Holy cucumber batman

So I haven't been checking my garden much this summer because we were invaded by bunnies & I didn't think much would survive. They pretty much killed all my broccoli & cauliflower plants except 1. Welllllll I went to check on the peppers & cucumber tonight when I let the dogs out & happened to glance under a big leaf holy crap! Check these out, yes that is a 20oz bottle for size comparison.

I finally took some pictures while I had the camera out. This is my second attempt at a knit hat. Basically the same style I made as before but in the correct size this time. It's made from recycled yarn that looks like a handspun but is an acrylic, I love it & will probably wear it a lot this winter.

I also have a picture of my progress on the top down raglan. I'm making it in a 3x size probably solid black with 3/4 length sleeves. I'm pretty slow at knitting this is probably 15+hrs of work.

If you read my blog you know I have picked up knitting again after 20+ years. We I decided to jump in head first & I'm knitting a sweater from this http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=152316.0 pattern on craftster of a design your own top down raglan. Can I just say again how freakin long knitting takes OH MY GOD. It took almost the whole time of watching Starship Troopers to finish the neck. I watch Knitty Gritty so I would say I am at a medium pace geezy peez I've only gotten 3in done. well at least I started early for winter. I'm making it out of caron simply soft......I try every experiment with cheap yarn so I won't get mad if I have to scrap it in black. I think I want to make it solid black I think it will look great with my knee high leather boots this winter. I say a cute black with a little shimmer yarn the other night while at wal-mart, I may do a couple rows of it to keep me from nodding off while I knit.

And speaking of Wal-Mart chuckles & I decided to cruise by Barnes & nobles friday after I got off work at midnight to see if it was crazy. Not too bad a bunch of zitty teenagers dressed up, people actually couldn't wait they were standing outside reading. I think its amazing that someone has captured kids so much that there is a group that will wait outside for a book instead of a video game system...I love it. I wish more kids would get into reading as much.

I received my copy of I Am Legend last week & sat & read it & the other stories up to mad house ( I think). Not bad you can def tell it was written in the 50's but it's not too dated just a little tame on the violence & gore. I never knew his story Dance of the Dead was the inspiration for the masters of horror episode until I started to read it & I was like wait a minute this sounds familiar.

Chuckles & I rented some movies last night. We were both in a horror movies so we got 2 of the 8 movies in the horror fest, don't rent them they are BORING. I got one called the breed with angela rodrigues *drool* in it which will be worth it just cause she is in it & the new hitcher which I already saw the first but it wasn't my choice. I swear I will post some project pictures soon I have been playing mamma bear to chuckles because the toothache.

I have finished a knitted hat & a bunch of swap items & I'm going to get sewing for the latest one I entered a secret craftster swap, I've never done one before so it should be fun. There is suppose to be a zombie swap starting soon & chuckles was like you got to join it! Duh

Oh damn its 9:59 I'm outa work WOO HOO!!!!

New items on my shop

I listed 2 knit patterns on my shop that are tree patterns. Very cool check them out.

Score!!

So chuckles & I decided to hit some garage sales today. Yes I know all the good stuff is usually gone by friday but we were bored. I can't believe all the pure crap people try to sell. We actually skipped a lot & were headed to the thrift store when I had chuckles turn around to check out one we passed. I got a huggies wipes box full of clay molds...mostly faces & flowers for $2. Then we decided (we being me) to go to the thrift store. I found 3 good craft magazines. 1 of knit stitches which I may split up & sell on etsy. a crochet one to make cozies for casserole dishes which I have been practicing & one of various crafts that had a cute crochet afghan pattern. I also got 2 flat sheets one to make a skirt of & another to make the cozies out of, 2 gifts in a jar books still with tags, a cheesie romance novel and the best thing a sewing basket with a dowel for thread that is too cute that had its original tag of $26 on it, all of this for $12. Not bad. I need to take some pics to show the things I have been working on.

New item listed

This is the newest item I listed on my etsy shop. If you have read my blog before you have seen these. My original patter for a yarn ball holder. Its so you can walk & knit/crochet.
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6443267

check it out, I do custom orders on this item also

I listed a new circular needle & DPN case on etsy today I hope it does as well as the other I was really surprised at how fast the first one sold.

Today Chuckles my father & I changed the brake pads & front rotors on chuckles Rendezvous. Not bad for 2 fatties & an old fart only took us 4hrs. We decided to hit 1/2 price books after we left my dads & I got a copy of Year Zero, it looked ok. Chuckles also found 2 copies of Foxfire #3&5. If you don't know about foxfire I recommend checking them out if you are into natural homemade basic living. It's a series of books that started out as a magazine about how people live in the Appalachian mountains. The cover everything from mid-wives, tanning hides, canning food yada yada.

For my swap partner

Things about me....

My sizes:
clothing-3X
shoes-10
hats-XL
ring-7
height-5'11"
weight-260(dropping about 1-2lbs a week)
ankles-9-9.5in
wrists/hands-small(It's weird but I'm a amazon with tiny hands)
pierced ears (3 on each ear actually)
14g barbell in my tongue
18g ring in my nipple

Clothes I like:
Skirts, especially long peasant style tiered skirts
flip-flops. I don't wear socks in the summer & part of the fall
scarves
shawls/wraps
fetish wear mmmmm
corsets
knit hats (it's hard to find one that fits so I wear the few I have a lot)
hippy dresses

My style:
I dress like a combo of a hippy & preppy
I LOVE Old Navy....well because its cheap & everything is basic
I love wearing a wild print & a solid together with funk jewelry
I buy things more on texture than looks but I do try to stay current
Fall/winter is my favorite time for clothing you can layer & all the yummy sweaters start coming into season. I'm very much a sucker for something I can pet
I love body glitter
painting my toenails (my fingernails are horribly short)

Sense of humor:
I have a VERY dry sense of humor. sometimes people think I'm serious
I'm very sarcastic
I love freaking people out & making them think
I don't believe in making fun of other people but will make fun of myself a LOT....but I am kinda snarky & say "what was she thinking when she decided to wear that today" quite often

The house/family:
I'm in a committed relationship
I'm queer but not heterophobic (meaning I love men just don't want one)
No kids yet, but definitely want them
2 dogs a weenie & chihuahua
1 cat
I own my house its 110yrs old
My style is Pottery Barn on an Ikea budget
I love natural wood, maroon, paisley, things with texture in my house

Things I like:
sea turtles
celtic knots
owls
trees
large handbags
Ikea
vintage buttons
60s-70s fabric
recycled items
books (trash romance novels, horror, dean koontz, DIY)
fingerless gloves
long wrist warmers
shells especially abalone style
baked goods smells
real sunflowers
rainbow anything
socks with toes
stretchy toe rings, I have weird shaped toes so can't wear the metal ones
paisley
mermaids
zombies
pin-ups
ankle bracelets
tea hot or cold
iced coffee drinks

Things I would love to get:
Bags. Especially project bags. I like them to have a really big body with 2 short straps
Quilts. Yeah I know that's a big one
Wall hangings. Think maroons & browns in lush fabrics with a little bit of India style embroidery
Hats. I have a big mellon
fingerless gloves
chunky bead necklace
vintage fabric. Oranges & browns, 70's butterflies
handspun yarn
sarcastic t-shirts
handmade paper
tarts (the melty type not the food)
crochet patterns
plus size sewing patterns


Things I DON'T like:
things made from duct tape
sequins
rhinestones
floral smells especially lotions
clutch style purses(the ones that look like envelopes)
messenger bags
the smell of smoke
cell phone cozies
amagriwhatevers, it's a crocheted suffed animal for petes sake
stuffies
I like things to have a use, no knicknacks


Politics & beliefs:
I don't have a set religion. The closest I would compare my beliefs to would be a mix of Pagan, wiccan, goddesss worship, greek/roman gods, nature worship & a little bit of Buddhist mixed in. Basically be nice to everyone treat them as you would be treated & if there is a god/goddess he/she shouldn't be feared they would be all loving.
I'm not part of any political party.
I'm pro-choice for everyone else & pro-life for myself (I couldn't do it but who am I to tell others what to do)
I hate prejudice of any kind
I'm very fat positive & hate "style" magazines & I think they should only show real women not skeletons
I don't believe in censorship. I think every "shock" moment is an opportunity to educate your child.
I believe in over educating teens about sex, lack of education is the main reason AIDS is still around
I think the state of the world is also because of people being uneducated. There would be no war if people could talk out their differences...but again I'm a realist about it.

Crafts I want to learn:
spinning
glass blowing
soap making from scratch
hairpin crochet-learned but need patterns
wheel thrown pottery
welding
large loom weaving
carving wood on a lathe
pyrogrophy (woodburning)
dying with natural items
furniture making
applique quilting
tattooing


What I would love to do in life:
Live in the boonies or on a farm away from most people.
Become totally self sufficient, solar power, organic grown veggies, sheep to raise & sheer for fiber, growing fruit for baby food yada yada
homeschooling my kid(s)
I'm a little bit of a paranoid survivalist & I want to be able to not have to depend on others
Be self-employed or doing a job I love so I can spend time with my family & be able to putter around in a craft shed

I will update as I find other things

Rainy day

I haven't taken any pics of the crafty items I've made lately but I did get some cool pics of the rain today. I was a torrential downpour for all of 30mins & they were testing the tornado warnings today during it......how stupid is that, sure lets test the tornado warning sirens while it looks like there may actually be one we won't freak anyone out nahh. Now I'm curious to know how many dumbasses actually hit the basement when they heard it.

I have completed a knit hat out of some thick/thin that I recycled from a sweater that looks like a handspun but is really an acrylic. I'm in a morbid mood so to me the colors look like brain matter. It has blood red, grey, yellow I will post a pic later its been an eventful couple days.

I listed a case made specifically to hold your circular needles & DPS on my etsy shop if anyone is interested. I will load an image when blogger stops giving me attitude.

UPDATE: Ok so I listed this item Sunday afternoon & it sold on Monday. How freaking cool is that!!! I made another to see if it was just a fluke or if more people will like them.

I posted some new knit patterns tonight on etsy if anyone is interested. I'm only charging $3.50 & I can send it anywhere via e-mail. Check them out

Just a little forwarning for all the pro knitters out there before you laugh at the below post please take note I haven't knitted with needles since I was 8 & I'm 28 now. Also I was really bad at it that's why I tried crochet.

So I really like knitted hats & arm/wristwarmers so after watching a bazillion episodes of Knitty Gritty I got the urge to try knitting again. Let it be know I really REALLY hate how long knitting takes so it will probably take me forever to finish something because I will have to stop every so often to work on something because I get bored. Anyways I made a hat using size 5 circular & DPNs......and it was my first time working with both thank you very much. I can say I really do not like DPNs. The yarn is bernat denim style. I like to practice with a cheap yarn so I won't care if I frog it. I didn't follow a pattern becuase frankly I wasn't sure if I could so I looked up a couple hat patterns & saw what the average cast on stitches were & went from there. Its a little big & short so I may add a row of sc around the brim to tighten & lengthen it. Not sure yet but I kinda proud of myself for a first try. And if you are wondering yes my glasses are ghetto & taped I haven't had time to schedule a new eye appointment.

In other crafty news I recieved one of my swap packages for the dishcloth swap.

Day by Day Armageddon

So I was looking for a copy of I am Legend on amazon the other day & came across a book called day by day armageddon selling for between $33-$100 for a paperback. I was like um ok WHY? So I read the reviews sounded pretty good. I'm normally not the journal format type of book reader BUT I am a big zombie apocalypse freak so I checked it out. There is a free preview of the month of January in the book here http://www.tacticalunderground.us/journal1.htm and I honestly enjoyed it so I ordered it thru books & company. I had stopped by my actual store location the other day while out to see 1408 (which I will comment on later) and the dude at the store said they had it but it had to be shipped to my house for $17 something so I came home & got on their site & it was only $15.99. It's a special order so it may be out of print but it doesn't hurt to try. Chuckles read the preview & was like we're gonna fight over the book pshaw I bought it, I get first dibs.

On a crafty note I finished the dishcloths for both of my swap partners & hope they enjoy them. I went to Trader Joes today to pick something up for my crochet goodie bag swap. I know you're thinking ok what is at trader joes that has to do with crochet......you'll just have to wait till the swap is over & I can post pics.

My hands have been KILLING me today & guess what it's been raining most of the day hmmmm & the doc says it's a pinched nerve suuuuuure couldn't be arthritis nah the doctor who gave me bextra (yeah the one that causes strokes) could never be wrong. If you are wondering I took like 2 of the sample pills he gave me of bextra & didn't notice a change so I put them in a cabinet....lucky for me huh. I threw them out after I saw the recall & lawsuits. I did finish a small crochet project for the crochet swap it helps with the stiffness but I can't do much or they will hurt more.

I have to work tomorrow bleck. I need a new job..........please fairy godmothers of great careers help me get a new job that won't drive me insane and I can pay the mortgage with oh & I can be creative at & I don't get a dick for a boss. I think I should just become a foot fetish model oiy

Garden swap

Here are the items I sent in my last swap. Click to enlarge

From top left clockwise.

~A garden tool tote. The lining was made with a vinyl tablecloth so it would be easy to clean. I made it baby crib bumper style so she could sit small plants in the open area.

~a metal cake pan. This is an old trick my grandmother used to keep the birds & some animals out of her garden. The noise it makes when it hits the stick scares the crap out of them.

~a rockabilly headband, you really cant see it in the pic but there are little skulls in the hankie print. When I bought this fabric there was a religious lady behind the counter...one of the ones that wears the little white cap over their buns...anyways she was like wow that fabric is really ugly & asked the other lady to cut it. Being the freak I am I took that as a compliment from her.

~some pink flame gloves hand painted w/o a stencil

~2 bloody pots

~a little bag that holds soap. You hang it over your outside spigot & you can wash/scrub your hands in one step. It was done in a sc, ch1 stitch very easy. The soap is a M&P made with strawberry tea

~a spiderweb birdhouse. This was easy it was made with scrapbook paper & just decoupaged on. The biggest problem was cutting & folding it without too many rips.

~A good luck garden pick painted like dice & a horseshoe

~ the little garden markers are made from cocktail picks with a Latin word on 1 side & the meaning on the other

~ the Ziploc baggie is a baby spider plant

New pattern

I listed a new vintage knit pattern on etsy today if anyone is interested.

Click for a bigger image.

I'm also planning on listing this pattern once the batteries for my camera are charged.

I'm only charging $3.50 with free shipping since it will be emailed in a .pdf format. Which I think is pretty reasonable.

My dad has been in the hospital for the last 2 days. He was really swollen & tired, nothing really bad but it just makes me realize how old he is really getting. I remember when I was little & I thought he was the smartest man in the world (he is pretty damn smart) and he could kick the crap out of anyone. Now I see him getting older not being able to see & his body just giving up on him...it sucks so much to see your parents get old. My dad has diabetes & hepatitis so his kidneys are giving out on him, but does he want a transplant for my brother or I......nope. He says why would I do that to prolong my life a couple years then what, you or your brother may have problems with your kidneys & you will only have 1 to depend on. He always jokes that is he knew he was going to live this long he would have taken better care of his body.

I've been really down lately thinking about where my life is going. I feel like I'm sitting still not doing much & everything is passing me by. I really wish I had a job I enjoyed, something where I could stretch my creativity.

Save Jericho

I LOVE this show with a passion. Granted its a little " hollywood" about how things would be but this is totally possible. Probably a little more grim than how they show it. I just wish they would show some chicks in a knitting/crochet circle. You know that would totally happen if there was an apocalypse all us crafty chicks would ban together to keep everyone warm during the winter. Silly CBS.

Anyways vote to make Jerich a top show
http://richlabonte.net/tvvote/nominations.html

I Am Legend Trailer

For anyone who is interested in the new Will Smith movie coming out in Dec about the book by the same name I found a trailer of it online. I am so excited, there hasn't been a decient vampire movie in years.

http://www.movieweb.com/video/V07F8bhptvCDFO

Scrubbie pattern

Bobble scrubbie pattern:
side 1 bobble= yo insert hook pull up a loop yo pull thru 2 loops on hook,yo pull up a loop yo pull thru 2 loops on hook, yo & pull up a loop yo pull thru all 5 loops on hook
Row1: ch4, join with sl st
Row2: ch2, 15 hdc in ring, join with sl to beginning ch2
Row3: ch2, bobble in same stitch, *2 hdc in next stitch, hdc & bobble in next stitch* repeat around join
Row4: 2 hdc in first stitch, *1hdc in next st, 1 hdc & bobble in next stitch, 1hdc in next stitch, 2 hdc in next stitch* repeat and join

Side 2
Row1: ch4, join with sl st
Row2: ch2 hdc in same stitch, 2 hdc in each stitch around, join
Row3: ch2 hdc in same stitch, *1 hdc in next stitch, 2 hdc in next stitch* repeat
Row4: ch2 hdc in next stitch, *1 hdc in next 2 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch* repeat, join
Row 5: sc in each stitch around

Handle
ch as many stitches as you need to go across your hand (do 2 extra to tuck in when you sew everything together)sc across each stitch turn & sc again till you have the width you want

tuck in your handle between side 1 & 2 & either slip stitch around or sew to join I also used the tails from my beginning chan & tied them together so the scrubbie would stay flat.

If you have any problems let me know I tend to take notes in my own geeky shorthand only I know.

Movie reviews 06/14

Ok I have a couple to update. If you don't like spoilers don't read any further.

Hostel 2- pretty much the same as the last one except with girls. I honestly didn't like the last one because the acting & storey were pretty bad. Gore doesn't bother me but atleast have a good story to go with it. The second one had better acting & if you are a man hating woman you will probably love the scene when she cuts of the dudes you know what & feeds it to the dogs

Pirates of the Carribean: I wasn't really impressed with it. Just a big overpriced movie with not much to the story. Everyone looked good in it though.

I did see the preview for I am legend which I am really excited about I LOVE vampires & it has will smith in it. I'm trying to get my hands on the original book before it comes out in Dec. although I never enjoy a movie when I read the book first.

patterns2

Just a litle FYI these may not be in order blogger wouldn't let me post the images one right after the next. I left off the first section because it was mostly granny square patterns so there may be part of the end of one.

Dishcloth patterns

Here are the patterns for th different discloths & hotpads. There is a number next to each item in the picture that tells you which pattern it is in the written text. Click on the image to make it larger.

Dishcloth swap

I received a great package from my swap partner. I love when packages come when I'm having a shitty day. Last night...well actually 4am this morning Dylan started having seizures. He had one small one them a huge one that wouldn't stop so we had to take him to the ER vet. The poor little guy was so out of it. He had 2 doses of Valium & his pheno the little booger was still going strong when we got to the vet at 8am. We left him there for observation & to get some sleep until 4 & when we picked him up it was like nothing had happened. Dogs are such amazing creatures.

Anyways back to the crafts, here is what I sent my partner:

2 dishcloths

a pan handle cover

a towel holder ring (a gatorade cap ring was used)

a scrubbie

and a hot pad

I will post pics of what I received later & the pattern for the dishcloth & scrubbie.

And what I received from my partner:

Interview

I had my interview today for the recycling plant. I think it went really well...a panel interview *bleck* But I wasn't as nervous as I usually am, maybe because I knew I was qualified for it. The plant was really nice & the guys who interviewed me were really cool. It felt more like a conversation than an interview which they say is how it should go so cross your fingers for me.



In crafty news I have been making dishcloths lately to practice different stitches & to really do something mindless to relieve stress.

All of the yarns used are recycled from sweaters. The brown was a men's old navy sweater that magically appeared in my house so you know I had to take it apart. The yarn is so thin it is basically the size of 2 strands of heavy nylon thread held together. I used a crochet hook size normally used for thread doilies. I actually really like it. I may make something larger like a lacy scarf if I feel up to it, it would take FOREVER. I've made a lot more dishcloths but, I either already gave them away, they are in use or I'm sending them for my swap.

WIPs

Ok so this craft blog hasn't been really crafty lately....sorry. I've had a lot of stress lately which means I have been crocheting like a mad woman just not taking pics.

I have a love hate relationship with this shawl. I can't decide if I love it or hate it. It's one of those items I pick up for a day or two then put it away because I don't like it. It's not because its ugly or its giving me problems, actually it was way easier than I expected. I just can't think of any time I would actually wear it. Chuckles was like ummmm doesn't it kinda defeat the purpose of wearing a shawl if it's all holey *grumbles* true.

I used a K hook & a worsted acrylic that is some discontinued brand I've never seen before I got on sale for $1

I got the pattern from:

http://www.garnstudio.com/lang/en/visoppskrift.php?d_nr=99&d_id=13&lang=en

I've also been making a bunch of cotton dishcloths lately to practice different stitches & for the dishcloth swap I entered. I'll load pics after the swap is over.

I had some really dark cotton just sitting around calling my name & I couldn't think of anything to make with it. I only had 2 balls so it had to be something small. Then I remembered the green paisley dress I have that I never wear because its sleeveless & I don't have a cute summer shrug for it soooooooo......

For size reference the original yarn was a 6ply worsted weight. I split it in 1/2 and I'm using a K hook. The stitch is called snapdragon. Basically a V stitch & 5dc then the opposite the next row. I would have had more done but I only worked 6hrs tonight & we were busy most of the time.

In other news if you are interested I have an interview Tues for a position I really want cross your fingers for me.

Movie reviews

I was thinking since chuckles & I go see a new movie about every week that I would start posting my reviews for different movies. Now be aware I love weird movies like John Waters & cheesie movie so think about that when you read my reviews. so what I have seen lately:

Spiderman- I was actually kind of bored during it. Granted some lady brought in 3 small children behind me that wouldn't sit still & would cry on & off thru the movie. But I honestly thought it was very similar to the last movie. perter parker loves mary Jane then he leaves her then they get back together again in a happily ever after after he rescues her. Sounds familiar doesn't it. The big bad villain is an ok guy at the beginning then he goes all evil then he becomes a semi-softie at the end & decides not to fight against spidey. sounds like doc ock doesn't it. Well that's exactly how the sandmand & the goblin Jr are in this one. Same thing over again. I say wait for it on tape. No real impressive shots & it kinda made me motion sick the way they did the CGI & shakey camera thing.

The Condemned- Ok so this is a WWE steve austin movie which I'm not big on that we went to because nothing else was playing & it was $5 day. But honestly it was pretty good. You know whats going to happen from the beginning hello it was produced by WWE & steve austin is in it obviously he will be the hero. If you are against violence especially against women this isn't the movie for you. But if you are like me & love gore then you will love this. There is a rape scene but they don't show anything just the aftereffect & you can pretty much guess what happened. This is a great guy movie if you are in the mood for violence & a silly plot one of those no-brainer movies. I say wait for the dollar theatre or DVD. No huge effects & not really a life changing plot but a good basic action movie.

Disterbia- So I thought this was going to be one of those cheesie teen movies that I like (I warned you I like cheese) but I was actually pleasantly surprised with this one. Good acting VERY funny in a dry way. Good thriller like ohhhh girl don't go down in that basement type & it has a happy ending. I love happy endings as long as they aren't forced & so unbelievable. I def recommend seeing this one in the theatre worth the money.

300- Love it! I swear this movie is a gay mans dream. The guys in it were seriously chiseled. The story was a little weak at the beginning but it made up for it in cool effects, great cinematography & good acting. I def recommend seeing this in a theatre great effects. I think it would be way better in a theatre than on DVD.

Blades of Glory- Its Will Ferral if you like him then you'll like this, nuff said. Rent it unless you are a huge fan.

Ghost Rider- I wasn't impressed with it. It had some nice bikes in it though. the story was boring, the effects were good. This would be a good movie for kids & tweens. Wait for the DVD

Grindhouse- LOVE IT! the second movie with kurt russell was actually better than the zombie one & I'm a big zombie fan. You will love the first one if you are into mega cheese like me. Excessive violence, gross out puss & corney comedy. If you are a woman you will love the second film especially the end. Go see it in the theatre. Its long but you won't even want to leave during the fake movie previews between each movie.

Black snake moan- Not impressed at all. If you are a Christina rici fan you will love it because she looks really good. The story was stupid & pointless. A total waste of Sam jacksons talent. I wouldnt even rent it.

the Reaping-It wasn't scarey at all but not bad. It had a great twist ending. I'm big on religious movies that are kinda cynical & make you think different things about religion. If you were expecting a scarey movie it isn't but I liked it. You realize what is going on about 20mins from the end but its still good. Rent or dollar theatre

Well I got a call about that great job I applied for...yay & I just finished the assessment test. Wow do I ever suck. I got a 50% on the section for business writing, granted the average is a 60% but I always thought I was a stickler for punctuation. I guess I've been out of school for too long. Maybe I can make up for it in the sections I did well in for math, typing & data entry. I think I did well for the data entry even though I didn't use a 10key pad.

In better news I sold another item on etsy...YAY. I really need to get on the ball & list some of the items I made recently, maybe after I get home tonight. I'm working until midnight now on my new schedule which sucks but at least I get 2 more hours of pay.

I have such cabin fever I hope some festivals are coming up. I have a strong urge to go swimming but I really don't like public pools.

I planted some veggies yesterday. I hope they do as well as last years. At least I planted some things that we will eat this year. And I put up a fence to keep the weenie from jumping around in the garden, maybe it will keep the bunnies out too. It looks really white trash with the 2 different color fences but its doing the job & that's all that matters.

summer cold

So Chuckles & I have been horribly ill for the last 2 weeks. I was first with a sore throat for 4days straight, it felt like pure fire. Guess I should have taken that as a sign as to how long I would be sick. Can I just tell you how much it sucks to have to talk on the phone for 5hrs straight with throat problems. But I guess it could be worse it could have been a 10hr day.

I swear it my luck I go all winter w/o being sick but as soon as it gets warm out I get a cold. I need to plant some veggies in the garden....don't have the energy. I need to make & list some new items on etsy.....don't feel like it. I need to clean & do laundry....don't feel like it. All I want to do is either sleep all day or be a couch potato.....blah

I finished a couple hats within the last 2 weeks one to sell just like the blue one in my shop & a cute recycled pink cotton that looks like a knit hat inspired by mary jane in spiderman (i think) I only looked at it once but thought it would be cute on my big melon. I need to get around to taking pics. I received the coolest swap package from my crochet swap partner. I just wish Canada post didn't take so long, I know I'm missing out on really great partners by not shipping outside the us but it really sucks to have to wait so long when you know something has been sent.

My new scheduled started today & the big dork I am forgot so I got ready for work.....luckily I don't go in till 6 & 1/2 way there I was like wait a minute I don't think I work today. I went in anyways to see if Kandy was there to pay me for the hat I'm selling her & to double check I didn't have to work....of course she was off & I didn't have to be there soooooo I called up chuckles & we went shopping for mothers day prezzies.

After a couple hours shopping we came home & I vegged.....that's how tired this cold has made me walking around for maybe 2hrs at the most wears me out. I tried to finish this blue recycled cotton hat (just like the pink with a K hook) and I got maybe 3 rounds done & I was done for. Granted I am in no way the most active person but this is ridiculous. So we decided to watch pulse....not to bad, not scary at all but a great movie to sit & comment about the stupid girl going into the dark basement type.

We are suppose to go see Spiderman tomorrow for $5day I hope its good. I can't wait until 28 weeks is out I FREAKIN LOVE the first one & it better not be a disappointment. I am so ready for all the summer festivals to start especially the street fair. I'm ready to get all sun burnt & achy from walking. I love how it makes you feel all exhausted but relaxed, getting all kinds of creative ideas from the things you see & feeling in tune with nature being outside all day.

I recently applied for a job with a local city organization & I hope I get it *crossing my fingers* I would be absolutely perfect for the position & the hours are perfect, the location is perfect, & the pay isn't too bad...but I probably won't get it. I'm not sure why I'm not getting any offers the only thing I can think of is my education. My resume is strong I get replies all the time (things I'm not interested in of course) my work history is strong. I just wish I could get in somewhere where I can show what I can do I am sooooo tired of my current job. I'm so burnt out & dread every day I go in. I'm amazed that I have been there almost 8yrs when the burnout rate is 18months. Guess I can handles some major BS.

So if there are any wealthy bosses out there that need a creative person on their staff & can pay me enough to live I will work for you until I keel over with the utmost gratitude...........

So last night I had this idea to make a morbid checkbook cover. I have some micro-suede left over from making a leatherface costume & have been trying to think of something gory to make. I'm really anal about listing something or giving a gift that isn't "perfect" in my eyes. So I made the checkbook cover out of the material & splattered red paint over it to look like blood. I didn't really try to match up the sides so it would look a little more like a hand sewn item made out of human flesh. Now I'm a little iffy about listing it on etsy because it isn't my normal good work. So far it has had a lot of views, either people like it & think its too much or the title caught their eye & they change their mind after seeing it. Maybe I can make some other morbid style items if this doesn't work.


On other news I went to the thrift store & got a shell & a cover sweater in 2 shades of pink made out of 100% cotton for $1.25!!!!! Along with an acrylic that looks like a handspun thick & thin. Now all I have to do is decide what I want to make. I'm really into making cloches lately but I need to focus on thing I can sell on etsy until there is another income in the family. I think I'm still excited about ripping the sweaters apart & using my nifty little yarn ball winder more than making anything. Maybe I can find a cute little QUICK shawl pattern to go with my new summer dresses.

I listed a couple new hats I whipped out tonight at work to keep up my stock on etsy. Come check them out.

I think I will try experimenting with wallet & checkbook patterns tomorrow to see if I can come up with something interesting.

I made another sale on etsy WOO HOO!!! I am honestly surprised that people want the things I make this much, but pleasantly surprised :)

If only I could quit my job in corporate hell & make things full time, I would be one happy little chic-a-dee.

I crocheted up a couple more hats & hope to list them within the next couple days. I love making stuff but I swear I fall in love with everything & want to keep it for myself.

I made my first sale on etsy WOOO HOOOO! I honestly didn't think I would sell something that fast. The cute little monkey markers shown in my last post were my first sale. The boi said they were too cute to last long so I guess I have found a good item to sell.


I also FINALLY bought a yarn ball winder. I thought it was a little pricey so I waited till joanns had a 40% off sale. It was still over $20. Let me tell you though it was totally worth every penny especially if you recycle a lot of sweaters like I do. I think I have rewound every skein of yarn in my house in the last 2 days.

I recently listed some items on etsy. I have some GREAT vintage knitting patterns, including one of a star trek sweater which being the uber geek I am totally loves. If I was a big knitter I would keep it for myself.

I also listed some cute little boutique style gift tags. Like these -->



And some cute little stitch markers. Including monkeys....yes you heard me right monkey markers they are too freakin cute. I also listed some breast cancer awareness ribbon markers that I think every woman should have. Even if you can't afford to donate a bunch of money to a charity you can show your support by wearing a pink ribbon. How many times are you noticed in public knitting or crocheting. Maybe you can make one of those people take a moment when they see your breast cancer awareness ribbon. If they take a moment to think then maybe they will take a moment to donate to cancer research.



So take a look at my store. Browse around see I'm sure you will find something to your liking.

Well I FINALLY listed some items on etsy. Takes a look & let me know what you think. I will continue to add items so check back often.


www.MissMotleys.etsy.com

Water bottle holder that clips to your belt, stroller etc

I Hook
worsted weight yarn
This fits a 20oz bottle of water

Body
Round 1: Ch 6, join with sl in 1st ch
Round 2: Ch 2(counts as 1st dc), Dc into ring 13 times, join with sl to 1st Dc
Round 3: Ch 2, Dc in same stitch as ch2, *2Dc in next stitch* repeat to end, 1dc in last stitch, join with sl in 1st dc (27 stitches)
Round 4: Ch 2(counts as 1dc), 1dc in each space around, join with sl to 1st dc
Round 5: Ch 3, *Dc in next stitch, ch1, skip next dc, dc in next stitch, ch1* repeat from * to * join with sl to 1st ch3
Round 6-14: Ch 3(counts as dc & ch1) *dc in next ch1 space, ch1, dc in next ch1 space, ch1* repeat from * to *
At end of round 14 do not bind off

Handle
Row 1: Ch 1, turn, sc evenly 7times, Ch 1, turn
Row 2-4: skip 1st sc space, sc in each space to end, ch 1, turn (ending with 4 sc spaces)
Row 5-12: sc in each space across, ch 1, turn
Row 13: 1sc in first 2 spaces, ch 5, 1sc in next 2 spaces, ch 1, turn
Row 14: 1sc in 1st space, skip next sc space, sl in first chain stitch & in next 4, skip 1sc space, sc in next space bind off

Sew button to back of bag for button hole

to make this an over the shoulder bag repeat rows 1&2 untile desired length & join to opposite side of bag with sc stitches

The great goodies I received from my swap partner for the Bathroom theme swap

A carved picture for my wall with the symbol for relax.

2 embroidered towels if you cant tell they have 3 pockets and it says relax with little flowers. The buttons are vintage japanese.

I also got 4 candle holders w/candles with the same relax symbol.

Some milk lotion & body wash & a wash mit.

This is what I sent to my partner.

My partner's bathroom style was antique maps & jungle themes. So I sent her 3 pictures of vintage maps that I made to look antiqued by brushing them with watered down brown paint.

2 crocheted washcloths(started before I knew her theme)

An embroidered bath mat with birdies on one side & 2 non-skid feet on the back.

2 coffee candles with leather tie that I have had forever & was waiting for something good to use them on.

And 3 washcloths. 1 plain & 2 embroidered. One says guest & the other has a corner design.

Can you tell I have been using every excuse to use my new embroidery machine I got for x-mas that I can.......

WIPs

My scrap yarn blanket. It's similar to a granny square. Done in all dc around the box with 3 dc ch2 3dc in the corners. I have no restrictions on yarn as far as weight. If I use something in smaller weight in 1 row I use a bulkier weight in the next to even it out its working pretty well.. I'm also currently collecting small amounts of scraps on all my x-mas projects and I'm joining them to make hippy style hats for myself.

This isn't really a work in progress but its more of I plan to make one of these again after x-mas. I really loves how my plastic bag purse came out & I have started collecting the extra thick bags for another. Grocery bags worked fine but I really like how smooth the finished product was with the thicker bags.

Halloween Hats

some hats I made & sold over halloween with my knify knitter. The pumpkin has a crocheted stem, leaf & vine. The grapes hat has crocheted balls, leaf & vine. On the candy corn had I removed it from the loom using the square toe method you use when making socks.

Craft Swaps

Oh how I missed craft swaps.....I think I stopped for too long & now I'm over compensating for lost time.
Here are some things I made lately.
Dollar store swap:
I made a scrapbooking tote & wallet out of 4 dishtowels
and some knitted slippers using this loom pattern.
http://decoraccentsinc.com/slipper_instructions.html
Which you can use the small blue knifty knitter to make.

For my tiny little dog swap I made a cute little treat jar with my swap partner's dogs name on it. The doggie bones on top were sealed with Modge Podge which actually makes a pretty good lacquer after a couple coats. Then I made a retractable leash saddle bag. I think I may make another one of these for next summer. It came out a little wonky because I was working without a pattern & had only seen one in a catalogue once but it works. Next time I think I will just make 1 big elastic loop then attach the pockets. Anyways what this is for is to carry treats, poop bags, your keys, or even to have a little water bowl for the dog. I also made some little puppy size squeekers out of felt. And the doggie shirt was made from 1 fleece scarf. I cant believe I got that much fabric from 1 scarf I may have to make another one for chiquita.



I'm currently in a Hat/Glove swap. I hope my partner likes the stuff I made I thought it was a pretty cool idea, I'm just worried if the color stitch combo may be too much. I swear I'm becoming more conservative as I get older its so weird.
I'm also in a World of Warcraft swap for chuckles. Can I just say GRRRRRRRRRR at trying to come up with ideas for something you have no clue about. But honestly I think the stuff I have made is pretty creative since I have no clue about anything on that stupid game.

Ok so I secretly love making baby items. But what I really love is making baby items that look like minature adult clothing or making things for babies that an adult could never wear because they are totally off the wall. Like a 35yr old man could never wear an outfit that looks like a big teddy bear (unless its halloween) but I bet he could when he was 3mos old.

So 2 of my friends are planning a little one & I have started making items when I don't have a current project. Can I just say how hard it is to think of androgenous baby items that aren't the typical blah yellow & green. What I plan is to make an item here & there as the months go on and then present them with a huge bag of hats, booties, blankies etc in various sizes at the shower. Hopefully they will be preggers soon so I can get down to girly or boy things. Here are a few hats I have made so far.

The big leaf on the pumpkin hat was from this pattern http://members.aol.com/JSchlossma/cph.html I cant find the hat pattern but it was easy to make the ridges just do a fpdc in even amounts around the hat to make the ridges.