Crochet Queen: Royal Ramblings

I've Been to Hell and Back!

2012-01-25T18:14:00.001-06:00

Wednesday, January 25, 2012 As they say, computers are like husbands: you can't live with them but you sure can't live without them! Since my email was hacked on Jan. 6, I have had a non-stop challenge to get back to working order. I've had so many calls to ATT and Yahoo, that I now recognized the customer service agents' voices! I have learned to work the system and request to be connected to "Tier 2" support because I know I will need it! I still have one minor issue to resolve, but basically, I am back in working order. I pride myself as someone who is pretty computer savvy and if not, willing to learn. For my age, I think I have come quite a long way. That is probably the one benefit of this whole fiasco: I have learned a lot! During the many occasions while I was kept waiting for an ATT agent to answer my call, I was not grinding my teeth or biting my nails. Crochet is my sanity, but by now you know that! Yes, of course, I was crocheting while waiting in line for an agent! Not only have I been to "hell" and back this month, but to Florida and back with my darling girls and Prince Jack as well. Sweet Nicole arranged for my dear friend, Cindy to travel across the state from Plantation to surprise me. What a bonus it was on top of a wonderful get away!

This month has been very busy on the teaching front for me. Last Sat. I started a 3-part series at a bead store. We started with crochet for beaders

Beginning Crochet Coin Purse and it still amazes me as to how little crocheters who say they know how to crochet know!! Two-hours of awkward struggling and as the shop owner said, we had a remedial corner for slow learners. I think the light bulb went on toward the end of the session and they promised to practice! I really look forward to part 2 when I will teach them bead crochet. I am so enamored with beads, I want everyone to love it. This week I embarked on a two-part class for kids

The book I co-authored: Kids Can Do It Crocheting It was at a private school and during this week which they call J-Term, the kids have an opportunity to experience things that they might otherwise not get to experience. I was told that crochet was very well received and that the allotted spaces filled up quickly. The teacher was amazed at how they took practice to heart after the first lesson. On day 2 they returned with greatly improved skills and even began to add their own creative touches to what I was teaching them. Their age, 7th graders, had a lot to do with this. Their motor skills are sufficiently developed that they caught on well. The culture of the school had a big influence too. It is a very nurturing environment and I am sure their confidence comes from being led by supportive encouragement. The room mom bought my book to donate to the school library. Eighteen new crocheters were born into the world this week (17 girls and one lone, brave boy). I am happily confident that I will be invited back for the next J-Term. Here's what I got done while hanging on the phone with ATT, so it's not all bad!:

My Holiday Season

2012-01-08T15:17:00.002-06:00

Sunday, January 8, 2012It's time to blog, but where do I begin. My holiday season was interesting, to say the least. From the joys of preparing for the arrival of the whole family and the grandchildren's visit to the downside of having their little germ-infested entities in my space!

They look innocent, don't they? My spirits were buoyed by my honor of being named Awesome Crochet Blog: Free Form Crochet as I lay as a very bland sickie thinking of all I could be doing if I didn't have the stomach flu!!Held together with duct tape and string, I was able to enjoy New Year's Eve with hubby Alan and dear friend Gerry. We went to a Second City performance, "Christmas in the Heights" and laughed ourselves silly! I ate lightly afterwards; it was a strange New year's feast but so be it. Practicality first! Just as I was getting back my appetite, a delightful gift of Fannie Mae Pixies arrived and I was back in the business of eating!We enjoyed our free time and had fun going to several movies. The time wasn't without its pressures with 3 article deadlines looming. Be watching in the Spring for my article on "drape" in Inside Crochet magazine. My article for Talking Crochet e-newsletter was due Dec. 9 and the January issue, currently available, went live on Jan.3. All the while, I was working on my issue of the CGOA chapter newsletter too. January is shaping up to be a good teaching month. I'll be teaching 3 sessions at a bead store: beginning crochet

Bead-Crochet

and Wire Wonders: Crocheting with Wire Later in the month, I'll be birthing some new kid crocheters into the world with two sessions of beginning crochet at a middle school. Thanks to my presence out there on the web, these opportunities came my way!Through it all, my crocheting continued....I enjoyed making gifts for friends and family and stitched between the trays of cookies going in and out of the oven.

I made leg warmers for younger daughter, Bethany and have been consistently progressing through an afghan project requested by older daughter, Nicole. It's a joy to be able to make gifts that people appreciate!I've said that I hope that I don't freeze to death before we can get to Mexico in mid-February because we haven't had to endure a Chicago January in years. We've been spared and have thoroughly enjoyed the temperature consistently in the forties and fifties. Each day with a decent temperature gets us just that much closer to our winter get-away! On top of that, I'm leaving at the end of this week for a girl's get-away with my daughters to Florida!! Yay, very excited and we haven't had a chance to do this in a few years. We'll be accompanied by little prince, Jack, and we are leaving Chloe with her daddy!

2011 Awesome Crochet Blog: Free Form Crochet

2011-12-23T11:51:00.000-06:00

December 23, 2011In case I don't get to blog on my regular blogging schedule on Monday what with having the family and grandkids here and all the eating we will have to be doing, I shall post my pre-Christmas joy today! I was awarded the 2011 Awesome Crochet Blogs Award for Freeform Crochet by Kathryn of Crochet Concupiscence.

Kathryn, You said in your write-up that I am "friendly," but you are a sweetheart. You offer so much in your blog and yet you are always so appreciative and giving to others. I really appreciate this award and am honored to receive it from you! Stay tuned...I am very excited about another free form project I have in the works. This award has giving me a spark of inspiration to make it my best yet! Thanks again and have the happiest holiday ever!Read about the winners in other Awesome Blog categories:

Me Gifts for Me!

2011-12-19T16:18:00.001-06:00

Monday, December 19, 2011Christmas has come early!! Three new books have been added to my library. It seems my friend Josie in NYC likes to touch and feel books! She orders them and then if she doesn't think she'll ever crochet anything from them, she kindly sends them on to me. Thus I acquired Crochet So Fine by Kristin Omdahl and Creating Crochet Fabric by Dora Ohrenstein. Both are lovely books and I might just have to make the honeycomb neck warmer in Kristin's book RIGHT NOW!

Or maybe it would be a good idea to finish the cowl that I have on my designer's drawing board!It only uses one skein so should be quick. Dora's book is a masterful tome about all aspects of crochet. She has put a lot of work and study into the information she offers. It is a must have for any crocheter's shelf. Last week I bought a funky little book at Half-Price books: Downtown DIY Crochet: 14 easy designs for city girls with style.This book is cleverly put together with drawings instead of elaborate photographs. The art and the simple projects will surely attract new and young crocheters, as well as collectors such as I!

Now to the real gift. When hubby asked me what I wanted for Christmas, I had to think a while. Suddenly, I remembered that I have been wanting a ceramic yarn bowl. I have lyally been waiting for a certain ceramic artist to get his bowls produced and put on Etsy, but hey enough of the waiting. I went exploring there at Etsy and wow, or wow are there yarn bowls!! It was very difficult to decide,but I chose a gorgeous one by Marietta at Blue Room Pottery. I'll post a photo when I get it.

Apparently the holiday demand has depleted her supply, so I have to wait until mid-February to receive mine. Well worth the wait!Aside from that I have been hard at work on my various writing jobs: my monthly "Talking Crochet" column and articles for Inside Crochet in Britain and Crochet Traditions, an annual publication by the nice folks at Piecework magazine. The article for Inside Crochet is on drape and involved making swatches so I received some luscious yarns from Lorna's Laces, Malabrigo and Blue Sky Alpacas to play with. The left-overs are now hanging around and adorning my studio. It's a festive time of year; never hurts to have yarn hanging around!

We kicked off the holiday season by making fruitcake and cut out cookies for Chloe (eh, Bethany). Younger daughter, Beth, came to help. Never discount the value of your local library. We went Sunday afternoon for a lecture about Jim Henson's advertisement work. As a bonus surprise, the guy who does the voice of Cookie Monster was there and had Cookie with him. What fun!

We fit in a visit to my dad in Indiana to wish him a Merry Christmas and to take a few gifts. It is really hard to know what to get a 91 year old! Food is the best best. We took him to dinner one night and I cooked for him the next. I also went to "tea-time" with him at the ice cream shop. His ever-dwindling group of friends meets every Wed. at 2 PM for coffee, not chocolate and sometimes ice cream. There's a lot of talk about health or lack thereof, but somehow they keep a sense of humor. each week they have the same waitress (I've done this before) and she seems to enjoy them and definitely takes good care of them.

Dad and his pal, Jack.Much as I fear freezing to death before we can get to Mexico on February 16, I have to admit that our walk in the forest on Saturday was quite wonderful. The prospect of yummy waffles at the Red Apple Cafe after the walk made the experience palatable, so to speak, as well! Large snowflakes were falling down and as they say, there is no bad weather only bad clothes! We were bundled up well

and were sweating by the time we finished our 3 mile walk. Why they keep a grove of elk fenced in near a busy roadway is a mystery to me, but they sure are interesting to look at. They are fed by the park rangers, so it seems like most humans are a source of hope (for food) for them!

Seeing young deer romp in front of us along our path seemed more natural, though.

Speaking of festive, our paper listed the houses nearby with the glitziest decorations, so we decided to take a drive to see them after dark last night.

If you are unable or don't have the time to go out, check the "flash mob" at Woodfield Mall, the 2nd largest US mall which is 10 minutes from my house: www.youtube.com/tmobile
It is a national ad for T-Mobile.

In addition to the swatches I crocheted, I've done a fair share of crochet gift work too.

Sweater for Chloe.

Sleeveless Hoodie for Jack.(the baby, not the dog)

Hat for Chloe.

and a gift for the annual chapter holiday party!December 29 marks the death of my mom in 2009. I was digging around the crawl space for decorations and came upon a dish my dad had given me last year. In her memory, I decided to use it as a table decoration this season. I placed a candle inside and surrounded it with gold balls. The most endearing part is the note she left inside: "This cracker bowl belonged to my great grandmother. It is between 40-50 years old. I got in on April 24, 1943." Making use of this treasure is another "me gift to me!"

WHICHEVER WAY YOU MIGHT CELEBRATE THE WONDERFUL SEASON, I WISH YOU ALL THE VERY BEST!

Austentatious Crochet: A Book Review

2011-11-22T16:59:00.001-06:00

Tuesday, November 22, 2011You know they say, "Give and you will receive." I was the "buddy" of Melissa Horozewski at the Chain Link Crochet Conference in 2011 in Manchester, NH. She was a delightful person to get to know and to accompany to some of the activities throughout the crochet-filled weekend. At the time she was working on her book, which was untitled.Last week I was quite surprised and excited when her autographed book, Austentatious Crochet,

arrived in my mailbox. In her accompanying note, Melissa expressed her gratitude for my helpfulness as her buddy. The buddy program has been a resounding success for CGOA, and I was happy to be a part of it. It is not tough work and crocheters are the easiest people befriend!Now on to the the review... During our brief weekend together, Melissa and I didn't get a chance discuss topics beyond our common passions for crochet. WOW! I didn't know how literary she is! In her bio Melissa says that if a hook is not in her hand then a book is; and the fact that she is well-read comes shining through in this book. It includes thirty-six original crochet projects inspired by all six classic Jane Austen novels. Traditional Regency fashion is fabulously brought up to date and made wearable for today. Introductions to each chapter set the scene by including vignettes from the novels that inspired the pattern. With a barrage of new crochet books coming out almost monthly, the extraordinary juxtaposition between "then and now" sets this book apart from all the others. It is refreshing to find extra surprises within the pages of Austentatious Crochet that are not found anywhere else: the stories, a recipe for tea, trivia quizzes and fashion-related quotes from Austen's letters. Exquisite photography and lovely art throughout the book, literally transport you to Jane Austen's era.There is a wide variety of original crochet patterns, ranging from quick and easy to more advanced, and including a nice range of ages as well. This time I feel like I am getting a super bargain for the reasonable price of $16.00 for this book which is packed full of crochet and so much more. Congratulations on your first book, Melissa, you outdid yourself. I am already looking forward to your next book!

Crochet Can Be Distracting!

2011-11-08T17:47:00.001-06:00

Tuesday, November 8, 2011Early one morning last week, I was dressed and ready to go out, dressed in crochet, but wanted to get the crock pot going with arroz con pollo to simmer all day. Suddenly, I realized I was missing one ingredient: a can of diced tomatoes! The chicken and all the seasonings were in the pot and I had no other choice than to run out to the grocery to buy the can of tomatoes. No problem, I thought; I will turn it on low and be back within 20 minutes. It will hardly be heated up by then and I'll just throw the tomatoes on top.I created "Americana Jacket" in probably 1997 and published the instructions to make it in February 1999 in Arts & Crafts Magazine.

(The crock pot story will continue). I don't know if that magazine still exists and I consider the jacket a bit tattered by now, but I do enjoy wearing it, especially in the fall. Denim is timeless and well, it has crocheted sleeves. I was just about keeping on schedule until I got in the check-out lane. The lady behind me admired my jacket; recognized it as crochet and just didn't stop talking about how wonderful the yarns and colors are and how great it is that it is crocheted and how did I do it? I still remember to this day where the inspiration came from. It was a knit version of a similar jacket hanging in a yarn store (which no longer exists either) That was probably 1988, By now the check-out clerk has joined in the conversation and is telling us how much she admires crochet and would love to have time to do it.It was a wonderful feeling to have such a friendly conversation during what would normally be a drudgery of a trip to the grocery. I made it home, not in 20 minutes, but before the chicken scorched! Tomtoes on top and I was off! Those comments and compliments I heard at the grocery were not the last I heard that day. It seems that my jacket was quite a hit all over town, no matter where I went. Hmmm, is it the denim or the crochet that is timeless or is it all the texture and combination of colors that draw attention. By the time I reached home I was tired and ready for a break from so much attention, but it was also quite satisfying to think that something I enjoyed making so much twenty years ago is still worth wearing today.Crochet buddy, Boston Bobble, and I went on a field trip to the Fine Art of Fiber. It is co-sponsored by the Embroiderers, Weavers and Quilters' guilds and has been an annual inspiration for many years. This year was no exception. I had finished my freeform scarf from my class with Prudence Mapstone at the Chain Link Crochet Conference in Sept. just days before. I purposely chose to wear this artful piece to this event, knowing that it would be a haven of needleworkers who can appreciate all that went into my scarf.

There was not shortage of admirers and Boston Bobble said she was going to start keeping track of the number of compliments. Thank you, Prudence, for your inspiring class! I do appreciate admiration, but it was actually starting to get to be a bit embarrasing! Boston Bobble, sweet thing that she is, said, "Don't you just love it?" I had to explain that really, I create what makes me happy, especially in the freeform arena and I don't depend on compliments. If it makes me happy, then I have accomplished what I set out too. Others' admiration is "icing on the cake" though!

Scary Goblins? Gruesome tricks? What I love about Halloween!

2011-10-31T13:57:00.001-05:00

Monday, October 31, 2011
There is something about October and Halloween time that really strikes my fancy. Is it the crisp leaves, drying and falling? No, they make my nose itch! Maybe it is the crisp air with sunshine, if we're lucky. No, it reminds me of winter not far behind!

It has to be the color or maybe it's the apples! Fall colors are not ones that I do well, so I really do appreciate being surrounded by them in nature. It is a gradual process as the chlorophyll is spent

and the array of oranges, rusts and browns phase in and jolt the senses against the perfectly clear blue sky? Why is it that some burning bushes turn bright red much sooner than others?

Try looking at the big picture: a line of colorful trees in a park, blasts of color along the highway.

Apples are so fine just by themselves but amazing when they become a part of the myriad of recipes that I just have to make this time of year: apple pie, apple crunch, fresh apple cake with cream cheese icing, carmel apples, baked apples, sauteed apples, apple sauce and cinnamon apples! Then there are pumpkins and that gorgeous orange color again. Pumpkins are just as useful when it comes to recipes as apples. Afterall, the same spices, cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger, are often used. Pumpkin soup is a delight for the sense and I will have to search for an apple soup recipe!

Not only does nature decorate our scenery, but many neighbors get into it as well, some more tasteful than others.

Little kids get so excited about dressing up, candy and going out after dusk. The many shapes and colors of fallen leaves excites me or maybe it is the memory of pressing them between two sheets of waxed paper to preserve in a special book forever.

Did you every rake a pile of leaves and then make a leaf fort or just jump right into the pile?

Having lived in Mexico for two years, we grew to appreciate their comparable holiday: Did del Los Muertos. I combine the two in my decorating.

The Mexicans really do it better than we do. The don't get so gruesome and mccabe. They dedicate the first two days in November to celebrate the lives of their loved ones who have passed on, to remember with joy, their lives and their favorite foods. Here in Chicago, with our large Mexican population, there is even a cemetary that stays open past midnight to let them enter and have "picnic" of favorite foods by the grave of their dearly departed!

Halloween is a time for kids and "kids at heart." There are also so many adorable crochet items to be made for the little ones or for decoration around the house.

This is the second year Chloe has worn her Halloween Headband and hasn't lost it yet! The pattern to make it is in my Ravelry store:http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/babys-first-halloween-headband

I had added a new video to my channel on YouTube. It is a tutorial(in 2 parts)on doing the unique technique of Flatwork Bead-Crochet which is used in the pumpkin brooch: Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YE1MGsgVdZA Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/user/crochetkween?feature=mhsn#p/a/u/1/uP1wLltYE7U

I Love Yarn day, October 14, 2011

2011-10-18T17:04:00.002-05:00

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

I was super-excited about this event and while there with all my crocheting buddies, I totally forgot to take pictures!We met on October 14, the day designated by the Craft Yarn Council as I Love Yarn day.

To me it was a no-brainer: what a perfect way to spend a day, celebrating our love of yarn, our love of the fiber arts and our love of edible treats.

I arranged for us to meet at Portillo's restaurant in Vernon Hills, IL and I posted it on the Northern IL Chapter of CGOA Ravelry page as well as the Ravelry events page. I also let the Crocheters of the lakes Chapter know about it. We had representatives from both chapters and we had quite a contingent of bi-stitchers who do both crochet and knit.

We shared tales of local yarn stores, we shared characteristics of the yarns we were working with and we shared french fries! It is amazing how our strands of yarn bind us together as almost instant friends. There is something about the fell of yarn running through your fingers and the opportunity to share creativity that brings a group together.

After two hours and having had lunch, we needed to be on our separate ways, but we vowed that this was a great idea and that we should do it again!

Here are some reports from my online crochet friends about what they did to celebrate the day:
-learn a new stitch-the Siberian stitch
-do yarnbombing for the very first time
-have an online mini-contest and crochet some pumkins
-work on a new design to be published as a pattern

My weekend in Indiana was full of family events and I was so thrilled to have my entire family together. Seeing grandchildren, Chloe and Jack was a super-sized bonus! Jack is almost 3 months old already and has come out of his "fog". He is growing like a weed and starting to get a personality and smile. Chloe is a dancing machine and has no fear. She is precious and sweet and oh so smart! (and I am not exaggerating!)

Niece Sarah's wedding reception was a lovely affair and we had a great time.

The next day we headed south to Frankfort where Alan's family was gathering for a reunion of sorts.

Sister Alice was in town from California as well as Cousin Connie from
Seattle. There are newborn babies, so it is a good occasion to get together.
We had a great carry-in meal

and after a lot of visiting and catching up, we headed to the farm where we relaxed and enjoyed the rest of the afternoon just visiting with Alan's siblings.

Bobbles & Bikes!

2011-10-10T12:44:00.001-05:00

Monday, October 11, 2011
It is Columbus Day and for many it means no mail and maybe even a day off work if you are a government worker. For me, semi-retired, it means pretty much the same: do the laundry and stay home and blog! Today is special, though; I met my friend Rita for a bike ride in Busse Woods (a forest preserve)

and we ended our experience with crochet lessons in our breakfast spot - Ritzy's.

Today was yet another incredibly gorgeous day and perfect for a bike ride. We do just under 8 miles in our route which takes an hour. The woods is loaded with fall color; the sites and sound of falling leaves and even a view of the Elk that live there. I am not one to count the days or pay attention to the weather; I refuse to let the weather get in my way! However, we have been having a phenomenon here in Chicago that must be counted: we are in at least our 9th consecutive day of glorious hi-70s and 80s temperatures with sunshine and not a drop of rain. Hallelujah!

Rita hosted me a couple of weeks ago to teach "her" kids how to crochet in the after school program. She says that seeing the kids learn inspired her to pull out her hooks and get started again. When we worked together at the hospital a few years ago, I was tutoring Rita on sock-making! As is often the case with crochet, Rita ran out of yarn before her scarf was finished, so she wanted me to give her some creative "oopsy" tips. I introduced her to the filet grid, little flowers and some bobbles. Being an art therapist, Rita will find the most creative ways to finish her scarf. I look forward to encouraging her along the way!

I'm immersed in flowers leaves and motifs myself this week. My work on my freeform scarf continues. I have it laid out on my ironing board upstaris and I am getting some good exercise as I walk up and down the stairs when I need to check on how the latest addition fits into the scheme. My Ravelry fan group started a new free-form Crochet-Along and I am "Designer for a Day" this week. I bet they were impressed at how early I got my instructions and photo up there this morning! Check it out and you are welcome to join us.

This afternoon the warm sunshine on the "crochet deck" will be calling to me. Here's what I have on the hooks: spider web doily, socks, freeform scarf, bead-crochet bracelet, shrug. Where do I begin?

Today Was a Day...

2011-10-04T20:25:00.001-05:00

Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Today was a day like every day should be: early start and out for a walk in the warm sunshine and then off to the local yarn shop for my Fuzz-Along (formerly Crochet Connection). What a great group of serious stitchers and they are all so nice! We must have been celebrating the return of one particpant who had been on a 3-week river cruise in Denmark because we had donuts and candy corn today! I was able to help two of them with crochet quandries which always makes their day!

I even got a few more facets of my current free-form crochet creation done!

Following that group I gave a private bead-crochet lesson and another bead-crocheter was born into the world today. She was very excited about what she learned and was going home to continue "spiraling" beads. After a couple of errands, I still had time to read a few chapters on the sun-filled deck, but my mind was spining with thoughts of beads. I strung up a little mix of random-color left overs and made a quick little bracelet for almost-two year old Chloe. She was admiring GiGi's bead bracelets last time I was there, so I thought she should have her own.

Every day could be like this one; I wouldn't mind! All this after coming off from two other events: Block of the Month CAL (crochet along) where I went to lend support on Saturday and then last night my new Fibonacci Sequence study group. How great to have all these crochet options! I can remember a day when I thought I was the only one who crocheted and for sure, I spend my time crocheting alone!

Crochet Defines Me

2011-09-21T16:24:00.001-05:00

Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Or at least it feels like crochet defines me. It's what I do; it keeps me busy.

When Antonio, our friend from Mexico came to visit a few weeks ago, I forgot to post this pic. Here is is with daughter, Bethany.

His mother was so sweet to send along this colorful afghan as a gift to me:

Last week I met my friend, Ashley, for her weekly challenge. She has asked 52 of her best friends to give her a challenge to carry out weekly during the year that preceeds her 30th birthday. Mine of course was for her to be learn or at least be exposed to crochet by MOI!! We met at the LYS nfd truthfully, she was a great student and learned well. She enjoyed it too and found it relaxing right away! Yay, another crocheter is born into the world!

We were out of town for the weekend at a family reunion and then a quick visit to see the grandchildren.

JACK

CHLOE

I got home too late on Monday to go to my new Fibonacci study group; oh well, I will catch up next week.

Tuesday morning as always, I have my fuzz-along at the LYS (local yarn shop). It is a busy and happy group. I ran off from there to teach crochet to some 9-13 year olds at an after school program that my friend, Rita, assits with. Sorry to say, I was so busy teaching that I didn't get any photos. The kids were great and learned some of the basics of crochet; not bad for just 1 1/2 hours. Rita was quite pleased and especially proud of one little girl who, after her initial self-doubt, really took to it. Rita says she rarely sticks with anything. The kids asked if I was going to come back next week. That felt good.

Today I am in Greensboro, NC, after a long day of travel that started at OHare at 5 AM. I went west to Dallas to come back east to Greensboro! That's how they punish you for using "frequent flyer points!" I am at the Chain Link Crochet Conference and I have a class tonight-"Full of Bullion (Stitch That is!)". I chose the class because of the humor!

I Love It When A Plan Comes Together

2011-09-15T11:46:00.001-05:00

Thursday, September 15, 2011
As I mentioned last week, I had a lot of projects in the works and they were bound to come together sooner or later. Here's what I've finished since last we chatted.

Nellie Necklace. Made with stash yarn, this mixed-media necklace is embellished with a polyclay flower by "Nellie." I don't remember who Nellie is or where I got it, so it is particularly thrilling to finally put this beautiful flower to use!

Earrings for Sylvia. She and I are bartering Crochet for knit!

Earrings for Deb. She bought the focal bead and seed beads and commissioned me to make the earrings.

Bear-themed diaper cover & hat for Jack!

Coin Purse for Sylvia. I owe her big time! She uses Noro!

Tonight I will bring a new crocheter into the world. My young friend, Ashley, is turning 30 next June and she is expanding her horizons in the 52 weeks that precede this momentous occasion. She calls it "365 days of Ashley." She called on 52 of her best friends to provide her with a challenge that she must carry out each week. She drew my challenge this week and we are meeting tonight at my local yarn store for her crochet lesson. I definitely believe that learning to crochet will expand Ashley's horizons in ways she can't even imagine. She does happen to be anurse so she will definitely ujnderstand and appreciate the therapeutic benefits of crocheting. She has a high-profile job and will definitely find this the perfect way to wind down and relax after a hard day at work!

The Social Benefits of Guild Membership

2011-09-07T19:59:00.000-05:00

Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Sometimes we get a little restless and complain about the business end of the local guild meetings. However, if it weren't for the National Guild: CGOA, the meetings, the organizing and the volunteers there wouldn't be a chapter AND I wouldn't have met Boston Bobble and Beady Buddy!

Today we had a social outing and a mission to explore a bead store. These kind of social events are really the way to get to know chapter members and lots of fun too! Our destination was Bodacious Beads in Des Plaines, IL I've been there many a time; it was a frequent destination when I was a member of the Bead Society of Greater Chicago.

My cohorts were newbies and I was in charge of keeping their spending under control. As fate would have it, I came with a small list of things I reeeeally needed, so I got distracted from my duties. They surpassed the $100.00 mark, but hey, that got the 10% discount!! It is very easy to get distracted in a store of this kind; so much to see. By the looks of my friends' faces, they weren't all that disappointed in my lack of fiscal leadership!

Beady Buddy is also a Chicago hot dog officionado and lucky for us we were very near the Pup Palace! We stood in line for 10 minutes to get some really tasty dawgs and enjoyed an outdoor seat in the sunshine to eat and chat and compare notes on our exciting purchases.

Personally, I had strung up three bead projects last night and I came home with at least 3 more. I will be on a bead jag for a while and that's okay. I love crocheting with beads!

I can feel a wave of FOs (finished objects) coming on. I haven't finished any projects in a while and last night I finished a pair of cutie booties for Grand-nephew, Isaac.

This might just be the week when several come together, get finished and get posted on Ravelry!! Stay tuned!!

I Had to Work All Weekend!

2011-08-29T14:34:00.003-05:00

Monday, August 29, 2011
Most people who talk about having to work the weekend conclude a huge groooan! Not me, no complaints! Lucky me, in my work this weekend I was surrounded by crocheters, eager crochet students, yarn, hooks and patterns plus lots of inspiration that will sustain me for months to come!

You guessed it, I am talking about the Stitches Midwest event sponsored by XRX and held in Schaumburg from Thursday to Sunday. I taught 4 crochet classes in the Market Sessions

Irish Crochet on Steroids!

Basic Bead-Crochet Scissor Fob

No-Rules Crochet: Freeform Method

The Posh Post Stitch
In honor of the crochet classes being offered, I yarn-bombed a rock in my local park on Tuesday before it all got started to celebrate!

Yarn bombing beautifies our environment rather than destroying it!

I was among a small but esteemed group of crochet teachers offering classes: Edie Eckman and Ginger Smith.

Boy, was I impressed by my students! They were enthusiastic learners and a lot of fun. What nice people!

Gwen and Lisa(acmespaceship) in No-Rules Class

XRX really knows how to treat their teachers and truly made me feel so welcome! We were treated to lunch early on Thursday and then moved on to the student luncheon where we did some last minute promotion of our classes. That night at our very short teachers' meeting, we were presented with our checks, even before we began to teach! From there, we were invited to attend the launch party of Jean Frost's new book and we were gifted a copy! The next night at the student banquet, we were presented with incredible gift bags chock full of products from the marketplace vendors!

Teachers' Gift Bag!

Wow, what inspiration for future designs!The printing of my classes materials was beautiful and there was always someone checking on me to see if I needed anything in class! Thank you, thank you XRX for the opportunity to teach crochet at this event!

Thank you also to Xendra2 whose post on Crochet Liberation Front (CLF) has brought a fresh new awareness about crocheters and their shopping and class-taking habits! Thank you also, Laura, for taking my No-Rules class!

Xnedra2 in No-Rules class with Gwen

It was also great to have some Ravlery friends in my classes and to run into them in the marketplace.

feralknitter

Crochet Guild of America (CGOA) had an updated presence in the marketplace this year, with the additional assistance from the Northern IL Chapter of CGOA. Our Executive Director, Penny, has consistently represented our organization and we were delighted to expand our booth this year with the generous support of XRX once again. We welcomed national President, Amy Swenson and board Secretary Karen Whooley.

Penny, Karen, Gwen, Amy

Not only did our chapter members staff the CGOA booth,

Gwen, Amy (Chapter Pres) & Ann

they were also staffing the Warm Up America booth for the Craft Yarn Council.

Sindy & Gail from NIC

We welcomed crocheters from all over the midwest and of course tried to encourage and support them in all things crochet. We gave demos, encouraged them to take classes and took their applications for membership in CGOA! Top-notch designers/authors did book signings in our booth throughout the weekend: Lily Chin, Edie Eckman, Myra Wood and Kristen Omdahl. Many thanks to all the chapter members who gave of their time and talent to hold their hooks high for not only CGOA, but for all crocheters at this event!

Again, thanks to Xnedra2 and crocheters nationwide who got in on the discussion on the Ravelry Stitches Midwest group, XRX management, BenjaminXRX, bent over backwards to make crocheters feel welcomed throughout the event.

Gwen & Benjamin Levisay, CEO of XRX
There was a special 3-page spread in the showbook where crochet-friendly vendors were listed. This made it really easy to find the products and the welcome they were seeking. Benjamin also hosted a "Crochet Gathering" which was advertised in the showbook. This very special group of Ravelers and Industry professionals met for discussion and then walked the show floor together on Sunday to visit vendors and to talk about what crocheters enjoyed seeing and what more we would like to see. We were welcomed with open arms by them all. The crochet-friendly vendors, crochet demos and crochet book signings are way to numerous to mention

The group with Susan Moraca of Kollage Yarns. Thank you, Susan, for the Hip to Be Square crochet hooks you gave to each of us!

A Chat in the Fine Points booth.

"Crochet Rocks" sign front and center in the Fiesta Yarns booth.

So that's the story...work is not work when you are doing what you love! I want to hear from all my followers who were at Stitches Midwest. What did you like about it? Pass the word; encourage more crocheters to come next year for classes and shopping. PASS THE WORD about my blog, please!

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Hunting and Gathering

2011-08-19T21:15:00.002-05:00

Friday August 19, 2011
I find it extremely rewarding to begin the "hunting and gathering" process when I ready to begin a new pattern or design. It begins with the most important part: considering the required gauge of the project/yarn. Then, I begin to decide color and that narrows the search to a reasonable degree. From there it involves pawing through the various recptacles where I store my yarn.

My yarn is confined to one room, except for that which is in the trunk of my car! Now, now before you jump to conclusions, in my trunk is my car is my traveling stash for my weekly teaching sessions. It is not yarn I would call on for any special projects. Oh yeah, and there is the yarn in the basement, but that is of the rug yarn variety, practically impervious to weather, sun and rain, that I use for yarn bombing.

I store the majority of my yarn in creative ways, interesting baskets and wooden receptables. From there I have hanging storage units and even some plastic bins with lids. My "working yarn" is all stored in my "working studio." I categorize all my yarns by color. The novelty yarns, sportweight wool, bamboo and those unique imported novelty textures are separated loosely by colorways: greens, pinks, reds, etc. I separate my acrylic blend categories in the same way, by colors.

When pawing through the colors, there is overlap of tones and shades because of the variegated yarns, but that keeps it interesting and leads to inspiration. The most frustrating part is when I find the perfect weight and color, but don't have enough for the designated project!

Once a year, though, along comes the Chicagoland Yarn Crawl and that is my motivation for exploring and stocking up on sufficient yarns for sufficient projects. It is hunting and gathering on a grand scale and includes 27 stores over 5 regions. Today was such a day and my cro-buddy, Boston Bobble, and I started out bright and early at 10:00 AM at Mosaic Yarn Studio in Des Plaines, IL. Looking like the yarn nerds that we are, we were among the first customers in the door when the shop opened. Our goal was to visit only stores with bi-stitchural names.

Each shop is supposed to be giving a free knit or crochet pattern to each person who stops by as well as a stamp in the passport for winning a prize. Here, they had a stack of the free knit patterns but printed the crochet pattern on demand! They were also prepared to switch the knitting needles in the gift bag for crochet ones, if the winner crochets.....?

Boston Bobble (aka BeeBee) had never been there and was very impressed by the huge supply of yarn, sale bin and the abundance of crochet books and patterns. I used to teach there, so I knew it was a crochet friendly place. Hey, I might have even had something to do with that, back in the day when the store first opened and I was teaching crochet there among a sea of knitting classes!

Darlene, owner of Mosaic Yarn Studio

An enthusiastic young crochet/knitter was in the shop also, determined to visit one shop in each of the 5 regions today! Ravelry came up, of course, and she was thrilled to know we are avid fans and she wanted to "friend" us. When she found out I am Crochetkween, she shreeked with joy to meet me as she is a member of my Ravelry designer fan page, Cro-Kween Designs. Later, after she bought her purchases and hubby and son were waiting in the car, she shyly approached me and ask if she could have a photo with me. OF COURSE, I said, I was delighted to meet a Rav friend there, especially a fan of mine!

Me and Heavenlyknitchets

We lucked into BeeBee's favorite, Mexican food, for lunch to fortify ourselves for the afternoon. Our next stop was Fuzzy Wuzzy Yarns in Arlington Heights where I teach crochet. Here it was nice to run into friends on my turf - my LYS community plus an old friend from another shop I used to teach at that has since gone out of business. There were some nice yarn bowls on consignment from a customer's niece and my original design scarf was on display too. Unfortunately, Chris unilaterally chose to eliminate the front page of my scarf pattern with the beautiful photo of my daughter wearing it to save money on printing, so here it is.

Flowers on a Trellis Scarf

Me at Fuzzy Wuzzy Yarns
Time was starting to run out so we had to weigh our options for the last stop of the day. We chose I-Would-Rather-Be-Poking-My-Eyes-Out-With Knitting-Needles" Yarn Shop specifically based on the knowlege that they are moving soon and might be having a really big "clean out sale." Against our better judgement, since it doesn't have a bi-stitural name, we went to check it out.

I bought some yarn for 50% off and am happy I did. BeeBee was happy with the number of crochet books and the knowlege that the owner's son is going to Dartmouth! A relatively new employee was very nice to us (I haven't been there for 2 years so maybe she isn't that new, but the nice part is new). They didn't have a crochet pattern to give for free, not on demand, not nothing!

Me There
Ironically, they had little cheap buttons that we each bought too: BeeBee's was "I crochet because I'm smarter than you." and I got, "Double Agent." These really topped off our visit here!

Nobody's perfect; especially not me. Not only did I hunt and gather yarn today, but also gathered some opinions on where or where not I will return to put down my hard-earned dollars!

The Amazing Needle

2011-08-09T20:24:00.000-05:00

Tuesday August 9, 2011
There's a yarn shop somewhere called "The Amazing Needle" and there is a crochet tool by the same name. IHere, I focus on that delicate little piece of steel used for sewing!

While finishing up my Chapter Challenge embellishment last week, I spent quite a bit of time sewing. As my needle poked in and out, securing necessary parts at necessary points, I pondered the usefulness of this little tool that is so simple yet so handy. Its sparkle makes me happy and I enjoy the rhythm as I whip stitch things securely into place. The needle with exactly matching thread can work miracles when repairing old lace too!

My mother was an expert seamstress with the machine, but I never measured up in that department. I do think I weild a needle pretty well, though, and I am proud of how my simple little needle influences my crochet work to go places that it couldn't go on its own!

For now, I must keep my Chapter Challenge piece a secret, but when I unveil it after the contest in October, you'll see what I meed about my needle.

Some people call the crochet "hook" a "needle." I've never done that. Here's what my hook finished this week for baby boy Jack:

Nuk Holder
I've made huge strides this week on two creative processes. They are not quite finished; but boy, it has been a stimulating and uplifting journey as I create my way along uncharted paths with my yarn. Photos soon, I promise.

Daughter Nicole is on "uncharted paths" too: two children under the age of 20 months! Here's a few shots of the darlings!

The Segments of My Cro-Mind

2011-08-02T14:26:00.000-05:00

Tuesday, August 2, 2011
We've just welcomed our second grandchild, a boy, into the world and I spent the last ten days helping out new mommy and "big sister" who is twenty months old!

Hi...My name is Jack!

Big Sis: Chloe

So, on July 22 we headed off for Indianapolis soon after Nicole checked into the hospital. It was her due date and she was ready! I had packed a shopping bag full of random crochet projects. My new mantra is to work only on original designs that come out of my head and to stop wasting time making cute things by following patterns.

Trouble is, the creative, DIY segment of my head gets a little nervous and I always feel like I need a back-up plan/pattern if something goes awry with my original design. Nothing worse than being stuck in the car with no crochet as distraction! My mind also thinks that it is more difficult to "do my own thing." and I tend to procrastinate. Once I start, usually after an idea pops in the shower, I realize it is just stitches and yarns. Putting them together to be creative is play time.

I know that I have waited way too long to get going on the list of ideas I have scratched on paper. It is time to turn them into reality. I feel good about what I accomplished last week. In spite of a running 20 month old, and a week old nursing baby, I believe I made reasonable progress. I always have to have a "brainless" project on hand for total relaxation and here is the only project I "finished" this week

Lion Bath Mitt for Chloe

October is Chapter Challenge time for my Northern IL Chapter and I made great inroads on my entry into the contest. I can't reveal anything as of yet; pics will have to wait. Our challenge is to embellish one of our chapter logo items, be it a T-shirt, bag or even a mug. I am happy with my idea and it seems to be playing out the way I envisioned.

I have held onto an interesting piece of driftwood for years and I am talking YEARS!!! Finally, I made myself take a close look at it, rip off some of the cactus fiber yarn I had crocheted on to it and to start anew with new inspiration. It's colorful, it's wacky and I like it. I am getting close to finishing it. The day I finish and am pleased with the sculpture will be a day of celebration!

I never finished my "Embellished Bag" CAL at Cro-Kween Designs back in the winter. It wasn't my fault...I ran out of the appropriate colors of yarn. The bag with all the little motifs I created is calling to me. Yay! I am out of projects that can distract me and look forward to pulling the embellished bag together soon.

Why do I segment my projects/stitches in my brain and think of some as harder than others? When I find out I'll write about it. I need to work more frequently on just creations to keep the brain cells more limber and more willing to jump right in and guide me to a place of creativity! I'll put that on the To-Do list!

Crochet is my Bliss

2011-07-18T17:37:00.002-05:00

Monday, July 18, 2011
Ya know how sometimes a word whose complete meaning you're not sure of pops into your head just when you need to use it? I knew "bliss" was the right choice for today's post, but had to look it up just to be sure before sending this message out into cyber-space! "Complete happiness, paradise, heaven": Yep these words fit the bill and describe what my crochet means to me.

Most days crochet engages me in conversations with others. Today while being tested for allergies, I was asked what my job is. Designer/author; it led to conversation about patience, beauty bedspreads in fine thread and my favorite thing to crochet. I told the nurse that crochet art and covering rocks in crochet pique my interest. When I told her that I also covered a frying pan in wire crochet, her reaction was less surprise and more awe that I would have the patience for such things!

"Out of the Frying Pan Into the Fire!"

She also asked if I could think about other things while crocheting and I assured her that I can multi-task and also float into the relaxation zone with my crochet.

I had made a note to my self to talk about crochet as art and in particular my crochet art this week, so we'll segue down that road here. I was very pleased with an interview about me done by Marie at the undergroundcrafter this week. She did a superb job of weaving my answers to her questions and many links skillfully to give me some great exposure. Marie described me as a "crochet artist." I was pleased by that, but I would say I've been more of an advocate for crochet as art.Since 1994 I have promoted crochet as art, not only by juried exhibits at the annual Crochet Guild conferences but in other venues as well. My crowing glory, I have to say, was the traveling crochet art exhibit, "Rhythm of Crochet," that traveled the country as part of the Tenth Anniversary celebration of CGOA!

"Rhythm of Crochet" traveling juried art exhibit

You can read Marie's interview of me here: Marie stressed my art and it got me to thinking that I haven't written much lately about my art or shared my latest wacky creations. Think of this as a pictorial essay:

"Memories of Honduras" Mixed Media: Cloisonne cabochon, yarn, metallic thread, beads. Bead-Crochet CAL at cro-Kween Designs

"Aunt Mary & Me" Mixed Media: ceramic mask, crochet, jelly yarn.

Mixed Media: Grapevine Basket

Crocheting with Porcelain: business card holder.

Famous Face Series: Frida Kahlo

If I get through the measuring for new granite countertops tomorrow morning, I will feel like I am home free to sit back with a blank calendar and wait for baby grandboy to arrive. His due date is 7/22, just 4 days from now. Just this minute Nicole called to report that she had some strong contractions last night and they started up again just now!! Things are happening. The contractions are erratic, 7 minute, 10 minutes apart, but it is surely a sign that he's on his way!

I have my crochet bag packed should there be time and another bag is half started. Hmm, better get on that tonight!

Crochet Touches My Heart!

2011-07-11T19:41:00.002-05:00

Monday, July 11, 2011
Who knew that a warm fuzzy feeling about crochet is possible on trip to Home Depot! A chat with Tanya McGuire at Midwest Folk & Fiber Art Fair led to warm fuzzy feelings in her glorious flameworked beads booth! But that's to be expected at such a place! She and I talked about her upcoming booth at Stitches Midwest and I admired one of her crocheted bracelets. All well and good; what does this have to do with Home Depot?

Tanya's bracelet requires plastic tubing and dear hubby didn't have the right size in his garage storage bins! So, off I went to the Depot to find just the right tubing. The young and handsome clerk that showed me the various sizes of tubing ask what I was going to do with it. I told him I was making a bracelet and covering the tubing with crochet.

His first comment was to ask if I had seen the story on CNN about yarn grafitti.
When I told him that I do that myself, he was impressed. I told him about the lion's tail I covered recently. He said his grandmother did crochet non-stop, but he never learned and didn't have the patience for it. As I left with my stash of tubing, I thanked him again and he replied, "I'm happy to be a part of it." AW, how very sweet!

Here is the bracelet I made using Tanya's concept. It is embellished with one of her gorgeous ceramic beads that I got last year.

Be sure to look for her booth at Stitches MW. It is her first time to sell there and I told her to be sure to bring plenty of patterns and ideas for crocheters!

I was also touched this week to find that I was featured as a crochet artist on the blog "Crochet Concupiscence. www.crochetconcupiscence.com/tag/crochetqueen
I was very flattered by this prolific and ardent crochet writer. My art on my website was referred to, and I was reminded that I don't update my website anymore since I am so active on Ravelry and flickr.

Next week, I will post some of my newest art creations that aren't on the blog.

The State of Things

2011-07-01T12:33:00.006-05:00

Friday, July 1, 2011
It is always a little intimidating to get back to blogging after letting it lapse like I have for the last 3 weeks or so. This relaxing holiday weekend seems like the right time to sit down, contemplate these past weeks and write about the "state of things" (crochet)

With crocheting, with volunteering, with most anything we like to do, we often say "real life" (RL) gets in the way. I've always refused to let anything get in the way of my crochet, because even if if I was in the hospital, I think I would find a way to be able to crochet some. For sure in doctor's offices, baseball fields, in the dark on a car ride, etc, etc, I CAN CROCHET!

Some may think that R L has gotten in my way these last few weeks. Well, yes it has, but I have not stopped crocheting. Crocheting sustains me; crocheting allows me to drift away for short periods of relaxation.

My husband has a degenerative disease which is affecting his ability to talk. It is a very long story and I am a private person when it comes to things like this. I'm not comfortable with people feeling sorry for me, so you won't have to slog through the story here! It doesn't have a simple label that tells the story quickly like that of diabetes or heart disease ; it is very unusual and takes a lot of explaining. You probably won't "see" me "talking" about it here again for a very long time. It is so rare, in fact, that we spent last week in Bethesda, MD at the National Institute of Health's "Undiagnosed Disease" program. We are very glad we went and can't say enough about the brilliant and caring professionals who we met there.

I took along several crochet projects that just looked like they would be fun to do. I love following crochet patterns written by other people; I like crocheting with thread. I have also been on a crocheted flower kick lately, maybe becaue it is summer. Here are a couple of the finished objects. I did while gone. It is very satisfying to start and finish something in a realtively short time.

Since Alan is not acutely ill, he was given a pass each day to leave the hospital and didn't have to stay overnight. That's when we switched gears to "vacation mode."

My first goal was to visit the World War II Memorial on the mall in D.C. Using the Metro to get around is easy-breezy and we were glad we went there. I found my father's name in the computer kiosk. He served in the army and landed on Normandy Beach on D-Day! He survived it just fine, but doesn't, to this day, like to talk about it. I went there because at 91, her never will. I got some good photos which I will share with him along with the brochure. We also took in the Viet Nam Vets Memorial and then headed to Georgetown to wander. There we found a fabulous and very authentic Italian restaurant where we thoroughly enjoyed our meal. It was Father's day too, so we stopped at the cupcake shop and treated ourself to one!

Bethesda is full of restaurants and there was no lack of enjoyment there! On our last afternoon, we rode the Metro in the opposite direction to Alexandria where we visited the Torpedo Factory Art Center. I enjoyed it immensely and we watched several artists still at work in their studios on Friday afternoon. I found some inspiration there for my crochet as well. We found a super-delicous hamburger at the Seasfood restaurant, by just stepping into Baskin Robbins to ask for a recommendation! We found people to be extraordinarily friendly there. A friend who lives here and used to live in DC says it is because no one is really born in DC, they all come from somewhere else and are more apt to reach out. It shows!

Oh yeah, and I left my mark on Bethesda with some yarn bombing:

I've been teaching some at the local yarn shop as usual this month; hairpin lace seems to be popular. The day after we returned from Bethesda, I taught Irish Crochet at the Midwest Folk & Fiber Art Fair. I enjoyed my students very much. Evolo and JeneeR have already joined the Court over at Cro-Kween Designs on Ravelry. They were enthusiastic about learning, had good skills and a willingness to learn. I think I was able to offer them some good information about Irish crochet technique and hopefully, I launched them onto a path of creativity with inspiration from the classic Irish style. These teching venues are always inspiring to me also. I liked the market place a lot and was happy to see a bead artist,Tanya McGuire, return this year. I stocked up and got some good ideas from her and also gave her a few!She will be at Stitches Midwest and wants to offer a crochet bracelet pattern. I told her I would help her tech-edit it.

A new little being is about to come into our lives as daughter Nicole is due to have her second baby, a boy, on July 22. I asked her not to come early so I could teach at Folk & Fiber AND not to come late so I can teach at Stitches Midwest at the end of August. So far, so good! We are in waiting mode; the calendar is pretty well cleared. I think I will pack a bag soon, so that is ready when the phone call comes! We miss Chloe terribly and can't wait to see her again with her new little brother! .

I have finished up all the crochet projects I wanted to do or needed to do for classes and am ready to launch into creativity mode. No more pattern following for me; I am off on a quest to create things that have been rolling around in my head for some time. No more procrastination! No pressure either!

I look forward to the coming days and even though we know we have some hard times ahead, we know we will be strong and do what needs to be done to cope with whatever comes

Keeping Fit with Crochet

2011-06-06T15:22:00.001-05:00

Monday, June 6, 2011
Friends, Rita and Debbie, get together with me every once in a while for breakfast and catch-up. They are both uber-athletic and I was honored that they invited me to join them for a bike ride in Busse Woods before our meet-up last week at Wildberry Pancakes!

It was a picture-perfect day, cool and sunny, and we biked 9.8 miles. That's a lot for me, but I did it! It felt great!

Rita is an art therapist and she donates her time and skills to offering art experiences for children. Our conversations led her to invite me to teach crochet to her children this summer.

Feeling a little guilty, I also went off on an adventure to Forest Park to "take advantage" of the going-out-of-business sale at Chicks with Stix yarn store. None of my crochet pals were available so I had to go it alone. Everything was 35% off, but the sale had been going on a while, so there really wasn't much left. I felt like I lucked out because I got enough yarn for a sweater I want to make from the Rowan book. I may have to do some creative juggling of colors, but I think it will look great. I also bought a book for my crochet library and then promptly had a slight panic that I already had a the book. (I have been known to duplicate books) When you have over 300 in your crochet library, it is sometimes hard to remember if I've just seen a book, dreamed of having it or actually have it in my library! Yay, all was well when I got home and the new book was a welcome addition to the collection!

We took off on Friday for our last trip to visit daughter, Nicole, in MI. They are moving to Indianapolis at the end of the month! Her friend Sarah had a lovely "Sprinkle" for Nicole (that's a "shower" for second time moms!

It was real nice and also bittersweet to see her friends and neighbors for the last time. It is so reminiscent of my life as I was also seven months pregnant with Nicole when we moved from Ohio to Iowa!

We're very excited, though, on the other hand about them living in IN. It will be closer to my 91 year-old dad and more convenient for us to get to.

Running off now to do a photo shoot in the late afternoon sun with younger d, Bethany. Indie patterns coming soon....just need the photos and she's my go-to model!

A Cro-riffic Week!!

2011-05-23T16:15:00.010-05:00

Monday May 23, 2011
Last week was an exceptionally busy and exciting week of crochet inspiration, activity and exploration! The Chicagoland area is becomming a Crochet mecca! Not only do we have the Premiere Chapter of the Crochet Guild of America, the Northern IL Chapter, but we also have its Founder too-Moi! Then there's the Double Stitch twins, Erika and Monika, who are taking the crochet world by storm with their fashion-forward and funky designs and they have also been recently named as spokespersons for Coats & Clark/Red Heart yarns.

I wrote about them in Interweave Crochet magazine, "Double the Fun." (Fall 2006)

There are inumerable yarn shops in the area and Loopy Yarns in printers Row is one that I have never visited, although I wrote about them once for an article about Chicagoland yarn stores,"Miles of Loops in the Chicago Loop" in Interweave Crochet magazine (Winter 2009). Monika and Erika were "Celebrating Crochet" last week at Loopy Yarns,

so it was a no-brainer for me. I like to support their efforts and I could also see Loopy Yarns.It seems the twins are still talking about me and giving me credit for their getting their first book deal from Lark Publications as a result of my article about them. I was greeted by Nancy Thomas, former editor of Vogue Knitting and current Creative Director at Coats. She invited me to participate in the video being taped about the twins' career. This will be included as a CD in their next book, along with some how-to crochet demonstrations.

It is a very large and fabulously crochet-friendly yarn store in Printers' Row, housed in an old train station. Not only is it a delightful area to browse, but the allure of 1,000s of balls of yarn and hundreds of fiber books is a great addtion to an attractive Chicago neighborhood in the heart of downton.

At my LYS this week, I had one beginner and one intermediate crochet student which I grouped together. The lines between skill levels begin to blure sometimes once the basic three stitiches are learned. They were both very enthusiastic and also exicted at some valuable little tips I was sharing with them. They were throwing out ideas of things they want to continue to learn. I think this is the beginning of a long and productive learning experience for us all. That is a teacher's dream come true!

My week culminated with an artsy/fibery weekend. I felt we had an opportunity for our chapter to spread the owrd about Carol Hummel's crochet art. Since she was here this weekend for the opening of Nature Unframed at the Morton Arboretum which includes her crochet-covered tree, "Lichen It" I volunteered to plan an artist talk at the Rolling Meadows Library.

The intimate crowd in attendance this late-May weekend, was very enthusiastic and definitely happy they attended. Carol did a superb job of presenting a retrospective of her intriguing installation art and brought us up to the present,

her amazing tree in the arboretum!

The on-going "thread" of her work made complete sense to me: Don't let your disfunctional family get you down; instead use that dysfunction to create art and tell your story!

The culmination of my week was a phtoshoot with youngeer daughter, Bethany. It was a gorgeous day with just enough cloudcover to act like a lens filter. We always have fun when we take photos and her new neighborhood offers many interesting architectural back drops. I was going for the "gritty-city" look!

Pam's Comfort Cables Afghan

2011-05-23T14:47:00.002-05:00

Monday, May 23, 2010

"I have the afghan around me right now, and it has given me several "hugs" along my journey.

You are an amazing group, your talents are endless, I'm awestruck and so honored. Thank you all, so much, for your generous talent and kindness. All my non-crochet friends are blown away by all of you." -Pam

Pam's words dissolved any and all stress I might have felt back in October 2010 when I committed to designing a cable crochet block to support one of my fellow crochet designers who was going through chemotherapy. Adding one more "have-to" crochet project to my already long list of "to-dos" with deadlines was a bit overwhelming at the time. I knew in my heart, though, that I wanted to do it and so I just got on with the task. Now that our booklet is released and selling for a good cause, I am proud and elated that I chose to be a part of this honorable crochet task!

Cable crochet is intriguing and challenging to me. I have taught it and I love the look of the finished cable; they are so elegant and sophisticated looking. Here's the square I designed:

When a dear, designer friend told us that she was fighting breast cancer, we wanted to let her know that we were thinking of her during this challenging time. We created this crocheted afghan using the colors she loves: grays and silver, and pink which represents her fight with breast cancer. We also incorporated her favorite stitch design, namely cables, for each square representing our love, prayers, and thoughts. We knew each time she wrapped this afghan around her, she would be reminded of our added strength, helping and comforting her as she made her way through this difficult journey. Pam is the "Queen of Cables" and she writes on her blog at:

You, too, can also help someone you know who is going through a difficult time. Crochet this afghan using the colors in this sample, or change them for your recipient. Work each square as given, placing them according to the schematic, or crochet only those squares you want to, and arrange them how you want. You can even crochet just one of the squares, 30 times. Your gift, however you make it, will be greatly appreciated and loved, and will give comfort, warmth and love when needed.

Including patterns from crochet designers such as Drew Emborsky, Diane Moyer, Karen Ratto-Whooley, Gwen Blakley Kinsler, Tracie Barrett, Dee Stanziano, Lisa Gentry, Margaret Hubert, Tammy Hildebrand, Angela Best, Kim Kotary, Mary Beth Temple, Jill Hanratty, Kristin Omdahl, Vashti Braha, Ellen Gormley, Marty Miller, Robyn Chachula, Amy O’Neill Houck, Annie Modesitt, Bendy Carter, Doris Chan, and Mary Jane Hall

Details about the book:
20 pages including front cover, table of contents, and contributor's page
24 cabled designs
100% of proceeds go to Pam Gillette

http://www.knitpicks.com/patterns/Pam’s_Comfort_Cables_Crochet_Afghan__D11064220.html

Innocence & Nostalgia

2011-05-10T14:47:00.001-05:00

Tuesday, May 10, 2011
A visit from a 17 1/2 month-old is all it takes to bring back memories of a by-gone era: child-rearing! Our special guest was our first and only grandchild, Chloe Marie. This was our first time to take care of her for any length of time; I had practiced putting her to bed many a time, though.

Our second grandchild is on the way and we are excited to be waiting on Chloe's baby brother to arrive in July. It was high-time for that winter get-away that didn't happen in winter for Chloe's parents. Time was running out for the baby moon, as well.

I'd say overall it was a great success. She is such a good natured little girl and we kept her plenty busy too. The weather cooperated so we were able to stroll to the park

for her favorite activity, swinging.

We also let her walk on her own two busy little feet plenty in the neighborhood. She got to spend time with her Aunt Bethie in the city and that was very exciting. The sights and sounds of the city, like trains trucks and airplanes really excite her, as well as the many other "babies" in strollers and dogs on leashes. For up close and personal doggie time, Beth lets Chloe play with her dog Tasha and her foster dog, Finley,

as well as a bonus detour to Urban Pooch where we viewed 20 or so daycare dogs through the viewing glass.

It is really nostalgic to be reminded of all that goes along with a child this young. All the "equipment" that is needed is vital to success and Nicole so thoughtfully didn't forget a thing! Truth be told, Chloe's favorite activity was opening the pantry and carrying cans and boxes to the family room table!

(Some things don't change!) It took me an hour to pack it all up when it was time yesterday to take Chloe to her other grandparents. Getting out the toys books from my daughters' childhood was nostalgia too. What worked then is still a hit today, for a couple of minutes anyhow!

Luckily for all, Chloe's concept of time isn't developed yet. She would say "Mama" when she say Nicole's picture on the wall and mentioned "Dada" at a man's voice on TV or when she saw the remote! From there, she seemed oblivious to her parents' absence and more than content with us. When she saw her other grandparents, it took about a half minute for her to warm up to them and then her allegiance shifted completely to them and she seemed oblivious to my departure. In the grand scheme, that is a good thing!

We were tired out, but so glad we could be of service and let the kids -Chloe's parents - get a well-deserved break! Mu Mothers' Day couldn't have been better: brunch with Auntie Beth & Chloe plus a great sentiment from Nicole in her card: "I'm so lucky to have a Mom like you. Now I feel like being a mom is the best job in the world." (This from my child who didn't like children at all during high school and college)

Having a Crochet Party and No One is Coming!

2011-04-25T10:14:00.001-05:00

Monday, April 25, 2011
I spent untold hours last week reading and replying to a thread over at the Crochet Liberation Front on Ravelry.com: "Disappointment in Stitches Midwest". Sponsored by Knitter's Magazine, the consumer show took on the moniker of "Stitches" years ago, presumably to be all-inclusive and to draw in all sorts of needle workers to spend their money on the show floor and in classes.

The original complaint in the thread was that the Stitches Show does not offer very many crochet classes, if any, here at their midwest venue. Throughout the thread (thousands of posts)there were developments. Crocheters starrted suggesting what they would like to take, teachers were disappointed that classes they proposed were not accepted and not filled; the director of the Stitches show joined in the discussion and told us all his woes of trying to include crochet and not having a profitable response. He said at one point his goal is to figure out the crocheters so he could meet our needs. Bottom line, there will be a meet-up with this director on the last day of the show to walk the show floor and TOGETHER gather some ideas of where to go next.

Some called it "going round and round". Others called it an "unprotected" environment where crocheter's insecurieties are measured against knitters in this knit-centric show. I call it a sincere attempt, YET AGAIN, to come to terms with the differences in crocheters and knitters and to try and bridge the gap by teaching respect ofor crochet and crocheters is a win-win for everyone.

If you a re a crocheter who has paid money for classes or does not want to do that, check here and join in the thread at CLF:: http://www.ravelry.com/discuss/crochet-liberation-front-headquarters/1604411/326-350#339
As someone who has been teaching crochet since 1982, I have tried many marketing techniques and have offered crochet in every venue imaginable! Here's just a few: park districts, continuing ed in school districts (14 years), Michaels stores, weaving conference, crochet/knit conference, local yarn shops, doll convention, the National Needlework Trade Association, STITCHES, (at least 6 times).

I have taught every thing from beginning crochet (2 week session, 8 week session, 12 weeks session) to tunisian, hairpin, block-a-week,bead-crochet,free-form, flatwork bead-crochet,Irish, modular, cables, edgings, etc. etc. I am a Craft Yarn Council of America Certified teacher with 40 years of teaching experience!!Ouch, that's a lot!

I have often wrested with the concept of what and how to teach. I don't consider handing a pattern to the student to follow as teaching, unless it is purely an exercise in how to read patterns. I include pattern reading in every class I teach. Over the years, I have found that it is the tips and tricks that crocheters need the most. They come to class with experience making blankets and scarves, but they don't know the finer points of good tchnique, holding the hook properly, counting, finishing, working in the beginning chain, tensionand most of all fiber content and quality. They need a lot of help to have a finished project that looks good.

Crocheters are a unique bunch, apparently. They have worked in isolation for so long having been snubbed by the yarn shops, that they have learned a lot on their own. Therefore, for many, they see no reason to go out into the fiber world and pay money to learn what they don't know. They are content to just repeat what thev've always done, repeating bad habits and bad technique. In the above mentioned thread about Stitches, it was my wish to hear from the crocheters themselves. I would love to know what they are thinking, what they are interested in and what they want to learn.

I am growing weary of offering racking my brain as to what to teach, making the class models and offering my enthusiasm, patience and knowlege, but having no one ( or just a few) sign up for classes. I find that the few that do sign up for classes are amazed at what they don't know, and thrilled to learn little simple techniques theat make their crochet life so much easier.

Here is what I am currently offering at my Crochet Parties at my local yarn store through June. Will you RSVP and tell me what you think?

Beginning Crochet Coin Purse

Intermediate Crochet Square-A-Week

Intro to Bead Crochet

AmigurumiStash Class

Tunisian Crochet Purse

Back in the Rat Race!

2011-04-12T15:25:00.001-05:00

Tuesday, April 12, 2011
It didn't take us long to fall back into our old ways and jump onto the rat-race wagon! Our first priority as we touched onto the mother soil was to see kids and, of course, Chloe Marie! Our first evening was spent with younger daughter, Bethany. She showed us around her workplace and new apt. and tool us to dinner at Spacca Napolitano. It was wonderful

Bright and early the next day we headed to MI to see the rest of the family. I think we were so in awe of Chloe and pretty tired on top of it, that I didn't even think to take pictures. Finally, on Monday, Nicole pointed out that I had taken none (highly unusal for me)!

She walks; she talks; she can say "Hi, Gigi" (Grandma Gwen). She calls Gramps Gigi too! (Grandpa Gramps) It works! She loves her books and here she is:

Nicole and Chloe

Four days after we arrived home, I was back at my local yarn shop (LYS) teaching beginning crochet. I had a great group and we finished their 2 sessions last week. Now, I move on to Intermediate crochet. I will just roll through the months with these two classes picking up crocheters as we go. It should be very satisfying to be birthing crocheters into the world every week!

We had friend Larry over for dinner and caught up with him. He did such a nice job caring for our plants while we were gone. they look very happy and healthy. It won't be long before they can go out on the deck for their summer respite.

It was wonderful to have Deb and Mike here over the weekend on the occasion of their daughter, Erin's, baby shower. We enjoyed a fabulous Sat. with a leisurely lunch at a new restaurant (for us), Cooper's Hawk, and a stroll through a sunny shopping center. Our weather transition has been great. Sat. it reached 90 and during lunch, it was very reminiscent of Ajijic.

Someone asked how it feels to be back, and truthfully, sometimes it feels like we weren't even gone for three months. We have jumped back in with both feet and 'm still pretty disorganized, but little by little we will settle back in. Putting off cooking a little longer, we will use a Christmas gift card tonight and go to Wildfire!

The chapter newsletter is done; Talking crochet is pretty much under control. There's no food in the fridge, but hey, in good time.

Last Week in Paradise

2011-03-29T12:50:00.001-05:00

Tuesday, March 29, 2011
I was super busy yesterday wrapping up our three-month stay here in Ajijic: last manicure; eating one last time at a favorite restaurant, Tony's; picking up the mail one last time; boxing up some things to leave in the house; working on technical difficulties with PayPal and wrestling with YouTube!

Life just doesn't slow down! I don't want it to! Well, maybe sometimes....I purposely didn't kill myself to blog last night because today is the launch of my new e-newsletter, "Talking Crochet" and I wanted to share the link with you! I am the newest editor and I write the newsletter once a month sharing it with another editor. This is the second edition of the newsletter that I have written and I don't know what happened last month; I didn't promote it. I was probably still so shocked that they approached me to be the Editor and so mesmerized by my new life in Ajijic, that I just plain forgot! If the link doesn't go directly to my latest edition, check the archives for March 29, 2011.
http://www.crochetmagazine.com/newsletter.php
Sign up to receive your own; it's free!

I've been wanting to do a video on bead-crochet forever. On April 3, I am launching a Bead-Crochet Crochet-Along (CAL) on my designer fan group on Ravelry. So, no time like the present to get my video tutorial up there on YouTube. If you are interested in learning bead-crochet, go to www.youtube.com and search
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcgBO14OE5Y
Basic Bead-Crochet 1 (of 3)
Basic Bead-Crochet 2 (of 3)
Basic Bead-Crochet 3 (of 3)
or click here:
If you already like to do bead-crochet, I hope you will join me on Ravelry for the CAL, April 3! http://www.ravelry.com/groups/cro-kweendesigns

Friend Sheila graciously invited us to make one last trip to Guadalajara to go shopping the the tourist area called Tlaquepaque (say that 3 times!) last Saturday. This is an area that features folk art from all around Mexico, as well as upscale derivations of same to meet the needs of modern homes all over the world. It is a "must-see" kind of place for us even though we already have tons of folk art from Mexico. Nevertheless, it is always inspirational.

This time there were two very special and divergent highlights. The moment we stepped out of our parking garage, we were captivated by a shop in which huge, colorful and almost floating flowers drew us in. At second look, what were they but mixed media with CROCHET! The crochet was combined with shapes made of some kind of printed plastic. Out of respect for the artist, I will not describe them in any more detail, but here is just one photo:

The second highlight was at a restaurant Sheila took us to for lunch: deep fried hibiscus flowers! We had never tasted this delightful appetizer, let alone heard of it! the thought of the crunchy goodness inside a spongy delicious tortilla covered with bleu cheese sauce still has me grinning!

Here are some views of our day in Tlaquepaque:

Del Corazon de la Tierra: Tribal Arts

Ajijic: An Artist Colony

2011-03-21T17:56:00.008-05:00

Monday, March 21, 2011
Most every region in Mexico, from Oaxaca to the Yucatan, has a rich history of folk art. Ajijic, where we have spent a very pleasant winter, is designated in guidebooks as an artist colony. It is true, there are numerous shops and boutiques where art is for sale. Foreigners with a bent toward the artistic seem to gravitate to this town and live out their later years fulfilling their desires to create art or explore their lifelong hobbies further. Indigenous artisans find their way to Ajijic to sell their wares at the weekly open-air market and along the lakefront of Lake Chapala which attaracts many visitors.

Today, I want to compile photos of the colorful artisans and their art. I may have mentioned some of them in passing over the last 10 weeks, but here they are all in one place in their glorious color and creativity.

Just everyday life: painting on a local house.

Metal sculptures in the plaza for Three Kings Day

Art on the walls at the Cultural Center

Art for Sale on the Plaza. They think nothing of reproducing works like Frida Kahlo!

Mural on the Plaza

A Cheerfully Decorated Shop

Painting on Our House: Casa Tecolote (Owl House)

Colorful Fruit Displayed Artistically to Simulate Aztec Pyramids

Mural on Chameleon Bar

Making Corn Husk Flowers

Making Leather Shoes

Cooking Tripe on the Street: An Art in Itself!

Huichol Bead Art

Ex-Pats Adding to Their Manual Skills: Bead-Crochet Class

Stitch Y Bitch: Mexico!

Inside a Gallery

Twig Art

Catrina

Our daughter's (and our) friend, Antonio, from Culiacan visited us yesterday. He brought us this unique gourd art which has added a colorful bit of cheer to our living room.

Antonio explained that this is the only folk art typical to his state of Sinaloa. It is primarily an agricultural state, producing corn and tomatoes. In fact there is a Campbell's Soup processing plant there.

We hadn't seen Antonio in five years and we had a wonderful visit with him!

Weaver From Oaxaca

I LOVE COLOR!!!!!

2011-03-14T19:28:00.003-05:00

Monday, March 14, 2011 I've known for a long time that I just can get enough of color. I also know that I have a very hard time paring down or limiting colors. especially when it comes to crocheting a project or starting from scratch to design one!

For 46 weeks now, I have been participating in a freeform crochet Crochet-Along: Freeform Fun & Fivolity. It is a special project on my designer Fan Page at Ravelry.
You can see photos of all of our creations here:www.ravelry.com/groups/cro-kween designs
I chose to do each of the weekly instructions in some shade of red. It is a study in red and dedicated to my mother and her favorite color.

A year sounded like a long time for this project, but now it is hard to believe that it will be over in just 5 more weeks. We have a group of about 54 enthusiastic free-formers and very creative crocheters. It is amazing to see what they come up with each week with their own interpretations of the instructions. Most instructions have been provided by the fantastic twisted1 and lupa (Ravelry names) and now and then they enlist the help of Designers for a Day (DFAD). They deserve a break now and then, and fresh energy comes through from the designers who don't have to come up with clever instructions that often.

We have an on-going chat thread also and track our progress with photos and conversation, supporting each other and sharing knowlege. We have all commented that we have learned so much from the wonderful crochet techniques provided each week.

Here is what I did this week from colorfool's (how appropriate!) instructions:

This is my progress so far on the entire piece.

As far as color goes, I am over-stimulated here in Mexico. It is a colorful place. The Mexicans use color in the most fascinating and unexpected ways, and each day is a new color adventure for me as I walk around the village. Then there are my fingernails which ended up a neon-orange after my manicure today! Here are some photos whose color palates excited me...and these are just from today!

Mother Nature's Confetti: The Jacaranda blossoms don't last too long, but when they fall they hold their color.

The growth of my bougainvilla has been phenomenal. I am so pleased!

Two-tone House

The Vista Looking onto our Neighborhood

What More Can I Say After This One? It's a Wrap!

The Evolution of a Banana and a Community

2011-03-07T12:26:00.007-06:00

Monday, March 7, 2011
One year ago today, I started a "Designer Fan Page" on Ravelry: Cro-Kween Designs.

Today we are having a virtual party all day, with games (first one in progress NOW), food, all kinds of Courtly craziness from the Kween's Minions and some surprises! The party will culminate in the Chat Room with the Kween starting at 3 pacific time. Join in if you can, with Royal questions or anything crochet-related for the Kween!
What started with just a member or two (hummywinger being one of the first!) has

grown to 426 as of today. We like parties here and every time we reach another 100 members, we celebrate and the Kween gives a prize!
One of our first Crochet-Alongs (CAL)at Cro-Kween Designs has been a very successful Freeform Crochet CAL. We call it "Freeform Fun & Frivolity" and in the able hands of Twisted1 and Lupa we have definitely had fun and we have been challenged by the weekly insrtuctions which allows us to create a crochet motif or segment to be added to our creation. We post photos of our progress on the thread

and chat about the steps, challenges and fun, plus all kinds of other silly chat by the Minions! It is unbelievable to see the vast variety that each and every freeform CAL participant comes up with. Their individual creativity and personality shines through in a myriad of ways from identical instructions presented to them! Amazing to see their projects grow!

Along the way, an international community has grown.

I have members in the group from 35 countries, last count. Our language of choice is English, but we accept any language and do our best to communicate and share with everyone. The creativity in the group is amazing and the passion for crochet is even more amazing!! We have threads where we post crochet-sightings and the Courtisans come up with some doozies! We also have a thread for yarn bombings and emanation is our most prolific bomber and she is real good at finding interesting bombings around the world too.

I have fabulous moderators who I consider to be "friends" even though we have never met face to face: twisted1, lupa and melbav, plus hummywinger who is not an official moderator but flutters around often and is so generous with her advice! They keep the excitement going and are always coming up with new ideas and ways to celebrate crochet and to learn from each other! There are some fascinating characters in the group and the further they push the crochet envelope, the more I love them. It has grown

to be a loving, fun and respectful community
where I check in each day to see what kind of crochet-excitement has been brewing. With members from the other side of the world, you never know what might have developed overnight!

Our latest CAL was just finished last week, "Embellished Purse CAL" under the able leadership of melbav. Today in our chat room, we will be announcing the winners in the three categories: "Fit for a Kween", "Crown Jewels" and "Jester." We had two judges and they said it was a very difficult task among all this talent to make a decision, but they got it done. There is a threaed with photos of all the entrants on the group.

Like the banana,

there has been a slow evolution of growth, beauty, sweetness and color and SO MUCH MORE!! Thank you Royal Courtisans for a wonderful year, for being YOU and for all your creativity, excitement and passion for crochet and for the fun and respect you've shown the Kween. I love you all and hope you enjoy this day and our virtual party!

My Week in Pictures:

Worked out at the Curves-like gym

Attended a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer Party celebrating the 50th Anniversary of JFK signing the papers to innaugurate the Peace Corps. Even got our picture in the local paper!

Went yarn and fabric shopping in Guadalajara with Sheila and Allende. Crocheted flowers for sale.

Stitch 'n Bitch no matter where you go!

Really cheap little rolls of acrylic yarn, about $1.00 per ball for those who can't afford any more than that at a time!

Watched my orange tree and hibiscus bloom.

Taught another bead-crochet class with Maggie and Carmen.

Checked out the saturday activities on the plaza. Listened to the band and had some greasy "sopes."

Had Sunday brunch at La Parilla Loca on the boardwalk at Lake Chapala in the town of Chapala, a short bus ride from our town of Ajijic.

Watched a Mardi Gras parade in Chapala.

Wearing Crochet Sells Itself!

2011-02-28T19:35:00.003-06:00

Monday February 28, 2011
Tomorrow is March 1 and it doesn't seem possible that we've been in our little Mexican abode for two months!

This past Saturday seemed to be the day for art shows; we took in three! The first one featured a new friend who was in my bead crochet class this week. She happens also to be from Chicago but lives here full time. She said she learned to drive and to paint since she came here. I was very impressed by her paintings.

I always try to put on some crochet or some interesting jewelry when I am among an artsy crowd. My choice this time proved to be potentially fruitful. I wore an incredible necklace of unusual beads made in Taxco that I have had since we lived in Mexico City in the early nineties.

I know the artist who created my necklace is dead now, but lo and behold, an artist, Andrea, at the second show we went to had a necklace for sale with the same unique beads. She hails from Augusta, GA, but spent a little time in Cuernavaca where I bought my necklaces!

Copyright laws are not really respected here. It is highly possible that the Taxco artisans who executed the silver beads for the artist who I bought my necklace from have continued making what he taught them, even after his death. It would make sense!

Anyway, since I've been here, I've sold two of the same necklaces that I invested in over 20 years ago and I have just one ring made with the same type of bead left. Andrea said she would be very interested in seeing it and maybe doing a trade.

That would be fun; she had lovely silver rings and said she used to own a "very exclusive" gallery in Augusta. She dropped the name, "Bill Gates." :)

My necklaces brought me into discussions with some other crafters and one in particular is very interested in private crochet lessons. I started talking to her because she was wearing earrings just like I have. Turns out I bought those earrings from HER in the weekly market several years ago!

The 3rd art exhibit we went to was in a very lovely setting

and I was really taken by the orchids that were growing so profusely!

My bead crochet last Wed. was a success, I would say. I had eight students who left happy with their newly acquired skills. For the majority, it was a bit of a struggle to get the hang of it. Here, apparently, not too many crochet with fine threads and steel hooks. That in itself, is an adjustment. Add the beads to the mix and as one put it, "you start seeing double."

They all had good attitudes which is always a relief-no whining which I really appreciate!

One of the women was very inspired by my Frida cabochon brooch which was in the display I showed all this students. She talked me into selling her my precious Frida pin from the Famous Faces Series!

I can and I will make another one!

A woman from my hometown, Ft. Wayne, IN, lives here full time now. She was an aquaintance of my brother and small world as it is, we met up here this week and had lunch to catch up on her learning curve since moving here lock, stock and barrel back in October. She has educated herself well and is rolling with the punches. It's Mexico; not everything goes as planned.

Some views from our walk on Saturday-we trekked up about 500-600 feet above our house:

View of the lake from above.

Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder

2011-02-21T15:59:00.006-06:00

Monday, February 21, 2011
The other day we were walking the long way back from a moving sale (more on that below) and passing through an area we usually don't trek to. We stopped at a little store called something like Fred's Deli, obviously designed for the Gringos, just to see what it might offer. Well,a pickle pimento loaf jumped out and grabbed me! Now, normally at home I avoid such things as that; you know non-nutritious stuff. Don't get me wrong, I love a good baloney sandwich once in a while, but you won't find a loaf of white bread or lunch meat in my frig as a rule!

Anyhow, I indulged in a quarter kilo of pickle pimento loaf and we made sandwiches out of some nice whole wheat bread we had. Yum, yum, that was good! Alan said we needed potato chips to go along with the sandwich! So, next trip to the grocery, that's what we got. Chips is another thing I don't keep on hand. If you have 'em ya eat 'em! But boy, they tasted good. It must be that we've been here for seven weeks now and are starting to miss things that remind us of home.

A lady who is moving out of country and has lived in many countries including Thailand and China had the garage sale we went to. I was not really in buying mode, but was interested in seeing the Catrinas that were advertised as signed by the artist.

Jose Guadalupe Posada was the first to depict Catrina as a "dapper skeleton" in his 1910 engraving.

fransintrouble-photobucket
Artists have been inspired since by this mix of typical Mexican sources: Indian Heritage (skulls, death goddesses) and Spanish Heritage (death orientation of manastic orders and dances of death)blended with the Mexicans' far from humorless view of death. They can be anything from brides to musicians to a group playing cards!

I did come away with a little treasure, however, a bag of "milagros" (tiny charms that are used in the Catholic Church with prayers). A special little silver Virgin charm was a surprised tucked in the bag that I didn't know about. It still had the price tag on which was more than I had paid for the lot. Yay, sweet success!

The 37th Annual Chill Cook-off happened this past weekend. Proceeds benefit Ninos Incapacitados (handicapped children) and other charities. Beginning with a parade starting from Six Corners,

it is a very festive event held at the water park on the edge of time and boy, it brings out the people. Kind of like a county fair or tiny Taste of Chicago, many of the local organizations promote themeselves and there is an art show along with food from many restaurants and tasting-to-vote for the chilli winners.
The best part for me was seeing a silver jeweler from Argentina who did exquisite and artistic work, for a price! Having lived in Mexico for two years in the late 80s and basically having spent my time on a shopping spree, I am pretty much done with buying small souveniers.

The Huichol Indians still hold a fascination with me,though, partly due to their shyness and reticence to be photographed. These pics cost me a dollar!

The man in teal color appears to have a better haircut than my husband! Go figure!

Oh, and the fact that our precious granddaughter, Chloe, began to walk over the weekend could be the absence that promted the theme this week! Thank goodness for our hi-tech daughter and the adorable video she sent us of the moment!

Each seed bead is painstakingly placed with tweezers onto wax to hold it.
I love their unique attire and they do incredible art. Their traders are known for their colorful yarn paintings and beadwork. You know how I like beads!

There are still some 50,000 Huichol Indians living in small villages in the Sierra Madre Occidental. They are known also for their secret religious rites which involves the hallucinogenic peyote cactus!

In Search of Virgins

2011-02-14T13:31:00.006-06:00

Monday, February 14 HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!

How ironic that I'm writing about Virgins on Valentine's day!

For a few years I have made a photo book commenorating our visit to Ajijic. One year it was "The Doors of Ajijic" and this year it is "The Virgins of Ajijic." One day last week, we had some free time and it was another beautiful day so we went out on a walk in search of them. They are common decorations on homes, over doors, or on the walls. Here are a few that we found.

A gaggle of virgins we saw in a store!

Some other interesting sights we saw on our walk.

Color, color everywhere!

We celebrated Valentine's Day on the weekend. Sat. night we went to Manix, a popular restaurant with the Gringos. They had a special typical Mexican meal for less that $10.00 each including dessert: chile relleno, beans,tacos, ribs, guacamole, and flan. A fun duo was playing very dancable gringo music too. It was a festive and fun group and I felt a little out of place because we didn't know anyone, but we did dance one slow dance!

Yesterday we went to the Lake Chapala Society (the local gathering place for Gringos and Canadians) for Souper Sunday sponsored by the Rotary. Yes, there's Rotary here and just about every other organization you can think of: Democrats, republican, Animal Shelter, etc.etc. A long time resident (and I will have to research her name) left the lovely hacienda to the Society. It has a video library, book library and it is where the many, many groups have their meetings.

There were supposed to be 17 soups provided by local restaurants for the $10.00 ticket, along with a cash bar for drinks and dessert between 12 and 3. We normally eat lunch around 2 PM so we planned to get there at 1:30. By that time they had run out of soup because they had over-sold tickets! We had the choice of just one, cream of poblano chile, but it was delicious! A little later another soup was delivered, vegetable pasta, so we did get enough to eat with the dessert we bought.

It was the first time for this event and I am sure they will do some tweaking for next year. There was an arts and craft show and music that added to the ambience of the festivity. All and all, I would say it was a big success because over 300 people attended. A nice couple from California sat at our table and they had been Rotarians there for thirty years and continue their volunteerism here.

The weekly open-air market. I am buying fresh coconut. I crave coconut!!

This one's for Doris Chan!

Today I had my first massage of the season and it was sensational. The nice part about it also was that I just had to walk a block to my neighbor's house where she has the whole set-up and supports a Mexican woman who comes there to do the massages. I described this house and its lovely garden in my post on 1/17/11. Surrounded by the incredible garden in full bloom is the small massage room which is right off the porch so it feels like it is open air. Rather than soothing music, I let my mind wander and was soothed by sounds of birds outside. The masseuse was very good. In fact, it might have been my best massage ever, especially since it only cost $24.00!!!! (including tip) I'll be going back in a month or so to fit one more in before we have to think about getting ready to leave here.

Caught in the Holiday Fray!!!

2011-02-07T18:33:00.001-06:00

December 4, 2010
Caught in the Holiday Fray!!!
Where did last Monday go? Can anyone tell me? Not only am I trying to keep up with the ideas for designs that keep popping in my head, but I am also trying to get some handmade gifts done for the holidays. Then there is the matter of preparing for Thanksgiving, but that's not so bad as dear daughter, Nicole is hosting. Throw in a pre-Thanksgiving visit to dear Dad and a surprise birthday party for cousin Alan while we were there. Good news is that we were already there so didn't have to make a special visit for the birthday party.

Throw in another week in MI to babysit sweet baby Chloe while her parents fly off to Miami for a well-deserved get-away to somewhere warm. I am thrilled to have the opportunity and maybe I will get some crocheting done while she naps if I am not too exhausted from chasing a one-year old around the house! Getting a Chloe-fix will be good since we will be away from her for three months this winter while in Mexico.

I was reminded this past weekend that two of my niece's daughters LOVE rocks. I decided I must cover a couple of rocks for them for a present and got started on one today. What fun! I think they will be thrilled and it will be a special rock in each of their collections.

"Never too old to earn a buck," I say, and last week that proved true for me. As with most things in my life, there is a connection to yarn. A while ago one of my crochet students and I had a conversation about speaking Spanish and she works for a lawyer. Her office was in need of an interpreter and I told her I could do it. Miraculously, when the person was served her summons, she began to speak English! Anyway, Rosemary remembered me when another lawyer in her building needed an interpreter last week. This one worked out and I went to Court and interpreted for a divorce case. I'm more experienced in medical interpreting and this was my first time with legal interpreting. I was a bit nervous. It wasn't 100% perfect, but we got through it just fine. Hopefully, this lawyer will call me next time she needs help.

I also went to a craft fair over the weekend with my sister-in-law and same niece and that gave me dozens of more ideas!!! My fingers just can't craft fast enough. Isn't crafting supposed to be enjoyable and relaxing?? I always seems to be behind the eight ball and rushing to get a project done so I can start another and I always have at least four started and laying in wait. I am not complaining, I am having a blast and will enjoy sending off each and every gift.

The festivities start tonight when I join Las Chicas (my Spanish coversation group) for dinner at Tacos Al Norte, a new palce for us. Sadly, Barbarita will be missing as she had to fly out to CO. Her son was hurt in a skiing accident and was to have surgery on his back. Our thoughts will be with her tonight.

What We Like and Dislike!

2011-02-07T18:25:00.008-06:00

Monday, February 7, 2011
We've kept busy since I last reported in. Friday evening we walked to the home of artist, Javier Zaragoza, to see an exhibit of his works. The notice in the paper promoted his garden as an attraction and that drew my interest. It was well worth the walk to the far west end of town to see his lovely garden setting.

Snuck a picture of Alan (wink, wink)

Zaragoza himself dancing!

Things are beginning to come together for us after being here for 5 weeks. We are beginning to see familiar faces now. Javier was one of the judges in the walking cane decorating contest last weekend. He is reknown for his mural painting in Chapala. The band we enjoyed at the Tarahumara fundraising event was at Javier's providing lovely music and even got some to jump in and dance. We ran into Donna bead-crochet student)and her husband at the exhibit also. After enjoying the pleasant evening and atmosphere and some simple appetizers, we headed home.

Saturday found us doing some transplanting in the yard. Things grow so profusely here that sometimes different plants get all entangled! I hate that! I have been watching gorgeous lily flowers peeking out from under the geraniums for long enough! I dug up the bulbs and moved them forward in front of the geraniums so they can breathe and flourish! Same thing happened with the star jasmine. It was being smothered by the honeysuckle. So, I cut out all the honeysuckle and moved the roots. Now the star jasmine is flourishing and new blooms are appearing daily.

Its heavenly scent blows onto the patio and that's just what I had in mind!

A vibrant lily.

I've been neglectful of the lowly geraniums. They are really quite nice and bloom profusely.

We walked down to the pier and had It was really tasty and I had chilaquiles which is grilled chicken on top of crispy tortillas then covered in green sauce and melted cheese. Yum. We particularly enjoyed the robust coffee and great strawberry jam on fresh bread.

A HUGE eucalyptus tree we passed on our walk.

Alan spent the afternoon trimming the orange tree and harvesting over 200 oranges.

We've been giving them away and I think I'll try to freeze some. The gardener says he wants to spray the trees and that's why we had to pick all of the fruit.

Today we had hoped to go to the movies and walked there, but there was nothing on that we wanted to see. This is the third time we've gone there to try and see TRON! It is a new complex and they haven't started putting ads in the paper yet. Go figure? No problem, we just considered it our daily walk and swung by Walmart for a few necessities!

As my title says, I am going to list of few of the quirky things here in Ajijic that we like and dislike after being here for 5 weeks.
Dislikes:

-missing the kids and grandbaby. Thank goodness for video chat!
-mashing potatoes with a potato masher (non-electric)
-feeling like we "should" get up before the maid arrives on M-W-F. I have stopped worrying about what she thinks of seeing me in pajamas!
-the small TV is not so bad, but I do wish we had DVR. If I miss a favorite show, I miss it! Ah, but I set my DVR back at home to record all my favs; so I will have some catching up to do if I miss something here!
-no rain and dusty shoes

Ya know, as I started the list of things I don't like, I realized that there is always a solution. Even if something isn't solvable, there is probably something different that can take its place in the "like" column. Maybe its best to just have a likes column.

Likes:
-the view from my kitchen window

-no rain
-long walks
-the hummingbird showing up twice a day to re-fill at the flower station!
-the local artisans

We passed this man standing on the corner weaving a fishing net. He allowed me to take a few shots of the proces

-warm sun on the patio and following its path as the day goes on.
-frequently being in awe!
-having DSL internet in the house; it is our connection to family and life back home
-watching flowers bloom each day in my yard.
-having so many fruit trees in the yard and fresh orange juice daily
-weekly open-air fresh vegetable and fruit market
-buying prepared Mexican-style foods at Walmart and not having to cook
-really inexpensive meals when we go out to eat. It has gotten more and more expensive here, though, over the years that we have been coming.
-weekly crochet and knit group-it's called "A String Thing" here
-enjoying the slow pace here; lots of spare time to read and crochet!
-I actually enjoy hanging clothes out to dry on the line in the sun.

I Birthed a New Bead-Crocheter Today!

2011-01-31T18:51:00.004-06:00

Monday, January 31, 2011
I always like to say, "A new crocheter was born into the world" when I teach someone how. Today it was a private lesson with friend, Donna, in bead crochet. Bead crochet is not for the feint of heart. Donna has knitted and crocheted all her life and she did great with her first lesson. After the normal initial period of awkwardness and feeling of frustration, she regained a normal breathing pattern and went at it again. Doing much better, she reminded herself that as with any new skill there is awkwardness to begin with.

Here are some pictures that illustrate that the initial "new-skill jitters" are well worth it!

Donna's lesson was a warm-up for the class I will be teaching on Feb. 23 at A String Thing (weekly crochet/knit group) here in Ajijic. I hope to have up to 7 students for that class. I really DO love sharing my love of bead crochet!

This must be the Season, but I find it so amazing and enjoyable to watch the flowers blooming in our yard. The air is so fresh and the sun so intense that I can see them progressing mm X mm daily. We've had one gladiola open and it's unfolding was beautiful. Unfortunately, I didn't get a shot of it. I swear my bougainvilla is growing inches per day.

There is a story behind it which makes this so satisfying. Last year I had to have a talk with the gardenr because he kept trimming the bougainvilla and chopping off the flowers. To me, a huge part of the thrill of this house it its bougainvilla. The chopping had to stop!!

Bird of Pradise-Amazing!

Delicate little Lantana flowers-a new one each day!

We hopped on a bus on Sat. and went to Chapala, a 30 minute ride. We wandered on the pier by Lake Chapala (the largest lake in Mexico) enjoying the sun and the market. We had lunch at El Sapote (the frog) and happened on to an art competition at the American Legion. Artists decorated wooden walking sticks and winners were chosen.

Profits from the sales benefitted the Rotary. You had to be there!

We stopped to admire a house and saw this band lugging their instruments to a gig!

This Week in Ajijic

2011-01-24T17:00:00.004-06:00

Monday January 24, 2011
Another week in paradise; time seems to be flying. Last night we met up with a couple from our home town-friends of friends-due to the beauty of the internet we were connected and had a really nice time comparing notes about life her in Ajijic. They have come down for the last 3 years and always rent a place for 4-6 months. We had a pretty good Chinese dinner together at a non-Chinese restaurant, Roberto's, last night. They even offered "PF Changs-style Lettuce Wraps." That's a hoot! I had the honey walnut shrimp that was just about as good as I've had in Chinatown, Chicago.

We also had our first forwarded mail arrive at Mailboxes Etc. since we've been here. My Defining Crochet! magazine was included in the lot, so that was fun!

A nice long walk to the boardwalk in late afternoon.

A dead tree in the lake where egrets perch.

Once the sun begins to set, it happens really fast!Maybe the Tecate and guacamole at the restaurant on the pier distracted us a bit!

I've crocheted quite a bit this week and was able to concentrate on my on-going freeform crochet project. This is a year long process that I sponsor on my designer page on Ravelry. For those of you who know Ravelry.com, I am crochetkween there and my group is cro-kween designs. We get an instruction once a week and these stitches or process is added to our piece. We only have 12 weeks to go and it is hard to believe. We have created a very friendly and talented community there.

I have dedicated my creation to my mother, Dorothy who died on Dec. 29, 2009. Her favorite color was red and that is my inspiration. I am using only shades of red.

This is my progress so far. The process has been very inspiring and challenging.

A Photo Essay of My Week

2011-01-17T12:13:00.005-06:00

Monday, January 17, 2011

It takes a lot of planning and thinking to move thousands of miles from home for three months! I am finding out how convenient it is to have a lifetime of collections at my fingertips at "home." I have lots of time to crochet here, but I am finding that with each project I start, there is some little niggling thing that hangs me up: the gorgeous "Fat-Bottom Purse" in linen-no handles; Anniversary Miser Purse-no plastic ring to connect the chains (that one was resolved at the hardware store-yay! commplete!); cute little scarf from Vicki Howell, but didn't have the right yarn. No matter, I made it anyway.

It turned out too big, but that's okay. It will make a nice gift one day when I need one in a hurry. As they say here, "asi es la vida." (Such is life).

I'm not complaining. In April when I am back in my studio, I will have a week when I rangle all those niggling little things together and I will look like a Super-Crocheter finishing so much in one week!

Here are a few photos that show a bit of our life this week in Ajijic.

Our Casita

While we were on a walk, I spied this very dead-looking vine clinging to a wall. "Perfect for yarn=bombing," I thought.

The Queen adorning Mother nature with crochet

Close Up: Flowers in black (death) with a touch of pink (hope). The lady sitting nearby on the street selling candy and chips was convinced that this vine will flower again when the rains start in May. Let's hope so. Meanwhile, it is a study in texture and fiber.

We went to an art show at a gallery. The murals on the walls were as interesting, if not moreso, than the art! Picture this mural running up the wall and then continuing overhead. Impressive!!

While walking in our neighborhood, we were admiring the bougainvilla and the owner saw us. She invited us in to see her garden. WOW, she has a GREEN thumb. I was most impressed with a piece of volcanic rock that had a small hole in it which she filled with the tiniest of cati (1/2"). One even had a bloom. Miraculous!

Poinsettas grow wild here!

I am watching my bougainvilla grow by the inches everyday! Note the contrasting colors over the neighbor's wall against the sky.

Bottle Brush plant

Art Show on the Plaza
Both Americans and Mexicans participate.

After the show, we went to LaBodega Restaurant where they were holding a fundraiser for the Tarahumara Indians of the Copper Canyon. A woman from here drives there once a year and delivers blankets which are donated by the community. Apparently they go down into the canyon in winter to stay warm and still it is very cold for these cave dwellers. We gave a really heavy blanket in hopes that it will warm someone this winter.
The pasta buffet wasn't exactly what we were expecting, but we enjoyed it, especially the guacamole! A portion of the meal sales went to the Tarahumara also. To learn more, there is an easy read on Wikipedia:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tarahumara

Ya Get Whatcha Pay For

2011-01-10T15:50:00.001-06:00

Monday, January 1, 2011
If you like what I write, become a FOLLOWER!

A few designers have been chatting and we have decided to band together on an educational mission. We want the crocheting, pattern-reading community to know and understand what goes into the creation of a crochet design/pattern.

For those of you not interested in the process of designing, I have summarized so you can skip that part. To see a photo essay of my first week in Ajijic, Jalisco, Mexico scroll down.
-An innate sense of wonder is essential to translate inspiration to design
-A "day job" helps pay the bills!
-Time and little need for sleep!
-Physical act of making the product
-Writing the pattern instructions
-Layout, graphics illustrations, diagrams
-Photography, digital retouching
-Marketing: social media, blog, newsletters

Submitting an idea to a magazine or book publisher requires TIME.
I must admit that many, many of my design ideas come to me in the shower! Right there I am saving the pattern-buying public money because I am multi-tasking. I don't usually sit down at a drawing board and say to myself, "Okay, now it is time to design such and suc." I could view an object while I am on a walk; I could view a stitch pattern in a "crochet bible"; I could view a skein of yarn. Suddenly an inspiration pops into my head; and I think and think about what I could do with that inspiration.

Many of the designs that I have created have first been done for my own enjoyment, as an experiment or as something I wanted to make and wear. I could have enjoyed wearing it for some time or it could have laid around for months until I found a place where this design would find a home and fit in perfectly.

It is extremely difficult to make a living as a designer!!!! Having a shuga momma or poppa helps a lot! On this plan, the designer is not encumbered with the interruptions of a day job! There is a very elite group of designers who actually are making a living as designers and I even have my doubts about how well their "living" is. One would have to be cranking out AT LEAST one design per day and submitting each design somewhere daily and having each design accepted daily, as well, to keep the paychecks flowing fast enough. Most, I would say, get a huge charge from seeing their name and their design in print. From there, when the going gets tough, they throw in the towel and go back to their real life.

Submitting a design to a magazine or book publisher requires CONFIDENCE.
What makes me think that an editor would be interested in one of my designs? That is the never-ending question. Sometimes the editor is not even sure what she/he wants!! I have submitted an idea eights months in advance of when it would be published and have had an editor come scurrying to me wanting that idea "yesterday." Somehow, the stars were aligned and my idea fit perfectly with whatever she/he is thinking so she needs it NOW.

I have been crocheting for thirty-nine years! That's a lot of practice. Some people have practiced for that long but never ventured very far away from a couple of stitches. Thanks to the Crochet Guild of America (CGOA), the Embroidery Guild of America, and the National Needlearts Association, I have taken countless classes and have been exposed to an infinite wealth of knowlege through the other crocheters, teachers and designers whom I have met. I have spent countless thousands of dollars honing my skills at crochet conference classes, local classes, buying books, magazines, volunteering my time on committees and projects. It is all part of the learning process.

Time builds confidence, as does feeling a sense of belonging that comes from membership in communities such as CGOA, Ravelry and Facebook. Unless I try, submit my ideas and wait, I won't know if an editor likes my designs. Time and experience has also taught me that I must be prepared to *accept* *rejection"!!

Submitting an idea to a magazine or book publisher takes SKILL.
Not only does an idea need to be firmly embedded in the head, but it also must be physically possible to execute. I may need to experiment and try several techniques or stitches to actually get the object to look the way I envisioned it in my mind. This could take hours or days, depending on how intensely I want to persevere with it. Swatching is a practical and quick way to test stitches to determine if the proposed concept drapes beautifully or holds it shape stiffly. From there, math becomes the designer's friend. Gauge is extremely important and must be accurate in order for a finished garment, or even a crocheted piece of jewelry, to fit the intended size of person. Counting and measuring....a perfectly shaped and perfectly fit garment cannot be created without these.

Taking classes, attending conferences, sharing with other designers and on the job training, studying crochet books and teaching are all essential parts that lead the way to obtaining these skills.

Submitting a design to a magazine or book requires Non-Crochet Skills.
Unless we can afford to hire others to do the following tasks, we must somehow learn to do photography, graphics and layout as well as marketing.

I've rambled on long enough and I think you must understand. So, the next time you choose between a free pattern on the internet (which may have been stolen from a legitimate designer and copied for sale) and one you pay for, think of the sincere effort put into the professional pattern and the skills that the designer paid for in blood, sweat and tears. Reward the professional designer with a pattern purchase!
We are no different than lawyers or doctors who have spent years in training and many hours and dollars in education. We have skills that are unique to our profession and we deserve respect!

A photo collage of our first week in Ajijic:

The boardwalk (malecon) along Lake Chapala

New sculpture on the main highway near our house

You don't often see murals or doors like this in the states-maybe in Santa Fe

The plaza in Ajijic, Three Kings Day display, church on the plaza

The bougainvilla couldn't be more brilliant!

My Internet Life Continues

2011-01-04T12:47:00.001-06:00

Although I am miles and miles away from where I posted last week, my life on the Internet remains the same! Although my view out the window is SO different: bougainvilla dripping down the walls of our house

instead of bitter cold sunny days, I can keep in close touch with family and friends, plan new activities for Cro-Kween Designs my Ravelry design page, and post photos of my latest design and article that has just appeared in Crochet! magazine. http://www.crochetmagazine.com/webbonuses.php?_id=292

It's amazing; no, downright miraculous. Hubby and I are so thorouhly addicted to the internet that it is a really good thing that our house has dsl internet. What you say? How can that be in Mexico, a country often perceived as somewhat backward? Well, yes, there's that. Here are some examples of what we are adjusting to:
-We only have a two-cup coffee pot in a land where the coffee is so rich, fragrant and delectable to a couple who are ALSO addicted to caffeine! Something is not right with this picture!
-Tap water is not safe to drink, so we put $5.00 worth of coins on the curb with two big 240 ml (6.4) gallon jugs on top and voila! Along somes a friendly fellow twice a week to deliver full jugs and hook them up to the dispenser!
-We don't have a car ; we could but we figure it is forced exercise to walk everywhere in our little village. Yesterday we did our first grocery run and thankfully Alan took the back pack. We went to the closest grocery which is probably only 5 blocks and carried home everything easily. We did decide to skip the liter of Diet Coke as our load was getting large. That's for today's list as we explore a different grocery.
-We have to get up before 9:00 am on Mon. Wed. and Fri. unless we want the housekeeper to walk in and see us being slow-to-get-started (lazy!)
-We can't flush toilet paper....but then it is the housekeeper's job to empty the wastebaskets! Am I offering TMI? Hi Jeff!!

So, that's some food for thought. We've settled in slowly and unpacked. I've found a place for everything and am getting itchy fingers to re-arrange some furniture to make it feel like home. We brought over 200 pounds in our luggage and lucked out without any overage fees. Don't ask. Everything arrived, I think. I am missing one crochet work-in-progress but am sure I will find it once I get to making a quick search around the house.

Our tree is loaded with oranges ready to be squeezed daily for breakfast juice!

Packing Frenzy: Yarn In Yarn Out

2010-12-29T15:00:00.000-06:00

Wednesday, December 29, 2010
One year ago today my mother died. It is a sad day, but maybe by tomorrow we will be over that one-year hump. I talked to Dad and he, of course, is sad today, but he made decisions : he took Jack, his doggie, on a long car ride and he accepted an invitation to go to my brother's house for dinner tonight. Good work, Dad. Tomorrow is another day!

Three days and counting until we board the plane to Mexico on Jan. 2. The luggage has been setting out for weeks and I have slowly packed every essential I think I can't live without for three months! I worked really hard last right through the 23rd and this week I am finding very little on my schedule. So...as always, I continue to crochet. I have dipped into the yarn that I had packed and finished two really quickie neckwarmers. The mostly chains neckwarmer in the Winter issue of KnitSimple was a one-night project and I found the Debbie Bliss Donegal Tweed Chunky very scratchy on my neck. So, I took it to my LYS yesterday for Chris to use as a shop model.

I won't be needing too many neckwarmers in Mexico! She explained that she has heard that it gets very soft when washed, so she is going to do that with my neck warmer. It is wool and angora.

I moved on, then, to Besesme, a free pattern from Berroco. I used Classic Elite Sprout in a very Mexican color-tangerine. It is 100% cotton and I iwll love wearing it out on the town on those cool evenings in Ajijic. It also is very simple and mostly chains, but a two-night project.

Pulling those yarns out of the mix nade way for some more yarn: tiny snippets of many little swatch skeins all in Mex-centric colors. A dent has been created where my laptop will fit. That's a good thing!

I plan to be in touch with my usual contacts stateside and I also plan to rev up the activity on my "Crochet in Ajijic" group on Ravelry. Hmmmm, three days yet to go over the list of things to take and to crochet to my heart's content...the "mix" could be really different than I imagined by the time we board. Oh, and I must have a project to work on in flight!

BOOK REVIEWS: Contemplative Crochet by Cindy Crandall Frazier

2010-12-23T10:06:00.000-06:00

Contemplative Crochet: A Hands-On Guide for Interlocking Faith and Craft by Cindy Crandall-Frazier
Woodstock, VT: Skylight Paths Publishing, 2008. Soft cover, 187 pages; $16.99
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_21?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=contemplative+crochet&sprefix=contemplative+crochet

December 22, 2010
Contemplative Crochet is a good read. I’m a “soft-sell” for any theme that puts the spotlight on crochet as an important influence on those who are seeking positivity while here on earth. My intense passion for crochet is intertwined into my daily life and I have written about how it is connected to my outlook on the world. Cindy’s book, however, amazed me and I was moved in many ways. It called to me as I read it cover-to-cover in two days!
Cindy Crandall-Frazier is a talented writer who has done a fantastic job of combining her passion for crochet and her passion for striving to live a faith based life. Passionate and seasoned crocheters will be amazed and proud at the same time by the vast number of examples that elevate their beloved craft to new heights. Newcomers to the craft will be educated and convinced that they have chosen a valuable way to spend their time.
She has divided the book into ten thoughtful chapters that guide the reader through each topic. Cindy’s consistent and logical manner makes reading this book a joy and a resource for realizing the potential that the rhythm of the crochet hook has for broadening our spiritual dimension.
Each chapter is chock-full of well-researched historic and philosophical references that illuminate Cindy’s premise. Anecdotes from her life and faith as a Quaker are thought-provoking and in no way “preachy.” A crochet project in each chapter incorporates its message or invites contemplation through the stitches. I hesitate to even mention the black and white photos because in the scheme of things they are minor, but want you to know that I noiticed-they could be much sharper. Finally, a set of questions at the end of each chapter encourages “deeper thinking and listening for the Spirit.”
As founding “mother” of the Crochet Guild of America (CGOA) looking over a flock of highly capable crocheters, I am always thrilled when I see contributions from the talented members. Cindy has definitely tapped into the resources of CGOA and the experiences of many familiar members as she highlights Noreen Crone Findlay, Karen Klemp (Past President), Melody MacDuffee and Carol Ventura to name a few.
Contemplative Crochet is a gift from Cindy to us all. I highly recommend that you own a copy and buy this superb gift for a stitching friend! My only regret is that I didn’t read this book sooner!

My World is About to Change!

2010-12-20T13:26:00.000-06:00

December 20, 2010: I am feeling under control, but should I? In 12 days, we will be boarding a plane with two suitcases each, plus a carry-on with all the worldly possessions that will sustain us for three months while we are wintering in Ajijic, Jalisco, Mexico!! That's not to say that we won't be able to buy something critical that we've forgotten. Of course, we will. We can even most likely purchase any medications we might need, without a prescription. But we're not going to forget those. It is the yarn and patterns and stitch guid that I am worried about!

The shopping is done, the presents are under the tree; the menu is set and I have started some preparations for the meal. We have a tradition of doing hordeurves and desserts on Christmas day. I am soooo looking forward to having our children and precious granddaughter here.

Chloe turned one on November 24, 2010.
We will eat, laugh, play games, laugh and then have to say good bye for three months. I will MISS them terribly, but this is part of our dream that must be played out. I have a feeling that the three months will fly by, and then we will step back into our world that is Rolling Meadows, IL and resume where we left off!

Once the kids leave, we will move into "super-charged" mode and take down the tree and all the decorations (I put up less this year!) and make one final check of everything in the house and then zip it all in the suitcases so we're ready to go.
One of my suitcases is designated as the one to carry the yarn! I can buy yarn in Ajijic! Dear friend Sheila has quite a stash, and she is willing to sell. It's just not the same; I need a sense of feeling prepared. I have plans. I have things that need to be completed because they have been accepted by a magazine to be published. There is a deadline to meet!

As we get closer and things begin to take shape, this is seeming less like a vacation and more like a "transfer" to another part of the world to continue our work! Alan will be working half-time and I have work to do too. HOWEVER, it's another world that we will be living and working in. We will be immersed in the Mexican culture and it is a much slower pace. It will be warm, well warm-ER. Nights have been getting down to 35 degrees; that's better than 20, but not much. We don't have central heating there either-just a space hearter. No worries. It WILL get warmer with each week that passes and we are counting on the sunny days to reach 75 degrees! Everything we do will take longer and we will have no car. We will walk everywhere. Ah, enforced exercise. That's a good thing!

Stay tuned.......I will be reporting weekly as usual on how our adjustment to semi-retirement is playing out.

Good news on the home front......One of the a artists from my upcoming book on crochet as art, Carol Hummel, is coming to the area to do an installation at the Morton Arboretun in Lisle, IL. Oh, this is so very exciting. She first gained crochet fame when she covered trees in front of City Hall in Cleveland Heights, OH with CROCHET! back in 2005.

Carol Hummell working on a tree in Cleveland Heights, OH.
Crocheters in the area will have the opportunity to participate by coming to the workshops in Jan. Feb. and Mar. and learning to make "lichen." I am so sorry that I won't be here for those, but I look forward to seeing the installation when it is up in the Spring.

Our CGOA chapter has decided to get involved in any way we can as the installation date nears (April 3, 2011). We are volunteering our services and the folks at the arboretum seemed very grateful for our offer.

Late Blooming Crocheter

2010-12-13T11:54:00.000-06:00

December 13, 2010: I have interviewed many a crocheter for publication in various magazines and newsletters. A common "thread" runs through those conversations: they've learned to crochet at a young age from their grandmothers. Moms don't seem to be the best teachers; but put a generation between and the warm touch of Grandma's hand creates lasting memories and crochet skills.

I'm different (well, you know that already!); I didn't learn until I was twenty two. That's not to say that I was deficient in handwork skills. No, I was experienced in embroidery and cross stitch. I was surrounded by needleworkers. My mother and grandmother were seamstresses who created wonderful stay-at-home businesses for themselves in an age when the "independent woman" was unique. My grandmother also did very delicate tatting.

In my sixth decade now, I am, of course, constantly being reminded that it is important to keep the mind active to avoid the perils of old age, dementia, etc. So, I never hesitate to accept a challenge, in my crochet or otherwise. It feels good to me. Unlike some who seem stymied by a difficult task, I seem to thrive when being challenged.

An article I clipped recently from AARP magazine, sheds some encouraging light on the subject: "Studies of brain plasticity are proving that our creative horizons need not narrow with age. 'We never lose the potential to learn new things as we grow older,' says Gay Hanna, head of the National Center for Creative Aging. 'In fact, we can master new skills and be creative all our lives.'"

"Nor are we genetically hardwired with artistic gifts--or lack of them. Environmental factors and willpower are just as important. 'Genes impact ourlives,' says David Shenk, author of The Genius in All of Us, 'but our lives also impact our genes--the brain changes shape according to the experinces it has.''"

"The implications of this are profound, he believes: 'Most of us don't understand that our true inner potential is quite extraordinary. The main reason people stagnate is that they limit themselves through their mind-set or habits. Or they simple set their sights too low.'"

Watch the creativity of the featured artists in action at aarp.org/genius

As I am packing my TWO suitcases for our three-month stay in Ajijic Mexico, I keep slipping over the edge of reason to panic. My plan is to FINALLY concentrate on including hispanic, latin-inspired themes in my designs. What better way to be inspired that to be living it every day? I have ventured into this area of design before, but want to distinguish my work with the color and excitement from the world I love. So, I've gathered trinkets that I collected years ago while living in Mexico City to take along and threads/yarns with the appropriate colors. The precious trinkets have waited way too long to be used and viewed. It is time. I just keep going over the list and hoping I am not forgeting anything.

I've gathered some bright and sparkly beads which I will offer in a class on my favorite technique, bead-crochet, in February. I have started brewing some excitement on Ravelry.com/groups/ Crocheters in Ajijic and I hear I already have 3 people interested before I even arrive! I will start them off with a simple bracelet
and hope to inspire them tips and tricks that will expose them to the potential of bead crochet.

So what if I have fogotten something that I really thought I would need? I know I will learn new "tricks" from my students; I always do! They will turn me on to new resources for sparkly beads and threads and places to go for inspiration. I already have a tentative date to meet a Ravelry friend in Guadalajara to explore yarn stores.

Semi-reitrement? It is supposed to be a relaxing and slower pace. Well, I don't know about that, but I do know that the anticipation of how we will spend our days, busy or lazy, is exciting more that scary for me!

1,000 Santas

2010-12-06T16:10:00.000-06:00

What could be better than sighting 1,000 Santas decked out in full red garb running past me in the street as I arrive at the yarn store to teach a Saturday morning class?

A beautiful snow had fallen during the night and the police blocked the street so the Santas could take off running just as the store was opening. I didn't even mind having to walk two blocks from where I had to park. The sight was awe-inspiring; especially knowing from my friend, Linda, that the Rotary Club organizes this annual run to fund their national and international programs.

My class, a Crochet-Along (CAL) to make Doris Chan's Tokyo Vest in Tahki Cotton Classic Lite, has been going on for 3 months. My four students work pretty independently on the project and check in once a month with questions they may have and to get any help that is needed. Thank you, Doris! It has been a great learning experience for all of us! I truly wish Gail had not left quite so early because our picture would have been more colorful: the beige and gey you see her plus Gail's red version. Any color chosen in this fine yarn would be wonderful, but then I LOVE color!

Even though my younger daughter Bethany knows how to crochet and has made hat, scarf, baby hat and an afghan, she casually asked me to make her just one more thing before Christmas! "Or for New Years if Christmas is too soon." Well, it is a ying and a yang situation here: I am super-delighted that she loves the Crochet Crop Cardigan by Monica Brown well enough that she wants another one!
I made hers in color black Classic Elite Premiere for the Classic Elite KAL/CAL in the Fall at Fuzzy Wuzzy Yarn Store and it took me weeks and weeks, but turned out beautifully, was not hard to make and the best part, Bethany loves it. Now she wants one in grey!

I think the best idea is to suggest that she make it for herself. She can do it and it would be a great experience for her to learn to read patterns on this relatively simple top down top. I think I'll look into that!

Type-A Crochet

2010-12-01T14:42:00.000-06:00

For type-A personalities who like to stay organized, keep on track and get things done, isn't crochet a strange bedfellow? Now, now, don't panic; I'm not going to give up crocheting. I have just been mindful this week that here it is Wed. and my vow to post on Mondays went by the wayside. I have been skittering around in a mad rush all week, post Thanksgiving, crocheting in the car; crocheting between wrapping presents that have to be amiled, thinking about packing for Mexico, teaching crochet; crocheting to finish gifts.

I JUST NEVER GET DONE AND NEVER SEEM TO STOP BEING IN A RUSH! Isn't crochet supposed to be relaxing? I am still having fun, though, and loving my crochet still. The ideas keep coming to my head; and anyone who crochets knows that it is SO much fun to start a project! It must be the weekly hanging out in the yarn shop that is so stimulating. I know for a fact that it's where I get a lot of ideas.

Ideas come from everywhere, actually. That's a problem. Too many ideas; too little time. Not complaining. I just keep putting one hook in front of the other and I rejoice each time a project is finished. I get a thrill when I can add a photo to my online photobook on Ravelry.com.What is it about us type-As and the crochet? How do we tolerate the slow pace of our beloved craft? It must be the rhythmic movements that lull us into a sense of relaxation, yet all the while allows our type-A minds to keep revolving around ideas, solutions, and what to do next!

I mentioned the rocks last week....they are done and they have names. They are photographed; wrapped and in the box ready to go.
Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree, front:

Back:

I Love Rocky Road, Front:

Back:

Well, the time has come; the clock is ticking. I have miles to go before I meet former work friends for dinner. I'll run to the mall for a gift card from a specialty store for a family we are supporting for Christmas at the gym. I will run down the road from there to get a specialty beer that tastes like tequila (???) for my son-in-law! I've been holding on to an article about this beer for months; didn't lose it! What did he do to deserve me? All very efficient and this Type-A Crocheter is proud of all she is getting done. Tick, tick ticking...and if I have time to spare, my crochet will be in the car with me!

Yarn Bombing

2010-11-08T12:00:00.000-06:00

Monday November 8, 2010 Those of you who know me know that I am a sort of Peacenik from way back! Yarn bombing really speaks to my sensibilities! I had a blast last Friday bombing a perfectly darling bench in front of my favorite local yarn store (LYS), Fuzzy Wuzzy Yarn Store in Arlington heights, IL www.fuzzywuzzyyarns.com
The occasion was the first anniversary of Fuzzy Wuzzy, my new fiber home. Thursday afternoon and evening I stitched like mad and made a colorful strip that included both crochet and knit patches. I had eyeballed the bench for size on Wed. when I was there and took of from there.

Easy Friday morning after exercise and looking like crap, I slinked on over to the so as to attach the strip before Chris the owner arrived to open the store. I kept my eye out for cops and I was lucky because only one lady walked by and a bus was idling behind me, but I don’t think the driver was aware! I stitched it on in 20 minutes. Nearly froze but the smile on my face kept me warm. Chris, the owner, didn’t notice when she arrived. She is always carrying bags upon bags and struggles to get in the door! Finally about 1:30 PM she called to ask if I was the bomber because “it is crocheted.” I was very happy to inform her that I included two patches of knitting too!! She loved it and said a man from the village was in this morning (parking problems) and he said we should do it all around the village!

At the anniversary party that night many had already heard about the bombing out front or saw it when they came in. It was appreciated and they got quite a kick out of it. Try it-it is fun!!

I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of my latest book acquisition, Yarn Bombing: The Art of Crochet and Knit Graffitti by Mandy Moore.
It is not a new book, but I am very selective these days since my crochet book collection is already over 300. This proves to be a special one, though, and inspirational for some more bombing too! Let me know what you've yarn-bombed lately! I'd love to see pics too!

Here's some other bombing I've done:

Cowls: the New Scarves

2010-11-02T17:36:00.000-05:00

I'm excited about cowls. Why you ask? I am going to Mexico, a warm spot, for the winter. What would I need with a cowl? I don't NEED one; it is just that I love crochet and cowls are the newest;and there is so much potential for designing them. My fr;iend Vashti,www.designingvashti.com, has started a blog just for cowls. Check it out at http://crochetcowls.blogspot.com

Over the weekend, I crocheted a cowl designed by Sheryl Means and it is in the current issue of Interweave Crochet Accessories. It is called "Marcelle's Fancy Neck Wrap"
and is easy-breezy to make. I used Cascade Baby Alpaca Chunky. Here is a scan of it; I hope you can get an idea. I am without a camera for a few days. I really love the feel of the alpaca on my neck and it will go on display tomorrow at my LYS as a shop model and a potential crochet-along. Sheryl kindly gave me permission to teach her design pattern.

I love Sheryl! She is the co-owner of Yarntopia in Katy, TX. She and her partner, Amy Tyer, were bi-stitchural long before it was politically correct. They have lead the way for crocheters and knitters to become Sister-Stitchers! I met Sheryl when she took my class, "Courting the Crochet Customer" at The National Needlework Association trade show in 2005 just after they had opened the shop.

Ideas for other cowls are swirling in my head. I hope to get some new designs out there soon. Stay tuned.....

The Gemini Factor

2010-10-25T16:03:00.000-05:00

Our luck is holding out because the temperature is remaining balmy although the leaves are turning colors and drying and the winds are beginning to blow. As a "feel" of fall begins to fill our senses, my thoughts are turning to my first-ever winter in Ajijic, Jalisco, Mexico. You will be hearing more about my life and house in Ajijic when we get there and you can read earlier posts from my vacation there in 2009:
http://crochetqueen-royalramblings.blogspot.com/ajijic-jalisco-mexico-augsept-2009.html

As I begin to make lists about what to take to Mexico I began to also think about what a different life it is there. I feel like my soul has one foot in Mexico and one in Chicago. I am, afterall, a Gemini, and I do have two personalities. I have clothes for Mexico and clothes for Chicago. The same goes for jewelry. There is some overlap but somehow certain pieces of apparel just work better there than here in the Midwest!

Now, don't get me wrong...I have friends here in Chicago who are Gringas that speak Spanish. We call ourselfves, "Las Chicas" and we get together about every month to taste the tastes in the abundant number of Mexican restaurants in our area.

Las Chicas at Mariscos del Mar

We also have a couples dinner group, "Amigos de Mexico," that explores Latino restaurants of all kinds.
Amigos de Mexico at our house
Hopefully, they will visit us in Ajijic, and try out their Spanish, for real!

This time of year I create a shrine in the living room for Day of the Dead, a tradtional Mexican Holiday to remember our relatives and pets who have passed on.
Someday, my goal is to have all the treasured latino artifacts in the Mexico house and all the rest here in Chicago. Dual inspiration in dual houses!

I have plans to do latino-inspired crochet designs while in my little casa in our village of 10,000. I could do that here,and have been thinking about it for month or years. I have done some of that kind of designing before but I want to do more. When I was on the blog radio show, Getting Loopy, a few weeks ago, I was gratified that one of the callers commented about my ethnic inspired works. So it shows, huh? My goal is to have that be a stronger identity for my latino-self.

"Fiesta Ole" Bracelets from Kooky Crochet published by Lark

"Famous Faces Series: Frida I" Bead-Crochet Brooch

"Mexico Motif" Flat-work Bead Crochet Brooch published in Beadwork magazine

I think the warm atmophere and slow pace of living in Ajijic will be more conducive to me getting busy and really setting my focus toward this type of designing. The sights, the sounds, the smells-they are different! I have crochet and artist friends there and I will experience exthic craftworkers. Oooh, the creative juices are starting to flow already, but wait! I have two months to wait yet and I have ideas leaking out of the Chicago-side of my brain that must come to fruition now. The fingers can't loop quick enough, but every stitch is shear joy!!

Internet: We've Come a Long Way, Baby

2010-10-18T16:42:00.000-05:00

Monday, October 18, 2010
I am on my computer every day and I check into Facebook and Ravelry daily too. I am proud of my internet skills and I am appreciative of my sharp braincells as a result of the HUGE learning curve I have embarked upon to get to where I am today. I am slightly annoyed at those who like to say that those who spend time on Facebook has "no life." I just write off comments like that as jealousy or lack of confidence to navigate their way. I have a life and that's what I write about.

In 1992 when I was taking the first baby steps in forming the Crochet Guild of America (CGOA), I was using an Apple computer merely like a keyboard. The internet was just starting to bubble and my dear friend and neighbor, Gerry, and I were both starting to learn. Since she and I were the only "contacts" we had, we decided that each time we would send an email, we would have to let the other person know. It wasn't like today when we just pop on the computer for a daily check. There wasn't enough activity then to do that. So, collectively, we decided that we should signal the other when an email was waiting by tying a red rag in a tree in the yard in plain sight from the recipient's house! Gerry and I have senses of humors and we're slightly crazy, but mostly we were just excited about email and proud to be using it. Our kids thought we were nuts and the neighbors had no clue what those flags meant, but it makes for great laughts yet today when our kids now in their late 20s and 30s like to go down memory lane.

We moved into the Court from FL in August 1985 and Gerry and I both had kids in the same 2nd grade classroom with Mrs Buob starting later that month. No one that I remember welcomed us to the Court and it was a long, cold winter. In the Spring, Gerry and I found ourselves in the same circle in Mrs. Buob's classroom for parents' visitation. We realized we were neighbors and spoke for the first time. I still harass her for not welcoming me to the neighborhood and at the very least, bringing me a basket of warm muffins!

A lot of water has passed under the bridge since then and Gerry and I have become dear friends. She is not a crocheter and I thnk I have made it clear here that crochet is my life. Gerry did do needlepoint at one point in her life and I taught her sister-in-law to crochet. Does that qualify for things in common?

Gerry leapt ahead with her computer skills and in the early days of the Chain Link newsletter, she was volunteering to do the layout for me. As membership grew, crocheters took over the newsletter job, but Gerry's contribution was a lifesaver for me! I leapt ahead of her on Facebook; and last I checked, she still didn't have her photo there. She's said numerous times she wants me to come over and help her learn to upload pictures!

We've been through a lot together: ups and downs, successes and disappointments, tears of joy and sadness, marriages, divorces, grandchildren and deaths. Gerry's passion is golf; my passion is crochet. They say a person is lucky to have 2 or 3 real friends in a lifetime. It is not often that one has a dear friend and one who lives close enough to be able to see their light in the window. No, we don't share a crochet connection, but our connection is strong nevertheless.

Crochetqueen is Learning to Knit!

2010-10-11T12:48:00.000-05:00

Of course in my crochet-friendly, fiber community at my LYS, I am exposed to many knitters who are doing marvelous projects that I greatly admire. For years I have been feeling like I "should" be able to knit. I even went so far as to buy the Debbie Bliss How to Knit book and I learned to knit-stitch from a student nurse when I was working at the hospital. I had a weekly crochet group there for our clients with dementia. Heck, I know how to do every other type of needlework and have tried them all, embroidery, cross stitch, needlepoint, quiltng, tatting, sewing.....Why not knitting? Somehow, though, the knitting book never came off the shelf and I never went any further than knit-stitch.
So, last week the day finally came when I woud receive some professional knittig lessons from Chris at Fuzz Wuzzy Yarns.

Chris owes me for crochting ashop model for her store-see "My Crochet Home" I am taking my pay in services and product rather than cold hard cash! She is providing me with hr standard beginner knit class: four 2-hour lessons, bamboo needles and a skein of yarn. She has also ordered the new Rowan Summer Crochet Book for me.

In the days preceding my first lesson, there was a lot of teasing and joking about the "Crochetqueen" learning to knit. Chris was acting like she was having a bit of trepidation about teachng the "Queen" to knit and the resulting pressure from having to do so. Secretly, I thnk she was pleased that I chose her as my teacher. There was little bit of "You'll never believe who's going to learn to knit" going around the shop.

Jenny he other knitting teacher in the store told Chris to teach me Continental style even though Christ knits American style and is a little awkward with Continental. Well, a couple of minutes into the lesson, Chris saw tht I already knew how to do knitting in Americn style so we made the exeutive decision to proceed in that method. It was smooth sailng from there. After learning to cast on and a little bit of practie knitting, we moved on to purling. Voila, I was knitting! Chris is a good teacher!

After an hour and a half, she was going to move on to whatever she teaches next to beginners, but I was exhausted and we decided I could take a break, practice this week and come back for more next Thursday. It was a lot of fun and I am proud!

Let's analyze....as I am wont to do! I have never bashed knitter and I have always insisted that we croheters in the CGOA as a group should never stoop to the ways of Eizabeth Zimmerman who influenced a generation and legions of knitters to look down upon crocheters. There is NO reason for such discrimination! She caused a lot of grief that lingers still today and I am outing her! I don't care how much knitters look up to their EZ!!!

I had begun to notice, though, when sittig at Fuzzy Wuzzy Fiber Nights that when they realized I was sitting there crocheting or Chris would tell them I am the "Crochetqueen", they would invariably ask "Do you knit also?" I would always answer, "I can knit a little, but dont know much." That's the truth. I would explain further that my "crochet to-do" list is just so long, that I don't get around to knitting." They'd except that, but I always had the feeling that somewhere in the reaches of their minds they were judging me and thinking that I am just not quite complete because I don't have two sticks in my tool belt.

I could be completely wrong. I could be paramoid from my MANY negative experiences in the
70s and 80s at crochet-UNfriendly LYSs! The times they are a-changin' and many shops like Chris' are doing much to promote their services to all of the fiber arts not just knitting. In my humble opinion, that is just smart business!!

I never want to put down anyone or any kind of needlework to elevate my own ego and I don't think there is any reason for it. All fiber lovers should be able to stitch happily together with the common goal of just enjoying the process and the outcome, whatever shape or form it takes. I'm happy I am learning to knit. I love knitted cables and I look forward to reaching the point of being able to be skillful enough to make them. What I really want to do it to make a project that envelopes the best of both knit and crochet together, so that the "sister stitches" can reside happily in one project!

Meanwhile, the Queen is on her way to becoming truly bi-stitural. Thanks, Chris! I feel no pressure to prove anything to knitters with my new skills; nor do I think that I will ever be able to dedicate as much energy to knitting as I do crochet because afterall, my "crochet to-do list" keeps growing and I will be lucky to finish it before I die!!

CGOA Hall of Fame

2010-10-05T14:12:00.000-05:00

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Tues. October 5, 2010
I was honored to be invited by Cari Clement of Caron Yarns back in August to participate in a new Crochet Guild of America committee: The Hall of Fame. Since then our committee has met a couple of times and we have established the guidelines for this great idea that Cari has initiated.

It's got me thinking about all those wonderful crocheters from the 70s that I so admire. I still have their books and find inspiration from them each time I take a peek. Who do you admire in the crochet world? Who has inspired you? Who has made a lasting impression on you?

Here are the basics: "The CGOA Hall of Fame will reconize those who, over the years, have made a significant and lasting contribution to the art and craft of crochet. We invite all CGOA members to send us suggestions of people to nominate. Don't neglect to consider..... Who inspired your teachers? Who runs your favorite art-to-wear shop? Who wrote your favorite books? The possibilities are endless.....

Who has paved the way for crochet to become what it is today? There are the crochet artists, those who take crochet in a totally revolutionary direction. There are the promoters and educators who have been instrumental in expanding the reach and knowledge of crochet to all of us. There are all the other promoters including gallery owners, authors, editors and many more. Think BIG, think CREATIVE, think ICONS!

This project will not only be a lot of fun, but it will make us all really think, really research and really get inspired!

Please send your suggestion, along with a few sentences that describe why YOU think he or she deserves to be nominated by the committee, to: CGOAHallofFame@gmail.com
If possible, please include contact information for that person."

Fall is in the Air

2010-09-30T10:44:00.000-05:00

Thursday, September 30 ...and I am stoked!! Is it the crisp air and golden sunshine? Is it the premiere of all my favorite "must-see TV" shows: House, Glee, The Office, Thirty Rock and Grey's Anatomy? Is it the excitement in my LYS for crochet and my classes filling up? Is it the anticipation of dear s-i-l, Alice's visit next week and our late-night fiber talks? (She is a marvelous quilter and has a Masters in Quilt History)? Is it my long-anticipated appearance on Getting Loopy this week? Or is it just plain too much caffeine??

We our without internet until Oct. 6 thanks to an ATT-Snafu of the first kind! (Lonnnng story) so I started out making daily trips to Starbucks to check email. It's a comfortable community there. Are the emplyees paid more than minimum wage, because they seem really happy and polite? Or is it the caffeine they sniff all day? The wi-fi is FREE too, but I was spending a fortune on pumpkin-spice latess!

Lucky for us, dear neighbor and friend, Gerry, went on a vacation to Turkey yesterday and she graciously said we could use her wi-fi at her house for our daily checks! Thanks, Ger!

Anyway, my mind is popping with creative ideas and my Mac Rock Project is coming along nicely (due Oct. 1) I get real happy when an art project that I see in my head turns out like I envisioned. One never knows where the yarn/thread and/or the hook will lead us, but that is part of the exciting pathway that is creativity! I will explain and post pictures when it is done. I'll just tell you that it results from a combo-inspiration of our Mackinac Island trip this past Summer and the Blair Witch Project!

Chloe at the Pumpkin Patch:

There is some nostalgia in the Fall too as I bring out my Fall decor which I have downsized to minimal at best-only the best quality pumpkin theme for me. I also include my Day of the Dead shrine to our relatives who have died to remember them with fondness: Drexel and Dorothy (my parents-in-law) and my mother, also "Dorothy." I just happened to think this morning that I should also move the pics of our beloved pets, Sandy and Gizmo, to the shrine also. Will do! The Mexicans have such a positive attitude about life and life-thereafter. I have to say, I feel warmth and a smile comes to my face when I pass by the shrine in my living room and remember the wonderful times with these dearly departed family members, surrounded by the colors and textures of Mexico!

My Crochet Home

2010-09-20T14:50:00.000-05:00

Monday, October 11, 2010
So much is going on in my "Fiber Community" that I decided to add on here. Tonight I will begin the 2nd session of tunisian crochet: Tutti Frutti Tunisian Baby cap. The numbers have leveled off; I only have two students. But that's okay; they are enthusiatic and have waited for this class to be offered on Monday.

I have also started a Tunisian Crochet-Along with Doris Chan's design: Tokyo Vest. Students can pay-as-you-go and we're meeting the first Sat. of Oct,Nov. and Dec. for them to check in with me and work out the kinks when they get stumped on the pattern.

Monday, September 20, 2010
I was not the first to discover Fuzzy Wuzzy Yarn Store in Arlington Heights, IL, but as soon as I heard about it in January, I got over there and introduced myself to Chris, the owner. I made it very clear to her from the beginning that I am a passionate crocheter and I would be interested in teaching crochet in her shop.

Obviously, by the name of her store, I could tell that she is running a crochet-friendly place! From the begnning, Chris was open to most anything I wanted to teach. Since someone was already teaching beginners and since I have pretty much taught my share of beginners, I offered an intermediate class which was a colorful sampler pillow done in Cascade 220 wonderful wool. I had just one student but that was okay because she was a wonderful student and great person. Pam, it turns out, started he charity Halos of Hope, www.halosofhope.org which provides chemo caps for cancer victims. Long story short, I made some connections for her and she now is featured in a book piublished by DRG with Chemocap patterns in it (Chemo Caps & Wraps) A percentage of the profits goes to Halos of Hope! Just last week, Pam launched the book at Fuzzy Wuzzy and signed the books. It was a fun evening and great turn out from the crocheters.

I taught a successful bead-crochet class at Fuzzy Wuzzy and have repeated it and will be teaching it again this week! I love bead-crochet and I love seeing the students' faces light up when they get it and really take off and make lots of bracelets!

At the beginning of August I offered to run Crochet Connection every Tuesdy morning. The idea is to get crocheters into the store to crochet, chat and connect! Hopefully, with a little crochet talk, exposure to great yarn and patterns and some limited help from me, they will get enthused to take crochet classes Little by little we will build up the interest in crochet classes, hopefully, to both crocheters AND knitters! I have a "faithful three" attending each week and a few othrs whodrop in now and then. It is fun; I get some crocheting done and learn a few things myself!

Last week I taught the second of two sessions on Tunisian Crochet. The project was Tutti Frutti Tunisian Baby Cap and the design was used with permission from Angela Melara. Years ago, I took her class and learned the technique at the Chain Link Crochet Conference. More recently, I made the cap for granddaughter, Baby Chloe, and it does make an excellent baby gift. This turned out to be a very successful class wih eight, yes eight, students! Chris has been very happy about this and it is always a quandrey as to what will attract crocheters to the LYS! Apparently, the technique of Tunisian is different to most people and the look of entrelac knitting attracted many to want to learn.

I volunteerd to make several crochet swatches for Chris to hang with the various yarns and just finished another one in Kraemer Yarn done in tunisian crochet. It should catch the es of a few knitters. Chris had asked me to make a shop model for the store with Frog Tree 100% alpaca It' a kit and the jacket is called Origami I worked on it for two months and finally gave it to Chris last week. I talked about it last week and posted a pic, but here it is again. Chris is blocking it and then it will go on display.

You are beginning to get the picture about how I say Fuzzy Wuzzy is my home , right? It is comfortable and Chris is building a community of stitchers who are frequenting the store and engaging harmoniously in "fiber frenzy" there and hopefully making her business a success. I would say she is doing most everything right to succeed. I will miss that community when I am gone this winter to Mexico for three months, but I plan on bringing back new ideas and fresh prospective in the Spring!

Crochet Anonymous

2010-09-14T16:42:00.000-05:00

Hey, Tuesday is the new Monday! I am on a crochet-high today; well, actually I have been for a couple of days. Is it the cool air that each year inspires us to think ahead to the holidays that always sneak up on us? Is it fall scents that inspire us to get busy making crocheted gift for those holidays. Is it just plain too much.
coffee?

I had a great day at Crochet Connection today at the LYS (Fuzzy Wuzzy Yarns in Arl. Hts., IL) I turned in the Frog Hill Origami Jacket to Chris which I have been crocheting for her since the end of July. It is always such a good feeling to get something done, especially a very big project like this. Luckily, this summer we have had a lot of road trips, so this project helped those hours sail by while Alan happily drove.

Actually, Crochet Connection was Bi-Craftual today because two of the four of us were knitting and that is okay!Roz was so excited about starting her knit jacket that she could hardly stand it until the shop opened on Tuesday! I was able to help the other croheter get her granny square going and she was very grateful. It is amazing how just a little hands-on can guide the way and really make the day of the person who can now can proceed on her own. That feels good!

Cooking up a Halloween Headband for Chloe, excited about buying yarn to make her a dress and discovering fabulous yet simple neckwarmer-they've all got me excited and flying high.

I have been slowly gaining confidence about my video, Crochet Anonymous posed 4 weeks ago on YouTube. Actress daughter, Bethany, wholeheartedly approved of it AND of my acting skills. Older daughter, Nicole, liked it too. Chris told me thismorning that she and Jenny go quite a laugh out of it and there have been 847 hits on Youtube so far with many comments that all the other "hookers out there agree with me! Woolie Bullies, which inspired m to writemy own video has 37,000 or so hits in three years; I could hit that mark if the pace stays like it is. So, when Roz was talking about how her crochet and knitting is like other addictions except healhier, I eeked up my couraee and asked Chris to bring it up on her computer. My students all gathered around the counter and watched it. The woman who was quietly shopping in the background must ave wondered what we were up to, but my students really enjoyed it.

So, now with this new sense of confidence, I won't be so subtle anymore. I will post it right here (that is if I can figure out how) and it will be front and center for you to view. Fun; just having fun!

"Out of the Frying Pan, Into the Fire"

2010-09-03T15:54:00.000-05:00

Friday, September 3, 2010
So much for my plan to blog every Monday! Oh well, here goes... It is a glorious day-33 years ago I gave birth to our first-born daughter. She has continued to bring joy to our lives to this day and has presented us with an incredible granddaughter named Chloe. She's a friend, she makes me laugh and she is a willing listener. Thank you, Nicole, for being you!

We were able to celebrate with Nicole this week when she came into town with Chloe to take her mother-in-law far a birthday celebration at Ravinia outdoor theatre to see Carrie Underwood. We got to take care of Chloe!

The time together was great and we treated Nicole and Bethany, younger daughter, to a Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise.

The day was perfect and we had a great time with dinner afterwards in Bethany's neigborhood at our favorite Turkish restaurant, "Istanbul."

My CGOA chapter, nicrochet, has an Annual Chapter Challenge in which we are given theme or a word and we are supposed to come up with something to interpret the theme in crochet.This year it was the simple word "Kitchen." My idea popped into my head in the shower (where most of my ideas come from): "Out of the Frying Pan, Into the Fire." I bought a frying pan at a re-sale shop and covered it with copper color art wire. then I created leaves in reds and oranges and also made an egg with google eyes that is escaping from the pan into the fire! It has somehig to do with how my year has played out and it ws fun and therapeutic to make.
The prizes are awarded by People's Choice" and I was pleased to be awarded Honorable Mention: Creative

The CROCHET Compartment of my Brain

2010-08-16T14:03:00.000-05:00

My new habit is to post on this blog every Monday and today's thoughts, although very personal, have been calling to me since last Monday. I am a private person in many ways, but in other ways not. I am about to share some thoughts that I haven't shared with very many outside of family. I usually don't believe that my problems are other people's problems, but it is time to get this out for the therapeutic value.

My husband, Alan, is loosing his ability to speak. It has been coming on for about 5 years and is getting progressively worse. It has to do with deterioration of his cerebellum which controls coordination. His tongue, a very complex muscle, is not able to coordinate words very well. I can still understand him, as can most people; but sometimes it is tough to understand some words. It is a very long story, but after three trips to Mayo clinic and numerous dollars later, we have no diagnosis or cure. They basically told us, "We don't know what it is or what to do. Have a nice life and let us know if anything changes!"

On our drive home from Mayo, we agreed to make the most of life (everyone should, really) and we will just have to cope with what comes when it comes.

What, you ask, does this have to do with crochet? When I am crocheting or designing or promoting crochet, I am in a very happy spot. I relax and I go to a tranquil place when I crochet. My mind drifts and it is usually not to a sad place. I love to come up with fun, silly and clever ways to bring attention to crochet and I have a blast with my minions on my designer group on Ravelry: www.Ravelry.com/groups/Cro-Kween Designs

Today I posted a crochet video on YouTube. It has been two months in the making and after I saw "Wooly Bullies" which completely bashes crochet, on YouTube,I decided to fight back. It is high time we crocheters get a sense of humor and have some fun with our beloved craft. We also need to promote it to the unknowing and IGNORANT!!! I wrote the script in one day and had some of my cro-buddies critique it.

I didn't tell Alan much about it at all because I felt so conflicted by exercising my sense of humor at a time when my husband is dealing with a very serious condition. "What is wrong with me? I asked my friend over lunch. Her response helped a lot. "There is nothing wrong with laughing. Will the alternative do you or your husband any good?"

Off I went to the Crochet Conference sponsored by CGOA, script in hand and my vcr with plans to recruit actor/crocheters and stage the video shoot while there. It is the biggest captive group of crocheters I coudl think of. My roommate at the conference, Melanie, is a working actress and she agreed to direct the film. The official CGOA photographer, Alex, offered to lend his digital recorder and videographer wife, Irene, to help with the production. I am abslutely and 100% sure that this video would not have happend if it had not been for Melanie and Irene!! I would have caved in to the pressure and given up at the slightest difficulty. As it was, making the video was challenging. We had to find spots in the conference center that weren't noisy, we had to recruit perfect strangers who would risk making fools of themeselves and they had to become "instant actors" and learn their lines in a hurry. Melanie offered terrific guidance and "acting 101" on the spot and Irene was patient as "Saint Cro-alicious" with the many re-takes.

I stepped WAAAAY out of my box and may have ruined my reputation as the upstanding "Mother of CGOA" with this video, but hey, at my age, if I don't start letting my sense of humor out it may never happen. I have to credit Ravelry with the development and/or encouragement of humor. I've been a member at least 3 years and have been putting myself out there with silly avatars that change periodically and expecting nothing but fun at my Cro-Kween Designs group. There is an aura of fun at Ravelry and I have come to realize that crocheters sometimes lack sense of humor. It is high time we got some!

Enjoy the video, "Crochet Anonymous," at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=egkseJR-DGQ

and tell me what you think. Feel free to pass it on to anyone who might be interested.

Alan has been incredibly brave and continues to have a positive attitude. He still works and is a highly productive member of his team at work. Although I will give in to a momentary paroxysm of crying, I must keep a positive attitude for him also. The "crochet compartment" of my brain is where my strength is and it is where I go when I have problems.

Do you wonder why I am a crusader for crochet? It is so much more that the pretty or ugly finished products. It is a process that offers so much to so many. I want everyone to be aware of crochet even if they don't do it. I believe everyone needs to understand the positive and varied aspects of crochet. So, I will soldier on, keep my crochet AND my sense of humor; and through it all, remain strong for my husband of almost 43 years!

Dads

2010-08-09T11:13:00.000-05:00

August 9,2010: Now that my mother is gone and I am left with just my dad, I am beginning to realize that dads are a different breed! I think that my dad is also finding out all that a mom/wife is and how much that we do is taken for granted by all of us. Moms keep track of all the social aspects of life and they know just when to send a birthday card and time it so it arrives just at the proper time! Moms know what is going on in the extended family because they don't mind talking on the phone and keeping in touch. They go shopping and run into people too and keep up with the neighbors and the friends from church. Moms plan meals and shop once a week to get everything that is needed. Moms know what to do with leftovers!
I think Mom would be holding Chloe if she were here, just because.....

It has been seven months since Mom left us and Dad is learning. He's doing a fine job of trying to make a life for himself alone. The winter was very rough and lonely and cold for him. Spring brought a new outlook with him being able to get out and walk the dog, Jack, and enjoy being out in the car more. He works in the yard and runs errands for my brother. He has kept up with his three social groups, one that meets at Atz's Ice Cream shop on Wed. afternoon and the Friday morning coffee group and his weekly dinner at the American Legion with another widower.

There are tales to tell about the coffee group...one old guy had the propensity of lingering bhind as they were leaving and lifting the tip from the table. Not only the group's table but he would also sashay around and collect from other tables. Finally, he was asked by management to not darken the door any more! They also thrown in a quarter to a "pot" and someone wins it each week. Another guy is currently trying to rig the pot somehow so he can win it because it is a REALLY LARGE SUM of about two dollars!

Jack, the dog, was a blessing for my mother and has proved to be a constant companion to my dad as well. Jack wakes my dad up most nights at 3 AM and jumps on his bed. It's annoying, yes, but dad says Jack is "well worth the trouble."

I feel very fortunate to have my brother and sister-in-law's watchful eye on dad as they live as neighbors in the next lot. They include him in many activities and have him for dinner and go out to dinner with him weekly. They look for jobs to give him to help him keep busy. At 90 years old, sometimes the energy level is just not there and dad has periods where he isolates himself a bit, but he bounces back and is most happy when he does have something to do, even if it is make-work or fake errands!

Dad is learning to talk to me whereas before, he was always more than happy to let mom do all the talking. Yes, he is a bit shy, but I think it was just a guy thing. He kept one ear on the phone and the other on the tv while we talked on the phone and would often say, "Oh, mom knows about this or that." I haven't really changed the way I talk; it is the same news and the same updates. It is different though, talking to dad. Just something we both have to get used to!

Covering My World In Crochet

2010-08-04T12:28:00.000-05:00

Crochet is my life; crochet is my world. I want to see crochet everywhere, so I started covering thngs in crochet! Rocks are my current favorite to cover. Artists who use crochet as their medium are my passion and years and years ago, I was inspired by fiber artist, Claire Zeisler in a photo of her covered rocks in Fiberarts Magazine.

My latest creations are here at the top. To see my first covered rock, inspired by Claire Zeisler, see below. It is a little worse for the wear and probably 15 years old! To see other things I've covered as "yarn-bombing," go to the post: "Hooka, Please"

The Rocky Shores of Maine, Northern IL Chapter Challenge, "Summer", 2009

Rock for Alan, 2008

Hard As A Rock for the Nipple Project, 2008

Rock Garden, front (R) and back (L),2008

Heartrock Hotel(2006): Northern IL Chapter Challenge, "Heart," 2008, 3rd place; 1st Place Art Category, CGOA, 2009

Rocky Trio, 2008

Mossy Zen Rock Garden in Kooky Crochet by Lark Books, 2007

Rock painted by Bethany in 2nd grade, 1988, and embellished with crochet in 2007

Rock for Nicole, 2007

Love Rocks, 2004

Covered rock paperweight, white thread; inspired by Claire Zeisler

My Needlework Legacy

2010-04-11T16:05:00.000-05:00

I think that it is time to get the history down here to preserve it for future generations, just like I want to preserve my beloved crochet for future generations too!

I know for sure I am a third generation needleworker. My grandmother, Myrtle Olive (Shipe) Eshelman (1890-1973),bless her wonderful soul, did tatting and was a superb seamstress. My mother, Dorothy Eleanor (Eshelman) Blakley (1926-2009) took after her and was a fabulous seamstress also.

From the time I was a young child of two I would visit my granmother by myself. She took such good care of me and as I got older was so much fun to be around. To this day I can remember what a wonderful cook she was: chicken and noodles, scalloped potatoes and ham, green beans fresh out of the garden and delicious pies of all kinds. Her apple, cherry and peach pies were to die for! I like to cook and actually made pie crusts from scratch for many years until I discovered "Pillsbury" all-ready pie crusts. Since that day, I haven't looked back; they are really quite good. I'll make a graham cracker crust from scratch now and then. I can remember waking up and looking forward to a piece of grandma's pie for breakfast!

My visits were to the family homestead, a farm where my mother and her 6 siblings grew up.
Mother: bottom right with 5 of her 6 siblings

My grandma had been a widow from the time I was two, so I don't remember Grandpa Harold. The farm held so many fascinations for me: flower gardens, barns, wide stone posts at the front gate, the huge furnace in the basemntthat had to have caolshoveled into and the bedside potty which we used at night instead of going to the outhouse in the dark! There were many Amish people living in the area and they were frequently passing by in their buggies. We spent many a hour on the front porch swing where grandmas told me endless stories of "gyspies" who would arrive in the neighborhood on their annual treks across country, sometimes knocking on he door to ask for handouts. Some were scary stories and of course, I would always want her to re-tell them. This was a time before television and we would spend endless hours just whiling away the time on lazy summer days. Down the road at the bend was a general store and walking there to buy a loaf of bread for Grandma and some penny candy was a great activity to pass some time.

I can remember family reunions with the farmhouse packed full of at least fifty people. I always had many, many cousins who I enjoyed, many close to my age.

Me and my cousins at the farm

My Aunts and Uncles were so friendly and close to us even though we were the only ones who lived in the "city." I can remember one particular get-together when we cousins were running around like crazy and I had a "head-on" crash with cousin Larry. Oh, did I bleed and cry! I still have the scar in my eyebrow to remind me! My mom, the youngest sibling may have been a bit rebellious (maybe that's where I get it; she married my dad at age 21 and moved away from this small farming community.

Mom never lost her "closeness" to her mother or siblings, though. I remember going for every holiday to visit grandma in one way or another. In the later years of her life, I remember mom always buying her a new dress for every occasion, it seemed like.

Grandma in a new dress

Her birthday was on Valentine's Day

A birthday party for Grandma that my mom hosted

By the time I was ten or so, Grandma had sold the farmhouse to her son, Uncle Norris and moved abou five miles to the town of Wolcottville, IN. I was taking the Greyhound bus by myself to visit her by then. My mom or dad would take me downtown (Ft. Wayne, IN) and put me on the bus; Grandma lived all of an hour away! She never drove but she would meet me "uptown" and we would walk the three blocks to her tiny house where I would stay for a week.

Grandma lived across the alley from her daughter, Aunt Nancy,and I was a great playmate with my cousin Linda.
Gwen and Linda

We had the best times and I had big crushes on her two brothers, Jim and Bob. Too bad, I always thought, that they are my cousins! Even though they were several years older, they tolerated Linda and I pretty well and were even nice to us.

Jim and Bob with Uncle Jim
Aunt Nancy made some pretty delicious pies too! She is 92 now and living in an assisted living home and thriving there. To this day, I am close to cousin Jim and we have annual family reunions in September where I see all my cousins. My brother, Roger, s hosting them now and the Eshelman Family RReunions have been going on for fifty years!

I've blogged here about my "Ginny" Doll by Vogue Dolls ("Ginny, Barbie, American Girl: Influences Through the Generations") and receiving her one year when I was about eight has to be one of the best Christmases ever! I remember clearly that on Christmas morning I received my Ginny from "Santa" at my house. Later that day, our family went to Grandma's house and there the greatest surprise awaited me...Grandma had made me oodles and oodles of outfits for my doll out of fabric that my mother had used to make clothes for me!

Gwen wearing a dress from the same brown fabric that Ginny's dress is made from.

I loved each and every outfit made in the cleverest ways with scraps of matching fabrics and the finest details: embroidered french knots, pom poms little flowers and bows! I'll always remember the fabric "pink pongee" that my mom referred to about one of my dresses. Ginny has an outfit made out of it too!

Ginny's dress made from the "pink pongee"

I treasure that doll with all my heart and still have her and the trunk full of her clothes on display in daughter Bethany's room.

As I got to high school, I still went to visit Grandma, but my interests were changing! Linda and I were still best buddies and we liked to go to the dance parties held at a nearby lake. Grandmas wasn't so in favor of that, especially of us being out late at night. We had some conflicts, but all turned out well. I dearly loved my Grandma and still have such warm memories of all she meant to me.

My husband, Alan and I were just home from living in Honduras in the Peace Corps the summer Grandmas died. Mom had gone to take her to the doctor; I don't remember what was wrong. The story goes...the doctor told Grandma she would not be able to live alone anymore. I don't know what the look on her face said, but she remained silent. They went to the car and she was inside when her head tilted to its side and she was dead of a massive stroke. The thought of not living n her own in her precios little house right by Aunt Nancy killed her!

My mother, Dorothy (Dot as my dad called her) was quite the entrepreneurial lady. As I said she was a talented seamstress and for a long ago as I can remember, she had a sewing business in our home and made clothes and did alerations for many, many customers. In a sense she was a stay-at-home mom because she was always there and could be available for us (me and my two younger brothers) when we neded her. She sewed in the dining room and just closed the French doors when someone needed to change. I always enjoyed the arrival of the customers and liked to be nearby to hear the tales they would tell my mom. She sewed for many of her customers through many, many years and through all of life's occurences for them: deaths, divorces, bankrupcy, etc! I now how to sew with a machine and have had one for years. I mostly use it just for "necessity" when a crochet project needs something that the machine can provide.I can remember mom trying to each me to sew when I was about ten and it was not a good memory! She didn't have the patience of a teacher and when I didn't get it right after a few tries, she preferred to just do it herself!

That's okay; in high school I found enjoyment in the handwork of stamped embroidery and crewel. It was the sixties and I still remember the cute little kits with pictures of porches and flowers and hanging plants. Pleated skirts were the fashion and th girls who could afford to buy their clothes at retail department stores were wearing skirts of the most gorgous plaids. I remember the particular pattern in lovly shades of lavendar. I was so in love with it, but there was no way I could spend that kind of money. Lo and behold, my mom found the exact same fabric in the fabric store and made me a look-alike pleated skirt for me. I was so excited and probably had just a hint of doubt and trepidation tht someone would know it was "homemade" and not from Wolf nnd Dessauer Dept. Store!

Mother made my prom dresses and my wedding gown,

The bride: Gwen
plus a couple of the bridesmaids gowns. She made many a bridesmade dress for her granddaughters too!

My mom was quite feisty and outspoken and I believe, an early feminist in her own way. She knew the value of her skills and expected to be paid for her knowlege and talents. One time she shortened a pair of pants for a man. He knew she really love blue gills freshly caught from the northern Indiana lakes. When he came to pick up the pants,he offered her a 'mess" of bluegil in lieu of payment. Mom told him in no uncertain terms that she would enjoy the bill gills, but they would not suffice for payment of his obligation!

Her passionate hobby was always garage saling for antiques. In her forties, she began selling antiques in local festivals and exhibitions on a limited basis and when I was in college she opened an antique shop on the property of our home, "The Red Shed."

A newspaper article featuring mom and her spongeware collection.

When my mom and dad built a new, smaller house next door,she had a special room added to continue the shop. She retired as an antique dealer at age 65. At some point she stopped sewing new clothes from scratch but continued to do alterations for a few customers until she was eighty and having eyesight problems due to macular degeneration.

I had heard "porch swing tales" about Aunt Ruth (Grandma's sister-in-law) who always lived in Hollywood, FL, but never had had the pleasure of meeting her. Aunt Ruth visiting us in Coral Springs

When we moved relatively nearby to Coral Springs FL, I made contact with her and got to know her quite well in her later years. We had two dauhters by then and would drive to Hollywood to visit her on a Sunday afternoon. She would always want to cook for us and had the same culinary talents as Myrtle. A widow of many years, she lived in the tiniest house an served her delicous food on the tiniest plates on the tiniest table! I can still recall the waftng perfume from the HUGE gardenia bush outside her screened porch.

It seemed like she wanted to give me something every time we visited. It wasn't always something valuable; it could be as simple and lovely as a bouquet of fresh gardenias off her bush! One time, though, I hit the proverbial jackpot when she gave me a small crocheted purse

Aunt Ruth's Miser Purse-dates from 1900

which she told me that she carried to Sunday school as a young girl with her pennies in it. That cherishd purse dwelled unnoticed for years in an old trunk where I to this day keep my crochet lace collection. It's a treaured piece and launched my career as a first time author!

Magical Miser Purses: Crochet Patterns with Victorian Inspiration co-authored with BJ Licko-Keel. Published by DMC Corp 2000.
I wouldnt have become an author if it weren't for the Crochet Guild of America. The confidence I gained and the networking with both crocheters and industry people helped me find my way to getting the story of this treasued family heirloom published. My c-author, BJ Licko-Keel had similar interests to me in misers purses, so it was perfect fit and we had a wonderful time working together on the book for over two years. It was a huge learning experience too!

People often mistake me for an expert needleworker and crocheter. They think because I am the Founder of the Crochet Guild of America (CGOA)that I must also know everything there is about crochet! That couldn't be farther from the truth! I started the guild, not because I knew everything about crochet But because I wanted to badly to learn MORE! While we lived in FL (1977-85), I was a member of the Embroiderers' Guild of America (EGA)and I can remember taking my crochet to the meetins and keeping it hidden below the table! I participated, don't get me wrong; and I learned a lot! It is here that I began to wonder why we, the crocheters, didn't have an organization as exciting as EGA or for that matter, just an organization! I didn't know many other crocheters and sure didn't have a place to go to meet up with them or workshops and conferences to learn from them. So, I honed my skills in embroidery and learned so much from both local and national teachers.I was thrilled when in 2002 we were large enough an organization to be able to hire a management company and in 2007 we celebrated the Fifteenth Anniversary of CGOA with a special logo designed by a meember who won the logo contest!

Now, some 30-plus years later, I am still learning about crochet and the "process" is just as important to me as the finished "projects." I know I still have so much more to learn and I enjoy that. With the advent of online social media groups in the last few years, I have found that the amount of information and the things to learn is almost overwhelming, but I am trying to keep up with it. I am "Crochetkween" on Ravelry (www.ravelry.com) a wonderful crochet and knit community. I have a designers page there: Cro-Kween Designs, where crocheters come to share and learn from each other. It also helps if you have a sense of humor while visiting my group.

When my mother died in 2009, my sister-in-lae, Lynn (bless her heart) put together a memory album for my dad. Every family contributed a page and this is what I made:

Yes, We're Here and We CROCHET!!!

2010-03-26T15:45:00.000-05:00

Kudos to Classic Elite Yarn Company for including "crochet" in their Spring Knit-Along!! The back story is this....Fuzzy Wuzzy Yarns in Arlington Heights, IL is a relatively new and crochet friendly store. She was promoting the Knit-Along when one of her more astute crochet customers asked the question, Can crocheters participate." Why, of course, thought the owner, and she checked with Classic Elite to see if they would offer patterns for crocheters so they could participate. Well, they had to have a meeting about it first, but they got back to her with the question, is this national? Are all LYS's wanting to participate? Imagine....it is hard enough keeping a LYS afloat in these hard times without worrying about what other stores are doing! Hopefully, Classic Elite, has done their part to suggest to their network of national clients that it is a good idea to include crocheters in this fun activity. I mean, why shut out a portion of potential business, especially a group that uses 1/3 more yarn!!

Here are the patterns being used if you want to crochet-along:
http://www.kristentendyke.com/patterns/CrochetMotifCard.php
http://mldesigns.typepad.com/Cropped%2Crochet%20Cardigan
One is free and the other is $7.00

I presented myself at Fuzzy Wuzzy Yarns as soon as I heard they had opened and have already taught an intermediate crochet class with a bead-crochet class coming up in April. I promote crochet there in as many ways as I can, wearing it, teaching it, talking about it. The owner is very open to learning any ways she can include crochet. I suggested that rather than labeling her monthly get togethers, "Knit-Night," "Fuzzy Wuzzy Fiber Night" might be a bit more clever and also convey inclusiveness to the crocheters. She liked it and so be it....crocheters are showing up and doing their part to participate and buy yarn!

Sometimes I just get numb to all the non-inclusive thinking that is out there. Maybe I'm just used to being left outand forgotten as a segment of the fiber world. I do have hope, though, because a whole new crop of savvy, young professionals are getting into crochet and they have expectations!Tey see themselves as equal participants in the fiber world and non-defenseively ask questions and question if their needs are not met.

Crock Star 4: Re-Tool to Be Cool

2010-03-04T13:13:00.000-06:00

Crocheters the world over have struggled with the "coolness" factor and often have found themselves hovering in the cool shadows of the knitters, but no more! Even though I am ehem, older, I fancy myself as young at heart. I did, however, suffer through the anti-crochet-old granny-doily syndrome in the seventies and still remember some of the inadequate feelings I chose to hang onto about my passion and beloved crochet. I vowed when I started the Crochet Guild (CGOA) that we crocheters would never cast aspersions upon any needleartists. Stitching is a pathway everyone deserves to take and it doesn't matter how the loops are twisted as long as they are twistin'.

I believe each and every member of the CGOA is a Crochet Star! We just have to start believing it and promoting ourselves as such. A little more sense of humor, like our stitcherly sisters seem to have, would help. We have the passion and we've worked long and hard to achieve our skills, so why not be "on-stage" at all times: wear it, show it and publish it!

If you feel you are on the verge of doing something grand with your crochet, but a niggling little bit of stage fright has you stymied, well then read on. If you need to ratchet up your "cool factor" just a little, read on. I have the tips for how to re-tool to be cool!

In keeping with my "youngness" I have struggled to keep up my computer skills and believe me, it has not been easy. I have fully embraced Ravelry and think it is the cooest thing ever. Because of all that Ravelry offers, I have learned to work a digital camera, upload photos to my computer and to Rav, I have learned many new words and have fallen in love with the concept of avatars; I have created pages on Ravelry and opened stores on Etsy and Ravelry to sell my pattern designs. I have learned how to convert my patterns to pdfs so they can be purchased online and opened a PayPal account. I blog and I am proud!

My local chapter of CGOA has been attracting more and more 20 and 30 somethings to the meetings lately and I am loving it. They bring a whole new way of thinking about crohet which is exhilerating and interestng to watch. They are proud to be crocheters and know nothing of the pain we have suffered along the way as we have stuck our necks out, carried the cro-banner for them and cleared the way for their success! They are engineers and teachers and who knows what other kind of professionals with disposable income. They are on a huge learning curve and don't hesitate to by books and fine yarns. They don't know the years we went through when only one crochet book per year would be published. They don't realize how we sruggled trough the nineties to hone our skills and find our way to become the designers/authors of the books they love so much today. These young and enthusiastic crocheters are our future and they know what they want and how to go about finding it. They don't hesitate to volunteer with confidence and I am proud to have them as members fo CGOA!

Now, back to the "cool factor." We use abbreviations for everything these days. JK and we're just kidding. Burger King is now BK and my s-i-l (son-in-law) calls me GBK I want my first granddaughter to call me GiGi (GrandmaGwen). Those afghans that we tried to disparage in the 90s in order to broaden the public's viewpoint of ALL that crochet can be are hip again. We call them 'ghans! Take my advice, start to abbreviate and nurture your sense of humor. If you're stressed out on scs or too pooped to popcorn, become acrylically alive and crow about crochet. Top 'o the hook to you this month. Gotta get the hook outta here!

An update on April 14, 2010: the brevity of speech continues in he media. I heard an ad on the radio for Motel 6: "Tom Bodette" is the long-time spokesperson. H introduced himself as "To Bo for th Mo" This is hilarious. He mentioned the word , "ei-fi" and explained itlike this, "It sounds like you are in a hurry to go do something cool." As I was saying.....cool. If you think about it VW and BMW were waaaaay ahead of their time!