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!!! ♥

Sew, Mama, Sew! Giveaway Day

Hello everyone! Today is the day. Sew Mama Sew's Giveaway Day. And I just couldn't resist. I wanted to offer you guys a little treat.

By now, you should all know about my love of crochet. And Ana Paula Rimoli's patterns. I have her 4 books. And I'm pretty sure, I've bought all her patterns on Etsy. They're my "go-to," for gifts. I've not met a kiddo yet, that doesn't like one of these toys.

Tell me, get on with the giveaway! I know. I want to offer you a little of this crochet fun. And I'll be giving away a crochet package. What's in it??? One of these guys...

This is Ana's newest book. I'll also be including a $50 gift card for JoAnn's. You know, you need some yarn to make these. :) Maybe even some other supplies.

What do you have to do? Just leave me a comment, with your favorite person, to follow on Pinterest. My "other" addiction. Just ask this man! 1 comment. Simple. You have until Friday, December 7th. At 5PM PST. And don't forget to check Sew, Mama, Sew! for a ton of giveaways!!! Good Luck everyone!!! ♥

Little Owls

We're on the road this week. Which means, I've got to have a handy, little project to work on. "Little" is the keyword here. So I did a little search, and found this fun pattern!

I'm so excited about this pattern! Many people in my life, happen to adore owls! Oh, and I'm thinking, these could make some nice gifts. Or, a nice addition, to an upcoming Craft Fair. That my Mom and I will be selling at. Yes, I'm pretty excited about this pattern. By the way, a GREAT way to use up your scrap yarn. Happy Monday! ♥

Icy Day Cowl

There have been 2 things, running through my head lately. It's getting cold. As in, I need a jacket, and scarf cold. And the Craft Fair, that my Mom and I are selling at, is less than a month away. Two things, that are putting me into "high gear."

I took a little time, yesterday, to search for some patterns. That would help in both of these areas. What did I come up with? A cute cowl.

I honestly adore this. Not necessarily in these colors. But I adore this cowl! I've started one for me. In grey. And I'm finding, that it's simple. As in, I can make a few of these, for the upcoming Craft Fair. Maybe in some more "Festive Colors." I might just spend my evening crocheting. And maybe watching a few movies, with My Love. ♥

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! ♥

Stunning Shawl: Week 2

Hi everyone! Welcome to "Week 2" of our "Crochet Along!" This is the week, we actually crochet. That is exciting, all by itself!

Our goal for this week, is going to be to work rows 1-9. That means we're starting our Stunning Shawl. And working a second "section." Not too bad. And this will allow us all to ease into our projects. I know school has started for most kids/people. This should be an achievable goal for the week.



I got a few questions this week. All about yarn. Individually, I answered the questions. But I thought I'd post something about it here. I was asked if you could use the "One Pounder," from Lion Brand. As in the "Baby Yarn." Yes, you can. It will make your shawl a little more "delicate." Probably a little smaller, and lighter as well. You might also have to go down a size in hook. Just to make your work look neat.

And I've gotten a few comments about Red Heart's large skeins of "Super Sport." That would also be a great way to go. Then you wouldn't have to hide extra threads, from connecting the 2 skeins of yarn.

Remember, if you have any questions, comments, or concerns feel free to contact my Mom or I. You can also e-mail us at CraftyMomLoves (at) aol (dot) com. Or SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com. You can also send us pictures, of your shawls. That's always fun to see! Have a wonderful week. And we'll see you next Sunday!!! ♥

We All Scream for Ice Cream

Not going to lie here. I've been in a bit of an "amigurumi" mood lately. Like for the last 2 months. I've been making all sorts of things. Everything from fun toys, to yummy food.

Today, I was chatting with My Guy 's sister, K. She was telling me, that Little K is all about ice cream right now. I know what you're thinking. All kids love ice cream. But this girl, is a little obsessed. She wants to make everyone, a nice treat. All the time.

So I was thinking. There has to be some fun ice cream crochet patterns out there. Something I could make. And she'd enjoy playing with. Something that didn't involve "real" ice cream. All it's calories. And mess. Look what I found. :)



This afternoon, I whipped up all the parts for 6 cones. I just need to put them together. Which would mean a quick run to the store. I'm all out of stuffing. :( But honestly, this is such an easy pattern! You have to try it out. I'm sure your little ones will enjoy it too! ♥

Stunning Shawl: Week 1

Welcome Back! It's "Week 1" of our little "Crochet Along." My Mom and I are impressed by all the interest!!! Looks like everyone likes the Stunning Shawl. As of this morning, we have 59 people signed up. Yay!!!

This week, we're starting off easy. You just need to print out this pattern. And buy your supplies. You'll need a size H (5.5mm) hook. And 2 skeins of your favorite yarn. About 14 oz.



I went with a new yarn. I have no clue what it's called. I know it's by Red Heart. But the wrappers were all taken off of the yarn. It's not the "regular" Red Heart "Super Sport." Something new, that Wal-Mart had. And it's super soft! I bought 2 skeins of plum.

Next week, we start our crocheting. :) Just wanted to start off easy. If you have any questions, or still want to sign up, leave my Mom or I a comment. And we can't wait to see you next week! ♥

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? ♥

Crochet Along: Stunning Shawl

Do you remember when I told you about a new "Crochet Along?" Well, my Mom and I have been debating a pattern, for about a month now. I know! But there are so many choices. We thought about something with thread. Because she's awesome at it! Me, not so much!

Then we thought about an amigurumi project. You know, because I've now got her addicted to the stuff! Or maybe something for Fall. Maybe something to decorate with. Something for our homes.

But there was this one pattern, that we just kept going back to. One that was calling us. One that we couldn't resist. That would be, Red Heart's Stunning Shawl!



Do you love it? Do you want to be a part of our little "Crochet Along?" Well, you just have to leave my Mom or I a comment. Or an e-mail. My Mom's e-mail address is CraftyMomLoves (at) aol (dot) com. And mine is SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com.

That's it! From the time we start crocheting, to the end of the project, should be 6 weeks. Every week, we'll post a "goal." You are welcome to work past it. And it's OK, if you don't work quite as fast as our "goal."

This is just going to be a fun little group, all working on the same project. A cute shawl, that should come in handy this Fall. If you're like us, you're still battle the high 90s, and random triple digits. But soon enough, it will be cool. The perfect weather for this shawl.

We hope to see you next Sunday! Don't forget, if you have any questions, comments, or concerns, don't hesitate to contact us. Now, or when we start our projects. Have a wonderful week! ♥

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! ♥

Wise Owl Tote Bag: Week 5

And it's our final week! :) Are your bags looking cute? Why am I asking? So many of you, have sent me the most adorable pictures! And I'm inspired to make a few more bags. Because I want to try your color combinations. Please keep sending me your pictures! :)

This week, Cari reminded me that she starts school in 8 days!!! I guess it's a good thing, that we're almost done with our Wise Owl Tote Bags! This week, all we have to work on, is the heart. The one that goes in the middle. And well, if you need to catch up, this is the week to do it!



I also received lots of e-mails, about how I've sewn on the various pieces. Well, with the eyes, I sewed the buttons on the "white part." Then attached that part of the eye, to the larger piece. That larger piece, is the part that I actually attached to the bag itself. If you try to sew from the largest to the smallest, it gets a bit "bulky." And the inside of your bag, can look a bit messy.

Now for the beak, don't over stuff it. That will make it too "bulky" for this project. I then sewed the end shut. Making it slightly flat. When it's sewn together, it's easier to attach to the body.

Once I attached the beak to the body, I didn't like how it "bobbled" around. So I tacked the entire beak down, from the inside of the bag. I did this, in a small triangle. Smaller than the size of the beak, so the stitches stay "hidden."

I hope that everyone has enjoyed this "Crochet Along!" I'm already planning our next one. With my Mom!!! And if you have any questions, please send me an e-mail at SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com. Or leave Cari or I a comment.

I hope you enjoy your Wise Owl Tote Bag! I know I've enjoyed making mine. And know, a very special little girl, is going to LOVE my finished bag too! ♥

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! ♥

Cutest Animals Ever!!!

I don't know about you, but I'm a very indecisive person. It takes me weeks, sometimes months, to buy something. I have to look at it, research, debate if I really want it. It's sorta a pain in the butt.

For example. Every single time, I go to a craft store, I look at this book. "Easy Crochet Critters." I even put it in my basket. Then when I get to the register, I decide not to buy it. Well, not too long ago, I went shopping with my Mom. And I debated this book again. Even with my coupon. Making this book $2...



I think my Mom had had enough with me. She bought me the book. And you know what? I think it's my favorite crochet book ever! There are so many cute patterns in this book. Definitely worth the cost. And the best part, they are super easy to make! I whipped up a lion, elephant, hippo, giraffe, and monkey in one night! The monkey is by far, my favorite animal of the bunch! The face of the lion is also to die for!!!



So I've taken this book, and created a few different gifts. A musician I used to work with, has a little girl. That just turned a year old. I made her 5 animals, whipped up a little bag, and bought her an animal book. She LOVED it!

Then a friend of ours, also has a little girl that's turning a year old. I made a few different animals, and pretty much made her the same gift. I whipped up a few, to send to another cousin. Who just had a baby. And I have a list of kiddos, I still want to make a set for.

But by far, that little monkey has been the winner. I've made 10! That weren't in these sets. And I've sold every single one! I'm not even trying to sell them. But everybody is in love with them. I've got a few more ordered. And I'm starting to make some extra animals. Because in September, my Mom and I are going to sell at another Craft Fair. :) I can't wait! ♥

Wise Owl Tote Bag: Week 4

I almost forget that it was Sunday. I know! We're back from our vacation. But my brain still hasn't caught up. How are your bags coming along? Are they starting to look like owls?

I've gotten tons of fun e-mails this week. With pictures of your bags. Wow! They look AMAZING!!! If you want to send me yours, e-mail me at SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com.

This week, is going to be all about the little parts. The things I generally lose, if I don't attach them immediately! Please tell me, I'm not alone! This week, our goal is to make the inner eyes, outer eyes, and the beak. Oh, and attach everything! You know, so we don't lose them. :)



Before we go much further, don't forget this week, we'll be needing 2-12mm buttons for the eyes. I found some cute and inexpensive ones at Wal-Mart. They come in packs of 6 for $2. A wonderful buy if you ask me! Oh, and we'll also be needing a sewing needle. I like to use "tapestry needles," for this kind of work. But use whatever you feel comfortable with.

Lastly, don't forget to leave long tails, at the end of these pieces. It makes it A LOT easier to sew them in place. And then to hide the ends later. Now let's have a wonderful week crocheting! And if you need some help don't hesitate to contact Cari or I. Now let's give our owls a little personality! ♥

The Good, The Bad, And Some Fun Time!!!

Hi everyone! Long time, no chat. :) Well, this guy and I, were enjoying a piece of paradise. It was a nice time away. But turns out, the old blog, was flipping out while I was away. :(

I had a post, set for each day that we were away. Sadly, as you can tell...they didn't post. I don't know what's up. Only that in the "Edit Posts" tab, they show as POSTED. Go figure. I contacted Blogger. Hopefully, within the next few days, they'll be up. Sorry ahead of time. I assume you're feeds, are going to get a little filled up...

But back to the good things. We're in a beautiful, yet extremely H-O-T place! Filled with tons of history!!! I'm getting to spend the day with My Bestie and Baby C. :) Good times people! While My Guy and his friend, are sadly working. All. Day. Long!!!

It's nice to catch up with friends. Especially since it's been so long, since I've last seen My Bestie. And beautiful Baby C!!! Turns out, they've been enjoying tons of "Family Time!!!" And enjoying our friends' new babies. Yes, a few new babies are in town. :)

And with that being said, we're just going to relax. What can I say? I still feel like I'm on vacation. :) Maybe I'll do a little crocheting. Like this fun little project...



What do you think? It doesn't hurt that I adore cupcakes! Between don't you just adore Twinkie Chan? I do! A few years ago, I ran across her on the internet. And now, I'm a HUGE fan! Her book, I'm totally IN LOVE with it too! Happy Saturday!!! ♥