Do you hear me laughing? Well, the funny thing about crochet is that you never loose it. I've taken a looooooooooong hiatus to work on other projects but it's something about the fall season that draws me backT I'm so gald that I bought that cedar chest last year in preparation for my crochet comeback. Now time to create patterns...... and yes this is the year that I will share them with you!
Friday, September 4, 2009
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Friday, June 20, 2008
Out of the Slump Handmade crochet bag
After taking a "crochet break" here is what I came up with.
It's small enough to take anywhere, yet large enough to carry all of the essentials. I can comfortably fit keys, sunglasses, wallet, cell phone, and lipstick into this crochet messenger bag. Fits comfortable over the should for added security landing right at the hip. Makes a great bag to take to the playground, amusement parks, or for a quick run anywhere!
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Under $10 from ETSY.........
I finally earned a little money through Project Wonderful Ads on my blog and decided to treat myself to an Etsy Handmade item. I can't wait to receive this in the mail! I have a pretty green tank top that will compliment it well.
I purchased this after starting a thread for items under $10. The handmade artist that made this is BreeLeeD . Stop by her shop, she has great stuff!
Tomorrow is the first day of summer. Have a blessed and safe summer break!
Check out all of the Etsy Sellers with items under $10.
http://www.etsy.com/forums_thread.php?thread_id=5671402
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Featured Etsy Seller " In Honor of Mother's Day".
From the Etsy forums............
LAVENDERDRAGONHERBS
Right now my mom is in the hospital, this is Tyler the other half of Lavender Dragon, anyway my mom has been quite ill off and on and she is a one woman machine, she tries her very best to take care of everything and keep the business running on her own as I cant always be there to help her.
She really does make everything by hand, and everything listed in our shop and profile is true. She is extremely caring about our customers and people in general, and Very Passionate about Herbs and Natural Healing. This business of ours has always been my moms lifetime dream, and I hope she gets well enough to see it thru.
She is used to being the type to give you the shirt off her back, and not ask any questions, until she got burned and scammed too many times, now she is leery but still there for anyone who needs help, only sometimes is she questioning, only to make sure the person is being truthful in their plight.
My mom has been thru hell and back, but has never once failed to love me for who I am, and what I believe in, nor did she once ever make me feel she didn't want me, because I was unplanned. She let me be my own person, and at times I was surprised she didn't kick my but royally for things I did. I couldn't have asked for a better mom, to go thru all she has, being a single mom to raise me, the jobs she did just to make sure I was raised to be the respectable person she wanted me to be.
That's my mom in a nutshell
Tyler
LAVENDERDRAGONHERBS
Right now my mom is in the hospital, this is Tyler the other half of Lavender Dragon, anyway my mom has been quite ill off and on and she is a one woman machine, she tries her very best to take care of everything and keep the business running on her own as I cant always be there to help her.
She really does make everything by hand, and everything listed in our shop and profile is true. She is extremely caring about our customers and people in general, and Very Passionate about Herbs and Natural Healing. This business of ours has always been my moms lifetime dream, and I hope she gets well enough to see it thru.
She is used to being the type to give you the shirt off her back, and not ask any questions, until she got burned and scammed too many times, now she is leery but still there for anyone who needs help, only sometimes is she questioning, only to make sure the person is being truthful in their plight.
My mom has been thru hell and back, but has never once failed to love me for who I am, and what I believe in, nor did she once ever make me feel she didn't want me, because I was unplanned. She let me be my own person, and at times I was surprised she didn't kick my but royally for things I did. I couldn't have asked for a better mom, to go thru all she has, being a single mom to raise me, the jobs she did just to make sure I was raised to be the respectable person she wanted me to be.
That's my mom in a nutshell
Tyler
In honor of Mother's Day........
The following article was actually written as a feature on Ozknits Blog. In honor of Mother's day this Sunday, I've decided to share this with you. My Mother truely inspired me as a child and still continues to insprire me today. Please leave a comment, sharing how your mother has inspired your craft.
I remember seeing my Mom's hands often. I would see her peeling potatoes to make potato salad. I would see her combing my sister's hair and neatly braiding each strand into ponytails. I saw her hands fold clothes, wash dishes, rake leaves, and mop the floor. My Mom was beyond a domestic engineer, she was a Domestic Goddess! So, it was no surprise when I saw her hands make a ball of yarn into the first Afghan that I ever saw. Around the age of twelve my mother sat my sister and I down, and showed us what a crochet hook looked like. She patiently showed us what she had recently learned as an adult, and didn't give up until when could remember the " granny square" by heart. At that time, I had no idea where crochet would take me. Ironically, it wasn't until I became a mother myself that I seriously picked up a crochet hook again. I started with the "granny square", just like my mother taught me. I had no idea that there was anything else you could make out of crochet. I had a difficult time reading patterns and often would rely on my Mother in Law to translate them. After a while I began shopping around for easy to read instructions. I taught myself every stitch I could learn, and soon after that I realized that I no longer needed to rely on patterns to create fiber art. With this new found excitement I started sketching. I began crocheting hats and other items by memorizing stitches and counting each one to obtain the desired look. I now know what stitches to use in order to obtain a certain shape or look, and instead of written patterns I keep example pieces. Someday I would love to publish a book that uses sketches to teach those that have a hard time with patterns the basics for obtaining a simple, yet wonderful piece to admire. Some of my future goals are to teach the art of crochet to the future young ladies of the world, publish and offer patterns to the public, and best of all become a Etsy Featured Seller
I remember seeing my Mom's hands often. I would see her peeling potatoes to make potato salad. I would see her combing my sister's hair and neatly braiding each strand into ponytails. I saw her hands fold clothes, wash dishes, rake leaves, and mop the floor. My Mom was beyond a domestic engineer, she was a Domestic Goddess! So, it was no surprise when I saw her hands make a ball of yarn into the first Afghan that I ever saw. Around the age of twelve my mother sat my sister and I down, and showed us what a crochet hook looked like. She patiently showed us what she had recently learned as an adult, and didn't give up until when could remember the " granny square" by heart. At that time, I had no idea where crochet would take me. Ironically, it wasn't until I became a mother myself that I seriously picked up a crochet hook again. I started with the "granny square", just like my mother taught me. I had no idea that there was anything else you could make out of crochet. I had a difficult time reading patterns and often would rely on my Mother in Law to translate them. After a while I began shopping around for easy to read instructions. I taught myself every stitch I could learn, and soon after that I realized that I no longer needed to rely on patterns to create fiber art. With this new found excitement I started sketching. I began crocheting hats and other items by memorizing stitches and counting each one to obtain the desired look. I now know what stitches to use in order to obtain a certain shape or look, and instead of written patterns I keep example pieces. Someday I would love to publish a book that uses sketches to teach those that have a hard time with patterns the basics for obtaining a simple, yet wonderful piece to admire. Some of my future goals are to teach the art of crochet to the future young ladies of the world, publish and offer patterns to the public, and best of all become a Etsy Featured Seller
Monday, April 28, 2008
Handmade Crochet
I recently crocheted this, "Rasta Hat", for an Etsy customer. I really enjoy the colors and I am sure that she will too!Thursday, April 24, 2008
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
5 tips for a balanced Creative Life
Hi Joy of Homemaking readers! My name is Heather and I've been asked to guest post today. I blog over at Maternal Spark, a site for Creative Moms. You'll often get a mommy perspective from my posts. Hope you enjoy them!
Five tips for a balanced Creative life.
1) Write it down!
Keep a mini note pad and pen with you at ALL times. I know it sounds silly but there have been many times when I was standing over a poopy diaper or washing bottles when a great idea came to me. Then, just as easily it was gone because the next baby thing took over. It's hard to keep a train of thought going when you see your baby putting something they shouldn't in their mouth. So jot it down, even if it's just a chicken scratch note. Then it will be there for you when you have time to think about it more and add some depth.
2) Let it go.
Yes, my house is a bit of a mess. There are toys on the floor and laundry that needs doing but I've come to realize that I can't do it all. So, if I'm going to make a go of this blog and write then something needs to give. For me it's the housework. Figure out what is important to you and what is not. If it can wait, let it. I'm giving you permission.
3) Take time out.
These days I can't even take a shower without dear hubby coming in to the bathroom to tell me that little H has pooped or done something cute. Now I lock the door. That time is important to me. It's time for me to be me and to let my mind wander (I've got that pen close in case it wanders somewhere important). Figure out when you can steal a little you time and protect it like you protect your kids from danger. Shower time, grocery shopping time, whatever. Make it work for you.
4) Avoid brain suckers.
Turn off that TV. Put down that trash mag. Freeing your mind of mental clutter will open the brain cells to what they do best. Create. As a writer I've always been told to read, read, read and I love to do it but, my time is limited and if I'm going to write something that is new and fresh then maybe my time is better spent, oh I don't know, maybe writing? If you work in visual arts then close your eyes for a minute and see what appears there. It might be something great.
5) Get organized for nap time (or babysitter time, or school, whatever).
Nap time is the best time to really get down to it. Get everything ready to go so all that's left to do once the baby's head hits the mattress is start on your project. Put some laundry in before hand, put the coffee pot on, set up your workspace, make sure you are fed, go pee. Put the baby down and get to work.
I hope you find your best way to keep creative AND be a great mommy. What works for you? Let us know in comments. If you'd like to subscribe to my posts click here
Five tips for a balanced Creative life.
1) Write it down!
Keep a mini note pad and pen with you at ALL times. I know it sounds silly but there have been many times when I was standing over a poopy diaper or washing bottles when a great idea came to me. Then, just as easily it was gone because the next baby thing took over. It's hard to keep a train of thought going when you see your baby putting something they shouldn't in their mouth. So jot it down, even if it's just a chicken scratch note. Then it will be there for you when you have time to think about it more and add some depth.
2) Let it go.
Yes, my house is a bit of a mess. There are toys on the floor and laundry that needs doing but I've come to realize that I can't do it all. So, if I'm going to make a go of this blog and write then something needs to give. For me it's the housework. Figure out what is important to you and what is not. If it can wait, let it. I'm giving you permission.
3) Take time out.
These days I can't even take a shower without dear hubby coming in to the bathroom to tell me that little H has pooped or done something cute. Now I lock the door. That time is important to me. It's time for me to be me and to let my mind wander (I've got that pen close in case it wanders somewhere important). Figure out when you can steal a little you time and protect it like you protect your kids from danger. Shower time, grocery shopping time, whatever. Make it work for you.
4) Avoid brain suckers.
Turn off that TV. Put down that trash mag. Freeing your mind of mental clutter will open the brain cells to what they do best. Create. As a writer I've always been told to read, read, read and I love to do it but, my time is limited and if I'm going to write something that is new and fresh then maybe my time is better spent, oh I don't know, maybe writing? If you work in visual arts then close your eyes for a minute and see what appears there. It might be something great.
5) Get organized for nap time (or babysitter time, or school, whatever).
Nap time is the best time to really get down to it. Get everything ready to go so all that's left to do once the baby's head hits the mattress is start on your project. Put some laundry in before hand, put the coffee pot on, set up your workspace, make sure you are fed, go pee. Put the baby down and get to work.
I hope you find your best way to keep creative AND be a great mommy. What works for you? Let us know in comments. If you'd like to subscribe to my posts click here
Monday, April 21, 2008
Homemakers List
Here is the beginning of the "Homemaker's List". If you see your name on the list, please feel free to link back to this post in your own blog.
Do you have a blog? Contact me and I will send you information about future opportunities to be a "guest blogger", on " The Joy of Homemaking".
***************************************************************************************
Update
" The Homemakers of Etsy ", will be a permanently featured list located in the left side bar. Is your name on the list? Are you curious about these homemakers? Give one of their names a click to see just how talented our homemakers are!
Be sure to subscribe to " The Joy of Homemaking", for future updates and information pertaining to homemaking and etsy.
Friday, April 18, 2008
My Garden to" Bee"
I find it incredibly ironic that, at one point in my life, had a job landscaping. It was my first and last job that I acquired in that field. First, of all I am petrified of bees, and I have never been stung. The though of that tiny little black and yellow insect injecting a stinger into my flesh seems morbid and gross. Yes, I am the lady that you see running down the street to get away from one swarming bee. I'm also the lady, you see, swerving in her car, in front of you because a bee has decided to pop in the window. Aside from the whole "bee" phobia, I really enjoy being outside, just not as an occupation.
Today, I had my first "bee" encounter of the season. It amazes me just how silly I can bee ( pun on words:). Sitting just below my drivers side window, there was a bee scouring to climb out the top open half . I talked my self into rolling down the window a bit, to let the monster out. Yes, I did say monster. I say monster because, when I see a bee I break out into a sweat, and if it comes too close I will scream. Don't judge! I'm sure that most people have the same fear. Don't they?
I say all of this to get down to the real reason for this post. Today, while stalking the Etsy forums, I ran across a gardening thread. Here's the link if you want to take a looksie. Anyway, it made me think of my own garden, or lack of. It will officially be a 1 year that we've lived in this house and, I want to celebrate with a new front yard landscape. When we first moved in, I took out some of the newer plants that may have been put there as a quick fix to sell the house. Those plants died by the time that we moved in because the house was vacant and nobody was there to care for them. At the time, our main concern was revamping the inside of the house, so we didn't get the chance to get down and dirty with the landscape. Right now, I 'm mapping out a plan to get a bunch of this done for under $100 dollars. I think that it may be tough, and it will be many years before it's completely the way that I want. I'm familiar with a few plants already, and I will most likely purchase them this weekend. I hope to also, pick up a tomato plant and a few other garden favorites. I even picked out a spot for the veggie garden. There is a pond that we never had the chance to get rid of ,so I will fill it with dirt and make that my little garden. I'll post pics later on. Happy Gardening!
Today, I had my first "bee" encounter of the season. It amazes me just how silly I can bee ( pun on words:). Sitting just below my drivers side window, there was a bee scouring to climb out the top open half . I talked my self into rolling down the window a bit, to let the monster out. Yes, I did say monster. I say monster because, when I see a bee I break out into a sweat, and if it comes too close I will scream. Don't judge! I'm sure that most people have the same fear. Don't they?
I say all of this to get down to the real reason for this post. Today, while stalking the Etsy forums, I ran across a gardening thread. Here's the link if you want to take a looksie. Anyway, it made me think of my own garden, or lack of. It will officially be a 1 year that we've lived in this house and, I want to celebrate with a new front yard landscape. When we first moved in, I took out some of the newer plants that may have been put there as a quick fix to sell the house. Those plants died by the time that we moved in because the house was vacant and nobody was there to care for them. At the time, our main concern was revamping the inside of the house, so we didn't get the chance to get down and dirty with the landscape. Right now, I 'm mapping out a plan to get a bunch of this done for under $100 dollars. I think that it may be tough, and it will be many years before it's completely the way that I want. I'm familiar with a few plants already, and I will most likely purchase them this weekend. I hope to also, pick up a tomato plant and a few other garden favorites. I even picked out a spot for the veggie garden. There is a pond that we never had the chance to get rid of ,so I will fill it with dirt and make that my little garden. I'll post pics later on. Happy Gardening!
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Contest #1
Come and be apart of " The Joy of Homemaking's" subscription contest! Presented by LSKcrochet , there will be an award given to the 100 th subscriber.
To start recieveing up to date information about ETSY features, Homemaking and LSKcrochet. The 100 th subscriber will recieve a FREE business card cozy from LSKcrochet.
To start recieveing up to date information about ETSY features, Homemaking and LSKcrochet. The 100 th subscriber will recieve a FREE business card cozy from LSKcrochet.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Pregnant Mothers and Baby item sellers
Thank you for your patience regarding the " Who's Pregnant" etsy forum post. Scroll down to see it or follow this link here
Saturday, April 12, 2008
"Sticky Bear" teaches your child to read!
During the summer on one of my thrift store outings, I came across
Sticky Bear. Scheduling in " Sticky Bear time" each day, made learning to read very easy. I had no idea what a blessing this would be to my son and myself. After the summer ended, and my little guy started kindergarten, his reading had improved immensely. Today, he can read and write exceptionally well for his age. Doing homework is a breeze and he actually enjoys showing off to friends and family. A parent recently approached me and asked me how I had taught my son to read. I mentioned "sticky bear" but since I had bought it second hand, I couldn't offer her a way of purchasing it. Today, I decided to do a Google search, and was able to find the website. I am very fortunate to have come across this software and I will be using this again to teach my 4 and 2 year old to read.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Family Calendar
This was the looooooongest week ever! I'm so thankful that the sun is shining and the kids are running around in the yard again. They can play outside all day if I let them. I also enjoy not having to clean up as much, because they are playing outdoors. This weekend will be nice as well, so I'm looking forward to seeing the ducks swim in the lake and taking a walk on the trails. Spending time together as family can be really hard when your husband works long hours. It's imperative to block out times and dates to have consistent " family time". When we don't get to spend time together as a family I can see a change in the children's behavior. I've decided to make a "family calendar" of events, so that the children will have something to look forward to. We are always together on Sundays. We attend church together and eat lunch around the table when we get back. I love it when we get to spend time together and I'm hoping that we can do it more often, not just on Sundays.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
"3 column layout" for Blogger
I spent the majority of Wednesday working on this " 3 column layout" that you see here. I searched etsy forums, and google for information on achieving the infamous "3 column layout". The sources that I came across were very detailed and easy to understand. Unfortunately, none of the formats that I saw worked with the new updated version of " Minima". I fooled around with the layout for hours until I realized that in order to update the " layout editor", you must make a new "html code" right underneath the " footer". Before I pressed the preview button I prayed that it would work and God answered my prayers! I had the new " 3 column layout" that I was hoping for. This has prompted me to start working on a article to help those of you who were also struggling with the HTML code adjustments. Please feel free to subsribe to this blog so that you won't miss it.
In the earlier part of the week I picked up a few books from the library about " Blogging". I want to make the transition from " amature blogger" to "professional blogger". I'm even considering taking a course in the fall on "Graphics". I would love to create a wide range of graphic lovelies for my new layout. "Patience is a virtue", and I need to work on this. The desire to " work from home", can be overwhelming, especially with small children. The laundry piles, the crumbs on the floor, and the seemingly insurmountable pile of toys in the playroom. These thing can all bring stress and fatigue on any " work at home mom". I've been managing through prayer and the occasional " time out for mommy", that my husband provides by taking the kids out for awhile. Some days are harder then others but, I wouldn't change it for the world. Staying focused and keeping on track will help me push through the tuff times and, make more room for the joyful moments as a wife and mother.
In the earlier part of the week I picked up a few books from the library about " Blogging". I want to make the transition from " amature blogger" to "professional blogger". I'm even considering taking a course in the fall on "Graphics". I would love to create a wide range of graphic lovelies for my new layout. "Patience is a virtue", and I need to work on this. The desire to " work from home", can be overwhelming, especially with small children. The laundry piles, the crumbs on the floor, and the seemingly insurmountable pile of toys in the playroom. These thing can all bring stress and fatigue on any " work at home mom". I've been managing through prayer and the occasional " time out for mommy", that my husband provides by taking the kids out for awhile. Some days are harder then others but, I wouldn't change it for the world. Staying focused and keeping on track will help me push through the tuff times and, make more room for the joyful moments as a wife and mother.
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