The beginning of something...I don't know yet.

I got the urge to crochet today, and decided to make something for the Fourth of July. How about a nice afghan to cover up with and cuddle while we're watching fireworks? Sounds great, but I'd better get busy!

Here's all I have so far:

The square pattern is inspired by one of my favorite crochet pattern books,

200 Crochet Blocks for Blankets, Throws, and Afghans: Crochet Squares to Mix and Match by Jan Eaton.

This afghan will be made from Caron Simply Soft yarn, in red, white and blue patriotic colors, using a G hook, and I'm not worried about gauge this time. Not at all.

This book is a must-have for any crochet library.

Like, Totally, You Know?!

Here is a sneak preview of my "Totally 80's" striped handbag:

And its coordinating, polka dot lining:

The top edge is a reverse sc. I will post more photos after I've (gulp) sewed in the lining and zipper, and completed the strap. Don't hold your breath, as it may take me awhile. I'm NOT the best at using my sewing machine. If you can picture lots of cussing and ripping out seams, then you get the picture!

Sweet Pea Shawl Complete!

I whipped this baby up in just a few hours. Here's my kitchen chair, modeling it:

Close-up detail. I decided to use a baby weight yarn and smaller size hook instead of what the pattern called for. Used Bernat Baby in white and a size F hook. I also did some calculations and added 2 more shells to the beginning row.
Here's one of me, making it, as photographed by my 7 yo son. Note the flower in my hair, as he and my 8 yo also "did my hair" (undid?) moments before, staging a pink zinnia they thought I needed to wear!

Wanna peek at my Fat Bottom?

My Fat Bottom Bag, that is!

Wish I had a good photo to show you, as you can see, the ones I took don't do it justice. This handbag is the most functional I have ever made or even owned. It holds SOOOOOOOO much in it, and I'm not kidding!

I will begin making my second Fat Bottom Bag (here on out, referred to as FBB), and will do a better job at taking photos after it's done. I need to make a decision on what yarn to use (ahem, that I already own) and what fabric I will use to line it. This is a bag you definitely want to line if you plan on using, and I've heard you need no more than 1/2 yard.

Note: Made first bag with Lily Sugar 'n Cream in Buttercream Ombre, and took a bit over 2 balls to make.

Live and learn, though, because after carrying around my wallet, coin purse, makeup, hairbrush, digital camera, cell phone, bottle of H2O and 2 (count 'em) Nintendo DS Lites, on our recent trip up to Michigan, the thing is about as stretched out as my belly! Photos of belly not an option.

I've joined in another CAL at crochetville for FBB #2. Join me if you don't already have one of these babies in every color of the rainbow! Come on, you know you want to.

Which WIP should I concentrate on?

The gals from work and I are having a Stitch 'n' Bitch on Wednesday, so I need to figure out which of my many WIPs I will bring. It will probably end up being my Sweet Sweater, if I can work past the sleeves. I'm having a bit of problems it draping in the back. I think it has something to do with the number of stitches in the front and back being even. I believe I misread the original instructions, so I have a bit of tearing out to do. Once I get it going, I expect to whip this thing out and finish it this week.

I also suggested we create some hats for the Caps to the Capital project. I said I would bring some knit and crochet patterns to share. I personally would like to make 3. Maybe we can put Indiana on the map!

Baby Snakes hiding in my yarn stash!

Whipped up some baby snakes for my boys - in hopes of using up some of my undesirable acrylic yarns. I even made the kitty a little catnip mouse!