Singing, Dancing, Cats, Growing Old....Neglecting things!!

I originally started this blog to keep a sort of record of my past and to put up the designs I crochet.  But I never did keep it up.  I have had the stomach flu for 8 days.  Wow.  Bo-ring.

Trish and I entertaining.  What fun!!  Trish has a voice that is so wonderful!  And mine is more jazzy/throaty.  Now when you add Sue!!!  We do good.  Smile.

I have been singing karaoke more.  And am now crocheting a girl's top.  I have wanted to do this pattern for ages and am now working on it!  Proud of myself, me.
Want to wish everyone a Happy and Blessed New Year.  Gotta stick more with my promises to myself.
Emma

Oh Wow....Getting Old isn't Easy!! But I'm not aloooonnne!!!

Yikes.  Aches, ,pains, hard of hearing, unable to carry things for long distances, etc etc.  Is this a complaint?  Probably. I wanted to share my latest things I have crocheted for Christmas gifts.   The above is three cardigans I made for  my dil and granddaughters.  I am hoping they will have their photos taken in them.  I think they will be so great!  Very simple.  The basic pattern is from an old 1973 McCall's Crochet Treasury book and I changed it a bit to update it.  The yarn is #3 weight yarn and it was hard for me to hold on to it, however, I persevered.  Ta-da.
It is raining today...the kind of rain that we used to love to play in when we were kids...wet, lots of it, big puddles.  So much fun.  I loved walking through it today.  Thank you Mother God and Father God for the rain.  I love it as I love You!

Here is another work of crochet:   It is from the 100 Hats book and it is a guy's cap. I kind of like it.  I made them for my sons and grandsons.  They are warm.  I also made the felted handbag below.  My friend lined it and I gave it to her.  It was fun to make and used up a wool yarn the color of which I didn't know what to do with....terrible grammar, but you get the idea, I think.
 I have been doing a lot of farmville on FB.   It is kind of neat to socialize with people while I am working on the "ole' farm."  I am in touch with my friend Patricia, friend of 60 years!  And it is a relaxing way of spending a little time socializing.  I also crochet while I am on farmville.  Sometimes it is slow that I crochet a whole scarf.  Hm.  Internet, gotta love it.  I don't have much else to write except I pray every day for my son Shawn, Brendan and his family, Kevin and Jenn, and Timothy and Julie.  I love them.  I hope they know it.  Mistakes be darned.  I have always loved them!!  He who is without sin may cast the first stone..... and that stuff.  Blessed Be!!

A Lifelong Fear of Cats and Dogs

All my life I was deathly afraid of dogs and terrifically nervous about cats.  Whenever my family and I were going to go somewhere, I had to realize that I might spend the whole time in the car or hiding because wherever we were going there might be a dog or cat.  It is a lousy way to spend your life as a child but even lousier as you become an adult.

I couldn't sleep in a house with cats unless I had control over the door of the room in which I slept so I could be sure where the cat was at all times.  I ran into my house when I was a teenager because the man nextdoor had a dog who might be unleashed.  What a lousy way to live.  I walked to our church and went in the back door and spent hours teaching myself to play the piano.  On the way was a German Shepherd and he barked and barked...but one day he was out and he bit me.  It speaks to my love of piano that I kept walking to the church and played anyway, however, I now had to find a different route to the church.  Life was scary!
People were always telling me that their animal wouldn't hurt me.  Didn't matter what they said, I didn't TRUST animals.
Then, when I was 55, I was staying with my goddaughter and a stray cat left one of its kittens (about 2-1/2 weeks old) and she brought it into the house.  I feel instantly and totally in love.  This cat had HUGE feet.  Smile.  And lots of fur.  And I took the kitten to the vets and got all the info I needed to raise him.  I named him Regan, after one of my son's friends, because I liked the name, and proceeded to raise and train a cat.
I didn't get over my fear instantly (although it is totally gone now with only a healthy watchful eye when I meet new dogs and cats).  I waffled about keeping Regan.  One thing that helped me was that I made the decision to keep Regan as an indoor cat and when he was neutered, I also had his front claws removed.  I know there is a lot of controversy over that and I myself feel guilty once in awhile but it has worked just fine.   Regan is a Norwegian Forest Cat/Maine Coone type and has a wonderful personality and demeanor.  He still acts like he has claws.  We have been a very good and loving team for 8 years now.
Then came Bearli.  When I moved where I am living, there was a stray cat who had kittens and was instantly killed and a lady here rescued the kittens.  The first one was gray and it was only 12 hours old.  I was able to keep it alive until it was 4 days old and then AJ (April if it was a girl, June if it was a boy) died.  We buried it here under a beautiful marker.  Then I got the brother that was by this time 2 weeks old.  All black, tiny, bearly formed, covered with bugs, mites, and walking dandruff (my vet kinda laughed a little when his computer spit this info out as he had never seen it before) and skinny.  I pulled out my little bottles, got the formula and went to work.  Named this little tyke Bearli (after "bearly formed" and Bearli the goat from "Heidi" because this little kitten looked like a little bear cub).  And today Bearli is 2 years old and has a bit of a wild and jumpy streak in him but by the same token he will sleep in my lap for hours, very relaxed.
I have gone over in my past why I was so afraid of cats and have spoken to my sister.  She is the same way.  My paternal grandfather was quite mean to animals and used them for things better not discussed here and I think that is why we both reacted so badly.  But I am over it.  Yay!!  What a lifting.
I just wanted to share this with whoever. 
I am thankful to Mother and Father God for all that I have, all that I am, all that I will be.

Checking in

I have been ill and not able to design anything so have not been on here in a very long time.  I am not an important site so I think it is okay.  I thank you who have signed up as my followers.  I have been dealing with a minor stroke and new insurance.  I'm getting old.  If you don't know what that feels like (yet), it isn't for the weak.  Yikes!!  I look in the mirror and I see my grandmother.  I skipped my mother entirely!  Where has the time gone.  I know many many people write that but I am now just getting the heartfelt-ness of it. 
I think my job now is to relax, meditate, stay in touch with My Mother and Father God and look at people...really look at them.  I am enjoying it and find that life is so serene.  wow.
I have been crocheting though.  I have an old crochet book named, MCCALL'S CROCHET TREASURY from 1968 which has a really nice Shell-Edged Blouse on page 57.  I am on my third one and have adapted it and updated it a bit.  I have made them in darker colors and they look classy, without the collar.  I love the old books.
I have set up my patterns on ravelry.com and here.  I hope that you all have checked out ravelry.  It is a marvelous resource.  I love Lionbrand the best though, especially because all the patterns are free.
I hope you are all crocheting, learning about life, and have blessings many.
Linda

WONDERFULLY EASY BOOT SOCKS

Designed BY Linda Graimm, emmalemmon47@msn.com
**If you make the sock, please let me know if there were any errors.    Thank you.

Knit OR Crochet!! (Knitting directions with crocheted heel and toe are at the end of the pattern.)

This soft sock pattern is very adaptable. I made an adult pair and felted them, a change of hook size and/or yarn size could make a pair for a toddler. They work up SO quickly. I am the only one who has tested this pattern so, if you make them, please let me know if there are any problems or you have any questions.

MATERIALS: Worsted Weight yarn (I mostly used scraps so the socks don’t take a whole lot of yarn)
Size ‘I’ Hook = Women’s Size up to 8
Sized ‘G’ hook for toddler’s socks

GAUGE: Size ‘I’ hook = 14 hdc and 4 rows is 4”; ‘G’ Hook = 15 hdc/8 rows is 4”

NOTES:
1. The felted socks pictured were made with Patons Classic Wool and a Size ‘K’ hook (orange and gray).
2. The smaller knitted socks were made with doubled sock yarn.
3. Be sure to do original chain LOOSELY.
4. There is NO SEAM on bottom of foot so no discomfort from that.
5. Chain 2 does NOT count as stitch.
6. ALL BODY STITCHES ARE DONE IN BACK LOOP ONLY.
7. I wrote the pattern in Sections, as opposed to rows. It is easier to read (according to me tic).

Section 1: Chain 40 (loosely!), work hdc in 3rd chain from hook, and hdc across chain. Turn, chain 2 each row. (38 hdc)

Row 2-5: Working in back loops only, hdc across, chain 2, turn.  (38 stitches)

Section 2: Row 6: Work first 23 hdc, turn, chain 2. Leave remaining 15 stitches for now. Chain 2, turn. (23 hdc)

Row 7-11: Working in back loops only, hdc across, chain 2, turn. (23 hdc) Mark last stitch with scrap yarn or stitch marker. Fasten off.

Section 3: Attach yarn in same stitch as last stitch of 23 sts on Row 4 (where 23 worked sts ended), --Chain 2, work 1 hdc in back loop of next stitch and back loops of 14 more hdc. --Then Chain 2, turn (15 hdc), work 15 hdc in back loops for 5 more rows. (thus matching the first 6 rows of 23 sts). (15 sts) Fasten off.

Section 4: Turn Work. (See Photo B.) Attach yarn in marked stitch on 23-sts section, chain 2. Hdc (in back loop only) in this stitch and each stitch across 23 sts and 15 sts. (38 sts)

Note: I am calling the stitch that is between the 15-st section and the 23-st section a “Hinge” to make explanations easier.

Work four more rows in pattern (Ch 2, turn, hdc in back loops only across row). (you will have 8 “ridges” on the Right Side and 8 indentations on Wrong Side.) (38 sts)

Section 5: Chain 1, turn work and with 8 ridges on inside, slip stitch last row to original chain LOOSELY. This is wrong side of work. Fasten off. Turn sock Right Side out.

You now have what resembles a tube with a slash in it.

Section 6: TOE Attach choice of yarn color for the Toe anywhere on short end of sock nearest heel ‘slash’ (the 15-hdc side), I attached yarn lined up with the middle of what will be the heel.

--Ch 1, work 26 sc evenly spaced around toe opening. Join in 1st sc. Do NOT turn work, you will be working in rounds.
Row 2: Chain 1, sc in each st around, join. (26 sc)

Row 3-8: Flatten work with heel ‘slashes’ on side, Chain 1, decrease one stitch each side, join. (24, 22, 20, 18, 16, 14 sc)

Fasten off, leave long end for sewing. ON WRONG SIDE OF WORK, Flatten toe section so that heel slash is centered, sew seam. Check out Photo C.

Part 7: HEEL From Right Side, attach your choice of yarn color in end of first row just after “hinge” of heel slash. Work 26 sc evenly spaced around, join. (26sc)

Row 2: Chain 1, work 1 row of sc even, join. (26 sc)

Row 3: Slip stitch in first st, ch 1, sc around, placing a 3-sc decrease on each side (to 3-sc dec: pick up a loop in each of next 3 sts, pull through 4 loops) and join. (22 sc)

Row 4: Slip stitch in first st, ch 1, *sc in each of 4 sc, dec over net 2 sc* around to last 4 sc, sc in last 4, join. (19 sts)

Row 5: Ch 1, repeat Row 4 with only one last sc, crochet in last sc, join. (16 sts)

Row 6: Ch 1, *sc in 3 sts, decrease over next 2 sts* around, join (12 sts)

Row 7: Ch 1, *sc 2 sts together, sc in 1 st* around, sc in last st, join. (9 sts)

Row 8: Repeat Row 7. (5 sts)

Fasten off, leave a long end of yarn for sewing heel closed.
Flatten stitches and sew heel closed from Wrong Side. Weave in ends. 

KNITTING DIRECTIONS:

Size 10 knitting needles with worsted wt. yarn (The darker blue-variegated sockon the Left in the picture is knitted.)

--Follow directions above, substitute K2,P2 rib for Parts 1-5.

Ex: Cast on 40 sts, work in K2/P2 ribbing for needed amount of rows. Slip stitches not being worked to a stitch holder. Follow directions for crocheted heel and toe.

Swing Sweater addition ++

I had earlier made my doctor two sweaters and this is the third one.  She wears them so well! 

This is sans buttons as the doc didn't pick them yet.

Here is a picture of a car coat I made for my granddaughter (no head to keep the innocent protected!) from a designer pattern.

This next sweater is the famous "Sue's Hexagon Sweater" pattern which I got from http://www.ravelry.com/.

I have been working on a teddybear of odd colors and eccentricities plus a toddler's sweater with great bead buttons:

And I have finally finished designing and testing some crocheted socks.  I have had this silly pattern forever and worked on it from time to time and am happy to say it is now ready to be put up and I will do that in my next posting.  
Blessings on your day!!

I have been MIA for awhile...where has the time gone!!

I had designed an easy and soft pair of boot socks that could be crocheted or knit with a crochet heel and toe.  I came across it about 6 weeks ago and have been immersed in wonderful boot socks.   But they aren't done yet.  I have been testing it myself and due to brain fog (fibrofog?) [I very seldom use that excuse but it is the only one I could come up with at this time...:-) ].  Frustration.   So anyway, if anyone in the universe sees this and wouldn't mind testing this sock made with worsted weight yarn and size I hook, please let me know.  Thanks.
So I shall be back soon with or without the finished design but with pictures! 
Yesterday my son Brendan, his wife and their three children came to visit me.  I roasted chicken and potatoes with a greenbean vegetable.  And greatly enough, my dil, Julie, and other granddaughter showed up and we had a nice time!  We ate, hugged a lot, looked at little gifts.  Youngest granddaughter was all excited because she finally got her pez toy.  grin.
I am playing Farmville and Treasure Isle on Facebook.  Harmless and kind of fun.  Keeps my mind occupied when I am worried about things (like money).  SS cut my check by $110 and it was not even anything before that but now it is even less.  I am looking on this as a challenge to my organizational skills.  The GREAT NEWS is that I have lots of yarn from past endeavors to keep me busy as I am getting ready for a craft show in November.  Last year's fair was a dud because 7 other groups held their craft stuff on the very same day as ours.  Better research this year, what do you think???
Blessings to you all.  May Father and Mother God show themselves to you in small miracles.

No-Cut Towel Topper Crochet Pattern

I designed this pattern back in May of 2001 but didn't find it again until this past week!  My Aunt Jean makes these really neat towel topppers but she has to cut the towel and works directly onto the material.  I like changing things off so thought this might work better.  Be sure to use a light-weight towel on the strap. 

NO-CUT TOWEL TOPPER Designed by Linda Graimm

This would work in a kitchen or a bathroom.  If you try this pattern, could you please share a picture. Thank you.   Emmalemmon47@msn.com Don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions, comments, whatever. Enjoy!

MATERIALS:

Bernat Cottontots, 1 skein (I used off-white #90007)
(Country Mauve was done in Lily Sugar’n Cream, 1 skein with Contrasting Color of Ecru scraps)

Size H hook

GAUGE: Not super important

INSTRUCTIONS: Hanging loop -- Ch 9.

Row 1: Sc in second ch from hook; sc in ea ch across. (8 sc)

Row 2: (buttonhole row) Sc in first 3 sts, ch 2, skip 2 sts, sc in final 3 sc. (6 sc and 2 ch)

Row 3: Sc in each of first 3 sts, 2 sc in ch, sc in ea sc to end.  (8 sc)

Row 4-30: Ch 1, sc in ea st across, turn. (8 sc)

FYI:: The off-white towel topper looks a bit different because I did the Reverse sc or Crab Stitch in two of the unworked loops at intervals.

NOTE: The following rows are worked in back loops of each st except where noted.

Row 31: 2 sc (in back loops of all sts) of firsts sc, 1 sc in ea st across to last st. In last st, work 2 sc in back loop (10 sc thus far);

--now ch 20, turn and slst in each ch to beg of ch (19 slst)

(You will be making a round) Work in REMAINING LOOPS of last row, 2 sc in 1st st, sc in each of next 6 sts, 2 sc in last st;

--insert hook in top of ch loop and first sc of Row 31, ull yarn through all loops. (This makes the loop for the towel to hang on). Ch 3, TURN.

NOTE: WORK IN ROUNDS FROM NOW ON.

Round 1: In back loops only, 1 dc in same st as joining, 2 dc in each st across, keeping towel loop to INSIDE of work. (42 dc, you might have to fudge this a bit)

Round 2: (back loops only) Ch 3, 1 dc in same st as starting ch, 1 dc in next st, *2 dc in next st, 1 dc in next st.* Rep * to * around. (63 dc)

Round 3: (back loops only) Ch 3, place one dc in ea st around. (63 dc, counting turning chain)

Round 4: (back loops only) Ch 3, TURN, dc in ea dc around. (63 dc)

Round 5 & 6: Repeat Round 4, turning each round.

Round 7: Working on Wrong Side of work, (sc, ch 1) in back loops of ea st around.

(I changed to a CC on the Country Mauve towel topper.). Join. (63 sts with 63 chains)

Round 8: Working on Right Side of work, Ch 3, (in back loops of Row 6), dc in same st as joining, dc in ea of next 2 sts, *2 dc in next st, dc in ea of next 2 sts*. Rep * to * around. (84 dc)

Round 9: Do not turn. Repeat Row 3. (84 dc)

Round 10: Working in back loop on Right Side, slst in 1st st, ch 3, skip one st, *slst in next st, ch 3, sk next st* around. Fasten Off.

OPTIONAL ROUND 10: Repeat Row 7.

BUTTONHOLE TRIM: Attach yarn at 1st row of hanging loop. Ch 1, sc in 1st st, hdc in next st, dc in third st, 7 dc into buttonhole opening, dc in next st, hdc in next st, sc in last st. Fasten off.

Optional trim on buttonhole—Attach yarn and repeat first row above, on 2nd row, ch 1, TURN, sc, ch 3 in ea st across to last st. Sc in last st. Fasten off.

Put on a fancy button, fold towel in half, insert onto loop inside “skirt.” Pretty.

Cousins, Facebook

This little guy is a football bear that I made for my grandson.  The bear is bought but the hat and sweater are made with football buttons.  My grandson really liked this guy.  He named him "fooper."
Well, I got on Facebook awhile back.  Started using Farmville.  And that was it, I thought.  And then I started meeting cousins from my mother's side of the family....and cousins, and cousins.  And I have had the thrilling experience of seeing pictures from the past that embodied what I remember from when I was little.  It is truly amazing.  I am the oldest living cousin that I know of.  Allan Stimpson was the first cousin to be born.  He died c.1972 or 73.  Then there was me.  So I am the oldest surviving cousin and the oldest girl cousin. 
Part of all this is scary, though, because it brings back some memories I don't want.  The memories are of physical and sexual abuse.  I have been fighting with anxiety attacks and that, too, shall pass, as soon as I get a handle on them.  I just have to keep looking at the positive side.  I am grown up now and at no one's beck and call. 
I am not working on any pattern designs, unusually enough.  I saw my 3 youngest grandkids this past weekend and gave them all the objects that I had finished from my own designs.  Guess I'll have to start again.  But first must get the wherewithal.  Anyone know where I can find some wherewithal?
I love my sons.  I miss them.  I pray that they are doing extremely well.  This economy scares me.  There's too many things that wrap around and focus on money.  Bleah.
Blessings on my day and yours.

Playing with new medications. Not my idea of a good time!

Hello All.   I want to welcome any followers that I have.  I tried to send messages to each of you but could not figure out how to do that so gave up and am sorry for the Mass Welcome!  Am happy to share with you.

This picture was taken on March 13, 2010 when I was going to a wedding.  It hides my fat fairly well.  But I am working on hiding the fat even better~~
Scrubbed the bathtub today.  Yikers!   Because of my two cats, I rinse it often but surely must scrub it more than I do.  Bleah.  Do I seem lazy?  I'm not, just whine-ing.  It's good to be a whiner from time to time.

New meds:  Got a new doctor and she has changed my sleeping pill from Trazadone to Ambien.  The Ambien works well and I sleep longer than 2-1/2 hours as before.  But I haven't gotten used to the Ambien yet and have sort of a little drag time in the a.m....which is usually my finest hours!!!  This, too, shall pass.

I finished make a bunch of angel dishcloths and have them all sold already!  I am hiding the money I make from the government because it is SO much....tehee.....no, I am hiding the money for our upcoming crafts sale so that I have change.  It's so little. 

The days have been so beautiful and today it is overcast.  I don't mind.  The weather is one of the things that I sort of ignore, other than to bring an umbrella or wear a warm coat.  It is good to be better able to change the things I can and know which things I cannot change, such as the weather.  Smile.

I have one more pattern that I am working on designing...Super Simple Felted Slippers.  Will let you know how that comes along.  Again,  Thank you for being one of my Followers!  Blessings to all.

Faux Baseball Cap Pattern March 2010

FAUX BASEBALL CAP designed by Linda Graimm

This pattern has only been tested by me (over and over and over…) but if you find anything that you have questions about or seems to be wrong, please don’t hesitate to contact me at emmalemmon47@msn.com.

Boy or Girl size: 20” around

MATERIALS: Worsted Wt yarn; Size “H” hook, tapestry needle
Note: I used Caron Simply Soft, one skein of Berry Blue. Doesn’t take too much yarn to make this hat unless you have help from your beloved kitty, Bearli, who loves to play with yarn and rip things out.

GAUGE: 4 stitches = 1”, approx. 3 rows = 1”

NOTES:
1. Ch 2 does NOT count as stitch throughout.
2. Hdc Decrease (Hdc Dec): Wrap yarn around hook, put through stitch indicated stitch, pull up a loop, pull up a loop in next stitch, YO and pull through all loops on hook.
3. Front Post Double Crochet (FPdc): Place hook through post of stitch on row below from front to back to front, wrap yarn around hook, pull yarn through post, complete as a regular double crochet.
4. Back Post Double Crochet (BPdc): Place hook through post of stitch on row below from back to front to back, wrap yarn around hook, pull through post, complete as a regular double crochet.
5. When making FPdc or BPdc, the next stitch sort of gets “sucked up” into the post stitch. Don’t miss that next stitch!

INSTRUCTIONS:
Round 1: Ch 4, 8 hdc in 3rd ch from hook, join in top of beg ch 2 throughout unless otherwise indicated. (8hdc)

Round 2: Ch 2, 2 hdc in each stitch around, join (16 hdc)

Round 3: Ch 2, *hdc in next stitch, 2 hdc in next stitch* Repeat around, join. (24 hdc)

Round 4: Ch 2, *hdc in each of 2 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch* Repeat around, join. (32 stitches)

Round 5: Ch 2, *hdc in each of 3 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch* Repeat around, join. (40 stitches)

Round 6: Ch 2, *hdc in each of next 4 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch* Repeat around, join. (48 stitches)

Round 7: Ch 2, L*hdc in each of next 5 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch* Repeat around, join. (56 stitches)

Round 8: Ch 2, *hdc in each of next 6 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch* Repeat around, join. (64 stitches)

Round 9: Ch 2, *hdc in each of next 7 stitches, 2 dc in next stitch* once, hdc in each of next 7 stitches, 7 DC in FRONT LOOP only of next stitch (Visor Shell started). Hdc in each of next 7 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch* twice. 1 hdc in each of next 2 hdc, work FPdc over next stitch, *BPdc over next stitch, FPdc over next stitch* five times (11 stitches in ribbing). Hdc in next 2 stitches, hdc in next 7 stitches, 2 hdc in next stitch. Join.

Round 10: Ch 2, hdc in first 14 stitches. Sk 2 hdc, 2 dc in each of 7 Visor Shell stitches (14 stitches for shell); sk 2 hdc, hdc to 1 stitch before Ribbing. BPdc over next stitch, *FPdc over FPdc, BPdc over BPdc* to end of ribbing, BPdc over next stitch (13 Ribbing Stitches). Hdc to end, join.

Round 11: [Note: from here on in, *FPdc around all FPdc and BPdc around all BPdc*] Hdc in 10 stitches. Hdc decrease over next 2 stitches, sk next 2 stitches, *1 dc in next stitch, 2 dc in next stitch*. Repeat 6 more times (21 stitches on Visor Shell). Sk next 2 stitches, hdc decrease over next 2 stitches; hdc in next 21 stitches, hdc decrease over next 2 stitches, Repeat from * to * across ribbing stitches starting and ending with BPdc] {13 stitches in ribbing}, hdc decrease over next 2 stitches, hdc in last 10 stitches, join.

Round 12: Ch 2, hdc in first 7 stitches, hdc decrease over next 2 stitches, skip 2 stitches, place 3 double crochet in first Visor Shell stitch, dc in each of next 3 stitches, *3 dc in next stitch, dc in next 3 stitches* across Visor Shell, ending with 3 dc in last stitch of Shell. Skip two stitches, hdc decrease over next 2 stitches. Hdc in next 18 stitches. FPdc around next stitch (which was a hdc decrease in row below), *BPdc in each BPdc, FPdc in each FPdc across ribbing. At end of ribbing, FPdc around next stitch (15 stitches). Hdc in last 10 stitches of round, join.

Round 13: Ch 2, hdc in first 7 stitches; skip next stitch. Single Crochet in each stitch of Visor Shell (I did these stitches tightly because it helps the visor stand up/out) (33 stitches); skip next stitch, hdc in each of next 18 stitches, *FPdc around each FPdc, and BPdc around each BPdc* across ribbing (15 stitches in ribbing). Hdc in last 10 stitches, join.

Round 14: Ch 2, hdc in each of next 6 stitches, hdc decrease over next 2 stitches, slip stitch in next 31 sts, hdc decrease over 2 stitches, hdc in 14 sts. Hdc decrease over 2 stitches, *FPdc over FPdc, BPdc over BPdc* over ribbing (15 stitches), hdc decrease over next 2 stitches, hdc in last 8 stitches, join. FO, weave in ends.

I crocheted a little flat button for the top of the hat but you could use a button or leave plain if you would like.

When (and if--I did not block because Caron SS is so very soft) you block the cap (this is unblocked), you may have to pull ribbing straight. It really isn’t as crooked as it appears in the pictures. Really.

This hat was made the same as above, except the ribbing came first on the front and then I added the Visor Shell.  I made 5 of these for my grandkids all in Hunter Green for a picture session, and I got a little bored making the same thing so I experimented here and there.

Don't hesitate to contact me if there are problems or you have any questions.  emmalemmon47@msn.com
This, too, shall pass.

Mom Whining, Depression Struck Fast, Sons

You know, sometimes I would like to have had a daughter.   I maybe would have understood her better than I "get" sons.  I accept the fact that the sons go to the daughter-in-law's family for most things, I accept the fact that sons have a life of their own to live.  What I don't accept is that some of my sons involve me in their lives and then get upset if I react.  Sigh.  #4 son asked me if he could stay here when he left his wife of almost 10 years and I told him yes if that is what he feels he has to do.  My first mistake.  His wife and he get along so well and seem to suit each other extremely well.  So.  I go on Facebook and see his wife online so I chat her up and tell her that I spoke to Kevin and that I was very sorry that things were not working out and that I felt they belonged together.  I also said that whatever they needed to do to have a good life is what they do.  I told her I loved them both.   She ended the chat abruptly.  I feel that maybe they need to go to counseling and my second mistake was talking to her at all.  Now Mistake #3 is that I am depressed about the whole thing. 
Grrrrrrr.   How come being a parent didn't come with directions...and if it did, I probably would have only skimmed it.  I need to separate myself from helping my sons in any way which is a sad comment on my relationship with them. 
I will get myself busy cutting out envelopes and making stationery, fixing a pattern for a faux kid's baseball cap, and reading. 
...and possibly I will meditate and put myself in a safe place where I can talk to my Higher Power.  That is probably best.
Sometimes I think to myself that I wish I could not talk for the rest of my life but go through life with facial expressions and that's that.   I could say is all that way and then ignore what was being said because obviously I would have no recourse.  Good thought.
Blessings on Your Day.

Felted Crocheted (or Knitted) Kitchen Set Template

Whew, that's some title!  I am making a set for my friend to take to her daughter's wedding.  Her daughter has her own home, her bridegroom has his own home and they have everything they could possibly need, even money!  So I decided to make her a one-of-a-kind kitchen set.  I hope someone can use this and that you enjoy it. 
The first two pictures show the unfelted items.
Next pictures are the items felted.

FELTED CROCHET OR KNIT KITCHEN SET TEMPLATE  Designed by Linda Graimm, emmalemmon47@yahoo.com
Had a wedding shower coming up with no money and decided I would make something. This is the results. It can also be knitted if you use the template measurements.

TO SWITCH THIS DESIGN TO KNITTING: make any knitted items in the sizes listed, before Felting, and it will come out just as well.

Set consists of: Felted Oven Mitt, 4 (four) Felted Mug Rugs/Coasters, 2 (two) Felted hotmats, and a felted Bag/Large Hotmat that holds them all.

NOTE:  You could add any kitchen item to this set that you desire, such as, potholder (make at least 14” across so that there will be plenty of fabric to protect hands, place a hanger on the square…be sure to NOT use a granny square as the spaces could be hot!! Smile), fridgie in any shape (these would be easy to do as size doesn’t really matter), small wall hanging using a quilted pattern or your favorite potholder design, etc.

MATERIALS: Patons Classic Wool in 3 colors; Crochet Hook Size USA ‘J’ {Pic shows materials as: Patons Classic Wool, 2 skeins Dark Beige Marble, Patons Classic Wool, 1 skein Woodrose Heather, and 1 skein Patons Classic Wool Merino Winter White}


GAUGE This fits a general size for each piece—
Mitt: Unfelted = 13” long, 7” wide when flattened at cuff, thumb is 4-1/2” from start to tip; Felted =  10” long, 6” wide, thumb is 3’1/2”
Heart-Shaped hotmats (2): Unfelted = 10” at widest part, 8” from indentation down to tip; Felted =  6” at widest part, 6” from indentation down to tip
Mug Ruts/Coasters (4): Unfelted = 6” square, with circle being 6” across; Felted =  4” across
Bag/Large Hotmat: Unfelted = 14” square;  Felted =  10” square

INSTRUCTIONS:

MITT: Follow any bathmitt or mitten pattern that uses Double Crochet. Using Size ‘J’ Hook and hdc, follow the instructions, adding rows and a few more stitches to the thumb because it will shrivel up in the felting process.
     For the pattern I made, I essentially started with a progression of 12 Double Crochet, 24 Double Crochet, 36 Double Crochet, switched to Half Double Crochet (adding 4 more stitches) for 16 rows (changing colors as shown in the unfelted pictures).
     For thumb, I chained 2, put hdc in the first 3 sts, chained 12, skipped 10 stitches, hdc to end. Continuing up for 10 more rows, decreasing 2 sts over thumb area on first row.
     Place hdc around thumb opening (about 24) and work straight for 7 rows, then start dec’ing.

Mug Rugs/Coasters: Make any shape that you like to 6” across unfelted.

Hotmats: Again, make any shape that you like up to 10” across unfelted.

Bag/Large Hotmat: This is just two large granny squares 14” across including edging, with an edging of hdc in Contrasting Color and then sewn together with a chain for a hanger.

You can find felting direc-tions on the internet but I use a Wonder Washer that I bought for $50.00 through the internet. I fill with very hot water, let it agitate for 15 minute intervals and check the articles often until they are the size I need. Then I rinse the articles in cool water, absorb most of the water by placing the article between two towels and “pushing” on the towel until most of the water is absorbed. I then shape on another towel, put it in my bathroom and close the door…because my little cat loves felted articles and this is to keep him from literally eating them!

Toddler's Swing Pinafore

Toddler’s ‘Swing’ Pinafore—An old-fashioned pinafore!
Designed by Linda Graimm
NOTE:  This pattern is in the process of being tested.  If you make one, please let me know how you did.  Thanks.

emmalemmon47@yahoo.com
I loved making the Butterfly Pinafore (MCCALL’S CROCHET TREASURY, Copyright 1968 etal, Simon & Schuster Publishing Company) but wanted it to be sized for an older girl and more “swingy.” This is the result.

Size: with K hook = 23[26]” waist, 16[17-1/2]” from shoulder to hem. I gave the pinafores to girls. The 23” waist fit a moderate sized 3-yr old, and the 26” waist fit a moderate 4-5 year old, in my experience.
--Larger size is in []

Gauge: with K hook; in dc patt, 11 sts and 5 rows = 4”

1. Shell St varies (gains more stitchess as you work) so the gauge on the skirt shells will vary.
2. Length is very adjustable.
3. Turn each row.
4. If you use #3 weight yarn for edging, be sure to put 3 sc in the side of each row as opposed to alternating 2 sts/3sts each row.

5. You may add or subtract as many rows as you need for your desired end. (nifty “new wave” if you make it shorter so it could become the layered look, and very special girl’s longer model if you add more rows…Flower Girl’s Pinafore? Over a beautiful slip/dress it would look wonderful, I think, possibly with #3 weight yarn?)

Materials: I used leftover worsted weight stash; ‘K’ crochet hook
{Because this was older yarn—before my more organized days—I didn’t save the yarn info, so I am guestimating here….For smaller pinafore, Caron & Glow-in-the-Dark yarn was used; larger size made from pink camo yarn with an acrylic/mohair blend #3 weight yarn}

(Stripes of color in the Pinafore pattern were added either as a result of yarn running out OR randomly, as in the large pinafore}

Starting at Yoke neck edge, chain 52[56].
Row 1: Dc in 4th chain from hook and in each of next 4[6] ch (back); 3 dc (3-dc group) in next chain, dc in each of next 11 ch (sleeve), 3 dc in next chain, dc in each of next 12[14] chain (front), 3 dc in next chain, dc in each of next 11 ch (sleeve), 3 dc in next stitch, dc in each of next 6[7] ch (back) – 58[62] dc (counting ch 3 as 1 dc).
NOTE: Turn each row.

Row 2: Ch 3, skip first dc, dc to center of first 3-dc group, place 3 dc in the center stitch; *dc in each dc across to center of next 3-dc group, 3 dc in the center stitch* to end. –8 dc inc. 66[70] dc

Row 3: Repeat Row 2. 66[70] dc

Row 4: Ch 3, sk first dc, dc in each stitch to center of ch-3 group, 3 dc in next dc, (sk one dc, 3 dc in next dc) 8 times (start of sleeve ruffle), sk next dc, 3 dc in next dc, dc in each st to center of ch-3 group, place 3 dc in center stitch, sk next dc repeat between ( ), sk next dc, dc in each stitch to top of turning ch, dc in turning ch.

Row 5: Ch 3, sk first dc, dc in each stitch to center of 3-dc group, 3 dc in center stitch, sk next dc (5-dc shell in center st of each 3-dc shell in previous row) {8 shells), sk next dc, 3 dc in center of ch-3 group, dc in each stitch to center of next 3-dc group, 3 dc in center stitch, sk next dc, repeat ( ) earlier, sk next dc, dc in each stitch to end, dc in turning ch.

Row 6: Ch 3, sk first dc, dc in each stitch to center of 3-ch group, 3 dc in next dc, ch 2[3], sk sleeve ruffle, 3 dc in center dc of next ch-3 group, dc in each stitch to center of ch-3 group, 3 dc in center stitch, ch [3], skip sleeve ruffle, place 3 dc in center of next 3-dc group, dc in each stitch to end, dc in top of ch 3 from previous row.

Row 7: Ch 3, 2 dc in same stitch as joining, 3 dc in next stitch, *skip next stitch, place 3 dc in next stitch* around, up to and including ch 3 at end.

Row 8: Ch 3, 2 dc in same stitch as joining, 3 dc in center stitch of each 3-dc group around, ending 3 dc in top of turning ch.

Row 9: Ch 3, 2 dc in same stitch as joining, 4 dc in center of each 3-dc group around, ending 3 dc in top of turning ch.

Row 10: Ch 3, 2 dc in same stitch as joining, *place 4 dc between center 2 stitches of previous 4-dc group* across, 3 dc in top of turning chain.

Row 11: Ch 3, 2 dc in same stitch as joining, 5 dc (shell) between center stitches of 4-dc group, around, ending 3 dc in top of turning ch.

Row 12: Ch 3, 2 dc in same stitch as joining, 5 dc (shell) in center stitch of each shell around, ending 3 dc in top of turning ch.

Row 13-15 [13-16]: Repeat Row 12.

Shoulder Ruffle Finishing, if desired: Crochet row of sc around the sleeve, placing 3 sc in center stitch of each shell.

Edging:  {If you use #3 weight yarn for edging, be sure to put 3 sc in the side of each row as opposed to alternating each row.}
Starting at Left Side Back, Ch 30, 1 sc in edge of Row 6, place 2 sc in side of Row 5, 3 sc in side of Row 6, alternating (2 sc, 3 sc) up to corner at neck edge of Left Side of Pinafore; ch 30, slip stitch back down ch, place one sc in corner stitch, turn work so that you are working along neck edge.

--1 sc in each dc to Right Side Corner of neck edge, place 1 sc in corner, ch 30, slip stitch back down ch, place another sc in corner.
--Work down Right Side Edge of Back, alternating (2 sc, 3 sc) in side of each row until you reach Row 6, place 1 sc in side of Row 6, ch 30, slip stitch back down ch, place 2 sc in side of Row 6. Ties made.
--alternating (2 sc, 3 sc) in sides of rows, work to lower edge, place 3 sc in corner.
--Sc across bottom of Pinafore, placing 3 sc in center stitch of each shell to next corner.
--alternating (2 sc, 3 sc) in sides of rows, work to Row 6 where you started, slip stitch in beginning ch to end.
--Fasten Off. Weave in ends.
By all means, contact me if you have any problems with this pattern: emmalemmon47@yahoo.com

Triangle Wheelchair Prayer Shawl

I saw a pattern on http://www.crochetville.org/ for a Triangle Stroller Blankie by Lubba_my_kiddos and thought it would make a great pattern for a Prayer Shawl/Lapghan for people who are wheelchair-bound.  So I jumped right in and this is the results.  There is no pattern, I just rounded off one of the corners from Lubba My Kiddos pattern and increased to "4 dc groups" instead of 3 dc groups to keep the shawl flat.  It was quick, easy and fun.  I used leftover yarn/stash.
Picture #2 shows the rounded corner.  I used dc into hdc's working to keep it centered.  Came out so well. 
Picture #3 is using the lapghan as a shawl.  I elongated the alternate two ends from the rounded ends by putting in a shell of 5 dc, ch 3, 5 dc toward the last 5 rows to make it long enough to work as a shawl. 

 

Caleb's Vest Pattern

Here I am back again with another pattern.  I have been remiss in my "duty" to myself in that I am not journaling like I used to, but I am having a great time designing patterns!  I hope you enjoy this pattern, Caleb's Vest.  My grandson loves it!!  The button is very optional.

Caleb’s Vest

Designed by Linda Graimm, emmalemmon47@msn.com


I made the lighter weight vest first and then thought it would be neat for a “wear-outside” vest but I wanted it smaller because I am not sure bigger boys today wear crocheted vests anymore. Sigh.

Size Large: Chest size, just under armholes—29”, 11-1/2” from underarm to bottom, 18-1/2” from shoulder to bottom
Size Small: [directions in parentheses] Chest size, just under armholes—27”, 9-1/2” from underarm to bottom, 15-1/2” from shoulder to bottom
Materials: For larger size, I used Impeccable Worsted in Soft Taupe, I used approx. 390 yards, size J crochet hook.  For smaller size, I used Bernat Chunky in Fern, approx. half of a skein (this is a huge skein!); Size H hook.


Gauge: For larger size, 12 hdc and 9 rows = 4”
For smaller size, 12 hdc and 9 rows = 4”


NOTE: Ch 2 at beginning of rows does NOT count as stitch; buttons or any other fastening is optional

BACK: Chain 45 [42]
Row 1: Hdc in 3rd chain from hook and in each ch across. 42 [39] sts.
Row 2: Ch 2, turn. Hdc in each st across. 42 [39] sts.
Row 3-22 [3-21]: Repeat Row 2.

Shape Armhole:
Row 23 [22]: Turn, slip stitch in first 3 sts, ch 2. Hdc across until 3 stitches remain, TURN. Do not work the remaining stitches. 39 [36] sts.
Row 24 [23]: Ch 2, hdc in each stitch across. 39 [36] sts.
Row 25-36 [24-35]: Ch 2, turn, hdc in each hdc across. Fasten Off.


Left Front: Ch 26 [22].
Row 1: Hdc in 3rd chain from hook and in each ch across. 24 [19] sts.
Row 2: Ch 2, turn. Hdc in each stitch across.
Row 3-22 [3-21]: Repeat Row 2. 24 [19] sts.

Row 23 [22]: (Armhole) Turn. Slip stitch in first 3 stitches, ch 2. Hdc in each stitch across. 21 [16] sts.
Row 24-32 [23-31]: Ch 2, turn, Hdc in each stitch across. 21 [16] sts.


Row 33 [32]: (Neck Edge) Ch 2, turn. Hdc in 14 [8]sts.
Row 34-36 [33-35]: Ch 2 turn. Hdc in each stitch across. 14 [8] sts.
Fasten Off.


Right Front: Ch 26 [22].
Row 1: Hdc in 3rd chain from hook and in each ch across. 24 [19] sts.
Row 2: Ch 2, turn. Hdc in each stitch across.
Row 3-22 [3-21]: Repeat Row 2. 24 [19] sts.


Row 23 [22]: (Armhole) Ch 2, Turn. Hdc in each stitch across, leaving last 3 stitches unworked. 21 [16] sts.
Row 24-32 [23-31]: Ch 2, turn, Hdc in each stitch across. 21 [16] sts.

Row 33 [32]: (Neck Edge)  Turn, slip stitch in first 10 [8] stitches, Hdc in 11 sts. 11 [8] sts.
Row 34-36 [33-35]: Ch 2 turn. Hdc in each stitch across. 11 [8] sts.
Fasten off.

Sew Shoulder & Side Seams.


Edging: Starting at lower edge of vest on one side seam, join yarn with slip stitch. Ch 2. You will be alternating Front Post HDC and Back Post HDC around sweater, placing them in (as much as you can) a stitch in each stitch and chain around.


Note: When you reach the side of the rows (up or down the front), place stitches so that work lies flat as possible.
Voila.

Scitten Crochet Pattern

“Scitten” Designed by Linda Graimm

QUICK, EASY AND USE-ABLE!!

Size: The “scitten” (Scarf/mitten) shown fits an average woman’s reach. For a teen, you could use a smaller hook. For a man, you could chain 10 and work with 140 sts. For a toddler, work on 110 sts. The scarf is 4” wide and the length is 34”.

NOTE: Directions for toddler’s Scitten are in parentheses.
♥Thanks Pat Engle for testing this pattern for me!
Abbreviations Used:

ch Chain ea = Each FO = Fasten off
Hdc = Half-double crochet hk = Hook Rep = Repeat
Sc = Single crochet sk = skip sts = Stitch(es)

Gauge: not important, this is a fairly relaxed and easy pattern and is very flexible.

Materials: Worsted Wt yarn—2 colors, I used 1 skein of Red Heart Super Saver Delft Blue and a small amount of variegated wool; Crochet Hook Size “K”


NOTES:
1. All hdc’s are worked in the back loop only!
2. Turn work each row.
3. Hdc dec: YO, pull up a loop in this st, pull up a loop in next st, YO and pull through all 4 loops on hook.
Scarf part:
Using MC throughout. Ch 130 (110). Starting in 3rd chain from hk, hdc in ea ch across. (128/108 sts)

Row 2: (Turn work each row) ch 2. Hdc in first 4 sts. Ch 12 for hand opening, sk 10 sts, hdc in ea st until you have 14 sts left, chain 12, sk 10 sts, hdc in last 4 sts. (128/108 sts)

Row 3: Ch 2, hdc in ea st and ch across. (130/110 sts)

Row 4-8: Ch 2, hdc in ea st across. (130/110 sts)

Row 9: Ch 2, hdc in ea st across, dec’ing 2 sts evenly over slit that you made in row 2. (128/108 sts)

Row 10: Ch 2, work even. (128/109 sts) FO.

Next Step: With CC, sc around edge of hand opening; FO and weave in ends.

Mitten part: (Make 2) With MC, ch 24 (20).

Row 1: Hdc in 3rd ch from hk and across. (22/18 hdc).
Row 2: (turn every row) Ch 2, hdc in ea st across. (22/18 sts)
Row 3-11: Ch 2, rep row 2. (22/18 sts) FO.

FINISHING: Bring Mitten Part up behind one end of scarf and hand opening.

Using CC, and holding both thicknesses together, sc around entire scarf, sc’ing mitten parts so that they line up behind scarf and over hand openings(put 3 sc in ea corner) (you will be making a “pocket” for the hand to fit into the slit and rest inside.

FO. Weave in ends.

==Using a strand of MC, with running st or back st, sew remaining opening closed.
If you have a problem, please email me at emmalemmon47@yahoo.com

My own Pattern for KNIT Neckscarf

THICK AND QUICK NECKSCARF
This scarf is warm and oh, so, comfortable. The shaping helps it to not “envelop” your throat. And soft!!


MATERIALS: 1 Skein of Lion Brand Thick & Quick in color of your choice
Size 13 (9mm) Lion Brand Knitting Needles

GAUGE: I felt that the gauge was not needed.
ABBREVIATIONS USED: K = Knit; P = Purl;

NOTES:
1. You will have 24 stitches each and every row throughout.
2. It took me about 3 hours to finish this scarf. I use the Continental Method of knitting.
3. In weaving the end on Row 76, I left a long piece to weave in and wrapped the yarn around the buttonhole edge to reinforce the buttonhole.
4. Neck shaping and buttonhole point begin at Row 41. This consists of increasing in first stitch and decreasing in last stitch every other row.
5. When increasing, I picked up a stitch between first and second stitch, but you could also use K and P in same stitch. This makes a different pattern, however, it does make the hole bigger.

INSTRUCTIONS: Cast on 24 stitches.
Row 1: *P2, K2* across row, end K2.
Row 2-40: Repeat Row 1 until you have 40 rows.

Row 41: Increase in first st, work to last 2 sts, decrease in last stitch.
Row 42: Keeping Rib pattern, work row even.

Row 43: Repeat Row 41.
Row 44: Repeat Row 42.

Row 45 – 72: Repeat Rows 41 and 42 (14 times).
Row 73: P2, Bind off 2 (buttonhole), work across row in pattern as established.

Row 74: Work pattern across to bound off stitches, Cast On 2 sts, work last stitch.
Row 75: Work even across row in pattern.

Row 76: Bind off in pattern. Weave in ends.
**I ended up with about 26” of yarn left from the skein.