Crochet Cleaning Pad

Somewhere between resting after a days work, watching tv and looking over at the dirty dishes in the sink, I decided to make a dish sponge to try.

Its not limp like the dish rags I have made even though they are still wonderful too, this cleaning pad is just the right size to fit in my hand and since its double layered,  its sturdy and gets the job done. One side is bumpy for scrubbing and the other is smooth for wiping.

 

I used 100% cotton yarn. Cotton yarn is what I use for household items because its absorbent and washes up really well in the wash. And frankly, I like the natural, soft and clean feel of cotton.

You can make these any size you want but here is how I made mine.

I used an H hook and cotton yarn.
Special stitch is the popcorn stitch also known as the bobble stitch. Click here to learn how to make this special stitch.

Chain 15
Row 1: Starting in the next chain from hook, sc across (14), ch 1 turn.
Row 2: sc across (14)
Row 3: sc, sc, bobble stitch, sc ,sc, bobble (repeat to end), ch 1 turn
Row 4: sc across (this is the back side of a cloth or inside of the pad), ch1 turn.
Row 5-10: repeat row 3 and 4
Row 11: sc across, ch1 turn
Row 12-24:  repeat row 11
To finish off: fold in half and sc together all the way around,(including the fold side). making 2 sc in the corners.
sl stitch to beginning and tie off ends.

I have not tested the pattern since I typed it out, so let me know if it does not work for you. If it does work for you, id love to see your finished project.

This cleaning pad can be used on many different things around the house. The possibilities are useful anywhere.


Ive shared this at:
dare-to-share at pamspartyandpracticaltips
anything-goes-linky at bacontimewiththehungryhypo
submarine-sunday at usscrafty
monday-handmade-linkup-party at judyscardmakingandpapercrafts
inspire-me-monday at create-with-joy
amaze-me-monday at dwellings-theheartofyourhome
worthwhile-wednesdays at thecraftiestallie

Skinny Eclair

Its been a while since I made something sweet but while scrolling thought facebook and Pinterest, I discovered an easy recipe to an Eclair cake.

Its been so hot outside here in North Carolina that I dread cranking up the oven for anything. This recipe had me at "no bake". That's right. Its a no bake recipe. Its as easy as making instant pudding.

The only problem is that Im actually on a diet. Im trying to eat lighter and healthier. So far I have been doing pretty good at that so that's why I decided to make this Éclair skinny, meaning light or low fat.

This can still be a diet bomber but I made it less fattening by using fat and sugar free pudding and 2% milk. I mean, that's something, right? Im sure its not as good as the original recipe found here. But its pretty darn good and hit the sweet spot just right.

 Skinny No bake Eclair

2 small packages- Sugar and fat free Vanilla Instant Pudding mix, dry

3½ cups- 2% milk

12 oz.- Sugar Free cool whip

2 (14.4) oz box- graham crackers 

-CHOCOLATE TOPPING -

3 Tbsp.- butter

3 Tbsp.- 2% milk

3 Tbsp.- cocoa

1 cup -powdered sugar

1. Mix milk and vanilla pudding packets until it starts thickening (about 2 min).
2. mix in Cool Whip.
3. In a 9x13 pan, Layer graham crackers to cover entire bottom of pan.
4. Pour some of the pudding/cool whip mixture on top and level.
5. Put another layer of graham crackers to cover entire surface.
6. Repeat layers- I did 3 but two makes up great too.
7. Put the final layer of graham crackers on top with bumpy side down. This will help the top look more smooth when you go to put the frosting on top.
8. FROSTING: Microwave butter and milk just enough until melted. Do not boil it.
9. Add cocoa and powdered sugar and blend together. 
10. Pour over top of graham crackers and smooth out nicely.
11. Refrigerate overnight

The hardest part of the whole recipe is #11. I skipped that part.

I had to dig into it within two hours of making it. It was not set yet and the crackers were still not as soft as they are suppose to be. So make sure you let refrigerate at least 8 hours.

You can do it!!


Ive shared this at:
snickerdoodle-sunday at 2crochethooks
mix-it-up-monday at flourmewithlove
amaze-me-monday at dwellings-theheartofyourhome
inspire-me-monday at create-with-joy
full-plate-thursday at mizhelenscountrycottage
thursday-favorite-things-blog-hop at katherinescorner

Crochet Stork Pouch

Its been over a week since my last post. I have just been busy. Since my last post, I took another trip to the beach. It was so nice. I can just never get enough of that place. Then there were some Fathers Day plans that kept me busy and I also had some special crochet orders to fill.

I have a customer that keeps my creativity going with her special request. I have made things I never thought about making and frankly, some things she asks me to make, I freak out a little inside because I'm not sure I can do it. Somehow, I usually pull it off. There are a few things I have not been able to do for her because of a special stitch I have never learned. Most patterns or videos I find are right handed and I'm left handed so therefore, I have to work backwards and in opposite directions and there are just some stitches or items I can not do backwards.
For example: Slippers I make have to be one way, not a left or a right. I know, its crazy but its me.

Ok, enough about that.

One thing I was asked to make was a cocoon for a baby photo prop. Also known as a stork pouch. They are so darn cute. You can search "Crochet stork pouch" and so many photo shots of how they are used will pop up. They are darling.

It looked easy enough so I attempted it.
The first one I did was really bad. It looked like a rag. It was lopsided, tiny and crocheted too tight. But, that was just my trial one and it gave me an easier idea for the right thing.

My second attempt was a win.

Im pleased with the way the it turned out and hope she sends me photo of it with a tiny newborn balled up inside.

Most photographers do not actually hang these with the baby inside them unless it hammocks the baby really well without tipping it out. They will lay the baby down and photo shop to make it look like its hanging or hang the baby while holding a grip to the baby and then photo shop.

Im thinking about making a couple more of these to sell in my Etsy shop soon. I need to find more of this soft stretchy yarn before I do so.


Ive shared this at:
made-by-me-131-linky-party at jaqsstudio
something-fabulous-wednesday at roubinek
worthwhile-wednesdays at thecraftiestallie
cityofcreativedreams
snickerdoodle-sunday-with-barb-from-alifeinbalance at 2crochethooks
amaze-me-monday at dwellings-theheartofyourhome
monday-handmade-linkup-party at judyscardmakingandpapercrafts  
inspire-me-monday at create-with-joy
what-are-you-doing-wednesday at contentemeant (featured)
link-party-51 at oombawkadesigncrochet.

Vintage Bike Recycle

I have always liked to ride a bike. Its something you learn and never forget. I didn't have a bike since I was about twelve until a few years ago. We lived in a little house on side of a main road where there was no place to ride a bike. I managed to teach my girl how to ride one by using the driveway and back yard. It didn't take her long to learn.

One day (about 15 years ago) a stranger came into our yard holding a rusty, shabby, radio flyer vintage bike frame. The bike was in no condition to be ridden. He was looking to make some money. My husband and I felt sorry for the fella and gave him five dollars for the bike and he went on his way.

It just so happened that we were talking about getting some coaster bikes to use at the beach so it was not a whole loss of five dollars. Im thinking these bikes are from the 60's.

My husband said he would fix this one up. He worked hard sanding it down and painting it. He found a bike shop in the next town over and ordered some necessary parts needed to fix this little gem up. He replaced the handle bars, chain, seat, rims and tires. Before long, it was ready to go....

Meanwhile before he even got this one all the way fixed up, the same stranger walked up wanting more money and yes, he was holding another radio flyer vintage bike frame. By now, we seen what was going on here and didn't buy any more from him, but I was excited to see now we have two bikes. Bike (#1) for my daughter and bike (#2) for my husband.

Vintage bike #1 (before)

Vintage Bike #1 (after)

vintage bike #2 (after)

I don't have a before picture of this one but did manage to get a shot of the finished results. 

If you are wondering where is my bike? I actually have a bike given to me by my father-in-law. He had it sitting in his yard sale and I snatched it up. Its a road master brand vintage bike. I have not done anything to mine because its in fairly good shape. However, I did have to get some whitewall tires for it.

Its now showing some rust (Probably from riding it on the beach). I plan to give it a good paint job soon. I also want to add a wire basket to it and a book rack on the back. I am debating on what color I want to paint it. I'm thinking I may keep it blue but not sure.

Wait!....My husband just told me that he found me a basket and its on its way! He is just the best.
I cant wait to show you my finished results so follow me and stay tuned.

Maybe my readers can help on a color. I'd love to hear any ideas you can give me.


Ive shared this at:
dare-to-share at pamspartyandpracticaltips
nifty-thrifty-sunday at niftythriftythings
snickerdoodle-sunday at 2crochethooks

before-and-after-wednesday at thededicatedhouse

Stuffed Poblanos

I have pretty much reserved Sunday afternoons as my "experiment cooking day". We usually pig out on the weekends and want to eat lighter on Sundays so I will experiment on a new dish and that way, if no one likes it, then they can just go grab a sandwich or something.

I made these stuffed Poblano peppers that seemed to be a winner, even by my daughter, that in no way will eat pinto beans. She ended up eating the whole thing and liked it. I guess with everything mixed in the beans, it took away from the texture. That's what she hates about beans, the texture not necessarily the taste.

This tasty recipe can be used as the main portion or on the side. I suggest main portion of the meal since its so filling and tasty. If you like Mexican food, you will like this. Poblano peppers are not usually hot, but depending on where they are grown, they can be hotter than others. If they are grown in a hot and dry climate, they will be more intense. So don't be surprised if they are a little spicy. The one I ate was almost too hot for me to enjoy, while my daughters and husbands had no hotness at all. So, just take that into consideration before serving to children.

Stuffed Poblano Peppers

4 Peppers

1 can re-fried beans

1/2 cup cooked instant rice

1/2 cup Salsa or picante sauce

Mexican cheese (shredded)

Chopped Cilantro (amount depends on preference)

Cut the peppers in half (from top to bottom), clean out the seeds and rinse.

Place in a microwave dish and cover with a lid or wax paper.

Microwave for 3 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a bowl, stir together beans, rice, cilantro and salsa until well mixed.

Spoon mixture into the pepper halves.

Cover and microwave another 2 minutes.

Sprinkle each half with cheese and microwave uncovered for another 2 minutes.

Sprinkle more cilantro on top before serving if desired.

Enjoy.

Approx. 150 calories, 3g fat, 23 carbs. in each half.

I served mine with a side of my favorite cilantro lime rice. Well, because I made to much rice to start with and had to do something with it. I'm used to cooking two cups of rice at a time. You can find my cilantro rice recipe here.

Warning- After handling peppers, make sure you wash your hands good before rubbing your eyes. I learned this the hard way.


Ive shared this at:
something-fabulous-wednesday at roubinek.  
made-by-me-129-linky-party-and-features at jaqsstudio 
full-plate-thursday at mizhelenscountrycottage
thursday-favorite-things-blog-hop at katherinescorner
bacontimewiththehungryhypo *Featured*
.pamspartyandpracticaltips

Baby Shower Show Off

I'm excited to say I get to be an Aunt again to a baby boy. I can not wait for him to get here in July. I think the older I get, the more excited I get when a baby comes into the family.

The last baby born in the family was about 3 years ago, and since then, Ive been enjoying crochet more, so this poor child is gonna be covered in crochet....Literally because as soon as I heard the news, I began to crochet him a blanket. Its a rather small blanket, perfect for a cradle, lap or stroller.

She is doing his nursery in "Elephant on Parade" so I tried to match the colors accordingly. I then ordered a darling little wooden teether to match.

I ordered if from littlethingsboutique on Etsy. You should definitely check out some of her creations. They are so darn cute!

I didn't stop there. Since most of the family are Tarheel fans, I decided to make him a hat and booties for game days.

And since his father takes interest in reptiles, I made this adorable little set for fun.

Maybe it will be good for a daddy and son day out.


Last but not least, I made him this elegant looking little newsboy hat set.

 

 

The shower went well and everything she got was so cute. However, the cake is always my favorite part of a shower. She did cake pops instead. They were so sweet! My favorite was the grape salad and pecan pie bites. Here is the recipe to the same grape salad I made over a year ago.

Everything was done up so nicely by a few terrific host.

Now Ill rest my wrist from crochet while I await for the little one to arrive. He is due around the 11th of July. I may have to be on stand by for something red, white, and blue in case he decides to come on or before Independence day!

We are all excited as we wait on his debut!


Ive shared this at:
judyscardmakingandpapercrafts monday-handmade-linkup
made-by-me-129-linky-party-and-features at jaqsstudio
what-are-you-doing-wednesday at contentemeant. 

I Blinged My FitBit Flex

I got a new fitbit flex for my birthday from my sweet husband and I love it.
Hold on, I will also show you how I added a little bling to it but first let me tell you a little about this thing.

I had been wanting one of these fitness trackers since they came out.

Its pretty  neat how it works. I set a goal for myself and it tracks my steps, how far I walk, how much I eat, and even tracks my sleep habits and lets me know how well I slept and how many times I was restless each  night.

Here is an example of how mine looked one day.

I use the silent alarm to wake up in the mornings. Yep, this neat little gadget will even vibrate to wake me up when I want it too.

I could go on because it does so much more, but just go to the fitbit.flex website and check out all the cool features for yourself.

You can get these in many different colors but I wanted the slate blue. It looks blue with some outfits and gray with others.

The problem is, they are not too fancy. While I like the sporty and futuristic look of it, I also wanted mine to be different. So I took a trip to to the craft store and bought some bling.

 

Now It feels prettier.

You will see, I didn't add anything to the top part of it, that's because that is where you tap it to put it in sleep mode or see your progress.

I have had my Fitbit for month now and I have lost 5 lbs. It has encouraged me to keep going to reach my goal.

Now I just need to find other friends with a fitbit so we can compete together for extra support and encouragement. I can just log onto the app and it will show all my friends progress in order from the highest to the lowest for the week. This can be fun.

Crochet Car Coasters

Have you ever placed a fast food drink in your car cup holder and find yourself fighting against the puddles of sweat it creates? Here is a little idea I came up with....Ok, well, I'm sure someone else beat me to it somewhere, but I still came up with it at the moment. Its these adorable coasters that will fit in the bottom of the holders. They are made of 100% cotton to absorb the moisture.

If you have a newer car, they have these awesome illuminating interior lights that you can change to different colors. When one of these crocheted coasters are placed in the holders, the lights make them glow. Looks like the coasters themselves light up. pretty neat huh?

Not only will they absorb moisture, but will also absorb any dust and dirt that decides to accumulate in there. No matter how clean we keep our cars, the cup holders (especially the ones with the rubbery liner) are dirt collectors. You can even take them out of the cup holder and use them to wipe pretty much anything you need to wipe such as the speedometer window, radio screen, your sunglasses, kids, and more.

When these little coaster get dirty, you can just throw them in the washing machine. Being 100 percent cotton, they may shrink just a little, so just reshape them and lay flat to dry.

I will share the pattern with you. They are quite simple to make if you know how to crochet a circle. If you can't crochet and would like some of these, you can find them in my Etsy shop ready to go. I have different colors available. My favorite is the blue.

Crochet Car Coasters

finished size is approx 3 inches, this is a standard car cup holder size.

G Hook

• Magic Circle- ch 1
• 10 sc in circle, sl to first sc to join circle, ch 1 (10).
• 2sc in each sc, sl to first sc, ch 1 (20).
• 2sc in same stitch, *1sc in next, 2sc in next* (*cont), sl in first sc, ch 2 (30).
• 1dc in each sc around, sl to first sc, (30) finish off.

I made my husband some gray ones for his truck. They were not made of cotton but he just wanted them for the dirt and dust protection. I found that for his truck, one of his cup holders is bigger than that of my daughters Ford Focus (where the pictures were taken), and his other cup holder was smaller. So if you make any of these, you can just adjust the stitches by one or two at the beginning and it should be fine.

Now go make you some or visit my shop and purchase some already made. Your welcome to use my pattern and idea as you wish but I'd love for you to link back to me if you do.

Ive shared this at:
inspire-me-monday- at create-with-joy 
amaze-me-monday at dwellings-theheartofyourhome  
mix-it-up-monday at flourmewithlove
made-by-me-126-linky-party-and-features at jaqsstudio
worthwhile-wednesdays at thecraftiestallie
thursday-favorite-things-blog-hop at katherinescorner  
anything-goes at bacontimewiththehungryhypo
city-of-links-party at cityofcreativedreams
dare-to-share at pamspartyandpracticaltips
nifty-thrifty-sunday at niftythriftythings
submarine-sunday at usscrafty

Twenty Years Together

Twenty Years- That's how long I have been married to a wonderful man, my best friend.

He takes care of me and our daughter. We know we are loved and cherished. He can also cook and has our dinner ready and waiting every day when I get home from work. He makes sure we have everything we need and want. Yes, I'm spoiled.

We took a three day trip to the beach to celebrate. It was nice to get to spend some alone time together away from all the bustle of our home town. We got away from all the family matters, work tasks, and politics. We spent numerous hours walking around and down the beach, dreaming of where we would like to see ourselves one day.

The weather was nice. We watched all week as they called for major storms across the state but they managed to pass us by. The first day was rather cloudy and in the 60's. It was a nice day for a walk. We ended up walking at least nine miles. On our walk we saw some sea urchins crawling around in the tide pools along the beach and found two sand dollars and other pretty shells.

We also saw a star fish in which I didn't get a picture because I didn't have my camera with me at that time. Don't you hate when that happens? Someone told us that star fish are deadly if they bite you. ?? Is this true?

The second day was even better, It was mostly sunny and we were able to catch some rays before the clouds rolled in again early in the afternoon. It was clearing up later as the sun was setting. The beauty of the sunset was awesome! God is my favorite artist.

 
The last full day was all sun and in the high 70's. Perfect. I did walk into the ocean but it was freezing cold. We soaked up the vitamin D that day. The pool was empty while everyone was on the sand.

The only complaint I have about the whole trip, is how the camper behind us set his little dogs pin right under our bedroom window, so at 6:00 every morning was "yap yap yap" by two little Chihuahuas. So we were up early and not sleeping in on this trip! Not to mention, we have to hear this every day from our neighbors dog next door.

 You can see in this picture of our camper, bottom right .....Dog pin. grrrr.

Now its back to the grind of my everyday life, counting the days until our next beach trip.

Song Sunday

The pathway is broken and the signs are unclear
And I don't know the reasons why you brought me here.
But just because you love me the way that You do
I'm gonna walk through the valley if you want me to.

Cause I'm not who I was when I took my first step
And I'm clinging to the promise You’re not through with me yet.
So if all of these trials that bring me closer to You
Then I will go through the fire if you want me to.

And it may not be the way I would've chosen
When you lead me through a world that's not my home
But you never said it would be easy
You only said I'd never go alone.

So when the whole world turns against me
And I'm all by myself
And I can't hear you answer my cries for help
I'll remember the suffering that your love put you through
And I will go through the valley if you want me to.

~Ginny Owens-"If You Want Me Too"

Crochet Beach Theme Cozies

I'm getting excited for summer. That's when I take several beach trips. We will be heading down to the coast in a few days. While I was crocheting last night, thinking of something new to add in my shop, I definitely had the beach on my mind. I crocheted these cute little mug cozies.

Each one was created using a different stitch. I'm feeling happy enough to tell you how I made them so if you crochet you can make one too and if you don't crochet, then head over to my shop and grab one of these cuties.

Sorry I'm not good at writing patterns so I'll just tell how I did it and hope you get it.
I used an H hook. But there is really no rule.

The little camper cozy:

• chain 9
• (starting 2nd chain from hook), sc/dc in stitch, skip, sc/dc in stitch, to end, sc in last stitch. ch2 turn.
• dc in same first stitch, skip, sc/dc in next, to end, last st, sc, ch 2 turn.(you will be doing the sc/dc in the skipped stitch of each row).
• Repeat rows and continue until you have approx. 8 inches long. ch1 turn.
• sc 2together, sc, sc, sc 2together. ch1 turn
• sc each row for 2 more inches (total length of cozy should be approx. 10 inches long).
• on the last sc row- sc, sc, ch2, sc, sc (this makes the button hole). do not finish off
• sc all around the cozy, finsh off, weave ends. sew on button.

Sail boat Cozy:

• Ch 10
• starting 2nd ch from hook, hdc in each ch, ch1 turn
• continue until you have approx. 8 inches long. ch1 turn.
• sc together two times(using up 4 sc), sc across, sc together two last times (using up last 4 sc) ch1 turn
• sc each row for 2 more inches (total length of cozy should be approx. 10 inches long).
• on the last sc row- sc, sc, ch2, sc, sc (this makes the button hole). do not finish off
• sc all around the cozy, finish off, weave ends. sew on button.

Cut out any shape from a piece of felt and stitch on the cozy. Be creative, make it your own. It does not have to be perfectly placed or stitched. This will be one of a kind. Any flaws will make it a unique master piece.

I have put these in my Esty shop and are ready for purchase.
What are some new things you have been putting together lately?


Ive shared this at:
cityofcreativedreams
dwellings-theheartofyourhome
create-with-joy
jaqsstudio
something-fabulous-wednesday at roubinek
worthwhile-wednesdays at thecraftiestallie
submarine-sunday at usscrafty
2crochethooks
monday-handmade-linkup at judyscardmakingandpapercrafts
inspire-me-monday at create-with-joy
mix-it-up-monday at flourmewithlove.  

Lil Camper Dreamin

People who have never camped will not get this...I have been going camping now for 18 years. We own a nice big travel trailer that we keep stored at our favorite vacation spot. I have grown to love camping. Its nice to have your own little place with our own bed and toilet.

Speaking of "own little space", I have gotten a fever for wanting just that. If you follow me on Pinterest, you will notice I have pinned a lot of tiny little  campers lately. My favorite is the Canned Ham type. They are tiny little 10 to 13 ft  vintage campers. They are just so darn cute. I don't know what hit me, but when I seen this, I wanted one for myself. Not saying I want to be alone, even though sometimes its nice, Im just saying I want a big/little project of my own.

Source

I keep thinking how fun it would be to find one that I can play with. Just a shell of one would be great so I could restore it to my liking. I could not do it in the neighborhood I live in now, but I would love to have one in the back yard just as a resort. A place to think, doll it up, and decorate it in a girly fashion (sorry Husband). But think about it, men have their "man caves", garages, sheds, and workshops. So, why cant a woman have her doll house? Come on girls, you know all of us wanted a doll house at one time or another. This would be a great get-away to read, craft, nap, study, quite time with my husband or just to have a fun get together with girl friends. hmmm wonder just how much gossip and secrets this little thing would hold?

 

shabbyrosedecor.com

I have this bike! Wheels are turning 

 stylemepretty.com

I remember drinking Shasta from a tin can.

Ebay

This is too cute. On the link, there are more inside pictures to see.

adventureideaz.com

I love the chalkboard on the inside of the door idea here.
 

 cornbreadandbeansquilting.wordpress.com

Inside a little Shasta. I love the arrangement in this one. More pictures on the link.  

 

If me and my husband ever decided to go somewhere for a quick over night trip, we could just hook it up to the back of the truck and go. It would be perfect on the side of a lake with a campfire and fishing poles. Hey im up for anything.  My daughter is 23 and still living at home. We need a quick resort sometimes.

 Source

This is perfect! Crafty mind overload!

The inside colors I would use would be aquas, greys, and a splash of yellow or red. 
I could go on and on. The possibilities are endless. Just Google or go to Pinterest and search "tin can campers" and see what happens. Just be careful and don't get suck in and get a fever like I did.

Maybe one day....Maybe one day I can have a ten foot, tin can condo of my own.



Ive shared this at:
tell-me-about-it-tuesday at sweetsillysara Featured!
amaze-me-monday at dwellings-theheartofyourhome

Crochet Bird Nest

I just made another attempt to help the birds. Its now springtime and they are all over the place trying to find a place to nest. I have only one tree in my back yard and its huge! It is full of birds of all types and its fun to watch them from my kitchen window. However, there are still some that refuse to nest in the trees and want to use parts of the house, plants, and even my car. I can leave for 3 days and come back to a dove nest on the hood of my car. They are so silly.


While looking on Pinterest the other day, I found a really cute bird nest. You can find the pattern HERE. I just knew I had to make one of these and see if it really works. I followed the instructions, but for some reason, it did not come out looking as beautifully egg formed as hers.

Its ok though. I kind of like the "gourd look" or "Pear shape" that mine took shape of.

I carefully placed it on a limb, hidden deep inside the tree and now I will wait to see if I get any renters on this unique home. I do not know how well it will hold up in the rain but hopefully the thickness of the shrub around it will protect it from damage. So far it has withheld strong winds.

I hope to get an update for you all in a couple months. Meanwhile, Ill stick to making hats.






Ive shared this at:
cityofcreativedreams
nifty-thrifty-sunday at niftythriftythings
inspire-me-monday at create-with-joy