Bookish Tuesday- Wolf Blood By Steve Morris

Find this on Amazon or request from your local Book Store


Think American Werewolf in London minus the American but redone with a 21st century twist! There's no waiting around for the action to start, from the beginning you're into the quick paced storyline and it just escalates from there.

A Scientist, Norman Wiseman, with a wild idea has traveled to the Carpathian Mountains to do a bit of research into the legend and genetics of werewolves of all things. While we don't get a lot of back story on the research, since it has already happened when the story starts, a bit more does get revealed during the progression of the book, the doctor isn't long for this world but his students and test subjects do keep the story moving along. 

The students have become infected and after the first full moon they've turned on their professor, and once he's been digested the three then return to London. One of the students, Leanne takes up the reins as the leader of the pack, highly intelligent and ready to make over the world in her own image one bite at a time. She and her fellow interns,Adam and Samuel,  set plans in motion for the Werewolf Apocalypse.

Wolf Blood is the first in a series and there are multiple lines that intertwine and follow parallel to the main story line, including a headmaster who devours instead of disciplines, the police force dealing with the dismembered bodies left behind by the building pack, a high priced call girl/thief, a group of very diverse kids who become unlikely friends and the skeptical public, who enable Leanne's plans to move along quickly as the victims travel and spread the horror.

If your looking for a quick paced story line that will make you check that dark corner twice to ensure you're really alone this book should be on your tbr list. The second book in the series; Wolf Moon will be released very soon so gobble this one up and get ready for the next installment.

As for me I'll be over here on the edge of my seat in a well lighted area awaiting my copy of Wolf Moon.

I received a copy of this book for free from the author on a librarything giveaway in exchange for an honest review.

filed under- Urban fantasy, fantasy, horror, paranormal thriller,

Year of Projects Year 7 Week 39

Ack! It's  been a busy week, who am I kidding, it's been a busy month at work and at home, so my craft time has been severely limited. The majority of my craft time has been dedicated to yarn but only because I'm filling orders for Yarn Wrapped Carrots   and Stuffed Bunnies with their pompom tails. Not that I'm complaining but the items on my "I want to make this" List is getting longer by the day!

I worked a bit on my "Bee Hive Blanket" and then I was tagged in a group that makes "Angel Dresses" by a friend in California. They were in need of hats, blankets and Angel pins. I requested the patterns they were using, it came in late yesterday afternoon. In the enormous stash I had some pastel baby yarn so I'm working on getting a box out to them soon. These hats are so tiny, this is the small and medium sizes requested.

This was the extent of crochet this week...

It was timely, since the kiddo's birthday is in March and we try to do something for kids around this time. She was a 32 week preemie and I know how crazy it can feel to have to leave your baby at the hospital. She is a very healthy 20 something now and I am eternally grateful to everyone you stepped up and helped me through it. In years past we have done blankets for the linus project and the NICU department where she was born. While this organization is helping parents who are dealing with grief, I think it is an important opportunity to help.

The calendar may say Spring but the weather channel still says winter! However I did finally get my Easter wreath together and get it on the door. I'm late but my neighbors still have up St. Pat's decor. So I guess I'm not so far behind!

This was my work in progress and it was one day that the sun came out! (actual Colors)

Finished wreath and cloudy skies! ( I think winter is bringing the blue out more..lol)

The weekend did start out great, the Princess and I did the "Bunny Walk" with our local Trail Hounds group. 

Ready to get going with her friends!

walking with those ears, I wish I had a group shot!

                                                             After the walk and we still had ears!

This is a short work week for me and I'm hoping to be able to double down on some of the ongoing projects. I've found a couple of things I just really need to start..lol, BUT I've made a point that I can't start one more thing until one goes out. It's just so hard with all of the great ideas floating around out there!

If you're needing ideas check out what the other Yopper's are up to and get busy on some projects of your own!

Bookish Tuesday- Year One by Nora Roberts

Find Year One at Amazon or your local Books Store

One Drop of Blood and the Doom Starts!

Not your run of the mill Nora Roberts books, this is the first in a new series that creates a whole new world. All of  the normal twist, turns, magic and wonder of a Nora Roberts storyline. I started this book at lunch and hated to have to put it down to head back to work, but managed to finish it early the next day. While I loved the story line and the masses of characters, the time lines seemed disjointed and jumped strangely so that a couple of times I thought I might have missed something in the telling. I did have an Advanced readers copy so this could be corrected in the final version. Over all it is a beginning to series and there is a lot of world building going on and I can't wait for the next book to see where it leads. Most of Ms. Roberts' series generally fall into the threes I'm hoping for much more story than three books could give.

Ross MacLeod was on Holiday at his family's farm, pheasant hunting and with one drop of blood he manages to start a chain of events that will in quick order change the very fabric of the world. This is a dystopian storyline about a virus that kills the majority of people very quickly, the few who are lucky enough survive don't escape unchanged. Those left behind to face to this new world order with failing electrical systems, food shortages and other dark dangers are awaking with new and sometimes wonderful powers. Some of those of course are full of light and wonder and some are dark and dangerous.

The large cast of characters include Max and Lana, who barely escape New York City, Fred, Chuck and Arlys; Techies and journalist who are trying to spread the word to help others and Jonah and Rachel who are both in the medical field combine their skills to help a pregnant mom who has lost everything but her twins. You are right in the middle of these narrow escapes and they somehow all end up together working towards recreating what was and fending off the others who want to rule it all. All have an important part to play but the most important is Lana who will be the mother to "The One".

The ending will leave you gasping, crying and wanting more, just like a great series should.

Thanks to the publisher St. Martin's press for a Free ARC given away on Goodreads. 




Filed under- Paranormal, Fantasy, Suspense, Thriller, Urban Fantasy

Theme Reveal A to Z Challenge- Upcycling for your Home and Garden

A to Z Challenge.Com

I decided to do the A to Z Challenge again..I completed one year and almost completed another on another blog. It popped up in my email again this year and I thought I would try it again on this blog. I've got my ideas A to Z ready to go and I'm planning a bit better this year and hope to have the posts written and scheduled before the end of the month. I thought about crafts and different patterns, but I decided on something else that caught my attention recently, upcycling. While I have always been a fan of auctions, flea markets and such, I haven't had the time to put into it. I'm at a good point where I can make some more time for myself. And if I end up with some really cool pieces for the new house then that's a win win right? I admit I've been a bit junk drunk lately, making plans for my new place that I haven't even found yet. 

So I'll be starting with A  with ideas for using Armoires and ending with Z for Zippers, lots of craft ideas, storage pieces, and art. 

Check the list on the A to Z Challenge and mark your favorites and come back each day in April for new and exciting ideas. The first post will hit April 1st.

Year of Projects Week 38 Year 7

I've managed four finishes this week,three smalls and one larger, two of them are crochet, one sewing one sewing related.

The first was a pin cushion that once was part of an arrangement from when I was born. My mom is cleaning out some cabinets and thought I might like to have it. I thought I would make it into something useful, it's now a great addition to my sewing table.

This is my second,larger finish I might have been up past midnight getting it done but it was ready for my daughter's birthday!

I've done a bit more digging and I have uncovered the cardigan that I started a couple of years ago, so along with all of the other projects I'm working on I'm going to add that back to the rounds.

Finished a couple of more squares and a hexi's , I might start joining a few this week. 

Another thing I dug up was a set of Play Veggies, I had made a few items and I always meant to go back and add a couple of more but it was put in a box and forgotten. I found it and I've managed to whip up a broccoli and a mushroom, I'm contemplating an apple, radish or tomato and maybe some grapes? But once it's done it will be added to my Etsy along with it's super cute market bag. 

In order to help get back into building this blog, I decided to do the blogging from A to Z Challenge in April. You pick a pick a topic and post every day in April except for Sundays, using the letter of the day. I'm going with upcycling products in new and fun ways. The main website has a list that can be sorted by categories and themes, so you can find what you're interested in without having to go through a ton of blogs, as of now there are 351 blogs participating. 

Thanks for stopping by! Be sure to check out what all of the other Yoppers are up to this week too!

Vintage Friday_ Upcycled Pin Cushion

Recently my mom has been going through things and passing along items, large and small, she thinks I'd like to have. I think this is an effort to cheer me or maybe a way to make sure I get the story behind things she has held on to over the years.

This is one of the latest treasures to be sent to my house. It was part of an arrangement that was given to my mom when I was born, from my Godparents  I think I've been told. I'll just say it's vintage and leave it at that!

Cute and Simple, I can't believe she held on to it this long

 I'm not much on Knick Knacks and I'm in the process of relocating so I'm trying to find a purpose for sentimental things other than just taking up space. So I thought this would make a great addition to my craft room as a pin cushion. My first challenge was finding some fabric that didn't clash or over power the subtle colors and style. I wanted to keep the vintage feel of it so anything too ornate wouldn't work. No big patterns either since it's pretty small.

I settled for this simple dot in a pale greenish blue. I guess pink would have worked better but I'm not much of a fan of pink. So I'll stick with the contrast. I cut out a square of 4.5 x4.5 and added a hand full of  stuffing. Wrapped it all up and did a quick stitch to make a ball. Inserted it into the bassinet and used a bit of hot glue on each side to keep it from shifting around. 

I fits right into my sewing area, and all I really need now is some better lighting and time to finish some of the projects half done! 

I've seen these upcycled pincushions done with teacups and small tins too. I'm a fan of turning something old into something new, especially when it is something useful. So now I have a new pin cushion and wonderful memories to encourage my crafty endeavors. 

Bookish Tuesday- Better Than New by Nicole Curtis

Find Better than New at Amazon or your local Bookstore

If you’re looking for a “How To” book this isn’t it. If you’re a Nicole Curtis Fan, looking for a great memoir or need a bit of uplifting reading this is for you.

From the First, Nicole Curtis had a passion for doing more and she turned that into a thriving business rehabbing old homes, not just flipping them for profit but bringing them back to their original glory. While the book touches on some of her homes, it’s really about the woman behind the homes. While we all watch Nicole on HGTV from our couches with stars in our eyes, it’s even more inspiring to see she really is human, just like us. We can all take something away from reading about her ups and downs and he ability to face challenges head on. She tells of lessons she learned as a single mom working multiple jobs, fight for what she knew in heart to be right, then also the heartbreak of being let down by the people she trusted most, something that anyone could relate to.

While reading this book you’ll feel like you’re sitting on the porch of one of those great homes having a conversation with Nicole. She shares personal insights into her life and motivations. It answers questions you never knew you had about the show and its star.

It is wonderfully written and the behind the scenes pictures only add to the charm. If you’re a fan great,if you’ve never heard of Rehab Addict that works too, this is a trip through Nicole Curtis’ life and how she became the person she is today. A empowering read for not just women but anyone who is thinking about following a dream or wanting to just try something new. It’s not always rosy but it’s well worth the trouble.

Year of Projects Week 37

Not a whole lot of Crochet happened this week, but there has been some crafting done.
I'll start with my Peach Blossom blanket, I've managed to finish off a few squares. I'm happy with the color combination of shades of pink and the Grey. They work up quickly so I'll be thinking about borders soon. I think it should be a bit lacy but we'll see how it goes.

I've recently moved it's a temporary spot while I work on getting back to a farm of my own, so I'm missing my bees and getting the garden ready. even thought Spring tried to come early, winter has taken back over here on the East Coast anyway. I've been working on Spring Colors and then I just started a few hexis in a very happy yellow that I'm going to turn into a "bee" Blanket or lovey.

I found this almost granny type hexi on an older posting on the One loop short blog. I love the flowerish details. I'm going to do one more round in a darker yellow.

Earlier in the week I posted about my Yarn Carrots and I'm almost done with my Bunnies. Neither crochet projects but they both have some yarn content. 

I love the pom pom tails. I'll be adding some ribbons and maybe a nose with pink dmc thread.

The last project that related to yarn is something for my new space too. I've been looking at rugs, mainly crochet rugs but then I ran into pompom rugs. I received a pompom maker a while back and I have been putting it to good use. I've picked out my yarn and got the foundation but that's as far as I have gotten so far. Hopefully I'll have a great update next week for all of these projects next week.

So that's been my week. Check in with all of the other Yopers and I'll be getting back into the project pile! Have a great week!

Easter Crafts- Yarn Wrapped Carrots

I've been wanting to do a bit of different decorating for easter, a bit more than plastic eggs and bunny ears. Although those do have their place. I had been trying to come up with something for a centerpiece or something cute for a wreath. Then it hit me, Carrots! Yes Carrots they can be easter but they are spring too. After all I've grown my fair share of them in the late winter/early spring months.

So I did a google search for carrot ideas and came up with two I'm definitely doing this year and one I'd like to keep on the back burner for now. I'll let it simmer and see how much time I end up with before the holiday gets here.

My two projects are yarn wrapped carrots and stuffed fabric carrots, plus I'm sewing some bunnies to go with these guys.. Today I'll show you how I did some stash busting and created my chubby orange roots.

I started with a pair of  styrofoam cones that I picked up at Joann's, I had a coupon and was on a budget for this, plus I was there for fabric too..



To get a more carrot like shape I used an old serrated knife that I on hand from another project but you can find real shapers made for this at most craft stores. Since carrots come in all shapes I just whittled until I got a shape I liked.

They look like carrots right? 

So the next step is what to do abut the tops, after all to be a real carrot you have to have greens!

I lucked out in that too. I had a bit of left over ferny greens from another project that in my opinion worked out great. I took at chop stick, but you can use anything from a dowel to crochet hook to make your hole in the top. I drug out the hot glue gun and glued the tops into place before I did any other covering.

Here you can see the center hole and how I started the yarn around the tops with some strategically placed hot glue.

I jumped back into the crazy mess I call a craft room and came up with this Bernet baby yarn that I felt gave it some texture and a variance of colors for the wrapping portion. I wrapped each one quickly and carefully and again hot glue the ends. Easy peasy and too cute if I do say so myself.

One down one to go

Ta -Dah Easter Centerpiece

This was a fun simple and quick craft that even kids could do with some adult help, in total I had less than two hours into it, which included the shaping and stash hunting. 

I'll already had requests so I'll be making more. Some variances could be to use twine and paint your carrots your favorite color, or use a heavier yarn over a white or painted styrofoam for a more "shabby" look. You can literally branch out for the greens use something you found or dried, add rick rack or ever greens to make it yours. No carrot is ever alike yours don't have to be either. How about rainbow carrots, they are thing, don't be limited by the colors either! Add them to baskets, wreaths or your fruit dish for fun. Keep them out all spring, carrots don't only have to be for the Easter Bunny!

You if you love this idea and don't have the patience or time to make your own head over to my Etsy store or my facebook I'll be posting them there for sell too! 

Check back next week for the second carrot craft, Fabric Carrots

Shared with

  Ragged Bits for their Waste Not Wednesdays 

 A Stroll Thru Life _Inspire Me Tuesdays

Oombawka design Crochet Wednesday link party

Year of Projects Post Year 7 Week 36

Just a quick update on the current blanket, an Easter Project and a small Birthday surprise.

I've completed the flower portion of my current Work in Progress. 30 flowers down now it's time to square them up.

Lot's of ends left to weave in but I thought it would be easier to do as I complete the squares. Winter decided it wasn't quite done with us already. The temperature has dropped and it seems more like blanket weather again. 

Easter is right around the corner and I have a couple of crafts in the works, one is bunnies! They are all cut out and ready to be stitched up. I'll be finishing them off with a pom pom tail. Colored tails for the white and white tails for the colored. 

Since I had the pom pom maker out for tails, and someone has a birthday coming up quickly I whipped out a couple of "Soot Sprites" from the Spirited Away movie  for the Kiddo. Just a couple of oversized eyes and a bit of clear thread and these guys will make a great addition to any corner..lol

I've got another project on tap for her and a couple of weeks to get it completed.  She's been eyeing those faux fur blankets and I found a great DIY post on putting one together.  Hopefully that will be a finish for next week.

Check out what the other Yoppers are up to this week!

Vintage Friday

I love wreaths, there I said it, I might also have a bag problem..but that's a totally different post.

For my First Vintage Friday post, I'm sharing a wreath I just made. The base is a quilting hoop (this is the vintage part) that belonged to my grandmother, Elizabeth (Ms Lizzy to most, even though she hated that name she never corrected anyone). I was lucky enough to have spent many a wonderful and cold winter afternoons working on quilts, learning to sew, and crocheting projects. Summer was dedicated to the garden, snapping beans and scrapping taters. Yes I was born and raised in the rural south, how did you know?

Okay to get back on track, I'm in the middle of moving from one place to another and I'm kind of in a stop in between for a bit, so I keep uncovering treasures. I ran across this hoop in the top of my old craft room closet and knew It was something I needed to work with. 

I sat down and thought about what would work best; how I wanted to showcase the hoop. While it is decorative it is also a memory piece, and it needed to not be over the top. Excess was something she was not a fan of. 

So I started with this pile of mess:

 I dug around and  uncovered some hydrangea blooms, Perfect! My grandmother had beautiful hydrangeas, although hers were blue. Then to have it match my bedroom I added some blue tones and a bit of fern that I had bought for another project, that will be coming up soon.

 I had the hoop on hand but you can always pick them up at yard sales and good will for fairly cheap. Mine is an 18 inch version and it is wood, they come in metal and oval, too. I used pipe cleaners or "Chenille sticks", whichever you prefer to bunch and position my arrangement. 

And this was the end result:

I'm pretty Happy with it personally.

Ribbons didn't make it to the final project, so I'll have them on hand for another project. You can never have enough yarn or ribbons. It's just a simple piece, it feels springy, happy and a bit more like home and as I hung it up I thought I might have heard a little bird chirping her approval too.

Check out Pintrest for other "Hoop Wreath" Ideas, they are a simple and fun way to add to your decor. I did see an idea I loved, brides are using them for their bouquets now.  You could make it simple or extravagant as you wish and then when the day is over hang it on your bedroom wall. Such a great alternative to a traditional bouquet.  

If you are interested in a Hoop Wreath for Easter or any holiday for that matter drop me a line and I'll be happy to brainstorm with you on your design or create one especially just for you! 

Sharing With My Thrift Store Addiction's Vintage Charm