish I had more time to do this. But I'm so glad, to finally get through all my e-mails.

Somewhere in there, was an e-mail from a co-worker. She's expecting twin girls, in December. And asked me, if I could make some fun things, for her girls. My brain went into overdrive, and the list is now 25 items long. I guess I should e-mail it back to her. And find out what ideas she likes. :)

But during my search, I found 2 wonderful things. A new crochet blog, Stitch 11. That I'm in LOVE with! And this cute pattern.



Hello princess crowns! About 7 years ago, I made a few crowns. With the cutest pattern. Then I lost the pattern. :( And I've spent all this time looking for another. This one, is just too adorable! And for a baby. I've got some coral and pink yarn, the colors of the nursery. So I'm going to try my hand at 2. While watching the rain. And waiting for my bestie to come by. Or this guy to come back home! Happy Saturday! ♥

Oh No He Didn't!!!

I'm in my hometown for the weekend. My Guy is in Michigan working. Third weekend in a row...that I've had some sort of plans. This weekend, is another busy one. As in a family friend's graduation party tonight. Sofia's Baptismo tomorrow. And Father's Day on Sunday!

Our cellphones are becoming our best friends. No lie! One thing you should know about this guy is, he doesn't e-mail regularly. Not at all! So this morning, I was a little shocked to get an e-mail from him. So much so, I had to do a double take, when I was looking at my inbox.

When I opened the e-mail, I had to laugh. Because this picture, speaks volumes. Without much text!



"We should build a nursery like this. Then get busy fillin' her up! What do ya say?" This man just cracks me up! We talk about marriage and babies a lot!!! And I'm sure, he likes this nursery, because of the colors. Being that orange is his favorite color. :)

This is just not the time. But it was a fun e-mail to get. I'll definitely keep this in mind. Put this in the "Memory Bank." For one day. When we do decide to start a family. Because now, I know, this guy really enjoys the look of this nursery. ♥

Did You Say Minnie?

For Christmas, I made a few Hello Kitty hats. One was for my little cousin. She adores all things "girl!" And since Christmas, she's been wearing her little hat. Don't try and touch it, take it away, or hide it. Even in this warm weather, she is wearing an earflap hat!!!

But the truth of the matter is, she LOVES Minnie Mouse. So when I seen this crochet pattern, I just knew I had to print it out. Never mind that it is June. I'm starting this year's Christmas presents!!!




I just can't get over how cute these hats are. I think I can get a few done, before December. A few for my Goddaughters, nieces, and little cousins. Oh, I just can't wait!!! ♥

Baby Animals Blankie

I've been looking for a fun baby blanket to crochet. I've been crocheting, just as fast as I can! So many of my friend's are welcoming the most gorgeous babies!!! Two of my friends in particular, are too cute! They're married to 2 guys in the BBs. And love the "Good 'ol Farm Life!!!" So I needed something very special.

I took to Annie's Attic. To be honest, I hadn't searched this website in a long time! I'm still a little bitter, that they don't offer their "Free Daily Pattern" anymore. And that they longer sell 2 of my favorite patterns. That I can't find anywhere else. But I sucked it up. And took to searching.



That's when I found this adorable pattern!!! Baby Animals Blankie. Hello. It's just perfect! For these precious 2 baby girls. I bought it. Downloaded it immediately. And I've gotten to work. Never mind, that one of these sweet baby girls is already here! Her Nana is working, as fast as her crochet hook will go. :) ♥

The Perfect Little Dress

As you know, I've got tons of gorgeous Goddaughters. That I love dearly!!! I've been looking for some cute little patterns. Because I just adore, making them sweet little things. Maggie's Crochet, is one of my favorite websites, to buy patterns from. She's got some fun patterns. Things that I've never seen, anywhere else.

I found this little dress. The Madeline Pink Check Outfit. To me, it just screams Baby C! Except, it doesn't come in a small enough size. I bought it anyway. Took a look at the pattern. Read through it, and made some adjustments. To meet Baby C's size 3 months frame.



As I've been working on this adorable dress, I couldn't help but think of Miss Matilda. And I've started a larger one for her. Something she can wear, when the weather cools again. :) But let's not be fooled, I've got a Wish List at Maggie's Crochet, that's a mile long! I tell you, when I decide to have babies, I'm going to have to start crocheting years in advanced!!! ♥

So Fun!!!

I was doing a little research for some babies. Some beautiful baby girls. And I happened upon one of the cutest Etsy shops ever! Full of adorable accessories for baby girls. Sweet head pieces, that make me want a baby of my own!



I don't know what's cuter. The headband, the ruffle dress, or the baby! This would be so perfect for Miss Savannah Belle! I can't even begin to tell you, just how perfect it would be. This Nana just might have to order this! :)



"Hold the Phone!" I can't get over how cute this hat is. With the little veil. And all those flowers and feathers. Let's not forget that adorable little dress!



Lastly, I can't say enough about this whole ensemble! Totally reminds me of Baby Jelly. But the colors also remind of Gabi. Oh my goodness! This is so cute!

I want to order one of everything, from Miss Ruby Sue! And these adorable dresses, I want to make one in every color!!! I wonder how quickly My Guy and I, can make a couple of baby girls! :) Just kidding. But really, I might have to start ordering from this shop. For my Goddaughters!!! ♥

Easy Baby Afghan

If you haven't noticed, I've been in "Crochet Overload," lately. This is mostly because, so many babies are being born! I've fallen slightly behind, in some projects. And orders, are really starting to stack up.

But, I'm always looking for new patterns. Such as this beauty! From Anneliese. Who is currently, in the middle, of a series called, "Head-Over-Heels in Crochet." A GREAT series to check out! But this blanket reminds me a lot, of a blanket that I already make. The blanket that I'm used to, is from an old crochet book. Very similar. But with fringe.



I do have to admit this, I'm suddenly inspired. I want to make this blanket. In these colors. Doesn't it look beautiful? Oh I think so! And from experience, I know this type of blanket, works up quickly. Maybe, I can make one, before Rachael has my new Goddaughter! ♥

Crochet Along: Week 5

This week is exciting! We're beginning Week 5, of our Crochet Along. And at the end of this week, we'll be done with the basic pattern. The only thing left, will be the edging!

Our goal for this week is, rows 67-87. The same "Bunny Block," as Week 3. This is really exciting! Now I'm anxious, to finish up my blankets. :)



I have to confess, I'm a little behind this week. Work has been extra crazy. So today, I'll be taking a lot of time to crochet. :) My goal for the day, is rows 50-67. See, I told you, I fell behind. But I'm sure, that this week, will be much better! How are your blankets going? ♥

Crochet Along: Week 4

Happy Sunday! I think this Crochet Along, is a success! I've had so many positive e-mails this week. Which makes me smile! :) That's the whole reason, that Manders and I wanted to do this. To reach out to fellow crocheters. And create something beautiful, in the process.

This week, we're working on our third, "Bunny Block." Rows 46-66. Pretty much, it's exactly what we did, during Week 2. I'm really excited, to see how big our blankets are going to get. I can tell, this is going to be a good week!



This week, I fell a little behind. I was performing, early in the week. And late in the week, I was doing some last minute things, for my friend's Baby Shower. But I managed to get to row 45. I'm really excited, to have 2 "Bunny Blocks" done. But now, I kinda of wonder, how would the blanket look, if every other bunny, faced the opposite direction? Maybe I'll try that, on the next one! For now, I'm going to tackle rows 46-66! Have a GREAT week! ♥

Crochet Along: Week 3

Welcome Back Crochet Along friends! How are your blankets going? I'm moving along well. Still experimenting a little. With my smaller blanket. But all is well. This week's goal, is rows 25-45. That's one more "Bunny Block!" :) This set of bunnies, will be running in the opposite direction.



Don't worry if you didn't make it to row 24. Remember, we're not on a time crunch. We're just working on this, together. This is supposed to be something fun. Not stressful! Just keep that in mind. :)

I got a few e-mails this week. All having to do with the same "issue." The gauge, is just a little off. The chains are a little loose. And the double crochets, are too tight. So when you're looking at your work, it looks a little "messy."

I've worked on other filet blankets before. And I've worked on filet crochet...with thread. Your work, just doesn't look "neat." That is, your chains look too loose. And your double crochets, tootight. The double crochets "pull" at the chains. And the chains just look really loose. It has to do with the tension of your work. You just need to work on, making all your stitches similar, in tension. Don't stress. With yarn, especially a thicker yarn, it'd not as noticeable.

And remember, if you have a question, or concern, please leave Manders or I, a comment. Or send us an e-mail. That's what we're here for! At the end of this week, we're pretty much, halfway done with our blankets! Now that is exciting!!! ♥

Crochet Along: Some Tips

On Sunday, I had mentioned that I was starting a second blanket. I started it. Stopped, and looked. I was using 4 ply yarn, and a size H hook. But it seemed small. I found myself at a stop. I wanted a slightly larger blanket. One that I could cuddle up under. So I took it apart, and added another bunny block across. This means that you must start with a chain 185. The adjustment will give 5 blocks across. And I'm thinking my finished blanket is going to be 5X6.

Manders also mentioned that she was making a baby blanket. And she didn't like the original size of the pattern. She called me. And I gave her these new adjustments. She's using baby weight yarn, and a size G hook. And according to Manders, this makes for a blanket, that is "crib" size.



But that also got time thinking. I wanted to make a baby blanket. One to add to a growing collection. That I'm donating, to the NICU, where I work. I knew that the original was slightly, too large. Because those babies are itty bitty!

So I started playing with the pattern. I thought. 2 blocks, with more double crochets in between. Making a larger border. But I didn't like it. So I decided to go with, 3 blocks across. You start with a chain 113. Then continue with the pattern. I haven't decided yet, if I'm going to make it 3X3, or 3X4. We'll just have to wait and see. In case you were wondering, I'm using Baby Bernat Sport Yarn, in white. And a G hook.

I told you, that we are here to help out! I just wanted to share a few adjustments, in case you were interested. A few of you were. Because I received, about 10 e-mails, on Monday. I hope this helps. Personally, I think that the odd number of bunnies, is more pleasing to the eye. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask. Hopefully, this helps with your goal this week. See you Sunday! ♥

Crochet Along: Week 2

Welcome Back! It's Week 2 of our Crochet Along. And this week, we begin our projects. That means, we're crocheting! But first, how did your shopping go? Did you find everything you need? Were you like me? Sitting in the middle of the yarn aisle, trying to decide, which yarn you wanted. That was really me!

For Week 2, our goal is to begin our blankets. And work to row 24. That will complete the first block. Or what we're going to refer to as, a "Bunny Block." Which means, by Saturday, we should, have some cute bunnies to admire!



For me, I have to admit something. I started crocheting my blanket already! I started last week. Because I didn't have another project to work on. And we were on the road. I'm making a baby blanket, in a soft yellow color. Last Monday, I almost finished the first "Bunny Block." I know!

But don't fear. I'm starting a second one. In a pretty yellow, 4 ply yarn. I have no clue what the color is! Because the label, is not on, this skein of yarn. But it's more of a muted color. I was tempted to buy Red Heart's Bright Yellow. It's so pretty! But I'm making this for our living room. And the more muted color, goes better with our decor.

I know that Manders started her blanket as well. But only got 3 or 4 rows done. She was trying to work ahead. Just a bit. Because she is in the middle, of planning 2 birthday parties. And didn't want to fall behind. I told you, the Crochet Along, is just about an outline. More of a support system.

This week should be fun. And interesting. I want to get both of my blankets, to row 24. By Saturday! I'm positive that I can have it done. I'm really interested in seeing, what the size difference is going to be. Should be interesting.

Don't forget, if you have any problems or questions, please contact us. Or leave a comment. Maybe someone else is struggling too. We're a supportive group. Ready to help, wherever we can! Happy Crocheting! ♥