My Crocheted Necklace

I crocheted this necklace a few weeks ago, but just got around to taking some pics. Halfway through knitting my sweater vest, I needed a little break, and this necklace totally fit the bill.



The magazine version includes beads, and was done in white for a bridal feel, but I like it even more in bright color without the beads. I think the pattern holds strong on it's own.



This was my first time working with crochet thread and a teeny tiny hook, but I didn't find it too difficult. I moved a little slower than usual, and had to really concentrate on the pattern/chart. Totally worth the heavy concentration - I absolutely love it.


(my parents made me this fantastic holder - thrift store frame + radiator grate from the hardware store, spray painted silver + s-hooks - works perfectly!)

The "Sexy Vesty"

I finally finished this darn sweater vest I've been working on for what seems like the longest time. Although it felt like the knitting dragged on a bit for such a small amount of stitches, I think it turned out great.



It fits perfectly, I love the yarn I used (Lions Brand Cotton-Ease), the color is fun and summery, and its a very workable piece in my wardrobe.



The pattern is free and available on Ravelry - the Sexy Vesty (because nothing says sexy like a sweater vest).



I'm happy to move onto the next project!

What To Do With Tomatillos

If you happen to come across a big bag of tomatillos at your local farmer's market, I would highly recommend making this most delicious Tomato and Tomatillo Gazpacho.



We were almost immediately in need of a second batch after tasting the first one. Super tasty and refreshing.

Happy Birthday, Dad!

My dad is the best dad. No really, he is.



Love you, Dad! Happy birthday!

Thrift Store Treasure

A few weeks ago I received a lucky treasure in the mail from my mom. She found two of these at the thrift store:



Unopened argyle sock kit, copyright 1950 from Patons and Baldwin.



Check out the chart!



Don't worry, there were two, so she was able to keep one for herself. :)

Rain Drops and Polka Dots

Over the weekend I took advantage of being at my parents to use my mom's sewing machine for a tote bag I had been wanting to make to test out my sewing skills after my Sewing 101 class at the end of March.



It's definitely not perfect, but I love the prints and it will make a great project bag.



...and it's reversible!

Birthday Surprise

I hope you all had a nice Memorial day weekend! I sure did. On Saturday I flew home to Appleton, WI to surprise my mom for her birthday. My dad was in on the surprise, and told my mom he was off to the grocery store when really he was off to the airport to pick me up. When we got back to the house, he went in first and told my mom to come see what he got on special at the store. Surprise! We've never pulled something like that on her before, and it was a lot of fun.

I had a great weekend relaxing with my parents. Lots-of-pictures-alert:


* Who knew Paris was right in the backyard?*



* the little old lady who rules the roost *


* Little Lake Butte des Morts *



* old railroad bridge *


*Mom and Dad crossing the Friendship Trail, Menasha, WI *


* warehouse on the trail *


* plenty of irises ready for their close-up *


* "Treasure" found in the backyard (it's a deer skull) *


* chairs always getting a new paint makeover *


*homemade strawberry-rhubarb ice cream with the last of the garden rhubarb crop *


*snapdragons *


* half shade/half sun combo is the best for a snooze *


* Testing out Dad's Christmas present on the creek *



* Dad was in on the plan*



* the birthday girl *