Jaybird Designs

What??

2012-01-25T06:05:00.001-08:00

I'm shocked! No one has entered my giveaway yet for the My Memories Suite Digital Scrapbook Software! So here is a little idea of how easy it is to make a fun page!

And here is another page I made.

To win your free software, be sure to leave a comment on THIS post.

Giveaway Time!

2012-01-23T13:36:00.000-08:00

OK, to make up for my lack of blogging, how about a giveaway?? I was supposed to do this back in December, but with my computer dying, the dog trying to die, the holiday's and now homeschooling....it kinda got put on the back burner.
**************
So, how many of you scrapbook? Ever do it digitally? Well, I would love to scrapbook, but really don't have the time. But I do find digital scrapbooking an enjoyable alternative. It takes me less time since I don't have to acquire all the supplies, mess up my workspace, and then clean up!

I've had the pleasure of trying out a wonderful digital scrapbook software called My Memories. It is pretty easy to get the hang of and I LOVE checking out the site with all the fun papers, embellishments, and even FREEbies!!

My Memories Suite has so much cool stuff, I bet you could find just about any theme you want. And, for my giveaway...how about your own copy of the digital scrapbook software! Just stop by their website and check out the themes. Find your favorite product and let me know in the comments of this post. On Monday, January 30th, I will pick a winner! You will then win your very own copy!

Feel free to also check them out here:
Blog- http://blog.mymemories.com/
Facebook- http://www.facebook.com/pages/MyMemories/140359372717593
Twitter- http://twitter.com/#!/mymemoriessuite

Oh....and one last thing! Can't wait to win your own copy?? How about a coupon code that gets you a $10 discount off the purchase of the My Memories Suite Scrapbook software and a $10 coupon for the MyMemories.com store - $20 value! Pretty cool, huh?

Just use code STMMMS82058 at checkout! And while you are at it....check out some of the neat pages I created!

Oops!

2012-01-20T07:08:00.001-08:00

Sorry, I guess I've dropped the ball when it comes to blogging again. I am just so crazed right now with all the changes in my life. Unfortunately, I don't deal well with changes. I'm trying, but some things I just need to let slide by.

Homeschooling is going well. We have good days and bad days. I am learning new ways of dealing with them and tweaking our sessions to our advantage. I still think I am having more fun with it than my daughter is, LOL!

I hadn't said anything about this before, but my fur-baby Cash has been throwing us for a loop over the last month. He tried to die on us right before Christmas and it has been a stressful month of vet appointments, shoving meds down his throat, and not leaving him alone much. He appears to be getting better, but even after $3000, we still have no idea what is making him sick. Both Phenomia and Lupus have been suggested, but all tests that have been done have come back negative. And then, on top off it all, he hurt his leg on Monday and I really thought he broke it!

As for crocheting, I am on a deadline crunch and even though the yarn I am using for my current project is the best choice for it, it is also a PAIN to crochet with! I have to take many breaks because my hands cramp up and I don't have anything nice to say about weaving in it's ends!!!

So, in a nutshell, I could really use a massage! A nice bottle of wine would be good too!

Off to the Publisher!

2012-01-10T07:32:00.000-08:00

And it's off to the presses!! This was such a fun item to design and I think you will all love it! I can't tell you what it is...but I can give you some hints!

The yarn is one of my newest favorites to design with! Spud & Chloe Sweater! And the colors are Turtle and Firefly. Don't you just love those names??? I also love reading their blog....be sure to check it out!

And I bet you are wondering where it is going....well I am happy to say that I am working with the amazing team over at Cooperative Press! This fun item will soon be found in their Fresh Designs Crochet series of books. And, by the way, this one will be in the KIDS book! Be sure to stop by their site and check out some of their other books.

OK, time to move on to the next project....have I mentioned that 2012 will be a great year for published designs for me??

Manic Monday!

2012-01-09T06:15:00.000-08:00

Well, it's time to start a new week! Our first partial week of home school went fine. I did some adjusting and I think I am ready for week 2. Heather is enjoying herself and we are coming up with all kinds of creative ways to get our jobs done. I hope this week goes smoothly too.

I've finished up my current crochet/knitting projects and it is time to mail some off. I have plans to start some new ones asap...but first a few design submissions need to sent off too. But more about these at a later time.

I also sold a custom order this week, so I need to whip up a Custom Sailor Hat. Isn't this just the cutest photo by Robin Long Photography?

OK, I need to get moving...lots to do today. Have a great day!

Valentine's Day is Coming!

2012-01-05T08:50:00.000-08:00

Rolled brim hat is available in 3 sizes! Be sure to purchase the size needed for your head!

As seen in Crochet World Magazine!

I know it is only January 5th, but Valentine's Day will be here before you know it!! I've just listed some cute Valentine's Day hats in my Etsy shop as custom made items! Get them sooner rather than later!

And So it Begins!

2012-01-04T06:08:00.001-08:00

It's our first day of home schooling! I am so excited and can't wait to start. I just hope Heather is half as excited as I am! LOL!!

Wish us luck and I'll let you know tomorrow how it went!

Ruby for Woman - January 2012

2012-01-03T06:03:00.001-08:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More christian life

Adventures in 2012!

2012-01-02T06:02:00.000-08:00

Well, it's here and one of my resolutions is to keep up with my blog better. Now, that may be difficult because one of the BIG changes for 2012 is that I will now be home schooling my 9 year old daughter! My hope is to get a little blog post in here and there while she is working on school work.

This is going to be a big change for me. I've gotten pretty used to have my days free to do as I want. Now I'll have a kiddo to worry about and take everywhere with me. I'm actually really looking forward to it! I think we are going to have so much fun! The first thing I did was to print out a list of "holidays" for every day this month and I hope to do something fun to correspond to each day. So, today is Soup Day!! Guess what we'll be having for dinner? LOL!! Other fun days this month include Jan8 - Elvis' Birthday, Jan12 - Little Red Riding Hood Day, Jan16 - Nothing Day, and Jan21 - Hat Dy.

As for my crochet designing, well, it looks like 2012 is going to be a good year for publication. My first two designs just came out in the new Crochet World Magazine and I have many, many more to come! I am finishing up another design this week and will be starting yet another one due at the end of the month! I'm really excited about these. This year I hope to submit (and have accepted) a lot more designs and I hope to self-publish at least 3 new patterns to sell online.

Other than that, I am currently working on my knitting skills. Who knows....maybe some knit designs will be showing up soon from Jaybird Designs?? On my needles right now is the Waffle Stitch Scarf from Bernat. Since I only had one skein of Mosaic, I am making the scarf skinnier and in the beautiful shade of Spectrum.

Well, I hope you all have a wonderful 2012 and I am looking forward to staying in touch with you more! Have a great day!

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T17:40:00.001-08:00

Hope you all have an awesome 2012!!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T13:05:00.000-08:00

May it be filled with yarn-y goodness!

Crochet Commercial for Sudafed

2011-12-20T06:50:00.001-08:00

Lookie! New Designs!

2011-12-06T12:25:00.000-08:00

Check out the new edition of Crochet World Magazine for not just one...but TWO...new designs from me!!

Charming Hearts

Triad Wrap

Ruby For Women, December 2011

2011-12-01T09:50:00.001-08:00

The Book Corner

2011-11-29T11:37:00.000-08:00

Are you a member of the CGOA?? Did you get your copy of the Winter 2011 Crochet! Magazine with the Chain Link Newsletter inside? If so, be sure to check out The Book Corner!! My debut in book reviews for the CGOA!! In this issue I am reviewing Go Crochet! Afghan Design Workbook: 50 Motifs, 10 Projects, 1 of a Kind Results by Ellen Gormley. Let me know what you think...I'd love some comments!

Thanksgiving (Black Friday) Weekend Sale

2011-11-23T07:01:00.000-08:00

Today through Sunday, save 30% off your Jaybird Designs Etsy Purchase!!!

Use code BLACKFRIDAY11

This includes crochet patterns and Ready to Ship items!!! Happy Shopping...and Crocheting!

What I'm Working On

2011-11-12T09:24:00.001-08:00

Currently I'm whipping up some fun hats for a local charity. I did this last year and really enjoyed it and got many compliments on my hats. So now I am making up a few more to donate out of my yarn stash.

If you are in the Grand Junction, Colorado area and enjoy making hats, it would be wonderful of you to make a few to donate. If you don't make hats, at least stop by these locations to buy a few! They make great gifts and all proceeds go to an amazing charity!

It's hard to read the image, but anytime after December 3, the hats can be purchased at the following locations:
Heirlooms For Hospice at 635 Main Street
Benges Shoes at 514 Main Street
and
The Hot Tomato Cafe at 124 N. Mulberry Street in Fruita

For more info on donating, contact Suzi at
handmadehatsforhospice [at] yahoo [dot] com.

New Ready to Ship Accessories!

2011-11-11T07:32:00.000-08:00

Need some unique gifts? Check out my Ready2Ship Accessories section in my etsy shop! I just filled it with some fun new items!! Remember, flat $6 shipping for as little or as much as you purchase...Anywhere!!

Custom Items

2011-11-10T13:57:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder that the holidays are quickly approaching! On November 18th I will be disabling my Custom Made Items from my etsy shop to allow me more time to spend with my family. But don't worry, they will be back up sometime late in December! So hurry and make your purchases if you want a unique gift!

The Crafter's Apprentice: knitting needle roll tutorial

2011-11-09T06:00:00.000-08:00

I love my crochet hook roll that I made a few years ago. And everyone that sees it, loves it. I found this tutorial today for a similar one and thought I'd share.

The Crafter's Apprentice: knitting needle roll tutorial: Last week was a barren crafting-desert. This week will be different. I got so much done this weekend I surprised myself. Not only did I f...

Ruby For Women, November 2011

2011-11-01T11:46:00.000-07:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More crafts

SillyGeese Designs Crochet-Along!

2011-10-28T07:34:00.000-07:00

Join my friend Shannon of Sillygeese Designs for a fun baby blanket crochet-along!

Today's Plans

2011-10-26T06:49:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd share, LOL!!

finish Heather's Halloween costume-Bella Sara Generosity
dehydrate carrots from the garden
go to Micheal's for supplies
one load of laundry
kickboxing tonight
make healthy food choices

Have a great day! :-)

Guest Blogger - Crochet Concupiscence

2011-10-21T07:12:00.000-07:00

Today I'd like to welcome Kathryn from Crochet Concupiscence as my guest blogger! If you are interested in guest blogging for me about something crochet-related, please contact me at jaybird [at] acsol [dot] net with your ideas! I look forward to hearing from you!

I am trying to spread the word about three of my big crochet projects and I thought you might be interested in any or all of them.

The three crochet projects are:

1. Swaddle! A Crochet Art Project. Swaddle is a crochet art project exploring the ways in which women nurture the men in their lives. It looks at silent forms of nurturing but specifically delves into the way that women communicate. Swaddle looks at the positive ways that female approaches to communication improve relationships but also looks at the darker side of how differing communication styles can suffocate relationships. It does so using crochet, which has stereotypically been considered a female craft. It will include 12 – 24 works of crochet art incorporating a range of crochet types including hyperbolic crochet, mosaic crochet and granny squares and using yarn from indie dyers, sellers and small yarn stores. I am trying to crowdsource funding for the project and all people who contribute will be represented in the project. Learn more here .

2. The Health Benefits of Crochet (a book). I am writing a book about the mental and physical health benefits of crochet. Crochet is such a healing, soothing craft and can provide significant mental health benefits for people dealing with depression, anxiety and stress-related illness. It can be used as a form of both long-term and short-term pain management and also as a form of occupational therapy for people with various hand ailments. What I’m spreading the word about is that I’m still interviewing people for this book and I’d love to hear from anyone who feels that crochet has helped their health and who would like to complete an email interview for the book.

3. Hooked Together! (a blog project). Hooked Together is my huge crochet blog project designed to explore the connections within the crochet community. I have a list of 270 crochet / fiber / yarn blogs that I read. I am going through the blogroll for each of those blogs and exploring what they read, sharing their links to crochet, craft and other blogs on my blog every Friday so that my readers can find other blogs that they’ll enjoy. In the end, I’m going to put all of this together into a big display so that we can all see how the crochet community is connected within itself and to the larger craft community.

2011-10-20T06:34:00.000-07:00

Stop by and check it out tomorrow! I'll have some great items for sale at the Mesa Fiber Arts Guild table!!

Half Price Sale!

2011-10-18T06:21:00.000-07:00

Making room for more inventory! Half price sale on all Ready2Ship women's fashion accessories until the end of the week! Lots of great items for your fall wardrobe!!

Check them out HERE!!

Guest Blogger - Sillygeese Designs & FREE Pattern**

2011-10-13T06:37:00.000-07:00

Today I'd like to welcome Shannon of SillyGeese Designs as my guest blogger! If you are interested in guest blogging for me about something crochet-related, please contact me at jaybird [at] acsol [dot] net with your ideas! I look forward to hearing from you!

I made this pumpkin applique a few years ago then never used it. Since it is Fall Harvest time I decided to recreate it and practice my pattern writing skills. I'm going to sew them onto a onsie for my youngest gosling

Of course she just wants to chew on them, but that is quite all right with me, it is washable after all
so I used cotton yarn, you can use what ever you have on hand but different yarns may need different hook sizes and will result in differing finished product. Mine is less than 3 inches long by 1.5 inches at its widest point.

I used mercerized 100% cotton yarn.Sinfonia from Hobby Lobby
ch 15,turn
Row 1: sc in first ch from hook, sc in next 5ch, hdc, dc in next 2, hdc, sc in next 4 remaining ch, (14 total)ch 1 turn,
Row 2:( Back Loop only for whole row)sc in next 4 sc, hdc, dc in next 2, hdc, sc in next 6 sc., ch 1 turn,
Row 3:(in Front Loop Only) sc in next 6ch, hdc, dc in next 2, hdc, sc in next 4 ch, 1 turn,
Rows 4-5: repeat rows 2 and 3.
Row 6:repeat row 2, except do not turn add 2 loops to your hook on the end of your piece, then pull a loop thru all three creating a decrease along the end, repeat , bind off.( I do this by cutting my yarn a couple inches longer then slip stitching and pulling the yarn all the way thru framing a knot, then taking a darning needle and burying the yarn into the piece.

Add stem
on the opposite end from your decreases, pull a loop thru and chain 6
sc in first ch from hook, sc in next 4ch, sc into pumpkin. bind off and bury tail of yarn.

**Copied with permission from http://www.sillygeesedesigns.blogspot.com/

Too Cute!

2011-10-10T06:51:00.000-07:00

I just received this sweet sweet photo of my Angel Cloud Cocoon!! A BIG thank you to Tierra Kendrick Photography for sharing this adorable photo with me! Be sure to check out her website and Blog!

And just FYI, I'm currently swamped with work, so I have disabled all my custom listings in my etsy shop. I hope to be able to resume making custom items for you in a few weeks. In the mean time, if you are interested in a custom order...still contact me. I know some other crocheters who may be willing to make your items for you.

Guest Blogger - Sharp Crochet Hook & FREE Pattern

2011-10-06T06:23:00.000-07:00

Today I'd like to welcome Jessica, creator of the Sharp Crochet Hook as my guest blogger! If you are interested in guest blogging for me about something crochet-related, please contact me at jaybird [at] acsol [dot] net with your ideas! I look forward to hearing from you!

Modern X's and O'x Crochet Edging

Today I am going to show you how to crochet a cute edging on a baby blanket and burp cloth. This tutorial is a great project for a beginner because it is quick, easy, and a lot of fun! This is an appropriate edging for a boy! Not to frilly or lacy.

Materials Needed:

*1 1/2 yards of flannel

*1 Sharp Crochet Hook.

You can pick this up at www.sharpcrochethook.com, shipping is free through the end of the month. The advantage to using the Sharp Crochet Hook is it will go through the fabric much easier than normal crochet hooks because normal crochet hooks have rounded heads.

*1 Package of Crochet Thread. I prefer size 3 because I think it is softest for babies.

*Rounded Corner Template

You can print this from here (it's free): http://sharpcrochethook.com/faq.html

*Scissors

Step 1.

Unfold your fabric. Measure off 11" and cut. This section will be for your burp cloth. The rest will be for your blanket.

Step 2.

Cut out the rounded corner template you want to use. I will be using the 3" rounded corner template today because our border isn't very wide. If you were doing a wider border, I would suggest using a larger round.

Trim off the edges of your fabric. Use the template to cut out all four corners on your burp cloth and the corners of your blanket. I left my blanket folded in half and cut the corners of two layers at once.

Step 3.

Get your crochet thread and Sharp Crochet Hook. Make a loop (slip knot) and single crochet all the way around your fabric every 1/4". (Poke your hook through the fabric.)

When you've finished this first round, start on the second round. You will need to know how to chain(ch) and how to do a double crochet(dc) stitch.

The pattern is: *do 5 dc, skip a stitch and do a dc, then ch 4, then dc in the skipped stitch.* Repeat from *to*.

Here is what it looks like:

If you want to change up the pattern a little, you can just do less (or more) than 5 dc. Here is what it looks like if you don't do any dc in between the "crossovers." In my opinion, it would be perfect for a girly blanket, but since this is for a boy, I like having the 5 dc as a spacer because I think it looks more masculine.

Here is the finished blanket folded.

Any baby would love this handmade gift!

HAPPY CROCHETING!

Oct 2011 - Ruby for Women

2011-10-04T06:50:00.001-07:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More crafts

Guest Blogger - Some Bunny's Love

2011-09-22T06:36:00.000-07:00

Today I'd like to welcome Kimberly of Some Bunny's Love as my guest blogger! If you are interested in guest blogging for me about something crochet-related, please contact me at jaybird [at] acsol [dot] net with your ideas! I look forward to hearing from you!

Recently I spent time with family and friends that I have not been able to see since I moved back to Southeast Virginia. By stating "spending time" I mean that I was not stopping in to say "Hi" between my various yarn shop visits or appointments. It felt good to relax and not to have to think about deadlines and numbers. I knitted earnestly on some projects that used the new techniques I have learned. In doing so I found out something about myself that had been buried.

While hanging out with my mom, I discovered that she could no longer hold the hook and yarn in her hands anymore to crochet. It saddened me to think what joys she was missing as she gave me her few skeins of yarn and hooks which all fit in a plastic shopping bag. I began to remember the projects I crocheted -- they were scarves, shawls and baby blankets. The ache to pick up a hook and make something tugged at me, but I had things to knit for work and knitted projects to finish for gifts.

Shortly after mom gave me her yarn, I found a palm-sized crocheted heart and the note I wrote back in late June when my boss, Benjamin Levisay, asked me to join in the support of crochet by designing a hooked heart. I had forgotten about the request and the heart which resulted from it. When he had asked me to create one, I immediately decided to see what I could do with the Twinkle Soft Chunky I had in my stash. Grabbing the largest hook I could find, I quickly crocheted what I jokingly deem a lily pad.

Seeing the heart reassured me that crochet was not dead inside me at all. Instead it was only dormant, waiting to show itself. I fondly smiled in recollecting the times I was an avid crocheter who attended knitting groups. Okay, maybe I was a bit *ahem* passionate with my craft... When I saw Lily Chin at STITCHES last year, I divulged that her story in Better Homes & Gardens Crochet magazine in 2002 brought me back to the love of yarn with crochet. In meeting Laura Krzak of "Singularly Laura" during STITCHES Midwest 2011 last month, I was excited that someone was able to show the passion that I once carried ten years ago. Quickly I made sure that she met key crochet designers like Myra Wood and Edie Eckman at the conference and proudly showed her my shawl patterns I posted on my personal blog those many years ago.

Crochet had never gone away from my heart; it had never left its home after all. It was only patiently waiting for me to pick up my hooks. So if you don't mind as I snuggle underneath my grandmother's crocheted crazily-striped afghan while I alternate projects between my needles and hooks, I am going to start crocheting again. =:8

Hmmmm....

2011-09-20T07:36:00.000-07:00

What do you make with over 2600 glass seed beads and 1000 yards of silk mohair yarn????

You'll find out in Spring 2012!!!

Sorry for the teaser....but you all know the rules by now. No sharing till it is published! :-)

Military Patrol Cap

2011-09-13T07:10:00.001-07:00

Today is International Crochet Day! Celebrate!!

2011-09-12T06:42:00.000-07:00

Today is International Crochet Day! Celebrate!!

Check out some fun things to do to celebrate over on The CLF Blog!!

Guest Bloggers?

2011-09-08T13:19:00.000-07:00

I'm thinking of having some guest blogger posts. If you have something crochet related that you would love to share with my readers, drop me a note to jaybrd [at] acsol [dot] net and let me know your ideas. Also, feel free to send me any questions there too!

SOTW – Jaybird Designs

2011-09-06T06:42:00.000-07:00

SOTW – Jaybird Designs

Check it out! I'm the Etsy Twitter Team Shop of the Week!! (Read the interview to find a new discount code!)

Ruby For Women, Sept 2011

2011-09-02T07:25:00.001-07:00

2011-08-24T08:01:00.000-07:00

Just listed in my Ravelry, Etsy, and Artfire Shops!!

Artfire! Check it out!

2011-08-22T08:36:00.001-07:00

JaybirdDesign's Studio

Unique Gifts

2011-08-19T07:16:00.000-07:00

SAVE 20.00 % On
All Items

Use Coupon Code:

BTS2011

during checkout.

Handmade Accessories

JBD Specials & Sales!

2011-08-06T07:29:00.000-07:00

Check out my ETSY shop for some great specials and sales!

Use code SUMMERSHIPPING for free shipping on domestic purchases!
Use code BTS2011 for 20% off your purchase and get ready for school!

I'm Back!

2011-07-25T07:10:00.000-07:00

My family and I just returned from vacation! We took a few weeks and drove our 1978 Dodge motorhome across the country...for the third time! Our stops this time included Mt. Rushmore, Wisconsin Dells, Pittsburgh PA, Holiday World in Santa Claus IN, Rolling Acres Zoo in Salina KS, Dodge City KS, and back home to Grand Junction CO!! Whew!! Now I have a ton to do around the house to get back to normal. Plus I actually am working on some new designs!! So, I wanted to let you all know that my Etsy Shop is back up and running! Hope you all have a wonderful week!!

Better Late than Never

2011-07-06T11:54:00.000-07:00

OK, so the 4th has officially passed, but you can still make this fun Patriotic Headband for some Summer fun! Check out the July 2011 edition of Ruby for Woman e-Zine for the free crochet pattern from Jaybird Designs!

Sneak Peek

2011-07-02T07:56:00.001-07:00

Inside Crochet Volume 20......

Freeform CAL starts July 1!

2011-07-01T07:27:00.000-07:00

Freeform CAL starts July 1!

Think I'll be joining! :-)

Happy 4th of July!

2011-06-30T09:30:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable long weekend!! I plan on it!!

And check out the sweet Red, White, & Blue items featured in my etsy shop!

Flashback!

2011-06-21T05:42:00.000-07:00

Do you remember this interview from a few years ago??? Stop by and listen~

http://www.daveallgood.com/archives/72-crochet.html

CGOA Now!: Jean Leinhauser: Rest in Peace

2011-06-16T05:57:00.000-07:00

CGOA Now!: Jean Leinhauser: Rest in Peace: "It is with a very sad heart that I let you all know that Jean Leinhauser passed away earlier today. I will never forget the times I spent ..."

I was currently working with Jean on a project and knew she was sick, but I had no idea. I was so excited to be working with this crochet legend. RIP Jean.

Free Shipping in June

2011-06-01T07:06:00.000-07:00

How about a summer sale! I will be offering FREE domestic shipping for the entire month of June on all ready-to-ship and custom made items in my etsy shop!

Use code "SummerShipping"!

New FREE Crochet Pattern

2011-05-27T06:41:00.000-07:00

Check it out!! The Gumdrop hat pattern is so cute and I am in loooooove with the pictures!!! Hurry and download your copy of my free crochet pattern just released in the Spring issue of Tangled Online Magazine!!

What I'm Working on Wednesday

2011-05-25T06:30:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! I'm sorry I've been so absent lately. I have been so busy and my life has been so happy and full. It's sad to say, but crocheting has been put on the backburner. It's hard to explain, but I'm just not feeling it right now. I think part of it is that I made myself a few items and was disappointed in how the turned out. I also haven't been very inspired lately to design anything new. I am hoping that come Autumn these feeling will change and I will get back to my designing.

Don't worry, I'll still have my shops open and will continue to post specials and sales here on the blog. I'll still be happy to make custom orders for anyone interested and may even whip up some one-of-a-kind items to list in my Ready to Ship sections. And I think I will be making some gifts for friends and family.

Other than that, I am looking forward to a wonderful summer with my family and friends. I still plan on teaching some girls to crochet and work on the Granny Square Project. Also I will be working hard at loosing those last 10 lbs and get into a smaller size jeans. I'm finally enjoying my Jiu-Jitsu classes and have been attending them more regularly. I'm hoping that in combination with my kickboxing, the pounds will melt off!! But, I am covered in bruises! LOL!!

I hope you all have a wonderful Summer and feel free to contact me any time with questions, suggestions, or just to chat! My email is jaybird [at] acsol [dot] net or you can always visit me at my facebook page!

Free Gift With Purchase

2011-05-20T12:32:00.000-07:00

Today only! (May 20, 2011) I'm offering a free gift with any custom order purchase over $20 from my etsy shop!!

What I'm Working on Wednesday

2011-05-11T07:59:00.000-07:00

WOW! Is it really Wednesday?? My cold from last week has turned into a sinus infection and I'm still feeling icky. May need to head to the doctors soon for antibiotics. :-(

Since I've been so yucky, I haven't been doing much crocheting lately. I finished my Investing and am disappointed with how it turned out. So now I'm working on some fine-tuning to see if I can get it to fit better. Oh, and I still need to find some cool buttons for it too. But truthfully, there is nothing on my hook and I'm really not feeling like crocheting much lately. Guess I just need a break.

So, today I'll share with you a picture of my garden. Each year it keeps getting bigger and bigger!! I've been spending a lot of time working on it this year and will soon be spending more once it's time to harvest....freezing and canning, here I come!

Have a great day!

New Design-Wedding Fascinator!

2011-05-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

I've been sick lately, so I'm sorry for not posting often. But I wanted to share the newest Jaybird Designs published pattern with you!! It's in Inside Crochet, Issue 18! And, of course, it is my newest favorite design! OH.....also check out the Designer Inspiration page! :-)

What I'm Working on Wednesday

2011-04-27T06:48:00.000-07:00

Good Morning! The weather has taken a turn for the worse here in Western Colorado and it has been cooler and rainy. Great for crocheting!

I'm still working on my "Investing" and tomorrow I will be joining the prayer shawl group at my local church again. I have a few small finishing touches to my current shawl and then I get to start a new one.

I'm patiently waiting for my next professionally published design to show up in a magazine and I think you will all LOOOOVE it!! I'm on pins and needles waiting!

And I wanted to show you a new portrait hat I made for Robin Long Photography. Not sure yet what I will be doing with it....writing the pattern? selling finished items?? hmmm.....

OK, have a great day and thanks for stopping by!

The New Me!

2011-04-25T06:02:00.000-07:00

My hair is a lot shorter now and RED!!

pssst...notice I finished my Goddess Tunic.

Makeover Day!

2011-04-21T06:39:00.000-07:00

Guess what I'm getting for my birthday??? A makeover! I need a change! So off to five60 salon I go this afternoon for a little bit of pampering. I really love my long hair, but as I'm getting older, it is getting thinner, so I need to do something with it to make it look better. We'll see what they come up with.

So, here is a picture of me from last week. I'll be sure to post some "after" pictures soon!! Enjoy your day!

What I'm Working on Wednesday

2011-04-20T06:51:00.001-07:00

Good morning. I'll admit, I really, really want to go back to bed this morning. But I won't. I have things to do.

Wanted to tell everyone again, THANK YOU!! I enjoyed your comments on my previous post and appreciate you for taking the time to leave them.

I guess you are wondering what is on my hook today. Well, this week I finished and mailed off a few custom Snuggle Cocoons. I am now finishing up a custom diaper cover and frog hat too. Plus I have and "Investing" by The Crochet Dude on my hook for myself!! Oh, and I sold a custom Sugarplum hat this morning that I need to start soon. So, I guess I'm a little busy, LOL!!

Plus we are working hard on our yard and garden this year and hoping to make it all beautiful and have lots and lots of fresh veggies. I need to get ready for Easter this weekend too. I also need to get to the gym more....I haven't been watching what I eat as well as I should lately and I'm starting to feel it. :-(

OK, time to get off my butt! Have a great Wednesday everyone!

I WON! I WON! Thank you!

2011-04-19T06:42:00.000-07:00

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!!! I won the Flamie Award for Best Design for Children! My Tulip Baby Set won by only 10 votes! It was close, but I want to thank everyone who voted! You don't know how excited I was just to be nominated...and to win something! OH MY!! I was on cloud nine when I found out and it was soooooo hard for me not to tell anyone!!

I have a few THANK YOU's that need to be said:

*Thanks to Laurie and the Crochet Liberation Front for supporting the art of crochet in such a fun manner!
*Thanks to my wonderful, dear, sweet friend Annastasia Cruz of My Treasured Heirlooms who nominated me! It's been a pleasure to be your friend all these years and to go through our crochet designing journey together!
*Thanks to Dee Stanziano of Crochet With Dee! She was my mentor through the CGOA Associate Professional Program and she actually showed me the tulip stitch used in the pattern.
*Thanks to the amazing Michele Maks, who was the editor of Crochet World Magazine when this issue was published! I appreciate all the support and encouragement you showed me!
*And thanks to my friends and family! My beautiful little girl who inspired many of my designs, my wonderful hubby who has allowed me to become a stay-at-home mom and to follow my crochet obsession, and my mom and Aunt Cora who are always amazed by what I have accomplished. Also thanks to my Granny up in heaven who passed down her creative genes to me and taught me how to crochet!
*And finally, thanks to all of you....my crochet friends....for your support, encouragement, and votes!

The Tulip Set crochet pattern can be found on the cover of the April 2010 edition of Crochet World Magazine.

You can also listen to Getting Loopy to hear all the winners and listen to me sound like a giggly little girl accepting my award here (I'm on at about 68 minutes into the show):

Listen to internet radio with Mary Beth Temple on Blog Talk Radio

Birthday Gifts

2011-04-14T08:25:00.000-07:00

Wanted to share with all of you the wonderful gifts I received for my birthday from my daughter Heather and her best friend Kathryn. And thanks to Kathryn's mom, Michelle, for helping the girls make them! Aren't they sweet!

Oh Geez!!

2011-04-13T08:15:00.000-07:00

I just realized I titled yesterdays post "What I am working on Wednesday" but it was only Tuesday!! LOL!! Is it my age or just the "off" week I am having since my daughter is home on Spring Break? Maybe a bit of both! LOL!! I even forgot to take her to Jiu-Jitsu class last night and realized it 20 minutes after class began!

I had a great day and thank you all so much who left me Birthday wishes. It really warmed my heart to realize so many people cared enough to leave me a note! Thanks again!

So, today I am enjoying another beautiful day and spending some fun time with my daughter. Finishing up a few crochet projects too.

And I also wanted to tell all my photography friends about this great giveaway over on Pro-Tography 101 Blog. One of the prizes is a $10 gift certificate to my etsy shop!! Good luck!

What I'm Working on Wednesday

2011-04-12T09:08:00.000-07:00

It's my Birthday!! I'm almost finished with my own Goddess Tunic (shorter version) and need to work on a few custom orders. Other than that....a nice dinner out with my family is on the to-do list for today. Enjoy your day whatever it brings!

Feeling It

2011-04-11T13:06:00.000-07:00

OK, time for me to get personal with all of you. Hope you don't mind a brief glimpse into my life. Now, I am not "complaining", I just want to share my feeling with you.

Tomorrow is my birthday. I will be 37, I'm realizing I'm not young anymore, and it is frustrating me! I've been having this problem since January. Let me explain.

I'm in the best physical shape of my life. I work out a few times a week, watch what I eat (most of the time, LOL!), and I am no longer a "heart attack waiting to happen." I feel great and look good. Most people can't believe how old I am when I tell them. So, what is bothering me? Well, since I am at the gym a lot, almost everyone there is younger than me. Guess that is what I get for enjoying activities that are usually done by a younger crowd (Kickboxing and Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu). But seriously, I like to tease a few of the girls I work out with that "My tattoos are older than you!"....and I'm not lying!

So, now that I feel so good...I look in the mirror and feel totally let down. Fine lines, wrinkles, thinning hair, unwanted hair.....you name it. (But no gray yet!) I keep telling my hubby that I want "the girls" lifted for my 40th birthday! LOL!

And the total kicker that pushed me over the edge this week??? I got an invite to a Facebook group to start planning my 20th Class Reunion next summer!!! UGH!! So what's a girl to do?? I'm going to spend my birthday money on a makeover!! Stay tuned for some pictures next week! Have a great day!

What I'm Working on Wednesday

2011-04-06T06:43:00.001-07:00

Nothing! LOL!! I have Spring Fever this week, so I went window shopping on Etsy. Oh, how I would love a new wardrobe!!

See my treasury here.

Interview

2011-03-31T06:43:00.001-07:00

Stop by this photography blog to see my featured interview!

What I'm Working on Wednesday

2011-03-30T06:48:00.001-07:00

Hello and Happy Wednesday!!

I am having a great week and am planning on working up some swatches today. Next on my list is my very own Goddess Tunic and probably a custom order for some new Snuggle Cocoons.

Now, remember that big box of yarn I showed you yesterday...well, I do have some big plans for it! This summer I have chosen 5 local girls (including my little Heather and our neighbor Kathryn) and will teach them to crochet granny squares. Then we will sew them together to make blankets, scarves, or whatever we decide to make. Then together, we will all decide on a local charity to donate the finished items to. The girls are really excited about this project and so am I!! In return for me teaching them to crochet, they will promise to meet with me 2 hours a week during the summer to make their squares. I have a total of 5 girls, but would love to have more. But right now I think 5 is all I can handle, LOL! I may be able to invite more towards the end of summer once they get better at crocheting. Or if I can find another adult to help me that knows how to crochet. But I'll keep you all informed of our progress. And BTW, I'm hoping to make this a yearly Summer project...and I'm calling it The Granny Square Project - 2011!

banner by Katherine @ MadeItForYou.com

A Few New Things!

2011-03-29T09:24:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share a few new things with you!

I currently have 3 new colors for the Angel Cloud Cocoon!! I only have a limited amount of the new colors available (about enough to make 2 of each color), so if you like them, snatch them up quickly. The new colors are:
Finch (purplish-pink)
Blink (white without sparkle)
Quiet (blue/navy)

I also just listed a new Watermelon photo prop hat! I just love watermelons, and I hope you do too! Just think how creative you can get with some summer photos!! And wouldn't a matching diaper cover just finish the look?

OH...and see this large box of yarn scraps?? Stay tuned to see what I plan to do with it!

More Photos - Goddess Tunic

2011-03-24T06:30:00.000-07:00

Here are some great photos of the Goddess Tunic from Inside Crochet Magazine. They were taken by Naturally Red Photography and modeled by the beautiful Miss Morgan! Last photo is from the magazine.

What I'm Working on Wednesday

2011-03-23T06:31:00.001-07:00

Happy Happy Wednesday!! I hope you all are having a wonderful week!!

This week on my hook is currently a few of my Custom Angel Cloud Cocoons. I had a photographer purchase a few in different colors. I need to finish them up and get them in the mail soon.

I also just finished a new design for publication, here is a sneak peek!! It is so cool and I love it! It was also something I have been wanting to design for a while now. I even had time to whip up one for myself! :-)

Other than that, my next project is my very own Goddess Tunic! I'll be making it a shorter length and now that the weather is starting to get nicer, I can't wait to wear it!

Enjoy your day and thanks for letting me share mine!

New Design-Goddess Tunic

2011-03-22T07:34:00.000-07:00

I am so happy to tell you that my first Internationally published design, along with my first woman's garment, is now available!!

Check out the newest edition of Inside Crochet Magazine for the Goddess Tunic! This is a UK based magazine that I usually purchase through Yudo for a digital copy, but I do know that my local Barnes & Noble carries it.

Now for some info about the design! It is a simple design that can be crocheted by any beginner! It is formed by two rectangles that are attached at the top and sides with beads. I think it has a wonderful Roman Goddess look to it and would make a wonderful swimsuit cover-up or can easily be warn with a tank top underneath! I can't wait to make one for myself, but I think I will make mine shorter to wear with a tank and shorts. OH....and the yarn, Louisa Harding Merletto, is TDF!!!

I can't wait to get some better pictures of it to share with you!

Time to Vote!

2011-03-15T06:56:00.000-07:00

It's that time again! Time to vote for the Crochet Liberation Front Flamie Awards!! Anyone with a love of crochet is allowed to vote and I am honored to have been nominated in 2 categories this year!! Whooo hoooooo!!! You can find me under Best Crochet Designer for Children and my Tulip Baby Set is nominated for the Best Design for Children!!

Please go vote for me!! I would so love to win one of these awards and will proudly display it on my blog! :-)

Here is a link for you to vote:
GO VOTE
and once you do, you will receive a copy of this awesome scarf designed by my friend Tracie!

If you need some help, here is a link to the voting reference guide with tons of photos and links!

SPRING!

2011-03-14T07:45:00.000-07:00

Spring has sprung here in Western Colorado!! I spent the weekend with my family outside! We started our garden by planting tons of broccoli, peas, and spinach! I even spent yesterday afternoon rollerblading with my daughter! It was so much fun! Hubby walked Mr. Cash while we were at it and he was just fascinated by the wheels and how fast we could go! I could just see it in his eyes......I bet he would've loved to pull me around and see how fast we could go!!! But I, on the other hand, had no interest in crashing hard like I KNOW would happen. LOL!!

OK, to celebrate, I've just listed this new item as a custom made accessory!! It is my favorite crocheted items for Spring! The slouchy hat and fingerless gloves make wonderful accessories, the color is HOT for Spring, and I love the little roses!! Thanks to Naturally Red Photography and my friend Trina for the photos!!

OH, the set was originally made as a donation to Girls on the Run of Western Colorado. They will be auctioning it off at the Flip Flop Fling! This is a great program and I can't wait to let Heather join next year!

What I'm Working on Wednesday

2011-03-09T07:09:00.001-08:00

I'm stuck! My current crochet project isn't going as planned and now I'm not sure what to do. I'm waiting to hear back from the editor to hear her suggestions. But other than that...I need to whip up a hat for a friend and I am currently carrying around a large bag with my knit afghan for my bedroom. It is turning out really nice. Plus I love how simple it is to work on, so I take it with me everywhere.

Other than that, not much going on here. Working out a lot...swimsuit weather is just around the corner. Toning up, but not loosing much weight. The weather is starting to get nice and I am really starting to look forward to some quality family time outside in beautiful Colorado!

Anyone working on something special they want to share?? Have a great day!

Just a Reminder

2011-03-08T06:44:00.000-08:00

Use code NATCROMO25 in my Etsy or Ravelry shop to receive 25% off your purchase!

Looking for a Machine Knitter

2011-03-05T12:40:00.001-08:00

I have a good friend looking for someone to machine knit some simple wraps for her out of thin mohair yarn. She is in Salem, OR and would prefer someone in the area, but will work with anyone in the US. You can contact her directly at long.robin@comcast.net or drop me a line with any basic questions. I have known her for years and she does a lot of my professional photographs.

If you are interested or know of someone who might be, please at least talk to her. She REALLY wants to do this.

Jennifer

What I'm Working on Wednesday

2011-03-02T07:01:00.000-08:00

Nothing, absolutely nothing.

Well, not really. I did pick up some yarn and knitting (YIKES!) needles last night to work up a swatch just to see what it looked like. And I need to start working on a design that was just accepted for publication....just wanted to wait until my cold was gone so that I can think straight without a stuffy head.

But, other than that, nothing.

So let me share some exciting news with you! I have been nominated for a Flamie!! Whoo hooo!! You can not imagine how excited I am right now. I am in the "Best Crochet Designer for Children" category along with some other big names! It is such an honor to be among them! Voting starts the 15th and you can rest assured that I will give you all a link and remind you to go and vote for me! LOL!! You can see all the amazing crocheters nominated on the CLF Blog.

Also, the CGOA Blog is hosting a crochet-a-long. If you feel like it, be sure to join. I bet it will be fun.

And to help spread the word about National Crochet Month, today I will be attending a meeting of the Mesa Fiber Arts Guild to help promote the art of crocheting. They currently don't have a crochet group....so I hope to change that! Should be fun!

OK, tons of stuff to do today. Enjoy your day and happy crocheting!

National Crochet Month

2011-03-01T09:40:00.000-08:00

Welcome March!! Let's start this baby off with a roar!! How about a sale for the entire month!

Use code NATCROMO25 in my Etsy or Ravelry shop to receive 25% off your purchase!

And if you feel like using it right now, how about purchasing your copy of my newest pattern, Shabby Rose! This great earwarmer is great for those cool mornings right now and won't mess up your hair! I LOVE mine!!

Etsy Shop
Ravelry Instant Download

Happy Crocheting! What will you be doing to support National Crochet Month?

Oh WOW!!

2011-02-28T15:23:00.000-08:00

Time is really flying by this year!! I just realized that tomorrow is March!! Know what that means??? It's National Crochet Month!!!

Now, what will I do to celebrate?? Well....of course there will be SALES on my original crochet patterns!! And how about a NEW pattern....hmmmm....OK, twist my arm. Here is a sneak peek at a pattern soon to be released!

I'd also love to do some type of crochet get-together here in the Grand Junction, Colorado, area. So, if you are a local and interested....let me know. I'm sure we can plan something FUN!

What I'm Working on Wednesday

2011-02-23T07:18:00.000-08:00

Hello!! It's Wednesday again!! I've been busy this week!

An old friend of mine purchased a custom Cupcake 2010 Set for her niece and I finally got it finished and mailed yesterday. I love how it turned out!

I also had a custom order for a Snuggle Cocoon and really love this new color...it's called "Pearls".

I also promised you a photo of the awesome Greyhound statue that I received from my wonderful family for Valentine's Day....isn't he sweet!!

Well, now I'm off to create a new design for magazine publication!! Have a great day and happy crocheting!

Frustrated

2011-02-22T09:10:00.000-08:00

Warning...this is going to be a venting post.

I've been very frustrated lately. It's nothing I can't handle, but still...it's driving me nuts!

First, I've been trying Jiu-Jitsu at the gym. Dang...it's HARD! Lots of little movements to remember and get in the correct order. Many new things to get used to. I'm having such a hard time with it that I am almost in tears by the end of class! The worst part is that I don't know WHY I am having such a hard time. I have a good memory, I am decent with my flexibility, and I am in the best shape of my life. So why am I having such a hard time?? And it doesn't help that I am probably the oldest female in the classes and am starting to feel like a "silly old woman" for even trying it. And I'm not that old!! Grrrr!! (me in the black)

Next is the stupid dogs next door and the new fence that needs built. We have some aggressive dogs (although they will swear up and down that the dogs are sweet!) next door that bark and growl at us when we are in our backyard. They've managed to jump against the fence and tear some boards loose. Loose enough to get their heads through the fence and bite my dog on the nose! So, since Christmas we have been trying to get a new fence installed between the houses. We have gotten some estimates and the owner of the house did not respond to our request for them to pay half the cost. (After all, the ONLY reason we need a new fence is because of the dogs in their yard!) Well, we had a surveyor come out to mark our property line so that we can make sure that the new fence is on the line. Turns out the fence is no where near the property line and actually crosses it like an "X"! So, in December we had to file a complaint with the city because they also have a shed that is too close to the property line....almost on our property according to the survey. We would love to see the ugly thing torn down, BTW. So now we are waiting for the city to tell us what is going to happen. And until then, no new fence. I'm starting to get really tired of having to supervise my dog every time he needs to go potty in the backyard! Grrrr!

OK, enough!! I have a few more complaints, but you don't need to hear them. For those of you who actually read this, thanks. I just needed to get it off my chest. Now, back to crocheting and seeing if I can relax and take my mind of things....but first....another Jiu-Jitsu class. I'm not going to let it get the best of me. Wish me luck!

New Section in the Sidebar

2011-02-18T07:30:00.000-08:00

My amazing husband had a wonderful idea last night! (BTW, he is usually full of them!) I just added a new section to my blog sidebar to link to my favorite charities that I have donated to. I try to donate whenever possible, but my time doesn't always allow it. I also try to stick with local groups or larger ones that I am sure are reputable and usually have some meaning to me and my family. If I have donated to your cause and you would like me to link to it, please let me know.

So, be sure to check out my favorite charities when you get the time and donate whenever possible!

Have a great weekend!

Gotta Love Greyhounds!!

2011-02-17T06:04:00.000-08:00

Here is the video of the Greyhounds at Westminster. There is a beautiful Red Fawn (like Cash) in the second group. I was even able to pick out the winner! (Pretty proud of myself.) For those of you who don't know, Mr. Cash is an AKC Champion, Windrock Ring of Fire. (This link is neat...it's his pedigree that you can trace back 33 generations!) Here is a link to the other Windrock hounds.

What I'm Working on Wednesday

2011-02-16T06:59:00.000-08:00

Happy Wednesday!!Can't believe it is here again.

This week I've been working on a new baby blanket and matching hat for my husband's co-worker who just had a baby girl. I will be delivering it today, but first I need to snap a few pictures of it. I'd love to share, but I think I will be submitting it to a magazine for possible publication...so I can't. Sorry.

I'm also working on a custom Cupcake 2010 set for a friend's niece. It is being made from Cascade Sierra yarn in Spring Green. I'm thinking brown and pink cupcakes would look sweet!! I'll be sure to share pictures when I am finished.

Other than that, just my normal everyday life here. I have decided that Mr. Cash is severely accident prone and I should probably own stock in my Vet. Heather is doing great in school. Hubby is working hard as usual. And I am looking forward to Spring!

Enjoy your day, whatever it brings! Happy Crocheting!

Clearance Priced Crochet Patterns

2011-02-14T07:10:00.000-08:00

I started a new section in my Etsy shop and will soon change the prices in my Artfire and Ravelry store. These patterns are ones that either don't sell well or the yarn used has been discontinued. But no matter what, you will get a great deal. All patterns priced under $3!

Oh....and 2 more sales in my etsy shop will get me to 1000 sales!! Whoo hooo!! Have a great Valentine's Day!

Bow Tie for Pets?

2011-02-11T07:32:00.000-08:00

Did you know that my Itty-Bitty Bow tie looks wonderful on your small pet?? Check out how handsome Mr. Simon looks this Valentine's Day!!

Thanks Mary for sharing your pictures!

You can purchase your Custom Bow Tie, buy one Ready to Ship, or even make your own with the Itty-Bitty Accessories pattern!

Just think how some of my other items would look on your pets.....hmmm.....flower headbands....frog hats...LOL!!

Free Crochet Heart Pattern - Ruby For Women

2011-02-10T06:53:00.000-08:00

Hey....how would you all like a quick little FREE crochet pattern for Valentine's Day??? OK....twist my arm.....here it is! (psssssssst...if you make something with it, please share! I'd love to see what you come up with!)

download now

You can find more fun projects, tons of inspirational stories, yummy recipes and more in the February 2011 edition of Ruby For Women (a free online magazine!).

What I'm Working on Wednesday & New Crochet Pattern

2011-02-09T07:22:00.000-08:00

Happy Wednesday!!

I'm happy to introduce my newest, independently published, crochet pattern! The Trinity Shawl! I recently joined my church's Prayer Shawl group and this is my first design in what I hope to be many more shawls, wraps, and lapgans for this group!This original pattern features a simple repeat of three's to represent the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. You will love making this design and blessing someone, or even yourself, with it! I hope you love it as much as I, and the ladies at my church, do!

You can purchase the new pattern and see more pictures of it in my Etsy or Ravelry shop.

Other than that, I hope to send a new pattern to my editor today and work on finishing up a baby blanket (and possibly use it as another pattern) for a co-worker of my husband that just had a baby!

Enjoy your day!

Sneak Peek

2011-02-08T06:42:00.001-08:00

Thanks for all your comments and suggestions on the new blanket for my bedroom. Still thinking and will let you know what I decide to make.

But here is a sneak peek of a new crochet pattern coming in the next day or so. I really like it and hope you do to!

Have a great day!

Decisions, Decisions

2011-02-07T09:12:00.000-08:00

So my wonderful hubby has requested a crocheted afghan for our newly redecorated bedroom. For the life of me, I can not decide on what type of design to use!! The room is a little busy with a Log Cabin style quilt (not shown in the picture) and the curtains feature squares as well. We kinda have a southwestern feel to the room with sage and terra cotta colored walls and a rustic log bed. With all this busy-ness going on, I think I would like to see a solid colored blanket....maybe a nice dark sand or tan color. But that is as far as I get!!

Do I want motifs?? Not a big fan of making all those little squares and sewing them together.

Ripples?? Nah, I think that would just be too busy.

Textured? Possibly. But as a sampler? Or just a simple design throughout?

So, if you have any ideas or pattern suggestions, please let me know!! I'd really like to make this before Summer!! LOL!!

I Love these People!

2011-02-04T07:15:00.000-08:00

I mentioned in a previous post about my friend who was in a motorcycle accident. They were featured on the news last night.

The Portrait Series-Baby Bum Cover (New Crochet Pattern)

2011-02-03T07:16:00.000-08:00

Just released!!!

etsy
ravelry

What I'm Working on Wednesday

2011-02-02T15:27:00.000-08:00

OOOPS!! Has it really been a week since I last posted!! Geez, I'm doing really bad at this again. Guess I just have nothing really interesting to write about.

This past week I finished a prayer shawl for my church ministry and added it to the stock for someone in need. I also took one from the stock and gave it to my dear friends. A very close friend, more like family, had a motorcycle accident last week and the husband is in the hospital with a badly damaged leg. I've been taking meals over for the kids, but the family is still in need of more. You can read about them, and their needs, HERE. If there is any way you can help, please do.

As for my crocheting, I started another prayer shawl and tomorrow I will be releasing a new pattern. Here is a sneak peek!

Other than that, it is really cold here....but luckily no snow. Guess I just have a happy, boring life. And I LOVE it! Have a great day!

What I'm Working on Wednesday

2011-01-26T07:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Wednesday! I hope you are all having a wonderful week!

I've been busy here. I'm currently working on a few new baby photo props to send to my friend Robin at Robin Long Photography. She is gearing up for an amazing workshop for photographers, Simply Baby. I'll be sending a Sugar Plum Hat as a door prize and I whipping up a few other goodies to send along. Planning on mailing this weekend.

I also sold a custom Valentine Hat that I need to finish.

Then yesterday I had a photo shoot with the amazing Naturally Red Photography and a beautiful new model!! Two of the items are for new patterns, the others are a couple of last minute, ready to ship, Valentine's Day items. Can't wait to share them all with you!

Lastly, I picked up a new cookbook at the library and have been trying out a bunch of new recipes. The Best 30-Minute Recipes by Cooks Illustrated is amazing!!! I HIGHLY recommend ANY recipe from Cooks Illustrated or America's Test Kitchen!!! They are all super-duper yummy!! Some take a lot of preparation, but are so worth it! Last night I made the Quick White Chicken Chili and the family devoured it!! Even my picky 8 year old!! The Thin Crust Pizza and Crunchy Potato Wedges are also a few of our favorites! All I can say is, Boy....have we been eating good lately!!!

Well, I hope you all have a wonderful week!!

3rd Annual Crochet Awards Nominations Open! It’s FLAMIE TIME!

2011-01-25T06:54:00.000-08:00

3rd Annual Crochet Awards Nominations Open! It’s FLAMIE TIME!

Check it out!!! I'd loooove to be nominated this year....hint,hint, HINT!!!

What I'm Working on Wednesday

2011-01-19T07:52:00.000-08:00

Happy Wednesday! I hope you are all having a wonderful week. I actually have a few things to tell you today about what is on my hook!!

I am currently working on a new design to self-publish. I hope to have it finished today and get photos soon. Then I can send it off to the editor. It is using Misti Alpaca Chunky yarn and I am using my new "K" hook that I just received from Jimbo's Hooks!! I love this new hook!! It feels wonderful and I can't wait to make more things with it!

Other than that, not much else on my hook...but lots of things in my mind! LOL!!

I also want to share with you the new tag I got for Mr. Cash! It's from Punky Jane's Etsy shop. She is a fellow Etsy Twitter Team member and makes some wonderful stamped silver jewelry! Be sure to check her shop out! Cash's new tag features a Greyhound on the front and my cell phone number on the back....just in case he gets away from me. I think I may have to shop with her again for something sweet for my hubby on Valentine's Day!

Have a great day!

I Stink!

2011-01-18T10:54:00.000-08:00

I am doing a very poor job of updating my blog. Sorry.

So let me jot down a few things for you so I don't feel like such a looser.

I have added another new section to my etsy shop Ready2Ship Photo Props." Here you will find some great items ready and willing to be used for your next photo session. Most items will be newborn and baby sized and a lot of them will be one-of-a-kind! Right now I have listed some great items for all your Valentine's Day photos! My favorite is the Pink Heart Diaper Cover!!

Also, over at the CGOA site, they are accepting votes for the Crochet Hall of Fame!! Be sure to stop by and cast your vote!

Now to go finish some housework and hopefully start on a new crochet pattern... titled "

Have You Seen?

2011-01-13T06:41:00.001-08:00

Have you seen all the new items I have listed in my etsy shop?? I've made a few new categories! Books & Supplies has some of my crochet pattern books that I no longer need. I hope to add some of my yarn stash to this category too as soon as I get my yarn closet cleaned out! I've also created a category for my magazine Published JBD Patterns. These are the actual magazine that have my designs in them. Some of them are pretty hard to find now. I'm also ready to take custom orders again, so I turned on the Custom Hats & Props section. And currently on my hook are a few ready-to-ship Valentine's Day designs that I hope to get listed this week. Happy Shopping!

Are You Looking for a Crochet Magazine?

2011-01-08T09:43:00.000-08:00

UPDATE_ All patterns have been promised. Thanks for all the interest!

OK, I need to do this!! I am downsizing my crochet magazine collection! If you are searching for ANY issue of just about any crochet magazine from 2007 to present, please contact me and let me know. I am GIVING AWAY (yes, for FREE!) almost all of my collection and would love to see it go to happy hooker homes!!! All I'm asking is that you pay shipping for your new magazines. I even have duplicate copies of magazines that I have designs published in. So PLEASE, if you want anything, contact me at jaybird [at] acsol [dot] net with what you are looking for and I'll see if I can help!!

Crochet News and Happenings

2011-01-06T06:46:00.000-08:00

SO, just a few crochet-related things I want to share with you today!

The CLF - Crochet Liberation Front, has launched a new-and-improved website this week! Be sure to check them out HERE! Be sure to look at the book published by them and learn about the Flamie Awards! (BTW....I'd loooooove to be nominated!)

Something else that I learned about recently through the CLF is about our wonderful Crochet Podcasts! It appears that they are about to be charged large amounts of $ to continue, and that is just crazy!! So they are asking for donations to continue. Read the entire article here, and be sure to check out those podcasts and help with a donation if you can! I did!
Getting Loopy
Yarn Thing

Lastly, I just saw that my friend and amazing designer, Mary Jane Hall, has started a new site for her designs! Be sure to check her out at Positively Crochet!

Happy Hooking!

What I'm Working on Wednesday

2011-01-05T06:51:00.000-08:00

Time to start this again!! I haven't been extremely busy because of the holiday, but I have gotten some items made!

First, I just sent a new design off for magazine publication!! I'm really excited about this one! It's my updated version of an old 1955 crochet pattern that I found! I think you will all be loving this one just as much as I do! Here is a sneak peek!

I also made Mr. Cash a new sweater. I knitted it from a pattern I found so that I can practice my knitting skills. It looks really good, but stretches a lot, so it doesn't stay in place very well. But it does keep him warm and I stick it over his head and around his body when he is sleeping. I'd like to make him another one, but this time I will make a size or two smaller. Sorry...no pictures right now.

And currently on my hook is another sweater for Mr. Cash. (He doesn't like to be cold and is currently snuggled next to me on the couch with his nose buried behind my back!!) This one is crocheted from the Quick & Easy Sweater Pattern that I found on Etsy. It's gong to be blue, LOL!!

OK, I need to get off the computer and get some more work done! Have a great day!