Favorite Little Princess

Summer of Pokémon - Shaymin

2020-10-12T10:00:00.001-04:00

Who's that Pokémon? I had never heard of this one, but isn't it cute? I'm really happy with the way it turned out. I actually think, for once, that mine turned out better than the pattern, or at least as good.

©Favorite Little Princess

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Number 14. Shaymin. #crochet #amigurumi #pokemon

A post shared by Deedra Sukrungruang (@favoritelittleprincess) on Jul 25, 2020 at 1:21pm PDT

Shamin fits perfectly in these little hands, too.

©Favorite Little Princess

So, number 14 is a hit and just fuels wanting more. Good thing there are over 300 to choose from.

Summer of Pokémon - Whooper

2020-10-08T10:22:00.001-04:00

A super quick and easy amigurumi, Whooper was selected based on cuteness (of course) but also because that was yarn I had on hand.

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Whooper. This one I finished in a day. He’s little, but super cute. #pokemon #crochet #amigurumi

A post shared by Deedra Sukrungruang (@favoritelittleprincess) on Jul 23, 2020 at 3:57pm PDT

If you are a beginner crocheter, this (free!) pattern is perfect. It only uses a small amount of yarn and stuffing. My only issue is the "ears". I think using pipe cleaners would help maintain their shape. Other than that, it's just a small cute little plushie!

We are almost done with Pokémon, but even as I type this, I just finished another one. I have a feeling that summer may stretch into fall, winter, and maybe spring. Probably time to start looking into more storage.

©Favorite Little Princess

Summer of Pokémon - Snorlax

2020-09-29T09:36:00.002-04:00

It wouldn't really be a Snorlax unless it was really big, right? I mean HUUUUUGE! It's a whopping 18 inches tall.

©Favorite Little Princess

This free pattern is from Miahandcrafter and it's a super easy to follow. I'm not thrilled with the face part, however. I think if I were to do it again, I would go up a hook for that part. It just didn't come out as big as I would like to cover the stuffed areas of the head.

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Finally fished this monstrous Snorlax at 10:30 last night. The boy loves it. #pokemon #crochet #amigurumi

A post shared by Deedra Sukrungruang (@favoritelittleprincess) on Jul 22, 2020 at 5:42am PDT

Both dad and boy love to use this monster as a pillow. It's perfectly plumped for resting on while watching Pokémon on TV. I had to get more stuffing to fill this one out, but it was worth it.

We're down to our last two for the summer - but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't making more. Keep watching!

Summer of Pokémon - Oshawott

2020-09-27T10:00:00.002-04:00

At first, I didn't think I would like this one. It just seemed to plain and simple. However, after finishing it, this has become my favorite of all the Pokémon I have made this summer.

@FavoriteLittlePrincess

Don't let this kid's face fool you, he loves Oshawott. He was just hot and tired from running around. We decided to have an impromptu photo shoot at the Schnormeier Gardens. It's only open for one month a year, so we just had to go!

@FavoriteLittlePrincess

I'm not sure why it looks so much bigger in his arms here, but Oshawott is the perfect cuddle size.

@FavoriteLittlePrincess

I don't think mine looks exactly like the picture from the pattern, but it's got it's own little personality. I just love it!

WolfDreamer Pattern

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#Pokémon number 11. Oshawott is my favorite so far. It’s super cute. Needed it’s own photo shoot. #crochet #kingdomofra

A post shared by Deedra Sukrungruang (@favoritelittleprincess) on Jun 28, 2020 at 10:45am PDT

We're down to only a few more Pokémon. Good thing, too, because Fall just started. It's time to start making hats and blankets!

Summer of Pokémon - Scorbunny

2020-09-25T15:52:00.002-04:00

This time it was the man requesting a Pokémon and not the boy. I had to ask several times who the heck he was talking about because I had never heard of this one before. Scorbunny is from the new Pokémon Journeys show on Netflix.

Image from pokemon.com

I found this pattern on Ravelry from designer Jessie Edwards. Of course, the face gave me the worst trouble. At least I'm consistent.

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Scorbunny! #pokemon number 10. #kingdomofra #crochet

A post shared by Deedra Sukrungruang (@favoritelittleprincess) on Jun 22, 2020 at 2:21pm PDT

Oh well, he's loved and not a total mess. I'll take that as a win. Plus, I've discovered that I really like working with Caron Simply Soft for amigurumis. It doesn't stretch as much so it holds it's shape better.

Next time - my favorite of the bunch this summer. Any guesses? You'll just have to wait and see! Or, if you follow me on Instagram you already know!

Summer of Pokémon - Psyduck

2020-09-21T10:00:00.001-04:00

Poor Psyduck...he always has a headache. I can relate. Still, I think it's one of the cutest Pokémon.

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And Psyduck makes NINE. #kingdomofra #pokemon #crochet

A post shared by Deedra Sukrungruang (@favoritelittleprincess) on Jun 18, 2020 at 3:20pm PDT

Betcha thought I was kidding when I said I got most my patterns from Wolf Dreamer, huh? Nope. This is yet another one. Bodhi likes to click through the patterns while I'm making one so that he can pick out the next one. It's fine. I've gotten really used to reading these from Wolf Dreamer and I like know what to expect.

Even better when there are few pieces to sew on. This one worked up super fast, which pleased the boy immensly. The problem with that is that he thinks all of them should be fast. Good thing he's cute.

Next time I will introduce you to a Pokémon from the newest series, Pokémon Journeys.

Summer of Pokémon - Eevee

2020-09-17T10:00:00.007-04:00

Well, this one is a little cutie. I'm happy with most of it. The eyes turned out great, but I'm still iffy on the mouth. Oh well. My little Pokémon lover thinks it's perfect so that's all that matters.

©Favorite Little Princess

This is another Wolf Dreamer pattern that you can find here. I'm not sure my colors are the same, but I usually just use something close that I have on hand. I also think the little collar on mine ended up a lot bigger. Well, maybe just a little bigger. This was all Red Heart worsted weight yarn and I think these amigurumi's turn out better when I use Caron Simply Soft.

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Another Pokémon for the spoiled boy. Say hello to Eevee. #kingdomofra #crochet #pokemon

A post shared by Deedra Sukrungruang (@favoritelittleprincess) on Jun 8, 2020 at 4:04pm PDT

Our temperatures in Ohio have been dropping, so I guess I had better get a move on and finish all my summer posts. I've been trying to switch gears into fall items, but I just had another Pokémon request. And I thought it was over. Not going to complain that I have a happy repeat customer! Too bad he's not paying. Maybe I can at least get him to pick up his toys...ha ha ha.

Until our next Pokémon....gotta catch 'em all!

Summer of Pokémon - Oddish

2020-09-09T10:00:00.008-04:00

Another little (and fast) pattern from Wolf Dreamer. Sometimes I pick which Pokémon to do next by what yarn I have on hand. Thus, little Oddish was created. This is a great project to do while waiting, such as doctor's office or tennis lessons with the kid. Very little material to schlep around and doesn't take up much space even when finished. Plus, there are few limbs to sew on.

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Now joining the Pokémon crew, Oddish! #kingdomofra #pokemon #crochet

A post shared by Deedra Sukrungruang (@favoritelittleprincess) on Jun 4, 2020 at 6:04pm PDT

Such a little cutie with his friend, Squirtle. I think they are going to be best friends!

©Favorite Little Princess

Who's the next Pokémon? Subscribe to my blog to be the first to know!

Summer of Pokémon - Growlithe

2020-09-07T09:00:00.001-04:00

This one was such a challenge! I love how it turned out, however. I tend to sew on arms, legs, and heads a little crooked, so I really utilized pins to this time to get it straight. It's better, but not perfect. The pattern is available as a free downloan on Ravelry from Edward Yong's Ravelry Store.

The stripes gave me fits. The rest of the pattern is pretty straight forward, but I ripped out and re-did the stripes many times. In the end, I just tried to make it look similar and moved on. I do love how it is able to stand on it's own. It's stuffed pretty solidly, so if you try this one, make sure you have enough stuffing on hand.

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This one was pretty intense. It’s time for a Pokémon break. #pokemon #kingdomofra #crochet

A post shared by Deedra Sukrungruang (@favoritelittleprincess) on Jun 3, 2020 at 1:18pm PDT

©Favorite Little Princess

So, if you are looking for a challenge, I highly suggest trying this one. Until next time, go catch another Pokémon!

Summer of Pokémon - Squirtle & Mew

2020-09-04T09:00:00.004-04:00

I love free patterns. No really. Not just I'm ~~cheap~~ frugal, but because it gives me the opportunity to check out how the artist presents their pattern without investing in it. I hate being disappointed, especially if I have paid for it. Give me a few patterns to try you out and if you are good, I'll definitely buy from you. I've been seeing more and more free patterns out there with the option to buy a PDF version, which I think is spectacular. There are also some out there with donation links for their free patterns. Please, if you make something from a free pattern, consider donating or purchasing from them. Support these amazing artists!

That being said, when I found Squirtle, I found my favorite Pokémon artist. WolfDreamer has a ton of free patterns that are spectacularly written as well as a shop "Off the Hook". I haven't made every pattern....yet...but I'm getting there!

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Squirtle done. He wants Growlithe next which may give me a bit of a challenge. #kingdomofra #crochet #pokemon

A post shared by Deedra Sukrungruang (@favoritelittleprincess) on May 29, 2020 at 11:24am PDT

Mew is just as sweet as can be and worked up quickly. It's small enough that even the sewing the pieces together went quickly. I highly recommend this one if you need a quick gift.

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Mew is done. I need a Pokémon break. #kingdomofra #crochet #pokemon

A post shared by Deedra Sukrungruang (@favoritelittleprincess) on May 26, 2020 at 5:40pm PDT

Just the right size for holding! There is a pipe cleaner in the tail for posing, too.

Thanks for stopping by. Next time, I will share my most challenging Pokémon of the summer. Who's that Pokémon?

Summer of Pokémon - Charmander

2020-09-02T09:00:00.003-04:00

Did you know there is a Pokémon channel? Neither did we until we stumbled upon it. Needless to say, our TV has been on a constant rotation of episodes. Bo seems to really like the classic characters most. Next up, Charmander! This is another pattern that I found on Ravelry as a free download. There are actually tons of different Charmander patterns and they are all so different.

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And once again, halfway through this Charmander he asked for Squirtle. It’s never going to end. Gotta catch ‘em all?!? #crochet #pokemon #kingdomofra

A post shared by Deedra Sukrungruang (@favoritelittleprincess) on May 24, 2020 at 10:04am PDT

Not gonna lie, the fingers are a little tricky, but otherwise this was a fairly straightforward pattern. I did like not having to sew the head on, but I wish it had a bit more definition. Check out the super cute tail, though! It's just yarn brushed with a dog's slicker brush.

©Favorite Little Princess

The eyes are embroidered, which was my first time doing that. I hope to do more and get a little better at it. I've been seeing lots of crocheted dolls lately and they have the most esquisite lifelike embroidered eyes. Something to aspire to, I suppose.

Thanks for stopping by on our Pokémon journey. Next time, Squirtle!

Summer of Pokémon - Jigglypuff

2020-08-26T10:31:00.002-04:00

When I crocheted Bulbasaur I did not envision that I would be doing more. However, my little boy was already searching for the next pokémon for me to make. It's hard for me to say no to that cute little face, but also when I get a happy customer it drives me to do more. Not everyone is appreciative of homemade gifts, but he is so enamoured with them that I just want to make him more. What I didn't anticipate was how big his next selection would be.

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And now we have Jigglypuff joining Ash “Ketchup’s” crew. #kingdomofra #crochet #pokemon

A post shared by Deedra Sukrungruang (@favoritelittleprincess) on May 17, 2020 at 7:19am PDT

It's huge! Thank goodness I had a ton of pink yarn left over from another project. The pattern said it would be 6 inches tall, but this is clearly a lot bigger. The pattern is available as a free download on Ravelry. It was pretty simple and clearly written. I love the crocheted eyes, mostly because I like learning different ways to create a finished look.

It's the perfect snuggly toy for sleeping with, tried and tested! There are many free and paid patterns for Jigglypuff out there with a variety of sizes. With few peices to sew and minimum colors required, this is a quick and easy amigurumi project if you are looking for something to try. Gotta catch them all!

Summer of Pokémon - Bulbasaur

2020-08-17T10:41:00.002-04:00

It hardly seemed like summer this year. No trips to Thailand. No swimming pools. Even the weather was like, "eh, I don't feel like me this year." I'm grateful for the mild temps, however, because we spent most of the summer outside. Not being able to go or do things made our yard seem very appealing. Being cooped up inside spurred my husband into planting every flower he could get his hands on. I'm not kidding.

I should have been focusing on building my Etsy shop. Instead, I put in on vacation and focused on keeping my 4-year-old occupied. He suddenly became very interested in Pokémon and thus it became the summer of Pokémon So far, 14 of them have joined our household.

It started with Bulbasaur.

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The boy demanded a bulbasaur. #crochet #pokemon #kingdomofra

A post shared by Deedra Sukrungruang (@favoritelittleprincess) on May 9, 2020 at 10:32am PDT

I found a pattern for this little guy on Ravelry. I would probably do things a little different next time, but it was a fairly easy pattern to follow and gave me practice with amigurumi. It's the faces that get me. I just need to practice more and the Bo-man has been good about finding more things for me to make for him to do just that. He's a spoiled little boy, but I also really enjoy making them. Small projects are great for me because I can finish in a day or two and don't get bored of it in that short time. I need to complete things. Just me?

I'll be sharing more of the Pokémon I made this summer over the next few weeks, including where to find the patterns. I'm also available for commissions if there is a Pokémon you want for your own. Shoot me a message! Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss the rest of the Pokémon series. You can also follow me on Facebook (shop open there), Twitter, and Instagram.

Pumpkin Spice

2020-08-06T09:15:00.003-04:00

Can you believe it's August already? I enjoyed my coffee on the deck this morning with a chilly 57°F. Don't get too jealous. Ohio is going to warm back up into the high 80's next week. This was just a little preview of what is to come with Fall. Of course, social media is picking up with Pumpkin Spice memes and Fall decorating. Our 4-year-old is already trying to figure out what he wants to be for Halloween. My hubby is busy prepping for his classes to begin, which means more student meetings via zoom. I don't think I'm ready. Maybe I can bring my pumpkins out and try to get in the groove.

I have a plethora of crocheted and fabric pumpkins and they just make me happy. I am looking forward to going to the pumpkin patch and seeing the fall foliage. Did you see my pumpkins in the shop? It's my one of my favorite patterns from Yarn + Chai, Little Rustic Pumpkin. It's so easy to dress these up with silk leaves, stems from tree branches, or even different colors to match your decor.

Buy Here

Time to get the yarn out and make some more. These make great gifts and I think my neighbors could use something cheerful. With all the craziness these days, we could all use something cheerful. Maybe I'll add something new to the decor this year. What's your favorite fall decor?

Revival

2020-07-24T10:31:00.000-04:00

It's been quite awhile since I have posted anything here. I've kept up with Facebook and Instagram, but I stepped away from the blog. Yes, life added more complications. Work took over. Sold my house, divorced, re-married, bought a new house, had a baby, sold house and moved to another state, bought another house. Those are just the highlights. Those are not the reasons that I stepped away.

A woman blasted me accusing me of stealing her relative's pattern and posting it as my own. She did this on every social media platform. I had clearly stated in the pattern that I took parts from other patterns that I liked over the years. An arm here, the edging from here, the collar from there, etc. Is it possible that part of it was from her relative's pattern? Maybe. I don't recall. I do give credit when I can. I took this really hard. She didn't even demand I take it down. She just wanted to blast me, publically. So, I stepped away. I stopped crocheting. I stopped creating.

Since we moved to Ohio a year ago, I've started crocheting again. It helps to have winter here, unlike Florida, because I have a reason to make hats again. Florida was too hot for most the things I made. Plus, I'm no longer working

45-60 hours a week and have some time to make things. It's been really enjoyable.

So, what's next? I've opened an Etsy shop, which is currently on vacation while I re-think things. I do, however, have items up for sale on my Facebook page. I'm looking to add my clay covered hooks and fur poms (for hats) as well as some patterns I've been working on. I also post on Instram almost daily, depending on what I'm making.

Instagram

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It’s the summer of Pokémon. And we still have one more month left!!! #crochet #amigurumi #pokemon

A post shared by Deedra Wollert (@favoritelittleprincess) on Jul 23, 2020 at 4:10pm PDT

I'm going to post more. At least once a week. Maybe just what I've been working on. Maybe a pattern. We will see how it goes.

Things are strange these days with COVID-19, so taking it one day at a time. Remember to be kind to yourself and others. I don't think we are anywhere near the end of this, so let's make the best of it.

Rainbow Loom Hook covers

2014-01-27T12:48:00.000-05:00

Did your kiddos get a Rainbow Loom for Christmas? If so, you should put them to work. It's only fair since they leave those little bands all over the place, right?

There are tons of YouTube videos to show you (or them) how. We used this one and it worked well for us. Little tip: When you insert your hook, cross the bands on the top and bottom over one more time for a more secure fit.

So many color options! I loved trying to coordinate with the hook color.

Best of all, the hook fits better in my hand and doesn't get sore and tired as quickly.

Even the little hooks fit perfectly.

See how cute?!?

All the bright colors make me so happy.

Quick and easy. I'm ready to make more!

Slow Cook Pork Loin

2014-01-22T10:48:00.000-05:00

I promised on the Facebook page that I would post this recipe if it turned out good. Well, guess what? It was pretty darn good and so simple to make. I originally found this on Pinterest, but when I went back for it, the page was gone. Boo. That's ok. I found one similar and just pieced it together from what I remembered on the original one. Even better, pork loin happened to be on sale at the time.

Slow Cook Apple Pork Loin

Ingredients

1-2 pound pork loin
One baking apple - I liked Fuji or McIntosh
One medium onion - pick your favorite. I used white.
1/2 cup apple juice (optional - I find pork loin tends to dry out easily)
honey
cinnamon

Directions

Make even vertical slices down pork loin - about 3/4 through
Insert apple slices into loin
Pour juice into crock pot and place loin on top
Drizzle loin with honey and sprinkle with cinnamon (to taste, you don't need a lot)
Toss in any extra apples and onion slices
Cook for 3-4 hours on low until meat has internal temp of 170 F.

We loved the flavor and served it up with some stuffing. We'll count this as our Paleo-ish meal since we added that as the side. Next time I think I'll add a dash of nutmeg, too, or cloves. Just for a little more fall flavoring.

Enjoy!

Learning to Knit

2014-01-16T12:58:00.000-05:00

It's been awhile since I have posted. Not because I didn't have anything to say or that I haven't been making anything, but mostly because I broke my camera. What's a blog without pictures? Actually, both my cameras. It will probably take me a year to decide on a new one. So I decided to just bite the bullet and use my iPad until then. I apologize in advance for the less than adequate images.

Actually, I was quite busy during the holidays. I made so many beautiful things and didn't take any photos. Boo to that. Now that the spring term in underway and I have most of my course set up for my students, I have a little time to make some more stuff. Only I can't just do that. No....I have to do something totally new. Sort of. I have tried to knit before, but I always became frustrated and gave it up. I'm doing a little better this time around. I still prefer crocheting. It's easier for me and quicker. However, I do like the look of knitting and definitely like that it uses less yarn. I have tried several different tutorials from YouTube, to purchased books, to websites. This time around I found Wee Folk Art. I don't know how to describe it, but this time around was much better. Maybe it's the small projects that go with the lessons.

After practicing how to cast on, bind off, and the knit stitch in the birdie project, I was ready to start the headband project. This was great practice and low frustration since you are only working with 7 stitches.

It turned out great and K2 immediately declared it as hers. I love quick and easy projects such as this.

Next, I moved onto learn the purl stitch and created this dishcloth in project four. I think the headband helped me work on my issues with tension because this ended up pretty good. There are a few areas I would like to see better, but with a little blocking you can't notice it.

Then entered Pinterest.

I was thinking I was ready for something more. I knew I needed to move forward and learn how to increase and decrease stitches, so I found a simple dishcloth that would do both. I was a little nervous at first, but I think I got the hang of it. I actually used the tutorials on the Lion Brand Yarn site. I'll be headed back there again to learn more. Just check out how great this turned out! I am very happy with it.

I guess the lesson here is, if at first you don't succeed, find another tutorial and try again.

Happy crafting!

Paleo Stuffed Chicken

2013-11-06T10:48:00.000-05:00

Got another Paleo recipe for you! This is one looks much more difficult than it is. In fact, I think producing these meals has made me feel like I can actually cook. Maybe. We like topping ours with our favorite spice blend.

Ingredients:

Chicken breasts - slice open butterfly style
1 slice of deli “honey baked” ham
3 asparagus stalks, hold each end and bend until it breaks, use only the top half

1 slice of brie cheese

Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Your favorite spice blend

Directions:

Stuff chicken with ham, asparagus and brie. Hold together with a toothpick.

Sprinkle olive oil, kosher salt and black cracked pepper over the chicken or use your favorite spice blend. We use Minorcan Datil Pepper Spice and it's perfect!

Bake on 400 degrees for 15 minutes. If your breasts are really thick, you may need more time.

YUMMY!

This is a great way to not serve chicken the same old way.

Countdown to Christmas

2013-11-01T10:00:00.000-04:00

Oh my goodness. It's November.

I'm stalling. I admit it. The days keep ticking away and all I can do is look at patterns. I can't seem to come up with a real plan.

What do I give my mom? What would my husband's aunt like?

It all just gives me a headache. I hate just giving gift cards. It seems so impersonal. My kids, however, love the idea of shopping for what they want. It's a losing battle. I tend to make most of my gifts because I like to put thought and time into it. I also like the idea of buying from other crafters. Maybe I can find some fairs to go to before Christmas?

Where do you go for inspiration? Magazines? TV? Blogs? Pinterest? Etsy? It doesn't help that I don't like shopping. Maybe it's time for a trip to my local library. I found some really great books for crochet patterns when I was hunting for baby gift inspiration. There's nothing worse than buying a book and then not liking what's inside.

What's worse is that we live in another state from all of our family. I don't get to see any of them on a daily basis to see what would be of interest or need to them. And who the heck needs more crap to dust?

I'm literally still working on gifts from last year. Ok, the gift was an ongoing craft project, but still. It's a huge Barbie house that K2 and I have been putting together. We're doing all the decorating and making all the furnishings (mostly). I hope to post it here eventually.

Back to this year.

Last year when I had this dilemma, I created a board on Pinterest to start gathering ideas for gifts throughout the year. Not just for Christmas, but all gift giving holidays. Click on the link under the image to see what I have so far.

Gifts to Give Board

Not much, right? Do you Pinterest? Yes? How would you like to help add to my board? As group we could create a huge "database" of gift ideas! Sound exciting?

Here are the rules:

Post your Pinterest ID in the comments below (or you can message me privately). I'll send you an invitation to pin to the board.
As you run across something you think would make a great give - for any occasion - pin it! It can be something you buy in a store, on a website, or a craft to make yourself.
Include what age group/holiday you think it would be appropriate for in the comments section of the pin.
Is there something YOU want? Pin it! If you want it, chances are someone I know (maybe you?) would want it, too.
Have fun and share!

Ready? Set? Let's Pin!

Berry and Spinach Salad

2013-10-30T10:00:00.000-04:00

I love this salad. It's so delicious! The only bad news is now I have used up my entire stock of blueberries from our picking outing last April. Guess I need to get more this year. If you can't find honey roasted almonds, the coconut or cinnamon almonds are tasty, too!

Ingredients

Fresh spinach leaves

Fresh strawberries, sliced
Fresh blueberries
Goat cheese or honey goat cheese

Honey roasted almonds

Grilled chicken (optional)

Directions

Gently mix berries and cheese in a bowl. The strawberries, blueberries and goat cheese will break down to make the best dressing. Pour over spinach and top with nuts and chicken.

Put this together in no time. It's easy to make for 1 or 10. Super simple, super quick, and super yummy!

Paleo- Eggplant Bruchetta

2013-10-23T10:11:00.001-04:00

I love Eggplant Parmesan, but it's not exactly on the Paleo diet. This is the next best thing and it's super simple to make. It's got great texture and flavor. I have to admit, the hubby doesn't care for it, but K1 and I love it. I guess I can only push vegetables so far. More for us!

Eggplant Bruschetta:

1. Heat Oven to 350
2. Slice the eggplant into even slices (don't slice too thin or they will burn - about 1/4 inch) and lay slices out on a sheet pan sprayed with olive oil
3. Lightly shake salt and pepper over eggplant slices and place in the oven for 15 minutes
4. Flip eggplant over and add salt and pepper to the slices and place back in oven for 10 minutes

Bruschetta topping:

• 3 or 4 ripe plum tomatoes
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• 3 fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Place eggplant on a plate and top with bruschetta and fresh mozzarella. Enjoy!

Crochet Baby Hat and Mary Jane Shoes

2013-10-18T10:01:00.000-04:00

Charlie is the best little model. She's always awake, quiet, and never complains. I think we will keep her.

The soft colors are perfect for wearing with anything and would be great for photo shoot, too. There are plenty of color combinations that you can switch it up with as well. Makes a great gift for a new baby!

Size:

3-6 months

Supplies:
Worsted Weight Yarn - I used Caron So Soft. Perfect for babies
Size H Crochet Hook
Size G Crochet Hook
Size F Crochet Hook
Tapestry Needle

Hat
Using H Hook, Ch 3. Join into a ring.
Round 1: Ch 4 (counts as dc and ch 1). *Dc, ch 1; repeat 9 times. Join to 3rd ch of beg ch 4.

Round 2: Sl st in first ch 1 sp. Ch 4 (counts as dc and ch 1), dc in same sp, ch 1, *(dc, ch 1) twice in next ch 1 sp; repeat from * around. Join to 3rd ch of beg ch 4.

Round 3: Sl st in first ch 1 sp, ch 4 (counts as dc and ch 1), dc in same sp, ch 1, dc in next ch-1 sp, ch 1, *(dc, ch 1) twice in next ch 1 sp, dc in next ch 1 sp, ch 1; repeat from * around. Join round to 3rd ch of beg ch-4.

Round 4-6: Sl st in first ch 1 sp, ch 4 (counts as 1 dc and ch 1), *dc in next ch 1 sp, ch 1; repeat from * around. Join with a sl st in 3rd ch of beg ch 4.

Change to size G hook.

Round 7- 8: Sl st in first ch 1 sp, ch 4 (counts as 1 dc and ch 1), *dc in next ch 1 sp, ch 1; repeat from * around. Join with a sl st in 3rd ch of beg ch 4.

Round 9: Sl st in first ch 1 sp, sc in same sp, *sc in next st, sc in next ch 1 sp; repeat from * around. Join.

Edging: *5 Dc into first ch space, sl st into next ch space* repeat around ending with sl st. Fasten off.

Mary Jane Shoes
Use F hook

Round 1: Ch 11.Work 3 sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc in next 4 ch, hdc in next ch, dcin next 3 ch, 7 dc in last ch. Working across opposite side ,dc in next 3 ch, hdc in next ch, sc in next 4 ch .

Round 2: Beginning in the top of the first sc of previous round, 2 sc in next 3 st sc in next 9 sts, 2 sc in next 5 sts, sc in next 9 sts.

Round 3: {Sc in next st, 2 sc in next st} 3 times, sc in next 9 sts, {sc in nextst, 2 sc in next st} 5 times, sc in next 9 sts.

Round 4: Sc all except last st. hdc in last st.

Round 5: Dc 8. Hdc 1. Sc 33

Round 6: Sc 2tog 1. Sc 6. Sc 2tog. Sc 9. Sc2tog 7 times. Sc 9.

Round 7: Sc 17. Dc2tog 4 times. Sc 9.

Round 8:

Right shoe:

Sl st 12. Ch 12. Sc into 5th ch from hook. Sc 6.. sl st into next st on the shoe. Sl 13. Tie off.

Left shoe:

Sl st 24 Ch 12. Sc into 5th ch from hook. Sc 6. sl st into next st on the shoe. Sl st 3.

Embellish with any flower of your choice. There are tons of free patterns out there. This is what I used:

Flower:

Using H hook, chain 4 and join into a ring.

Round 1: Chain 2 (counts as 1 dc), dc 11 times into ring, join with a sl st to 2nd chain of initial chain 3 (12 dc).

Round 2: Chain 3, sk stitch, then make 1 dc into next stitch.

*Chain 3, miss a stitch, then dc in next stitch*

Repeat between **, four more times until you get back to the beginning. Sl st into first chain.

You should have 6 chain-3 loops.

Round 3: Work into each ch 3 loop *sc, hdc, 2 dc, hdc, sc* You should have 6 petals.

Round 4: Sl st into unworked st from round 2. sc, hdc, dc, hdc, sc into same stitch. Work *dc, htr, tr, htr, dc* into remaining 5 unworked stitches. Fasten off leaving a long tail for sewing onto hat.

For the little flower on the shoes I just ch 4 and joined to form a ring. Work 6 sc into ring and join with slst. Ch 2, dc twice, slst into same sp as join. *slst, 3 dc, slst* into each remaining sc around for a total of 6 petals. Join with slst to first sc. Leave a long tail for sewing.

What's for Dinner Wednesday - Chick Pea Salad

2013-10-16T10:04:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago I decided to get serious about my eating habits. I was feeling sluggish and just blah. It has been suggested over and over that I try a Paleo diet. I really didn't know what that was, but I finally decided to check it out. I found a website that interested me that had a meal plan with simple recipes. Robin's Sweet Confessions Paleo Challenge seemed simple enough, so I figured I could try anything for 5 days. I posted photos of the meals as I made them on my personal Facebook page and generated a lot of conversation. Well, 5 days turned into weeks and I'm still sticking to it.

Do I cheat? Heck yea! However, I have noticed a huge difference in the way I feel when I do and don't eat paleo. Better yet, I feel like I'm enjoying my kitchen again. The preparation is simple and the results are fantastic.

Have I lost weight? Sure, some. I've been slacking in the exercise area since I hurt my wrist in kickboxing, but I'm getting back into running so I'm sure that will pick up again. I think what I have noticed most is that I no longer hit that wall at 2 pm. I have more energy and my digestive system is much happier - no more puffy belly.

Even though you can find most of the recipes I will be sharing here on Robin's site, I have added some modifications from my own experience of making them. First up, Chick Pea Salad. I know this is "What's for Dinner Wednesday", but I typically have this for lunch. It was the first Paleo recipe I tried and it's still a favorite. K1 and I make it at the beginning of the week and we split it between the two of us for 2-3 days each week (it makes a big batch).

Chick Pea Salad

1 can garbanzo beans (chick peas)
1 and 1/2 cucumbers (chopped)
1 and 1/2 tomatoes (chopped and rinsed) - I use 2-3 Roma tomotoes because I like less seeds
1/2 cup oregano (fresh, chopped) - or dried if that's what you have
1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1. Rinse Garbazno Beans well and drain, set aside.

2. Mix EVOO and Balsamic Vinegar together and toss with garbanzo beans. (add oregano here if you use dried)

3. Mix in cucumbers and tomatoes.

4. Toss Salad.

5. Top with goat cheese and oregano.

This travels well and the flavors get better over the couple days to get through the batch. We are so in love with goat cheese now. Never thought I would say that. Hope you like it, too!

Not MIA

2013-09-10T09:35:00.001-04:00

I know you must have thought I disappeared. Well, I did sort of. K1 and I went to Spain for a week and had quite an adventure.

It was not the trip we were hoping for, but we made the best of it. Next time we will go without a tour group. I don't speak Spanish at all, so I was anxious about being on my own, but we were given so much "free time" that we might as well have been on our own. Lesson learned, but I'm glad to have had the experience.

When we got home, it was a mad dash to get ready for school to start. Supplies to buy, teachers to meet, and K2 got braces. She was such a trooper and has really been good about keeping them clean. I'm so proud of her!

As if getting the kids ready for school wasn't enough, I had my own course to get ready for. It's a class I've taught many times, but we just got a new learning system at the university so I had to adjust to that. Fall is always crazy with new hires and it seems like something always happens to make it difficult.

With all that stress, I just didn't feel like posting about my misery. So I did what I normally do to relieve the tension. I crochet! Remember that baby afghan I shared on my favorite pins? Well, I finally made it. I like the design and the pattern was easy to follow, but using the recommended cotton yarn made it seem awfully heavy to me. So, I made it into a lovey. What's a lovey? Basically, it's a blanket with a toy attached to it. I've made plenty of amigurumi toys, so I just made it up off the top of my head and attached it to the center of the blanket.

I've also been on the hunt for gift ideas for baby boys. There is always plenty of cute things to make for girls, but boys are a different story. I found this pattern in a book I checked out from the library.

It's been a goal of mine to use up all my scrap yarn, so K2 had a naked Barbie that needed attention. She got a cute new dress. I found the pattern on Ravelry, but I had a difficult time with the instructions. Perhaps I'll make my own pattern and share with you soon.

Speaking of K2, I had bought some yarn to make a slouchy hat I promised back in December of last year. Oops...time to get that one knocked out, too.

As if all this crocheting wasn't enough, K1 is back on the cosplay bandwagon. I'm sure the Heroes of Cosplay show doesn't help. Don't ask, I have no idea. I just help make the darn stuff.

See? I really have been busy! I'll try not to stay away for so long next time. However, I almost always post things over on the Facebook page. Anytime I run across a great pattern, recipe, giveaway,or free stuff I post it there. Don't forget to check it out!