She knits (when she should be writing)

Seamless Crochet Scarf

2012-02-09T12:39:00.001-06:00

Well, after discovering my error in pattern reading, I was determined to make this scarf turn out cute after all. Using methods in Seamless Crochet, I finished it this morning.

Knitting Glass Guy Hooks and Circular Knitting Needles

2012-02-01T10:03:00.000-06:00

Looking at these hooks the first time on Facebook, I think I may have drooled on myself. These glass (pyrex) crochet hooks are the creation of Knitting Glass Guy Chris and he has been working with and creating his wonderful glass crochet hooks and knitting needles since 1996.

Right now, for the next few days, he is having a contest on Facebook to win 2 hooks or 2 needles. Here are some of his links if you want to pop over and say hello. (And start your list of all the hooks you must have.)

Find me on FaceBook as "Knittingglassguy Chris"

My Facebook Page

Find my artist page on Facebook as "KnittingGlassGuy"

My Facebook Artist Page

Find me on Twitter as "KnitGlassGuy"

My Twitter Profile

Find me on Ravelry.com as "KnittingGlassGuy"

My Ravelry Profile

Feel free to contact me by phone, or email, anytime.

Chris 661-547-2555

knittingglassguy@yahoo.com

You can also check out his galley and website at:
www.knittingGlassGuy.com

Make sure you enter the contest by February 5th!

Seamless Crochet Blog Tour and Giveaway

2012-02-01T08:55:00.001-06:00

When I first came across this book in the Interweave Crochet Accessories special edition for 2011, I was hooked. The Radiance Sparkling Skinny Scarf caught my eye and I was intrigued by the idea of a seamless scarf done in a pattern. Picking up hook and yarn, I played with it but realized something rather quickly. One must learn to better follow diagrams to avoid the urge to stab ones self in the eye with ones hook.

I had the first motif on the scarf looking awesome. The second one was gorgeous. Then I ended up in the middle of the two with nary a place to go. Rip. Rip. Ribbit. Read directions again.

There is a happy ending. I got super good at triple crochet clusters and I have a scarf that is morphing into something that is going to look great once I adapt it to the non pattern solution I just came up with.

Happily, my copy of Seamless Crochet arrived and I was able to look in the back of the book and see very detailed instructions on how to read the diagrams, both by color code (which matters) and in how the diagram works in general and for the projects in the book. There is even a DVD to explain further. You can bet on my day off tomorrow, that is where I am going to be. Hook in hand in front of the television, learning more about this awe inspiring book.

What I liked:

The diagrams in the book are clear once you understand the method behind them. So are the written directions. Combine the two and you have a marvelous system that is truly unique. One of the things I hate about motif style work is the amount of ends you have to weave in. Oh the horror. Not with this book though. Kristin Omdahl has done a great job of crafting projects that have little to no pieces to join and Yay (insert happy dance) hardly any tails to hide.

The other thing I liked was the basic layout of the projects. You have a pattern block so if you want to adapt the theme to a project other than the one listed, you can do it. (Or like me who is learning how to read diagrams and made a detour or two that will have some creative offshoots from the original piece.) The projects themselves are lovely and I am itching to sit down and work through them. I love lace and the open style to these patterns is very appealing.

What I didn't:

Not a thing. My own inexperience was a stumbling block, but I am stubborn and am learning. The diagrams, once I received the book for review, are clear and I began to understand some of what I had missed in the magazine article.

Overall:

This book uses geometric patterns to create a project base that will delight crocheters of all levels. There are 18 projects but infinite possibilities that will change the way you crochet and have you looking to change other patterns to reflect the methods taught here. The DVD included, in addition to the information at the back of the book is supremely helpful and will lead you to success.

5/5

About the author:

Kristin Omdahl designs knit and crochet garments and patterns under her label KRISTIN and website www.styledbykristin.com. She appears in every episode of Knitting Daily TV on public television as the show's Crochet Corner expert, conducts seminars around the country and teaches knitting and crochet in her DVD workshops, including Innovative Crochet: Motifs. She is also the author of Wrapped in Crochet, Crochet So Fine and A Knitting Wrapsody. Kristin's work has appeared in many magazines and books. She enjoys knitting and crocheting in her orchid garden in sunny southwest Florida.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Hairpin Lace Scarf Project

2012-01-21T00:04:00.000-06:00

Every new project is a journey. After working on this particular one, I believe it even more. I had never tried hairpin lace before and was thrilled to pick up the loom and give it a whirl.

My pattern came from the very amazing crochet book:

You can also find this wonderful pattern on the Stitch Diva website.

I found some of my most basic information on how to start this project on YouTube.

This video really broke everything down to the basics, so I could quickly do the hairpin lace portion.

Then I started on the edging instructions and just about freaked out. I was doing fine on row one. My hook was too big, but well, it was going great until ROW TWO. (insert corny doom music). Wow. After about ripped out much of my hair, I contacted some lovely folks on Ravelry and Facebook and went to knitting class, book and project in hand.

www.stitchdiva.com

My wonderful knitting class mentor Mary suggested I get a smaller hook and helped me to work through some of the instructions. My new Ravelry friends meanwhile had been dissecting the instructions from what they remembered about their own experiences with this project and were able to give me something for someone in my stage of learning. Boy, did I learn a lot on this project. Crochet directions without the chart are kind of like algebra. I bet you can't guess how good I was at that? (insert snorts of laughter here.)

Anyhow...With the patience of my new friend Lisa, who literally transcribed the pattern line by line, I finished the scarf for my mother tonight. She is turning 70 at the end of this month and I wanted to show her my progress from knitting with baseball bats (as she calls them) to crocheting with a size E and not gauging out my eyeballs with it. (mostly).

So, in conclusion. I have learned this today...

Crochet charts are good. Written instructions begin to resemble algebra problems to the inexperienced eye and do just about the same thing to my mental state.

Have chocolate nearby.

Ravelry is your friend. Bless you ladies! Mwah!!!

Hairpin lace is actually non-scary and totally easy. It's the edging that might get you.

Team efforts work. Yes, yes they do. Thank goodness for knitting class.

Victory is possible when it comes down to making it for your Mama.

Happy Holidays From Busy Mom's Designs

2011-12-11T05:00:00.000-06:00

Looking for a last minute gift for the little cutie in your life? Try this wonderful headband from Busy Mom Designs. Learning to crochet this lovely headband for my niece was a joy...

Making the chain...

Creating the headband...

Flower power!

Ribbons and curls make a flower!

Rose

Artful creation...

The directions for this piece were very clear and easy to understand.

Check out more patterns to delight the ones you love!

Win a copy of this lovely pattern.

Happy Halloween From Busy Mom Designs

2011-10-28T00:49:00.001-05:00

BusyMomDesigns

Busy Mom Designs is a one-mama operation!

I am Tricia, busy mom to 4 little ones, but I still somehowfind lots of time to crochet (often in the wee hours of the night) and love todesign patterns for all levels of expertise.

In under 2 years, since my first pattern was published,thousands of Busy Mom Designs patterns have been sold worldwide via Etsy andseveral other resources (ArtFire, Ravelry, Annies Attic, Lulu, etc.).

Patterns are easy to read and understand and are always funto work up!

I am always happy to help if ever you should have a questionabout any of my patterns (or crocheting in general) and will do my best to workwith you to help you make the perfect creation!

crochet-pattern-the-elegance-headband

crochet-pattern-simple-pumpkin

I noticed this pattern on Tricia's site and knew I had to try to make it. Being a very beginner at crochet, I felt the fear and did it anyway. Take a look at my progress!

A visit to Busy Mom's website was

very worthwhile...on the pattern, she gives the link

to how to make the magic circle to make sure you get a perfect

little circle in the center that slides closed every time.

magiccircle

I did it!

And around we go! Time to form the pumpkin.

Wow! It is starting to look pumpkiny!

Making the stem...

Done!

We have a baby pumpkin!

Off I go to make some more!

If you would like the chance to win this really great pattern, fill out the giveaway form. Make sure you thank Tricia for being a part of our Halloween fun!

On My Wishlist...'Twas the Knits Before Christmas

2011-10-03T23:17:00.000-05:00

Knitting enthusiasts will get into the Christmas spirit right away when they open this evocatively illustrated book. It combines a charming selection of holiday-themed knitting projects with an illustrated presentation of Clement Clarke Moore's classic poem, 'Twas the Night Before Christmas. Beautiful full-page and full-color Christmas illustrations capture the holiday spirit, and many of the book's pictures feature knitted items based on characters and objects cited in the beloved Christmas poem. Among them are a knitted Saint Nicholas, his reindeer, a Christmas wreath, Christmas dolls, and a large Christmas stocking. Best yet, knitters can reproduce each one of these items for themselves. Author Fiona Goble presents detailed directions for knitting each Christmas item--ten projects in total. Knitters who complete all of these projects will have a wonderful set of holiday decorations for their home or their Christmas tree. The book's opening chapter was prepared especially for inexperienced knitters. It reviews basic knitting techniques as an introduction to the book's projects.

Barnes & Noble.com

This book looks great and I am totally adding it to my Christmas wish list!

Crochet Fun and Follow Friday

2011-09-01T21:53:00.003-05:00

Hello everyone and welcome to another Follow Friday. I hope your week has been a good one and your fall projects are going well.

Q. If you could change the ending of any book (or series), which book would you choose? Why and to what?

A. Well, since this is a crafty kind of blog, I am going to stick with my current project book.

I love this book to death, and have already made the cupcake scarf. Currently, I am in the process of making cookies for the one on the cover. So cute! What I wish the book had would be more bakery items and less things like pizza and spaghetti. Bakery items are cute, but I am not so sure I want to run around with meatballs hanging off my chest. Just sayin'. More cookies!!! Less weird pasta!

Make Stuff Together by Bernadette Noll & Kathie Sever

2011-09-01T15:48:00.002-05:00

24 simple projects to create as a family.

During these uncertain times, families around the country are slowing down, reconnecting, and getting back to basics. One of the best ways for families to share experiences and meaningful time together is through the art of crafting, sewing, and recycling.

Make Stuff Together gives you 24 projects to build family connections while being creative and truly enjoying your time together. The authors have uniquely broken down projects into manageable chunks for the shorter attention spans of children?enabling even smaller kids to accomplish bigger projects. Projects promote the slow family movement. A fun variety of useful finished pieces and suggestions on where to find materials.

Brimming with full-color photography.

Whether you're a mom looking for innovative projects for your kids, or a seasoned sewer and advocate of the slow family movement, Make Stuff Together gives you 24 projects for getting back to basics.

Goodreads

This book has really gotten back to basics with projects that are primarily recycled and very much made from scratch. Each project is focusing on home, hearth and family and I found that very appealing. From the library bag, to the game roll ups, I thought the projects were very homespun, basic and great to work on together as a family.

Authors Bernadette Noll and Kathie Sever do a great job recreating cool crafts with easy to follow instructions, patterns and ideas. Celebrating milestones, events and just getting together to have some time unplugged with the family are big themes in this book. Both authors have been featured in publications including Mothering Magazine, Chicago Tribune and Child Magazine.

Better Homes and Gardens Best of Knit It

2011-08-19T14:11:00.000-05:00

Release date:

August 29, 2011

I just got this in the mail this week from the wonderful publicity department at Wiley. As soon as I ripped open the package and sat down with the book, I was hooked. With over 100 patterns both in knit and crochet, there is something for every level of skill and every desire. Kids sweaters, purses, coordinating pillows and bed spreads, crochet prayer shawls, stuffed animals, bath sets and more...

Looking at the directions, they are very clear and tell you exactly how many stitches you should have in a given row. There are skill levels at the onset of the project so you can gauge how you are doing. At the back of the book there are stitch guides to help you learn or relearn knit and crochet stitches. Most of the patterns are written out and not charted. For me that is a very good thing.

I want to do the Green Lace Shawl on page 99! Gorgeous!!! So is the Mohair Scarf on page 96.

This is a great book to have in any knitter or crocheters library. It is a keeper and I am so happy to have received it just in time for the holidays!

Follow Friday and Blogger Hop

2011-07-15T00:20:00.000-05:00

Greetings fellow needle workers and I hope this finds you having a safe and cool weekend in the air conditioning. I don't know about you, but it is so hot outside, I don't go out there unless I have to! Sit a spell and tell me what you are working on. Thanks for stopping in and have a great weekend!

Question of the week:

What do I do when I am not reading?

Hmmm. I read so much, but filling in the blanks...I write alot. Blogging takes up some of my time. So do my puppies and my husband. I review music, so when I am not listening to it, I am usually writing a review about it. When time permits, I try to make my Thursday knitting class, but lately that has been quite the challenge with my full time job demanding more of my time than normal. So, I crochet a bit here and there, watch a sitcom with my husband over dinner and then I am usually back on the computer writing, blogging or reviewing something. Typically, this means I am surrounded by my furry kids, trying to either write a bit on the book, toss some laundry in the machine and run the vacuum all while running plot lines in my head and trying to squeeze as much into my time off as I can. Life is never boring at my house.

Where do you get your books?

Answer: Most of the time I buy my books, both on my Nook and in physical form. I get some from publishers and authors who are interested in having me review them, and I find some at the e-branch of my public library. I love that you can use the e-branch Overdrive system with the iPad and the Nookcolor. It is super cool. I also use Netgalley. For any of you bloggers out there who have not investigated Netgalley, you really need to check it out. It is like an extended library check out system that you can use on your e-reader or iPad.

Follow Friday and Blogger Hop

2011-07-08T00:22:00.000-05:00

Welcome to another blog hop weekend! I hope your projects are coming along well. My cookie scarf is well on its way and pretty soon I will have more pictures to share with you. Until then, enjoy the hop, make some new friends and tell me what you are reading and stitching!

Q. Let's step away from besties...What is the worst book that you've ever read and actually finished?

A. Oh wow. That is a hard question. The worst book that I actually finished. That is so hard. There have been a lot of books I have read over the years that don't get finished. I think I would have to say the one I hated the most was:

I mean, really. A story about a guy that turns into a giant roach? Oh the horror. It was the worst. Wait. No that might actually go to:

I hated every second of this book. It was awful. It's funny, I don't remember why I hated it, but the very thought of reading it again makes me shudder.

As long as we are talking about knitting, crochet and books we hated, let's bring up this one. Last Christmas I tried to make the holly leaf pattern from this book. I tried. My knitting class tried. No deal. The instructions were terrible and the actual holly leaf "looked like a bug" to quote one of the ladies in my class. Not a stirring endorsement to be sure. One of the amazing ladies in my class ended up creating a pattern for me. Go figure.

This week, the question isn't really a question...It is a promotion of another blog's giveaway! So here we are a hunting! Let's see who we can find! Hmmm...our hostess of course! Since she took the time to give to us, I figured we should all know about her giveaway!

My first sugar cookie for the cookie scarf.

2011-07-01T11:11:00.001-05:00

I am now starting on Twinkie Chan's cookie scarf. There are several different cookies in the scarf and it should look amazing. There will be sprinkles and chocolate chips too!

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4th of July Follow Friday!

2011-06-30T23:57:00.000-05:00

Happy Follow Friday! Hope this finds you in the air conditioning, happily knitting or crocheting something amazing. If you are just joining us, welcome! Hope you will stay a moment and tell me what your favorite knitting or crochet book is. Have a great weekend!

Q. ACK! Your favorite book/movie character (example Hermione Granger played by the Emma chick) just walked into the room! Who is it and what would be your first reaction? You get extra points if you include visual stimulation.

Nicky Epstein is one of my favorite knitting books ever. I have made three flowers from the book Nicky Epstein's Knitted Flowers and have made one from the crochet version. Both are lovely books that are treasured pieces in my library. If I ever met Nicky Epstein, I would pepper her with questions about knitting and ask her if she has an orchid pattern.

“What keeps you reading beyond the first few pages of a book, and what makes you want to stop reading a book and put it back on the shelf?“

Answer:

The voice of the book has to grab me within the first few pages. The point of view, dialogue, and characters have to be there. The other thing that drives me crazy is when a book is marketed for a certain genre or age group and it doesn't fit within that category. Especially if a middle grade book is being marketed for a teen audience. That just does not work and that is the fastest way to find a book flying back onto the shelf.

Amigurumi Toy Box by Ana Paula Rimoli: The Review

2011-06-30T09:04:00.000-05:00

Crocheters everywhere fell in love with the quirky toys in Amigurumi World and Amigurumi Two! Now Ana Paula Rimoli presents the third book in her best-selling series. Sparkling with playful ideas inspired by her children, this wildly imaginative collection will tickle kids of all ages.

* Choose from more than 25 irresistible toys that stitch up quickly
* Catch Ana's creative zaniness--put a grin on a silly hot dog, stitch a princess frog with a water-lily throne, make mom and baby koalas, create a tugboat, and more
* Find step-by-step instructions, great photos, and lots of funny friends

Goodreads

I received this book from the wonderful folks at Martingale for a review. This is one of the cutest books on amigurumi I have ever had the privilege to review. The designs are easy to understand. They are in the written style, not charted. At the end of each row of instruction, the author wonderfully gives you how many stitches you need. As someone who is learning more and more about crochet all the time, this is a wonderful thing.

The pictures and instruction are good also. Pictures to know what you are trying to get to, and the instructions for anyone who may need a moment to remember what a certain stitch is. Great book for beginners!

Project wise, this book has everything. Unicorns, birds, bears, pigs, snakes, frogs, bunnies, puppies...you name it, it is there. My favorites are the flan, hot cocoa and cake. Yes...cake!!!! So cute you won't believe it.

This book gets five stars because of the easy of instruction, the sheer cuteness of the projects and overall presentation. If you love to crochet, grab yourself one of these gems at the bookstore. It would be a great thing to start with for small gifts year round, or stocking stuffers for the holidays.

If you want to know more about this wonderful crochet artist/author, head over to her Etsy shop at:

www.anapaulaoli.etsy.com

Visit her blog:

www.amigurumipatterns.blogspot.com

For more excellent knitting, quilting, crochet and craft books, visit the publisher at:

www.martingale-pub.com

How to: Colonial Knots

2011-06-25T11:13:00.000-05:00

The wonderful ladies of my stitching and knitting groups told me about an easy knot that can take the place of a French Knot in embroidery. If you look at the pics of my cupcake scarf, you can see the finished product. Check out the technique and I am sure you will agree that this is an excellent stitch to learn.

At the craft festival last weekend.

2011-06-17T15:31:00.001-05:00

Our local library had an event where we could show arts and crafts. I brought my cupcake scarf to work on.

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Cupcake scarf finished...

2011-06-17T15:29:00.001-05:00

It is done!

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Steampunk Softies

2011-05-26T22:23:00.000-05:00

One thing that defines the steampunk movement is the artistic nature of its followers. From the creation of eye-catching costumes to the aesthetic update of already existing technology, few movements encourage being handy as much as the steampunk movement does. The creations in this book will speak to the inventive soul of steampunk enthusiasts who frequent an array of blogs, online magazines, fan sites, and fantasy/role-playing conventions.

Steampunk Softies contains patterns, photos, and illustrated instructions for eight cleverly designed plush dolls. While the instructions are easy enough for a new crafter to follow, they contain enough steps to keep even a steampunk craft-master interested. The book even contains tips for how to distress fabrics and materials to give the dolls an extra aged appeal.

(Goodreads)

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair review.

The originality of these dolls is wonderful. The directions are easy to understand and take to new levels of creativity.

If you are unfamiliar with Steampunk, you may have heard of authors like Lemony Snicket, Jules Verne or Mary Shelley. Gail Carriger is another wonderful author in this genre. Kady Cross is another. It is a captivating time of possibilities and very exciting gadgetry.

This book has great full color photos, blueprints for each of the eight designs and a reference section for materials. The coolest thing about this book is that it is for the experienced sewer or the novice. Just have fun, grab some gears and some scraps of fabric and go to it!

Positively Postcards

2011-05-16T09:54:00.000-05:00

A small-sized commitment of time is all you need to create these picture-perfect postcard quilts! Give, trade, or treasure these 4" x 6" mini-greetings-and make a one-of-a-kind quilt in an evening.

Follow one step-by-step project to learn the technique; then get inspired by more than 85 creative variations, all shown in close-up photos.

Choose a novelty fabric to start; then learn to develop your own themes with photos of fabric and embellishment collections.

Embellish postcards with machine satin stitching, ribbons, yarns, buttons, beads, rubber stamps, costume jewelry-there's no limit to what you can use!
(Goodreads)

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

This book is simply beautiful. The photos of the projects are breathtaking and the instructions are easy and understandable. Looking at some of the amazing artistry, I wanted to scavenge around my closet for some fabric to start stitching right away. Perfect for quilters, these small projects are lovely and inspiring projects to keep or give away.

Baby Slippers!

2011-04-29T22:50:00.001-05:00

I finished the crochet baby slippers I had been working on for a friend. My first granny square project. Woot!!

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It's My Birthday and I Must Have Cupcakes!

2011-04-29T09:43:00.000-05:00

Happy Follow Friday!

2011-04-29T09:18:00.000-05:00

Good morning everyone and welcome to another Follow Friday! This week's question from our host Parajunkee is:

Q. Keeping with the dystopian and apocalypse theme that seems to be running rampant on parajunkee.com, I have one very hard question for you: If you were stocking your bomb shelter, what books would you HAVE to include if you only had space for ten?

Wow. I actually had to go and sleep on that one and I am still not sure. Let's see if I can do this.

1. Hunger Games

2. Outlander

3. Forest of Hands and Teeth

4. My Nook (until the power goes out!)

5. Breathers

6. Twilight

7. Bird Sisters

8. Visual Guide to Crochet

9. Southern Living Cookbook

10. Fannie Farmer Cookbook

That was tough. I know I will change my mind and have to switch things out at least once. If it comes down to it, I was actually thinking about what you would need if it went all post apocalyptic. Has anyone read Life As We Knew It ? It is the book about the moon coming close to the earth and everything going crazy? The power goes out, volcanoes erupt and all the Walmarts run out of Twinkies. Wait. Maybe that was Zombieland. Whatever. Anyway. Twinkies. Or, in my case, vanilla zingers with cream filling. Orange cupcakes too. OMG. How would I live without orange cupcakes?

This week my washer went out and it has been the biggest pain ever. It reminded me of the hurricane a couple of years ago when we were out of power for several days and had to try and cook what we could from the freezer on the gas stove and grill outside. Kind of feels like that I guess. At least there is a laundry facility down the street even though I hate going there.

I digress. What would I need if the world did go nuts and I had to build a bomb shelter or at least start hording can goods or something? Ten things. Here we go.

1. Lots of can goods.

2. Orange cupcakes by the case.

3. Dog food by the ton. (furry kids)

4. Water. Lots of bottled water.

5. Granola Bars

6. Toilet Paper. (no comment)

7. Knitting needles, crochet hooks and yarn.

8. A weapon of some sort to kill anyone who threatened my zinger supply. (Just sayin.)

9. Soap and deodorant

10. A book on how to garden, because I think we may need more than canned yams eventually.

Now for more hopping...

"Summer is coming quickly - what 2011 summer release are you are most looking forward to?"

Wow. There are so many. The first one I am dying to get my hands on is the new Charlaine Harris book in the Sookie series. Dead Reckoning. I also want the new Ami Ami Dogs book. Yay!

Thanks everyone for visiting on the Hop and Follow Friday! If you want to join the linky list, head over to:

http://www.parajunkee.com/

http://www.crazy-for-books.com/

Thanks for stopping by and I hope you will "Like" the new Facebook fan page while you are here. I love my followers and twitter peeps, so I hope to see you around!

Follow Friday

2011-04-21T23:12:00.001-05:00

Happy Follow Friday!

Welcome to another Follow Friday and Blogger Hop. To sign up on the linky lists, make sure you visit our host's sites at: http://www.parajunkee.com/ and http://www.crazy-for-books.com/

This week's question from Parajunkee is:

What is on your playlist right now?

My newest thing as a blogger is to review music. I love it. http://muzikreviews.com/ is where you can find some of my reviews, along with my new music blog: http://bookgirlsmusicmusings.blogspot.com/.

Salon of Refuse is the review I just turned in and now my new favorite band. Check my site for posting on the review in the next couple of days. They have a free demo that is supremely awesome. The vocals soar and just stick in your head. I love them. You can find them on Facebook, Twitter and MySpace. Tell them Dana sent you!

"If you find a book you love, do you hunt down other books by the same author?"

Oh yeah! Give me books by authors I love, chocolate, music and yarn!

Follow Friday and Blogger Hop

2011-04-14T23:16:00.001-05:00

Happy Follow Friday everyone! Let me tell you a little bit about this HOP. Every friday or really Thursday evening we all get together and say HI! But, we need to know how to find you, so please leave your link in the Mr. Linky below. Also on Follow Friday we have a Feature...because alliteration is the way we roll. Each week is a different feature from the book blogging community. They are picked randomly or I give in after multiple harassing emails. Just depends on the week. If you want to be next weeks feature...leave your link. Also, I've had a recent rash of people signing up on the linky weeks later, which sort of defeats the purpose. If you want to participate check back here on the next Friday!

Our feature this week is...

Marie and Brie @ Romance Around the Corner

Our names are Marie and Brie, and we both are behind Romance Around the Corner. We divided the responsibility of telling you about our blog and so Brie wrote the first paragraph and Marie the second one.

We met a long time ago on the first day of college, and we have been best friends ever since. Every time we saw each other we talked about the books we were reading, I recommended a new author to her, she recommended one to me, and that’s pretty much all we talked about, well, besides gossips and men -and Brad Pitt cheating on Jennifer Anniston (I told you we met a long time ago)-. Now Marie is overseas and we decided to start the blog mostly as a way to keep with the tradition of talking about books (and because Marie just couldn’t live without me and was really sad and depressed, I’m that great!), also because I’ve been a blog stalker for years and I like reading reviews almost as much as I love reading the books, and we always wanted to participate in the romance community as more than silent readers.

Well, I think to remember things a bit differently, Brie nagged at me until I agreed to do the blog (to be honest it didn’t take that much convincing for me to agree), anyway. What we are trying to do with our Blog is write the type of reviews that we like to read, we explain why we love a book or why it didn’t work for us. We are fans of romance, we particularly love happy endings and steamy sex scenes (although I have read my fair share of books with bittersweet endings). In our Blog you are going to find reviews about everything that has some romance in it: Contemporary, Paranormal, YA, Women’s Fiction, Erotica, Historical, Suspense, GBLT and everything in between. We do have our preferences, Brie loves Contemporary and Erotica and I love pretty much everything, but if I had to choose one subgenre it would be Romantic Suspense, and YA, and Paranormal, and Comedy, Brie says that I’m a book’s garbage disposal because I’ll read and like pretty much anything, I guess she’s right!

Q. Do you have anyone that you can discuss books with IRL? Tell us about him/her.

Let me tell you a little something about my mom's neighbor. You see in my area of town we like to sit on porches and drink. Drink wine. Why go anywhere else when you have these big beautiful porches and this great weather. My mother has a great porch and I bring my 3 year old over there and she plays with the neighbor's kids and I sit on the porch and book gossip with my mom's neighbor and her tons of sisters that stop by and say hello. Think BIG Italian family, lot of kids, lots of loudness. It is so much fun. Last weekend we discussed Karen Marie Moning and the hotness that is Barrons...how much fun is that. The tipsier you get the raunchier the conversation gets, until my mom walked out on us and we were discussing The Harlequin (Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter, Book 15) and why we stopped reading the series.

My answer:

My Mom and sister both love "vampire smut." I used to read it more than I do now. They love to tell me about the latest book they have found and how hot the guy is. I still read it from time to time, but I am in a YA mode right now.

To comment on the Anita Blake series, I used to really like it until it became so focused on extreme erotica. I like that, to a point. You just have to have a plot and focus on that. A little bit of love scene goes a long way. If it is every other page, you are going to lose me as a reader.

Now for the Follow Fun!

To join the fun and make now book blogger friends, just follow these simple rules:

(Required) Follow the Follow My Book Blog Friday Host { Parajunkee.com } and any one else you want to follow on the list
(Required) Follow our Featured Bloggers - http://romance-around-the-corner.blogspot.com/
Put your Blog name & URL in the Linky thing.
Grab the button up there and place it in a post, this post is for people to find a place to say hi in your comments
Follow Follow Follow as many as you can, as many as you want, or just follow a few. The whole point is to make new friends and find new blogs. Also, don't just follow, comment and say hi. Another blogger might not know you are a new follower if you don't say "HI"
If someone comments and says they are following you, be a dear and follow back. Spread the Love...and the followers

Happy Follow Friday!

Follow it up with your twitter address if you want to get that one out!

*********

"Pick a character from a book you are currently reading or have just finished and tell us about him/her."

My answer:

I just finished Vanished by Sophie Jordan. This is the second book in the Firelight series. The main character's name is Jacinda. She is a Draki, part human/part dragon. She is also the only fire breather in her pride. Because of her unique talent, she is a prize.

In Firelight Jacinda's mother takes her and her sister Tamra away from the pride to live in the desert, hoping to kill the Draki within Jacinda. Tamra had no manifestations, and reveled in the human world. Jacinda was miserable and wanted nothing more than to go back. Until she met Will.

Jacinda is a strong character. She makes the Firelight series a real page turner. Her devotion to Will conflicts with the need to save the pride from danger, and as a reader, you think you know where she is going but are continually surprised by the outcome of events.

This book is being made into a movie and I can't wait to see who the lucky redhead will be! Jacinda is a force of nature and I will be one of the first in line to see this wonderful character brought even more to life on the big screen.

An additional thought for my friends who crochet and knit like the wind...Have you seen a dragon project that stands out in your mind? I would love to hear about it...

Happy Follow Friday!

Knitting in the Sun: For Kids

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32 warm-weather knitting projects to make for kids

As a knitter and teacher in Southern California, author Kristi Porter knows well what warm-weather knitters want. Based on the success of her previous book, Knitting in the Sun: 32 Projects for Warm Weather, it's evident that patterns for warmer weather and warmer climate knitting are in demand.
This time Kristi focuses her knitting needles on warm weather patterns for children, bringing you a stunningly designed collection of projects and the same beautiful photography you enjoyed in Knitting in the Sun.

32 warm weather patterns for children sized 2-12

Garments are designed to be comfortable to both knit and wear during warm weather

Other title by Porter: Knitting in the Sun: 32 Projects for Warm Weather

If you enjoy knitting in the summer or live in a climate that is warm year-round, More Knitting in the Sun will keep your needles clicking until the wee hours of morning.
(Goodreads)

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for a review.

Reviewing this book was not hard. All you have to do is look at one photograph and you are pulled in. I loved the previous book, Knitting in the Sun and knew I had to check out this book. While I don't have kids, it gives me great ideas for gifts for my niece. The clever designs and adorable outfits make me want to go and hide in the corner with my knitting needles and not come up for air.

Excellent book. The patterns are primarily written, but there are some that are charted.

Bulky sweaters be gone!

Knitting in the Sun gives you more than 30 projects designed exclusively to knit and wear in warm weather. You'll find patterns to keep your needles clicking whether you're lounging by the pool or taking a break at the beach:

5 sleeveless tops
4 short-sleeved tops
4 lightweight long-sleeved tops
6 summer-weight cardigans
2 skirts, a sleep set, and a wearable bathing suit
9 accessories ranging from a beach hat to a cotton wrap to a beach chair

Whether you're new to knitting or a seasoned stitcher, you'll find fresh patterns and compelling designs to create gorgeous lightweight pieces that will make a splash on sunny days. (Goodreads)

This book is one of my favorites. With the same style as the new More Knitting in the Sun, the original is wonderful for those warm spring and summer days that are just up ahead.

My favorite scarf

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The yarn for this scarf was given to me by my mother. It is simply gorgeous with the colors flowing into one another.

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Hoppy Follow Friday!

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Hello everyone and Happy Follow Friday!

We now have our own Facebook Fan Page:

http://facebook.com/pages/She-Knits-When-She-Should-Be-Writing/116043581808824

Hope to see you there. Give it a "Like."

Now for some Follow Fun...

Happy Follow Friday everyone! Let me tell you a little bit about this HOP. Every Friday or really Thursday evening we all get together and say HI! But, we need to know how to find you, so please leave your link in the Mr. Linky below. Also on Follow Friday we have a Feature...because alliteration is the way we roll. Each week is a different feature from the book blogging community. They are picked randomly or I give in after multiple harassing emails. Just depends on the week. If you want to be next weeks feature...leave your link. Also, I've had a recent rash of people signing up on the linky weeks later, which sort of defeats the purpose. If you want to participate check back here on the next Friday!

Our feature this week is...

Lesley @ My keeper shelf

Hi there, my name is Lesley from My keeper shelf, I live in Scotland in the UK.

I'm fairly new to the world of blogging although I have always checked out other blogs for what to read next suggestions. It kind of started with joining Goodreads last year to help me keep a track of all the books I had read and to find suggestions for fab new books from like minded paranormal romance and urban fantasy readers. I then progressed into joining a few groups on Goodreads to discuss my favourite authors (Karen Marie Moning, Stacia Kane, Ilona Andrews and Nalini Singh to name but a few.) and was then inspired to start my own blog focusing on the types of books I love the most- paranormal romance and urban fantasy (although I do love a good smexy cowboy book now and then!)

I love reviewing books but I am in no way a professional reviewer providing amazingly insightful critique, I like to keep it simple. I'm a reader first and foremost. I pick up a book because something about it interests me: the story, the authors previous work or the gorgeous cover. I absolutely love to drool over book covers and have realised that I often, ok I admit it always, judge a book by it's cover so I like to include new covers on my blog and well, drool.

I came up with the name my keeper shelf as that's how I categorise books. If I love a book it goes on my keeper shelf. This usually means I have folded down or bookmarked pages at the "good bits" and I will go back time and time again to reread my favourite pages. My blog is simple but fun (hopefully!) I would love it if you would come over and say hi.

Q. Do you judge a book by it's cover?

Yes. Yes. Yes. I'm a graphic designer, to me things should look pretty. If a cover is so bad, I won't even pick up the book. I have been surprised though. A book that I thought had a horrendous cover...I really enjoyed. Here it is, what do you think? Great book though...

Yes. I have done it too. With knitting books or crochet, if the pictures don't get me, then no deal. I have to be able to see what I am aiming for after all. It doesn't always help, like with the baby booties I am trying to do right now, but with scarves at least, it helps. Every day a new lesson, right?

Have a great weekend everyone and hope to see you on the fan page!

A book I can't wait to check out...

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Fiona Goble's lovely and humorous characters and instantly recognizable, from the bride's broad smile and sparkling engagement ring to the groom's dashing uniform (complete with tiny sequin orders and medals). We've included suggestions for creating a selection of customized guests, too, so you can use your own creativity in putting them together. With a backdrop of Westminster Abbey included, so that you can display your creations in authentic surroundings, Knit Your Own Royal Wedding is funny, cute, and easy enough for even a knitting novice to tackle - go on, get our your needles and help your favourite royals tie the knot.

This book looks like loads of fun! Especially with the Royal Wedding around the corner. It is in stores now, so be sure to check it out.

Book Blogger Hop and Follow Friday

2011-03-31T20:30:00.001-05:00

Hello everyone and Happy April Fool's Day and of course, Blog Hop and Follow Friday!

Our first host, Crazy-for-Books (http://www.crazy-for-books.com/) is asking the following question.

"Since today is April Fool's Day in the USA, what is the best prank you have ever played on someone OR that someone has played on you?"

My answer:

Strangely enough, the only prank I can remember pulling is putting tennis balls in my husbands pillow. In my defense, he pranks me constantly. I keep threatening to put his underwear in the freezer. One day...One day...

What has he done to me to warrant tennis balls? Turned my pants inside out one morning when I was late going to school, putting dog toys under my pillow, faking me out about pigeons being small turkeys. I freaking believed him. Ugh! (This is when I was much younger, people. I'm just sayin'.)

What else...there have been so many things over the years you start to lose track of them all. He is a sweet trickster at heart and keeps me on my toes.

I hope you and yours have a safe and fun April Fool's Day!

Thursday, March 31, 2011

Feature & Follow Friday #39

Our feature this week is...

Books Ahoy!

Last week I decided that I wanted to start a book blog because I love to read books. I also thought it would be cool to share my opinion of a book with other people who also like reading, so I did a little research. I decided to ask my friend BookLover and she thought it was a great idea, so we became co-writers. After deciding on what we would do on the blog BooksAhoy was born.

Personally I love to read and there is hardly ever a time when you won't see my nose in a book. My favorite genre of books are action/adventure books with a little romance thrown into the mix, such as Twilight. BookLover is a big fan of the fantasy books. This combination gives us both a chance to explore new book boundaries. Overall, we love to read and can't imagine a world without books.

Q. What is the book that you really don't want to admit to loving??

For me it would be Time And Again: Time Was\Times Change by Nora Roberts. For some reason I adore that book, but I just can't admit to loving anything by Nora Roberts. LOL

My answer:

Wow. I have to think of something here. I guess the book I get most embarrassed about that I actually liked was Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers. Normally, I don't care for Christian Fiction. Most especially if it is preachy. Somehow, that one got by my radar and I actually liked it.

Thanks for another edition of Follow Friday! Hope you all have a great week! Stay a moment and share some comment love!

Twinkie Chan Cupcake Scarf in action.

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Follow Friday and Blogger Hop

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Our feature this week is...

Rebecca from Confessions of a Page Turner

Hi fellow book lovers! My name is Rebecca and I am thrilled to be a new member of the book blogging community! I absolutely love sharing with others about reading and so, starting a blog about books seemed like a great way of doing this. Ever since my dad read The Hobbit out loud to my sister and I when we were little, I have loved books and reading. My husband and I currently live in Oklahoma while he finishes up his medical residency. Once he is done, we are excited about our dream of moving to somewhere in New England! I am an aspiring writer and am currently working on two books...a nonfiction book and a novel. My hobbies besides writing and reading include scrapbooking, painting, and knitting. Basically anything that allows me to express my creative side!

Look for a little bit of everything on my book blog :). Variety is the spice of life and I enjoy dabbling in almost every genre, although, fantasy and fiction by women writers are particular favorites. I look forward to getting to know all of you and conversing with you about magical and wonderful books! Happy Reading!

Q. Inspired by the inane twitter trend of #100factsaboutme, give us five BOOK RELATED silly facts about you.

I'm an ADD reader. I am reading like five different books at once.
My physical TBR is now close to 100, yet I continue to purchase books. In fact I just ordered three from amazon right before I did this post
I so like Urban Fantasy over Paranormal Romance, sometimes I want to punch the testosterone prone heroes in the face and call them "little boy"
I read everywhere...in the tub, in the car at stoplights (don't tell the police officers!), in the line at the grocery store and while I'm uploading web sites at work
I've now taken to downloading audio books and keep on increasing my membership at audible.com, I love the 4.95 sales!!!

Now for the Follow Fun!

To join the fun and make now book blogger friends, just follow these simple rules:

(Required) Follow the Follow My Book Blog Friday Host { Parajunkee.com } and any one else you want to follow on the list
(Required) Follow our Featured Bloggers - http://readingwithrebecca.blogspot.com/
Put your Blog name & URL in the Linky thing.
Grab the button up there and place it in a post, this post is for people to find a place to say hi in your comments
Follow Follow Follow as many as you can, as many as you want, or just follow a few. The whole point is to make new friends and find new blogs. Also, don't just follow, comment and say hi. Another blogger might not know you are a new follower if you don't say "HI"
If someone comments and says they are following you, be a dear and follow back. Spread the Love...and the followers
If you're new to the follow Friday hop, comment and let me know, so I can stop by and check out your blog!

Happy Follow Friday!

Follow it up with your twitter address if you want to get that one out!

*********

My answer:

1. My book piles are legendary. Seriously, this is only one.

2. I read at least 6 books at once. Between my bookpile, Ipad, Nook Color and my audio books, I am never without a book in my hand. No, seriously. I even read on my phone. Kind of ADD, right?

3. Goodreads is my favorite book stalking ground. I love the giveaways section for new material to add to my TBR list. I am on there at least 5 times a day. I think it must be an addiction.

4. My headphones were not working on my Ipad a couple of weeks ago, so I literally propped it up on my lap to listen to my audio book to and from work. I was listening to Beth Revis's book Across the Universe and HAD to find out the ending.

5. Books are my friends. I love them and it makes me ill just thinking about getting rid of one. Literally, they are crawling up the wall on my writing desk and taking over my closet. Who needs shoes, right?

Book Blogger Hop: 3/25-3/28

12:00 AM | Thoughts by Jennifer | | Edit Post

Please check out UPDATE #2 at the bottom above the linky before entering your link or you may risk having your entire link removed. Thank you.

Grab the Logo!

In the spirit of the Twitter Friday Follow, the Book Blogger Hop is a place just for book bloggers and readers to connect and share our love of the written word! This weekly BOOK PARTY is an awesome opportunity for book bloggers to connect with other book lovers, make new friends, support each other, and generally just share our love of books! It will also give blog readers a chance to find other book blogs to read! So, grab the logo, post about the Hop on your blog, and start HOPPING through the list of blogs that are posted in the Linky list below!! .Got to http://www.crazy-for-books.com/

The Hop lasts Friday-Monday every week, so if you don't have time to Hop today, come back later and join the fun! This is a weekly event! And stop back throughout the weekend to see all the new blogs that are added! We get over 200 links every week!!

RULES:

Your blog should have content related to books, including, but not limited to book reviews.

1. Enter your book blog link in the Linky List below, including the genre that you review! (On Crazy-for-Books site http://www.crazy-for-books.com/

In your link, please state the main genre that you review: eclectic, contemp. fiction, ya, paranormal, mystery, non-fiction, etc.

Example: Crazy-for-Books (contemp. adult fiction)

2. Post about the Hop on your blog. Spread the word about the book party! The more the merrier! In your blog post, answer the following question (new question each week!).

If you have a suggestion for a future HOP question, click here to fill out the form! Thanks!

This week's question comes from Mina who blogs at Mina Burrows:

"If you could physically put yourself into a book or series…which one would it be and why?"

My answer: I actually have 2 series that I would love to be "in".

The first is the Booktown Mystery series by Lorna Barrett - I mean who wouldn't want to be in a fictional book town? I adore this series and the characters!

Another series I would love to be in, just because I LOVE the characters is the Do-It-Yourself Mysteries by Jennie Bentley:

If you haven't read either of these cozy mystery series, I highly recommend you check them out! Great stories and characters!

3. Visit other blogs in the Linky List! Make new friends! Follow new book bloggers! Talk about books! Rave about authors! Take the time to make a quality visit! Check out other posts and content, make a new friend! Don't randomly follow someone if you never intend on actually following them! No spamming please! (Please do not leave your link and not visit other blogs - it's just not cool and not in the spirit of the Hop!)

And just as an FYI - this event is not something you should feel that you have to participate in every week. If you want to join in and link up once a month, GREAT! It's up to you how often you participate!

So, have fun HOPPING and enjoy your BOOK PARTY weekend!!!UPDATE: THE BOOK BLOGGER HOP DOES NOT ACCEPT TWITTER LINKS! IF YOU LEAVE A TWITTER LINK, IT WILL BE DELETED!!! ONLY YOUR BLOG URL IS ACCEPTED! THANK YOU!

UPDATE #2: Please do not add "AND A GIVEAWAY" to your blog hop link. I've been seeing these a lot lately and up until now I've left them alone. But it's starting to get a bit out of control and I'm going to have to start deleting them if they continue to appear. The Hop isn't to advertise your giveaways. It's a place for us to explore and find new blogs we may be interested in following, not to promote our giveaways. There are several sites out there that have Giveaway Hops, but this is not one of them. Unfortunately if I continue to see the links, I will have to delete them. I hate to start having to "police" the hop, but I want to bring it back to its original state. Thank you for understanding.

My answer:

I figured since we are sort of talking crochet and knitting, that I would choose these. Love them both and working on the cupcake scarf still. Made some progress today on the cupcake bottoms.

Thanks for stopping by on the Hop. What books would you like to fall into?

You Tube-How to Crochet a Flower

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In my mailbox.

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These books are from the publisher for review. Punch needle, knitting and crochet.

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Follow Friday and Blogger Hop

2011-03-18T01:05:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the Blog Hop!

Happy Follow Friday everyone! Let me tell you a little bit about this HOP. Every Friday or really Thursday evening we all get together and say HI! But, we need to know how to find you, so please your link in the Mr. Linky below. Also on Follow Friday we have a Feature...because alliteration is the way we roll. Each week is a different feature from the book blogging community. They are picked randomly or I give in after multiple harassing emails. Just depends on the week. If you want to be next weeks feature...leave your link. Also, I've had a recent rash of people signing up on the linky weeks later, which sort of defeats the purpose. If you want to participate check back here on the next Friday!

Our feature this week is...

Jess from Gone With the Words

Hi everyone! I’m Jess and I’m behind the “Gone with the Words” blog! I haven’t always been a reader, I was in Middle School (or Junior High to some of you), but lost interest in High School. It all changed in 2009 when I bought Twilight....and read it in a matter of hours. I then scrambled to get my hands on the rest of the series and didn’t leave my house all weekend. The rest is history. I was in love with books once again.

After reading about 200 books last year alone I decided to begin a blog where I could talk about them. Thus, Gone with the Words was born in January. At that time it wasn’t called that though, it was called “Read? Don’t Mind if I Do...” but wasn’t in love with that name. So I held a poll that included names suggested by other bloggers and Twitter friends, and that’s how I got the name for my blog. As for which genres I like, it’s evolving the more I read. I love Paranormal/Fantasy & Contemporary YA and Romance the most though. I also really like Urban Fantasy. If it’s a series, that’s even better.

Q. How did you come up with your blog name?

Mine is rather stupid. You see I tend to be that person that stuffs things together to make new and interesting things. Or just silly names - which seems to be trendy for the last decade especially with celeb names. So like, I was trying to choose what I wanted to be when I grew up and I said to myself:

"Well I like computers. Total computer dork. And I like art. So that makes me...the perfect Computer Graphic Designer!" That was random, but true.

How does this translate to a name...well I like paranormal stuff and I'm a book junkie, so...I shortened it changed the ie to ee...just for shits and giggles and viola' Parajunkee as a handle. Tack on the View because of course the blog is my opinion and there you have it. Parajunkee's View.

Now for the Follow Fun!

To join the fun and make now book blogger friends, just follow these simple rules:

(Required) Follow the Follow My Book Blog Friday Host { Parajunkee.com } and any one else you want to follow on the list
(Required) Follow our Featured Bloggers - http://bookaholicdoesblogging.blogspot.com
Put your Blog name & URL in the Linky thing.
Grab the button up there and place it in a post, this post is for people to find a place to say hi in your comments
Follow Follow Follow as many as you can, as many as you want, or just follow a few. The whole point is to make new friends and find new blogs. Also, don't just follow, comment and say hi. Another blogger might not know you are a new follower if you don't say "HI"
If someone comments and says they are following you, be a dear and follow back. Spread the Love...and the followers
If you're new to the follow Friday hop, comment and let me know, so I can stop by and check out your blog!

Happy Follow Friday!

Follow it up with your twitter address if you want to get that one out!

*********

My answer:

This blog was born out of a couple of reasons. I need to be writing my book. Yes. That is a given. But, for sanity and the safety of the rest of the world, I must also knit and now crochet. Really. A woman with a set of knitting needles is armed, people. Just remember that. A happy knitter is one who will not generally stab you in the eye. Mostly. So, I write about knitting books, patterns and cute crochet. It is my contribution to world peace.

Your blog should have content related to books, including, but not limited to book reviews.

1. Enter your book blog link in the Linky List below

In your link, please state the main genre that you review: eclectic, contemp. fiction, ya, paranormal, mystery, non-fiction, etc.

Example: Crazy-for-Books (contemp. adult fiction)

2. Post about the Hop on your blog. Spread the word about the book party! The more the merrier! In your blog post, answer the following question (new question each week!).

If you have a suggestion for a future HOP question, go to http://www.crazy-for-books.com/! Thanks!

This week's question comes from Somer who blogs at A Bird's Eye Review (her blog design is ADORABLE - check it out!):

"Do you read only one book at a time, or do you have several going at once?"

My answer: In the days before my Nook, I would typically only read one book at a time. Since I've acquired an e-reader, I typically have 2 books going at once - one on the e-reader that I can throw in the purse or take to the gym - and one in paper that I read at home. Right now, I have 3 books going which is CRAZY for me - 1 book on the Nook, 1 book in PDF on my Netbook, and 1 book in paper!

So, have fun HOPPING and enjoy your BOOK PARTY weekend!!!

My answer:

I have several books going at once. Usually one for each blog. Well, at least one. My YA blog is the heaviest right now with a mermaid series going on and some other books I am reviewing on a deadline. If I could strap on a futuristic device that let me read in my sleep, I would do it. For me, it is paper books, PDFs on my IPad and e-books on the Nook Color. Oh, and audio books too!UPDATE: THE BOOK BLOGGER HOP DOES NOT ACCEPT TWITTER LINKS! IF YOU LEAVE A TWITTER LINK, IT WILL BE DELETED!!! ONLY YOUR BLOG URL IS ACCEPTED! THANK YOU

Fun and Fang

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I found this site today while I was poking around the internet. If you want something cute and scary, pop over to this blog and the shop on etsy. I love the bat.

http://funandfang.blogspot.com/

Blogger Hop and Follow Friday

2011-03-10T22:44:00.001-06:00

Let's face it. We all love to read. Old books or new, I love them all. Give me a knitting book or something to do with crochet and I will be good for weeks. Welcome to another Follow Friday and Blog Hop, where book minded people drop by to say hello. I hope you stay a moment and give a comment or two. Tell me what your favorite book is. What are you reading now? If you are into knitting or crochet, what is your current project? I am working on a cupcake scarf. So far, the debate is on over who is smarter.

Featured blog of the week:

Check out more information at: http://www.parajunkee.com/

Question of the week:

Who are you "the person" as opposed to you "the blogger"?

My answer:

I am a Merchandise Manager at a very high volume B&N store. It is a full time job and then some, but I love it. When I am not at work, I am a dog mom (dog slave) to 9 rescue dogs, 4 finches, 1 fish and 1 lizard. I am also a wife to my wonderful husband of almost seventeen years. When I am not keeping up with all of that, I am working on two YA novels, learning to knit and crochet and attempting to resurrect my exercise bike from underneath a pile of laundry. Most days I wish I had a maid. Some days I actually get to watch parts of a movie when I run past the TV. Go figure.

So yes, I have mastered the art of blogging and writing my books while getting my time in on the exercise bike (there is this awesome shelf on the bike), nuking dinner while rolling my hair in granny rollers and getting my husband's jeans ready in time for him to wear them to work when I get up at 4am to be at work before 7am. I blog over Cheerios. I read everywhere. Audio books are my friend. I need a tool belt for all of my electronic gadgets. Android phone. IPad. Nook Color.

Life is never dull. My life as a blogger started last fall. Social media in general started last April. I love it. Never have a felt more connected with book lovers and friends all over the globe. My job as a bookseller and the life of a book blogger mesh perfectly. I get to talk about books day in and day out. What could be better than that?

So, now I have five blogs with differing subject matter, and am toying around with an idea for a sixth. But, to my husband's very real point, I need to get my books written. So, cross that New Year's resolution with the exercise bike that is staring me in the face and you have a woman that can really multitask. Now, where is that coffee?

Your blog should have content related to books, including, but not limited to book reviews.

1. Enter your book blog link in the Linky List on the host site.

In your link, please state the main genre that you review: eclectic, contemp. fiction, ya, paranormal, mystery, non-fiction, etc.

Example: Crazy-for-Books (contemp. adult fiction)

2. Post about the Hop on your blog. Spread the word about the book party! The more the merrier! In your blog post, answer the following question (new question each week!).

This week's question comes from Ellie who blogs at Musings of a Bookshop Girl:

"If I gave you £50 (or $80) and sent you into a bookshop right now, what would be in your basket when you finally staggered to the till?"

My answer:

Wow. I think I would take half of the YA section with me. Probably the new book Zombie Autopsies also. It looks like a hoot. Steel, Darkest Mercy, Vespertine...those are all on my list. I would also love to run through the crochet and knitting books, just grabbing what ever my little heart desired. So, yes. That $80. Poof. Gone. A fleeting memory. Once the book lust gets me. I am toast. (Like in the Twinkie Chan book-toast scarf! Ha!)

Anyhow! Great to see you back and for all of you new followers, glad to have you join us. Follow along for some hints on new books and tidbits I find all over the net. Happy Follow Friday!

Amigurumi Patterns to make you smile...

2011-03-10T15:59:00.000-06:00

Today while I was searching around for things to show you, I came across this excellent site with all kinds of free crochet patterns. http://kandjdolls.blogspot.com/

These dolls are so cute. Pop on over to their website for information on how to make them. There are even more to choose from. I will be visiting this site again!

Little Mermaid, free Amigurumi crochet pattern

2011-03-10T15:57:00.000-06:00

Little Mermaid, free Amigurumi crochet pattern

In conjunction with my mermaid series on my YA blog, http://danasyabookpile.blogspot.com/ I wanted to share with you a cute mermaid crochet doll I found while hunting around today. Very cute! Just hop over to the site for directions. This is a sister article to one I am about to put up. The blog where I found this adorable pattern is: http://kandjdolls.blogspot.com/ Check it out!

Follow Friday and Blogger Hop

2011-03-04T05:25:00.001-06:00

Yay! It is time for Follow Friday and Book Blogger Hop! Hello to my returning friends and followers and a warm welcome to any new guests. It is wonderful to have you. I hope you will stay a moment and leave some comment love.

Our two host sites are:

http://www.parajunkee.com/
http://crazy-for-books.com/

Pop on over to find out more about this week's featured blog and to add your name to the linky list if you want to participate.

In the spirit of the Twitter Friday Follow, the Book Blogger Hop is a place just for book bloggers and readers to connect and share our love of the written word! This weekly BOOK PARTY is an awesome opportunity for book bloggers to connect with other book lovers, make new friends, support each other, and generally just share our love of books! It will also give blog readers a chance to find other book blogs to read! So, grab the logo, post about the Hop on your blog, and start HOPPING.

The Hop lasts Friday-Monday every week, so if you don't have time to Hop today, come back later and join the fun! This is a weekly event! And stop back throughout the weekend to see all the new blogs that are added! We get over 200 links every week!!
RULES:

Your blog should have content related to books, including, but not limited to book reviews.

1. Enter your book blog link in the Linky List below

In your link, please state the main genre that you review: eclectic, contemp. fiction, ya, paranormal, mystery, non-fiction, etc.

Example: Crazy-for-Books (contemp. adult fiction)

2. Post about the Hop on your blog. Spread the word about the book party! The more the merrier! In your blog post, answer the following question (new question each week!).

This week's question comes from Mia who blogs at Girl About Books:

"Who's your all-time favorite book villain?"

Mine has to be the girl from Let Me In. She may have the unfortunate habit of dining on her fellow apartment complex neighbors, but she loves the boy and rescues him from the bullies that torment him. They love each other when no one else does. Can't beat that. Despite everything, I was rooting for them to be together in the end.

Who would you pick?

Late breaking question for everyone:

What embarrassing thing have you done on cold medicine?

If you want my answer, pop over to Http://bookgirlinthekitchen.blogspot.com/ Please don't make me write it again.

A Knitting Wrapsody

2011-03-03T15:48:00.000-06:00

Designer Kristin Omdahl is one of the most innovative designers working today, and in this collection, she showcases her signature motif designs and experimental construction in 18 original patterns—five scarves, six wraps, five shawls, and two skirts—that provide new ways to think about knitting pieces that wrap, drape, or tie.
Unlike other wrap books, this collection offers ingenious ways for wrapping your knitting, whether around the neck, shoulders, or waist. The designs for these garments are just what you've been waiting for—inspirational, creative patterns that advance your skills, explore shape and silhouette, and are beautiful to wear year-round.
All of the garments incorporate interesting elements, from reversible stitch patterns and unique knitted edgings to interesting closures. Each project is knitted, but much of the aesthetic draws inspiration from the geometry, motifs, and techniques of crochet.
Some of the techniques are quite unusual and the enclosed DVD will demonstrate them in-depth before you cast on for a project.
With her passionate attention to stitch detail and one-of-a-kind motif designs, Kristin offers a wide range of projects in A Knitting Wrapsody for a variety of skill levels and time commitments. Expand your wardrobe with bold, stylish shapes and add form-flattering pieces perfect for layering. (Goodreads)

I recieved this book in the mail from the publisher this week. When I opened it and started looking at the projects, I just squealed! Oh wow. They are inventive and gorgous. They make me want to pick up my needles right this second and start one. I have to finish my current project first.

Will keep you all posted with updates when I do get started on one. But until then, check it out! If your local bookstore doesn't have it in stock yet, order it. It will be worth the wait.

Follow Friday and Blogger Hop

2011-02-25T00:36:00.000-06:00

Hello fellow knitters. Today we are participating in the Follow Friday Blogger Hop. If you are a blogger, pop over to the sites of our two hosts. Http://www.crazy-for-books.com/ and Http://www.parajunkee.com/ to find out more about the featured blog of the week.

Questions for this week:

What is your favorite TV show?

Do you like the name of your blog?

Let me start with the first one.

Currently, this is my favorite show that is on the air. I also love Dexter and The Walking Dead. Hawaii 5.0 is great too.

The name of this blog was a tough one. I think sometimes I wish I had chosen something a little shorter. You never realize how long it is until you have to write it several times for publishers or to enter it in linky lists for memes like this one. :)

Still, I am very glad that this blog is here. I love to meet with all of you and share my love of knitting and crochet. The more I do it, the better I am getting and the more fun it is.

Thanks for stopping by and I hope you will stay a moment to leave a comment or two.

Best in knitting,

Dana

In my mailbox this week.

2011-02-25T00:23:00.000-06:00

Includes 20 patterns for the most adorable monsters. Each stuffie comes with instructions and how-to photos, and is as easy to knit as a hat. All are shown in two colorways, and most done in two weights, to pick the perfect yarn for their monster's personality.(Goodreads)

This book looks great with it's cute mini monsters. I can't wait to try my hand at some monster knitting!

Crochet symbols

2011-02-18T07:58:00.000-06:00

I don't know about you, but that just gives me hives. Really. I am learning to crochet, but the thought of evening trying to figure that out gives me a full on migraine. But, I may have found us all a splendid solution. No, it doesn't include flinging your crochet hook across the room and hiding under the closest quilt. Nope. Just head over to this wonderful site- http://www.grannys-garret.com/symbol and she has a great tutorial to help all of us learn how to read these daunting instructions.

There are lots of other bits of helpful info too. :) A regular treasure trove. So check it out! You will love it!

Best,

Dana

My first pink cupcake.

2011-02-18T07:13:00.002-06:00

I have started making my first cupcake scarf. Happily, I was able to go to knitting class yesterday and the extremely wonderful Mary Sikes helped me work my way through the directions for the pink frosting part of the cupcake. Now I have to make 18 of them. I can do it! Then I have the bottom part of the cupcake and the cherries to go on top. Maybe some sprinkles too. Hmmm. This will be fun. Between this and the Ami Ami Dogs, I should be set for cuteness. :) Will keep you posted on the progress.

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Ami Ami Dogs

2011-02-18T07:11:00.000-06:00

This is one of the newest books I have had to sacrifice my coffee money for. Let me tell you, it was worth it. These little cuties are so adorable! Single crochet most of the way and on the tiniest hook. I am testing my beginner crochet skills to make something in 3-d, but can't wait to finish one so I can show you how it looks. There will be four books in this series. This is the first one.

Follow Friday and Blogger Hop

2011-02-17T23:12:00.001-06:00

Good evening everyone. Welcome to another Follow Friday. The featured blog on this week's Follow Friday is:

To find out more, visit our hostess's blog: http://www.parajunkee.com/ and also pop over to http://www.crazy-for-books.com/ to meet some other excellent bloggers. I love Follow Fridays. The perfect opportunity to meet some new book loving friends.

Question of the week:

Have you ever read science fiction? If so, what is your favorite book? To see my answer, visit my main blog:

http://bookgirlknitting.blogspot.com/

Thanks for stopping by. Please leave a comment and share some love. Hope you become a follower and come and visit once and awhile. Tell me what you are reading and what project you are working on.

Best,

Dana

A Beautiful Mess features Twinkie Chan and some really sparkly crochet hooks

2011-02-10T16:14:00.000-06:00

If you want a fun project, head over to A Beautiful Mess for a visit with the amazing Twinkie Chan and her sparkling crochet hooks. http://abeautifulmess.typepad.com/

So much fun and sparkly!!!

Twinkie Chan visits Cupcakes Take the Cake

2011-02-10T15:27:00.000-06:00

http://cupcakestakethecake.blogspot.com/

Twinkie Chan

I came across this amazing designer today on the Cupcakes Take the Cake blog and just fell in love with her work. Cupcakes!!!! Click on her name above to get the complete article.

Which one is your favorite? I am having trouble deciding.

A coffee warmer. Awesome!!!

If you want to know more about this amazing crochet artist, check her out on Twitter, Facebook and her website and blog. Click the link above for the original article from the wonderful Cupcakes Take the Cake.
http://cupcakestakethecake.blogspot.com/ She has a new book out and a shop on Etsy. Her designs are original and fun. The perfect way to make a dull winter's day fun. I want to make the cupcake scarf!

Judy's scarf.

2011-01-29T18:20:00.001-06:00

I may have been mostly out of commission for the last few days, but I did manage to finally finish my wonderful friend Judy's scarf.

This scarf was designed to have one part crazy with color dots and the other with plain black eyelash yarn combined with the blue. It will be a fun edition to her wardrobe and I hope she enjoys it for years to come.

The pattern is:

Pick the appropriate needles for the kind of yarn you have. I used size 19.

Knit three rows.
The next row is knit, yarn over twice until the end of the row.
The next row you knit across. Releasing the two yarn overs.
Knit three more rows. Repeat.
Bind off and secure ends. Add fringe if you like.

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A picture to make you smile...

2011-01-29T00:39:00.000-06:00

Tonight I am home sick with bronchitis yet again, but had the wonderful joy of actually sitting on the couch with two of my puppies and working on a scarf for a friend. With my hectic life, the best knitting time I usually get is piled up against the pillows of my bed with my audio books playing and Tadpole (my smallest puppy) curled up beside me. It was nice to be surrounded on all sides by my furry brood. Of course, this didn't last long, but I got a few rows in.

Off to sleep now. The cough medicine is kicking in. Good night all.

Handmade beauty by Elvi: Cell phone case / small purse "Montmartre Violets"...

2011-01-28T13:10:00.000-06:00

Handmade beauty by Elvi: Cell phone case / small purse "Montmartre Violets"...

This lady can crochet. Check out the amazing work she does on the link above.

Library Issues & Taking Action

2011-01-27T14:52:00.000-06:00

Library Issues & Taking Action

My knitting class is at the library. Since I have been going to my local branch, now almost a year, I have made many friends and learned so much about how the library has changed. That doesn't even count what I have learned from all the wonderful women in my knitting class. Each of them brings a font of knowledge and I appreciate each and every one of them.

Budget cuts are pending for the libraries here in Texas. I am asking everyone to really think about all the wonderful things that your library does for you and your community. If you can send emails to support keeping the budget intact, please do. Click on the link above and please tell your Representative to save our libraries. You never know when you might need one.

The Left Side of Crochet: Cupcake Bookmark

2011-01-09T17:30:00.000-06:00

The Left Side of Crochet: Cupcake Bookmark

Check out this adorable bookmark!

Possum love

2011-01-06T17:27:00.000-06:00

Possum love

I have never seen a cuter thing than this. Click on the link above to check out the pattern and comparisons between the knit and crochet version.

Wreaths for Christmas

2011-01-04T06:04:00.001-06:00

I think my favorite quick project from this holiday season were these simple crochet wreaths.

To crochet:

Use h hook or hook appropriate for the size of yarn you will be using. Chain 6 to 8. Join and chain 2. Double or triple crochet into the ring. Spread out as you go. Continue until your ends meet. Join with slip stitch into one of the chains. Tuck in ends and add pin back, beads and bows.

Hope this gives you an idea for next year. Happy New Year!

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Frantic Knitter's Follow Friday

2010-12-31T14:04:00.000-06:00

http://parajunkee.com/

Hello all you fabulous knitters and crochet artists out there. I hope you all survived your holidays with fingers and thumbs intact, and that no one jabbed out anyone's eye with a knitting needle. I myself have been sorely tempted on more that one occasion.

Follow along if you want to join the linky list. If not, just leave me a comment and a follow. I love meeting new people of like mind, especially fellow knitters and crocheters.

Happy New Year everyone!

Fa la la la Follow Friday...

2010-12-24T01:09:00.000-06:00

http://parajunkee.com/

Good morning and I hope this finds your Christmas Eve to be Merry and bright. I am taking a break from knitting flowers and crocheting little wreaths to bid you a Merry Christmas and a Happy Follow Friday.

Question of the week:
What are you going to do on this wonderful holiday? Did you make any special projects this year for your family? I myself have learned to make wreaths and holly.

I am going to my knitting teacher's house for a wonderful dinner. In preparation, my husband and I will be making a Chocolate Blackout Cake, a tossed salad and a corn souffle.

Well, off to get a bit of sleep before I am due back at the bookstore.

Merry Christmas everyone!

Sunday Blog Hop

2010-12-12T05:50:00.000-06:00

http://crazy-for-books.com/

It's Sunday and better late than never for our weekend blog hop. Just jump on everyone. Click the link to list your book blog and leave a comment and a follow. I love meeting new people!

Question of the week:

Why do you like book blogs? Free stuff? Reviews? Tell all.

Hope this finds you having a great weekend! I am off to another crazy day at the bookstore. Have a wonderful day!

Follow Friday with some snowflakes!

2010-12-10T00:39:00.000-06:00

http://parajunkee.com/
http://snowcatcher.blogspot.com/

Good evening fellow crafters and book lovers. It is Follow Friday and I have found a great blog that totally fits the holiday season. Snowcatcher has a great selection of snowflakes that make me want to get my hook and start learning! Great job on an awesome blog.

Please leave a comment with the name of your blog, so fellow crafters can find you. If you do book reviews, please leave your name on the linky with Parajunkee above. Just click the link and it will take you to her site. It is primarily fiction and paranormal, but if you are a book reviewer, you can enter the linky.

Question of the week:
Is there an author that you think is really great that you feel is under appreciated? Who and why? I would love to hear from you. Leave a comment and share some love. Even better...become a follower.

Crochet wreaths.

2010-12-08T10:00:00.001-06:00

This time of year us my favorite for making small homemade gifts to share. These crochet wreaths I learned in knitting class are perfect.

Chain 4-10, depending on how large you want the wreath pin to be. Slip stitch to join and make double or triple crochets all the way around the chain, going through the center hole. Pull and space your stitches. When you get to the end, slip stitch to join, tuck in your yarn tails, add bows, beads and hot glue a pin back onto it. Done! Only takes a few minutes and you have a heartwarming gift to share with a friend.

Merry Christmas everyone!

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New knitting book.

2010-12-08T09:54:00.001-06:00

I love Christmas parties where you do gift exchanges on a theme. Thus year, my knitting class/group had a wonderful holiday party and I got a great book on circular knitting. What a perfect gift. With all the different patterns and knowledge about circular knitting, I was thrilled.

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An attempt at speedy crochet...

2010-11-28T05:59:00.001-06:00

I have until Saturday to get a few quick gifts made. Looking through this great book, I spotted a holly leaf with berries that looked nice. Only problem, it's crochet. Why is this a problem? I am still a remedial crocheter. So I am going to try and learn this cute little pattern tonight after I finish putting up my new prelit Christmas tree. Wish me luck!

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The flower scarf is finished!

2010-11-27T18:33:00.001-06:00

This scarf has a history. It was originally a commission piece for a young man at work. I was learning my purls, so it took me awhile to get it right. A few stops, many new starts that resulted from ripping it out at least twice, I finally got it. Or so I thought.

I ran out of yarn. The horror of it all. I searched for a match, but this color was not am easy match. By this time, the young man in question had bought a scarf at the mall, so I was on my own with this scarf from what I thought at the time was Hell.

What do I do with this thing that has taken over my life and tested my sanity for weeks. Improvise!

I found a beautiful multi toned color that a friend gave to me, and it worked out great!

Then the flowers. The first one was easy. The second, third and fourth were back in that southerly region we were discussing previously. The easiest pattern in the whole book and guess who gets a mental block. Jeez.

Well, today all the pieces finally got put together, stitched, beaded and with a great big Woo Hoo, I did the dance. You know the one I mean. I was done. Yes!!! Arm pump!

Now I have a week to knit for Christmas. Pray for me.

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Welcome to the Hop!

2010-11-26T11:27:00.000-06:00

http://www.crazy-for-books.com/

Good morning fellow knitters and friends. It is time for our first Blog Hop. Just click on the link and add your blog to the linky if you have one. If not, I would love more followers and fun comments. Please join me.

My question of the week:

Did you cook for Thanksgiving and what was your kitchen mishap?
Check out my sister blog for deets on my own kitchen horror. (http://bookgirlinthekitchen.blogspot.com/)

A great book for quick projects!

2010-11-26T09:31:00.000-06:00

This is the book I am using for my newest scarf project. It is a great source for quick gift ideas, whether you are using luxury yarn or $3.69 at Hobby Lobby (yes, me). I am a budget girl most of the time, but pinching my pennies to get this book was worth it. Some really amazing things, especially for this time of year when we are all trying to get those last minute holiday gifts done. 5 out 5 ladies. It is a keeper.

New project...

2010-11-26T09:13:00.001-06:00

Hello fellow knitters. Today the temperature dropped like a rock. It started last night, but today it is cold and rainy. Perfect weather to stay in bed and knit something warm and wonderful.

I am starting a new scarf pattern from Luxury Yarn One-Skein Wonders. It is the pattern called Boise Cashmere Scarf. I am using I Love This Yarn #98 Dark Denim.

So far the lace look is starting to come through. Will keep you updated with progress.

Hope you all had a safe and happy Thanksgiving.

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A book for the artful crocheter...

2010-11-21T04:59:00.000-06:00

Crochet So Fine was sent to me by the publisher for a fair and honest review. It was gorgeous. The designs in this book made me drool and want to get better at crochet so I could tackle one now. Lacy patterns have always caught my eye, and this one is one of the loveliest I have seen. I highly recommend it.

Book Eternity: Oogie a dog only a family could love Review and Gi...

2010-11-07T23:04:00.000-06:00

Book Eternity: Oogie a dog only a family could love Review and Gi...: "If you are an animal lover you'll simply adore this book,I own 4 dogs and just couldn't put this book down, but since I have other occupati..."

2010-11-05T05:51:00.000-05:00

http://www.parajunkee.com/

Good morning and happy Friday everyone. We are introducing a new blog following program started by Parajunkee.com. Follow Friday is a great way to find new blogs to visit. It helps to support fellow bloggers. So, leave me a comment about who you are following, click the link above and maybe leave your blog so you will be featured one of these Fridays.

This week's pic is:

http://www.bibliophilicbookblog.com/

If you love knitting and crocheting flowers, check these books out!

2010-10-28T14:54:00.000-05:00

These two books are the perfect way to learn some new techniques in flower making, or just new knitting or crochet techniques. I have made two of the knitted flowers and one in the crochet collection. I am learning more as we speak. What fun. I get comments every time I wear one. Check out the red and pink knitted flower pictures further down in the blog for an illustration.

More fun to distract me from writing.

2010-10-28T14:45:00.000-05:00

There is a wonderful new dessert book out there that has caused me some extreme distraction lately. Classic Houston Desserts by Erin Hicks Miller is out just in time for the holidays. Recently, she had a book release party at the Backstreet Cafe here in Houston, TX. I have to tell you the food was great. Here is me with the mushroom soup, having more fun than a person should have at one sitting. Amazing soup! Even more amazing desserts from the book. Check it out on my sister blog, Book Girl Knitting (http://bookgirlknitting.blogspot.com/) and think about who would love this book for the holidays.

Beautiful batik quilts.

2010-10-18T22:53:00.000-05:00

I received this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair review.
The colors of this book drew me in from the start. I love the combinations of the batik designs. The photography from Bali adds depth to the story behind the quilts. It brings to life the culture and majesty of this land that is rich in tradition and craftsmanship.
Pamela Mostek was asked to give a textile tour to Bali. So she brought her traveling companion Susan Nelsen with her and the rest is history.
Follow Pamela and Susan as they talk about the weaving methods used to create the unique batik patters.
There are eight gorgeous patterns to delight quilters of all levels of skill. A keeper for my library shelf.

My rating is 5 out of 5.

A simple sewing method for quilting vibrant precut quilts.

2010-10-18T22:33:00.000-05:00

This book has 12 different quilts in a variety of sizes. The fabrics are bright and there is something for everyone, from beginners to advanced. There are shortcuts to make learning to quilt easy. On page 8, there is a section for special methods to save time, and to help with color groupings.
Good book for learning to quilt.

This book was sent to me for an honest review. Rating: 4 out of 5.

Stitching some Halloween fun!

2010-10-13T00:21:00.000-05:00

Halloween Stitching!

3 Stitches in Spring, TX has a great selection of fibers, linen and buttons. Check this one out for some Halloween fun. It is one of my favorite stitched pieces.www.3stitches.com/

2010-10-13T00:14:00.000-05:00

This is one of my favorite stitched pieces. My office upstairs is done with a monster theme. So inspiring for my paranormal YA novel in progress.

The chart for this can be purchased at 3 Stitches Needlework shop in Spring, TX.

Cables

2010-10-12T23:55:00.000-05:00

So my knitting class instructor surprised me one day and told me we were going to try cables. I had always wanted to try it, but frankly it scared me to death. It looks so hard! Strangely enough, I did it! The pic to the left is my humble attempt to follow the directions. Success! My knitting teacher (Rhonda Brewer you rock!) is the best ever. So patient. I think she should be nominated for sainthood. Patron saint of freaked out knitters everywhere.

Part of the humor in this situation is she taught me to cable with a hot roller clip. You know, the metal clip that holds the roller on your head? Yep. That would be it. No cable needles for me. It worked too. Not heavy at all and you just flop the clip to the side to work the cable. Love it.

Has anyone got any other cable hints for my next project? Would love to hear them. :)

2010-10-02T16:06:00.000-05:00

Learning to knit has been an adventure. From this great pattern from The Hen House in Spring, Texas, to my class at the Tomball Library every Thursday morning.

Knots.

2010-10-01T00:00:00.000-05:00

I hate knotted yarn. Black knotted yarn especially. It is moments like these where I really have to wonder about that whole knitting so I don't kill people thing. Black knotty yarn that sticks together is definitely not therapy. It is a sanity reducing mess. Grrr.

Welcome to my blog.

2010-09-22T16:02:00.000-05:00

Add caption

I am a writer. I also manage to find a million things to do other than actually finishing my book. Knitting is one of the latest. It helps me keep my sanity.