Creating Sanctuary by Jessica Bloom

Available November 27th

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Creating Sanctuary is a first a truly beautiful book but is it also a wonderful reference for many levels of gardeners
 If you are interested in learning about creating a sacred space or even just a tranquil space in your backyard, this book has wonderful ideas for that. If your interests lie in creating a kitchen garden or an apothecary garden this book is for you. The way it is laid out and the writing encourages you to take what information you need to create your own place in your own time, and allows you to have a space that works for you. It's not a cut and dry blueprint, everyone has their own needs and this speaks to that part of a person that needs healing.
Bloom encourages the reader to use all of their senses, not just sight or smell but also touch and hearing and to use those senses to bring times to your garden that a uplifting and comforting to all five senses. She points out that we should be aware of how colors or scents affect us, is it a positive thought, do certain plants evoke memories?  I know I will always associate some plants with my grandmother and I find that I add those to my garden every year, just to feel close to her.
Other parts of the book discuss what kind of garden you are trying to create, all garden can be beautiful but why not create an area with a deeper meaning., Such gardens could be for memorials, spaces for healing, energizing you mind or just relaxation, a space to escape from the stress of the everyday world.
If you decide to delve into the world of plants for apothecary purposes or even kitchen purposes, the author shows how to harvest, preserve and collect seeds for the next growing season. Then there are recipes for teas, tinctures, essentials oils and lotions.
Over all a garden means so many different things to different people, and this book is a wonderful resource for creating your own Sanctuary. Becoming more attuned to the natural elements around us will help us to leave the stresses of daily life behind and enjoy our time just a bit more.  It is not just for the advanced gardener since it has information how to have an intentional design in mind, what to plant and where to harvesting your seeds. Creating Sanctuary is a great resource that I plan on adding to my library.

Thanks to Timber Press and Net Galley for an Electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Urban Arboreal - A Modern Glossary of City Trees

Release Date September 6th 

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Trees are one of those things that are so present in our lives but we blindly pass them everyday with no thought to their origin or age, we might notice simple things such as the change in leaf color, blooms or the absence of leaves. What if we slowed down and spent a bit more time taking in our surroundings, to be more present in our lives be more involved in our environment, what a difference it could make. This beautiful book will encourage you to become a Arboreal Tourist, to have a chance to touch history and be a part of something larger than yourself..

Urban Arboreal harkens back to victorian times with their engraved Botanical illustrations. Each of the 70 trees included in this coffee table size  is given with its location, common name and latin name. A bit of history is also included, some from when they were planted, the myths associated with them and how to find their locations. It helps the reader to gain a better understanding of the importance of the trees in our communities, and how they have touch so many lives before our own. They are so so endangered by urban sprawl, we must learn to recognize their importance as well as their grace to ensure that they are not taken from us forever, this book is a large positive step in that direction.

From New Zealand's Christmas tree, the crimson flowered Pohutukawa to the ancient Cotton Tree in Freetown, I was enchanted by all of the variations of trees living in urban areas. The drawings are exceptional and the stories are very diverse. This would be a wonderful gift for anyone interested in botany or travel, it covers both categories effortlessly.

Thanks to the Quarto Group and Net Galley for bringing this book to my attention and a free copy in exchange for an honest review

The Other Woman- By Sandie Jones

Release date August 21st

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5 Stars- Loved it!

WOW, If you haven't heard about "The Other Woman" make a note now and  make sure that it's at the top of your to read list. This is Sandie Jones Debut novel and it's not to be missed. Beprepared to stay up late to finish this book, it pulls you in and refuses to let go until the bitter end, and what an ending it is.

Sometimes love finds you when you least expect it, and Oh Boy has Emily found the man of her dreams; Adam. While she wasn't looking for a relationship, everything is moving along  so wonderfully,  then it's time to meet the family, Pammie, Adam's mother, It starts off well but too soon it is evident that Pammie will do whatever it takes to destroy their relationship. It's a love triangle like no other and the only real question is; who will be left standing at the end. Sometimes things are just not what you think even if it's standing right in front of you.

I was hooked from the beginning, wondering what truly horrible thing Pammie would dream up to cause a strain between Emily and Adam. The characters are well written, the story line pulls you in. I loved to hate Pammie,  and was always surprised  how each situation escalated and then couldn't wrap my brain around why he was so blind to his mother's antics. Thankfully Emily has a great support system in family and friends,and while they are only side characters they helped to bring the storyline to life. After all who hasn't run into someone that just seemed to not to like you at first blush.

The Other Woman is full of psychological suspense, twists and turns and a real shocker at the end. You'll have problems putting this one down until the very satisfyingly but shocking ending. I'm hoping that Sandie Jones has more stories to tell, while this one will be hard to beat! This seriously could be the next summer block buster!

Thanks to NetGalley for an Advanced Reader Copy for an honest and thoughtful review.

Women's Fiction

Wild Hunger by Chloe Neill

Just released August 14th 

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Wild Hunger is a spin off or second generation of the "Chicagoland Vampires" Series.

Elisa Sullivan has escaped Chicago to Study in Paris, partly for an education and partly to slip away from the notoriety for being the first child ever born to vampires. Her Parents, Merit and Ethan Sullivan are the focus of the original series and Wild Hunger is the first book in the Heirs of Chicagoland series, which introduces us to Elisa, as well as  Lulu the daughter of a very powerful witch, and Connor the son of the Apex to the Shifters.

The storyline starts with a literal bang and a then a jump, when Elisa is forced into the conflict between house and countries, on the eve of a trip home to attend a peace conference, hosted by her parents. Once she arrives home she is faced with one challenge after another, some personal and some public. Elisa is her own character, she does have a great blend of her parents characteristics; bold and fearless but she also views herself as something "other" or a monster, which can also be a throwback to how Merit viewed herself in the beginning of the original series. You are gifted with a small amount of back story between Connor and Elisa, which helps shape your understanding of their relationship. Connor is ever the tormentor but also a protector, and since they haven't seen each other in the last four years they have both matured and grown as people, which sets us the romance portion of the storyline.

A friend, Riley Sixkiller, who is also the former love interest of Lulu, is accused of murder, peace talks are side tracked and there are some not so friendly fae on the loose. Elisa and Conner must make choices between loyalty and friendship to save Chicago and themselves.

If you were a fan of the original series, you'll feel right at home, even though twenty plus years have passed since the ending of the original series, somethings have changed but the characters are the same. If you haven't had the pleasure of reading the original series you can still start here. There are lots of references to prior battles and characters but there are also enough details given that you won't be lost. But I do suggest to pick them up as soon as you can so you can truly enjoy this book. Chloe Neill knows how to write action but the romance, friendship and loyalty still shine through. Strong and smart female leads with some violence but an interesting read for most any age.

I personally can't wait for the next installment comes out, there is a pesky premonition to contend with afterall...

Much Thanks to Net Galley and the Publisher for the free copy in exchange for an honest review.

Year of Projects Week 8

Just a short post today, I have a finish, some progress and a pattern that I just couldn't resist (that I hope to get to in the next couple of years..).

First up is my finish unfortunately he's not on my list for the year but I'll take yarn moving out of the house any day. I had a preview last week and I finally found some eyes so I was able to finish him off and get him stuffed and ready to go. He should be landing in his new home next weekend!

He's such a happy guy!

On to the pattern that I just couldn't say no to. The Luna Blanket by Hailey Bailey.

If you're interested here's a link on Ravelry for it

I originally saw it on instagram and knew it had to be knitting, but nope it's crochet and my daughter loves luna moths, so I'm adding it to the ever growing pile of items I really want to work on. Hailey has some really cute items in her Etsy shop, bees, feathers and birds too. Now to find the right Luna color...

Did you know that last Wednesday the 15th was Granny Square day on instagram? I worked up a couple of squares but decided on this one..

All of the samples went into a bag for future blanket ideas!

 It so much fun to see the virtual blankets that people put together, and to think that so many squares traveled all over the world virtually on one day is a tribute to crafters and crochet.

I have made some progress on the CAL, square 2 is finished, it's a moss stitch so not much to see, but I'll be starting square 3 this week and I could be caught up by the time the next one is released.

My crafting time this week might be taken up with pumpkins, Canning ring and fabric, and maybe a crochet one or two, since fall is right around the corner and the orders are coming in. 

So I'll give a bit of a small update on the Cold sheep while I'm here!

Prior Count 1450 (out)

Intake 109 yards (boo but it was for the bee)

Bee  -545 yards

Granny Squares 10yds (guesstimate)

CAL Squares (2 sets of 2 squares)- 700 total (guesstimate)

=2596 yards out for week 8

Not too shabby, but I'm not counting the joining on the Peach Blossom yet so it should be going up 

Wishing you a very Crafty and Productive week!

Year of Projects Week 7

I've been a bit absent, not much crafting going on and then computer issues.
I managed to get the thing working earlier in the week and then when I was ready to post it wouldn't even turn on. I think it is a conspiracy between the yarn and the laptop. Not much headway with either one!

SO I'm a bit late but here is a bit of an update.

I did manage to add a few squares to the Peach Blossom Blanket, it seriously shouldn't take this long to get it together.

I was making sure of the layout again before I joined any more, this isn't a great shot but it was the one I'm using to keep me on track. I have completed a couple more of these.

May be one reason I'm not getting more done is that I have a bit too much help

Also added some more pompoms to my rug, again with the help..

I've gotten side tracked with a couple of orders, While it looks like a goldfish, or maybe I'm just craving cheese crackers, this guy will be a bee pillow. I'm hoping to have him delivered by next weekend. Just trying to find a little bigger eye then I can finish up the stinger end and attach the wings.

This guy is another order and will eventually be a butterfly, once the bees is done. I bought the book Beetles Bugs and Butterflies by Lalylala and I've been wanting to make a few but just haven't had much crafting time lately.

And since I haven't had much time to work on the projects on my list I had to start something new..Well it had been on my radar, but I wasn't going to start it until later in the year. This is block one of Stitch Story CAL by Heather who blogs at Keep Calm and Crochet on UK. I'm a bit behind and to make it worse (better) I decided to do two blankets, both for Christmas Presents. She is only on Block 3 and if you are interested it wouldn't be hard to catch up on or save for later.

I've decided it's time to move a few things along, weight included, so I'm spending at least an hour at the gym each night, add canning season and work, the crafting is falling a bit behind. Which doesn't stop the requests from coming in. I'll be working on pumpkin items soon and I hope to get back to some of my list before too long.  The cold Sheep is still on track and I'll post numbers next week. 

And did I mention that this Wednesday  August 14th is Granny Square Day? Surgal27 on instagram curated the idea on instagram a few years ago but this year it is being passed on to Simplycrochetmag. If your on instagram and are interested in playing along, just crochet a granny square, take a full frame picture and post with the #grannysquare2018. I'm working on a couple of different colors and designs, I'll be sure to post them all on my blog but only my favorite will make it to the farm2ewe instagram account. In years past squares were combined to make a virtual blanket, it's so much fun to be part of something that is enjoyed all over the world.

Thanks for sticking with me and if you're looking to join the Year of Projects there is no time like the present!

Have a wonderfully crafty week!

Improper Cross Stitch by Holly Pierson Cox

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Like many crafts, Cross Stitch is finding it's way with a new generation and Improper Cross Stitch is exactly what many people have been looking for. I've been doing crafts since I was allowed to (not) run with scissors and I would have loved this quirky book back then as much as I do now.

It begins with a great introduction to Cross Stitch, the standard how-to for stitches and what the count on fabric means, along with how to read charts. So this book works for the very basic beginner to a crafter that has been stitching for a while. There are full color photos alongside the charts, which helps a beginner to see what a finished project should look like. There are 35 + projects so there has to be something for everyone.

I received an ARC of the book and it contained just a couple of charts, "Grammer Police" is my favorite, I'd definitely do that one for my mom and daughter, and there may be some included that aren't for all audiences but nothing that I saw would preclude me from buying it for any ages that were interested. Most projects seemed like ones that could be completed in a short amount of time, which is all most of us have for crafting lately. After all it can be fun to be a bit improper!

I'll be on the look out for this book during the holiday season. I think it would make a great stocking stuffer or quick gift for anyone looking to get into Cross Stitch or a quick craft with a bit of attitude!

Thanks to Net Galley and the author for an ARC of the book, it has just come out on August 7th so make sure to check it out on Amazon and in your local book store, If nothing else you'll get a great laugh and just maybe you'll end up with a few presents of your own. As a personal aside, this is available on Kindle, which is the version I had and I would spend a bit more and get the hardback. I have other craft books on the kindle and it can be difficult flipping back and forth to find the right pages to refer to when working a project. 

The Witch of Willow Hall- By Hester Fox

Available in Trade Paperback on October 3rd 2018


The Witch of Willow Hall is a Victorian Gothic Romance that hits all of the right notes; a society scandal, family drama and just a touch of the spiritual to give it a twist.

The Montrose family though well off is forced to flee Boston for New Oldbery, due to a scandal and a family secret long kept hidden. The family has three daughters, Catherine, who is concerned only with herself, Bookish and quiet Lydia and Emeline, who at eight is full adventure and excitement for new discoveries and a older son Charles who is discussed but never seen.. Upon arriving at Willow Hall the dark overtones are set out quickly, the girls mother is forlorn, Catherine, the cause of the upheaval is dismissive and nasty, Lydia ever the peace keeper tries to lighten the mood, and Emeline dashes off to find adventure. .Soon after their arrival in  Old Newbery  Lydia happens quite by accident to meet John Barrett in the woods near an old mill, he starts out very charming and soon turns subdued. He turns out to be  Mr. Montrose's new business partner and has secrets of his own.  Lydia hears wailing in the night and sees a figure walking through her garden, she also has a way with herbs, these revelations all lead back to a mysterious family member from the past who was hung in Salem for being a witch. There is more than one secret that is endangering the family, and as they come to light it is up to Lydia to make the correct choices and the sacrifices to save her family.  But just like a heroine in one of Lydia's books she perseveres and  is rewarded with her knight and a happily ever after.

I was entranced by the storyline and actually read it in one sitting, late into the night I might add,. I just couldn't put it down. For this to be Ms. Fox's debut novel, I am sincerely impressed. I'll be looking to see more of her work in the future. The characters are well written you feel their joy, their pain and how society's rules could make or break a family are very well displayed. The storylines work so well together and I would love to read more about the Montrose and Barrett families in the future. The otherworldliness is subtle and only adds to the depth of the characters and their struggles.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Sandstorm- By James Rollins

Sandstorm by James Rollins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

First book in the Sigma Force series, I haven't read them in order and have enjoyed them but I', finally filling in the gaps. It helps to read them in order since it gives you a greater understanding of how the characters got to where they are now.
James Rollins loves science, legends and the unknown and it really shows in his books.

The story starts with a storm and a freak explosion in the Museum of Natural History in London which then sets off a series of events. A race to discover what caused the massive explosion which leads to an unexpected scientific discovery with serious consequences for world. This is the first investigation for a CIA operative, Painter Crowe with the newly created "Sigma Force." This starts in London and then into the vast Saudi desert in search of a lost city. Secrets are uncovered and theories are made and then discarded for even more obscure facts, religious and scientific. The story line is fast paced, has a small cast of main characters whose personalities cause them to be larger than life. It's your normal Action Adventure but with a bit more. Fun and educational read.
Then when you reach the end and expect it to be all an adventure from the author's imagination he goes on to educate you about the real science behind the story complete with references. There's Always a bit more to Rollins books, than a good story line.
Some romance, some history, a lot of action, something for everyone.


View all my reviews

Samhain Secrets by Jennifer David Hesse

It's Friday the 13th!!! What a better time than this to post this review!

It's Halloween season and Keli has a lot going on, she's finally made Junior partner in the law firm, it's also Samhain for Keli's Wiccan side, a former client is haunted in her new home and the aunt Keli has always hoped to meet has gone missing. When Keli is notified that her aunt has been killed, she steps up again to solve the mystery, with a some help from her friends.

This is the fourth book in the Wiccan Wheel Mystery series and Hesse can truly paint a scene for the reader. Just like the cover you'll feel the crisp night air and shiver in the graveyard with Keli while she's closing in on the ghostly sounds coming from a tomb. The characters are well rounded and the story rolls along a fast pace, it takes a couple of different storylines and ties them together well with an uplifting ending. Strong. smart female characters and a good community storyline..

The story line cover all kinds of topics, friendship, balancing work and personal relationships, and a mystery to boot. It's a fun quick read and I think it will appeal to a wide variety of readers. I had not read the first three books, but didn't have any problems diving in and enjoying the story. The ending leaves you  ready for the next book and hints at some new directions for Keli, I can't wait to see where she goes.

This book is due to be released late in August just time to coincide with the fall/Holiday season in the story.  Put it on your list, you'll want to pick this one up and be on the look out for the first three books in the series, I know I am.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) from NetGalley in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.

Famous Chickens!

Amazon       Barnes and Nobles      Author's Website

If you love chickens, have a backyard flock or wish you did this is a coffee table book for you!
This book is full of enchanting pictures of Kathy Shea Mormino's flock, beautiful backyard and coops.Ms. Mormino is the self described Chicken Chick, who gives tips on having a healthy backyard flock. She has also been an advocate for backyard chickens in communities for many years.

This book however is not a how to book, it's really a "look how beautiful my Girls (and Roos) are" and I totally agree.  Kathy's Chicken's have been facebook and Instagram stars for a while and now she's sharing them with the rest of the world in book format! The adoring public has followed along with their ups and downs and now they are immortalized on paper.

Beautiful scenes are captured in the pages and the ever iconic Rachel is even given her own chapter!
You'll fall instantly in love the Araucanas and Frizzles, Marans and Cochins (think fuzzy feet).
The seasonal photography is breathtaking and it will make you want to pull up a chair and visit with them for a while.

She starts with the littles and seriously what's cuter than a baby chick? I personally have chickens and I can tell you that they have personalities from day one. It's an amazing thing to watch them grow from fuzzy little poofs to mini dinosaurs with their own distinct personalities.

Later chapters are for the girls and another for the boys. As I the perused the pages I saw many expressions that I have seen in my own flock. Scarlet steals my heart, she looks like our Martha and even has the same attitude, I wonder if it has something to do with being a redhead?

And of course there is a whole chapter on the Fluffy Butts, who doesn't love to see those bloomers?

Even better, if you are considering a flock of your own, there is an index listing every bird and their breed along with their name in the back. That way if you find The One, you'll know exactly what to ask for when at that next Chicken swap!

Chickens have so much personality and Kathy Shea Mormino has captured some of it in a most enjoyable way. This book would be great for kids, and adults alike. It is a picture book with some small amount of commentary. If you have someone on your gift list missing the farm life or dreaming of their own flock this book is a must.

I received a copy from Netgalley for an honest review.
This review is my own work and my own opinion.

Week 2 Year 8

Computer is still refusing to cooperate, so this post was delayed.

I managed to get a few things done this week. Worked on one project off of the list and another that was an order for a friends store. 

I'll start with the order, these don't take that long to do but my crochet time was cut a bit short this week due to some travel and pumpkin seed planting.

These Diva Dishcloths will be sent out this week to Up Beet Market in Wilmington. It's a vegan speciality store but she is also buying from local crafters, mainly kids items and other household things that support the lifestyle. She's been open just over a month and sales have been great. I'm always excited when someone can follow their dreams! So 12 dishcloths can be added to my list for July.

I had made a set of play veggies for her and they've flown out the door. I knew they had been popular but I didn't realize she was almost out. I had worked on Mushroom this week.

Three of the four that I sent. I guess I should have done a few more.

This is the display after the four mushrooms were added! I'll be working on veggies the next few days I guess..

 I did manage to work on one of the items on my list. The Unicorn Ripple. These colors are so much brighter than the actual colors. It's really pastel in person. And why in the world did I think single crochet ripples would be fun? I'll be happy to see the last row on this project.

While I didn't make much progress on the list I did make some progress on the cold sheep this week

Intake 0

12 Dishcloths -1440 yards

Mushrooms- 10 yards total (guestimate)

=1450 yards out for week 1

I'm not counting the progress on the ripple, I guess I could if I weighed the skeins but since I had the yarn in my stash I'll just count the total once it's finished. Easier that way and it keeps me moving items out!

Thanks for stopping by! I'm hoping for more progress next week!

Beginner's Garden- Book Review

Find  it here Amazon BN




Beautiful and informative book for anyone who has or wants a garden.,
I've been gardening on a small scale for a long time but there are always things I have questions about and need an easy answer.. Not only will this book encourage you to pick you a seed catalogue or two but it helps you get a good understanding of what to grow, when to try to grow it and where to grow it too. Then there are the recipes, great ideas on what to do with all of the wonderful things that come out of your garden.

The book is split into seasons, so no matter when you pick it up there is relevant information . This book shows you how to garden with the basics, no need to run out and spend lots of money or to even have a large amount of space. Great ideas on companion plantings and container gardens.
No matter how much time or space you have, with this book you'll be ready to start growing your own food

I'm always asked what is a good book for someone with little or no experience in gardening or any kind of growing for that matter. While there are lots of good books out there, I would recommend this one. It's practical, step by step information. No pushy you need this expensive tool or gadget and if you want a garden from a couple of containers on your patio to a large plot this book gives you lots of great directions.

I received a free arc of this book for an honest review.

Week 1 Year 8 of a Year of Projects

So it looks like a new laptop will be in my future, it's conked out on my again this weekend. No warning, just poof, it turns off. I bought a battery the last time and it seemed to be fixed but no luck. So I'm a bit late again this week but I had to get the list up for year 8 week 1 of the Year of Projects.

I've had some finishes but I've had a lot of startitis too. So I've decided the best way to clear some of those bags that are hanging on my craft room door and to bust some of the stash too, I'm going to concentrate on working on some of the old outstanding projects I have literally hanging around.

I think this is a fairly good representation of the items. I did manage to finish up two last year and I'm hoping to see all of these this year. If I run across some others I'll add them to the list.

While I need to see the end of these, I know I have a hard time NOT starting something else. So I'm going to limit the new starts to one at a time and only if a project gets marked off of the list first. Hopefully I'll have some special orders or requests too.

Also I know me and I'll never be able to work on one project until it's done so I'll try to do a bit on each each week, or at least a few.. Thankfully it will help the cold sheep process too, since I have a majority of the yarn bought already for these projects!

Ya'll have to keep me on track, I am already thinking about what the new projects should be!

Sigh that quilt down there, yes the "jar quilt" the top is done and it was supposed to be a going to college gift, well she graduated in 2008.. The top is almost complete, she even brings it up every now and then, her birthday has passed for the year but maybe I should shoot for 2020, she'll be 30..lol

Year of Projects Year 8 July 2018-2019

This is the year of finally finishing projects...and I'm still working the cold sheep plan.

Current WIP- Crochet
Peach Blossom Blanket from this spring 2018
Bee Hive Blanket- Spring 2018
Unicorn Ripple- May 2018
Pom Pom Rug- April 2018
Wood Land Animal hats- November 2017
Whale Shark- Gift for E- from only a year ago
Carrot Snuggle sack- 75% done- Spring 2017
Flower Garden Blanket- Started 2016
Cardigan for Me -Started 2016
Sidewalk Blanket- started 2015

Current WIP in Cross Stitch
Moose Welcome Cross Stitch
Lizzy Kate- Be who you are
Log cabin Quilts
Lizzy Kate- Dog Lessons
Lizzy Kate- Cat Lessons

Sewing Projects WIP
Soot Pillows for E
Project bags
Animal applique pillows

Quilt Projects WIP
Jar Quilt for E-2005
Wolf Panel- quilt 2008
Log cabin panel- quilt 2006

Old Wool Projects -
Bags of Fleece- Wash/Process/Dye
Spin roving bought from Heelside Farms
Get the wheel out and do some spinning

Thanks for stopping by! We're just starting a new year so it's a great time to join the Year of Projects! You can find us here on Ravelry!

Year of Project week 52

Goodness this year has flown, I mean both the calendar and the year of projects too!
I'm struggling to keep up, is it really going to be July this weekend?!

I'm a bit late, did I mention I'm a bit behind, this post was supposed to be a Sunday post but Sunday ended up being berry picking/ jam canning day and I was just too out of it afterwards to get a post together. But I had to make sure that I had a end of the year post on the books. I checked back and I did manage to post for the first week of this year and a few in between so I had to make sure that I had one for the ending too!

I've managed a bunch of starts, and a few finishes this year.
Here's a couple that I managed to take pictures of before they were sent off.

Some of these have been around a while some started and finished in relatively quick turnarounds.

I think that the first and last picture were the oldest projects that finally get finished up and boy was I glad to see the end of the ribbon stitch blanket. It was most definitely a UFO..

I've started way too many blankets this year so that is going to be my main focus for next year. I reviewed  my 2017-2018 list and decided that  I need to take a long serious look at it and see if I'm still in love with any of those projects..

I did some pruning of my other crafts, cross stitch and quilting, while I'm not ready to give all of it up some things just don't interest me anymore and they were moved on to make room for projects I really hope to finish at some point.

Hopefully I'll be able to add some of these to the finishes column during year 8!

If nothing else I can say it's been a colorful year..

Thanks for letting me fall in and out of the year of projects and I'm hoping to stay on a better track for year 9! If you'd like to be a Yopper too check us out on Ravelry!

Year of Projects Week 51..

Week 51! Oh my goodness, I started out on track, fell off, got started back good and then the battery dies in my laptop, got it replaced, then the internet dies.. It's a been a rough couple of weeks on the computer front!


Can't say I've gotten a lot of craft done either, but it has been a busy time.

My daughter's best friend has opened a Vegan specialty store on the coast and I've been busy canning and creating items for her. Over the last month I've managed to can a s bushel of pickles in various flavors, make two kinds of strawberry jams, Squash pickles, a bushel of pickled beets, 1/2 bushel of dilly beans, Brussels Sprouts, taco radishes, and other pickled vegetables. Whew.. it's been a bit crazy..lol

But they are so pretty!! Pickles Beets.. so glad to be done with these for the year..

On the crafty side, I sent down a set of small vegetables, and a couple of pillow size veggies.

Some of the smaller veggies.. which I have been told are all sold already..

Pillow sized first order.

After these disappeared so quickly I got another order for Broccoli..Yes Broccoli

So I did one along the lines as the little one shown above..

That was a serious amount of yarn for those "ruffles" lol. But it will be on it's way to a new home next weekend. I hope she loves it! These have been a lot of fun but I'm ready to get started back on some normal sized items. I have more than I'd like to admit waiting for me to get back and finish them up! 

My WIP is a bit longer than I realized when I started working on the list for the upcoming year! It's time to move some of these things into the DONE pile, before I pull out any new projects. Although it was nice to do the small project and move on to something new so quickly. I'm also trying to not to over load my list with lots of new ideas, which is way harder than it sounds! I spend way too much time on Ravelry and Pintrest. But in my defense I have a serious yarn problem and why does it seem I never have what I need for a new project?

That's me for the week, and it is a bit late but it's here. I need to get started on a year of project round up and a list for the new "year" this week, wish me luck that I don't fall down the rabbit hole of new patterns an ideas before I get it wrapped up..

If you love yarn and projects, Ravelry is for you and it's almost time for a new Year of Projects. You'll find us here on Ravelry, we post every Sunday with an update on projects new and old and the year starts in July, so It's a great time to jump on board!

Thanks for stopping by. Happy Crafting!

Americana Rag Wreath DIY

Summer is almost here and while it is time for all kinds of celebrations it is also time for remembrances too. This Americana Rag Wreath is a great way to show off your Patriotism from your front door! It's simple, fun and brings lots of charm to all of your outside (or inside) get togethers this summer.

What you'll need:

1 14 Inch Foam Wreath

3/4 a yard of 6 different fabrics* (Mine were 44 inches wide) 

*You can pick more or less depending on your design groupings, but take into account how the colors and patterns look together. Complementary colors are best, I went with a Star theme and added a few stripes to give it more interest.

Start by cutting the fabric into 1.5 inch strips 14 inches long. Strips can be wider or longer, but this is the size that worked best for me. I liked the fullness of the longer strips, and a 1.5 of a inch width made a substantial knot. 

Once you have all of your strips cut you'll start tying them on to your wreath, by sliding the strips  under the wreath and tie on top using a double knot.  I alternated colors randomly and the location of the knots for aesthetic purposes as well as the way it "filled in" the wreath.

As you are tying the strips on, be sure to push them together so that it gives it a bunched appearance and ensures that the wreath is completely covered.

You can trim the lengths to make them more uniform or leave them as they are. I snipped a couple that were a bit out of hand..

The back is just as pretty as the front! 

You can see how I pushed  the strips them together for a fuller look. 

You could also add a short piece of ribbon or wire for hanging.

 This a great summer craft, it is even kid friendly. 

This would work for any season or holiday with a corresponding fabric.

Thanks for stopping by and I wish you and your's a very happy Memorial Day and a wonderful Summer full of Crafts and Sunshine.

If you love this idea but just don't have the time to make one for your home, This wreath or a version of it is available in my Etsy Shop, Farm2Ewe.

  

Bookish Tuesday- Sky in the Deep

I'll start with saying that I will pick up a young adult book not really knowing what to expect, some are really good and some are okay. This one while short was a truly great read. I admit, I'm a viking fan, I watch the shows and I enjoy the storyline. When I saw this on goodreads getting up and down ratings I figured I should check it out. I seriously read it one day. And can I say as much as I loved it, I'm sorry that's its a stand alone novel. I'd love to see more of the Aska and Riki clans.

The story line follows traditional viking processes; family being very important, battles to the death and sacrifices to their gods. The Aska and the Riki are two clans that share an area, one in the mountains and one on the coast, and a history of a god fueled war. Every five years they meet in battle  and everyone fights. Men, women and young teens are trained in the warrior lifestyle and honor to your clan is everything.

In Eelyn's first battle season her brother, Iri is wounded and left for dead, however he is rescued by his adversary's family and nursed back to health. Five years later, Eelyn again back in battle sees her brother and is captured by Fiske, the person who caused her brothers injuries and also saved his life.  As a captive she learns much more about herself, her brother and the war that has plagued the clans for centuries.

The interactions between characters is well written and feels true. Eelyn's feelings of betrayal from her brother, the animosity between the clans, the shame of being caught and losing honor. The world building makes you feel like you could visit this spot and see the beauty and simplicity of the way they lived. Day to day tasks involve you in the life of the clan, it's battles yes but it's also the coming home and building lives after the battles.

Over all it's a fast read that moves along smoothly, while it starts with a battle and ends with a battle, there is so much more in between. I give four stars only because I wanted more, of the story line towards the end. Wonderful building of the process and then the addition of another enemy but the change to fighting together was a bit sudden. 

Bookish Tuesday- Lola by Melissa Scrivner

For a debut novel, crime with a strong female protagonist non the less, this book was more than I expected and I'm hoping for a series.



While this isn't a book I would have normally gravitated towards, it was recommended to me by a friend, It was well worth the recommendation and I hope you'll give it a try too.

Lola, is a twenty six year old girlfriend of Garcia the leader of the Crenshaw Six, or is he? The rough and violent gang is up an coming one on the streets of south central LA. For a small group they have managed to build quite a reputation in the area, and are working to expand their territory. But it's not Garcia with all of the ideas and drive it's Lola.

She's a brilliant strategist with a passion to succeed, but due to her situation she would never be taken serious, so she plays the part of the submissive girlfriend while protecting the gang from betrayals and violence. She's torn between helping herself, and doing whats best for her neighborhood and family. She is responsible for a younger brother ,who tests her at every turn and endangers himself and others.

The Crenshaw Six becomes involved in a drug transaction that isn't at all what it seems and then they are pressured into making it right, when it wasn't right to begin with, It's a series of cat and mouse transactions between big players with this small gang in the middle. The situation spins out of control and while Lola is trying to keep the gang alive she is also protecting a neighbors child from the realities of her own childhood.

I'd warn readers that there is violence, quite bloody violence, and language but don't let that keep you from picking up this book. It's gritty and not a feel good read but it is worth your time.

Bookish Tuesday -Hunted by Meagan Spooner

Amazon B&N Kobo

I am of a generation before Beauty and the Beast was a Disney Fairy Tale, the version was I given as a child had the snarling dangerous beast, even the pictures scared me, let along the story. However it was one I wanted to read even if it caused nightmares and made hide under the covers at every strange noise outside my window.

This story is of the older version of the tale with a Russian influence. The details are gritty and very true to the time frame. While it does have a romantic flair but closer to the original tale than the watered down version we are giving our children today. I had picked a rainy cool day to read this book and it was the perfect setting for this tale. I almost read it one sitting and hated that I had other things that had to be done, I was so wrapped up in the storyline.

It is a young adult novel but it reads like a fairy tale. Beauty is a strong female character and not so winsome as Belle. She's been allowed by her father to break out of the stereotypical female role, by being allowed to hunt, think for herself and expect a sutor that will treat her as an equal.  Yeva, who's nickname from her father is Beauty, is faced with a the dilemma of staying with her sisters, who aren't the typical evil sister of Disney, or venturing into the woods for her missing father. She chooses the woods to find her father and he fathers killer. She find not exactly what she is looking for but more than she would have expected.

The storyline is filled with duality, Man or Beast, Woman or Hunter, Dragon or Lady, what is expected to make you happy or what will really make you happy. If you are interested in folklore, fairy tales or strong female leads, I'd recommend you add this to your list!

It's good for all ages, some blood and gore but nothing exaggerated and no "adult content", totally suitable for younger readers.