ASE Keepin' Creative

On Our Way Into 2012

2011-12-31T18:39:00.000-06:00

May your year be full of peace, love, joy and abundant blessings my friends!

♥♥♥

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

James 1:17

Child's Super Bulky HDC Beanie - Free Crochet Pattern

2011-12-23T21:31:00.001-06:00

Hello friends!

Here's a hat I made for my niece and I thought I'd share how I made it with you.

I wrote it down as I went along, but have not made a second one to test it out so please, if you find any errors or have any questions, let me know.

PDF also available on my free patterns page.

♥

Child's Super Bulky HDC Beanie

(with or without ear flaps)

©Anita Elmore

http://aseknc.blogspot.com/

aseknc.blogspot.com

♥

You may not sell or claim this pattern as your own.

You may, however, share the pattern freely & sell any items you make using this pattern, all that I ask is that you give me credit as the designer with the info above.

Thank you for respecting my copyright.

Please enjoy!

♥

SIZE

Child (5-12)

MATERIALS

Hook: P (16 mm)

Yarn: Super Bulky (6)

ABBREVIATIONS

Ch = chain

ea = each

st = stitch

sc = single chain

hdc = half double crochet

sl st = slip stitch

fo = finish off

**do no turn work unless specified**

BEANIE

Ch 2

Round 1: sc 6 in 2nd ch from hook, join. (6)

Round 2: Ch 1 loosely, hdc in same st, 2hdc in ea remaining st around, join. (12)

Round 3: Ch 1 loosely, hdc in same st, hdc in next st *2hdc in next st, hdc in next st *around, join (18)

Round 4: Ch 1 loosely, hdc in next st, 2hdc in next st *hdc in next 2 sts, 2hdc in next st *around, join (24)

Round 5: Ch 1 loosely, hdc in same st, hdc in next 3 sts *2hdc in next st, hdc in next 3 sts *around, join (30)

Round 6-12: Ch 1 loosely, hdc in next st and ea remaining st around, join (30)

If you prefer a basic beanie without ear flaps, then finish off at this point. Otherwise, continue with pattern....

EAR FLAPS

Ch 1, hdc in next 5 sts, turn.

Ch 1, skip 1st st, hdc in rem 4 sts, turn

Ch 1, skip 1st st, hdc in next st, ch 1, skip next st, hdc in next st, fo.

This will leave 2 holes at the bottom of the flap.

Join yarn with sl st in 8th st from ear flap #1 and continue following pattern as written for #1

**There will be more space between the flaps across the front of the hat then there is across the back.**

BRAIDS

Cut 12 strips of yarn, each about a yard long. Thread 6 through the front hole at the bottom of ea flap and braid until you have approximately 3½" of unbraided yarn at the end. Secure by making one big knot with the remaining yarn.

It's Beginning to Look Alot Like Christmas

2011-12-07T18:21:00.001-06:00

Our Christmas tree this year.....

(with the exception of a few new ornaments, not much different than last year)

Our Zoe LOVES the Christmas tree...

you can almost always find asleep under it....so sweet!

Here's a video that my Damon made of Zoe.

It's a comparison of her from when we got her, December last year and this year....

And today, we got snow...

What about you?

Do you celebrate Christmas?

If so, have you put your tree up yet?

Have you gotten snow this year?

What cute (or crazy) things have your furbabies done lately?

♥♥♥

You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart.

Jeremiah 29:13

Americana Pillow - Free Crochet Pattern

2011-12-04T19:21:00.002-06:00

Hello friends! I hope that you have had a wonderful weekend!

I just finished commissioned order for an Americana Pillow and I thought I'd share my pattern with you. I wrote it down as I went along, but have not made a second pillow to test it out so please, if you find any errors or have any questions, let me know.

Americana Pillow Crochet Pattern
©Anita Elmore
http://aseknc.blogspot.com/
aseknc@gmail.com
♥

You may not sell or claim this pattern as your own.
You may, however, share the pattern freely & sell any items you make using this pattern, all that I ask is that you give me credit as the designer with the info above.
Thank you for respecting my copyright.

Please enjoy!
♥

MATERIALS

Hooks: I and J aluminum
4 steel

Yarn: worsted weight (red, off white & blue)

size 10 crochet cotton (off-white/ecru)

3" thick Polly Foam (pillow foam), cut to 7"x11"

FRONT

With J hook & red yarn, CO 43 sts.

Switch to I hook.

Row 1: RED-Hdc in 3rd ch from hook and ea ch across. Ch 2, turn. (40)

Row 2: Hdc in ea st across. FO (40)

Row 3: OFF WHITE-Hdc in ea st across. Ch 2, turn. (40)

Row 4: Hdc in ea st across. FO (40)

Row 5-12: repeat rows 3 and 4, alternating red and white every 2 rows. (40)

Row 13: RED-Hdc 23, BLUE-Hdc 18 (40)

Row 14: BLUE-Hdc 18, RED-Hdc 23 (40)

Row 15-26: repeat rows 13 and 14, alternating red and white every 2 rows. FO (40)

BACK

Using only blue, follow Rows 1-26 of FRONT.

STARS
Using No.4 steel hook and crochet cotton, make 18:

ch 2

5sc in 2nd ch from hook, join with sl st

*ch 3, sl st in 2nd ch from hook, sc in next ch, sl st in next st*repeat 4 more times, FO

Referring to image for placement, sew stars to blue area on front piece.

With right sides facing each other, whip stitch the sides of the front and back pieces together, leaving top and bottom open.

Single crochet bottom closed.

Insert poly foam.

Single crochet top closed.

♥♥♥

Tis the Season....

2011-11-29T10:02:00.001-06:00

...of endless projects!

So many gifts to make, so little time!

What are you working on for Christmas???

♥♥♥

And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!

2 Corinthians 9:14-15

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T22:04:00.000-06:00

I hope your day has been abundantly blessed and full of all things good!

Love ya's!

♥♥♥

In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:18

Important Message

2011-08-07T14:16:00.002-05:00

This is so important. I had fleetingly heard/read at some point that there was a breast cancer that did not have the tell-tell lump. Recently I had my own scare of sorts...what appeared to be a bug bite, red, swollen and hot to the touch. Hubby kept saying it was just a bug bite not to worry about it, that it'd go away in a few days, but I wanted to make sure. I looked everywhere online for this nameless (to me at the time) breast cancer, I even looked for images, and I just couldn't find what I had heard/read about before or any info for this other breast cancer. I decided to just keep an eye on the "bite" and if it didn't get better soon, or started getting any worse, I'd go to the doctor. It appears, fortunately, that it really is just a bug bite. It burst and drained overnight while we were on vacation and when I woke up the swelling had completely gone down. It is still a little red, and I'm still watching it, but what if it hadn't been just a bug bite? Why isn't there more information, more readily available? Please click on the link below and watch the video. It just may save your life.

Poly Clay Play - Important Message

I love you my friends!

♥♥♥

And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

-- Philippians 4:19

Finished It! Friday: August 05, 2011

2011-08-05T18:58:00.001-05:00

Hello friends!

This has been such a busy week. We went on a mini-vacation to the Great Smokey Mountains and had so much fun! It was the first thing resembling a vacation we've taken in a couple of years and it was awesome! Unfortunately, I didn't get a single yarny project completed this week to share with you, so here are just a few vacation pics instead!

After a morning of shopping in Gatlinburg, we decided to take a relaxing drive through Cades Cove...

We even got to see a Momma Black Bear and her cub, but I couldn't get a clear pic of them from the road. This little guy however was standing right by the road!

Jeremy did his research to find the fastest Go Carts in Pigeon Forge (without needing a driver's license so Damon could drive too) and we ended up here...

Here they are getting all buckled in....

I wish we had a better camera, but we have what we have and the next few shots are blurry, but I just have to share how much fun we were having!

Here's Jeremy......

and here both of the boys are....

Damon was really kickin' butt! Jeremy beat him once, but most of the time Damon was so fast he was lapping the other racers, he totally rocked!

Here he is in his favorite spot - the front!!

Finally, here they are getting on the Skyscraper ride that goes 150 feet in the air, and spins on a pendulum-like thing in 360° loops going 60 mph....whew! Better them than me!!! LoL...

I'm sure I'll have actual yarn-works to share with ya next week. I hope you enjoyed the vacation pics!

Have a great week my friends!

♥♥♥

Do not say, “I’ll pay you back for this wrong!”

Wait for the LORD, and he will avenge you.

Proverbs 20:22

Finished It Friday: July 29, 2011

2011-07-29T11:35:00.000-05:00

Hey there!

Here are the projects I've finished up over this past week (in order of completion *Ü*)...

My friend Jodie (who seems to be the biggest fan of my work in the world!*Ü*) custom ordered two black cats with long tails and green eyes...big ones, like the girls I draw was her specific request, LoL...I immediately had a vision and wanted to create this pattern myself instead of using someone else's. It is inspired by others I've seen and done, but this one's all mine! Here's what I came up with and they are travelin' to Jodie's house now....

After I finished Jodie's black kitties, I wanted something small to work on so I was going through my bookmarks of patterns I want to all get to eventually and came across this Easter Bunny Fridgie free pattern from Crochet Memories (You can also find it on Ravelry!). I decided I didn't want a fridgie, but more of a small applique that can be sewn on as an embellishment, or added as a decorative (or focal point) element to an ATC (Artist Trading Card), so I used a US 7 steel hook and size 10 crochet cotton. He only took minutes to work up and I thought he turned out rather cute....

Next pattern that struck my fancy in my bookmarked list of patterns that I've been compiling was the free pattern for this darling Granny Stripe Boutique Bag by Sara of Tangled Happy (You can also find it on Ravelry!) I wanted something bright and happy and summery so I chose a bright yellow with white for the flower. The pattern doesn't call for, or even mention lining, but I decided that I definitely wanted to line mine. I chose felt for the lining because there is no worries of fraying edges so sewing it up would be a snap. I wanted to use white, but didn't have enough (boo!). I thought that orange complimented the yellow and white nicely, and had a full sheet of that in my felt stash, so that's what I used.

For the lining I traced around the bag part of the purse to get the shape then, following that shape, I trimmed it until it fit inside the bag just perfectly. I then folded my piece of felt and laid the template I had made on it so that the bottom of the template was lined up with the fold. Next I just cut around the other three sides of my template. The fold was the bottom of my lining and all I had to do was sew up the sides...easy-peasy! Then I just used small running stitches to hand-sew the lining into the bag. I have to admit, both yellow and orange are colors that I usually only reserve for accents, but the really worked for a fun summery little bag!

Jodie, the one that I made the cats for, is a paying customer, but she truly is a dear friend and is such a sweetheart and one of the most generous and genuinely kind people I have ever met and I just love her to pieces. When she orders from me, I always try to add extras that I know she would like and/or can use in her art. This time I added these little pretties....

Just like the bunny I made earlier in the week, these little pretties would be easy sewn on to embellish just about anything, or used as an element on an ATC. These butterfly, flower and leaf motif patterns are by Joanne Loh of craftpassion.com. (You can also find them on Ravelry!)

My final finished project for the past week I think I will keep for myself! Debi Y's Another Sweet-heart ornament. I made some of her various sweet-heart ornaments (there are three) when she first shared them, but I was at my sisters and she liked them so much that I left them with her and wasn't able to get pics. All three patterns are so sweet and so easy! Hmmm...I am thinking about having a Debi Y's Sweet-hearts grouping of about 10-15 on the wall over my bed! *squeals!* How cute would that be!?!?

And that's it for this week....off to make more pretties to share next Friday!

Have a wonderful weekend my friends!

♥♥♥

There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the LORD.

Proverbs 21:30 (NIV)

2011-07-20T17:30:00.002-05:00

I saw this at Crochet Geek-Free Instructions and Patterns and just had to share!
I totally have to try this!!!

♥♥♥

He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from troubles.

Proverbs 21:23 (AMP)

(still working on this one myself...ey-ey-ey!)

God Is So Awesome!

2011-07-14T20:27:00.000-05:00

I've been having a rough go of it lately...feeling lonely and, as my Daddy used to say, "I feel so d*mn unnecessary"...and not having any girl friends to hang out with, chat with and confide in....nowhere to go and nothing to do (ever!)...it's all been getting to me and really bringing me down.

Today I ask God to lead me and guide me....show me what I can do...I immediately got an answer and felt Him telling me to volunteer....

"Huh? Volunteer doing what???"

....again, I felt Him speak to me and tell me to go to the local pregnancy crisis center....

"but what if they don't have a spot for me?"

....then I got this thought that if He wanted me there, then there would be a spot...and if there's not a spot, then He will make one....

"Ok God, I'm steppin' out in faith here. I'm gonna believe that you are fillin' a need and I'm gonna go."

....and the Director of Operations was working the desk, and I told her "I'm here to help. If you need me, I'm offering my time." She was floored. She got the most dumb-founded look on her face and said "really?" She ask what brought me there, and I told her. Come to find out, they had been really praying for help.

So, I filled out the application and met the CEO and she's calling my references tomorrow and I go in Monday at 9am.

There is no feeling like the one you get when you blatantly see God's hand at work and there's no other way to explain it. And, I can't help but feel that God is opening a door that I can't even see yet.

Yep, God is so AWESOME!

♥♥♥

He who earnestly seeks after and craves righteousness, mercy, and loving-kindness will find life in addition to righteousness (uprightness and right standing with God) and honor.

Proverbs 21:21 (AMP)

Internet

2011-06-19T16:42:00.000-05:00

Oh my goodness!

We have had nothing but trouble with our internet for the last 2½-3 weeks now!

Well, really we've had issues the whole three years we've had Spirit Broadband Cable, never going more than a month, maybe two, at a time without some sort of outage and/or issues, but the last few weeks have really taken the cake!

It all started when a pretty hefty storm rolled through and knocked it totally out for two days. They said that there was a main line down and for whatever reason it was going to take a couple of days to get it back online. When it did come back online it would be online from about 7-7:30 in the evening until about 7 in the morning...and it did this for about 2 weeks! Then another storm rolled through...not even a particularly heavy or damaging storm, just your run of the mill, garden variety Spring storm and poof! Out again! That was Wednesday of last week and it's been out ever since, with us being told a different story every time we called them. Talk about irritating and frustrating!!!

BUT, I am so excited right now because it just came back on!!! ...and it hasn't wavered for a whole 25 minutes! Wooo-Hooo! Keep your fingers and toes crossed for me that they finally have it truly fixed and it stays online!!!!

Hugs,

♥Anita

A person may think their own ways are right,

but the LORD weighs the heart.

Proverbs 21:2

Hello there!

2011-06-11T19:49:00.000-05:00

Hello friends!

Remember I told you in an extremely personal post that I was getting off of the anti-depressant medication Effexor? I've been meaning to update y'all about that for a while, but boy, this has been one crazy year! You guys will be so happy for me! I did it! I tapered down over a couple of months and finally got completely off! While I was tapering off I really didn't have a hard time with the withdrawals. The first day or two when I would go down in dosage I'd have mild withdrawal symptoms, until I got to where I was down to only taking 1/4 tab each day then that wasn't enough to register in my body and the withdrawals hit me so hard! For about a month it hit me the hardest.... I was always so disoriented and had what has been termed "brain shivers" or "brain zaps"...talk about an awful feeling! It was like my brain was working on delayed timing. I could move my eyes and it would take 3 or 4 seconds for my brain to catch up...Most of the time I was scared to drive because I was so disoriented and I would "lose time". Wayne or the boys would talk to me and all of a sudden the conversation would be over and I would have to ask them what we talked about. I could recall "buzzes and clicks" ...kinda like the teacher of the old Peanut's cartoons....not a bit fun. I researched to see how long these effects would last and found that average was 1-7 YEARS....with some reports of it lasting the rest of the person's life! These symptoms have finally over the last few weeks eased up tremendously, with only rare occasions of the brain shivers/zaps and/or losing time. I definitely learned a valuable lesson here....Just because a doctor prescribes it doesn't mean it's good for you. I will never again take a prescription (with the exception of emergencies) without researching first! Before this I always thought that the "fine print" of what "could happen while taking a med was in rare cases so I didn't give it much thought....now I know to actually research how it has affected real-life people and weigh the pros & cons of a medication accordingly.

On the bright side, I am completely anti-depressant free and for the most part, I'm feeling great! I do have some emotional times, but I'm learning better ways of dealing with them (which includes allowing myself to feel the emotions sometimes)....and prescription meds will be a last resort from now on.

Little Gnome

2011-05-03T17:38:00.000-05:00

Hey guys!

Here's the latest little crochet project I worked up...

I used the pattern 'Simply a Gnome!' amigurumi pattern from Else's Bellas Artes free patterns (also find it on Ravelry).

I modified it to make it just the right size for a keychain by switching to tan yarn at end of round 7, switching to blue at the end of round 10, and finishing off at the end of round 15. For the bottom I finished off at the end of round 4. I also just freehand cut out a smaller beard. For the loop I attached yarn to the first row on the gnome hat with a slip stitch, single chained 15, then joined with a slip stitch to the next stitch right beside the beginning slip stitch and voila! =o)

I made this little guy for a swap on Swap-bot and it is going to be so hard to give him away....luckily he's so super-quick & easy to make I can make another one to keep for myself! ..hehehehe

Hope y'all are having a great week so far!

Love ya's!

♥♥♥

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

2 Corinthians 5:17

Do You Tiwashi?

2011-04-28T18:47:00.000-05:00

I do!

I think they are the perfect size!

I love using handmade dishcloths but find the size of even the average ones to be a bit big and bulky so tiwashis (about 4-5 inches in diameter) allow me to have my cake and eat it too!

I made this one using my oldest son's favorite color because he helps me with the dishes each day. Yeah, I'm pretty blessed!

The free pattern is buy GRANNYJUDITH and can be found here. (and here on Ravelry)

Enjoy!

♥♥♥

For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

Titus 2:11-14

More Bunnies!

2011-04-27T20:59:00.000-05:00

I just haven't been able to get enough of this bunny pattern!

How sweet are these little guys...???

Pink Bunny #1

Blue Bunny

Three Bunny Amigas

and last, but certainly not least...

Pink Bunny #2

..and now Easter is over, but I have to say that I can't promise you won't be seeing more bunnies in the near future!

Ooooh, ooooh, ooooh!

One more bunny before I go...this one I drew in my art journal on Easter!

♥♥♥

No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

1 Corinthians 10:13

Knitting

2011-04-27T14:14:00.000-05:00

Hehehehe....

...just had to share!

♥♥♥

Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.”

1 Corinthians 15:33

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T12:09:00.000-05:00

Praise the Lord, Christ is risen!

♥♥♥

In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’ ”

Luke 24:5-7

Quick & Easy Last Minute Easter Patterns

2011-04-22T11:15:00.000-05:00

Here are a couple quickies that you can whip up still before Easter.

How about a zero calorie Peep?

This sweet little treat whips up in about 15-20 minutes tops! I didn't have black beads, so I just used dark brown yarn for the eyes and nose. I have to say that I do think the beads make it look much neater though.

Doni offered up her Easter Marshmallow Bunnies-free pattern on her blog Whiskers & Wool. (or on Ravelry)

Here's a cute little striped Easter egg too!

Julie-K shared her free tiny striped egg pattern on her blog. (or on Ravelry)

The title says tiny, but I'm guessing she meant compared to other amigurumi projects. My finished egg is right around the same size as a real egg.

I hope your Good Friday and Easter are extraordinarily blessed my friends.

I love you all!

♥♥♥

The LORD makes firm the steps

of the one who delights in him;

though he may stumble, he will not fall,

for the LORD upholds him with his hand.

Psalm 37:23-24

The Final Summit-a Book Review

2011-04-11T22:51:00.000-05:00

This Book was reviewed for BookSneeze blogger review program and while I do get the books/DVDs that I review for free, I don't get any financial compensation for my reviews. I also want to assure you that I will always give you my honest opinions about any books/DVDs that I choose to review. I am not a professional writer or reviewer and my reviews will be in my everyday, southern, girl-next-door language. I call it like I see it and type it like I say it. With that said, on to the review!

♥♥♥

The Final Summit is a stand-alone sequel to Andy Andrews bestselling book The Traveler's Gift and follows David Ponder as he, along with other 'Travelers', work together to find the one principle that will save humanity.

I have to say Andy Andrews is becoming my favorite author! I love his way of drawing the reader into the story while teaching principles to live by...without seeming "preachy." This is the second book I have read by him (the first, by the way, was not The Traveler's Gift, though I definitely will be getting a copy of that one soon!) and just as with the first book I read, The Final Summit had me hooked from the beginning and I didn't want to put it down! It really is such a motivational and interesting book, littered with many historical facts (and some little known facts at that), sparking an interest to not only read on, but to also learn more about the historical figures involved. Truly enjoyable from beginning to end!

Speaking of the end, at the back of the book is a Reader's Guide section filled with personal thought provoking questions designed to help you use this book to dig deeper into your own mind and heart and motivate you. There is also a link to an exclusive video and free companion curriculum for teachers and book clubs.

Not only do I highly recommend this book, but I will be incorporating it into our family's homeschool lessons as I think it contains such great lessons for life!

♥♥♥

O LORD, hear my prayer, listen to my cry for mercy; in your faithfulness and righteousness come to my relief.

-- Psalm 143:1

Lovin' Spring!

2011-04-08T11:38:00.000-05:00

Hello my friends!

I was just sitting here thinking about how wonderful my day was yesterday.

It started out rough...I woke up with a migraine...which in turn made my stomach nauseas...and I ended up going back to bed for a few hours. Once the meds I took kicked in the boys and I got out for a little while. We didn't do anything spectacular, but we went to the closest town with a craft store, which is about 35 minutes away and we had such a blast just driving on such a beautiful Spring day! Jeremy (my 16 year old) did the driving and we jammed to his hard rock/metal music....his "sunny day, driving music." Damon (my 15 year old) wore his black trench coat, German military hat and platform boots...his go-to outfit when we get out....which used to drive Jeremy crazy, but he's finally gotten over it. We laughed and they were even playful with each other in the stores. My heart was so happy and full. The good Lord has blessed me so abundantly! My heart is still full just reflecting on yesterday....and Spring; Spring seems to bring out the best in everyone doesn't it?

I sure hope each and every one of you have a wonderful and wonderfully blessed and beautiful Spring weekend!

I sure do love you guys!

♥♥♥

Come near to God and he will come near to you.

James 4:8

Crochet Baby Hat

2011-04-05T06:43:00.000-05:00

This little hat is so precious! ...and so simple and easy to make!

...and free!

I especially love the ruffled brim.

You can find the free pattern on this post at Yarnjeannie's blog.

♥♥♥

Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.
1 Peter 5:8-9

Cute Little Crochet Bunny

2011-04-05T06:00:00.001-05:00

When I first saw the post for the free pattern for this little bunny at à voir etc... it just didn't strike me. Then I saw this post over at Little Z Handmade and Oh-My-Goodness!! Lisette did such an adorable job that I all but literally squealed at the cute! I knew immediately that I had to make this little cutie and with Easter being this month I thought it was the perfect opportunity.

(Find it on Ravelry.)

Here's how mine turned out.....

What d'ya think?

I have to warn you that the pattern isn't very detailed and so not really beginner-friendly, but easy enough to figure out if you are already familiar with making amigurumi and the increasing and decreasing the rounds. Also, for the ears directions are only given for rounds 1 & 2; I repeated round 2 until I had completed 20 rounds total for each ear.

Here's a close-up of the flowers....

I used the free pattern for these adorable hairbows from the Lion Brand Yarn website. (You can also find it on Ravelry.)

I used size 10 crochet cotton and US 4 steel hook. For the white center flower I used the pattern for the large flower and I used the pattern for the small flower for the smallest purple flower. The largest purple was a modified version of the large flower pattern: R1 same as in pattern; R2 I used hdc in place of each sc; R3 I did 2 hdc, slst in each st around. Then I just stacked them and sewed 'em on!

♥♥♥

For the word of God is alive and active.
Sharper than any double-edged sword,
it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow;
it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12

Scrap Paper Storage Solution

2011-04-04T10:23:00.000-05:00

This is by far the best idea I've seen for scrap paper storage yet! I don't have a cinch contraption, but I think the same concept would work wonderfully with binder rings.....

♥♥♥

I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.

-- John 12:46

Just Checking In...

2011-03-30T11:48:00.000-05:00

Hello my friends!

I hope every one of you are having a wonderful week!

I've had a rough couple of weeks here...we thought we were going to lose our baby scruppy to Parvo. To answer any thoughts otherwise, yes, she had been vaccinated but sometimes the vaccines just aren't enough and this was one of those times. It started out mild enough and when we realized on the 3rd day that it wasn't just a run-of-the-meal tummy virus we took her to the vet and after diagnosing her he wasn't too worried because she was still well hydrated so he sent her home with medications but by the next morning she had to be hospitalized in critical care. I can't express how scared I was or how much my heart was breaking at the thought of losing her! She really is my baby. This house was so empty and lifeless and the whole family was so out of sorts without her here. Thankfully, God does answer prayers and Chloe is now home and perking up more and more every day...YaY! I do have to insert here that only 20% of dogs with Parvo survive if they aren't treated by a vet compared to 80% that survive when treated. PLEASE, if your dog contracts Parvo, I urge you to take him/her to the vet. Do not just "wait it out" at home. Also, the only thing that will kill the virus in your home is bleach. A 30:1 solution of water and bleach is what's needed. Take care of your babies!

♥♥♥

This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.

1 John 5:14

Every Inchie Monday- Rythm ...and some inchie catch up

2011-03-19T19:51:00.000-05:00

Word of the Week: Rhythm

Those who have been following me for a while know that I started participating in Every Inchie Monday at the beginning of the year, but when Mom went into the hospital and ultimately passed away in January I got behind on my inchies but I've finally got caught up!

Let me share those with you....

January 31: Mirthful

February 7: Electrifying

February 14: Fishy

February 21: Cosmic

February 28: Frolic

March 7: Dance

And finally....

March 14: Endless

Thank you so much my friends for letting me share with you!

Great big hugs!!!

♥♥♥

Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

James 1:12

Embroidery and Art Journaling

2011-03-18T23:17:00.000-05:00

Hello friends!

I hope that everyone has had a wonderful week in spite of the recent events that have been going on in Japan.

My heart breaks for all who have been...and are continuing to be...affected by it all. Sometimes things happen that just seam so surreal...like you are watching a movie....but your not and it is very real. Sadly, this is one of those times.

Ironically, over at the Hand Embroidery Network community, the theme for the March embroidered ATC swap was "Waves" ...to be interpreted however one wanted to (a person waving, ocean waves, a flag waving in the wind, etc). Here's my interpretation....

Here's the one that I received from one Ms Elizabeth Peters....

And finally, here are Wednesday and Thursday's journal pages....

Thank you so much my friends, for letting me share with you.

I love you guys!

♥♥♥

My mouth is filled with your praise, declaring your splendor all day long.

-- Psalm 71:8

Crochet Baby Dress and Diaper Cover

2011-03-17T00:44:00.000-05:00

Hello friends!

I hope you are all having a great week.

I've been preparing for the baby shower for the daughter of an old friend that's coming up this weekend and look at this cute little dress I whipped up....

The pattern is the Going Home Dress by Laura Hooker and it was such a sweet and easy little dress to work up. The only modification I made was to chain only 2 instead 3 at the end of the rows down the skirt.

To go with it, I made this cute little diaper cover

...from the free Baby Girl Sleeper Set by Abigail Goss.

Another quick and easy pattern to work up!

No modifications for this one.

I'll close today with Tuesday's journal pages....

(click on image to see the full size)

Have a wonderful and blessed rest of your week my friends!

I love ya's!!!

♥♥♥

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Matthew 11:28

My Life Art Journaled: Pages for March 12 & 13

2011-03-14T13:19:00.000-05:00

Here's what's in the little pocket I made...

I got this in a mailing from Joyce Meyer and I wanted to put it where I could be reminded of its message from time to time. Since I go back and look through my journals from time to time I thought this was a great place!

I'm working on a couple of crochet projects for an upcoming baby shower so I'll be able to post my results, the links to and my thoughts on the patterns soon!

Have a wonderfully blessed week my friends.

I love ya's!!!

♥♥♥

He [Jesus] is before all things, and in him all things hold together.

-- Colossians 1:17

Karen's Cakes

2011-03-13T11:26:00.000-05:00

I just seen my sister Karen's most recent cake creation and it is so breathtaking I just had to share!

I mean look at the perfect detail here...

...keep in mind, this is icing (or gumpaste) y'all....not store-bought pretties!

How gorgeous is this???

And here's a pic of the whole cake....

Do I have the most amazingly talented sister or what!?!?

Ok, my intention wasn't to make this an advertisement, I really just wanted to share her amazingness, but I have to add that she does sell these y'all....so if you live in or around the Nashville, Tennessee area and you want or need a very special cake made, you can visit her cake page for more details....and more pics of her awesomeness!

Thanks for letting me share!

♥♥♥

If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you.

--John 15:7 NIV

Recent Snippets of My Life...Art Journal Pages

2011-03-12T12:38:00.000-06:00

Read the following pages for little snippets of my days and maybe gain a little insight to my mind....

Thank you, my friends, for letting me share with you!

♥♥♥

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Proverbs 1:7 NIV

St. Patrick's Day Tangle Patterns

2011-03-09T19:40:00.000-06:00

Happy Wednesday my friends!

Here are some tangle patterns that I came up with for a St. Patrick's Day-themed Zentangle swap on Swap-bot and I thought I'd share them with my tangling friends....have fun!

Love ya's!

♥♥♥

The LORD will keep you from all harm - he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.
-- Psalm 121:7-8

Two Great Crochet Patterns!

2011-03-04T18:11:00.000-06:00

Hello my friends!

I'm still here and doing pretty good.

Here's a couple more quick and easy patterns I had the chance to try (seems like that's the requirement for my projects these days!)...

I just love this Little Granny Bag free pattern from The Royal Sisters blog (also on Ravelry!)

Super-quick, easy and cute...the best combination ever!!! ;o)

Then there's this Flower Key Cozy free pattern from K and J Dolls blog (also on Ravelry!)

Another super-quick, easy and cute little project. It is much bigger than it looked in the pictures on the post for the pattern so I wanted you to see it with my set of keys attached so that you would get a better sense of the actual size.

Have a wonderful weekend my friends!

♥♥♥

Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.
-- Acts 4:12

Daisy Wheel Dishcloth -- Free Pattern Link

2011-02-19T09:51:00.000-06:00

Have you made one of these yet?

I've had it in my favorites for-ev-er and as I was browsing through Sara's crochet stuff over at Creative Jewish Mom, the ones she made caught my eye (you should really take a peek at hers...on one of 'em, the yarn she used really does look, I don't know how to describe it....dimensional? illuminating? ...just go peek for yourself & check out the one in the upper-right-hand part of the pic). She linked to this pattern originally posted by Deb at Virginia Blue and I knew it was time to make it. Talk about a quick, easy and s-weet little pattern to work up...I love it and I'll be making Primrose soon too!

You can also find the pattern on Ravelry.

Hope y'all have a wonderful and blessed weekend.

Keep on Keepin' Creative my lovelies!

♥♥♥

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
2 Timothy 1:7

Wristlet Bag, Personal Update and Projects Completed...

2011-02-17T10:26:00.000-06:00

Hi friends!

I want to thank you all again for your love and care.

I am doing a little better each day, though some days are harder than others.

It's my brothers who are having the hardest time. Charlie was the baby and Mom put up with and took care of Jeff (he's 6 years older than me) when no one else would even tolerate him, even though he continually broke her heart. Now he's left with no one to take care of him and bail him out of trouble...and he also has a lot of guilt to deal with. He's the least emotionally stable of us all and I would really appreciate all the prayers you can send up...for him, for Charlie...for all of us.

I have been getting back into my creative groove too....

Isn't this just darling?

I used this free pattern by Maria Merlino.

You can also find it on Ravelry.

This little cutie was so quick and easy to work up!

And some other projects I've completed...

ATCs

Embroidery

And today's Scripture is on this postcard...

Have a Blessed and Beautiful Day!

♥♥♥

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-13T22:50:00.000-06:00

(pattern here)

I hope your day is filled with all of the happiness and love you can handle!

♥♥♥

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.
1 Chronicles 16:34

Wanna Help?

2011-02-09T20:54:00.000-06:00

Hey guys, will you help this homeschool family reach their goal of getting 2,011 letters in 2011???

Mine was their sixth letter!

Artsy Eye Candy

2011-02-04T17:14:00.000-06:00

Hello friends,

I'm not feelin' much like words right now, but I wanted to take a minute and thank you all so much for your loving care, thoughts and prayers. You don't know how very much it has meant and helped.

I also haven't felt much like creating either, but here are a few pics of ATCs that I hadn't gotten a chance to post pics of before Mom's hospitalization and passing....

Have a wonderful weekend friends.

♥♥♥

Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.
Ephesians 6:24

Another Rough Day Ahead

2011-01-27T08:34:00.000-06:00

My friends, your outpouring of love and support has felt like a much-needed hug and I thank you all SO MUCH.

Today us kids have to meet at the funeral home to make the arrangements...these next few days are going to be especially hard on us all. Please continue to pray for God to bless us with His strength as well as His comfort.

♥♥♥

But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19

Thoughts and Prayers Please....

2011-01-26T19:33:00.001-06:00

My Mom went to her Heavenly home today.

Barbara Jean Shore
February 21, 1948 - January 26, 2011

Mommy, you are already missed.

I love you so much & will hold you forever in my heart.

♥♥♥

Though He brings grief, He will show compassion, so great is His unfailing love.

Lamentations 3:32

2011-01-24T08:15:00.000-06:00

This week's theme is "maudlin."

maud·lin [mawd-lin] –adjective
1. tearfully or weakly emotional; foolishly sentimental: a maudlin story of a little orphan and her lost dog.
2. foolishly or mawkishly sentimental because of drunkenness.

Here's my inchie representation of "maudlin"...

♥♥♥

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.
1 Chronicles 16:34

An Extremely Personal Post

2011-01-23T10:42:00.000-06:00

Hello my friends,

This is going to be a very short, but an extremely personal post.

I'm asking you to bear with me for a few weeks.

To start, I need to let you in on a very personal little tid-bit of information: I'm bipolar. I have battled this very personal hell for so many years. For the last year and a half I have been on a medication called Effexor (for bipolar, depression & anxiety) and for all intents and purposes, this medication has worked....however, it is about the worst medication for withdrawal symptoms if you even forget it for a few hours! This has had me dealing with a hell all its own and a hell I just can't live with anymore. With that said, I have decided to get off of Effexor and I am gradually tapering off of it because it is dangerous to quit "cold turkey." Even with the gradual tapering off (I only lower the dosage by a very minimal amount each time I adjust it), it still has me reeling from the withdrawal symptoms. Sometimes I can function fairly normal, but sometimes (today is one of those times) I do good to get out of bed because of the physical (not mental or emotional) withdrawals: my head is reeling, I am extremely disoriented, nauseous, and I have a migraine.

Now that you know my little secret and the hell that I've been dealing with, I am asking you to please keep me in your prayers and thoughts and to bear with me for a few weeks or so until I can get this out of my system and work with my doctor to get me on a medication that is better suited to me. As I said earlier, I do have days that are fairly normal, but those days I have so much catching up to do on EVERYthing that I may or may not be able to fit a blog post in....but I will try to post at least once a week, if only to say that I'm still trudgin' along and that I'm thinking about you.

Thanks in advance for your understanding.

I love you guys!

♥♥♥

Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.
1 John 4:11 NIV

Family, Outgoing Art and Every Inchie Monday: Caring

2011-01-17T14:38:00.000-06:00

I went to my sister Karen's for the weekend to help out with my great-niece Addison's very first birthday and I had a really good time. Karen is a cake-maker and really is awesome at her job! Here she is with baby Addison and the party table posing with all of the goodies we put together and the birthday cake...

Here's Addison with her mommy (my niece Casey) and her daddy...

And here she is with her Cuddly Bunny that I made her for her birthday...

I was so happy that she was so tickled with it. My other niece Shelby informed me immediately that she wanted a bunny too, LoL. Here's Shelby with Addison...

♥♥♥

This week's theme is "Caring."

A simple inchie, made with a Sharpie ultra-fine tip marker & liquid/craft acrylic paint.

♥♥♥

Finally, I'll leave you with some art eye candy that has made it to their destinations...

...made for my friend Jodie in a personal swap we did.

(acrylic painting)

...this little guy was made for Wendy in the Swap-bot Cat Postcards Galore Swap.

(watercolor painting)

♥♥♥

A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Proverbs 15:1 NIV

Every Inchie Monday: Powerful

2011-01-10T12:09:00.000-06:00

What is an inchie?

Basically, an inchie is a teeny-tiny piece of art.

Alot of times they are traded like ATCs (Artist Trading Cards) and I've seen alot of handmade greeting cards decorated with inchies.

To learn more about them and see some wonderful examples, peek here.

To see examples of some gorgeous cards made using inchies, check this out.

I didn't get going on the "Every Inchie Monday" project in time to post the first one, so you get a double dose of inchie eye candy this week! So without further ado, here they are...

"Ecclectic"

and

"Powerful"

Thank you my friends for all that you allow me to share with you!

Much love to you.

♥♥♥

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.
James 5:16 NIV

So Sweet!

2011-01-09T13:37:00.000-06:00

I love how well my babies get along!

These two wrestle and play one minute...you'd think they were gonna chew a hole in each other...then they are cuddled up to each other the next. They'll give each other kisses and Zoe will bath Chloe...sometimes it's so sweet it's unbearable!

Since it's Sunday there's no new incoming mail to post, but I have been creating creating art and getting mail ready to go out. I'll have to wait and show those when they've reached their destination so as not to spoil any surprises. :o)

I can show you this art journal entry that I started last night though. I just finished it this morning....

I also have a doily to share with you ;o)

I first saw this one on Creative Jewish Mom's website. Her doily turned out so pretty that I couldn't wait to give it a go!

The Spider Web Doily is a free pattern on the Coats and Clark website.

I love it! I really enjoyed the pattern; it really is so super easy to work up and would be a perfect doily project for someone who would love to try a doily but has been too intimidated by them to plunge in and go for it. That was me for years!...please, don't wait years...not when there are beautiful doilies just waiting to be made and easy patterns like this to get you started!

I will leave you with a quote today that really does ring true...

"To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you.”
Lewis B. Smedes

Be blessed my friends!

♥♥♥

But now be strong O Zerubbabel, declares the Lord. Be strong, O Joshua, son of Jehozadak, the high priest. Be strong, all you people of the land, declares the Lord, and work. For I am with you, declares the Lord almighty.
Haggai 2:4 (NIV)

Mail, Art & Crochet -- with free pattern link

2011-01-08T20:47:00.002-06:00

Hello friends!

Not gonna be too wordy tonight but I wanted to share some eye candy (and a pattern link) with y'all.

First of all, look at the pretty ATCs I got this week!

...this one was from tammybeck. I LOVE her ATCs and was so happy to have the opportunity to trade with her!

...got this one from Yuzz in a Swap-bot swap.

...and finally, this one out of the blue from a fellow IUOMA member.

Sweet huh?

:o)

I sent this out to my pen pal Linda...

I also got to work on Pammy Sue's adorable (and free!) "On the Fly Doily" pattern...

Turned out pretty cute huh? I made it for my brother and his wife-to-be in their favorite colors (his is blue and hers is green).

I hope y'all have had a wonderful week and that you have an even better weekend!

♥♥♥

Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent; with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent.
Proverbs 17:28 NLT

ASE's Teeny-Tiny Snowflake-Free Crochet Pattern

2011-01-04T20:38:00.000-06:00

ASE's Teeny-Tiny Snowflake Crochet Pattern
©Anita Elmore aka ASE Knits 'n' Crochets
http://aseknc.blogspot.com/
aseknc@gmail.com
♥

Materials

Size 10 Crochet Thread, teeny-tiny amount
Hook: US 4 Steel Crochet Hook

Terms and Abbreviations

CO = cast on
ch = chain
sc = single chain
hdc = half double crochet
sts = stitches
sl st = slip stitch
beg = beginning
x = times (example 6x = 6 times)
FO = finish off

Special Stitches

3-picot cluster: (ch 3, sl st in same sc)3x

Snowflake

Round 1: CO & ch 4 (counts as first hdc and ch 2 space)

(hdc in 4th ch from hook, ch 2)4x join with a sl st to 2nd ch in beg ch 4. (5 hdc and ch 2 spaces)

Round 2: (Sc in next ch 2 space, 3-picot cluster, sl st in next hdc)5x; FO and weave in ends.

Creativity Update-Includes Baby Sweater From Free Crochet Pattern With Link!

2011-01-04T01:07:00.000-06:00

Hello my friends!

It's been another stir crazy kinda day here. The sun was shining so beautifully...sun rays through my windows is like an instant dose of energy for me...Gotta love that!

One of the patterns that I told you I would share pics of & links to is this adorable little Hexagon Baby Sweater/Jacket...

I always tend to make girlie things when I work on baby projects (maybe it's because not having a girl, girlie things are a bit refreshing), so I thought this time I would make something for a boy. I'll add buttons to it when I find just the right ones. This pattern was so very easy to follow and to work up! My very favorite kind! I don't like fold down collars much...especially on a baby...so I just worked the collar the same way I did my trim...also different, LoL, seems like I can just never work a pattern as written! For the trim I wanted to add an extra color, as these colors were how I had envisioned it from the beginning, and to do that without have a huge band I had to switch to sc instead of dc. All-in-all, I think it worked out nicely!

As if I needed another challenge to add to my plate, I joined in on Kate's Calendar Challenge over at The Kathryn Wheel. To give you a quick low-down on what it's about, each month I'll be making my own calendar...I'll be making mine in my art journal...and each day I will write or draw something that pertains to that day's square. I completed January's calendar today...my very first one....

I also wanted to share with you this beautiful mail I got from my mail art pal Nicole....

Isn't it all just gorgeous! I can't tell you how happy I am when I open my mailbox to find something Nicole has made to send me!

Here's a collage I made of some of the art that I sent out today and/or got notified that they were received today...

Being creative makes me so happy!

Before I sign off for the night, I thought I'd share a couple of pics of my babies too.

We have a new edition to the Elmore household....

Her name is Zoe.

Here she is playing in Mommy's yarn basket.

One of her favorite places to be is crawled up under someone's legs for a nap. I am assuming it's the warmth, or maybe it's just the way your legs wrap around her...like swaddling a baby.....

...this is her cuddled up under Blue's legs this time.

It only took a few days for her and Chloe to become the best of sisters and friends! It is so cute to watch them play and wrestle...they even play tug with each other with Chloe's bo-bo. Then when they wear each other out, the crawl up on the couch together and nap....

Ok, that's enough for one day. Thank you all so much for letting me share my creativity and my life with you. I sure do love you guys!

♥♥♥

Then David continued, 'Be strong and courageous and do the work. Don't be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. He will see to it that all the work related to the temple of the Lord is finished correctly.
1 Chronicles 28:20 (NLT)

Cuddly Bunny Free Knitting and Crochet Pattern

2011-01-03T00:20:00.001-06:00

It felt so good to be throwin' yarn again yesterday as I knitted up this little cutie...

I made her for my great-niece's 1st birthday coming up on the 15th. I followed the free knitting pattern for the Cuddly Bunny from the Lion Brand Yarn website. It was so quick and easy to knit up! I worked it from start to finish yesterday afternoon. Because I had a hard time with the extremely fuzzy novelty yarn I was using tangling up while I was doing the double knitting for the bunny's head, I decided to switch to crochet so I could work in the round. The free crochet pattern is called Bunny Blanket Buddy and it is a free pattern from the Lion Brand Yarn website too. I've decided to make another one with smaller needles to make a denser fabric and without stuffing the head for my pup Chloe. She needs a new bo-bo. :o)

Today I have been going so stir crazy! I am so ready for winter to be over already!

About the only thing I was able to sit still long enough to create was this ATC I made for a private trade...

...and now it's time for me to head to bed.

Sweet dreams my friends!

♥♥♥

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God..
Ephesians 2:8

New Year Wishes and My Creative Update

2011-01-01T15:09:00.000-06:00

I sure hope that you had the merriest of Christmas' and that your year is starting out abundantly blessed and that it continues to be so blessed right on through to the end of 2011!

We had a wonderful Christmas here at the Elmore house!

We got Jeremy a Craftsman tool set & he's a big Chevy fan, so I designed and made this throw for him...

I think he was just about as thrilled with the throw as he was the expensive tool set! Talk about makin' a Mama feel good! :o)

Damon got a new bass guitar and I made him this Bob Marley-style rasta tam...

I do believe he slept in it for two nights in a row. LoL I sure do love that my boys enjoy things that I make for them so much.

I have been keepin' creative since my last post too.

My internet was down for 24 hours from Wednesday morning until Thursday morning and I completed 4 crochet projects! All I was in the mood to do that day was crochet. I'll be sharing pics individually over the next few days and I'll be sharing the links to the patterns as well.

I've also been making loads of ATCs and Postcards for various Swap-bot swaps... (I am only posting pics of things that have been received by the swap-ee)

I've even had the opportunity to sit down with my art journal again--YaY!!!

And today I am spending a very relaxing day at home and I'm actually KNITTING! It's been a long time since I've picked up my knitting needles and I didn't realize how very much I missed it.

Until next time, take care my friends!

♥♥♥

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Romans 5:1

ASE's Sunflower Bookmark-Free Crochet Pattern

2010-12-22T15:54:00.000-06:00

ASE's Sunflower Bookmark-Crochet Pattern
©Anita Elmore aka ASE Knits 'n' Crochets
http://aseknc.blogspot.com/
aseknc@gmail.com
♥

Materials

Yarn: Worsted Weight, 3 colors in very minimal amounts. I used brown, orange-y yellow and green
Hook: US G/6 (4mm)

Notes

This would be a great pattern to use up those small amounts of scraps and can be done in just about any color combination!
This pattern literally took less than 10 minutes to make from start to finish...how great is that for a quick gift!?!?
The leaf I used is not my pattern. It is a free, very easy pattern by Tara at Easy and she has it listed on Ravelry too!

Terms and Abbreviations

CO = cast on
ch = chain
sc = single chain
sts = stitches
sl st = slip stitch
beg = beginning
x = times (example 6x = 6 times)
FO = finish off

Flower

with center color of choice...

Round 1: CO & ch 2; sc 6 in 2nd ch from hook, join with a sl st to beg sc & FO (6)

Round 2: attach petal color with sl st into any sc. (Ch 6, sc into same sc, sl st into next sc)6x, ch 6, sc into same sc, sl st into first sc of previous row (this is the same one the first petal was done in), ch 6, sc into same sc & FO.

Stem

with green (or stem color of choice), attach through two back loops of any two adjacent petals (see pic below) and chain 45. If you want to add leaf, do not FO, but go directly into your favorite leaf pattern. If you use the one I linked to in the above notes, start at Rnd 1 and complete. FO.

♥♥♥

Because thy loving kindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee.
Psalm 63:3

Incoming Creativity and Free Crochet Bookmark Patterns

2010-12-22T01:38:00.000-06:00

Hello my wonderful friends!

Do you miss actual postal service delivered "snail mail" as much as I do did?

I look so forward to going to check my mail these days. Every time I turn the key I feel like I am opening a gift on Christmas morning, just wondering what's inside! Sometimes it's the mail equivalent to socks (junk mail) but sometimes I get something so fun and gorgeous that I feel like I am 10 years old and just got the one thing I've been dreaming about all year! Something like these wonderful pieces of mail art....

that were sent "just because,"

or these lovelies sent to me as part of a swap...

This set was from Nikki for the Willowing.ning November Butterflies ATC swap, and here's what I sent her....

and this ATC was from Leila for the Blissfull ATC Swap for December, the theme was angels...

and this is the one I sent her...

Now that the holidays are upon us I have even gotten a couple of gorgeous Christmas postcards from a couple of my wonderfully creative friends, Laura and Courtney...

I sent out tons of handmade Christmas postcards as well! You can view them on my flickr page.

Cards aren't the only thing I've been creating lately either! I have made quite a few postcards and ATCs (ATCs are Artist Trading Cards) that I can't show right now because their recipients haven't gotten them yet.

I've also been doing alot of crochet work on Christmas presents and little extras to send out with my swaps. Like this swan bookmark...

I followed this pattern and I have to say, for the most part it was easy, but I had some trouble figuring out the way/direction I was supposed to be working the pattern where it transitions from the head to the neck of the swan. I think it turned out ok, but in the end, I still think that the neck is twisted, and I don't think it's supposed to be.

I also made this sunflower bookmark...

I started out intending to use this free pattern, but once I started on it, it just wasn't looking like I was envisioning so I frogged it and made up my own. I will post what I did in a separate post all it's own for ease of finding and using, so you'll get two posts today! :o)

♥♥♥

A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person's strength.
Proverbs 17:22 NLT

A Request for Prayer

2010-12-13T15:52:00.000-06:00

My friends, I just got some very sad news.

My cousin's 19 year old son just died of an overdose.

I can't even imagine the heartbreak of losing a child no matter what the age or circumstance, but at 19 he was still very much a baby and the circumstances are so abrupt and disheartening.

I would really appreciate your prayers for my cousin Kathy as well as the rest of the family in this time of loss.

I also ask that you would cover my family in prayer as everyone is traveling for the funeral.

Thank you so much my friends.

Your thoughts and prayers mean so much.

♥♥♥

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you asthe world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27

Crochet Gift Pouch--So Cute!

2010-12-12T23:08:00.001-06:00

For some reason I have been very anxious all day today. When I feel like this I get overwhelmed easy so I haven't been able to sit down with my art nor a big yarn project. Not having anything to occupy my mind and hands made the anxiety worse, so I was thrilled to come across the pattern for this little cutie...

I first saw these darlin' little gift pouches over at Pammy Sue's Blog, where she had made up a couple and was kind enough to share the link to the original pattern found on Creative Jewish Mom's blog. Pammy Sue's turned out so great---I LOVE the colors she used!

This pattern was extremely easy to read and follow and it took less than an hour to make. I used an H hook and worsted weight cotton yarn and I followed the pattern just how it was written. To give you a good idea of the size of the pouch, I'd say that if you made it as written, it would hold a tennis ball perfectly all tied up.

I hope y'all enjoy the link!

♥♥♥

May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.
Psalm 19:14 NIV

Finally!

2010-12-11T21:43:00.000-06:00

After ripping it back and re-working it twice, I finally finished my tree skirt and I couldn't be happier with it!

Here's our tree, complete with various snowflakes I made last year and the tree skirt I finished this afternoon...

and here's a close-up of the tree skirt...

The free pattern for it is found on the Crochetville forums HERE.

It really is a super-easy pattern and quick to work up.

The problem I had was nothing to do with the pattern, but rather with my initial color choices.

Thank you my friends for letting me share with you!

♥♥♥

Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. And do everything with love.
1 Corinthians 16:13-14 NLT

Merry Christmas from Me ---> ASE's Little Lamb Knitting Pattern is Now FREE!

2010-12-09T19:56:00.000-06:00

This pattern was a paid pattern, but as my Christmas gift to all of my knitting followers, I am now offering it to you for free. Merry Christmas friends!

ASE's Little Lamb Knitting Pattern
©Anita Elmore aka ASE Knits 'n' Crochets
http://aseknc.blogspot.com/
aseknc@gmail.com
♥

You may not sell or claim this pattern as your own.
You may, however, sell any items you make using this pattern, all that I ask is that you give me credit as the designer with the info above.
Thank you for respecting my copyright.

Please enjoy!
♥

Materials

Worsted Weight Yarn (I used White & Light Brown, but you may use any colors that you'd like your Little Lamb to be!)
US 5 (3.75mm) Circular or Double Point Needles
Black safety eyes OR small amount of black thread/yarn for embriodering eyes
Poly-fil or toy stuffing of your choice
OPTIONAL: a rubber ball (from a quarter vending machine) to put in body for counter weight will assist your Little Lamb in standing up on its own.
OPTIONAL: Stitch Markers are also optional, but may be very helpful in keeping track of the beginnig of rounds.

Notes

When casting on each piece, be sure to leave long tails for sewing pieces together.
Different yarn weights may be substituted, however please adjust your needle size to be 2 or 3 sizes smaller than recommended for that yarn so that you end up with a denser/stiffer fabric more suitable for a stuffing.
For each piece, after you cast on required amount of stitches, divide evenly among your needles, join & continue by knitting in the round.
If you use a long-tail cast-on: Remember long-tail cast on always counts as cast on and first knit row/round.
Be creative! This is your lamb. Feel free to mix up colors, place the face at a different angle or direction, place the eyes further apart, closer together, lower on the head or even higher to give your little guy personality!
Pics to aid you in assembling are at the bottom of this post following the pattern. This gives you the option of printing the rest of the pattern without them to help you save ink!
When stuffing knit items, the goal is to stuff the piece(s) as much as possible without over-stretching the stitches. You don't want the stitches of the knit fabric to separate causing noticeable stretch lines.

Terms and Abbreviations

CO = Cast On
x = Times (ex: 6x = 6 times)
sts = Stitches
K = Knit
KFB = Knit in front & back of stitch
K2tog = Knit two together
BO = Bind Off

Finished Size*
Length: 9 inches
Width: 4 inches
Height: 5 inches
*sizes approximate & when recommended needles & yarn are used

Body
With White
CO 6
Divide between needles, join & begin knitting in round.
Round 1: Knit
Round 2: (KFB)6x (12)
Round 3: (K1, KFB)6x (18)
Round 4: (K2, KFB)6x (24)
Round 5: (K3, KFB)6x (30)
Round 6: (K4, KFB)6x (36)
Round 7: (K5, KFB)6x (42)
Round 8: (K6, KFB)6x (48)
Round 9: (K7, KFB)6x (54)
Round 10: (K8, KFB)6x (60)
Rounds 11-41: Knit
Round 42: (K8, K2tog)6x (54)
Round 43: (K7, K2tog)6x (48)
Round 44: (K6, K2tog)6x (42)
Round 45: (K5, K2tog)6x (36)
*Start stuffing body. If using bouncy-ball as counterweight, stuff until you reach the point where you started the decreases then position ball in center of stuffing right over beginning decreases (about round 42-43), continue stuffing as you complete body.
Round 46: (K4, K2tog)6x (30)
Round 47: (K3, K2tog)6x (24)
Round 48: (K2, K2tog)6x (18)
Round 49: (K1, K2tog)6x (12)
Round 50: (K2tog)6x (6)
Cut yarn and, using yarn needle, thread tail through remaining sts & cinch closed. If using ball for counter balance, be sure to mark this end & make sure you sew tail to this end.

Legs (make 4)
With Tan
CO 24
Divide between needles, join & begin knitting in round.
Rounds 1-9: Knit
Round 10: Purl
Round 11: Knit
Round 12: (K2, K2tog)6x
Round 13: (K1, K2tog)6x
Round 14: (K2tog)6x
Cut yarn and, using yarn needle, thread tail through remaining sts & cinch closed. Stuff & sew to body.

Tail
With White
CO 8
Divide between needles, join & begin knitting in round.
Rounds 1-9: Knit
Cut yarn and, using yarn needle, thread tail through sts, cinch closed & sew to body (no stuffing needed).

Face/Head
With Tan
CO 6
Divide between needles, join & begin knitting in round.
Round 1: Knit
Round 2: (KFB)6x (12)
Round 3: (K1, KFB)6x (18)
Round 4: (K2, KFB)6x (24)
Round 5: (K3, KFB)4x, K7, KFB (29)
Round 6: (K4, KFB)4x, K8, KFB (34)
Round 7: (K5, KFB)4x, K9, KFB (39)
Round 8: (K6, KFB)4x, K10, KFB (44)
Round 9: Knit
Round 10: (K7, KFB)4x, K11, KFB (49)
Round 11: Knit
Round 12: (K8, KFB)4x, K12, KFB (54)
Rounds 13-20: Knit
Round 21: (K8, K2tog)4x, K12, K2tog (49)
Round 22: Knit
*Start stuffing. If using safety eyes, place them at about Round 18 & about 5 or 6 stitches apart. Continue stuffing as you complete the head.

Begin Top "Fleece" Section of Head
With White Yarn
Round 23: (K7, K2tog)4x, K11, K2tog (44)
Round 24: Knit
Round 25: (K6, K2tog)4x, K10, K2tog (39)
Round 26: Knit
Round 27: (K5, K2tog)4x, K9, K2tog (34)
Round 28: (K4, K2tog)4x, K8, K2tog (29)
Round 29: (K3, K2tog)4x, K7, K2tog (24)
Round 30: (K2, K2tog)6x (18)
Round 31: (K1, K2tog)6x (12)
Round 32: (K2tog)6x (6)
Cut yarn and, using yarn needle, thread tail through remaining sts, cinch closed & sew to body.

Ears (make 2)
With Tan
CO 8
Divide between needles, join & begin knitting in round.
Rounds 1-9: Knit
Cut yarn and, using yarn needle, thread tail through sts, cinch closed & sew to head (no stuffing needed).

**I felt that these three attaching points were enough, as I really stitch it quite well, however, feel free to stitch it at more points as you see fit.

♥♥♥

If a man pays back evil for good, evil will never leave his house.
Proverbs 17:13 NIV

Merry Christmas from Me ---> ASE's Little Lamb Crochet Pattern is Now FREE!

2010-12-09T18:26:00.000-06:00

This pattern was a paid pattern, but as my Christmas gift to all of my crocheting followers, I am now offering it to you for free. Merry Christmas friends!

ASE's Little Lamb Crochet Pattern
©Anita Elmore aka ASE Knits 'n' Crochets
http://aseknc.blogspot.com/
aseknc@gmail.com
♥

Materials Needed
Yarn

Worsted Weight Yarn, 2 colors (I used white and tan)

Hook

US F/5 (3.75mm)

Notions

Stitch marker for marking beginning of rounds
Black safety eyes OR black thread/yarn to embroider eyes
Poly-fil or stuffing of your choice
Optional: Rubber bouncy ball (the kind you get from a quarter vending machine) to put in body as counter weight to aid standing on it's own. Please note, some of my testers didn't use the ball and still had no issues with their little lambs standing up on their own however, when I didn't use a bouncy ball my little lamb fell right on its nose!

Finished Size*
Length 8"
Height 5"
Width 3.75"
*when using recommended size hook and yarn

Terms and Abbreviations Used

CO cast on
ch chain
sc single chain
sts stitches
sl st slip stitch
FO finish off

Notes

Each piece is worked in continuous rounds; do not join with a slip stitch at end of rounds. Use stitch marker to mark beginning of round moving it up as your work progresses.
When finishing off each piece, be sure to leave long tails to use for sewing.
Be creative! Use your imagination and give your little lamb some personality. Try using different colors, making eyes further apart, closer together, higher up or lower down on the face. I made this one looking to the side and down a little (kind of bashful looking), but you may want yours looking straight ahead or directly to the side...it's up to you, just have fun with your creation!

Body
With White
Round 1: Ch 2, sc 6 in 2nd ch from hook (6)
Round 2: 2sc in ea st around (12)
Round 3: 2sc in ea st around (24)
Round 4: (sc in next 3 sts, 2sc in next st)6x (30)
Round 5: (sc in next 4 sts, 2sc in next st)6x (36)
Round 6: (sc in next 5 sts, 2sc in next st)6x (42)
Round 7: (sc in next 6 sts, 2sc in next st)6x (48)
Round 8-22: sc in ea st around (48)
*Stuff body
Round 23: (sc in next 6 sts, sc2tog)6x (42)
Round 24: (sc in next 5 sts, sc2tog)6x (36)
Round 25: (sc in next 4 sts, sc2tog)6x (30)
Round 26: (sc in next 3 sts, sc2tog)6x (24)
*If using rubber ball, place at end of stuffing already placed in body, centered approximately over the back legs, stuff more
Round 27: (sc2tog)around (12)
Round 28: (sc2tog)around (6)
FO, complete stuffing & cinch closed.

Legs (make 4)
With Tan
Round 1: Ch 2, 4 sc in 2nd ch from hook (4)
Round 2: 2 sc in ea st around (8)
Round 3: 2 sc in ea st around (16)
Round 4: In back loops only- sc in ea st around (16)
Round 5-10: sc in ea st around (16)
Join with sl st & FO
*Stuff each leg & sew to body.

Tail
With White
Round 1: Ch 2, 4 sc in 2nd ch from hook (4)
Round 2: 2 sc in ea st around (8)
Round 3-5: sc in ea st around (8)
Round 6: (sc2tog)4x (4)
Join with sl st & FO
*No need to stuff tail, just pinch open end together & sew to one end of body.

Face/Head
With Tan
Round 1: Ch 2, 6 sc in 2nd ch from hook (6)
Round 2: 2 sc in ea st around (12)
Round 3: 2 sc in ea st around (24)
Round 4: sc in next 5 sts, 2sc in next 3 sts, (sc in next 2 sts, 2sc in next st)3x, 2sc in next 2 sts, sc in next 5 sts (32)
Round 5: (sc in next 3 sts, 2sc in next st)7x, sc in next 4 sts (39)
Round 6: sc in next 10 sts, 2sc in next st, (sc in next 8 sts, 2sc in next st)2x, sc in next 10 sts (42)
Round 7-11: sc in ea st around (42)
Round 12: (sc in next 5 sts, sc2tog)5x, sc in next 7 sts (37)
Round 13: sc in next 7 sts, (sc2tog, sc in next 4 sts)5x (32)
Round 14: (sc in next 5 sts, sc2tog)4x, sc in next 4 sts (28)
Round 15: sc in next 4 sts, (sc2tog, sc in next 4 sts)4x (24)
Round 16: sc in ea st around (24)
Join with sl st & FO
*Add safety eyes on row 13, about 4 stitches apart; stuff & begin "fleece" section as follows:
Attach White Yarn
Round 1-2: sc in ea st around (24)
Round 3: (sc in next 2 sts, sc2tog)6x (18)
Round 4: (sc 2tog)9x (9)
Round 5: (sc2tog)3x, FO & cinch closed.
*Sew to front of body, with flatter side against the body.

Ears (make 2)
With Tan
Round 1: Ch 2, 4 sc in 2nd ch from hook (4)
Round 2: 2 sc in ea st around (8)
Round 3-4: sc in ea st around (8)
Round 5: (sc2tog)4x (4)
Round 6: sc in ea st around (4)
Join with sl st & FO
*No need to stuff ears, just pinch open end together & sew on either side of head on the first row below white of "fleece" section.

♥♥♥

Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting, with strife.
Proverbs 17:1 NIV

Christmas Girls

2010-12-08T22:08:00.000-06:00

Hello friends!

I hope you're keepin' warm. It has been so cold here! I'm normally so warm natured, but I have had a chill all the way down to my bones all day! It's a good thing I've got stuff to keep me busy when I'm staying inside trying to keep warm. Like these Christmas postcards I started working on last night...

I made this one first...

I was so happy with how it turned out...at least until I was finished with the second one which I thought turned out better...

then this morning I immediately started working on this one....

and I like it sooooo much better than either of the first two.

I did this fourth one today too....

She reminds me of my sister Karen....well, except for the angel part, LoL.

I really like the last two the best....but now I think I need to re-do the first two.

Speaking of re-doing, I have started my tree skirt over twice! Both times because I wasn't happy with the color combination. Now I'm really lovin' the color combination that I've got going but I'm a bit burnt out on it. LoL Lucky for me it's a simple pattern. :o) I can't wait until I'm done so I can share it with you guys!

♥♥♥

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 3:16

...even if I don't blog every day! ;o)

Creative Report

2010-12-06T01:04:00.000-06:00

I feel so much better since I made the decision to combine my blogs.

I have some very supportive friends and followers and I want to thank you all for that!

I spent a good portion of the afternoon working on the tree skirt that I'm crocheting. We're putting up the tree tomorrow & I really want it to be done by the time we get that up. I'll share pics and the pattern link once it's all done and around the tree stand! :o)

Here's an art journal spread that I started Saturday and finished tonight...

I made this one for a prompt about "Change" over at Coach Creative Space (CCS).

What d'ya think?

Now it's time for me to take my little tired tushy to bed.

Sweet dreams my friends!

♥♥♥

God who has called you into fellowship with His Son Jesus Christ our Lord is faithful.

1 Corinthians 1:9 NIV

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes...

2010-12-05T19:05:00.000-06:00

Hello my wonderful friends!!

I have finally decided to bite the bullet and combine my two blogs.

The results of the survey I posted a while back were very positive, with most people thinking it was either a great idea, or that whatever made me happy was good and only one person saying that they would leave if I did so. To that one person I apologize. I really do hope you'll reconsider and stick with me. I just can't give two blogs ample attention and I don't want to neglect either. Since this has been my main blog for so long, I will be keeping this address and will be posting everything here from now on...with a new name to reflect all creativity.

I hope that you will all understand and will continue to hang around with your friendship and support because I sure do love you guys!

♥♥♥

A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of need.
Proverbs 17:17 NLT

A Crochet Gift and Link to a Free Plus-Size Pattern

2010-11-27T22:15:00.001-06:00

My friend Courtney and I decided to do a friendship swap and I made this little teacup and saucer set for her....

...it was my first time doing tapestry crochet, but she loves tea-related things so I just had to make it for her! The pattern was in the April 2008 issue of Crochet World Magazine.

I also sent her the pumpkin that I had made for her, and I also made her a few other goodies and decorated the box I shipped them in really pretty for her. (You'll be able to see that on my Art and Journaling blog)

Now I'm working on a laced up camisole plus-size set...a free pattern! :o)

♥♥♥

Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.
Proverbs 21:9

Happy Thanksgiving and a Special Birthday Wish

2010-11-25T14:23:00.000-06:00

To all of my friends and family I wish you....

Today would have been my Daddy's 67th birthday.

Cheers to my Daddy!

I love you so much and miss you immensely.

♥♥♥

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Philippians 4:6 NIV

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

2010-11-23T22:04:00.000-06:00

I haven't forgotten about you, I promise!

I've been having a rough last few weeks. My Daddy (who passed away two years ago) would have been celebrating his birthday on November 25. Even after two years, I still have dreams of my Daddy. He was by no means a perfect man, or the perfect dad, but I can't express how very much I miss him! Even as I am typing, I can't stop the tears from coming. I hope you guys will forgive me for not posting more. I just don't have the heart to do it right now.

I have been doing a lot of crocheting. All of it has been on gifts, so I can't discuss what right now, but my fingers haven't been idle, LoL.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday my friends & please, don't take for granted those you love and let them know how thankful you are to have them. I tell you with all sincerity, I am truly thankful for all of you!

With all my heart,

♥Anita

And since we have been made right in God's sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God's condemnation.
Romans 5:9 NLT

Crocheted Baby Hat With Free Pattern Link

2010-11-10T00:23:00.000-06:00

I made this cutie for my great-niece. I was going to add a flower to it, but decided to go with the ribbon so that her mama could adjust it if needed.

This really was a very well-written pattern, easy to follow and quick and easy to make up.

I got the pattern from Ravelry. You will have to download it there.

Enjoy!

♥

but those who hope in the LORD
   will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
   they will run and not grow weary,
   they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 40:31 NIV

Crochet Hat & Another Free Pattern Link

2010-11-09T20:06:00.000-06:00

I found this pattern on Ravelry and you can download it directly from this blog.

It was a great pattern, very well written and easy to follow, however I did find that the hat was too tight at the edge from the slst and to compensate I modified rows 17 & 22. Here’s what I did:

Row 17- ch1, sc in next st (2 sc in next st, 1 sc in next st) repeat from in next 28 sts.

Row 22- Same as original pattern thru the hdc THEN: SC around back of hat to beginning of brim, join w/ slst to beginning hdc.

Also, the pattern for the flower isn't included so I used this pattern that I also found on Ravelry, where you also download it from. I did this in two colors and after I did the end of the petals row of color #1 (back color), I joined and finished off then attached color #2 (front color) and continued following the directions in the pattern.

I hope this helps someone! :o)

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:13 NIV

A Crochet Hat & Free Pattern Link

2010-11-04T22:51:00.001-05:00

Today really started out rough!

I woke up with a massive migraine and even my Excedrin Migraine didn't help to ease the pain, but after about 3 hours I took a pack of Goody Powders and Wayne sent me to bed; when I woke up it had eased to a mild headache and one more Goody Powder knocked it almost completely out.

Once the migraine was gone I had an uncontrollable urge to crochet....yep, my yarny mojo's back! YaY!

LoL

I took advantage of the desire and crocheted my niece a hat using the free pattern so generously shared by Michell in this post over at her blog Girl in Air.

It was a very straightforward and easy pattern to follow & I think little miss Kylee is going to love it!

The only thing I did different than written was on the flower. I wanted it to be pouffier (is that a word? LoL) so for each petal I did one extra ch and one extra dc. For example, for each of the smaller petals in front you were to (sl st, ch 1, 2 dc, ch 1, sl st ) but instead I did (sl st, ch 2, 3 dc, ch 2, sl st ).

Thanks for letting me share with you my friends!

I hope you enjoy the link.

♥

Fight the good fight for the true faith. Hold tightly to the eternal life to which God has called you, which you have confessed so well before many witnesses.
1 Timothy 6:12 NLT

Pumpkins Galore

2010-11-03T23:42:00.000-05:00

I finished crocheting a pumpkin that I made for a friendship swap today...

...these things are so popular! All of my friends are asking for them. I guess you could say that I've been up to my ears in pumpkins! LoL
Lucky for me Karla's pattern is so quick, easy and fun!

Finally, be strong in the LORD and in his mighty power.
Ephesians 6:10 NIV

A Birthday Post

2010-11-02T23:09:00.001-05:00

My son Jeremy turned 16 today!
Where does the time go???

Here he is around age 9/10...

and this one was taken just a couple of months ago...

I love you baby!

A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Proverbs 15:1 NIV

Just wanted to say...

2010-10-31T15:59:00.000-05:00

Have a fun and safe one!

God said, “let light shine out of the darkness,” and made His light shine in our hearts.
2Corinthians 4:6

Crocheted Pumpkin and I'm nominated!

2010-10-30T21:33:00.001-05:00

My friend Sherri asked me to make her a pumpkin with green leaves so I made her one using Karla's pattern from her CAL.

I took it to her today and she was so happy with it! She said it was exactly what she wanted and like I read her mind..but that it turned out even better than she expected! Talk about makin' a girl feel good! :o)

Another friend of mine that lives in Louisiana and I are doing a friendship swap and she asked for a pumpkin too, lol. She wants hers with the fall leaves, so you'll be seeing another one of those within the next day or so.

Speaking of makin' a girl feel good, Karla is having a contest to pick the best pumpkins of the patch from the ones made using her pattern and my flower pumpkin was nominated for Best Pumpkin Overall! Won't you go over and put your vote in?

There are also two other categories: 1. Most Creative Idea and 2. Best Pumpkin Photo. Be sure to vote in all the categories!

I also want to mention that even if you didn't join the CAL, you can still get the pattern for only $1!

Karla's patterns are so clear and well put together with lots of images to help you along.

A cheerful look brings joy to the heart of others.
Proverbs 15:30

The Least Among You-A DVD Review

2010-10-29T21:46:00.001-05:00

This DVD was reviewed for BookSneeze blogger review program and while I do get the books/DVDs that I review for free, I don't get any financial compensation for my reviews. I also want to assure you that I will always give you my honest opinions about any books/DVDs that I choose to review. I am not a professional writer or reviewer and my reviews will be in my everyday, southern, girl-next-door language. I call it like I see it and type it like I say it. With that said, on to the review!

-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-

The Least Among You, a movie inspired by a true story is described like this:

Arrested in the 1965 Watts riots, Richard Kelly (Cedric Sanders) must serve probation at an all-white seminary. Although encouraged to break racial boundaries by its president Alan Beckett (William Devane), the school wants black followers, not leaders. Even former missionary Kate Allison (Lauren Holly) initially rejects Richard. With a prison sentence looming, Richard meets Samuel Benton (Louis Gossett, Jr.)-"the gardener in the basement." As Samuel guides him through his many trials, Richard must choose between his dreams and his destiny.

I've always been drawn to movies that are based on/inspired by true stories and add to that some great actors-William Devane who I most remember from Knots Landing, Lauren Holly from Picket Fences and NCIS, and Louis Gosset, Jr, a wonderful actor who needs no introduction-and I was really looking forward to getting and watching this DVD!

Sad to say, but I was extremely disappointed. While the story itself was good and had a great message, it was one of the slowest, most drawn out movies I've ever seen and to be honest there's no way I would have sat through the whole thing if I were not reviewing it.

-♥-♥-♥-♥-♥-

Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11:28

I did it!!!

2010-10-27T18:23:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Glor for having her crochet-along, I have made my very first full-size doily!

I am so thrilled with how well it turned out!

Thanks Gloria!

I've been wanting to crochet a doily for the longest time, but I was so intimidated. Your CAL was just the encouragement I needed to bite the bullet and jump in and I am so glad I did! I can really see how easy it would be to become addicted to making them! :o)

Yes, Adam's one sin brings condemnation for everyone, but Christ's one act of righteousness brings a right relationship with God and new life for everyone.
Romans 5:18 NLT

Of Hats and Doilies

2010-10-17T20:59:00.000-05:00

My doily is almost done! I'm thinking that there is only another set or two of rows added to Glor's crochet along and I'll have me a beautiful doily. I'm really glad that I joined in on this for my very first full-size doily. It's really been an easy pattern to follow and if I have any questions I have my dear friend Glor is just an email away. That's been very comforting.

Here's my progress....

You know, it's funny how just one days worth of rows can totally change the look of a doily!

I finished my sister's hat today. Well, I finished a hat anyway; I'm not sure if this is going to my sister. It is cute, but you don't notice the increases in the cloche very well when it's on.

Here's the pic...

The pattern is Ilse Déthune's 30's Cloche Hat and it's free.

If you are on Ravelry you can find a PDF download here or you can go directly to the pattern on her blog here.

The pattern was really easy to follow until I got to the increases on Rows 20 & 22. It helps to view the PDF and the post on her blog if/when you have questions because it is written differently on the blog vs the PDF.

Well guys, that's it for me tonight. I'm ready to just hang out with my guys and relax.

I love ya's!

Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.
Proverbs 31:30-31 (NIV)

Progress

2010-10-16T17:07:00.000-05:00

My doily that I'm doing with Glor's crochet along is coming along marvelously.

Here's the newest pic of my doily...

I'm really happy with it, and I'm starting to feel my yarn-y mojo coming back too, woo-hooo!

I've even started a hat for my sister and it's almost done, YaY!

I hope you are having a truly awesome weekend.

I love ya's!

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.
Romans 12:9 NIV

Another Crocheted Soap Saver

2010-10-13T17:13:00.000-05:00

Last night Jeremy, my 15 year old, swiped the soap saver that I made last night, LoL.

He was being playful but said that he really liked it and that I should make him one. I have to tell ya, when my teenage sons enjoy something that I hand-make it really does make my heart happy! So, of course I told him that he could have that one and I made another one for my bathroom....

I worked from the same skein of yarn, because I knew I wouldn't have enough for another cloth or anything...plus I just think it's plum pretty! ;o)

Thanks for letting me share my yarn play with you.

I love ya's!

What matters is not your outer appearance-the styling of your hair, the jewelry you wear, the cut of your clothes-but your inner disposition. Cultivate inner beauty, the gentle, gracious kind that God delights in.
I Peter 3:3-4 MSG

Easy, Free Crochet Soap Saver Pattern

2010-10-12T22:02:00.000-05:00

Hey guys, I hope y'all have had a great day!

I've been pretty productive here and that tends to mean I've had a good day myself.

I just finished crocheting a little soap saver and as the title says, it's easy and the pattern's free, both great things so I wanted to share it with you! I have been wanting to make one of these, mainly for the small soap remnants that dear hubby would normally throw away. I really hate to waste anything and this little sack is perfect!

The pattern was recently listed on Ravelry or you can go directly to the pattern here at Pickin' Knits Pattern Co.

Here's how mine turned out...

The only changes I made were that I replaced the last round of sc with an extra round of dc and threaded the drawstring through the next to the last round of dc so that there was a little more of a "ruffle" at the opening.

Now, I'm off for the night.

I love you guys!

It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ
Titus 2:12-13 NIV

New Pumpkin Giveaway Winner and a CAL Update

2010-10-11T12:49:00.002-05:00

Hello my friends!

Unfortunately, Jackie never returned my emails so today I gave someone else a chance and picked a new winner. I used the same method as before and the original entries spreadsheet and our new winner is....

Congratulations hun!

I'll be getting in touch with you to get your mailing address so I can get your pumpkin out to you right away!

Last night I got to do the next set of rows for Glor's CAL and I am still so excited about doing it and I look forward to every new set of rows so that I can do more! I'm truly lovin' it! Here's my newest progress pic....

And before I close for today, I wanted to remind anyone that is interested that I get the honor of hosting a giveaway for an art/art journal micro-workshop over at my art and journaling blog. If you've ever thought you might like to start an art journal, or if already keep one and you'd just like to get some fresh ideas, be sure to go and enter to win this free workshop!

I pray that y'all have an extraordinary day!

I love ya's!!!

Guide older women into lives of reverence so they end up as neither gossips nor drunks, but models of goodness. By looking at them the younger women will know how to love their husbands and children, virtuous and pure, keep a good house, be good wives.

Titus 2:3-5

Another Giveaway and a Crochet Update

2010-10-09T14:28:00.000-05:00

Hello, hello!

I hope that your Saturday is as gorgeous there as it is here today. The temperature is a beautiful 79° with the sun shining in a clear sky and just a light breeze blowing....aaahhhh, wonderful!

Last night I completed the first day of Glor's CAL and I have to tell you, it was so great to be crocheting! Here's my progress at this point....

I can't wait to work on the next set of pattern instructions! This is the first time I've been excited about my yarn play in a while. I think this may just be the very thing to bring me out of my slump!

Here's a little sketch I did of my Chloe this morning while she was playing with Jeremy. She was just so happy! She doesn't enjoy playing with anyone the way she does him, LoL.

Here's a real pic of her with Daddy....

What do ya think? How'd I do???

Before I close today I wanted to let y'all know that I'm having another giveaway over on my art and journaling blog, so be sure to check it out!

Love ya's!

But whatever I am now, it is all because God poured out his special favor on me – and not without results.. yet it was not I but God who was working through me by his grace.
1Corinthians 15:10 NLT

A Modge-Podge of News and Tips

2010-10-07T17:52:00.001-05:00

First order of business today, try as I may I have been unable to get in touch with winner #2 of my pumpkin giveaway. If I don't hear anything from her by Monday morning I'm going to use Random.org to choose a different winner from the original entries.

**Jackie (tncrogard), if you happen to read this, I need you to email me with your mailing address so I can send you your pumpkin sweetpea.**

Now, for all of my friends who crochet I have found the single best way to start crocheting in the round....even better than the magic ring/circle! I found it a while back and it has been the only method I use now, so I asked Stacey of FreshStitches if I could share her method here with you guys and she was so sweet about it. You have to go to her post here and check it out! I'm gonna put a permanent link over on the sidebar too.

If you've never checked out Stacey's blog, you don't know what you're missing! You'll find loads of adorable amigurumi and hat patterns, both free and dang near free, and a wealth of tips and techniques and videos to help you be successful with amigurumi and so much more! Like this great tip about the photo studio you already have! I really encourage you to check her out.

As for me, I can't seem to find my yarn-play mojo. :o(

I've been doing a little something each day to try and get it back, but I'm in a definite yarn-y slump.

I'm going to join my friend and fellow crochet blogger Gloria in a CAL she's doing over at her blog. I'm really looking forward to making something with her and hopefully it'll help pull me out of this slump.

What have YOU been into?

Your job is to speak out on the things that make for sound doctrine.
Titus 2:1

Just for you...

2010-10-02T16:28:00.000-05:00

...and I love you!

I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13 NIV

And We Have Our Winners!!!!

2010-09-29T12:03:00.000-05:00

Are you excited?

Because I'm reeeeeaally excited! :o)

First, to keep track of the entries, as each person commented, I immediately put you on an Excel-type spreadsheet (I use OpenOffice free software) so that everyone would be listed in order of their comment/entry. This is what the final list looked like....

As you can see, the spreadsheet has each row numbered, so it really made it all super easy-peasy this morning when I went to Random.org to generate the winners. Pretty nifty, huh? :o)

Next thing I did was visit the handy-dandy Random.org website and in this nifty little box....

I changed the max number to 27 (the number of the last person to enter) and clicked on the 'Generate' button and ta-da! Winner #1 is.....

and then, I hit the 'Generate' button one more time and winner #2 is......

Wooo-Hooo!!!

Congratulations guys!

I'll be contacting both of you via email to get your mailing addresses and your pumpkins will be on their way!

Of course, all of my friends and followers are winners in my book.

I sure do love you guys!

Now, on another note, I need your help.

I'm thinking of combining my 3 blogs all into one and I would truly appreciate your input.

If you'll look up there at the top of the right-hand column, just above my 'About me' section, you'll see a poll. It would really help me out alot in this decision if you'd select the choice that most closely matches how you feel about me combining the blogs and then click on the 'vote' button. Thanks my friends!

I sure pray y'all have a gorgeous and abundantly blessed day!

I love ya's!

♥Anita

Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
~Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV)

Another Crochet Pumpkin and a Giveaway!

2010-09-21T15:21:00.001-05:00

Karla's pumpkins are definitely addictive!

I knew when I done my first one that I definitely wanted to make another one and here's what I came up with this time...

What d'ya think?

I got so many lovely comments on my first pumpkin, both here and on my Flickr page.

I can't fully express how much your comments mean to me. They truly do fill my heart with so much joy that a simple 'Thank you' response just doesn't seem like enough to convey that. So, in hopes to show my true appreciation, I'm having my very first giveaway and I'm not just giving away one thing, but two! These two...

I'll be using a random number generator to choose two winners.

Each person also has two chances to win!

Chance/Entry #1: All you gotta do is leave me a comment here. Say anything you'd like! If you tell me which one you like best and you win, I'll try and send you the one you like. (First person chosen gets the one they chose if they listed a preference and then I'll go from there.)
Chance/Entry #2: Share the giveaway with others on your own blog. Tell your friends and followers, complete with link to this post, then come back here and leave me the link to your post in a second comment. **you have to make the second comment for it to count as a second entry.**

**PLEASE READ: Please, make sure your blog and or email is linked to your comment OR type it out within your comment so that I can get in touch with you if you win.**

That's it! You have until Tuesday at noon central standard time to leave your comments.

Good luck my friends!

Much love,

♥Anita

As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for the living God.
Psalm 42:1-2

Pretty Crocheted Pumpkin

2010-09-16T14:40:00.001-05:00

I am so excited!

Last night I finished my pumpkin from the CAL and it turned out sooooo cute!!!

Maybe I shouldn't say that about something that I made myself, but I really love it! Karla told us to be creative with our pumpkins and make them our own and immediately I had a vision in mind. Here's how it turned out...

I had to take pics of each section around because I pretty much decorated the whole thing with an embroidered chain stitch "vine" and crocheted flowers.

What do you think???

I'm off now to show Karla and see what she thinks too!

Have a great day friends!

Love ya's,

♥Anita

And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
Acts 2:21

Dolly's

2010-09-15T11:37:00.000-05:00

Chloe and Cora Lee have been listed on Etsy!

Chloe is here.

Cora Lee is here.

Thanks for checkin' 'em out! ;o)

Love y'as!

♥Anita

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater power with us than with him.

2 Chronicles 32:7 NIV

Procrastination

2010-09-15T10:29:00.000-05:00

You know, I am such a procrastinator. Really. I struggle with this in everything and I absolutely hate it! I simply can't get motivated unless it's "down to the wire". Wayne tells me I'm not happy unless my hair's on fire. I think maybe part of it is an adrenaline thing. You know, that big burst of energy you have when you know you're facing a deadline...my blood just gets to pumpin' and I am so productive then. I get that same burst of energy late at night too.

Of course there are other contributors to my procrastination issue. One is hereditary, that's for sure. Another contributor is a lack of enthusiasm for what needs to be done. Something particular I am bad to procrastinate about doing is taking pictures of my work. I have to admit that there are times when I don't post because I can't bring myself to take pics. Don't get me wrong, it's not that i don't enjoy taking pics as a general rule, but all of the blogging and Etsy tips about how important it is to take good pics has shifted the whole dynamics of the process from being a pleasurable activity to one of dread. It's not a carefree thing, there's getting out a solid white background to aid in the lighting, then because I have such an old and low megapixel camera I have to edit the pics before I can post them anywhere. Not just to enhance an already great pic, but to get rid of the grainy-ness and fix the brightness and color to get a more accurate representation of the item. It's really quite a chore. Even when I'm not necessarily unmotivated to tackle the task, it's still quite time-consuming in a day already busy with homeschool lessons, housekeeping and various errands. *sighs* But any...way....that's my little ramble for today, LoL. Thanks for letting me share.

Good news is I'm feeling much better lately! My migraines are still leaving me in peace, praise God!!! YaY! The boys' lessons are going great and I have never been more in love with my husband. Another shout out to the good Lord for that one too! :o)

I'm working on my pumpkin for the Pumpkin CAL over at the Itsy Bitsy Spider that I told ya about. You should check out the flickr group pics of the pumpkins that have sprouted up in the patch so far! :o)

I pray that y'all are having a great week.

I love ya's!

♥Anita

In the morning, O LORD, You hear my voice. In the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation.

Psalm 5:3

Busy-ness and Christmas Crochet and Knitting

2010-09-11T14:30:00.000-05:00

Hello my friends!

Things are still super-crazy around here, but in a good way. My migraines have left me some peace for a bit now and the boys lessons are going good, though they still keep me on my toes! LoL. Do you go through spells where it just seems like there isn't enough hours in the day to do what you need to do, let alone what you want to do? Whew! Well, that's where I'm at now! And guess what? Christmas is barely over 3 months away! That's way too soon if you're buying gifts, and if you're handmaking them then you better get your rear in gear! I am making quite a few Christmas gifts and some are big projects and some of the recipients actually read my blog so discussing what I'm working on and showing pics will be absolutely out of the question (though it will give me plenty to share once Christmas is over! hehehe).

With all the busy-ness that is going on right now, I hope that you'll bear with me over the next few months if I don't get to post as often. I am committing to no less than one post a week, so you will most definitely still hear from me and some weeks it may be every day or two...just depending what is going on at any given time.

Today I am going to leave you with a tip that I've been meaning to share for quite some time. It was supposed to be a Tuesday's Tip, but since I'm not able to post as regularly right now I'll just post it while I'm thinkin' about it. ;o)

I found that I wanted something handy, though not too bulky to have nearby that I could just drop the end of my scissors in so that they would be easily accessible so that I could just grab them without having to fiddle with opening anything or pulling off a tip protector every time I needed to snip something. However, I also didn't want them just lying around and I wanted something that wouldn't damage the pointed ends of them either. Well, I found the perfect solution for my situation.....a bathroom toothbrush holder. Yep! $2 at Walmart if I remember correctly and it is the handiest thing! There is two holes for "toothbrushes" and I use one for the particular hook(s) and/or needles that I am working with at any given time and the other hole I use for my scissors! I just drop 'em right in and they're right there for the pickin' when I need 'em! YaY! There is also a more oval hole that goes along the back half of the holder that is for "toothpaste" but I keep a small ruler, a nail file, my stuffing poker stick (lol...nice term, huh?) and a pen or two in it. It sits nicely on my end table, right next to my pincushion. In the pic below you'll also see my hook canister that is just a Crystal Light canister that I Mod Podged scrapbook paper too. Pretty cool huh? I hope that this tip is one that you can use!

Have an extremely awesome and blessed weekend!

Love and hugs,

♥Anita

For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Ephesians 2:10 NIV

Sunday's Square

2010-09-05T12:17:00.000-05:00

Hello and Happy Sunday!

I hope that you are having an absolutely marvelous day.

Yesterday I mentioned that I had a couple of squares for you, but I was mistaken. I actually have a couple of pics of one square. Sorry about that, I didn't mean to fib to ya.

This square is actually a dishcloth pattern from the Annie's Attic book I had mentioned before. The same one the daffodil in yesterday's post came from.

This one is called a Cluster Dishcloth.

Here's a close-up:

This was so simple, but I loved the turn out.

I also just noticed that I photographed it sideways.

Yeah, that is a pretty good analogy of me...sideways, lol.

I pray that you are having a blessed and wonderful day!

Much love,

♥Anita

"I am the Alpha and the Omega--the beginning and the end," says the Lord God. "I am the one who is, who always was, and who is still to come--the Almighty One."

Revelation 1:8 NLT

Another Feature

2010-09-04T19:08:00.000-05:00

One Pretty Thing

featured my lil' country girl doll on today's Flickr Friends Roundup!!!

I am so excited!

She also helped me give my lil' country girl a name.

She is now Cora Lee, how sweet and fitting is that!?!

Thank you my friends for letting me share with you.

Love ya's!

♥Anita

Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends.

Revelation 3:20 NLT

Happy Saturday!

2010-09-04T13:37:00.000-05:00

Hello my friends!

I hope y'all are on your way to having a great weekend!

Things have been uber-crazy around here, but generally all is well. My only complaint in life right now is that I'm still fighting these dang migraines...which in turn makes my tummy not feel to well either! Thank you to all my friends that have been sending up prayers and sending good thoughts my way.

I have to admit that I have only gotten minimal yarn work done lately. I did however work up this gorgeous daffodil out of that Annie's Attic "Big Book of Dishcloths, Pot Holders & Scrubbies" that I mentioned before. It was supposed to be a scrubby, but I stopped with just the flower. I love it!

What do you think?

"Flowers are a proud assertion that a ray of beauty out values all the utilities of the world."

~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

I'm also working on a new design, it's just coming along alot slower than it normally takes with all the other busy-ness that's been going on around here. Speaking of designs, I have gotten alot of great feedback about my bookworm and I've decided to work up the pattern for him, so be looking for that soon! I do have a couple of squares to show you tomorrow for Sunday's Squares too!

My artistic side has really come out of it's shell and is taking on a life of its own, so I decided that it would be best to have a designated blog space for my art and journaling.

Be sure to check it out and I do hope you'll visit often and enjoy joining me as I take this journey!

That's all the news I have for now.

I pray y'all have a wonderful, blessed and safe holiday weekend!

Much love,

♥Anita

Since you are my rock and my fortress, for the sake of your name lead and guide me.

Psalm 31:3 NIV

Join Me in a Crochet Along

2010-09-02T15:41:00.001-05:00

Hello friends!

Ok, y'all have heard me talk quite a bit about my fellow crocheter/blogger (and one of my crochet/amigurumi heroes!) Karla of The Itsy Bitsy Spider and I am so excited that she is having a Pumpkin Patch Crochet-Along! Her last crochet-along was The Great Owl Crochet-Along and I was going through some family stuff and totally missed out on it :o( so I'm especially excited about this one! So y'all really do have to join with me. It's free to join and everyone gets a copy of the Pumpkin #1 pattern.

Now, go over to this post at The Itsy Bitsy Spider, get the details, sign up and join me in helping Karla make a pumpkin patch!

Love ya's!

♥Anita

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy…

John 10:10 NASB

My Latest Crochet Work

2010-08-28T00:11:00.000-05:00

I was finally able to take pics....YaY!

Add to that the relief that I've had from the migraines and I am a happy woman, lol.

Ahhh, simple pleasures!

In Monday's post I told you about some of the things I had been working on and I now I get to show you!

First, here's the newest dolly...

I call her my Lil' Country Girl. I just love the pigtail braids and the freckles!

Next I mentioned the really big dishcloth I made...

I also told you about a new amigurumi design and I finished it!

I present to you my bookworm....

What d'ya think? Do you think it's a pattern I should offer?

The little apple was my son's idea & I think it really gave it that extra somethin' that pulled it all together.

Finally, I told you about my new found creative outlet, art journaling. Here's my very first page...

Considering I had limited supplies/materials and just used what I had on hand around the house, I really like it!

Thank you my friends for allowing me to share my creativity with you.

I sure do love you guys!

The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing. Zephania 3:17 NIV