The Snail Garden

Revamping the Living-room

2012-01-23T09:12:00.000Z

Another weekend and another visit to Ikea to purchase a new unit. We also bought a new chair to try with our table and will be going back to Ikea again to buy another 5 chairs to complete the set.

After the chairs, I will be buying new curtains, but unfortunately the sofas will have to wait. I really don't like these sofas! :( I'm loving the colour of the new units, I just hope that they work with our existing pine table and dresser. I will post better photos once we have the new chairs.

"Old Fogies" ... !!!

2012-01-18T09:02:00.003Z

On Sunday our Darling Daughter said, "I have told all my friends that I can't believe that the Old Fogies have gone from being 10 years behind technology to the forefront of technology." Thank you Darling, may I remind you that we are only in our 40s and I will remember your comment for when you are the same age!! :) The reason for her comment is the new addition to our living-room. We have gone from this:-

to this:-

and while she my have a point regarding the technology jump, I am not an old fogy!!

The new TV means a long overdue revamp of the living-room. The new grey-brown cabinet is from Ikea and we will be adding some more of this range to the room over the coming weeks and I have finally found some curtains I like, to replace the existing ones. We are keeping some of our pine furniture and mixing it with the new grey-brown cabinets. I'm not sure how this will work as it is going out of my comfort zone to not have everything matching, but I would like to keep our existing table and glass unit and looking on Blogland it seems to be quite modern to have mismatched furniture. See, I'm trying not to be an old fogy! :)

This Morning ...

2012-01-13T09:43:00.000Z

... Jack Frost is nipping at our toes ...

... so I think I will stay indoors with this ...

... although I should probably be using this!!!

A Gentle Reminder ...

2012-01-13T08:52:00.002Z

... that we are all connected.

Four

2012-01-10T23:21:00.001Z

Today my blog is four years old and to say "Thank You" to all of you that pop by, I would like to arrange a giveaway. The photo is a hint as to the contents of the giveaway, but I'm saying no more! :)

If you are interested in taking part, please leave a comment on this post before the end of January.

I hope that you will join me in celebrating four years.

Best wishes, Pj x

***

This giveaway is now closed and I will be announcing the winner tomorrow.
Best wishes, Pj x

***

January Skies

2012-01-04T08:53:00.000Z

After yesterday's storms had passed, the sky cleared and we did a spot a star-gazing. Unfortunately I couldn't get a better photo with my camera - on the left is the moon and the bright "star" to its right is the planet Jupiter. Jupiter is highly visible to the naked eye at the moment and if you look through a pair of binoculars you can also see Jupiter's orbiting moons. You will need to rest the binos on something to get a clear view. This website has some more information about the current position of Jupiter.

At 7pm today the Earth is the closest to the Sun as it will get this year. At 8am this morning the sun was putting on this spectacular show, as seen through our landing window.

Too beautiful not to share.

Pj x

Normal Service Resummed!

2012-01-03T16:45:00.001Z

In other words, my Husband and I went back to work today! I had quite a breezy walk to work as we had gale force winds here in the South of England. I lay in bed this morning listening to the wind and wishing that I didn't have to get up! Luckily the rain didn't start until after I arrived at work. We had torrential rain and as you can see The Brook burst its banks.

It's difficult to tell which is The Brook and which is the path!

The paths are littered with broken twigs and the trees were swaying in the strong winds.

In Blogland I have decided to continue with Annie The Felt Fairy's A Monthly Make for 2012.

I have also signed up for these two swaps:-

Laalaa's Travelling Craft Box 2012

and Gem's Blog Love Swap.

I really enjoy taking part in swaps, so I probably will join some other ones too.

Back Home After Christmas ...

2012-01-01T10:12:00.001Z

... and a few days spent relaxing, cooking for my family and enjoying the Christmas decorations,

before welcoming in the new year.

May 2012 bring you everything that you wish for.

Pj x

Christmas in Norwich

2012-01-01T02:05:00.001Z

We spent this Christmas with my parents in Norfolk. On Christmas Eve we went into Norwich to see the Christmas lights.

The Arcade

St Peter Mancroft

City Hall and Guildhall

Cathedral Close

Fye Bridge

Posing for a photo on Christmas Morning.

My son decided to tickle me!

My children

My Mum

My Dad

Dad decorated the tree.

Sunrise over the village.

We had a lovely relaxing time with my family and also managed to visit my best friend and her family just after Christmas.

Hope you all had a Happy Christmas, Pj x

December Photo Scavenger Hunt

2011-12-30T10:25:00.001Z

Kathy of Postcards from the PP organised a monthly Photo Scavenger Hunt throughout 2011 and December's hunt was a Christmas Alphabet. I decided that my alphabet would feature Christmas in my kitchen. I have cheated slightly and used the odd photo from last year as I didn't have time to photograph everything that passed through my kitchen and the Christmas Day Lunch photo was taken at my parents'.

A for Angel Fairycake

B for Brandy Butter

C for Chocolate Coins

D for Delia's Classic Christmas Cake

E for Edible Decorations

F for Fudge shaped like a piece of Christmas Cake

G for Gingerbread

H for Hot Chocolate with Cream and Marshmallows

I for Iced Christmas Pudding with Rum and Raisin Sauce

J for Jelly formed into a Snowflake

K for Kumquat Puddings

L for Lebkuchen

M for Mincepies

N for Nut Roast

O for Orange Pastry

P for Puddings

Q for Queen of Puddings

R for Rocky Road

S for Sugar Mice

T for Turkey and Trimmings

U for Upside-down Pudding

V for Vanilla Cupcakes

W for White Christmas Slice

X for Xmas Cake

Y for Yule Log

Z for Zabaglione Trifle Slice

Thank you to Kathy for arranging this, it has been fun.

Day 24 Advent Calendar

2011-12-29T09:39:00.000Z

For the final day I crocheted this pattern which was featured on Day 23 of DROPS Christmas Calendar 2011.

Tip:

Replace first dc at beg of each round with 1 ch. Finish each round with 1ss in ch from beg of round. If changing colour make the ss in the colour you are using for the next row.

Bauble:

Crochet 4 ch on a 4mm hook, using Dk and form a ring with 1 sl st in first ch.

ROUND 1: Work 6dc in ch-ring.

ROUND 2: 2dc in each dc = 12 dc.

ROUND 3: * 1dc in first dc, 2dc in next dc *, repeat from *-* the rest of the round = 18 dc.

ROUND 4: * 1dc in each of the 2 first dc, 2dc in next dc *, repeat from *-* the rest of the round = 24 dc.

ROUND 5-10: Work 1dc in each dc = 24 dc.

ROUND 11: * 1dc in each of the 2 first dc, crochet 2tog (see explanation above) *, repeat from *-* the rest of the round = 18 dc.

ROUND 12: Work 1dc in each dc = 18 dc.

ROUND 13: * 1dc in first dc, then crochet 2tog *, repeat from *-* the rest of the round = 12 dc.

ROUND 14: Work 1dc in each dc = 12 dc.

Fill the ball with some cotton wool or left-over yarn.

ROUND 15: Crochet all 2tog = 6 dc.

ROUND 16: Crochet all 2tog = 3 dc.

Cut yarn and thread through remaining edge sts, pull the thread to tighten and fasten.

Work 8 ch for loop and fasten with 1 sl st at the top of the ball.

Our Christmas Tree :)

I have really enjoyed this challenge and love the finished tree. Thank you DROPS for inspiring me.

Day 23 Advent Calendar

2011-12-29T09:32:00.000Z

A Christmas Rose for Day 23. This pattern is featured on DROPS Christmas Workshop 2011.

Make a magic circle using a 4mm hook and Dk. I used Patons Smoothie Dk.

ROUND 1: 1dc magic circle, * 2ch, 1dc in ch-ring *, repeat from *-* a total of 4 times and finish with 2 ch and 1ss in first dc from beg of round = 5 ch-loops.

ROUND 2: 1ch, continue to crochet as follows in each ch-loop: 1dc, 3tr and 1dc, finish with 1ss in first dc from beg of round. Fold petals forward and work from the back.

ROUND 3: 1ch, * work 1dc in dc from 1st round (i.e. crochet on the back of the flower leaves around sts from previous round, tighten the thread), 4ch *, repeat from *-* a total of 5 times and finish with 1ss in first dc from beg of round.

ROUND 4: 1ch, continue to crochet as follows in each ch-loop: 1dc, 5tr and 1dc, finish with 1ss in first dc from beg of round.

ROUND 5: 1ch, * work 1dc in dc from 3rd round (i.e. crochet on the back of the 2 flower leaves around sts from previous round, tighten the thread), 5ch *, repeat from *-* a total of 5 times and finish with 1ss in first dc from beg of round.

ROUND 6: 1ch, continue to crochet as follows in each ch-loop: 1dc, 2tr, 1ch, 3dtr, 1ch, 2tr and 1dc, finish with 1ss in first dc from beg of round. Cut and fasten the thread.

I'm thinking of making another rose and rosette from Day 22 in white.

Day 22 Advent Claendar

2011-12-29T09:24:00.001Z

For Day 22 I crocheted this Rosette from DROPS Christmas Workshop 2011, in Patons Smoothie Dk.

Make a magic circle using a 4mm hook and Dk.
ROUND 1: 6dc in magic circle.
ROUND 2: 3ch, * 1dc in next dc, 3ch *, repeat from *-* a total of 5 times, finish with 1ss in first ch on the round = 6 ch-loops.
ROUND 3: Crochet in each ch-loop as follows: 1dc, 1ch, 3tr, 1ch, 1dc.
ROUND 4: Fold the leaves towards you and crochet around the 2nd round as follows: 5ch, 1dc in first dc on round 2, * 4ch, 1dc in next dc on round 2 *, repeat from *-* a total of 5 times, finish with 4ch and 1ss in first ch from beg of round = 6 ch-loops.
ROUND 5: Crochet in each ch-loop as follows: 1dc, 1ch, 5tr, 1ch, 1dc.
ROUND 6: Fold the leaves towards you and crochet around 4th round as follows: 6ch, 1dc in first dc on round 4, * 5ch, 1dc in next dc on round 4 *, repeat from *-*, finish with 5ch and 1ss in first ch from beg of round = 6 ch-loops.
ROUND 7: Crochet in each ch-loop as follows: 1dc, 1ch, 7tr, 1ch, 1 dc.
ROUND 8: Fold the leaves towards you and crochet around 6th round as follows: 7ch, 1dc in first dc on round 6, * 6ch, 1dc in next dc on round 6 *, repeat from *-* a total of 5 times, finish with 6ch and 1ss in first ch from beg of round = 6 ch-loops.
ROUND 9: Crochet in each ch-loop as follows: 1dc, 1ch, 9tr, 1ch and 1dc, cut and fasten the thread.

Day 21 Advent Calendar

2011-12-29T09:12:00.001Z

For Day 21 I crocheted the Icicles pattern from DROPS Christmas Workshop 2011

Using a 4mm hook and Dk, crochet 44ch loosely, 1ss in the 20th ch from hook (this forms the loop). Continue with 3dc in each of the first 2ch, 3dtr in each of the next 3ch, 3tr in each of the next 6ch and 3dtr in each of the next 12ch, work5 dtr in the last ch. Cut the thread and sew a bead to the point. I dangled a crystal bead from 3 rocailles and used another rocaille under the crystal bead. Twist the piece to make an icicle.

Day 20 Advent Calendar

2011-12-29T09:02:00.001Z

We spent Christmas at my Parents' so these remaining items were crocheted there. For Day 20 I made this Santa pattern from the DROPS Christmas Workshop 2011.

I slightly changed the pattern below by making the nose from a 5dtr cluster and then continued as suggested.

NOSE:
Crochet 4 ch with 2 threads red and crochet hook size 3 mm and form a ring with 1 sl st in first ch = first ring. Now crochet 3 ch and form a new ring with 1 sl st in sl st from first ring = second ring. Turn piece. Crochet 4 ch, 5 dtr in second ring, but wait with the last pull-through = 6 sts on hook. Now pull thread through all sts on hook = 1 half of nose. Crochet 1 ch, 5 dtr in first ring, but wait with the last pull-through = 6 sts on hook. Now pull thread through all sts on hook = 1 whole nose. Cut and fasten thread.
HEAD:
Now crochet with 2 threads off-white. Crochet 1 dc at the top of ch between the 2 nose halves, 4 ch, 1 dc at the other side between the 2 nose halves. Crochet 4 ch and 1 sl st in the first dc. There are now 2 off-white ch-loops between the 2 nose halves.
ROUND 1: Crochet 1 ch, then 5 dc round each of the 2 ch-loops and finish with 1 sl st in first dc on round = 10 dc round nose.
ROUND 2: Crochet 1 ch, then 2 dc in each dc and finish with 1 sl st in first dc on round = 20 dc round nose.
ROUND 3: Crochet 1 ch, then * 1 dc in first dc, 2 dc in next dc *, repeat from *-* and finish with 1 sl st in first dc on round = 30 dc.
ROUND 4: Crochet 8 ch, 1 tr in first dc, * 4 ch, 1 tr in next dc, 4 ch, 1 tr in the same dc *, repeat from *-* a total of 14 times. Cut and fasten thread.
HAT:
Continue back and forth with 2 threads red. Beg in the next dc after the thread was cut.
ROW 1: Crochet 1 dc in each of the next 7 dc, 2 ch, 1 dc in each of the next 7 dc = 14 dc. Turn piece.
ROW 2: 1 ch, dec 1 dc - see DECREASING TIP - 1 dc in each of the next 5 dc, 2 ch, 1 dc in each of the next 5 dc, dec 1 dc = 12 dc. Turn piece.
ROW 3: 1 ch, 1 dc in each of the first 6 dc, 2 ch, 1 dc in each of the next 6 dc = 12 dc. Turn piece.
ROW 4: 1 ch, dec 1 dc, 1 dc in each of the next 4 dc, 2 ch, 1 dc in each of the next 4 dc, dec 1 dc = 10 dc. Turn piece.
ROW 5: 1 ch, 1 dc in each of the first 5 dc, 2 ch, 1 dc in each of the next 5 dc = 10 dc. Turn piece.
ROW 6: 1 ch, dec 1 dc, 1 dc in each of the next 3 dc, 24 ch, 1 dc in each of the next 3 dc, dec 1 dc = 8 dc.

At this point I neatened the edges with a row of dcs.
Cut and fasten thread.

Day 19 Advent Calendar

2011-12-21T16:19:00.002Z

For Day 19 I have made an Angel from the DROPS Christmas Workshop.

She is make in White Dk with a gold halo, using a 4mm hook. Ss at end of each round.

Body:

Using white - crochet 20 ch and form a ring with 1 ss in first ch.

1st round: 20 dc in ring

2nd-8th round: 1 dc in each dc.

round 9: * 1 dc in first two dc, then crochet the next 2 dc tog *, repeat *-* = 15 dc.

10th round: * 1 dc in first dc, then crochet the next 2 dc tog *, repeat *-* = 10 dc.

11th round: Crochet 2 dc tog all the way round = 5 dc.

Head:

12th round: 2 dc in each dc = 10 dc.

13 round: inc 8 dc evenly distributed = 18 dc.

14-17th round: 1 dc in each dc.

Fill the head.

18th round: * 1 dc in first dc, then crochet the next 2 dc tog *, repeat *-* = 12 dc.

19th round: Crochet 2 dc tog all the way round = 6 dc.

Cut a long tail and use to sew up hole and make a chain loop.

Lace Hem:

Work around the bottom of the body: ss in first st, *skip 1 st and make a 4tr fan in 2nd st, skip a st, ss into next st*, repeat *to*, ss.

Wings:

Work 6 ch and form a ring with 1 ss in first ch.

1st round: 1 dc in ring, 5 ch, 1 dc in ring, 9 ch, 1 dc in ring, 9 ch, 1 dc in ring, 5 ch.

2nd round: In first and last ch-loops (= 5 ch) work: 1 dc, 1 ch, 5 tr, 1 ch and 1 dc.

In the 2 other ch-loops (= 9 ch) work: 1 dc, 1 ch, 12 tr, 1 ch and 1 dc.

Finish with 1 ss in first dc on round.

3rd round: Ss in 1ch, 1 dc in first tr, * 3 ch, 1 dc in next tr *, repeat *-* a total of 4 times, 1 dc in the next 2 dc, 1 dc in next tr, repeat *-* 11 times, 1 dc in 2 next dc, 1 dc in next tr, repeat *-* 11 times, 1 dc in the next 2 dc, 1 dc in next tr, repeat *-* a total of 4 times, 1 dc in last dc and 1 ss in first dc from beg of row. Cut the thread. Block wings using starch and allow to dry before sewing onto angel's back.

Halo:

Using gold - crochet dc into a magic circle to required size, ss. Use tail to stitch into place at back of angel's head with a single stitch.

Day 18 Advent Calendar

2011-12-21T16:03:00.002Z

Day 18 on the DROPS Christmas Calendar is a very sweet Snowman Pattern. I have chosen to make him without the hat and with a red scarf to fit in with my red and white colour scheme.

He is made using White and Red Dk, with Embroidery Thread for his eyes and nose. Ss at end of each round.

Body:- 4mm hook

ROUND 1: 8 dc into a magic circle.

ROUND 2: 2 dc in every dc = 16 dc.

ROUND 3: * 1 dc in first dc, 2 dc in next dc *, repeat from *-* = 24 dc.

ROUND 4: * 1 dc in each of the first 2 dc, 2 dc in next dc *, repeat from *-* = 32 dc.

ROUND 5: * 1 dc in each of the first 3 dc, 2 dc in next dc *, repeat from *-* = 40 dc.

Work 7 rounds with 1 dc in every dc. The original pattern worked 10 rounds, but I wanted a smaller snowman.

ROUND 16: * 3 dc, crochet 2 dc tog – see explanation above *, repeat from *-* = 32 dc.

ROUND 17: * 2 dc, crochet 2 dc tog – see explanation above *, repeat from *-* = 24 dc.

ROUND 18: * 1 dc, crochet 2 dc tog *, repeat from *-* = 16 dc.

ROUND 19: * Crochet all dc tog 2 by 2 = 8 dc, do not cut the thread. Stuff body and then continue with head.

Head:-

ROUND 20: Work as 2nd round = 16 dc.

ROUND 21: Work as 3rd round = 24 dc.

Work 4 rounds with 1 dc in every dc. The original pattern worked 7 rounds, but I wanted a smaller snowman.

ROUND 29: Work as 18th round = 16 dc.

ROUND 30: Work as 19th round = 8 dc. Stuff and cut a long tail. Sew up hole and use tail to make a chain loop.

Nose:-1.25mm hook

ROUND 1: 8 dc in magic circle using Anchor 403.

ROUND 2-3: 1 dc in every dc.

ROUND 4: Crochet the first 2 dc tog, 1 dc in each of the next 2 dc = 3 dc.

ROUND 5: Crochet the first 2 dc tog, 1 dc in next dc = 2 dc. Lightly stuff nose and sew into position.

Eyes x 2:- 1.25mm hook

Using Anchor 324 - 3ch, 3tr cluster into 1st chain, 2ch, ss into 1st chain. Stuff ends inside eye and sew on face.

Scarf:-4mm knitting needles

Cast on 3 stitches and using Moss Stitch make scarf to required length.

Each Row: K1, P1, K1.

Cast off and tie around snowman's neck.

Day 17 Advent Calendar

2011-12-20T14:42:00.003Z

For Day 17 I have crocheted the Toadstool Pattern from DROPS Christmas Workshop 2011. I think this is one of my favourite patterns so far.

I made this pattern using a 3mm hook, instead of 4mm, by accident! I picked up the wrong hook - just goes to show that you shouldn't start something just before bedtime!! :) I think that it has turned out the perfect size, so maybe it was meant to be.

ROUND 1: Work 6 dc in magic circle, leaving a tail long enough to make the hanging loop. Ss at the end of each round.
ROUND 2: 2 dc in each dc = 12 dc.
ROUND 3: * 1 dc in first dc, 2 dc in next dc *, repeat from *-* the rest of the round = 18 dc.
ROUND 4: * 1 dc in each of the 2 first dc, 2 dc in next dc *, repeat from *-* the rest of the round = 24 dc.
ROUND 5: * 1 dc in each of the 3 first dc, 2 dc in next dc *, repeat from *-* the rest of the round = 30 dc.
ROUND 6: * 1 dc in each of the 4 first dc, 2 dc in next dc *, repeat from *-* the rest of the round = 36 dc.
ROUND 7: Work 1 dc in each dc = 36 dc.
ROUND 8: Work 1 dc in each dc = 36 dc, Change to white for the ss.At this stage make a chain loop and sew straight stitches in white for the dots on the mushroom. Next stuff the top.
ROUND 9: Continue in white, 1 dc in back loop of each dc = 36 dc.
ROUND 10: * 1 dc in each of the 4 first dc, crochet 2 dc tog*, repeat from *-* the rest of the round = 30 dc.
ROUND 11: * 1 dc in each of the 3 first dc, then crochet 2 dc tog *, repeat from *-* the rest of the round = 24 dc.
ROUND 12: * 1 dc in each of the 2 first dc, then crochet 2 dc tog *, repeat from *-* the rest of the round = 18 dc.
ROUND 13: * 1 dc in first dc, then crochet 2 dc tog *, repeat from *-* the rest of the round = 12 dc.
ROUND 14: Work 1 dc in back loop of each dc = 12 dc.
ROUND 15-17: Work 1 dc in each dc = 12 dc.
ROUND 18: * 1 dc in first dc, 2 dc in next dc *, repeat from *-* the rest of the round = 18 dc.
ROUND 19: Work 1 dc in each dc = 18 dc.
ROUND 20: Work 1 dc in each dc = 18 dc.

Finish filling mushroom.

ROUND 21: * 1 dc in first dc, then crochet 2 dc tog *, repeat from *-* the rest of the round = 12 dc.
ROUND 22: Crochet all dc tog 2 by 2 = 6 dc.

ROUND 23: Crochet all dc tog 2 by 2 = 3 dc.

Cut yarn and thread through remaining stitches - pull to tighten. Fasten off.

Day 16 Advent Calendar

2011-12-19T09:52:00.009Z

For Day 16 I have chosen the Elegant Heart Pattern that appears on each door of the DROPS Christmas Calendar 2011. I have used Patons Smoothie Dk in Red and slightly adapted the pattern to produce a flatter heart.

Using 4mm hook -

Row 1 -ch17, turn.

Row 2 - 1tr into 8th ch from hook, 2ch, skip 2ch, 1tr, 2ch, skip 2ch, 1tr, 2ch, skip 2ch, 1tr into 1st ch from row 1.

Row 3 - Turn, 5ch, 1tr into 2nd tr from previous row, *2ch, skip 2 ch, 1tr in next tr*. Repeat *to* to end of row.

Rows 4 & 5 - Repeat row 3.

Heart Arches, 1st side - 3dc in 1st diamond, 3dc in 2nd diamond, ch5, 3dc in 3rd diamond, 3dc in 4th diamond. Ch1.

2nd side - 3dc in 1st , 3dc in 2nd, 5ch, 3dc in 3rd, 3dc in 4th.

Heart top- 15ttr into 5ch loop. ss into ch, 15ttr into next 5ch loop. ss.

Edging - 3dc into each diamond, 1ch at point, 3dc into each diamond. 1dc into each ttr keeping tension loose. Ss into centre and ch25 for loop, ss back into centre, continue 1dc in each ttr. Ss into 1st dc. Fasten off ends and starch.

Day 15 Advent Calendar

2011-12-19T09:18:00.010Z

Day 15's Pattern is for a Heart, on DROPS Christmas Calendar 2011. I crocheted this using a 4mm hook and Patons Dk Smoothie in Red. I followed the pattern with the exceptions of making a 15ch for the loop and I crocheted an extra row of dc around the 2 lower sides of the heart and a single row of dc over the top of the heart.

Row 1 - Make a 4ch ring and 1ch, 3dc, 1ch into it. Turn.

Row 2 - 1dc in each of the next 2dc, 3dc in next st, 1dc in each of the next 2dc, 1ch, turn.

Row 3 - 1dc in each of the next 3dc, 3dc in next st, 1dc in each of the next 3dc, 1ch, turn.

Row 4 - 1dc in each of the next 4dc, 3dc in next st, 1dc in each of the next 4dc, 1ch, turn.

Row 5 - 1dc in each of the next 2dc, 4ch, 1tr in 4th ch from hook, skip 1dc, 1dc in each of the next 2dc, 2ch, skip 1dc, 1dc in each of the next 2dc, 4ch, 1tr in 4th ch from hook, skip 1dc, 1dc in each of the next 2dc, turn.

Row 6 - 9ch, 1dc in middle loop, 2ch, 1dc in same middle loop, 9ch, ss in last dc on previous row, 1ch, turn.

Row 7 - 1dc in 1st ch loop, *4ch, 1tr in 4th ch from hook, 1dc in same ch loop*, repeat *to* x3, 1dc in middle loop, ch 15 (for hanging loop), 1dc in middle loop, *4ch, 1tr in 4th ch from hook, 1dc in same ch loop*, repeat *to* x3.

The pattern then says to continue with dc all around the edge of the heart, which I did, but I then continued to crochet an extra row of dc around the lower 2 sides before ss and fasten off the thread.

Day 14 Advent Calendar

2011-12-17T21:17:00.020Z

Day 14 on DROPS Advent Calendar was another pattern that wasn't "tree-friendly", so I have substituted this Fir Cone Pattern from DROPS Christmas Workshop 2011.

Again I used a 4mm hook and Patons Dk Smoothie in Red and Patons Dk Pearl in White.

CONE:
PATTERN:
See diagram M.1. Diagram shows the pattern from RS.
DECREASING TIP:
Dec 1 dc as follows: Crochet 1 dc, but wait with last pull through (= 2 loops on hook), work next dc, but when doing the last pull through pull thread through all loops on hook = 1 dc dec.

CHRISTMAS CONE:
Crochet 5 ch with crochet hook size 2.5 mm with 1 thread red Cotton Viscose and 2 threads Glitter. Form a ring with 1 sl st in first ch.
ROUND 1: Crochet 10 dc in ring and finish with 1 sl st in first dc.
ROUND 2: 1 ch, * 1 dc in first dc, 2 dc in next dc *, repeat from *-* = 15 dc.
ROUND 3: 1 ch over ch, 1 dc in each dc
ROUND 4: 1 ch over ch, * 1 dc in first dc, 1 dc in next dc, 2 dc in next dc *, repeat from *-* = 20 dc.
ROUND 5: 1 ch over ch, 1 dc in each dc
ROUND 6: 1 ch over ch, * 1 dc in each of the first 3 dc, 2 dc in next dc *, repeat from *-* = 25 dc.
ROUND 7: 1 ch over ch, * 1 dc in each of the first 4 dc, 2 dc in next dc *, repeat from *-* = 30 dc.
ROUND 8: 1 ch over ch, 1 dc in next dc, * skip 2 dc, 7 tr in next dc, skip 2 dc, 1 dc in next dc * repeat from *-* a total of 4 times and finish with skip 2 dc, 7 tr in next dc, skip 2 dc and 1 sl st in dc from beg of round.
ROUND 9-15: crochet M.1A 1 time, then repeat M.1.B 2 times and finish with 1 sl st in dc from beg of round as shown in diagram.
NOTE! From round 14 inclusive continue with 1 thread white Cotton Viscose.
ROUND 16: 1 ch, 1 dc in sl st from previous round, 1 dc in ch, 1 dc in first tr, * 1 dc in ch, 1 dc in dc, 1 dc in ch, 1 dc in tr, 1 dc in ch, 1 dc in tr *, repeat from *-* and finish with 1 dc in ch, 1 dc in dc, 1 dc in ch and 1 sl st in dc from beg of round = 30 dc.
ROUND 17: 1 ch over ch, * 1 dc in first dc, crochet the next 2 dc tog – SEE DECREASING TIP! - *, repeat from *-* = 20 dc.
ROUND 18: 1 ch over ch, crochet 1 dc in each dc.
FILL CONE NOW!
ROUND 19: 1 ch over ch, 1 dc in each dc
ROUND 20: 1 ch in ch, crochet 2 dc tog across the round = 10 dc.
ROUND 21: 1 ch over ch, crochet 2 dc tog across the round = 5 dc.
ROUND 22: crochet 1 sl st in ch, crochet approx 35 ch, crochet 1 sl st in 3rd dc. Cut and fasten thread.

Explanation to pattern diagram

	=	ch
	=	dc
	=	dc in ch-loop from previous round and in 3rd/4th tr from 2 rounds below - See Fig 1
	=	sl st
	=	tr
	=	Fan: Crochet 7/9 tr in the same ch
	=	this round is explained in pattern, beg on row 2.

Day 13 Advent Calendar

2011-12-17T21:06:00.009Z

The pattern for Day 13 is featured on the DROPS Christmas Workshop 2011.

I used the pattern as it is, but used a single thread of Dk as before and crocheted the centre in white only and I did 3dc in the final row at the point and made 15ch for the loop

HEART:
Work 2 ch with crochet hook size 4 mm and 1 thread of each colour. Crochet 3 dc in 2nd ch from hook. Turn piece. Continue as follows:
ROW 1 (= WS): 1 ch, 1 dc in first dc, 3 dc in next dc, 1 dc in the last dc = 5 dc. Turn piece.
ROW 2 (= RS): 1 ch, 1 dc in each of the first 2 dc, 3 dc in next dc, 1 dc in each of the last 2 dc = 7 dc. Turn piece.
ROW 3: 1 ch, 1 dc in each of first 3 dc, 3 dc in next dc, 1 dc in each of last 3 dc = 9 dc. Turn piece.
ROW 4: 1 ch, 1 dc in each of the first 4 dc, 3 dc in next dc, 1 dc in each of the last 4 dc = 11 dc. Turn piece.
ROW 5: 1 ch, 1 dc in each of the first 5 dc, 3 dc in next dc, 1 dc in each of the last 5 dc = 13 dc. Turn piece.
ROW 6: 1 ch, 1 dc in each of the first 6 dc, 3 dc in next dc, 1 dc in each of the last 6 dc = 15 dc. Turn piece.
ROW 7: 1 ch, 1 dc in each of the first 7 dc, 3 dc in next dc, 1 dc in each of the last 7 dc = 17 dc. Turn piece.
ROW 8: 1 ch, 1 dc in each of the first 8 dc, 3 dc in next dc, 1 dc in each of the last 8 dc = 19 dc.
Now continue in the round with 2 threads red.
ROUND 9: 1 ch, 1 dc in the last dc on row 8, 1 ch, * 1 dtr in the outermost st on row 4, 1 ch,* repeat from *-* a total of 5 times, 1 dc in ch from the very beg of the heart, 1 ch, * 1 dtr in the outermost on the other side of row 4, 1 ch *, repeat from *-* a total of 5 times, 1 dc in the first dc from row 8.
ROUND 10: 1 ch, 1 dc in the same st in which you crochet 1 dc at the end of previous round, then 1 dc in each of the next 8 dc from row 8, 3 dc in next dc, then 1 dc in each of the next 9 dc and finish with 1 sl st in dc from beg of round.
ROUND 11: Crochet 1 ch, 1 dc in ch from previous round, * 1 dc in dtr, 2 dc in ch *, repeat from *-* a total of 4 times, 1 dc in dtr, 1 dc in ch, 1 sl st in dc, 26 ch, 1 sl st in the same dc, 1 dc in ch, * 1 dc in dtr, 2 dc in ch *, repeat from *-* a total of 4 times, 1 dc in dtr, 1 dc in ch and finish with 1 sl st in dc from beg of round 10.
Cut and fasten thread.

Day 12 Advent Calendar

2011-12-17T16:59:00.009Z

Guess who is hiding under my tree! :) Mousie from the DROPS Christmas Workshop.

I followed the pattern and used 4mm needles with Sublime extra fine merino wool dk in shade 006 and an oddment of pink for his nose. He has two black beads for eyes and a length of wire holds his tail up. I didn't use wire in his ears.

Using a single thread, cast on 16 sts. Work in stocking stitch.

Row 1 - Knit.

Row 2 - Purl.

Row 3 - Knit and increase by 8 stitches evenly across the row. I did this by M1 (picking up loop between stitches and knitting into the back).

Rows 4 to 22 (18 rows) - Stocking stitch.

Row 23 - Knit 2tog across row.

Row 24 - Purl.

Row 25 - Change to pink and knit.

Pull thread through remaining stitches and fasten off.

Sew up seam using mattress stitch and stuff body.

Make 2 ears by casting on 5 stitches and knitting 4 rows.

Row 5 - K2tog, K1, K2tog.

Knit 2 rows.

Row 8 - K3tog.

Use thread to sew ears in place. I then threaded the ends through the mouse and brought them out at either side of his nose to form whiskers and attached two beads for eyes. I short length of wire threaded through his tail makes is stand up.

Day 11 Advent Calendar

2011-12-17T16:38:00.009Z

I have chosen this pattern from DROPS Christmas Workshop for Day 11

Mostly I have followed the pattern as given on the DROPS site with only a few minor changes. I used Patons Dk Smoothie in Red and Patons Dk Pearl in White with a Silver blending thread. I used a bell that had fallen off one of my cats' collars!

Round 1 - Into a magic circle crochet 6dc, ss.

Round 2 - *1dc in first st, 2dc in next st*, repeat *to*, ss.

Round 3 - *2dc in each st*, repeat *to*, ss.

Round 4 - *1dc in first st, 2dc in next st*, repeat *to*, ss.

Round 4 - *1dc in first st, 1dc in next st, 2dc in next st*, repeat *to*, ss.

Rounds 5 to 10 - In Red - *1dc in each st*, repeat *to*, ss.

Round 11 - In White/Silver - *1dc in each st*, repeat *to*, ss.

Round 12 - In Red - *1dc in each st*, repeat *to*, ss.

Round 13 - In White/Silver - *1dc in each st*, repeat *to*, ss.

Round 14 - In Red - *1dc in each st*, repeat *to*, ss.

Continue in Red.

Round 15 - *1dc in first st, 2dc in next st*, repeat *to*, ss.

Round 16 - *1dc in each st*, repeat *to*, ss.

Round 17 - *ch4, 1dc in first ch, skip 1dc, 1dc in next st*, repeat *to*, ss.

Fasten off threads. Attach a bell to Red yarn and chain a length for the clapper. Pull though hole in top of bell and attached with a dc. Continuing with same thread, 15ch to form a loop and attach to top of bell.

Advent Calendar Day 10

2011-12-17T16:18:00.009Z

I have been busy knitting and crocheting Christmas gifts and I am now playing catch-up with my Advent Calendar. For Day 10 I have used this pattern from DROPS Christmas Workshop.

To make this pattern I crocheted dc in multiples of 3 around a wire hoop and ss into first dc.

Round 2 : Ch6 *skip 2dc, 1dc in next st, 5ch* repeat *to*, ss.

Round 3 : In each 5ch loop - *2dc, 3ch, 1dc in first ch(makes a picot), 2dc*, repeat *to*, ss.

I fastened off my yarn and starched the work before stitching a dangle of beads in the centre. I plan to hang these up with invisible thread in front of our living-room window.

Days 8 and 9 Advent Calendar

2011-12-11T16:11:00.008Z

I'm running a little behind with this project as I am also making Christmas gifts, that need to be sent in the post, so here are Days 8 and 9 of my DROPS inspired Advent Calendar. As you can see I have duplicated a couple of the patterns. I thought that there should be two Mittens on my tree and that the Mini Elf needed a friend. :)

It doesn't seem possible that Christmas Day is only two weeks away! I had better crack on with some more hooking! Best wishes, Pj x

Day 7 Advent Calendar

2011-12-07T13:11:00.008Z

Day 6 on DROPS Christmas Calendar is a 6-pointed star which is too similar to my snowflakes that I will be placing on our Christmas tree, so I have chosen to crochet the Mini Elf from the Christmas Workshop.

Make using a 4mm hook and Dk yarn as before.

Start each round with a ch and end with a ss.

Body:-

Red

Into a magic circle, 1ch, 19dc.

Rounds 1-6 - 1dc in each st.

Round 7 - *1dc, 1dc, 2tog*.

Round 8 - *1dc, 2tog*.

Round 9 - *2tog*.

Peach

Round 10 - 2dc in each st.

Round 11 - Increase x8 dc evenly.

Round 12 - 1dc in each st.

Round 13 - 1dc in each st.

Red

Rounds 14-16 - 1dc in each st.

Round 17 - *4dc, 2tog*.

Round 18 - 1 dc in each st.

Round 19 - *3dc, 2tog*.

Round 20 - 1 dc in each st.

Round 21 - *2dc, 2tog*.

Stuff head.

Round 22 - 1dc in each st.

Round 23 - *1dc, 2tog*.

Round 24 - 1 dc in each st.

Round 25 - *2tog*.

Ch15 to form a loop.

Scarf:-

White

Chain 34 & work 1dc in each.

Fasten off all threads and embroider face.

Day 6 Advent Calendar

2011-12-07T08:28:00.009Z

The pattern for Day 6 on the DROPS Christmas Calendar is for a pair of socks, so I have substituted this Heart Basket pattern from the DROPS Christmas Workshop.

I have crocheted it as per the original pattern using a 4mm hook and DK yarn as before in Red and White.

Pattern using English terms from DROPS Christmas Workshop as follows:-

INCREASING TIP: Inc 1 st by working 2 ch at the end of row. On return row work 1 dc in second ch from hook.
DECREASING TIP: Dec 1 st by working 1 sl st in first dc on row.
WORK 2 TR TOG AS FOLLOWS:
Work 1 tr, but wait with last pull-through (= 2 sts on hook), work 1 tr in the same st, but wait with last pull-through = 3 sts on hook, make 1 YO and pull thread through all 3 sts on hook.
CROCHET TIP: Do not cut the thread when changing colour, but place yarn from colour you’re not using behind piece and crochet round this thread as well on next row.

HEART:
Work 7 ch with 2 threads red and crochet hook size 4 mm.
ROW 1: Work 1 dc in second ch from hook, then 1 dc in each ch = 6 dc, finish with 2 ch.
ROW 2: 1 dc in second ch from hook – SEE INCREASING TIP – then 1 dc in each dc, finish with 2 ch.
ROW 3-6: Like ROW 2 = 11 dc.
ROW 7: 1 dc in second ch from hook, 1 dc in each dc = 12 dc, turn with 1 ch.
ROW 8: 1 dc in each dc, turn with 1 ch.
ROW 9: 1 dc in each dc, turn with 3 ch
ROW 10: * 1 tr in first dc, work 2 tr tog in next dc – SEE ABOVE, 1 tr in next dc *. Change to 2 threads off-white – SEE CROCHET TIP, 1 ch, repeat from *-*. Change to red, 1 ch, repeat from *-*. Change to off-white, 1 ch, repeat from *-*, turn with 1 ch.
ROW 11: 1 dc in each of the first 3 sts. Change to red: 1 ch, 1 dc in each of the next 3 sts. Change to off-white: 1 ch, 1 dc in each of the next 3 sts. Change to red: 1 ch, 1 dc in each of the next 3 sts = 12 dc. Change to off-white, finish with 3 ch.
ROW 12-17: Repeat ROW 10 and 11, but shift the colours to create a square pattern (off-white over red and red over off-white).
Cut the thread after the last row.
Now make the other arch:
ROW 18: Crochet with red: 3 dc in each square along one side = 12 dc, turn with 1 ch.
ROW 19-20: 1 dc in each dc, turn with 1 ch.
ROW 21: 1 sl st in first dc, 1 dc in each of the next dc = 11 dc.
ROW 22-26: Like ROW 21 – SEE DECREASING TIP = 6 dc.
Cut and fasten thread.
Crochet a border of sl sts round the whole heart with 2 threads red.
Make 1 more.

ASSEMBLY: Sew the 2 hearts tog, from the widest point on one side to the widest point on the other side.
HANDLE: Work 3 ch with 2 threads red, turn and work 1 dc in each st until piece measures approx 20 cm, cut the thread and sew handle ends to each heart on the inside at the top.

Day 5 Advent Calendar

2011-12-06T16:03:00.021Z

Guess who is going to sit at the top of my tree? Santa Girl. :) Adapted from Day 5 of DROPS Christmas Calendar 2011. I'm running a day late as Santa Girl took me a little longer to make than the previous calendar patterns and work got in the way!

I altered the pattern slightly so that my doll turned out slightly smaller at 27cm high. Using a 4mm hook she is made from an oddment of Peach DK, shade 6 of Sublime extra fine merino DK, Red Patons Smoothie DK, White Patons Pearl DK, Black DMC Cotton Perle 8 and toy stuffing.

All rounds begin with a chain and end with a slip stitch.

Arms Male 2:-

Peach,

Magic circle, 1ch, 4dc.

*1dc, 2dc* x2.

1dc in each st.

Taupe,

Repeat last round x 10

Stuff lightly.

Legs Make 2:-

Taupe,

Magic circle, 1ch, 4dc.

*1dc, 2dc* x2.

1dc in each st.

Peach,

Repeat last round x 13.

Stuff lightly.

Body:-

Taupe

Start at point that will become mid back of doll.

*1dc, 2dc* around top of legs joining them as you go.

1dc in each st.

Repeat last round x 11.

To attach arms:-

*1dc* when arm position is reached - flatten arm top and continue round by working 1dc through both sides of arm top and into body, as a single stitch.

Shoulders:-

*2tog*.

Stuff body.

Head:-

Peach,

1dc in each stitch, incorporating tail into rear of stitches to use as a drawstring to tighten neck once round is complete.

*1dc, 2dc*

1dc, 1dc, 2dc*

1dc in each stitch.

Nose row 1dc in each stitch until nose position is reached, (1dc, 1ch, ss) in next st. Continue with 1dc in each stitch.

1dc in each stitch.

*1dc, 1dc, 1dc, skip next st*.

1dc in each stitch.

*1dc, 1dc, 1dc, skip next st*.

1dc in each stitch.

*2tog*.

Stuff and draw thread through remaining stitches.

Hat:-

Red,

ch26,

1dc in each stitch.

1dc x4, skip.

1dc in each stitch.

1dc x 4, skip.

1dc in each stitch.

1dc x4, skip.

1dc x2, skip.

1dc in each stitch.

1dc x2, skip.

Draw thread through remaining stitches.

White,

Make a pom pom and attach to top of hat.

Hair:-

White,

Cut 15 lengths of wool and hook through a centre parton on head. Plait x2.

Dress:-

Red,

Ch 48 and ss into a ring.

1dc in each stitch.

1dc x 6, 2tog.

1dc in each stitch.

1dc x 5, 2tog.

1dc in each stitch.

1dc x 4, 2tog.

1dc in each stitch.

1dc x 3, 2tog.

1dc in each stitch.

1dc x 2, 2tog.

1dc in each stitch.

ss x7, ch2, htr x 8, turn.

ch2, htr x8, turn.

ch2, htr x8.

ss down side of top and around to back.

ch 10 and attach to top corner of bib, dc down chain to centre back. ss. Repeat for other strap.

Day 4 Advent Calendar

2011-12-04T22:30:00.011Z

My Mini Santa Hat inspired by Day 4 of the DROPS Christmas Calendar 2011.

I designed and crocheted this today whilst travelling in the car to meet family for lunch near Northampton. Hopefully the pattern makes sense as it wasn't written in ideal circumstances - I somehow ended up with an extra stitch so I simply did an extra double crochet into it!

4mm Hook DK Yarn in Red and White as before plus an oddment of eyelash yarn or similar.

Dc = Double Crochet Ch = Chain Ss = Slip stitch St/s = Stitch/es

Each round starts with a chain which is counted as 1 double crochet.

Each round ends with a slip stitch into first stitch in round.

Using Red, make a magic circle and work 3 x DC into it. Join into a ring with a Ss.

1 Dc in each st = 3sts.

2 Dc in each st = 6 sts.

1 Dc in each st = 6 sts.

*1 Dc in next st, 2 Dc in next st* repeat to end of round = 9 sts.

1 Dc in each st = 9 sts.

*1 Dc in next st, 1 Dc in next st, 2 Dc in next st* repeat to end of round = 12 sts.

1 Dc in each st = 12 sts.

*1 Dc in next st, 1 Dc in next st, 1 Dc in next st, 2 Dc in next st* repeat to end of round = 16 sts.

1 Dc in each st = 16 sts.

*1 Dc in next st, 1 Dc in next st, 1 Dc in next st, 2 Dc in next st* repeat to end of round = 20 sts.

1 Dc in each st = 20 sts.

*1 Dc in next st, 1 Dc in next st, 1 Dc in next st, 1 Dc in next st, 2 Dc in next st* repeat to end of round = 24 sts.

1 Dc in each st = 24 sts.

Change to White Yarn/s. If using eyelash or similar add to White DK yarn and hook as one yarn.

1 Dc in each st = 24 sts.

*1 Dc in next st, 2 Dc in next st* repeat to end of round = 38sts.

Fasten off all ends.

Crochet Bobble using White DK and eyelash yarns.

Into a magic ring crochet 2ch, 8 Dc. Ss to join and tightly draw up circle. This is the top of the bobble.

*Join 2 sts together by inserting hook through next st, yarn round hook and pull through first loop, hook through next stitch, yarn round hook and pull through all loops on hook.* repeat to end of round. Use DK tail to thread though all the sts in last round and draw up tightly, whilst using other tails to stuff bobble. Attach to point of hat.

Advent Calendar Day 3

2011-12-03T13:13:00.022Z

My Mini Snowman Stocking inspired by Day 3 of the DROPS Christmas Calendar.

3.75mm needles - normal & double-pointed

DK in Red & White plus oddments of Orange & Black

K = Knit P = Purl St/s = Stitch/es TB = K or P Through Back of Loop

K2tog = Knit 2 together (or P for Purl) S = Slip

R = Red W = White B = Black O = Orange

Double-pointed needles are needed to work the heel. They can be used throughout of just for the heel.

In W cast on 27 sts leaving a 30cm tail for loop.

Rows 1 to 4 - Moss Stitch (K1, P1 - beginning & ending each row with a knit stitch).

Row 5 - Change to R and knit.

Row 6 - Purl.

Row 7 - Knit.

Row 8 - Purl.

Commence pattern:-

Row 9 - K 18R, 3W, 6R.

Row 10 - P 5R, 5W, 17R.

Row 11 - K 16R, 1R, 1B, 1W, 1B, 3W, 4R.

Row 12 - P 4R, 7W, 16R.

Row 13 - K 16R, 2W, 1O, 4W, 4R.

Row 14 - P 4R, 4W, 1O, 2W, 16R.

Row 15 - K 17R, 5W, 5R.

Row 16 - P 6R, 3W, 18W.

Row 17 - K 17R, 5W, 5R.

Row 18 - P 4R, 7W, 16R.

Row 19 - K 15R, 4W, 1B, 4W, 3R.

Row 20 - P 3R, 9W, 15R.

Row 21 - K 15R, 9W, 3R.

Row 22 - P 3R, 9W, 15R.

Row 23 - K 15R, 4W, 1B, 4W, 3R.

Row 24 - P 3R, 9W, 15R.

Row 25 - K 16R , 7W, 4R.

Row 26 - P 5R, 5W, 17R.

Transfer to dp needles as you work the next two rows if not already using them.

Row 27 - K in Red.

Row 28 - P in Red.

Change to White and work one side of heel:-

K7, turn.

S1, P6, turn.

Repeat these two rows 3 more times.

K3, K2togTB, K1, turn.

S1, P4, turn.

K2, K2togTB, turn.

S1, P2, turn.

K2, K2togTB, K1, turn.

S1, P3.

Leave remaining sts on needle and slide entire work along needle.

Work 2nd side of heel with a separate length of White:-

With wrong side facing work on 1st 7 sts.

P7, turn.

S1, K6, turn.

Repeat these two rows 3 more times.

P3, P2tog, P1, turn.

S1, K4, turn.

P2, P2tog, turn.

S1, K2, turn.

P2, P2tog, P1, turn.

S1, K3.

All sts are now on one needle.

Continue foot in Red:-

K4 heel sts, pick up 5 sts inside heel(TB st 5), K13 across foot, pick up sts inside heel (TB st 1), K4 = 31 sts.

Purl 1 row.

K8, K2tog, K11, K2tog, K8.

P7, P2togTB, P11, P2tog, P7.

K6, K2tog, K11, K2togTB, K6.

Purl 1 row.

Stocking stitch 12 more rows.

Change to White for toe:-

Knit 1 row.

Purl 1 row.

K3, K2togTB, K5, K2tog, K1, K2togTB, K5, K2tog, K3.

Purl 1 row.

K3, K2togTB, K3, K2tog, K1, K2togTB, K3, K2tog, K3.

Purl 1 row.

Cut yarn and thread through remaining stitches on needle and draw up tight.

Sew in all ends and sew up seam.

Loop:-

Using White tail and 3.50mm crochet hook, chain 16 and slip stitch back into top of stocking. Slip stitch back through each chain and fasten off.

Advent Calendar Day 2

2011-12-02T23:21:00.022Z

The ornament for Day 2 was a challenge as it involved knitting in the round on double-pointed needles - something that I'm not very good at as I usually end up with gappy stitches. So I decided to design my own bauble, based on Day 2 of the DROPS Christmas Calendar, but using normal knitting needles.

I left the reverse of the bauble blank for the number 2.

I used the same DK yarns for this decoration as I did for the mitten yesterday and I used 3.75mm needles.

P = Purl K=Knit R = Red W = White St/s = Stitch/es Tog = Together

M1 = Make one by picking up loop between stitches and knitting/purling into the back of it.

WRW = 1 stitch each of White, Red, White to form stripe.

Cast on 6 sts leaving a tail long enough to sew up seam.

Row 1 - Purl

Row 2 - (K1, M1)x5, K1 = 11 sts.

Row 3 - Purl

Row 4 - (K1, M1)x10, K1 = 21 sts.

Row 5 - Purl

Row 6 - K1, M1, K1, M1, K2, M1 to last st, K1 = 36 sts.

Row 7 - P18, M1, P18 = 37 sts.

Pattern Rows:-

Row 8 - K 2R, WRW, 5R, 1W, 3R, 1W, 5R, WRW, 14R.

Row 9 - P 14R, WRW, 5R, 2W, 1R, 2W, 5R, WRW, 2R.

Row 10 - K 2R, WRW, 5R, 5W, 5R, WRW, 14R.

Row 11 - P 14R, WRW, 5R, 5W, 5R, WRW, 2R.

Row 12 - K 2R, WRW, 1R, 4W, 1R, 3W, 1R, 4W, 1R, WRW, 14R.

Row 13 - P 14R, WRW, 2R, 4W, 3R, 4W, 2R, WRW, 2R.

Row 14 - K 2R, WRW, 3R, 3W, 1R, 1W, 1R, 3W, 3R, WRW, 14R. (1W = centre)

Row 15 - P Repeat Row 13.

Row 16 - K Repeat Row 12.

Row 17 - P Repeat Row 11.

Row 18 - K Repeat Row 10.

Row 19 - P Repeat Row 9.

Row 20 - Repeat Row 8.

End of Pattern rows, continue in red only for decrease rows.

R0w 21 - P18, P2tog, P17 = 36 sts.

Row 22 - *K2tog, K2tog, K1* Repeat *to* to last 2 sts, K2tog = 21 sts.

Row 23 - *K2tog* Repeat *to* to last 1 st, K1 = 11 sts.

Row 24 - Purl

Row 25 - *K2tog* Repeat *to* to last 1 st, K1 = 6 sts.

Cut thread leaving a tail of approx 30 cms and thread tail through remaining 6 stitches and draw up tight. Use casting on tail to draw up cast on stitches and sew up seam. Using a 4mm crochet hook work 16 chains out of top tail and slip stitch to form a loop. Fasten off ends.

I have just viewed Day 3 and it is a pair of socks! I had thought that the calendar would be all decorations, so I will try to adapt tomorrow's design.

Pj x

Advent Calendar Day 1

2011-12-01T14:46:00.024Z

Whilst surfing the net this afternoon, as you do :), I found DROPS Christmas Calendar 2011 here. As you will know from reading my last post, I have plenty of time on my hands!! :) , but I couldn't resist trying out the first design and now I am hooked.

Day 1 is a crocheted mitten and the pattern page can be found here.

As the pattern is in US terms I have translated the pattern here:-

I used a 4mm hook and Patons DK Smoothie in Red and Patons Pearl DK in White.

Ch = Chain Ss = Slip Stitch Dc = Double Crochet Tr = Treble

Round 1.

Make a magic ring and ch1 into it, ch2 (these 3 chains form the 1st tr). 9tr into ring. Ss into top of 3rd chain. (10 trebles)

Round 2.

Ch3 (these 3 chains form the 1st tr). 2tr in next tr. *1tr in next tr. 2tr in next tr.* Repeat * to * to end of round. Ss into top of 3rd chain. (15 trebles)

Round 3.

Ch3 (forms 1st tr). 1 tr in next tr. 2tr in next tr. *1tr in each of next 2tr, 2tr in next tr.* Repeat * to * to end of round. Ss into top of 3rd chain. (20 trebles)

Rounds 4 - 6

Ch3 (forms 1st tr). *1tr in next tr.* Repeat * to * to end of round. Ss into top of 3rd chain. (20 trebles)

Round 7.

Ch1 (forms first dc). *dc in each tr.* Ss into top of 1st chain. (20 double crochets)Fasten off yarn.

Round 8.

Switch to white yarn make 1ch into previous dc. 1dc into same dc. *ch4. dc into 4th ch from hook. Skip a dc and dc into next dc.* Repeat * to * to end of round. Ss into ch1. Fasten off.

Thumb - Round 1.

Using red make a magic ring and ch1 into it, ch2 (these 3 chains form the 1st tr). 9tr into ring. Ss into top of 3rd chain. (10 trebles)

Thumb - Round 2.

Ch3 (forms 1st tr). *1 tr in next tr.* * Repeat * to * to end of round. Ss into ch3. (10 trebles) Fasten off, stuff lightly with scraps of thread, flatten and sew onto side of mitten. Fasten off all threads and embroider a number 1 on main part of mitten.

The eagle-eyed amongst you will notice that I missed a row in the first mitten! Not intentional, here is one the correct size. The smaller one will make a sweet gift decoration. I am experimenting with the numbers - this one is cut from felt using my Big Shot Machine.

I'm looking forward to seeing the next design tomorrow.

November 2011

2011-12-01T10:47:00.008Z

This month's mosaics have definitely got a wintry feel to them, but there is still a hint of summer in both of them. The garden mosaic depicts the contrasting weather we have had. The beginning of the month was warm and sunny and a lot of flowers were still in bloom in the garden before my tidy up. This past week we had our first real frost and temperatures were lower for a couple of days. It has also been rather windy and many of the leaves have now been blown from the trees.

November started with a bang - Fireworks Night! In contrast my roses still think it is summer!! Indoors, I have been crafting for Christmas and the cats have decided to sunbath inside now that the weather has become more seasonal, although it is still mild most days.

I have finally finished all of my Christmas shopping and now I am thinking about decorations and festive menus. That may sound very organised, but I'm not really! When I realise that Christmas is so close and I have so much that I plan to do before then, mild panic sets in!! Still, I love Christmas and I'm looking forward to spending time with my family.

Maybe it isn't panic, maybe it's anticipation. :)

November Photo Scavenger Hunt

2011-11-30T13:27:00.019Z

It's time to post my November contribution to Kathy's Photo Scavenger Hunt:-

1. A Lucky Charm

I thought that this was going to be a difficult one, but then I remembered my sixpence that I had in my shoe on my wedding day - "Something old, something new ... and a silver sixpence in her shoe." Unfortunately this one was minted in 1958 and therefore is made of cupro-nickel and not silver!

2. A Poppy

It had to be a Remembrance Day poppy.

3. A Self-portrait

I took this one with my iPhone, in July whilst we were on holiday. That's me on the right! ;)

4. Comfort Food

I'm on a diet, so all food is comfort food to me at the moment! This photo was taken during October, as of course I'm not eating any cake this month!!! :)

5. Memorial

Not a very good photo I'm afraid, as I didn't have the tripod with me, but I thought it would be a change to photograph the war memorial at night time.

6. Polka Dots

I love polka dots and so it was purely coincidence that I bought new bowls for the cats this month and that they are dotty ones.

7. Silhouette

Ella sunning her whiskers on top of the patio roof.

8. Something Purple

When it came to this photo I suddenly realised that there isn't a lot of purple in our home. Luckily I have two purple Trollbeads in my collection and I wore them on this necklace the other night, when we attended my son's GCSE Certificate Evening.

9. Something that Lights Up

It's November so that would be fireworks! :)

10. Something that You Have Made

Surprisingly this was a difficult one for me as my blog is full of items that I have made and I wanted to photograph something that hadn't been featured on my blog before. Cue this box of lace. All hand-made bobbin lace, made by me 20+ years ago. I learnt to make bobbin lace when I was 19 years old, but I haven't made much since my children were born.

11. Staircase

An excuse to show our cats sitting on the stairs.

12. Warmth

This morning I was "scratching my head" over this one until Ella started roly polying in a patch of sunlight near the patio door, before curling up to sleep in the sun's warmth.

Thank you Ella. :) One month left to do!

Outside and In

2011-11-25T16:05:00.012Z

This week I finally found the time to work in my neglected back garden. As we have only had a couple of frosts so far this winter, all the nasturtiums were still in flower, but I felt it was time to have a tidy up for winter, so I pulled them up and the annuals that were past their best. I have pruned the shrubs and perennials and will sort out the lawn another day. The trees around the outside of the fence will need to be pruned as well. Somehow it seems right to see patches of bare earth once again. A lot of plants are still thriving, due to the mild weather conditions and I could even see the shoots of some bulbs beginning to poke through the soil.

Before

After

Indoors I have been knitting and hooking. I am knitting this scarf as a Christmas gift. Lattice stitch is new to me, but it was simple to learn.

These stars are now for sale in my friend's shop. I plan to make some for our Christmas tree next.

I have also started to crochet another scarf that will be a Christmas present. It is now only one month to Christmas Day. :) Last Friday I started my Christmas shopping and on Saturday I had nearly finished! :) I just have a couple of gifts to buy and I am all done. :) I have bought a few Christmassy magazines over the past month, perhaps I will now find the time to read them!

Best wishes, Pj x

Christmas Preparations

2011-11-18T10:43:00.012Z

At the end of last week I finally got around to baking my Christmas cake. As usual I made Delia's Classic Christmas Cake. It has been "fed" its first lot of brandy and has been wrapped up in foil. I don't need to do much Christmas baking this year as we plan to spend time at my parents' this Christmas.

On the crafting front I have designed and painted these wooden trees. My Dad cut them out for me :) and my friend is selling them in her shop.

I've crocheted some snowflakes, as I plan to change the festive decor this year to red and white - hopefully with a Scandinavian feel. Next up will be some red stars.

Also I have completed a few shell necklaces for sale

and now I just need to do my Christmas shopping. Normally I'm finished by now, but this year I have hardly started!! So I'm off into town today to make a start.

Best wishes, Pj x

Bonfire Night ...

2011-11-06T12:12:00.014Z

... aka Guy Fawkes Night, is the night when here in the UK we celebrate The Gunpowder Plot of 1605, with fireworks displays and traditionally bonfires with a Guy (an effigy of Guy Fawkes) on top, although this tradition isn't a common occurrance nowadays.

This year we missed our village display (it was a week early!), so we went to the Mayor's Firework Fiesta in town. The fireworks were wonderful, but my ears are still ringing from the loud music!

Three bright sparks!

October 2011

2011-11-03T15:36:00.008Z

Monday was Halloween and I like to decorate the front porch to welcome the "Trick or Treaters".

One group was so impressed with my Jack-O'-Lanterns that they said, "Forget the sweets, can we have your pumpkins!" :)

I also like to decorate indoors

and to make something sweet to celebrate.

Time for the monthly round-up. October's mosaic had to include Halloween and of course our anniversary cards. It also includes two "cause and effect" photos - too much cake has meant I have had to go to the gym!! ;) Besides my new gym routine I have been knitting, planting up the pots for winter and I went shopping at Gunwharf Quays on Saturday with my husband and son and we stopped to admire the boats in the harbour.

In the garden the nasturtiums have taken over and there are still roses, dahlias and cosmos in full bloom, due to the mild weather we have been experiencing. So far we have only had one frost and temperatures have regularly been between 11 and 15'C.

So now it is November and I will finish my third and final post of the day with this thought:-

It's only 51 days until Christmas! ;)

Pj x

Hot off the Needles

2011-11-03T14:50:00.007Z

My second post of the day is all about why I am behind with my blog. I have been busy knitting premature baby clothes for SSNAP, a charity that Jodi of Ohsewbeautiful supports.

These little matinee sets are now in the post to Jodi and my thoughts are with those parents that go through such a difficult time.

Best wishes, Pj x

October Photo Scavenger Hunt

2011-11-03T10:00:00.017Z

I'm playing "catch up" with my blog today. This first post is my Photo Scavenger Hunt entry.

1. A Black Cat

That would have to be Maurice! Here he is beside of the kitchen cupboard that contains the cat food. This is his "Please feed me Mummy" look. :)

Ella has a better idea - self-service!!

She knows that this handle opens the door, but luckily she doesn't seem to be strong enough to open it! :)

2. Candlelit

My Halloween jars that I painted a couple of years ago.

3. Crunchy Leaves

These leaves were blown onto our driveway.

4. Fog/Mist

Early morning mist heralding a sunny October day.

5. Golden

Golden cidre not cider!

And these beautiful leaves on a tree in our road.

6. Graffiti

This was a difficult one as there isn't too much graffiti around here. This one near Bramley station made me smile, because of the words "NEVA SEEN".

7. Heritage

The Vyne - A National Trust property, in our area, that we like to visit.

7. Pumpkin

One of our home-grown pumpkins that I carved for Halloween.

8. River

The River Loddon that runs nearby. I snapped this photo whilst my husband and I were Geocaching.

9. Something Eerie

Not sure whether this is eerie or scary (or neither). I guess it depends on how you feel about spiders!

10. Sunset

I had a "blonde moment" and took a photo of a sunrise!

So here is a photo I took of a sunset in Turkey during July.

11. Witch's Hat/Broomstick

Hat and broomstick modeled by Gretel. (I used to collect Cherished Teddies.)

Now for November's list:-

a lucky charm
a poppy
a self-portrait eeeek!!!!
comfort food
memorial
polka dots
silhouette
something purple
something that lights up
something you have made
staircase
warmth

I'm not sure about number 3!! ;)

Autumn ...

2011-10-24T11:21:00.010+01:00

... Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness.

Of dew soaked dandelions,

And of blue skies and winter berries.

Of fantastic fungi

and prickly sweet chestnuts.

Of acorn strewn paths and benches.

Of journeys through the air

and on the land.

The season of our pumpkin harvest

and our wedding anniversary.

♥ 23 wonderful years ♥

Is it summer?

2011-10-05T11:26:00.016+01:00

Is it autumn? The weather here doesn't seem to be able to make up its mind! Autumn had began and then at the end of September we had a mini heatwave with record temperatures for this time of year. The 1st October was the hottest on record, locally reaching 29'C.

We had a BBQ in the evening and then one again at lunchtime the next day. That is probably more than we have had all summer! We made Jamie Oliver's Jalapeno Flatbreads, which were very easy to make using 250g SR flour, a pinch of salt, 0.5tsp baking powder and 250g yogurt. Mix to a soft dough and roll out to 2mm thick. Oil BBQ and cook for 2-3 minutes turning once. I also made some using sliced red onion as our homegrown chilli peppers are not for the faint-hearted! :) It was so yummy that I almost forgot to take a photo. This is the last piece disappearing!

Maurice even tried to join in by bring a mouse to the BBQ!! Luckily it escaped, so Maurice had to settle for some burger and cheese. :)

We also BBQ'd some of our homegrown sweetcorn. Freshly picked and soaked in the husks for a short while before cooking - they are so sweet; quite unlike any shop bought corn.

I have been doing a lot of baking in the kitchen too. Amongst other things I have made several sponges,

cheese scones,

baby fruitcakes,

and some beetroot pickle.

Also in readiness for winter I have been bringing the geraniums indoors and replanting the patio pots with ferns, grasses and pansies.

Sadly the heatwave is now over and I am planning for winter! I have just bought some new boots and I am breaking them in indoors. My son asked me why was I wearing my wellies!!

I also have to confess to buying my first Christmas magazine! :)

And I couldn't resist rescuing these embroidered table cloths from the local charity shop,

as well as this half pint mug. I love the vintage feel of this mug, but I'm firmly on the fox's side when it comes to hunting.

Craft wise I recently painted and distressed this terracotta pot to sit on my new pot saucer

and I have made a couple of flower ball necklaces for myself.

I'm still knitting; I've almost finished the white matinee jacket now.

The weeks seem to be flying by; never mind summer or autumn it will soon be winter!!

September 2011 and Photo Scavenger Hunt

2011-10-03T13:28:00.017+01:00

Another month has passed and it is time for the monthly mosaics again! September has flown by for me; I have been busy at the allotment weeding, planting, harvesting vegetables, freezing rhubarb and pickling the beetroot. At home I started the month with painting our bedroom and making curtains and after taking part in OhSewBeautiful's Cupcake Swap I have started to knit premature baby clothes for the charity that Jodi supports. "Jay" started college and that meant packed lunches again, which in turn meant lots of baking and I am back at work now that the summer holidays are over.

The garden has continued to look beautiful. At the end of September I started sorting out my hanging baskets and pots ready for their winter flowers and suddenly we are having a heat wave!

I have been a little hit and miss in my photography this month for the Photo Scavenger Hunt that is being hosted by Postcards from the P.P., so I have had to cheat with a couple of them!

1. Back to school

That would be me then!

I'm the only one in the family that goes to school now! ;)

2. The football/soccer season

A football that belongs to my son. You can see that it is hardly used! We aren't really into football.

3. What's in your bag?

The contents of my handbag.

4. Relaxation

A cat, because no one does relaxation like a cat!

5. Harvest

Some beetroot harvested for pickling.

6. A pile of things

A pile of magazines or to be exact a pile of Woman's Weeklys. Ever since my Mum first went out to work she has bought the WW and her sister shared the WWs while they both lived at home. They both married and the WWs travelled between their homes; some returned back to my Mum if she wanted to cut out a recipe or knitting pattern. As I grew up I started reading them at home before they travelled to my Aunt's and since I have been married the magazines have travelled in bulk from my Mum - to my Aunt - and on to me (via my Mum). It has become a family tradition. :)

7. Your desk/workspace

Okay, so this is the cheat! The photo of my desk is the same as the photo for number 1!!

8. A public telephone box

I don't like the modern boxes - "Bring back the old ones" I say! The local telephone box is a modern one, so here is a photo that I took during a visit to London in May 2009.

9. Something taller than you

An autumnal tree in the school grounds. Simply beautiful.

10. Apples

These Bramley apples are growing in my friend's back garden.

11. A road sign

We spotted this road sign whilst on holiday in Turkey this year. It looked like it had been used for target practice!

12. A view from above

Our back garden as seen from "Fay's" bedroom window.

October's list looks like it is going to be fun to photograph:-

a black cat
candlelit
crunchy leaves
fog/mist
golden
graffiti
heritage
pumpkin
river
something eerie
sunset
witch's hat/broomstick

Cupcake Swap and Knitting for Charity

2011-09-21T08:44:00.012+01:00

Recently I took part in a Cupcake Swap hosted by Jodi at OhSewBeautiful and I had lots of fun choosing all things cupcake related for my swap partner Heather of The Patchwork Heart.

This is the parcel that I sent to Heather

and these are the gifts that it contained.

I crocheted these lavender cupcakes for Heather and I now seem to have an addiction to making them! :)

I received these lovely parcels from Heather, all neatly tied up with ribbon.

Heather had been very busy stitching a wall-hanging, notebook cover and key fob for me - all beautifully made. Thank you Heather for my gorgeous gifts.

Thank you also to Jodi for hosting this swap.

Calling all knitters - Jodi is currently supporting a knit-together for this charity

Please support her. Details can be found here. I know I have some 4-ply yarn lurking in my stash and I will be knitting something to send to Jodi.

Allotment Update

2011-09-16T15:35:00.015+01:00

We have had a good supply of vegetables from our new allotment all summer. We devoted our old allotment to potatoes, sweetcorn, pumpkins and squashes this year and my Husband has been harvesting a good crop of potatoes - hopefully enough to see us through until next year.

I spent yesterday afternoon at the new allotment and harvested a large bucket load of onions.

In their place I planted some more leeks. The first plantings replaced the garlic harvest in the same bed. The dibber is the handle from my Grandad's old fork.

The early-sprouting broccoli is thriving under the Enviromesh.

Sadly this is the only aubergine this year from the 4 plants that I had planted. Also in this bed were Gartenperle tomatoes, which unfortunately got the blight and had to be removed last week.

My spring-planted spinach beet had lasted all summer, but finally it had gone to seed, so yesterday I planted a new crop. I don't know if this is too late in the season, but I thought it was worth a try.

The Brussels sprouts are growing, but are infested with the dreaded white fly! I will have to do something about that this weekend.

We have good crops of beetroot, celeriac and carrots under mesh in this bed. I saw on Gardeners' World last week that you need to remove the outer leaves on celeriac each week to encourage the bulb to swell, so I plan to do that this autumn.

All of the beans are almost over now and we still have a few courgettes. I have also grown some gourds for decorations and the rhubarb is still growing.

Not bad for our first season. :)

Slight drama yesterday - someone got their key stuck in the allotment gate padlock and I was trapped inside! Luckily (?) there had previously been a break-in through the fence and someone was able to get some tools from home and undo the repaired part of the fence to make a hole for me to crawl out of!! :) I didn't go back this afternoon! Instead I worked in the greenhouse - removing the leaves from the tomato plants to encourage the tomatoes to ripen. At least I can't get locked in there! :) My garden has been rather neglected whilst I was decorating, so this weekend I plan to do some pruning and deadheading.

Wishing you all a great weekend, Pj x

The End of the Summer Holidays ...

2011-09-14T09:28:00.011+01:00

... and I have gone back to work for a rest! During the final week of the summer holidays I was very busy decorating our bedroom. I have painted the walls in off-white and I made some new curtains in duck egg blue. Sorry for the bad quality of this picture, the light isn't good in here for taking photos.

We are going for a vintage feel in this room with a new light fitting and curtain pole. The light shade was quick to assemble

and I love it.

I think it is so pretty.

I love that the birds on the curtain pole match the birds on the curtains. This photo shows that true colours of the room. I just need to buy new bedside lamps and a metal Victorian-style bed head then the room will be finished.

I have also given the hall, stairs and landing walls their annual lick of paint to cover up any marks that bags (Fay!!) and fingers (Jay!!) have made. The ceiling also received a new coat of paint. Next year my husband will have to redo the white work as it is rather chipped in places. He has been warned! :) This month I will be decorating the cloakroom and changing the gold coving back to white in our living-room.

Meanwhile this lazy boy had been taking it easy on my car!!

Cheeky boy!!

August 2011

2011-09-08T11:37:00.008+01:00

Another month has passed and we are already a week into September. Today is my Son's first day at college. He is studying A-levels in Computing, Business Studies, Physics and Electronics and he is also taking an enrichment course in Fitness to gain a qualification as a Fitness Instructor. I have said that he can get me fit! :) This week has been my last week off work and I have been very busy decorating our bedroom. All the painting is now finished and I have almost completed the curtains - I just need to hem them now. All we now need are two bedside lamps and some new bed linen, but I can't decide on a set yet!!

Back to August and time for the monthly mosaics.

The highlight of August for me was spending a week in Norfolk with my parents. We had the best week weather wise; this August was the seventh wettest since records began in 1914. Back home I kept warm by the oven, whilst baking cakes! The cupcakes in the middle of the mosaic I made and took to Norfolk for my Mum's birthday.

In the garden the flowers have survived all the rain, although some have looked rather bedraggled at times. The lawn has loved the rain; it is lush and in need of another cut when the rain stops!

It has been so dull this month that the tomatoes in the greenhouse are late to ripen. I hope that they are ready before the frosts start, otherwise I will have to make lots of green tomato chutney. Soon it will be time to replant the patio pots for winter and to bring in the less hardy plants. There is a definite autumnal chill to the mornings now. I'm still hanging on to wearing sandals, but I suspect that won't be for much longer. It will be Halloween before we know it! (At least I didn't say Christmas!!)

Best wishes, Pj x

August's Photo Scavenger Hunt

2011-08-30T09:40:00.049+01:00

Last month I joined A Photo Scavenger Hunt hosted by Kathy of Postcards from P.P.

Here are my photos for August:-

1. A Fountain

This fountain is in the courtyard of The Assembly House in Norwich.

2. A Boat

A trip down memory lane; this is the Norfolk White Boat that I used to sail on when I was younger (with an ex-boyfriend!) We saw it whilst we were out walking.

3. Mountains

I had to cheat here. During August we went to Norfolk - no mountains there! :) So this is a photo that I took last month whilst we were on holiday in Turkey.

4. Street Food

Do ice-creams count as street food? My son playing with his food!! :)

5. A Picnic

My husband and son with our picnic, whilst walking by The Norfolk Broads.

6. Market Day

Norwich Market is a permanent market. There has been a market in Norwich since Saxon times and this market site is older than any of the surrounding buildings. I can remember this flower stall being here when I was a child.

7. A Festival or Funfair

Last weekend it was The Reading Festival. I snapped these festival-goers whilst we were out for a walk beside the River Thames. I'm glad that I wasn't joining them as they had typical festival weather over the weekend - torrential rain!

8. Bread

Yummy, walnut bread with an evening meal.

9. Something Bizarre

Someone's private garden on the Norfolk coast.

Some of the sculptures were quite bizarre (I didn't like the head behind bars in the garden wall), but the overall effect of the garden was amazing.
10. Fabric

I have just bought 7 metres of this gorgeous material from Laura Ashley. We are planning to redecorate our bedroom and I will be making this fabric into curtains.

11. A Sport

As a family we aren't really into sports, but we do like walking and cycling.

Here is a photo of my Mum, looking rather sporty with her hiking poles and map. I love this photo; my Mum doesn't like having her photo taken and this is a good shot of her laughing at me.

12. Something Ancient

At the end of our week in Norfolk we visited Grimes Graves and went down a Neolithic Flint Mine.

and just for a laugh ...

13. A Norfolk Mountain

Beeston Bump - 207 feet above sea level!

Beeston Bump is the remaining one of two hills that were created during the last ice age.

Home Again ...

2011-08-25T11:15:00.044+01:00

... and wishing this rain would stop!

This posy from my garden has been brightening up the kitchen window sill,

while I baked Apple & Cinnamon Muffins

and Peanut Butter & Chocolate Cookies.

We had one day of sunshine earlier this week and my husband and I went blackberry picking.

We also picked some of these plums

and I discovered the tallest pear tree that I have ever seen; it was as big as an oak tree. I could only manage to reach 3 pears!

I have frozen the blackberries for a winter treat

and I turned the plums into jam.

Knowing that we were expecting heavy rain I rescued some roses from the garden and placed them in our living-room. The wooden cat in the photo is a recent project. I painted him white and then F&B Pavilion Grey, distressed him to reveal some of the white and highlighted some areas by gilding with silver leaf.

All this rain has encouraged Maurice and Ella to stay indoors.

It also encouraged me to spent a morning on the 'net and I discovered Pixlr-o-matic.

Pixlr is a simple, free, on-line photo editor and I have played with a few effects.

The cats have been given a vintage look by using Sophia

and this photo has been altered using the following effects :-

Melissa

Worn

Flowery

Melissa & Flowery

Melissa & Worn

Melissa, Stop & Trashy

Peter

Peter & Old

Peter, Old & Twinkle

Pixlr is so quick and easy to use and I love the combinations of the effects.

Best wishes, Pj x

A Sunny Week in Norfolk

2011-08-24T11:30:00.029+01:00

Yes I've been away again! :) This time to spend a week with my parents in Norfolk. :)

We were very lucky with the weather and spent most days on the coast.

The first beach we visited was at Winterton-on-Sea

and we worked our way a long the coast throughout the week.

Overstrand

It was cloudy at times, but still warm.

Sheringham

Trimingham

Of course we had to have an ice-cream! :)

I love Ronaldo's ice-cream; mine was yummy Christmas Pudding.

Whilst in Sheringham we watched the steam train leave the station.

We spent one day walking by The Norfolk Broads.

Thurne Drainage Mill

Another day we went Geocaching with my parents.

Our walk took us by:-

steam trains,

along riverbanks

and through fields of cows with bulls!

We also went Geocaching with my best friend and her family.

No trip to Norfolk would be complete without a visit to Norwich.

Elm Hill

Norwich Castle

We had lunch at the cafe in The Assembly House.

"Poshing it up" to quote Jay!

On the way home we took a small detour to Grimes Graves and climbed 30 feet down a Neolithic mine shaft to view the tunnels created by the flint miners. I can remember visiting here when I was a little girl and going down the mine with my Dad.

The grassland is pockmarked with 400 mines that have been back-filled.

Sunset over farmland near my home village. I still think of Norfolk as my home, even though I left when I was 23 years old.

Now when can I plan my next visit?

Busy, Busy, Busy!

2011-08-13T10:44:00.011+01:00

I have been so busy recently that I haven't spent much time on the computer.

I have been harvesting:-

Giant beetroot from our allotment and pickling it. These two were huge and this is my biggest saucepan!!

Not so small spring onions!

Lots and lots of beans.

And trying to pick the courgettes whilst they are still small.

I recently took part in Laalaa's Magic Ball Swap and now that my partner has opened her gifts, I can show you the items that I made:-

The Magic Ball that I sent

I crocheted a lucky ladybird charm

and a flower brooch.

I beaded a necklace

and matching earrings.

I also made a lavender sachet that I didn't photograph.

I couldn't resist any longer - I unravelled my ball! Thank you Gem.

And finally, I have sewn a quilted needlecase for my Mum who recently requested one.

I have another busy week planned, so I'm off again! :)

Best wishes, Pj x

Bliss ...

2011-08-05T15:58:00.010+01:00

... is an afternoon spent at home with only a cat for company. :)

(Don't let on, but Ella thinks we can't see her hidden in the curtain!)

It is rare for me to have the house to myself, even if it is only for a few hours.

I have been ...

drinking tea and nibbling a Lavender Cupcake. I made these last night and I have to say they are yummy.

I have been ...

playing with Abraham Darby - I think the colours of this rose compliment my new vase beautifully.

I have been ...

hand quilting some material for a needle case as a gift for my Mum.

I have been ...

painting chickens!!!

I have been ...

photographing Ella as she took a turn around the garden.

Wishing you all a blissful weekend, Pj x

June, July and now August!

2011-08-04T10:35:00.028+01:00

Usually I start my monthly mosaic post with something like "... another month has gone by", but this time two months have gone by!!!

So it's catch-up time ...

June 2011

June is birthday month here and my baby turned 16. The roses and lilies bloomed in the garden and the cats enjoyed the sunshine between the showers.

July 2011

July was dominated by our holiday in Turkey. Such a beautiful country.

Once we were back home I was very busy at work, but still found time to do some baking and gardening, including harvesting lots of lavender from our allotment. We also saw the final Harry Potter film "The Deathly Hallows - Part 2".

On the crafting front in July, I took part in Laalaa's Magic Ball Swap and made a few items for my swap partner, but I can't show them here as I don't want to spoil the surprise.

August 2011

And now it is August. This beauty has appeared at the top of our road - serious camper van envy here. I gaze longingly at it as I do the dishes!! :)

I found this vase in the local charity shop. I seem to be collecting pressed glassware; it wasn't intentional, but I can't resist giving pieces I see a good home! :)

This week my husband has hung up the two lanterns that we purchased in Turkey. He plans to light them electrically and eventually we hope to find a third lantern of a different design to hang between these two. I have mentioned to my OH that I would like to visit Morocco!! :)

I think I have finally caught up! Oops, I almost forgot - I have posted a new recipe on my other blog for Chocolate and Courgette Muffins.

We have a glut of courgettes and I adapted a muffin recipe to use some of them. My children don't like courgettes, but they like these. :)

Hope you like them too.

Best wishes, Pj x

Photo Scavenger Hunt

2011-07-31T16:17:00.029+01:00

It will come as no surprise to anyone who reads my blog that I love taking photos, so when I saw the link for A Photo Scavenger Hunt on a blog I had to join in. The hunt is being hosted by Kathy of Postcards of the P.P.

As I only saw the link today - the last day of July - I had to move fast to enter the July hunt! After a look through the past month's photos I found I had photographed most of the list already. I have had to supplement the photos in a couple of instances.

1. A Flag

An easy one as I had photographed a Turkish flag whilst on holiday.

2. A Kite

Not an easy one! I could have got my son's kite out, but I decided to use a favourite photo of mine. This is my son using his kite, when it was new, on Fistral Beach in Cornwall back in 2006.

3. Celebration

Another cheat I'm afraid! We don't have any birthdays to celebrate in July and as I am entering this hunt on the last day of the month I have used a photo from the end of June. This is the cake that I made for my son's 16th birthday.

4. Fields

Back on track! :) I took this photo with my new iPhone as the plane approached Dalaman Airport.

5. Flip Flops

I don't do flip flops as I can't bear anything between my toes. Luckily my son has a pair so I took them outside for a quick photo.

6. Ice Cream

What no photos of an ice cream?! Nothing for it, but to raid the freezer! :)

7. Red, White & Blue

Beautiful tiles inside a mosque that we visited near Fethiye.

8. Seashells

I have lots of shells around my house and garden, but I wanted to use these "sea" shells that I photographed on the beach at Patara. These are Loggerhead Turtle eggshells.

9. Something that makes you Happy (not a person or an animal!)

A magnificent sunset. Aren't the colours gorgeous?

10. Stars

Four stars on the front of our hotel.

11. Strawberries

These little Alpine Strawberries are growing in my garden. I love them! :)

12. Stripes

A freebie tray designed by Celia Birtwell.

August's list is as follows if anyone wants to join in :-

a fountain
a boat
mountains
street food
a picnic
market day
a festival or funfair
bread
something bizarre
fabric
a sport
something ancient

Let the Summer Holidays Commence!

2011-07-28T09:59:00.014+01:00

Finally the summer holidays are here. I know I have been on holiday recently, but the past two weeks have been hectic at work; as is always the case that the end of a school year. I have worked extra hours and my routine at home has well and truly been thrown out! So over the next few days I plan to tidy and clean the house and garden.

I started yesterday with trimming some plants and sweeping the patio - it needed it as the day before I had picked 20lbs/9kgs of Old English Lavender from my allotment and sorted it into bunches on my patio.

I have cut and edged the lawn.

And have been enjoying being in the garden.

The buds on my White Agapanthus are starting to open.

One of the Sunflowers is bringing a much needed splash of sunniness into the garden.

The Astilbes have been enjoying all the rain that we have had.

My Geoff Hamilton Rose is in full bloom again.

I just wish that I had planted it nearer the patio edge so that I could smell it and not in the middle of the flower bed.

My three Buddleias are attracting lots of butterflies.

Yesterday afternoon I even gave Mini a wash and valet!

Now what am I going to do with the next six weeks?! :)

Wishing you all wonderful summer holidays, Pj xx

A Good Yarn ...

2011-07-28T09:24:00.013+01:00

Part 1. At the weekend we took the "children" to the cinema to see the final Harry Potter film.

I say "children", because they are now 16 and 19 years old! Their generation has literally grown up with Harry Potter and they were eager to see the last installment of "The Deathly Hallows".

2. Recently I mentioned that I am taking part in Laalaa's Magic Ball Swap.

Last week my ball of yarn arrived from Gem. My cheeky son said it looked like a Christmas pudding! Well it certainly felt like Christmas for me. :) Wool, chocolate and gifts - it must be Christmas. I love the tag and will probably use it in my scrapbook when I get around to scraping some pages on our trip to Paris last year.

Inside the gifts were these goodies. Thank you from me and the cats. :)

My fingers are itching to start on the yarn, but first I have some other projects to complete, including a few items for Gem's Magic Ball, which I plan to post tomorrow. Hope you like it Gem. xxx

Turkey 2011

2011-07-15T16:12:00.105+01:00

Hello, I'm back! I have just spent the most fantastic two weeks in Turkey with my husband and son. We stayed at Oludeniz and had a hire car so that we could tour the area. We aren't really beach people; we like to spend a short time on the beach and as the temperature often reached over 40'C a dip in the sea or swimming pool was most welcome, but the majority of the holiday was spent exploring.

Here are a few, okay lots and lots, of photos from our holiday. :)

The beach at Oludeniz.

The sand gives way to pebbles near the sea.

View of Oludeniz from the road as we climbed out of the valley.

The chain of islands out to sea, viewed as we drove along the coast road.

A local directed us to follow this road saying "you can manage it in this car and the views are wonderful". He was right about the views, but the road gradually petered out to a goat track and we lost our nerve and turned around!

This was our first visit to Turkey and the scenery was more stunning than we had expected.

We drove and walked beside olive and orange grooves.

We trekked through Saklikent Gorge.

Sometimes the water was chest-high on me and we had to climb over boulders worn slippery over millennia by the water that cascades through the gorge.

We even managed a few Geocaches. This one was on the Lycian Way.

One day we drove quite some distance to Pamukkale, which translates as Cotton Castle, to see the spectacular white travertine terraces that have formed from when the hot spring water loses carbon dioxide as it flows down the slope, leaving behind limestone deposits which have built up in steps on the plateau.

To preserve the natural terraces, you can nolonger walk on them, but new terraces have been formed to one side of the slope and visitors are allowed to swim in them.

At the top of the mountain is the site of Hierapolis and before walking around the ruins we swam in the hot spring water of Aphrodite's Pool, amongst the ruins of Apollo's temple.

Throughout the holiday we visited many archaeological sites. Turkey has been populated by many different civilisations. We were amazed that visitors are allowed to walk over these buildings. It felt such a privilege to walk in the footsteps of ancient peoples.

The theatre at Hierapolis, built in 200BC

and one at Myra.

Xanthos.

A Lycian sarcophagus at Xanthos. These are found all around the region. My husband is standing next to this one to show how big they are - he is over 6' tall.

Lycian Rock Tombs at Fethiye

and Myra.

The ghost town of Kayakoy, formally known as Karmylassos. This town was deserted in the exchange of populations between Greece and Turkey that took place in 1923.

We did spend some time on a beach.

These beautiful 18 kms of sand at Patara are where Loggerhead Turtles lay their eggs.

Nest sites were marked with a few sticks and it was possible to see the trails left in the sand by the turtles, as they had returned to the sea.

We spent a very pleasant few hours sunbathing and swimming here.

We also visited the Blue Lagoon near Oludeniz,

where we spotted a crab and this decorative shell in the water.

Another day we left the car and took a 6 Island Boat Trip.

We did a lot of swimming at various coves

and visited the Butterfly Valley.

One morning we went into two mosques. This one at Fethiye

Close-up of some of the beautiful tiles.

The mosque at Ova.

One

afternoon my son

and I had a Turkish Bath and massage.

It was so relaxing - something that I could easily get used to! ;) Something I did get used to were the delicious Turkish syrup cakes. I think this photo probably shows how much I liked them!! :)

That evening there was a belly dancer at the hotel and as part of her act she chose men from the audience to belly dance.

Guess who she chose to dress up - I laughed so much that I was crying! It was a case of belly dancing meet daddy dancing!!

Throughout the holiday we made lots of furry friends.

And some not-so-furry ones too.

This cat had 5 small kittens and my son snuck some meat from the restaurant for her.

The kittens grew quite fast over the 2 weeks that we were there.

On the last day of our holiday we went paragliding for the first time.

We had watched the paragliders throughout our holiday and decided it looked like fun. We rode in a Jeep to the top of Babadag at 6550' and then had to wait a while for the right weather conditions.

It was worth the wait, we loved paragliding!

I was amazed at how smooth the ride was and my pilot finished my ride off with a spiral down to Oludeniz.

What an amazing holiday, we experienced some new things and made some wonderful memories.

Turkey is truly beautiful.

June Garden

2011-06-28T08:16:00.007+01:00

After the heat and humidity of yesterday, it was lovely to spend the evening in the garden. I pruned and tidied the garden until 10pm; I would have carried on, but the light was starting to dim.

This morning I was up early and sorted the plants in the greenhouse. Ella had a look at the results of my efforts.

This Buddleia is looking gorgeous.

Ferns in the shady corner.

Clematis Minuet is in flower

My white Agapanthus is in bud.

I love the Allium seed heads shooting up like fireworks amongst the greenery.

And Maurice just loves to tan his white bits on the lawn! :)

Technological Age

2011-06-27T08:17:00.003+01:00

Yay, yesterday I finally joined the Age of Technology!

I went from this very basic, hand-me-down mobile to ...

... an iPhone. :))

There'll be no stopping me now. ;)

Cake, Cake and More Cake

2011-06-22T08:29:00.015+01:00

It has been a busy few days here at The Snail Garden. We have 3 birthdays within 11 days of each other - not very well planned!! :) We started off with my birthday and I have to share this card from my husband ...

I think it is probably the most romantic card that he has given to me. :))

Birthday equals cake and I spent part of the morning baking.

For my birthday treat I made these Whoopie Pies from a recipe I found here. Bang goes my diet!!

The next day my sweet boy turned sixteen.

After much searching I had finally found a 16th birthday card with Son on it.

Jay said "You are never too old for a helium balloon". :)

Of course there was a birthday cake ...

... with 16 candles.

I borrowed this idea from Sue at The Quince Tree.

Taking her advice I made my layers thinner, because we are greedy and like to eat a whole slice! :) My cheeky son quipped that it looked like a coming-out cake!!

I also made some Union Jack cupcakes for the birthday boy.

I'm never going to lose weight before my holiday!!!! ;)

After the Rain ...

2011-06-16T14:11:00.015+01:00

... blue patches of sky appeared fleetinglyand I took a few moments to enjoy the garden.

I love these allium seedheads

and the raindrops on the flowers.The clematis are beginning to bloom around the garden.The Cosmos that I grew from seed are also coming into flower. The detail in the centre of the single flowers is beautiful. This one is called "Candy Stripe".The bees are loving the Sweet William.Ella warmed her whiskers in the sunshine.Whilst Maurice's whiskers and paws twitched as he dreamed,in a warm patch of sunlight indoors.