EASY

First Mittens pattern and matching cable cowl.

2012-02-02T16:43:00.000-08:00

My husband and I went out in -30 degrees to take these pictures. My ears were getting cold haha.

This pattern comes in adult size. It comes with directions on how to make these into fingerless gloves as well.
I'm still working on getting pictures of the fingerless gloves.

If cables scare you and your not sure you can do them, I included several tutorial type pictures along with the pattern to help. I also included instructions on how to make the mittens without the cables just in case you decide you don't like cables or want a cleaner look.

Designed....pattern tested by 8 lovely testers...and now available for purchase.

Update

2012-01-18T22:56:00.000-08:00

Whoa, it's being a crazy new year! 2012 is already rockin it!
Besides being happily busy....we are looking to get a new house (so exciting!). Our family of six has grown out of our 1300 sq ft home. Expansion is in the future and I'm so happy about it. The future is bright.

With this expansion will come space for a mini craft and photography studio for me.

I've decided that I LOVE photography and have been looking into growing a portfolio and possibly a small photography business. Very excited about that. I've been practicing.

Yep, these are the wee beginnings of Tara Murray Photography. If you want to follow along with that then like my facebook page here. I hope you will!

Also, I've been crocheting away and have two new patterns that I haven't shared with you yet.

We have the Sammy Slouch Hat

she's putting a spell on you : )

and

The Mamachee Boots - these boots come in baby size 3-child size 4 and women sizes 2-12

and my favorite part...

This photo and those cables are from Ann of Glamour 4 you. She worked the Mamachee boots up with these cables and allowed me to share her directions on the pattern. So excited about it. Ann is so generous, sweet and a talented crafter and crocheter!

Find Ann on facebook and etsy

I hope you guys are having a wonderful start to this year!

Happy New year 2012!!

2011-12-31T21:22:00.000-08:00

from Sow Kindness, Gather Love

Top 5 New Year Resolutions:

#1: Be a better mom, wife and person

I have a couple ideas on how to go about this....I'll be trying them out

#2: Learn to sew a bit better - I want to make dresses for my girls

#3: Lose 10 lbs and be able to do 10-15 "real" push ups...I want to be strong and fit to keep up with my kids...and one day, my grandkids!

#4: Learn German - I want to go to Germany with my mom and best friend one day.

#5: More laughing!

I thought I might start off this new years with a little bit of #5.....

from Sow Kindness Gather Love

from Urban Outfitters

from Tangled and True

this video makes me so happy and never fails to make me laugh!!

I have high hopes for 2012....it's going to be a great year!

Make sure to get your smooch on at midnight ( ;

Had a great Christmas

2011-12-27T18:18:00.000-08:00

We had a really really...just really really nice Christmas. Spent it with family and all our favorites...had so much fun giving and getting spoiled.

My husband out did himself as usual. I got a Speedlite, some extra SD cards, and an external battery pack for my camer, as if that wasn't enough he also got me gift cards to my favorite places from each of the kids (I love gift cards)...I really feel spoiled!

I made a couple crocheted gifts for family. I have been meaning to make my brother Chris, his Skull hat ever since I came out with the pattern last summer. I finally did it and now I have him modeling his hat in the shop (love that!)

More updates...My husband and I have also been trying to play more games with eachother....we broke out RISK and I got clobbered the first game...

Yep, I was playing red.

mean....

BelleChic sale again! Yay!

2011-12-21T12:25:00.000-08:00

The sale is on! I'm excited to be able to work with the awesome people over at BelleChic again. It's such a great site with really great deals!

Sale is going for only two days and there is a limited amount so hurry scurry ( :

BelleChic

See the BelleChic Mamachee Crochet Pattern Sale here. There are some single patterns and pattern pkg's that I put together so take a look around and see if anything tickles your fancy.

Here are just some of the patterns you'll find for sale ( :

and lots more...

More Updates - on a roll!

2011-12-19T22:33:00.000-08:00

Got the Neck-warmer Headband Pattern redone and added some new photos. The flower is a little bit different. I added optional leaves and made the pattern a bit better for a better looking Rosette. It's not a rolled rose either - crochet it and weave in ends, no sewing. : )

I thought the rosette would look really cute on a skinnier headband..so I added directions on how to make a skinny headband. Here is my little bald Christmas Angel!

This headband is the same pattern as the neck-warmer just with some color changing and made much thinner.

Pattern is for a neckwarmer, earwarmer and the skinny headband in three sizes: Baby (Child, Adult)

It's called the Neckwarmer Headband crochet pattern - that name is so boring and unimaginative, I know *hanging head in defeat*

But!

I was also able to get some photo's of the adult size "Super Easy Cloche Brim Hat" too - I added a simple fabric band to it and really liked it!

I'm on a roll - and doing this pattern got me going with another idea, I'll be working on a new pattern this week. Hopefully I'll have something to show you before Christmas ( :

Speaking of Christmas...I found this very cute mistletoe headband tutorial I thought you might enjoy (cuz I do!)

but be careful who you wear this around....mkay? find tutorial here: PinkSuedeShoe

Muah!!

Christmas bling

2011-12-12T15:11:00.000-08:00

Cinderellas Wish by Everlastinglifashion

From Beautiful Sensations

Source

Instructions for adding hair tinsel from Hair Extensions Fashion

Winners for 1 free pattern from Optimistic by Nature

2011-12-12T13:08:00.000-08:00

Thank you so much Katie for doing a giveaway with me. It was so much fun getting to know you better and I wish you all the success you can handle ( :

Winners are....

1. Kjirsten

2. Francie

3. Ninfa

4. Breeni Books (Crochet Cauldron)

5. Sara Nicole

Congratulations you guys!!

Please pick out your free pattern here and shoot me a quick e-mail to mamacheepatterns at gmail dot com letting me know your choice and we'll get your pattern to you.

Thank you so much you guys and thank you again Katie!!

Super Easy Cloche Brim Hat - that's a mouth full

2011-12-10T23:10:00.000-08:00

Finally finished updating this pattern. If you have purchased this pattern in the past, please feel free to send me an e-mail to mamacheepatterns at gmail dot com letting me know you would like the updated pattern, please just provide your date of purchase and I'll send the pattern to you asap.

I added a large yellow slouchy bow to the side, it looks so neat....I love the color combo! (the bow is not included in the pattern).

I also added two optional rows to the pattern to make the brim a bit smaller or larger.

Some Pattern Notes:
Pattern comes in 5 sizes from Baby to Adult. Basic needs for this pattern are Super Bulky Yarn and an N hook. I tried using two strands of Vanna's Choice worsted and that worked pretty well...the gauge was slightly too small.
So I tried using three strand Worsted Yarn and that was too tight and gave a larger gauge..haha. If you have this pattern you might try using 3 strands of a lighter Worsted weight Yarn, if you don't have any bulky.

It would be hard to find a hat that works up easier or quicker than this pattern, I'm always so happy with how this hat turns out.

Just a reminder too...All the finished products from Mamachee Patterns can be sold. I just ask that if you sell them online that you please give me credit for the pattern with a link to the pattern shop.

If you would like to purchase this pattern it is available here and here.

I hope you all are having an amazing holiday season...with lots of love, warmth, and crocheting (or other great diy)!

and I'll leave you with something funny...I love a good funny!

source...Jason Boyles Facebook

Optimistic by Nature - Crochet Designer Interview and Giveaway

2011-12-09T13:09:00.000-08:00

Meet Katie!

Katie here is the name and face behind Optomistic by Nature

* etsy * blog * ravelry * facebook *

Tell us a little bit about yourself?
I live in norther Norway on the coast. Beautiful nature surrounds my world and inspires me. And hey - we need warm crocheted hats, mittens, scarves and sweaters here! I have a great husband, Oystein and a charming little 1 year old. Oliver is very visible on my blog... he is my main crochet inspiration and model! I work with culture as an administrator and freelance musician and have the worlds best hobby - crocheting.

What inspires you to create?

I have just started designing patterns and am inspired by just about everything I see. Norway is a country of knitters and it is cold here. We have no shortage of sweaters! Now that I have kick-started my design brain I really can't shut it off - and I don't want to! I have many patterns in my mind waiting to be patiently tested out. I think the whole key to creating is having fun. Creating can't be forced. You have to love it into being : )

Katie's newest crochet pattern: The Ribbed Sock (comes in 7 sizes)

When/how did you learn to crochet?

I seem to remember my grandma teaching me long long ago. I learned to knit when I moved to Norway in 1999 but struggled to finish projects. About a year ago I took up crocheting after my sister in law got into amigurumi. I googled and found Tara's Bird rattle and the rest is history. : )

Is there another crochet designer that inspires you?

Tara! I love Mamachee patterns. I especially love the tree and bird rattles - a perfect combination of crochet and nature : ) Also: easy makes me happy, too! That is why I prefer crochet to knitting. I think it is easier. : ) I hope to one day also have made my mark on the crochet world - that lots of mommy hands work up my patterns and little toddler heads style them!

*blush*

Thank you Katie!

Here is my favorite of Katie's designs (the Bonnet Balaclave).....I wish I had the time to try some of her designs...more time, longer days...that's what I think I'd like for Christmas : )

If you would like to see all of the Optimistic by Nature designs go here

Bonnet Balaclava in all sizes

and...you can sell all the finished items made from Katie's Patterns, she just asks that you please give her credit for the pattern with a link to her etsy shop.

Thank you Katie for sharing your designs with us! I look forward to seeing what else you have up your sleeves for us!

The GIVEAWAY (5 winners for one free pattern)

1. Starts today
2. Like and/or Follow Katie's blog and/or facebook
3. Leave a comment
4. Ends Monday the 12th

see below for more info

Katie is giving away 1 free pattern to 5 people and all you have to do is go over to either follow Katie's blog or like her facebook (or both!)

Let me know in a comment that you liked or follower OptimisticbyNature and you'll be entered to win. If you wish, please provide me with an e-mail address so we will have an even better chance of getting a hold of you.

This giveaway will run for today, Saturday and Sunday...I'll announce the three winners on Monday (the 12th)

Garland review for Janee Lookerse

2011-12-05T12:57:00.000-08:00

Christmas tree! We were really good this year and got our Christmas tree up just a couple days after Thanksgiving. I love the lights! I love sitting down on the couch in the morning and watching the twinkling lights on our tree.

I just added some pretty Garland from JaneeLookerse to my tree, I love the cute handmade feel it gives.

This garland came to me in a very nicely put together package from JaneeLookerse. Yep, I love her toys and her Garland! The garland came rolled on a sturdy piece of prepared cardboard, which is so nice because when it comes time to take down the Christmas decor it will be very easy to grab that carboard and roll this stuff right back up for easy and very compact storage. I have two strands of Christmas Garland and they really add that perfect something to the tree and the home.

If someone asked about the garland, I would feel more than comfortable to send them over to Janee's shop. The garland is very well made, is a great price and.....it's just the perfect little dainty piece of pretty!

She has lots of other awesome garland too! It's all really fun...here are some of my other favorites:

White Pom Pom Garland...I want to add little snowballs to my house : )

To Go Bag Garland....nothing better than purchasing recycled handmade stuff (there is too much stuff in the world already)

Blues and Greens...this garland reminds me of the tail of a kite

Just in case you missed it here is a link to her shop: click here

Cloche Hat Crochet Pattern - Some New Pictures

2011-12-04T15:51:00.000-08:00

Nasty day out today....it's around 40 degrees (above 0), the snow is melting and the wind is blowing pretty bad. Tomorrow will be worse, it's supposed to be around 8 degrees. All that melted snow will be freezing...It's going to be an icy mess out there. I don't think I'll be driving anywhere any time soon...so today I'm thankful for my yarn and crochet hook ( :

My little Samantha modeling a little boy hat from the "Cloche Brim Hat Pattern"....man, this hat would look so adorable with a couple little pink flowers on the side. I should have added some for her.

This hat is the easiest and fastest pattern to work up and it has a great little brim effect added. I used two strands of worsted for this hat and the gauge turned out a little small...I might try using 3 strands next time but otherwise this pattern calls for super bulky yarn with an N hook and comes in sizes baby to adult.

This hat would really help make your holiday handmade gift giving work up much faster ( :

Perfect Alphabet Letters

2011-12-02T20:48:00.000-08:00

I've had my eye on this fabric alphabet. I love having the alphabet everywhere for my kids and have you ever seen a prettier set? You should definitely visit the shop here (there is a boy themed alphabet too)

JaneeLookerse

so, I got my hands on some of these! and they are perfect!

Here are mine...

One letter for each of my children. So special! The kids love them and so do I. I'm thinking about making these into Christmas Ornaments but I'm not sure Jordan and Galilee would like that.

I have to add this one too....look at those Squishy Arms!

S is for Samantha

G is for Galilee

S is for Summer

Janee (one little person), is a perfect example of why we should all try our best to buy handmade and support our local artists.

When you purchase something from a small business artist.....

you get a quality handmade item made with thought, creativity and love.

you almost always feel an instant connection to the artist and you really do care for and love your item far more. It's kinda weird but very true and very fun!

you instantly make two people happy: yourself and the artist.

you are supporting someones dream to do what they love to do...and that feels good!

you get to communicate with the CREATOR of the item and tell them first hand...I LOVE what your doing!

Buying handmade is what your great great Grandma used to do ( :

Please consider buying handmade...especially this Christmas season. Buying for yourself is only second best to buying gifts for your loved ones.

and if you happen to stop over at JaneeLookerse, let her know who sent you....that would make me super happy!

Here is where you can find her....

Blog * Home Shop * Toy Shop

and here is the face behind the handmade Alphabet, and her other half. Nice faces!

Thanks Janee...for being awesome, for going after what you want to do, for making awesome stuff and for smiling so pretty in that picture above ( :

Christmas decor

2011-11-30T18:14:00.000-08:00

Christmas Felt Garland from JaneeLookerse

Four Seasons Ornament SarahElisabethArts

4 Reindeer from acasadoquaxinim

Pillow from SimplicityForYou

Vintage Ornaments from NeedfulJunque

Vintage 70's Red Dress from rockthisvintage

Antique Christmas Postcards from becaruns

New Pattern - Hansel and Gretel Hat

2011-11-26T16:44:00.000-08:00

Newest pattern! The Hansel and Gretel Hat.

You know that fairy tale don't you? It's a scary one : )

Here is the new pattern:

The Gretel hat

Our sweet little Samantha got to model this one....I think she has a promising future modeling crochet wear ( :

The pattern comes with a base hat...the base hat is the Hansel hat, then you have the option of adding pretty trim to the hat (like a candy house) to make the Hansel hat a Gretel hat. The pattern includes 10 different edging patterns to choose from.

You can also do the whole hat using one edging.

Here is what the Hansel hat looks like

The pattern comes with all sizes Newborn to Adult and the basic needs for this pattern is worsted weight yarn, I hook and (optional Sport weight yarn with C hook for daintier edging)

This is a fun pattern to play with. If you are interested, the pattern is available for purchase at my etsy crochet pattern store here or in my blog crochet shop here (for instant download)

I love crocheting!

Big Giveaway going on

2011-11-23T17:41:00.000-08:00

There is a big Giveaway going on over at Yellow Bird Yellow Beard

It's worth taking a peak just to discover some new blogs and etsy shops.

There are 14 prizes and there will be 14 winners.

I am part of the giveaway so there is also a chance to win 5 free Mamachee crochet patterns!

The awesome highlights of this giveaway (for me) are:

A gray cuff from one of my favorites shops: Ponderandstitch

A YBYB Etsy Shop Credit for $25

and a lolliband from Whimsy Lane

Click here and see the rest of the stuff up for the winning.

Ginger - Frames of Infinity - Photography

2011-11-23T16:53:00.000-08:00

Hey everybody! Happy Thanksgiving Eve!!

We get to cyber meet Ginger! She is an awesome, super friendly, crafty lady behind Frames of Infinity Photography in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. My favorite thing about her work is that she incorporates her own craftiness into her photography (she sews, crochets and makes a lot of her own props)....her work definitely makes me smile! You'll soon agree with me....I'm sure of it!

Here she is...Hi Ginger!

What is your favorite thing about photography?
I would have to say that my favorite thing about Photography is capturing the love between families. To see REAL joy and love in everyone's eyes as they interact makes my heart happy. In a world that changes so quickly, it's nice to see that there are other families that actually LOVE being together.

What is your all time favorite photoshoot?
This was actually the hardest question to answer. I pretty much cater to families, and their babies so I would have to say all of them. Newborn sessions do have a special place in my heart though. Who can have a bad day when part of their day is spent with a beautiful sweet smelling newborn.

What is your favorite photo that you've taken?
I've taken so many images that I love of other peoples families, but one I got this summer of MY babies has to be my favorite. I had had a vision last winter of lots of green grass and balloons...and I just have to say that I did a happy dance as I saw it all come together. Cate had just stated walking that past week, so she was still in the super wide legged toddler stage. I knew it would only come together with luck, but it did. What you can't see in this picture is my AWESOME husband who was just out of the shot who kept running to get her and starting her toddle over again. My son was running laps around the fountain, and the other park guests had just moved out of the shot on the other side, SOMEHOW Fiona just happened to pause and Cate just happened to look at the same time. And I caught it. Not sure how, but I did. We loved it so much that we blew it up to fit over our fireplace.

Your such a creative photographer, what or who inspires you or what's your creative process?
I try to find inspiration everywhere. I love the thrift store, swap meets and vintage shops. Etsy and Pintrest are amazing sources to gather ideas, but honestly I usually find one piece somewhere that I love and go from that. I love to sew for my kiddos and they usually end up with some one of a kind piece that we put to good use. I get really excited when I find really original pieces.

Do you have any suggestions or helpful insight for those wanting to start there own photography business?
Don't be discouraged, nor in a rush. Photography is about always learning, changing and seeing things in a different way than everyone else sees it. It takes years to find your own style, but once you do, it all just comes together. Photography is about more than what camera you carry, or how much money you spent on editing software. It's about creating, and capturing the world through YOUR eyes. Take the time and do it right and it will pay off.

I love these shots too....

Thank you so much for sharing with us!

Find more Ginger: Website (Frames of Infinity) Etsy Shop Facebook

Warming my heart!

2011-11-21T21:11:00.000-08:00

Julie Paisley Photography

I can't get enough!

Another Blog

2011-11-21T07:16:00.000-08:00

Hey Everybody!

Not big news but, as you know, I love to crochet!
and so...
I've been working on a new "all crochet" blog and having a lot of fun with it.

It's going to be a pattern directory of all the best patterns (including my own) that I find around the internet. I'm going to try and stay away from larger companies and stick with the Smaller, Independent designer patterns.
Every pattern is well tagged and once the website is full of patterns, the tagging will allow for easy searching to help find what your looking for....I'm pretty excited about it.

I hope you'll take a peek at the new blog - see it here

I really like old stuff

2011-11-17T13:32:00.000-08:00

Vintage 1960's Metal Tonka Toy - from MattiesMenangerie

Antique Kids Scissors - UrbanRenewalDesigns

Instant Collection of Vintage Child Books - Wonderlandtoys

Vintage Booster Seat from SweetlingVintage

Embroidered Home Decor from ManateesToyBox

Vintage Child's Metal Chair from AngelaHarrington

Handmade Vintage Child's Vest from LishyLoo

Opa Slippers - Newest crochet Pattern

2011-11-14T15:15:00.000-08:00

Newest Crochet Pattern - It's The Opa Slippers! This slipper comes in Boys/Men sizes 1-13 uses Worsted weight yarn and a K hook. This crochet pattern is available in my etsy shop here and will be available in my blog crochet shop soon.

Josh really likes his pair....he doesn't have a lot of crocheted stuff from me but he is always so good about wearing what I do make him. Makes me happy.

I'm very excited about what I'm working on next....I already have something else getting pattern tested (woo to the hoo!)

Feeling Artsy

2011-11-13T21:50:00.000-08:00

Fine Art Print by Siiso

Photography Print by Farbklecks

So Charming! Print by DoyleMaher

Print by ARTByTraceyChikos

Print by BellaWonderella

Vintage Baby Quilt Giveaway Winner

2011-11-13T12:20:00.000-08:00

Winner: Angel Jennifer

(chosen by the random # generator)

Note to Angel: you provided your e-mail address so I will be contacting you, if you do not see an e-mail in your inbox then please feel free to contact me and we'll get your quilt on it's way to you.

Thank you so much to all those that entered the giveaway!

New Photos (Elisabeth headwrap and Loopy Hoody Cowl)

2011-11-09T23:40:00.000-08:00

I'm still going through and updating old product photos...that lack (I just don't like a lot of them)

Today we had a photo shoot for the Elisabeth Headwrap and the Loopy Hoody Cowl (with and without ruffles...I love ruffles!) Both these crochet patterns are available in my etsy shop or on this blog (see left sidebar for crochet shop)

Here is an old photo of the Elisabeth Headwrap. It's the best modeled photo that I had....it's definitely lacking. I didn't have a photo of the headwrap modeled by an adult either.

Here is what we shot today....

I forgot to get a picture of just Galilee in a headwrap by herself....it was super cold outside.

And then the Cowl....

Here are the old photos

Uck, I was big pregnant with baby Summer in this photo....I can tell that I smoothed out the bags under my eyes and....well, uck haha...

My sweet Galilee was so tiny! but the background was no good....no good t'all.

Here are the new photos from today....(I still had the same cowls)

I think this next one is my favorite from today...

it's not the best one as far as quality and my hair is a bit goofy but it looks like we form a heart...this photo makes me that happiest.

Sporadic News

2011-11-09T22:47:00.000-08:00

News...
Do you live in the LA area? I wish I did....Janee, from Yellow Bird Yellow Beard is speaking tomorrow night (7-9 pm) at the Urban Craft Center in Santa Monica. Short notice but make sure you go if your in driving distance...take your picture with her and send it to me (I really hope somebody actually does this...haha)
More details here (club etsy)

(above...that's Janee)

More News...

There is a Mamachee Crochet Pattern Giveaway going on over to Our Seven Dwarfs Craft blog. Shannon and Jill are celebrating their first year of blogging with a whole bunch of giveaways. See more here.

Vintage Handmade Baby Quilt Giveaway (ends Sunday, Nov. 13th 2011)

2011-11-06T12:28:00.000-08:00

Giveaway ended

I love going shopping at second hand stores and was very excited about this find! The problem is that although I LOVE vintage and snatch stuff up whenever I can...I have limited display space in my home and really would rather not store anything but would like to give it away to someone that will appreciate it as much as I do!

This giveaway will run for 1 week (it will end on Sunday, November 13th)

To enter this giveaway please leave a comment (leave e-mail address if you like) telling me what your favorite craft is and let me know that you are following this blog...I'll be doing more vintage finds giveaways in the future too!

Tell your friends ( :

I think it's exciting to do vintage giveaways because for the most part...they are one of a kind!
This baby quilt is hand stitched and embroidered and has the cutest...ever so slightly creepy...bears : )

Hope you Win!

Giveaway Specifics: I'll announce the winner next Sunday (Nov 13th). The winner will have 3 days to respond to me...after three days I'll choose another winner and so on. I'll be happy to pay for shipping within the United States but if you need this quilt shipped outside of the US then I might ask you to help with the shipping (if that's okay then please feel free to enter the giveaway!)

Scarves

2011-10-29T22:18:00.000-07:00

DIY scarf from Cotton and Curls

from Pinterest

from Brittany Smith on Pinterest

I love scarves!

this video is a must see....really.

BelleChic = Awesome

2011-10-28T13:14:00.000-07:00

What BelleChic has to say about themselves:

"BelleChic is your place to buy handmade goods from the world's best artisans. Be inspired by their artistry, passion, and creativity while you discover BelleChic - "the beautiful style"

Not only will your find savings of up to 75% off, you'll meet your new favorite designers. In short, it's the best of the best of handmade."

I love what BelleChic has done so far and I look forward to seeing more of what they have for us.

But today and for the next two days, I get to be the featured designer! (WooHoo!!) Lots of Mamachee patterns are on super sale for the next couple days over at BelleChic.

Check the sale out here

Belle Chic: Website Blog Facebook

Photography Group

2011-10-16T20:55:00.000-07:00

My sister-law invited me to join a photography group (Fairbanks SMUG) with her. We went together last Friday to our first SMUG meeting and it was really nice! I enjoyed myself very much and it really helped get me off my butt and start playing with my camera again.

So this morning these Swans (Bert and Uma) visited our lake. PERFECT opportunity to practice with my camera and editing software!!

Swan - la pomme Flickr page

Etsy Shop: SundriesAndPlunder

Gilad's Origami Page

Love being you

2011-10-10T10:03:00.000-07:00

thisilk

TheMeasure

Crocheted Doily Blanket by OMGKnits

TheWhirlwind

envelopes made from vintage fashion Magazine pages from Celessa

Hanging Flower Tutorial and beautiful photos!

2011-10-07T22:46:00.000-07:00

All the wedding photography below was done by

Rebecca Kurber Photography.

Rebecca did an amazing job and was so nice!

Check her out! especially if you live in Fairbanks or surrounding area.

Facebook * Blog * Website

Such a fun wedding! My brother (front/right groomsman) was also in the wedding and my little Galilee was one of the flower girls (flower girl on the left)

One of my favorites of Laila and Ryan

Everything was perfect! I loved every minute of it, it was so awesome being able to be apart of it all. I really wish I could have helped out more with the wedding but little Samantha was born on August 10 and the wedding was the 27th but I got to make the flower girl tutus and these hanging flower decorations (see the two photos below)

Best wedding ever!!

The hanging flowers were really EASY and fun to make and I think they make great wedding/girl party decorations. So I put together a little photo tutorial so show you how easy it is.

Materials:
Yarn needle
Green Yarn
Fake Flowers in pretty colors and their leaves
Some floral tape
Glue gun

Make sure your fake flowers have a hole through the center big enough for your yarn (most do)

Thread your yarn and then your flowers

I placed each flower around 7 to 12" apart....once the flowers are where you'd like them to be on your yarn, glue them in place with your glue gun. Then glue your leaves around the flowers if you want. If you have some ugly areas where you've glued them leaves to the yarn, you can wrap it with the green floral tape. Makes a very nice finish...and I love playing with floral tape (fun stuff!)

pretty!

Smile

2011-10-02T22:00:00.000-07:00

Source

TheCreatveMama.com

Source

The Smiling Victorian Flickr Group

Source

Smile...it's better than makeup and muscles.

Adorable Newborn Photo Session in Yarn

2011-09-27T16:07:00.000-07:00

Photos are from Wildflowersphotos.com - what an amazing, creative and fun photographer!

To see more adorable Clemetine/Yarn newborn Photos: See blog post here

love!

Sharp Crochet Hook Giveaway Winner

2011-09-27T14:29:00.000-07:00

DRUM ROLL PLEASE......

Source

Congratulations Kimberly!! and thank you so much to those that entered to win!

I do need to say a quick apology - I thought I was supposed to announce the winner today but I just realized that I wrote i was going to announce the winner on Monday. So sorry about that! I hope it didn't inconvenience anybody!

If you would like to see more about the sharp crochet hook see here - it really is a must have for us crocheters ( :

and thank you so much Jessica for being willing to do this giveaway - I wish you loads and loads of success with you awesome product....that all of us crocheters are kicking ourselves in the butt for not coming up with it ourselves. haha

live and learn....or not

2011-09-24T15:13:00.000-07:00

Source

What this means to me:

Stop fretting about all those lemon bars you ate yesterday and....

Source - recipe

remember to add strawberries next time ( :

Crochet edging Patterns

2011-09-22T11:36:00.000-07:00

Little crochet edging pattern

Materials:
*I used a Sharp Crochet hook - this hook has a sharp point at the tip to make is much easier to push through fabric.
*Size 10 cotton thread
*An edge you want to make extra pretty
*Scissors
*Yarn Needle

Top Layer edging:
You'll need a multiple of 3 plus 1 for your base row.
Rnd 1 - Sc base sc row around edge, join with sl st to first sc of rnd
Rnd 2 - Ch 1, Note: working first st's into same st you joined into *(dc, ch 2, dc) in same st, skip next 2, repeat from * around, join with sl st to first dc of rnd.
Rnd 3 - Ch 1, work 4sc into each ch 2 space around, join
Fasten off and weave in ends.

Bottom Layer edging:
You'll need a multiple of 3 plus 1 for your base row.
Rnd 1 - Sc base sc row around edge, join with sl st
Rnd 2 - Ch 1, sc in each st across, join with sl st to first st of rnd.
Rnd 3 - sc (in same st you joined into), Ch 4, skip 2, *sc in next, Ch 4, skip 2, repeat from * around, join to first sc of rnd.
Rnd 4 - Ch 1, *work 5sc's into each ch 4 space around, join.
Fasten off and weave in ends.

Right now I do have a giveaway going on for a Sharp Crochet Hook..it ends September 26th 2011. For more information see here

Meet Jessica / Sharp Crochet Hook /

2011-09-19T00:01:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to introduce you to Jessica.
Jessica has an awesome product (the Sharp Crochet Hook), below is her interview (a very good read!) and she is doing a giveaway with us so keep reading because I bet'cha you'll want one of her crochet hooks!

Here's Jessica:

Who taught you how to crochet and how long have you been crocheting?

My mom taught me how to crochet when I was six years old. That means I've been crocheting for 20 years! Wow!

What is your favorite yarn to crochet with?

My favorite yarn depends on what project I am doing. I love to use the size 3 crochet thread for crocheting edges on flannel baby blankets. Lately, I love to use the Caron Simply Soft yarn for baby blankets because it washes well, is really soft, and comes in really fun colors...but usually I just use whatever is on sale thought! haha!

Do you enjoy any other crafts? which?

I love all kinds of crafts. If I have time tonight I'm going to sew a little project for my daughters. It's a maze made out of fabric where you sew the walls of the fabric and use a marble to go from one end to the other. If it goes to plan, it will be a portable, quiet, somewhat educational toy for them to enjoy.

Tara Note: She had time to make a maze....I have a photo of it too. Such a great idea! I think I'm going to have to make one too!

Last week I had my two older girls paint a 10x13 canvas black. Then I covered each girl's foot with white paint and put it on the canvas. I wrote on the top "The Taufer Ghosts" and "2011" on the bottom. I added an orange bow and googly eyes to the "head" of the ghost (the heel of the footprint). Hung it with a ribbon. Ehh, not the best craft to do with small children (black paint! yikes! why would I do that??), but the end result was dang cute!

Tara Note Again: I got a photo of this project from Jessica too....she was right, dang cute!

Tell us a little about yourself.

I married my husband when I was a senior in college, I've been married almost 7 years. I am lucky enough to have three beautiful, healthy daughters. My oldest is four years old.

I don't do pets. I tried keeping a goldfish alive about a year ago, but it only lasted a few days. Luckily I've had better luck with my daughters! haha!

My personality.....I would like to think I'm this really great, super mature mom, but really I'm just a kid in a grown up body. I am probably more silly than my four year old at least half the time. Like, I heard this joke the other day and I laughed so hard: "What is Beethoven's favorite fruit?" "Ba-na-na-naaaaa." Or, the other day I had a "shopping cart race" with my four year old down the aisle at the grocery store.

Likes....I draw with chalk with my girls in the driveway, ride bikes with my girls around the neighborhood, paint my girl's toenails, play in the sandbox with my girls, etc. I'm a stay at home mom, so most of my "likes" are doing what my daughters are doing. For fun (without my girls), I like to go to dinner with my husband or with my friends. Going out to eat is my favorite. I'm not that good of a cook, and cleaning up dinner after a long day is so not fun. My friends and I go out about once a month, and if we go out on a Wednesday we almost always go to Village Inn because it's their "Free Pie Night." (Free pie, another like!)

What is your favorite snack/dessert?

Great question! My favorite is the Ghirardelli brownie mix. I'm saving my box to make when I lose the last of the baby weight (I still have 8 pounds left!) So, while working on loosing the rest of the weight, I'm TRYING to be healthy, but I have such a sweet tooth, so it's hard. At night, I like to snack on chips and salsa (or if I feel energetic, I'll make bean dip!), or cold cereal. When I need a pick me up I go to the Andes Mints, Twix, or just straight up chocolate chips or chocolate chip cookies.

This is going to sound gross, but when i was pregnant, all I wanted was pickle brownies. Brownies smothered in relish. Yum.

How did you come up with the idea for the Sharp Crochet Hook?

I'm lazy. No really! I hate using more effort for something than necessary. I have been making a lot of the flannel baby blankets where you crochet an edging around it.

I was just pushing a normal crochet hook through the fabric (I'm way too cheap to pay to get it hemstitched!) and I thought "THIS SUCKS!" So, the Sharp Crochet Hook was born out of my laziness, really. haha. It saves so much time and makes crocheting edgings much more enjoyable (and cheaper then hemstitching!)

Here it is:

A little about the hook:

The Sharp Crochet Hook!! It is ideal for crocheting edges through fabric. The sharp pointed head glides through fabric and paper much easier than normal crochet hooks do. You can use it to crochet edges on all kinds of things - flannel baby blankets and burp cloths, socks, gloves, scrapbook pages, birthday cards, guest towels, etc. The best part of using the Sharp Crochet Hook is that you don't have to get it hemstitched (with the presewn holes), or poke holes through it before crocheting. It makes it quick and easy to crochet edgings through all kinds of fabric.

Jessica was kind and so generous to send me one of her Sharp Crochet Hooks and I LOVE it!!

I had an old vintage bath towel that i've been using for little fabric crafts. I cut out a square and made a dishcloth. I can't tell you how happy I am with how it turned out, I loves it! This crochet hook pushes through the terry cloth much easier than a regular crochet hook and you know I'm all about EASY! I also took one of my other dishcloths and added another pretty edging to it (this edging is a free edging patterns that comes with the crochet hook).

Cleaning up messes should be a little less ugly around here ( :

Yep, I'm so happy with my new hook.

Giveaway Closed

The Leaves are turning to the Orange side

2011-09-17T20:18:00.000-07:00

Wood Midnight Doily by UnCommon

Vintage Necklace from UrbanCottageStudio

DirtyBirdyVintage

bhg

Vintage Bowl from RabbitandRally

Vintage Linens Bunting by BlueAcresFarm

AmeliaKayPhotography

Buccaneer Bootie Crochet Along Winner

2011-09-16T12:25:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much Renae. After you've picked out your 5 free patterns just send me a quick e-mail to mamacheepatterns@gmail.com letting me know what your picks are and I'll send them right over.

I just want to say.....

Source: The Black Apple and Etsy Shop (very cute stuff!)

Yes, thank you kindly to all those that took the time to vote and to those that entered their Buccaneer Booties in the Contest! You guys are the best!!

Till next time!

Buccaneer Bootie Crochet-a-long Contest Finalists - Vote today!

2011-09-15T12:24:00.000-07:00

Show a bootie some love and vote for your favorite!

This was very hard to choose....the pictures were chosen each with one or two of the following factors: creativity, quality of photo and quality of crocheted bootie.

Here are the finalists:

To Vote: see the right-hand sidebar poll box (scroll down a bit to find it). Select your favorite and hit "vote" I hope you'll take the time to vote for one of these booties

I want to give a huge THANK YOU to all those that crocheted-a-long with me this past week. It was really fun!! All of the entries were beautiful and I hope everybody enjoyed doing this as much as I did!

If you'd like to take a peak at all the entries see here

Thank you again! until next time ( :

Smooch

2011-09-14T18:43:00.000-07:00

Source: Embrace life

aww, their shadows are kissing....a sign of true love!

Source: http://www.barmsheimer.blogspot.com/

Not a kiss (although, I suppose one could argue that their ears are kissing...no?) but still such a great photo (love it!)

Source: lelove

Source: Kallie Anna

Source

I'll have to do this one day ( :

Source

A kiss a day keeps the doctor away!! I'm a real believe in preventative medicine such as happiness (lots of smiling), positive outlook, keeping active and kisses ( :

Buccaneer Bootie Crochet Along!

2011-09-13T18:50:00.000-07:00

1 week is almost over! It's time to share your photo's to enter to win 5 free Mamachee Patterns!

You'll have all night today and all day Wednesday (linky will close 11:59 p.m. Alaska Time on Wed the 14th).

I'll select 4 of my favorite photo's. I'll be looking for a couple different things...creativity, quality of bootie, quality of photo and # of likes on the photo's. On Thursday I'll post the photo's of the four winners and you'll be able to vote for the winner. I'll announce the winner Friday.

BUCCANEER BOOTIE CONTEST

enter your photo below.

Here is what I made over the past week.

I know, they don't look like the buccaneer bootie...but they are, just with a different buckle.

and here is your surprise: a new buckle pattern for you!

0-3 mo. Granny Buckle
With CC1, Ch 3

Rnd 1 – Work 12 hdc’s into 3^rd ch from hk. Join with sl st to first hdc of Rnd.

Change to CC2

Rnd 2 – Ch 2, skip next 3 hdc’s, work 6hdc’s in between the posts of the 3^rd and 4^th hdc’s of previous Rnd, *Skip next 3 hdc’s, work 6hdc’s in between posts, repeat from * two more times. Join

Change to MC

Rnd 3 – Ch 1, sc in next 2, Ch 4, sc in same st, (sc, 2hdc) in next, hdc in next 6, (2hdc, sc) in next, sc in next, Ch 4, sc in same st, sc in next 3, 2sc in next 2, hdc in next 4, 2sc in next 2, sc in last 2.

Fasten off and weave in ends.

Note: Finished Buckle should measure slightly under 2” wide and slightly over 2” tall.

3-6 mo Granny Buckle

With CC1, Ch 3

Rnd 1 – Work 12 hdc’s into 3^rd ch from hk. Join with sl st to first hdc of Rnd. (12)

Change to CC2

Change to MC

Rnd 3 – Ch 1, sc in next 2, Ch 4, sc in same st, (sc, 2hdc) in next, hdc in next 6, (2hdc, sc) in next, sc in next, Ch 4, sc in same st, sc in next 3, 2sc in next, 2hdc in next, hdc in next 4, 2hdc in next, 2sc in next, sc in last 2.

Fasten off and weave in ends.

Note: Finished Buckle should measure slightly under 2” wide and slightly under 2 ¼” tall.

6-12 mo Granny Buckle

With CC1, Ch 3

Rnd 1 – Work 12 dc’s into 3^rd ch from hk. Join with sl st to first dc of Rnd. (12)

Change to CC2

Rnd 2 – Ch 2, skip next 3 dc’s, work 6dc’s in between the posts of the 3^rd and 4^th dc’s of previous Rnd, *Skip next 3 dc’s, work 6dc’s in between posts, repeat from * two more times. Join (24)

Change to MC

Fasten off and weave in ends.

Note: Finished Buckle should measure slightly under 2 ¼” wide and slightly over 2 ¼” tall.

12-18 mo Granny Buckle

With CC1, Ch 3

Rnd 1 – Work 12 dc’s into 3^rd ch from hk. Join with sl st to first dc of Rnd. (12)

Change to CC2

Change to MC

Fasten off and weave in ends.

Note: Finished Buckle should measure about 2 ¼” wide and 2 ½” tall.

I hope you enjoy! and thank you so much to all of you that played-a-long with me!

Update day

2011-09-10T12:30:00.000-07:00

Did some crocheting last night, it felt so good! I haven't been able to crochet enough lately.

I've also been working a lot lately with collecting new and healthier recipes. I've really been trying to put together three healthy and yummy meals for my family everyday. Trying to get rid of the artificial as much as possible.
I was looking through this recipe book yesterday. I got it at a garage sale several years ago.

While flipping through, I came across this recipe...

It reads:

Elephant Stew

1 elephant, Salt and Pepper, Brown Gravy and Two Rabbits

Cut elephant into bite-sized pieces. This should take about 2 months. Cover with Brown Gravy. Cook over kerosene fire for two weeks at 465 degrees. This will serve 3,800 people. If more are expected, two rabbits may be added, but this only if necessary as most people don't like to find hare in their stew.

SO FUNNY! I've never seen a joke recipe in a recipe book before and it was a real treat!

Buccaneer Booties Crochet-a-long Contest (win 5 free crochet patterns)

2011-09-07T12:50:00.000-07:00

Jacqueline of Mukweto blog gave me an idea that I love and thought I'd try out. You all know that i love seeing finished product photo's!!

If this works out and you guys enjoy doing this with me then we may do this with many more patterns (fun!) but today we will start with the buccaneer booties.

The buccaneer booties pattern comes in sizes Newborn to 18mo. and is worked with worsted weight yarn and f hook. These would be great for your little ones with the cooler months coming or for a coming baby shower.

If you do not already have this pattern and would like to play along with this crochet-a-long then this pattern can be purchased here or here.

Here is what we'll do (the scoop):

Crochet-a-long starts today. After one week (next Wednesday, the 14th) I'll put together a linky party where you can share your photo's and links of your finished Buccaneer Booties crocheted up how you like them. On Thursday (the 15th) I'll choose my favorite 4 photo's and let you guys vote on the best photo. The winner will win 5 free mamachee patterns.

How does that sound? If you are going to play along please leave a quick comment on this post to let me know. I'm excited!!

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Crochet Blogs

Family

2011-09-02T15:20:00.000-07:00

Source

Family!! Nothing better than that. I wish I had a better understanding of how important family was when I was growing up. I used to go every summer to visit my dad in West Virginia...when I was 14 I stopped going, because of friends, sports and other stupid and selfish excuses. I regret that so much!
I didn't visit my dad again until I was married 4 yrs later and 7 yrs ago. I hope I can visit again soon!

When I think about how to raise my kids one of the most important things I want to teach them is how important it is to always put family first. To love, help and stick by eachother no matter what....I really hope I can accomplish this and my children will grow up and never be too far away from me or from eachother....because they don't want to be.

Source: think nice

We took family photo's a couple days ago. Our family has grown so much...wowzahs

Josh did so good setting up the camera with our Gorillapod (I love it!) and taking our family photos with the timer.

Source: Professional Snapshots

When all the kids are bigger, i'd like to try and get a photo like this.....looks neat and would be fun!

Source: Max Wanger

Hope you guys are enjoying your day and hope you will go give all your family (you can get to) a big hug....right now!

Wedding Shower and Paper Flowers.

2011-08-25T14:21:00.000-07:00

My best friend is getting married in 2 days! I'm so excited!!

I helped throw a wedding shower for her back on the 13th. It was so fun. My favorite craft that I tried out was these crepe paper flowers that we added to the cake that Angela (my sister-in-law) made...it was a GORGEOUS cake!

I made these flowers with help from the crepe paper flower tutorials from The bride's Cafe and Country Living

The inside of the cake was just as pretty as the outside!

Here are some fun images from the party (I love a good party!)

This is Laila, the bride to be!

Awesome Friends!

more food....

Angela made these awesome rainbow fruit skewers too...inspired by this post on Quick Dish

Weddings, friends, parties, babies....it's a great month, this August!!

My Mama

2011-08-23T22:44:00.000-07:00

My mama with her newest Grandbaby.

Does everybody think they have the best mother in the whole world? Cause I do.

This morning my mama sent me an e-mail just to see how I was doing and also sent a quote that I had to share...cause it's such a great one!

"Knowing how to communicate with others - is the road to a happy life, knowing how to communicate with yourself - is the road to Bliss!" Ellie Walsh

So true!

Love you mama and thank you for everything!

Re-visint old Patterns - Flower Hats

2011-08-16T23:46:00.000-07:00

Love this pattern! I love the rolled brim look on the kids (so cute!) I updated this pattern, added some helpful photo's, explained some potentially confusing parts better and took/added better photo's. If you have previously purchased this pattern, please feel free to write me and ask about the updated pattern, I'll be more than happy to send you the update.

Here are a couple of the old photo (pattern designed and written up back in 08)

Sweet little baby Galilee was the model

Here are the new pictures. I still need to get some more but...for now

The Rose Hat.

The Daffodil Hat.

The Exotic Flower Hat.

The hat is made and the flowers are crocheted onto the hat so there isn't any sewing the flower onto the hat later. But....if you wanted to make these flowers and add them somewhere else on the hat (or another hat), there are directions on how to do that as well.

Basic needs for this crochet pattern are I hook and Worsted Weight Yarn.

Pattern also comes with directions on how to make a simple rolled brim hat (with no flower) in every size, so this pattern can be used for your boys too ( :

Pattern comes in every size from Newborn to Adult (0-3 mo, 3-6 mo, 6-12 mo, Toddler, Child and Teen/Adult)

Pattern can be purchase for instant download from the blog crochet shop here or at the etsy crochet shop (where i'll e-mail the pattern to you within 24 hrs.) here

Another grumpster face from little Summer ( :

My next mission is to start making little newborn hats for little Sammy to model....I have a hard time photographing newborns though so we'll see how this goes.

New Baby Smell!

2011-08-16T11:38:00.000-07:00

This is my new little love...Samantha (Sammy)

I can't believe she is here!! I love her SO much!

Sammy's Birth Story:

My first child was a hospital birth, my second was a home birth and my third was a birth center/water birth.

For baby #4 we decided to have a home birth again and everything went very smooth. I finally went into labor after being 10 days past my due date (not fun...time doubles after you pass the due date...so 20 days late! haha)

It was the weirdest labor I've had, it's so true that every baby is different. My contractions were getting very strong but they were never getting regular, I had a couple that were still 30 minutes apart. I finally called the midwives after i had some really strong contraction that was 6 minutes from the last one. Josh was on the phone with the midwives when I went to the bathroom to go pee and my water broke. After my water broke, there was very uncomfortable pressure but the contractions seemed to stop. I knelt down, pushed three times and out came our sweet 9 lb. baby girl. The midwives missed this birth. My sweet husband had already cleaned everything up and had me and the baby tucked into bed when the midwife got to our house. They checked over the baby and I, gave hugs and headed back to the birth center. Easy Peasy...haha, that's an exaggeration but still pretty true ( :

Sammy just a couple hours old...she was so cute and chubby already ( :

She's really excited to start modeling for me too ( :

Re-visiting old Patterns - Angela hat

2011-08-06T20:19:00.000-07:00

The Angela Hat - two of the original photo's from 2009 (this is Galilee when she was a bitty baby!)

I wrote up this pattern back in 2009 and it has been a favorite of mine ever since but I was never thrilled with the photo's. I'm not too happy with a lot of the original pattern photos and I've always wanted to go back and fix/pretty them up. Today I finished prettifying the Angela Hat Pattern and I added a flower to the pattern as well. (So please, if you have previously purchased the Angela Hat feel free to e-mail me and I'll be more than happy to send you the revised version!)

Here are the new photo's

This is Galilee now (still my pretty baby!)

I made one for me too...I should have slapped some make-up on ( :

and here's little baby Summer's hat

On to the next old pattern!

I LOVE white!

2011-08-05T15:38:00.000-07:00

I think my favorite thing about white is how it makes color really pop!

Lil'Pumpkin Patch Hat Crochet Pattern

2011-08-04T17:59:00.000-07:00

My little grumper model ( :

my favorite thing about this pattern is the leaf, I've been working on and off on a leaf like this for a while and I finally came up with something that made me happy.

Pattern comes in all sizes: Newborn, 3-6mo, 6-12mo, Toddler, Child, and Teen/Adult

Basic needs for the pattern is H hook and Worsted weight Yarn. Pattern is available for purchase here and here just in time for Fall/Harvest/Halloween/Thanksgiving.

Source

Kinies on Etsy

veryKIKI on Etsy

From BLSoaps on Etsy

From FairyFolk on Etsy

AmaltheaCph on Etsy

Candy Corn Child Dress by LittleTicket on Etsy

Earrings from Sarahhickey10 on Etsy

New-ish Crochet Pattern....

2011-08-03T11:12:00.000-07:00

Remember the Chloe Slippers?

Now they come in Adult Sizes too (size 3-12)!!

Pattern is available in my etsy shop or on the blog crochet shop. This is the first pair of slippers that I've worked this way and they are a lot more fun to crochet than most styles.

Basic needs for pattern are J hook and Vanna's Choice Yarn.

Pattern comes with a pattern for a little 5 petal flower as well.

Sneak Peak on what's coming soon (Pattern Testers are testing now)

Lil' Pumpkin Patch Hat in all sizes

Updatings

2011-08-02T13:34:00.000-07:00

Hi Everybody!! I hope this post finds you all living happily with a smile on your face and perhaps a crochet hook close by.

I'm waiting very un-patiently for the arrival of our baby (Due Date Aug 31st) and to pass the time, I've been crocheting and cleaning like a mad woman. I have a new pattern being tested right now and I'm almost done with a new pumpkin hat, I can't wait to show you!

I've also been soaking in some crocheting inspiration this morning...worthy of sharing!

From A Foothill Home Companion

I don't understand the crochet rock cozy but I do love them for some reason!!

From Creative Jewish Mom

Crocheting a rug with sheet yarn....I really like the idea!

From A shoebox of Photographs

Love the tassels on this colorful crochet bunting!

Source

I wish trees grew these colors!

Source

....interesting aren't they ( :

Now if you don't mind....think baby thoughts for me and hopefully I'll be able to introduce a new baby to you soon.

Crochet Pattern Shop News - Instant Download Option!

2011-07-28T01:01:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how much crocheting I've been doing over the past several years! (whoa)

First I want to thank all of you for all your awesome support! All of you make what I do WAY more fun and possible, you guys really are the best of the best!

Crochet Shop News:

I'm excited to say that I've finally been able to put together a more fun way to get Mamachee Patterns. You don't have to wait for an e-mail anymore....there is now a Mamachee Crochet Pattern Shop on this blog that will allow you to instantly access your pattern order after payment (nice!) You can find the "Crochet Shop" link on the left sidebar...very excited about it!

Happy Dance!

Good Mail and Other great stuff

2011-07-27T19:31:00.000-07:00

Wha What!? Is that more Ponder and Stitch?...yes it is!! I picked myself out another cuff too. A friend of mine that recently moved away sent me a gift certificate to PonderandStitch as a Baby (pamper mama) gift.

I can't believe how sweet you are Jamie! Thank you!!

and here's the new cuff - I love these cuffs so much! and look at those stitches....flawless!

I think I might have to ask Amy to make a cuff for my daughter because she really wants to be just like mama.

I am so happy with everything, thank you again Jamie and thank you Amy for making great stuff!

so...now you know what is making me smile today...here is some stuff to make us all smile!

these are kind of random but worth it ( :

From the innerhooker on etsy....whoa that's cute!

Source - dzineblog360

source

Birdsong Giveaway - ends August 1st.

2011-07-26T10:49:00.000-07:00

Hi! Just letting you know about a really awesome giveaway going on that I'm apart of....It's a really fun giveaway, I wish I could enter!

It's hosted by Birdsong Bows, Thank you Deanna!

Prize Package:
A $125 Logo from Boutique by Design
The Juliette Dress from 1 Puddle Lane
Your choice of 3 patterns from the Lil Blue Boo Sewing Pattern Collection
Your choice of 5 patterns from Mamachee
A $25 Gift Certificate to The Ribbon Retreat+Fabric
Your choice of 5 patterns from Birdsong Bows and Patterns
Your choice of 3 patterns from Tie Dye Diva

Giveaway is going on right now (ends August 1st). Soooooo, if you interested then head on over to Birdsong Bows Blog and enter to win.

Popeye Booties

2011-07-24T13:22:00.000-07:00

The Popeye Booties were one of my very first patterns from 2008. They work up really quick and adding the knit fabric is so fun (so much you can do!) Good way to recycle a bit of a knit shirt. The knit fabric makes these booties very functional as well....keeps those booties on nicely.

I thought this pattern needed some freshening up. So I worked up a couple and took some better pics for the pattern shop

It's really fun picking out the fabric for the little botties

Online Finds

2011-07-22T20:56:00.000-07:00

Hal Taylor Rocking Chair, via bookofjoe

Great Idea...easy way to smooth ribbon, via RealSimple

Genious! via pinterest

Love the idea of making a large craft table out of two dressers back to back...Skooksplayground

five pillow cases sewn together....just add pillows and you have a little play mat (love!) via Alea Peters on pinterest

Love this idea from Centsational Girl

NEW PATTERN! Chloe Slippers

2011-07-20T13:07:00.000-07:00

I love this pattern! I like them so much I'm working on the adult sizes now. These little slippers works up so quick (with a J hook and Lion Brand Vanna's Choice Yarn), look so cute and are very functional (my favorite!). You can make these with the strap (mary jane style) or without (ballet flat style)

Pattern also includes a simple little flower to add to the slipper if you want.

Slipper pattern comes with 6 sizes from tiny Newborn to Size 12 (approx size to age: Newborn to age 6 yrs.)

This crochet pattern is available for purchase at the Crochet Pattern Shop now....Oodalalee!

....

...Makes me happy!

2011-07-18T17:39:00.000-07:00

Just sharing some photos of things/people that make me smile!

My daughter's smoochy lips and pig tails

My son loves dressing up.

Date night with Josh!

Trying on silly glasses on date night. We bought the circle ones that Josh is wearing. Wearing fake glasses is so much fun!

my kids getting to meet and love their great grandma! Four Generations in this photo!...and I thought you guys would like to see "the belly" that my daughter is sitting on (only 2 weeks left!!)

My babies and their great grandma (visiting from Texas). Doesn't she look amazing! I hope I'm around to meet my great grandchildren and can play with them like she did. She loved them so much and they loved her and I really LOVED seeing that!

New Family Edition! My nephew Gage was born under a week ago and look....

He is already smiling! Congratulations Ang and Lael, he is gorgeous!!

Chevron Stripes Sewing Machine Cover

2011-07-13T21:17:00.000-07:00

I've needed a sewing machine cover for a long time

....good news! I finally made one.

It's basically just a crocheted sewing machine blanket. It works great as just a drape over the machine but I wanted to close it up so I cut and sewed fabric for the sides. It also seemed fitting that there was a little bit of sewing involved in a sewing machine cover ( :

just in case anybody is interested in crocheting a sewing machine cover, I took notes so I could write up the pattern for you. It's pretty customizable if your sewing machine is smaller or larger than mine (read pattern notes)

Materials:

*Worsted weight yarn (I used Vanna’s Choice)

You’ll need a Main Color (MC) and 3 Contrasting colors (CC) for your chevron stripes

*K hook

*Yarn Needle

*Scissors

Gauge: 6sc’s and 8 rows = 2” square

My finished sewing machine cover measures 16 ½” wide and 26 ½” long.

Pattern Notes: If your sewing machine is smaller, then you could make this cover smaller by subtracting 6 stitches from your foundation chain…this will take away 2” from your sewing machine covers width. You can also make this cover wider by 2” by adding 6 st’s to the foundation ch.

Sewing Machine Cover

With MC Ch 50,

Row 1 – sc in 2^nd ch from hk, sc in each ch across. (49)

Row 2 – Ch 1 and turn, *sc in next, hdc in next, dc in next, 3tc in next, dc in next, hdc in next, repeat from * 7 more times, sc in last st.

With CC

Row 3 – Ch 1 and turn, sc2tog, sc in next 2, 3sc in next, sc in next 2, *sc3tog, sc in next 2, 3sc in next, sc in next 2, repeat from *6 more times, sc2tog.

Row 4 – Repeat Row 3

With MC

Row 5 – Ch 3 and turn, tc2tog, dc in next, hdc in next, sc in next, hdc in next, dc in next, *tc3tog, dc in next, hdc in next, sc in next, hdc in next, dc in next, repeat from *6 more times, tc2tog.

Row 6 – Ch 1 and turn, sc in each st across.

Row 7 – Repeat Row 6

Repeat Rows 2 through 7 two more times. Then continue working sc rows until the cover wraps nicely around your sewing machine.

After cover is long enough Fasten off and weave in your ends.

Notes: to work this pattern up a bit faster you could work dc's instead of sc. I think it would also be fun to just continue the stitch pattern (Row's 2 through 7) throughout the whole cover with lots more Chevron Stripes in lots more colors!

....

Get your smile on : )

2011-07-13T14:33:00.000-07:00

Via The bottom of the Ironing Basket

Via Lost Bird Found

Via Piccsy

via Kyle Bridges on Pinterest

Via Life is actually pretty great

Why so quiet.....

2011-07-13T00:43:00.000-07:00

It's another ..."I'm still alive" post. I just don't seem to get to blog as much as I want. Do you want to hear my latest excuses, there pretty good I think.

My Oma...my kids great grandma! was up for two weeks. I LOVED seeing her!

Here is a four generation photo we took...all of us our first born girls (except for Oma). Another thing that might be of interest is that our birthdays are all within 8 days...kinda weird huh?

My son turned 5 and we gave him his birthday party (so he could "get bigger")

Can't believe he's 5 already...time does fly when your having fun. This little guy is SO much fun!

and my last excuse(s) is I'm 37 wks pregnant (woo hoo, almost done!) and I have to clean up after these two and the smallest one (not photoed)

I can't believe I get to meet and hold my new precious little baby in as little as two weeks! I'm getting anxious!

Ponder and Stitch Bracelet Story

2011-06-27T22:43:00.000-07:00

I've featured bracelets from ponder and stitch, I've been reading the ponder and stitch blog for a long time...I don't know how long I've been drooling over her vintage fabric bracelets and now...I GOT ME ONE!

ISN'T IT PRETTY!!!

The sweetest part of this story is that this bracelet was a surprise sent to me from Janee of Yellow Bird Yellow Beard.

I can't believe how sweet and thoughtful you are Janee! and I hope you know how much I appreciate you and how much I LOVE this bracelet...it's not only just my taste but it's also full of happy energies that remind me of sweet people and encourages me to put extra thought into others....whether it be to buy someone a little something that will brighten their day, go the extra mile, or to just speak more kind and encouraging words.

You've definitely helped in making my life better and more fun.....thank you!!

The bracelet is so well made and if I get my way, I'll definitely be ordering more.

I've hardly taken the bracelet off since I received it. Ponder and Stitch does beautiful and perfect work. I highly recommend her bracelets, she just recently added necklaces too so definitely check her shop out.

This bracelet has become one of my favorites. I thought I'd show you guys two of my other favorite bracelets that have special meaning to me as well.

I got this little bracelet on my honeymoon....7 yrs ago (wah-ho! I still can't believe I've been married that long). The bracelet has taken a beating over the years, all my children have tugged, slobbered and gnawed on it (My husband has had to fix it a couple times). I hope it will live forever!

This bracelet belonged to my best friend's Mother who passed away when I we were both 16. She was the sweetest woman, an amazing mother and she is very very missed. I have nothing but good memories of her and feel honored to be able to wear this beautiful bracelet!

Do any of you have any jewelry or accessories you love that have special memories attached to them?

BE UNIQUE Chevron Blanket Crochet Pattern

2011-06-26T15:54:00.000-07:00

I've been loving all the chevron popping up for home decor and accessories. I was definitely inspired and wanted to crochet something...a chevron blanket!..I love how it turned out so much!

The crochet pattern is available in the etsy shop.

I'm going to make one of these for each of my children, can't wait to get pictures of all of them with their blankets!

So what I'm saying is....It's NEW PATTERN DAY!! a very happy day!

Here are some Etsy Chevron finds to help celebrate!

From CastleCreekCreations

From SteamPunkFunk

From BlueNini

From WitAndWhistle

From JillRosenwald

From UrbanTot

HAPPY FATHERS DAY

2011-06-19T13:35:00.000-07:00

from kathrynwhyte on etsy

Be Different Act Normal

How about Orange

Here are a couple family photo's of my lucky babies and their dad (they have a great dad!)

Lamb Hat Winner!!

2011-06-19T13:18:00.000-07:00

I've consulted the Random Number Generator and Erica O. was the chosen one ( :

Winner: Erika O.

Thank you so much to everybody that entered. I plan on doing another giveaway soon for a rainbow necklace....excited about that one (I LOVE those necklaces!)

Wedding Weekend!

2011-06-17T11:53:00.000-07:00

I'm going to a wedding today and tomorrow! I'm so excited...happy people, pretty dresses, beautiful hair, kissing....cake! and lots of smiles. Weddings are just a good time and I'm so happy for the couples!

Max Wagner

Poppytalk

Wedding Hairstyles

luck love kisses cake

Ashley Rose Photography

Source

Inspiration in black and white

2011-06-14T11:00:00.000-07:00

From The Intellectual Redneck Ninja Surfer

I usually hate doing one photo posts but this really says a lot (don't it though?)

Adult Size Lamb Bonnet Giveaway!! (6/12 - 6/17)

2011-06-12T10:56:00.000-07:00

A chance for you too be a silly Lamby too!

I thought it would be fun to do a giveaway and everybody seems to love this Lamb bonnet so here is your chance to get one (you don't have to make yourself).

This is a giveaway for one Adult Size Lamb Hat (female not included)

To enter the giveaway all you need to do is comment (one comment/person please) and let me know that you are a follower of this blog. EASY! (feel free to leave your e-mail address, it will help assure I can get a hold of you)
Ending date: Giveaway will run for one week, I'll announce the winner on Sunday. All entries up until the time I announce the winner on Sunday, June 19th will count.

Not required but If your feeling extra feisty, I'd love it if you could help spread the word (via your own facebook or blog) about the giveaway. It would make me so happy I would jump up and click my...hooves!

Side Note: The crochet pattern for this lamb hat (size newborn to adult) is available in the etsy Pattern shop.

Here are some great wool finds I put together in honor of the giveaway. To see the full treasury and to be able to visit any of the items from these talented sellers click here

Lacy Lace

2011-06-09T22:24:00.000-07:00

Wedding Whimsy

Weddingandcakes

Lacedandwaisted on etsy

Lace fence by Demakersvan

TheWhirlwind on etsy

A little Pattern Giveaway and a GREAT Blog

2011-06-08T20:59:00.000-07:00

Meet Janee

If you want to meet her more (you do!), visit her blog here. Ever since I visited her blog for the first time it has been one of my favorite stops every day. Her blog has a perfect mix of everything nice and it's inspiration soaked.

I was excited to get to do an "interrogation" with Yellow Bird Yellow Beard and we coupled it with a little crochet pattern giveaway.

Follow this link here to read the interrogation and learn about the giveaway (giveaway ends on Saturday - 6/11)

New Crochet Pattern: Sandals for Toddlers and Children

2011-06-02T10:08:00.000-07:00

These are the Pammy Sandals just in kid sizes and with a back-strap option (really makes a difference for the smaller sizes) I always try and make all my patterns as functional as possible and these are very functional, they stayed on my kids very very well and they loved them!

Pattern comes in 5 sizes: 4-5, 6-7, 8-9, 10-11, 12-13

Pattern also includes a simple little fower pattern

Good Mail Day!!

2011-06-01T21:59:00.000-07:00

Sweet Sweet Amanda of Sugar Mama's Sweet Boutique sent me a package!! Can't believe how sweet and thoughtful she is.

If you would like something extra special crocheted for you or for a gift you should definitely check her out.
Sugar Mama's Sweet Boutique on FACEBOOK WEBSITE

Well, are you ready to see what she sent me!

....My very own pair of Oma House Slippers dipped in Strawberry! I LOVE them!!

and a little pair of matching strawberry booties for my new baby coming soon. Way too sweet!

I can't wait to put my own little package together for her...what should I do...hmmmm.

But really, check her out...she has VERY reasonable prices, does lovely work and is a super sweet SAHMama.

Searching and Sharing

2011-05-27T23:15:00.000-07:00

Gorgeous Quilt from Red Pepper Quilts

What a unique and ADORABLE wedding! From 100 layer Cake

What!? So adorable!! From My Blond Ambitions

Look at that...pretty unique for a tat. Found on Pinterest, pinned by Stacey Thayer-Cordes

Cute idea! Found on Flickr from Rosa Marrero

New Crochet Pattern - Adult Pammy Sandals

2011-05-24T12:21:00.000-07:00

New Pattern Day! This usually means my house is a disaster because of the final push to get the pattern finished, tested and perfected.....but weird - my house is surprisingly put together/clean. Maybe I'm learning to balance myself? Could it be?

This pattern is named after my step mom, I can't imagine how hard it would be to be a step mom but Pammy always did so great making me feel comfortable and loved. Love you Pammy!

The Crochet Pattern for these Sandals is available in the crochet pattern shop now
Adult Women Sizes: 3-4, 5-6, 7-8, 9-10

Frilly Dress Upcycle - Frilly Skirt

2011-05-17T00:25:00.000-07:00

I love skirts for my little girl and frilly/twirly skirts even better!

I came across this dress in a thrift store.

I'm not too excited about bibs and frill..everywhere.

This dress, as is, is just too matchy matchy and poofy for my taste.

but I loved the skirt on this dress and so...

I just cut the top off the dress, leaving enough fabric to fold down, and add elastic to make a simple, elastic waste-band.

I wish I took more tutorial type photos for you but this is about all I have - I know, major fail! This post is meant to inspire more than teach...not to mention my sewing skills (and lingo) are almost non-existent.

The dress used to only fit my 1 yr old...now the skirt fits my 1 yr old and my 3 yr old.

I look at those outdated-overly frilly dresses much differently now.

I have to take a sec and say something about this amazing mural/shop in the background of these photo's. This mural was painted by Brianna Regan and Mark Leon on the side of Chartreuse. Chartreuse is a unique gem of a shop here in Fairbanks, AK. If you live here and haven't checked them out you definitely should!

3 1/2" Quilt Inspired Crochet Square

2011-05-10T01:01:00.000-07:00

A while back I fell in love with a piece of wall art I found at modobject at home, so until I get my husband to make one for me...I satisfied my lust with a new crochet square pattern and made myself the a pillow.

Materials:

*I hook

*Worsted weight yarn in two colors

I used Caron Simply Soft

(which is very similar to Bernat Satin)

MC: White

CC: Any color

*Yarn Needle

*Scissors

Skill Level: Intermediate/Advanced (because of all the color change and a weird stitch)

Gauge: Pattern makes a 3 1/2" square

Pattern Notes:

You will be counting your turning ch as a stitch. There is a lot of color change throughout pattern. When changing color just drop working color and pick up new color, dragging your colors around back side of your work as you work. There are notes on color change and special stitches below.

Square

With CC, Ch 2

Rnd 1 – work 8sc’s in 2^nd ch from hk, join with sl st to first sc of rnd. (8)

Rnd 2 – Ch 2, work 2dc’s in same st as join, With MC, 2dc in next, *With CC, 3dc in next, With MC, 2dc in next, repeat from *2 more times, With CC, join with sl st to the top ch of your beginning ch 2. (20)

Rnd 3 – Ch 2, 2dc in next, dc in next, With MC, (fpedc, hdc) in next st, (hdc, fpedc) in next st, *With CC, dc in next, 2dc in next, dc in next, With MC, (fpedc, hdc) in next st, (hdc, fpedc) in next st, repeat from * two more times, With CC, join with sl st to the top ch of your beginning ch 2. (32)

Rnd 3 Help:

With MC, (fpedc, hdc) in next st…..

Once you’ve worked your fpedc around the post of the next st, you will need to pull your working yarn and fpedc out of the way a bit to work your hdc into the front and back loops of the same stitch
Rnd 4 – Ch 1, yo, insert hk into same st you joined into, yo and pull up a lp, yo and pull through two lps on hk, yo and insert hk into next st, yo and pull up a lp, yo and pull through two lps on hk, yo and pull through all remaining lps on hk, dc2tog, With MC, (fpedc, hdc) in next st, sc in next 2, (sc, hdc, fpedc) in next st, *With CC, dc2tog twice, With MC, (fpedc, hdc) in next st, sc in next 2, (sc, hdc, fpedc) in next st, repeat from * two more times, With CC, join with sl st to top of first dc decrease. (36)

This is how your work should look after the first double crochet decrease…you should have two remaining CC color stitches left for the next double crochet decrease.

Rnd 5 – Ch 1, yo, insert hk into same st you joined into, yo and pull up a lp, yo and pull through two lps on hk, yo and insert hk into next st, yo and pull up a lp, yo and pull through two lps on hk, yo and pull through all remaining lps on hk, With MC, (fpedc, hdc) in next st, sc in next 5, (hdc, fpedc) in next st, *With CC, dc2tog, With MC, (fpedc, hdc) in next st, sc in next 5, (hdc, fpedc) in next st, repeat from *two more times, With CC, join with sl st to top of dc decrease. (40)

Fasten off and Weave in ends.

Help with color change:

Always change color in the last step of the stitch just before color change.

Ex: Double Crochet before color change: yarn over, insert hook into next st, yo and pull up a loop, yarn over and pull through two loops, drop working color, yarn over with new color and pull through last two loops on hook.

Special Stitches:

Fpedc (front post extended double crochet) – yarn over, insert hook around post (see photo), yarn over and pull up loop, yarn over and pull through one loop, yarn over and pull through two loops, yarn over and pull through last two loops on hook.
Dc2tog (double crochet two together/double crochet decrease) – yarn over, insert hook into indicated st, yarn over and pull up loop, yarn over and pull through two loops, yarn over, insert hook into next st, yarn over and pull up loop, yarn over and pull through two loops, yarn over and pull through all remaining loops on hook.

Notes on making the pillow:
I worked 9 squares and sewed them together. It makes about a 10 by 10” square pillow.

After I had the squares sewn together, I stretched the big square out nicely on a piece of pretty fabric and cut out a piece of fabric about ½” larger on all sides. I sewed in the ½” of the fabric square to make it the same size as my crocheted square. Then I used my sewing machine and sewed the big crocheted square to my fabric square leaving a hole big enough for me to stuff the pillow. After I stuff the pillow I sewed that little hole up by hand.

© Copyright Notice: You have permission to sell the finished product for this pattern but rewriting, reselling, distributing, or copying the pattern itself is prohibited. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. If you decide to sell the finished products from any of my patterns, I just ask that you please give me credit for the pattern with a link to my shop www.mamachee.etsy.com or blog www.easymakesmehappy.blogspot.com

....

EASY

First Mittens pattern and matching cable cowl.

Update

Happy New year 2012!!

Had a great Christmas

BelleChic sale again! Yay!

More Updates - on a roll!

Christmas bling

Winners for 1 free pattern from Optimistic by Nature

Super Easy Cloche Brim Hat - that's a mouth full

Optimistic by Nature - Crochet Designer Interview and Giveaway

Garland review for Janee Lookerse

Cloche Hat Crochet Pattern - Some New Pictures

Perfect Alphabet Letters

Christmas decor

New Pattern - Hansel and Gretel Hat

Big Giveaway going on

Ginger - Frames of Infinity - Photography

Warming my heart!

Another Blog

I really like old stuff

Opa Slippers - Newest crochet Pattern

Feeling Artsy

Vintage Baby Quilt Giveaway Winner

New Photos (Elisabeth headwrap and Loopy Hoody Cowl)

Sporadic News

Vintage Handmade Baby Quilt Giveaway (ends Sunday, Nov. 13th 2011)

Scarves

BelleChic = Awesome

Photography Group

Love being you

Hanging Flower Tutorial and beautiful photos!

Smile

Adorable Newborn Photo Session in Yarn

Sharp Crochet Hook Giveaway Winner

live and learn....or not

Crochet edging Patterns

Meet Jessica / Sharp Crochet Hook /

The Leaves are turning to the Orange side

Buccaneer Bootie Crochet Along Winner

Buccaneer Bootie Crochet-a-long Contest Finalists - Vote today!

*Smooch*

Buccaneer Bootie Crochet Along!

Update day

Buccaneer Booties Crochet-a-long Contest (win 5 free crochet patterns)

Family

Wedding Shower and Paper Flowers.

My Mama

Re-visint old Patterns - Flower Hats

New Baby Smell!

Re-visiting old Patterns - Angela hat

I LOVE white!

Lil'Pumpkin Patch Hat Crochet Pattern

New-ish Crochet Pattern....

Updatings

Crochet Pattern Shop News - Instant Download Option!

Good Mail and Other great stuff

Birdsong Giveaway - ends August 1st.

Popeye Booties

Online Finds

NEW PATTERN! Chloe Slippers

...Makes me happy!

Chevron Stripes Sewing Machine Cover

Sewing Machine Cover

Get your smile on : )

Why so quiet.....

Ponder and Stitch Bracelet Story

BE UNIQUE Chevron Blanket Crochet Pattern

HAPPY FATHERS DAY

Lamb Hat Winner!!

Wedding Weekend!

Inspiration in black and white

Adult Size Lamb Bonnet Giveaway!! (6/12 - 6/17)

Lacy Lace

A little Pattern Giveaway and a GREAT Blog

New Crochet Pattern: Sandals for Toddlers and Children

Good Mail Day!!

Searching and Sharing

New Crochet Pattern - Adult Pammy Sandals

Frilly Dress Upcycle - Frilly Skirt

Smooch