moo cards

Thursday, September 30, 2010

Crochet Necklace

Free Pattern's Outline for a Crochet Necklace

Free Pattern's Outline for a Crochet Necklace

Well, this is quite different from the "Easiest Crochet Necklace" I've shown in the other post, and I've tried to write down an outline of this one's pattern.
For any question just contact me.. I know that probably this is not so clear!
Anyway, here it is:

Materials:
Less than one ball of any colour cotton yarn (worsted weight)
4.00mm hook

Necklace:
Ch77, sc in second ch from hook and in the next 3chs.
Ch76, sc in the 4th ch at the beg of previous ch loop, and in next 3chs, ch1, turn.
Sc in first sc and in next 3 sc, ch80, sc in the 4 sc at the beg of previous row, ch1, turn.
Sc in first sc and in next 3 sc, ch84, sc in the 4 sc at the beg of previous row, ch3 and sl st on the other side of the same closure piece to make a button hole.
Sew a button on the opposite closure piece of the button hole.
Make a flower of any kind (mines are just improvised!) to embellish the necklace, and sew it on the four chains strands.

I've made it even in a bright purple cotton yarn, and I'm really happy with the both.

These are very easy, and I hope you won't have problems making them.
Enjoy!

Actual children’s answers to the question “what is love?”

Actual children’s answers to the question “what is love?”

just HAD to share...
I've always loved these things...


Actual children’s answers to the question “what is love?”

“When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different. You just know that your name is safe in their mouth.” - Billy, age 4

“Love is when a girl puts on perfume and a boy puts on shaving cologne and they go out and smell each other.” - Karl, age 5

“Love is when you go out to eat and give somebody most of your French fries without making them give you any of theirs.” - Chrissy, age 6

“Love is what makes you smile when you’re tired.” - Terri, age 4

“Love is when my mommy makes coffee for my daddy and she takes a sip before giving it to him, to make sure the taste is OK.” - Danny, age 7

“Love is when you kiss all the time. Then when you get tired of kissing, you still want to be together and you talk more. My Mommy and Daddy are like that. They look gross when they kiss.” - Emily, age 8

“Love is what’s in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.” - Bobby, age 7

“If you want to learn to love better, you should start with a friend who you hate,” - Nikka, age 6

“Love is when you tell a guy you like his shirt, then he wears it everyday.” - Noelle, age 7

“Love is like a little old woman and a little old man who are still friends even after they know each other so well.” - Tommy, age 6

“During my piano recital, I was on a stage and I was scared. I looked at all the people watching me and saw my daddy waving and smiling. He was the only one doing that. I wasn’t scared anymore.” - Cindy, age 8

“My mommy loves me more than anybody. You don’t see anyone else kissing me to sleep at night.” - Clare, age 6

“Love is when Mommy gives Daddy the best piece of chicken.” - Elaine, age 5

“Love is when Mommy sees Daddy smelly and sweaty and still says he is handsomer than Brad Pitt.” - Chris, age 7

“Love is when your puppy licks your face even after you left him alone all day.” - Mary Ann, age 4

“I know my older sister loves me because she gives me all her old clothes and has to go out and buy new ones.” - Lauren, age 4

“When my grandmother got arthritis, she couldn’t bend over and paint her toenails anymore. So my grandfather does it for her all the time, even when his hands got arthritis too. That’s love.” - Rebecca, age 8

“When you love somebody, your eyelashes go up and down and little stars come out of you.” - Karen, age 7

“You really shouldn’t say ‘I love you’ unless you mean it. But if you mean it, you should say it a lot. People forget.” - Jessica, age 8

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

halloween gloves for the kids

Life in Cleveland: Mmmalabrigo glovies

going to make these for the kids with GLOW IN THE DARK YARN for halloween!!!!


75-Yard Mmmalabrigo Fingerless Mitts:
IMG_3772
Materials:
a small amount (75ish yards, 1.20 oz) of Malabrigo.
Size 7 & 8 Double Pointed Needles
A stitch holder
A stitch marker for marking the beginning of the round and 2 other stitch markers for marking increases

Cast on 32 stitches with size 8 needles. Join for knitting in the round being careful not to twist.
Work K2, P2 rib for 9 rounds. (the cuff was a little bit short – if you have more yarn you might want to make this a bit longer)
Knit 2 rounds plain.

Gusset:
Setup Round: K16, Place Marker, Increase 1, K1, Increase 1, Place Marker, Knit to end of round
Round 1: K around slipping all markers
Round 2: K around slipping all markers
Round 3: K to first marker, slip marker, increase 1, K to next marker, Increase 1, Slip Marker, K to end of round.

Repeat rounds 1-3 until you have 13 stitches between the markers – row 18 since the end of the ribbing.

Next Round: K around slipping all markers
Next Round: K to first marker, remove marker, Bind off 12 stitches, remove marker, knit to end of round.

Knit 7 rounds plain.
Work 4 rounds in K2, P2 ribbing
Switch to size 7 Double Pointed Needles
Work 5 more rounds
Bind off loosely in pattern.

Weave in ends and block if desired. Repeat for second mitt.

BEAUTIFUL Fingerless Gloves pattern

The Arboretum: Skaði Fingerless Gloves

I LOVE the pattern on these fingerless gloves...
definitely have to try this one

Skaði Fingerless Gloves

Skaði is the Norse goddess and giantess associated with skiing, mountains and winter. These fingerless gloves are a snug choice for winter, using moss stitch to create a dense yet stretchy fabric.

IMG_564811

Notions:

1 skein of Palette Vintage Worsted yarn (9 wpi) in Enamel

5mm (H) hook

Needle to weave in ends

Pattern:

Uses US crochet terms

Cuffs:

Ch 25

Row 1: Single crochet around back-loops only. Slip stitch to first stitch, turn.

Row 2-9: Repeat as above. This should form back-loop only ribbing.

Hand portion:

Row 10: Moss stitch around (switch to crocheting in the round). Moss stitch = *1 single crochet into both loops, chain over next stitch* repeat *to*

Row 11 onwards: * **Sc into chain space, ch over sc**, every 5 **to** inc by 1 (sc ch sc ch in 1 ch space)* repeat *to* 10 times

After: *Moss stitch around inc by 1 every 10 sts* repeat *to* 3 times

After: *Moss stitch around (no increases)* until the moss stitch fabric above the cuff measure around 2 inches.

Thumb hole: ch1, slip stitch into 7 moss sts before (14 loops – sc ch). Moss stitch around until measures 1 inch. Slip stitch and bind off.

Rest of hand: reattach at bottom edge of thumb hole. Moss stitch around until measures 2 inches from thumb divide.

Edging: *slip stitch in first loop, double crochet in next loop* repeat *to* until reach beginning. Slip stitch, bind off.

Weave in all ends.

Cosy knitted hand/wrist warmers - Knitting - Canadian Living

Cosy knitted hand/wrist warmers - Knitting - Canadian Living

pattern to make with my POEMS yarn

Cosy knitted hand/wrist warmers

Keep your hands warm on chilly mornings -- and in freezing cold offices.

By Joelle Hoverson

Also called fingerless gloves, these quick-to-knit warmers keep wrists and the upper part of the hands toasty while preserving finger dexterity. In mildly cold weather, they can be worn as is; when it's really cold, they can be layered with gloves underneath. They are shown here in women's and men's versions. The men's pattern is great for all ages, even "cool" teenage boys who worry that handknits might be too girlish for them. One size fits just about everyone, a handy feature for gifts.

Women's hand warmers
Finished size: Will stretch to fit hand sizes up to 8" (20.5 cm) around, about a women's size large.

Finished measurements: Circumference about 6-1/2" (16.5 cm) around (unstretched), and 6-1/2" (16.5 cm) long.

Yarn: Noro Cash Iroha (40% silk, 30% lambswool, 20% cashmere, 10% nylon; 100 yards [91 metres] / 40 grams): #84 raspberry, 1 skein.

Needles: Two 8" (20 cm) circular needles size US 6 (4 mm). Change needle size if necessary to obtain the correct gauge.

Notions: Yarn needle, scissors, stitch marker.

Gauge: 20 sts and 30.5 rows = 4" (10 cm) in spiral rib pattern in the round, with rib relaxed.

Cuff and lower hand
Cast on 32 sts onto one circular needle. Join for working in the rnd (round), being careful not to twist, and place marker to indicate the beginning of the rnd. Work in spiral rib pattern as follows:
Rnds 1 - 4: *K2, p2; repeat from * to end.
Rnds 5 - 8: P1, *k2, p2; repeat from * to last 3 sts, end k2, p1.
Rnds 9 - 12: *P2, k2; repeat from * to end.
Rnds 13 - 16: K1, *p2, k2; repeat from * to last 3 sts, end p2, k1.
Work rnds 1 - 16 a total of two times -- 32 rows completed; piece measures about 4-1/4" (11 cm) from beginning.

Thumb opening
For the next 8 rows, the sts will be worked back and forth to create the thumb opening, using both circular needles as if they were straight needles. The circular needles are necessary to accommodate the curve of the fabric tube you have been working so far. Temporarily remove the end-of-rnd stitch marker while working back and forth.
Row 1: (WS) Using the second circular needle, turn work and *k2, p2; repeat from * to end.
Row 2: (RS) *K2, p2; repeat from * to end.
Rows 3 and 4: Repeat Rows 1 and 2.
Row 5: K1, *p2, k2; repeat from * to last 3 sts, end p2, k1.
Row 6: P1, *k2, p2; repeat from * to last 3 sts, end k2, p1.
Rows 7 and 8: Repeat Rows 5 and 6.

Upper hand
At end of Row 8, place marker to indicate beginning of rnd, and resume working in the rnd on all sts with the RS of the work facing you as for cuff and lower hand. Work Rnds 9 - 16 of spiral rib pattern once, then work Rnds 1 - 2 once -- 50 rnds or rows completed; piece measures about 6-1/2" (16.5 cm) from beginning. Bind off all sts in pattern.

Weave in ends.

Make second hand warmer same as the first.

Banana Republic Hat Knockoff *big pics* **Now with PATTERN!** - KNITTING

Banana Republic Hat Knockoff *big pics* **Now with PATTERN!** - KNITTING

I saw this hat at Banana Republic last year and fell in love with it. But, like most things at BR it was ridiculously overpriced ($50, I think). Since it goes against every moral fiber in my body to pay that much for a hat, I whipped up my own pattern.

Mine:


The Original:


I changed a few things, like using seed stitch for the band instead of garter stitch and making it a little bit longer to cover my ears all the way. And it only cost $5 to make! Take that, Banana Republic!

Pattern:

Yarn: Lion's Brand Wool-Ease, Thick & Quick
Needles: US 8 29" circulars and US 10.5 dpns
Notions: One big ol' funky button, needle and thread

The band of the hat is knit flat:
Using circular needles to accommodate the number of sts, CO 75 sts, leaving a fairly long tail (don't join). Knit seed stitch *P1, K1* for 9 rows.

Row 10: Bind off 13 sts (this is the button flap) - 62 sts remain.
Change to dpns: K10, place marker (pm), K11, pm, K10, pm, K10, pm, K10, pm, K10, pm, k2tog to join round.

Knit 13 more rounds (Several people have mentioned that their hats have turned out a little short. I would recommend trying on your hat at this point and seeing if it is your desired length. If not, knit an extra round or two (or three) and then continue with the remaining pattern)

Begin decreasing: k2tog before each marker. Continue to do so until only 7 sts remain.

Break yarn leaving a fairly long tail. Pull tail through remaining sts, pull tight, and knot.

Now, try on the hat. Pull the button flap until the hat band is to desired fit. Remove hat, holding button flap in place (I used a dpn to keep it in place). Using the tail from the CO sts, stitch the bottom edge of the band and button flap together. Using a needle and thread, attach your button to the button flap.

This is the first pattern I've ever written. Hopefully I explained it okay. If you have any questions please pm me and I'll try to help you out. If anyone makes this hat, please post pictures! I would love to see how they turn out!

P.S.: I added it to Ravelry, too. I'm still learning how to use the site, but it seems pretty awesome so far.

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

2 humped camel

Kristieskids - patterns#2

I have GOT to make one of these guys for my hubby... who has been to Kuwait/Iraq twice, and HATES CAMELS!!! lol

Claude the 2 humped Camel

Claude the 2 Humped Camel

Supplies needed
:
G Hook
Small amounts of WW yarn
Buttons for eyes (optional)
Fiberfill
1 pipe cleaner

Terms used
Sc = single crochet
Sc-dec = single crochet decrease over 2 stitches
Dc= double crochet
Trc= Triple crochet
Ch = chain
BLO= Back loops only
Slp stch= slip stitch
FO = Finish off, or Fasten off

Body and neck
Each round is joined with a slp st to first stitch made in that row
Ch 2,
1) 6 sc in 2nd chain from hook,
2) ch 1, 2 sc in each sc around (12 sc)
3) ch 1, (2 sc in first sc, sc in next sc) repeat around (18 sc)
4-10) ch 1, sc in each sc around
11) ch 1, (sc-dec, sc in next sc) (12 sc)
STUFF
12) ch 1, (sc-dec, sc in next sc) (8 sc)
Body is not complete..DO NOT finish off, moving onto neck,
STUFF as you go.
13-20) ch 1, sc in each sc around.
FO leaving longer tail for sewing.

Head
Each round is joined with a slp st to first stitch made in that row
Ch 2
1) 6 sc in 2nd chain from hook
2) ch 1, sc in each sc around
3) ch 1, sc in first 2 sc, 2 sc in each of next 3 sc, sc in last sc (9 sc)
4) ch 1, (2 sc in first sc, sc in next sc) repeat 3 MORE times, sc in last sc (13sc)
5-9) ch 1, sc in each sc around
It is easiest if you emboider nose now,
10) ch 1, (sc-dec, sc in next sc) repeat 3 MORE times, sc in last sc. (9 sc)
STUFF, sew or emboider eyes is easiest if done here.
11) ch 1, sc-dec around, end with sc in last sc
FO

Use tail to sew hole shut.
Fold pipe cleaner in half. Push folded pipe cleaner up neck of camel and into body, leaving about ½ inch sticking out. Place head on end of neck, pushing remaining pipe cleaner into head. Make sure seam side of head is used as the bottom of head. Trim pipe cleaner if necessary. Sew head to neck.

Ears (make 2)
Ears are done in continous spiral, do not join at round end
Ch 2
1) 5 sc in 2nd ch from hook
2) sc in each sc around
Slp st to next sc,
FO

Sew ears towards back of head.
Sew or emboider eyes on head

First hump
Rows are done in continous spiral, do not join at round end
Ch 2
1) 6 sc in 2nd chain from hook
2) (2 sc in first sc, sc in next sc) repeat around (9 sc)
3) (2 sc in first sc, sc in next 2 sc) repeat around (12 sc)
Slp st to next sc
FO

Second hump:
Repeat directions for first hump EXCEPT do not slp st to next sc at end of round 3..instead,
4) sc in first 4 sc, dc in next sc, trc in next sc, now, take first hump made,(NO NOT fasten off!) and trc in any sc on first hump, Wornking on first hump dc in next sc, sc in next 8 sc, dc in next sc, trc in next sc, Working now on second hump, trc in first unused sc on second hump (this will be the first one immediately after the trc made before joining the first hump), dc in next sc, sc in last 4 sc.
Slp stch to next sc
FO leaving LONG tail.

Sew hump to camel body, stuffing slightly under the hump if desired.

Feet (make 4)
Feet are made in one continous spiral, do not join round ends A stich marker may be helpful here.
Chain 2,
1) 6 sc in 2nd chain from hook
2) IN BACK LOOPS ONLY. ch 1, sc in each sc around
3-6) sc in each sc around.
FO leaving longer tail for sewing.

Stuff legs if desired. (I didn’t do this to mine, and it still stands up!)
Sew legs to camel

Tail
Ch 6
1) slp stch in 2nd chain from hook, slp stch in next 2 chs, sc in last 2 chs.

FO
Sew tail to camel.
Bend Camels neck as desired.
Enjoy!

great info about pumpkin!!

LowCarbRecipeBox : Message: Cooking Low Carb with Pumpkin

Cooking Low Carb with Pumpkin

From Laura Dolson
,


Did You Know… that pumpkin is one of the vegetables allowed during Atkins’ Induction phase?


Did You Know…that pumpkin is chock full of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants?


Did You Know…that pie is not the only way to cook pumpkin?


Pumpkin is one of those vegetables that is almost emblematic of fall – it makes us think of harvest, of holidays, of frost, of lengthening nights and the oncoming winter. And yet, the only way it usually gets to the table is in a store-bought pie, or perhaps a can of pie filling that goes in a pie we made ourselves. But pumpkin can be so much more - and since pumpkin keeps for 6 months whole or for years in a can, it can be a year-round addition to our diets.


Pumpkin is chock full ‘o goodness. You can tell by its bright color that it’s going to be going to be good for you! Not only is pumpkin loaded with Vitamin A and antioxidant carotenoids, particularly alpha and beta-carotenes, it’s a good source of Vitamins C, K, and E, and lots of minerals, including magnesium, potassium, and iron.


Half a cup of canned pumpkin has 6.5 grams of effective carbohydrate
and 3.5 grams of fiber.


The seeds are also worth latching on to. Pumpkin seeds, also called pepitas, are loaded with minerals, seem to have an anti-inflammatory effect, and may even help protect against prostate cancer and osteoporosis. A quarter cup has about 5 grams of effective carb and 1.5 grams of fiber.

Selection
For cooking, you want a pumpkin that is heavy for its size. The lighter ones are drier, with a bigger open space in the middle. For the most part, stay away from the large pumpkins when selecting a pumpkin for eating – 2-5 lbs is about right.

Storage
Pumpkins can keep for a long time in a cool (ideally 50-60 degrees) dry place. Put newspapers underneath just in case though! Once the pumpkin is cut open, you need to use it within a couple of days (or freeze it) as it can mold quickly. Cooked, it’s fine in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.

Basic Easy Cooking Techniques

For pumpkin puree: Remember, you heard it here first: you don’t need to cut the pumpkin open before you roast it. I’m not kidding. Just jab it with a knife once or twice to vent the steam, put the whole darned thing on a baking sheet, and pop it in the oven at 350 F for an hour or so, until you can easily stick a knife into it. (Once I had to leave in the middle of this, so I turned off the oven after 20 minutes, and when I came back several hours later it was perfectly cooked.) Cool, then scoop out the seeds and stringy stuff with a spoon, or pull it out with tongs. It is SO MUCH EASIER than when it is raw!


If you want chunks, you’ll have to cut into it raw (though I have wondered if “par-roasting” would work to make the skin easier to hack into). Or find a store where you can buy it already in chunks. Or beg the produce guy at your local market to do it. Explain that people (e.g. you) would gladly pay more if someone else had done the wrestling.


For the seeds, let them dry on paper towels, then oil and salt them (and any other seasonings you want) and slow roast them in a 250 F oven until they smell good – about 45-60 minutes. Stir them every 15 minutes or so.

Ways to Eat Pumpkin
Pumpkin can be used in any squash recipe, but it has a depth of flavor that many other winter squashes don’t. It’s very versatile! Of course, we have to have pumpkin pie, so do try my low carb version
. But here are some recipes for soup, a main dish, and even breakfast:


Low Carb Pumpkin Pie

From Laura Dolson
,
Your Guide to Low Carb Diets
.

People love this pie. People have told me it was the best they've even had, and they didn't know it was low carb or sugar-free (or gluten-free). You must make it with the pecan crust
for full impact. That said, it's great on its own as a baked pudding, even for breakfast.

INGREDIENTS:

1 15 oz can pumpkin
2 eggs
2/3 cup unsweetened soy milk (or milk or cream - milk has more carbs, so adjust)
1/3 cup cream
1 C sugar equivalent from artificial sweetener
1 teaspoon dark molasses (optional)
2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 scant teaspoon t nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Pinch cloves
1/4 t salt

PREPARATION:

As an artificial sweetener, I prefer a form of liquid sucralose
, as powdered types have more carbs and sometimes an off-taste.


1) Preheat oven to 425 F.


2) Dump all the ingredients into a food processor or blender and whirl to blend.


3) Pour into the crust
.


4) Put the pie in the oven and immediately turn the oven down to 375 F. In 15 minutes, turn the oven down to 300 F. (This cooks the crust, so it isn't soggy, but then allows the custard to bake more slowly.) Bake until almost set in the middle, about 30-40 minutes more. If it starts to crack a bit around the edges, it's probably done.


5) Cool and serve with whipped cream (the real stuff, made with vanilla and sweetener). How To Make Homemade Whipped Cream



Nutritional Analysis: 8 servings, without crust: 3.5 grams effective carbohydrate plus 2 grams fiber, 3 grams protein, 5.5 grams fat, 80 calories.


With pecan crust, each serving is 4 grams effective carbohydrate with 3.4 grams fiber

Pumpkin Bread

LowCarbRecipeBox : Message: Pumpkin Bread

I love pumpkin bread!! I wonder if this could compare...

Pumpkin Bread

* Exported from MasterCook *

Pumpkin Bread

Recipe shared by Phillip
Serving Size : 1

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
3/4 cup Designer Protein Whey -- Vanilla
1/8 cup dried egg white powder
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
2/3 cup Splenda -- granular
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 can canned pumpkin -- 12 oz. unsweetened
3 large eggs
1/8 cup water
3 tablespoons olive oil

(This is really more like a cake. For a more traditional bread taste and texture, use only 1/2 can (6 oz.) of pumpkin and 1/3 cup Splenda)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees
Oil loaf pan. Mix all ingredients and pour in.
Bake for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
I have been using a Pyrex square baking dish and it takes approximately 50 minutes to cook.

Per RECIPE: (excluding unknown items): 1122 Calories; 80g Fat (59.7% calories from fat); 71g Protein; 51g Carbohydrate; 10g Dietary Fiber; 710mg Cholesterol; 2100mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1/2 Grain(Starch); 4 Lean Meat; 4 Vegetable; 0 Non-Fat Milk; 14 Fat; 0 Other Carbohydrates.

NOTES : This recipe shows only one serving so you must divide the carb count by the number of slices you get from the loaf, minus the fiber

LowCarbRecipeBox : Message: Sweets - Pumpkin Bars

LowCarbRecipeBox : Message: Sweets - Pumpkin Bars

are you seeing a theme here??? ;o)

Sweets - Pumpkin Bars

* Exported from MasterCook *

Sweets - Pumpkin Bars

Serving Size : 12
Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
3/4 cup almond meal
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
2 lg eggs
1 cup brown sugar twin or splenda
2/3 cup canned pumpkin
1/4 cup cooking oil
1/2 cup nuts

In a bowl beat eggs and splenda. Add oil and mix until combined. Then add the
dry sifted ingredients together with the pumpkin and nuts. Pour in 1/4 sheet
(12" x 8") greased baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Cool 5
minutes. Remove from pan and frost, if desired. Cut into 2" x 4" squares.

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 128 Calories; 10g Fat (68.7% calories
from fat); 5g Protein; 5g Carbohydrate; 1g Dietary Fiber; 31mg Cholesterol;
197mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1/2 Grain (Starch); 1/2 Lean Meat; 0 Vegetable; 1 1/2
Fat.

LowCarbRecipeBox : Message: LOW CARB FAUX SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE

LowCarbRecipeBox : Message: LOW CARB FAUX SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE

might save this one for thanksgiving!!! (with maybe a trial run first)

LOW CARB FAUX SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE

1 can pumpkin puree

1egg

1 T brown sweet and low

2 T melted butter

1 tea pumpkin pie spice

pinch of salt



TOPPING

1/4 ground pecans

1 T softened butter

pinch of cinnamon

1 T splenda

1 T protein powder



Serves 6



Preheat oven to 350 degrees



Mix first six ingredients together and put into a small casserole dish



Mix together topping ingredients and sprinkle over the pumpkin in the
casserole dish

Bake until warmed through and steusel has set a bit about 15 mintues

LowCarbRecipeBox : Message: Pumpkin Muffins

LowCarbRecipeBox : Message: Pumpkin Muffins

now maybe I can stop buying the "expensive" less healthy pumpkin muffins at Dunkin Donuts!! hehe


Pumpkin Muffins

* Exported from MasterCook *

Pumpkin Muffins

Recipe By :
Serving Size : 12 Preparation Time :0:00
Categories : Breakfast Muffins

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1/4 cup butter -- softened
1 pkg cream cheese -- (8 oz) softened
1 teaspoon vanilla
6 eggs
1 can pumpkin -- (15 oz.)
1 cup splenda granular
1 cup pecan meal
1 1/2 cups Whey Protein Isolate
1 tablespoon Vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 teaspoons baking powder

Cream butter, cream cheese and splenda together. Add eggs and vanilla, mix.
Add pumpkin. Add dry ingredients. Mix.

Bake in a 350 oven for 20 min in greased muffin tins.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 142 Calories; 13g Fat (81.6% calories
from fat); 4g Protein; 2g Carbohydrate; trace Dietary Fiber; 125mg
Cholesterol; 205mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain(Starch); 1/2 Lean Meat; 2 Fat; 0 Other
Carbohydrates.

NOTES : 5 NetCarbs per muffin

great fall recipe

LowCarbRecipeBox : Message: Sweet Potato Casserole


I'm trying to get ideas for low carb, low fat, etc recipes for fall... since fall and winter is always when I gain weight..
I have found a few I'd like to share.. here is the first one!!

Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potatoes?! On a low-carb diet?! Many of us miss the flavor of sweet
potatoes in casseroles and more - especially in the Fall. The good news is
that by adding just 1/2 cup of real baked sweet potato to a couple of more
carb-friendly relatives (pumpkin and squash), we can extend the dish and
fool the tastebuds! A finishing sprinkling of our low-carb marshmallows and
you'll think you're cheating - but you're NOT!

Ingredients:
1 small sweet potato
(baked, cooled and mashed to make 1/2 cup)
1/2 cup canned pumpkin
1 medium summer squash
(halved, seeded, baked and mashed to make 1 cup)
4 eggs
2/3 cup heavy cream
1 tsp xanthan gum
1/2 stick butter
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
Dash of allspice
Dash of cloves
1/2 cup Splenda®
1 tsp Brown Sugar Twin®
4 drops of yellow and 1 drop red food color [optional]
Marshmallows for topping (See Low Carb Marshmallows recipe)
Prepare sweet potato and squash to their recipe ready condition as listed
above. Ingredients should be room temperature. Preheat oven to 325°F.
Butter a 9-12" casserole dish.

In large mixing bowl, stir together mashed sweet potato, pumpkin, and mashed
squash (any summer squash is acceptable here). If some lumps remain, don't
worry about it - they add a little character to the dish! In a separate bowl
beat eggs with xanthan gum, Splenda and Brown Sugar Twin. Add heavy cream
and mix (with hand mixer) until well mixed and beginning to thicken.

Add egg/cream mixture to sweet potato mixture and stir by hand to mix
lightly. Add salt, spices and food color (if you wish to use it.) Mix to
distribute. You may wish to taste here for your sweetness and spice
preference. If more is needed, add it now.

Spoon mixture into buttered casserole dish and smooth to even out. Cut
remainder of 1/2 stick butter (after using some to butter dish) into thin
pats and distribute them over top of casserole. Optionally, you can sprinkle
a bit of extra cinnamon on top. Bake for 35-45 minutes until browned at
edges and cracking a bit. Remove from oven and cool 10 minutes before
sprinkling with marshmallows.

NOTE: You can top this dish with artificially sweetened meringue instead of
marshmallows if you prefer. If you use meringue, give the dish a few moments
under the broiler to brown the meringue tips before serving.

40 grams carbs (allowing for fiber) in entire recipe.
Makes 6 servings. 6.5 grams per serving.

Friday, September 24, 2010

amazing sweater I'd love to make sometime...

What to call this sweater? Let me think… I’ve been designing for over 25 years so after a while, I just run out of ideas. So, in honor of my daughter (the volunteered model) and her dedication to her profession (high school history teacher), I’m calling this one “Hey, Teach!”

When I came up with this idea, I could see wearing a tank top underneath it in a very casual way. So I sent her off to get ready for the photo expecting that. True to her own style, she totally dressed it up with a collared blouse, turning this easy-wear garment into a playtime-to-office piece in an instant.

I am particularly fond of this “baby doll” fit. I think it flatters all shapes – it adds hips to the boyish figure, and hides hips of the pear-shaped. You could even work a drawstring in and out of the first row of lace for an added detail.

The yoke lace pattern is easy enough to master but requires you to pay attention to your YOs and matching decreases throughout the underarm and neck shaping so you don’t end up with too many or too few stitches.

I used 2nd Time Cotton, an eco-friendly recycled cotton yarn, as a nod to Mother Earth.

model: Kelly-Anne Rush photos: Hélène Rush



SIZE
XS [S, M, L, 1X, 2X, 3X] (shown in size S)
FINISHED MEASUREMENTS

Chest: 32.25[35.5, 39, 43, 46.75, 50.75, 55] inches
Length: 19.5[20, 20.5, 21, 21.5, 22, 22.5] inches

MATERIALS

Knit One, Crochet Too 2nd Time Cotton [75% recycled cotton, 25% acrylic; 180yd/165m per 100g ball]; color #810 Linen; 3[4, 4, 5, 5, 6, 6] balls

Recommended needle size:
1 pair US #8/5mm straight needles
[always use a needle size that gives you the gauge listed below -- every knitter's gauge is unique]

2 stitch markers
4 stitch holders
Tapestry needle
4 buttons, 0.75 inch diameter


GAUGE

17 sts/24 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch

PATTERN NOTES

[Knitty's list of standard abbreviations and techniques can be found here]

Shaping Note:
Within the lace pattern, each [yo] is paired with a decrease. When increasing or decreasing at edge of work (ie. when shaping armholes and neckline), be sure to keep lace pattern correct. Do not work a [yo] if there are not enough sts to work its accompanying decrease.

S2KP: Slip next 2 sts to right needle as if to knit them together; k next st, pass both slipped stitches, together, over stitch just knit. Forms a centered double decrease.

1x1 Rib (Worked over an odd number of sts):
Row 1 [RS]: K1, [p1, k1] to end.
Row 2 [WS]: P1, [k1, p1] to end.
Repeat these 2 rows for 1x1 Rib.

Please note:
"Lace pattern" refers to the entire width of the chart below, not just what's inside the red square.


DIRECTIONS

BACK
CO 75[83, 91, 99, 107, 115, 125] sts.
Work 4 rows in 1x1 Rib, ending with a WS row.
Work in stockinette st until work measures 8 inches from CO edge, ending with a RS row.

Next Row [WS]: P5[5, 4, 8, 8, 7, 8], p2tog, [p5(6, 7, 7, 8, 9, 10), p2tog] nine times, p5[4, 4, 8, 7, 7, 7]. 65[73, 81, 89, 97, 105, 115] sts.

Work 8 rows in 1x1 Rib, ending with a WS row.

Bodice:
Set-up Row [RS]: K2[0, 4, 2, 0, 4, 3], work in Lace Pattern to last 2[0, 4, 2, 0, 4, 3] sts, k2[0, 4, 2, 0, 4, 3]. This row sets pattern for bodice. Pattern Repeat section outlined in red is worked 4[5, 5, 6, 7, 7, 8] times in each row.

Continue in pattern as set, maintaining 2[0, 4, 2, 0, 4, 3] sts at each edge in stockinette st, until work measures 13 inches, ending with a WS row.

Shape Armholes:
Note: See “Shaping Note” in Pattern Notes, above.

BO 4[5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10] sts at beginning of next 2 rows. 57[63, 69, 75, 81, 87, 95] sts.

Next Row [RS]: K1, k2tog, work in pattern to last 3 sts, ssk, k1.
P 1 row.
Repeat these 2 rows 1[1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 4] times more. 53[59, 63, 69, 73, 79, 85] sts.

Continue in pattern until work measures 18.5[19, 19.5, 20, 20.5, 21, 21.5] inches (armhole measures 5.5[6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5] inches), ending with a WS row.

Shape Back Neckline:
Next Row [RS]: Work 13[15, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23] sts in pattern, place next 27[29, 31, 33, 35, 37, 39] sts on st holder, join new ball of yarn and work last 13[15, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23] sts in pattern.
Work 5 more rows in pattern, working each set of 13[15, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23] sts using attached ball of yarn. Work measures 19.5[20, 20.5, 21, 21.5, 22, 22.5] inches.
BO both sets of sts.

LEFT FRONT
CO 37[41, 45, 49, 53, 57, 61] sts.
Work 4 rows in 1x1 Rib, ending with a WS row.
Work in stockinette st until work measures 8 inches from CO edge, ending with a RS row.

Next Row [WS]: [P6(7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12), p2tog] four times, p5. 33[37, 41, 45, 49, 53, 57] sts.

Work 8 rows in 1x1 Rib, ending with a WS row.

Bodice:
Set-up Row [RS]: K2[0, 4, 2, 0, 4, 3], work 25[37, 37, 37, 49, 49, 49] sts in Lace Pattern, k6[0, 0, 6, 0, 0, 5]. This row sets pattern for bodice. Pattern Repeat section outlined in red is worked 1[2, 2, 2, 3, 3, 3] times in each row.

Continue in pattern as set until work measures 13 inches, ending with a WS row.

Shape Armholes:
Note: See “Shaping Note” in Pattern Notes, above.

Next Row [RS]: BO 4[5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10] sts, continue in pattern to end. 29[32, 35, 38, 41, 44, 47] sts

P 1 row.
Next Row [RS]: K1, k2tog, work in pattern to end.
Repeat these 2 rows 1[1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 4] times more. 27[30, 32, 35, 37, 40, 42] sts.

Continue in pattern until work measures 14.5[15, 15.5, 16, 16.5, 17, 17.5] inches (armhole measures 1.5[2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5] inches), ending with a WS row.

Shape Neckline:
Next Row [RS]: Work 13[15, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23] sts in pattern, place last 14[15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 19] sts on st holder.
Work remaining sts in pattern until work measures same as back to shoulder.
BO all sts.

RIGHT FRONT
CO 37[41, 45, 49, 53, 57, 61] sts.
Work 4 rows in 1x1 Rib, ending with a WS row.
Work in stockinette st until work measures 8 inches from CO edge, ending with a RS row.

Next Row [WS]: P5, [p2tog, p6(7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12)] four times. 33[37, 41, 45, 49, 53, 57] sts.

Work 8 rows in 1x1 Rib, ending with a WS row.

Bodice:
Set-up Row [RS]: K6[0, 0, 6, 0, 0, 5], work 25[37, 37, 37, 49, 49, 49] sts in Lace Pattern, k2[0, 4, 2, 0, 4, 3]. This row sets pattern for bodice. Pattern Repeat section outlined in red is worked 1[2, 2, 2, 3, 3, 3] times in each row.

Continue in pattern as set until work measures 13 inches, ending with a RS row.

Shape Armholes:
Note: See “Shaping Note” in Pattern Notes, above.

Next Row [WS]: BO 4[5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10] sts, p to end. 29[32, 35, 38, 41, 44, 47] sts

Next Row [RS]: Work in pattern to last 3 sts, ssk, k1.
P 1 row.
Repeat these 2 rows 1[1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 4] times more. 27[30, 32, 35, 37, 40, 42] sts.

Continue in pattern until work measures 14.5[15, 15.5, 16, 16.5, 17, 17.5] inches (armhole measures 1.5[2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5] inches), ending with a RS row.

Shape Neckline:
Next Row [WS]: P13[15, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23], place last 14[15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 19] sts on st holder.
Work remaining sts in pattern until work measures same as back to shoulder.
BO all sts.

SLEEVES (Make 2)
CO 45[49, 55, 59, 65, 69, 75] sts.
Work 4 rows in 1x1 Rib.

Set-up Row [RS]: K4[0, 3, 5, 2, 4, 1], work 37[49, 49, 49, 61, 61, 73] sts in Lace Pattern, k4[0, 3, 5, 2, 4, 1]. This row sets pattern for sleeve. Pattern Repeat section outlined in red is worked 2[3, 3, 3, 4, 4, 5] times in each row.

Continue in pattern as set, maintaining 4[0, 3, 5, 2, 4, 1] sts at each edge in stockinette st, until work measures 2.5 inches, ending with a WS row.

Shape Sleeve Cap:
BO 4[5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10] sts at beginning of next 2 rows. 37[39, 43, 45, 49, 51, 55] sts.

Next Row [RS]: K1, k2tog, work in pattern to last 3 sts, ssk, k1.
P 1 row.
Repeat these 2 rows 6[7, 10, 11, 13, 14, 15] times more. 23[23, 21, 21, 21, 21, 23] sts.

BO 2 sts at beginning of next 6 rows.

BO remaining 11[11, 9, 9, 9, 9, 11] sts.

FINISHING

Weave in ends and block pieces to measurements shown in schematic.
Sew shoulder seams.

Neckline Ribbing:
With RS facing, k held 14[15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 19] sts of right front neckline, place marker; pick up and k 28 sts (approx. 3 sts for every 4 rows) along vertical front and back neckline edge, place marker; k held 27[29, 31, 33, 35, 37, 39] sts of back neckline, placing marker before last st; pick up and k 28 sts along vertical back and front neckline edge, placing marker before last st; k held 14[15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 19] sts of left front neckline. 111[115, 119, 123, 127, 131, 133] sts.

Row 1 [WS]: P1[2, 1, 2, 1, 2, 2], [k1, p1] to last 0[1, 0, 1, 0, 1, 1] sts, p0[1, 0, 1, 0, 1, 1].
Row 2 [RS]: [Work in 1x1 Rib as set to 1 st before marker, S2KP, removing marker] four times, continue in 1x1 Rib as set to end.
BO remaining 103[107, 111, 115, 119, 123, 125] sts in pattern.

Button Band:
With RS facing, beginning at upper corner of left front edge, pick up and k 73[75, 77, 79, 81, 83, 87] sts (approx. 4 sts for every 5 rows) along left front edge.
Work 5 rows in 1x1 Rib. BO all sts in pattern.

Buttonhole Band:
With RS facing, beginning at lower corner of right front edge, pick up and k 73[75, 77, 79, 81, 83, 87] sts along right front edge.
Work 2 rows in 1x1 Rib.

Buttonhole Row [WS]: Work 3 sts in pattern, [yo, k2tog, work 16(16, 17, 17, 18, 18, 19) sts in pattern] 3 times, yo, k2tog, continue in pattern to end.
Work 2 rows in 1x1 Rib. BO all sts in pattern.

Sew buttons to button band opposite buttonholes.
Sew sleeves into armholes.
Sew sleeve seams and side seams.
Weave in any remaining ends.

ABOUT THE DESIGNER

Hélène Rush is the mom of both Kelly-Anne, the model in the photos, and Knit One, Crochet Too, the yarn company. Her sons Jonathan and Benjamin both work with her but have yet to be converted into knitters (they do however know their yarns!).

She’s been living with yarn since learning how to knit from the nuns in Montreal in first grade. She must have been a very good girl because she gets to play with yarn all day now.


coffee cup cozy

freakapotimus.com » Blog Archive » Quick & Basic Coffee Cozy

Quick & Basic Coffee Cozy

I had some extra Swish left over from another project, and I thought: hey! What could I made with this? Something fast and simple, but also very useful. Coffee cozy time!

Coffee Cozy

I’ve found it best to put the cozy on the cup before filling it with coffee. I may modify the pattern to accommodate this issue.

Materials

  • KnitPicks Swish Lemongrass Heather
  • set of 4 US size 6 DPN (or 40″ circ for magic loop)

Gauge

6 sts + 9 rows = 1″ on US size 6 needles

Sizes

Stretchy enough to fit one to-go coffee/tea cup

Directions

Cast on 46 stitches and join in round.

Knit 4 rounds in K1P1 rib.

Knit 2 rounds.

Next round: K1 K2tog [K to last 3] SSK K1
Next 3 rounds: K

Repeat the above 4 rounds 4 more times.
(There should now be 36 stitches on the needles.)

Knit 1 more round.

Knit 4 rounds in K1P1 rib.

Finishing

BO all stitches and weave in ends. Enjoy your coffee!

for those of you that don't know what to do for Halloween yet...

I found myself wondering just what I could do with all that cheap, bright acrylic yarn one finds in craft shops. I also found myself thinking about Halloween. Add in a bad hair day and this is what I got.

This wig is worked from the bottom up, the bound off edge is the center part.

model/photos: Megan Reardon


SIZE
One size fits all/Adult
FINISHED MEASUREMENTS
8 inches wide at widest point when flat (unstretched)
11 inches long when flat

MATERIALS

[ MC] Red Heart Kids [100% acrylic; 5oz.]; color: Pink, shade 2734

1 pair US #8/5mm needles
1 set of 5 US #8/5mm double-pointed needles OR
2 US #8/5mm circular needles (any length)
4 stitch markers, 2 each of 2 different colors
Tapestry needle

STITCH PATTERNS

[Knitty's list of standard abbreviations can be found here]

2 X 2 rib
Row 1 [RS]: K3, [p2, k2] to last st, k1.
Row 2 [WS]: P3, [k2, p2] to last st, p1.

GAUGE

28 sts/22 rows = 4 inches in 2x2 rib (unstretched)

DIRECTIONS
Wig
Using straight needles or one set of circulars, cast on 96 sts.
Work in 2 x 2 rib until the piece is as long as the distance between the bottom of your chin, and your eyebrow (about 6.5"), ending with a WS row.
NOTE: The extra stitches along the edge of the work will balance the width of the first and last ribs. Later on, when the bangs are added, these stitches will become parts of purl ribs.

If more length in the main body of the wig is desired, work more rows at this point.
Next row [RS]: work as before, but slip the first and last stitch.

Bangs
With RS facing and using backward loop cast on, loosely CO 32 sts. The backward loop cast on allows for plenty of stretch.
Div sts onto DPNs or circulars and join to work in the round with the RS of the wig facing out, being careful not to twist stitches. The first stitch will be a p; follow rib pattern after that.
Work in 2x2 rib for 10 rows.
NOTE: The extra stitches that were at the beginning and end of the work up to this point become parts of purl ribs where the bangs join - see diagram A below for example.

If more length in the bangs is desired, work more rows at this point.

Work Decreases
Using diagram B below as a guide, rearrange stitches on needles and add stitch markers.
(Diagram B shows placement for both double-pointed and circular needles.) When placing markers, begin counting from center front of bangs, which falls in the center of a purl rib.

NOTE: Decreases will be worked identically at the front and back of the wig. Markers have been placed one stitch away from decreases instead of directly next to decreases, for ease of working.

Begin decrease round by working decreases over bangs.
Decrease Round
*Work in rib as set to marker color 1, slip marker, k1, ssk, rib as set to 3 sts before marker color 2, k2tog, k1, slip marker.
Rep from *. Work this round every round until 6 sts rem between markers.
Work to marker color 1 (right edge of bangs section).
Next Round: *Sl marker, k1, ssk, k2tog, k1, sl marker, [p2tog, k2] to 2 sts before next marker, p2tog. Repeat from * once.
Remove st marker, k1, sl1, transfer the first half of the work (between center front and center back) to one DPN or circular needle, removing st markers, transfer the second half of the work to a second needle, cut yarn, leaving a 2-foot length for use in binding off.
Carefully flip work inside out, in preparation for working a 3-needle BO from the WS.
Work 3-needle BO tightly. (A crochet hook works well in place of a third needle.)

FINISHING

Weave in ends and turn right side out

ABOUT THE DESIGNER

Katherine Burgess- Bow-knot Scarf

Tuck-in or Bow-knot Scarf


Katherine ScarfThis may be called a "Tuck-in or a Bow-knot" scarf.

This little scarf uses less than 50 grams of knitting worsted. You can knit it in any type of yarn, but for an adult, I prefer worsted weight.


Using 4.5 mm straight needles, cast on 3 sts.

Row 1: Increase 1 st in the first st. K to end of row.

Repeat 1st row to 24 sts on needle.

K 19 rows in garter st.

To make slot: *K1, slip next st onto a stitch holder, keeping this stitch at the back of the work. Repeat from * to end of row. Stitches are divided, half on needle and half on stitch holder.

Working on stitches on needle, work 16 rows in k1, p1 ribbing. Break yarn, and leave these sts on a spare needle.

Slip stitches from holder and work 16 rows in k1, p1 ribbing. Do not break
yarn.

Next row: (To close slot and increase stitches). *K tog 1 stitch from needle and 1 stitch from spare needle. Knit next stitch from front needle, then next stitch from back needle. (This increases 1 stitch.)

Repeat from * until there are 2 stitches left on each needle. (K tog one stitch from each needle) twice. 17 stitches on needle.

K even in garter stitch until work measures about 12 inches from slot closing. (I tend not to measure this, but to wrap it around my neck to make sure that it is long enough when stretched slightly.)

Next row: *K1, K2tog Repeat from * to last two sts. K2. (12 sts)

Work 16 rows in K1, P1 ribbing.

Next row: Increase 1 st in each st across row.

K 19 rows garter stitch.

Next row: K1, K2tog, K to end of row.

Repeat this row to 3 stitches on needle. Cast off.

Sew in ends. Enjoy!

Katherine Burgess- Bow-knot Scarf

"that's a wrap"


A little something to warm you up on a crisp fall day or when the boss hasn't figured out how to turn down the air conditioner.

Use it as a lap blanket or something to snuggle around you and your sweetie to keep slightly toasty at the game, pair it with jeans and a sweater or an elegant dress and make everyone think you're oh-so-stylish and talented with this simple tweedy lace wrap.

models: Lori Tiller [with Sydney Tiller on cover] photos: Danielle Schoonover


SIZE
One
FINISHED MEASUREMENTS

Length: 67.5 inches
Width: 18.75 inches

MATERIALS

Reynolds Mandalay [100% silk; 98yds/88m per 50g skein]; color: #32 "oatfield"; 8 skeins

24-inch US #8/ 5mm circular needle
Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

GAUGE

18 sts/20 rows = 4" in stockinette stitch

STITCH PATTERN

[Knitty's list of standard abbreviations can be found here]

Feather Pattern (worked over multiple of 6 sts plus 1)
Row 1: K1, [YO, k2tog tbl, k1, k2tog, YO, k1] to end.
Row 2: P all sts.
Row 3: K1, [YO, k1, sl1, k2tog, psso, k1, YO, k1] to end.
Row 4: P all sts.
Row 5: K1, [k2tog, YO, k1, YO, k2tog tbl, k1]
Row 6: P all sts.
Row 7: K2tog, [k1, YO, k1, YO, k1, sl1, k2tog, psso] to last 5 sts, k1, YO, k1, YO, k1, k2tog tbl.
Row 8: P all sts.
Rep Rows 1 through 8.

DIRECTIONS

CO 85 sts.
Work 3 rows in garter st.
Switch to Feather Pattern and work in patt until piece measures approx. 67 inches, ending with Row 8.
Work 3 rows in garter st.
BO all sts.

FINISHING

Weave in ends. Block if desired.

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