Blooming Granny Square Slippers

Over the weekend I spent a few hours going through my large tub of yarn.  I really only got about half way through sorting all the little balls I have left over from previous projects.  I had them spread out on the bed, sorting them into color groups so that I could have an idea of what was there and usable, and what could be relegated to small time waster projects.

Recently I've noticed the popularity of the color combination of yellow and gray.  The soft buttery yellow that I have was actually bought as a back up incase I couldn't find the yellow I actually wanted.  When my yarn was laid out I pulled the gray, white, and yellow together and started making some granny squares.  These were different than the traditional granny square as they have a flower as the center piece.  I didn't have a plan for these squares but I figured it would reveal itself.

In a completely separate event I was cruising Ravelry for pattern ideas.  I came across some granny square slippers that are posted on the Purl Bee.  I said to myself, "Self, you already have some granny squares made."  It turns out I had exactly the amount of squares made for the top of the slipper, and I made solid gray squares for the sole.

So here they are.  Sewing the individual squares together is a little tricky, but it's illustrated with photos in the pattern and slightly easier to understand than just words.  They are my first pair of slippers.  I honestly don't like to wear things on my feet, so I'm not sure how much they will get used, I suppose when it's really cold.

Next time I will use slightly heavier yarn than the gray I used.  Slippers wasn't my plan when I began.  I will probably also use a smaller hook, the holes in the squares are slightly larger than I would like.

As you can see, Popeye always has to get in on the picture taking.

SNOWFLAKES!

I'm honestly surprised I'm not seeing these in my sleep.

On December 3rd is the GRAND OPENING of Amy Clark Studios!  I was asked to contribute to the swag bags for the event and I crocheted 50 of these snowflakes.  Luckily by the time I was done I was not sick of them and crocheted several more for my Etsy Shop.

If you would like to take one home and live in the Columbus area you should head to the Gallery Hop in the Short North on Saturday and stop by Amy Clark Studios at 1242 N. High Street from 6-10 pm for a chance at a swag bag.

Or you can purchase one from my shop for $5 which includes shipping!!  I think it's a great deal.

Conundrum Update

So I've decided to keep this great mohair scarf.  Green is a color I've become pretty fond of recently, and it goes really nice with my gray peacoat.

Score one for me!

So You Want a Custom Item

I get messages and tweets all the time inquiring about having something specific made.  Out of all these requests, I may eventually make one or two items.  I wanted to make it easier for you all to actually make a request and for me to actually get paid.  So, I don't do this for the money, but I'm not going to lie that it's a good incentive to get things done.

I am asking that if you are interested in a custom item, please visit my Etsy shop to do so.  The link that you click on looks like this:

If you don't already have an Etsy account I highly recommend signing up for one.  There are all kinds of hand made goodies available for you to purchase.

Once the conversation is started through clicking on this link, I can gather the pertinent information to make your requested item. :)

The Crocheter's Conundrum

Anyone who makes anything has had this experience:

One day you conceive an idea in your head.  It's a good one, perhaps the best one you've ever had.  You gather your materials, and become even more excited as you find the exact things you are looking for to bring your concept from you head and into real life.

You work hard, you occasionally stall, but you are so behind this idea that nothing will prevent you from finishing it.

When the work is complete you are left with this amazing salable product.  And then you have a conundrum.

This beautiful piece that you brought forth into the world will now be heading off to undisclosed locations, and all you really want to do is keep it for yourself.

That is where I am today friends.  I made this beautiful mohair cowl, the whole time thinking about all the costumers who would jump at the chance to own it.  I found perfectly sized vintage buttons that completed the exact look I was going for.  But now all I want to do is wear it for myself.

I know that the occasional special treat is necessary.  But is this something I really need?  Probably not.

I'll let you know what I decide.

Shop The Pink Woobie!

A brand new inventory is up in my shop.  Check it out by clicking on the Shop link above or head on over to my shop on Etsy.

It's NANOWRIMO

Which means during the month of November I will be attempting to write a novel.  I attempted last year and did not finish the 50,000 words.  This year I hope that I will do better.  I haven't been doing the best with my 30 Things Before 30 list, but this is one that I can do from the comfort of my own home.  I hope to keep you posted here.

If you are interested in more information about Nanowrimo check out the webpage at www.nanowrimo.org

Coming Soon!!

Lots of exciting new information, shop items, and custom order options!!  Stay Tuned for NOV 2nd!!

Quick Update

Recently I've aggravated some nerves in my neck.. or something.  Not really sure what is up, went to the doctor today and didn't get many answers.  Just a steroid shot and some prescriptions.  As long as things stay status quo heading back to the chiropractor on Monday.

In the meantime I was suppose to head back home for a wedding, but the drive isn't going to be possible with the pain I'm in.  I'm also taking a few days rest from crocheting to give my muscles a break.

This has resulted in a large amount of boredom.  So here's a picture of Popeye sitting in my lap while I use the interwebs.  He's pretty cute.

30 Things About My Illness You May Not Know

It's Invisible Illness Week this week, which is fitting since I feel the worst I've felt in a long time.  I'm sure you've noticed the lack of quality posts lately.

I did this a few years ago, but a lot has changed since then, so here is a new list of

30 Things About My Illness You May Not Know:


1. The illness I live with is: Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
2. I was diagnosed with it in the year: 2008
3. But I had symptoms since: My entire life.
4. The biggest adjustment I’ve had to make is: Not physically being able to do things I use to love (ex: backpacking, rollercoaster riding, etc.)
5. Most people assume: Most likely people probably assume that I'm exaggerating about the pain and fatigue, but I promise I'm not.
6. The hardest part about mornings are: Actually waking up and moving.  I am so exhausted in the morning, and seriously stiff and sore from pain.
7. My favorite medical TV show is:  Can't say that I watch any medical TV shows anymore.
8. A gadget I couldn’t live without is:  Oh my wonderful wonderful MacBook Pro.  Her name is Samantha and she is wonderful.
9. The hardest part about nights are: Getting comfortable and actually falling asleep.
10. Each day I take __ pills & vitamins. Currently I take 3 prescription medications, and am working on a new vitamin regimen that so far consists of 9 pills and a powder to drink.
11. Regarding alternative treatments I: As far as I'm concerned when it comes to Fibro, there is no such thing as "alternative".  I see the chiropractor, and get massages when I can.  I would totally consider acupuncture.
12. If I had to choose between an invisible illness or visible I would choose:  Oh goodness, I wouldn't want to choose.  I feel grateful on a daily basis that my illness does not threaten my life.  As long as I'm still alive I am still living.  
13. Regarding working and career:  Been out of the working world for 4 years now, but seriously want to return to something low key.  I honestly don't have any serious career aspirations, which makes me incredibly sad.  But I love helping people learn about the things that I love, and that seems to be pretty fulfilling.
14. People would be surprised to know: I'm not really sure.  I'm pretty open and honest about everything, so not sure what would be a surprise.
15. The hardest thing to accept about my new reality has been: Not being able to keep up with my peers.  I can deal with the pain and the fatigue, but I've been extremely lonely.
16. Something I never thought I could do with my illness that I did was: I rode in a 13 mile charity bike ride.  So fun, and hurt for days.  But best day in several months for sure.
17. The commercials about my illness: Make me really angry.  This might not be the popular opinion but people in commercials look and act nothing like me.
18. Something I really miss doing since I was diagnosed is: I miss school a lot.  I loved learning and discussing what I learn with my classmates.  Also miss eating things with gluten in them.
19. It was really hard to have to give up: I don't think I made a conscious decision to give anything up besides gluten, which sucked but wasn't hard because I started feeling better almost immediately. 
20. A new hobby I have taken up since my diagnosis is: CROCHETING!! One of my favorite things in the world.
21. If I could have one day of feeling normal again I would:  Spend it with friends outdoors.
22. My illness has taught me: To not be afraid to ask for help.
23. Want to know a secret? One thing people say that gets under my skin is: When people say "glad you are feeling better" when they see me.  Just because I'm out in public doesn't mean I feel remotely well.
24. But I love it when people: give me hugs and ask how I am.
25. My favorite motto, scripture, quote that gets me through tough times is:  Man I really don't have one of these right now.  It's always been Philippians 3:14, and haven't really had the need to contemplate anything new.
26. When someone is diagnosed I’d like to tell them: There are good days to go along with the bad days, and although bad days seem to be way way more in number the good days do exist.  (see number 16)
27. Something that has surprised me about living with an illness is: The cost of medical care sucks, a lot.  And healthy people don't seem to understand that.
28. The nicest thing someone did for me when I wasn’t feeling well was: My husband Ryan does amazing things for me on a daily basis.  However, my friend Jenni has sent me TWO packages from conventions she went to this summer, and that has been amazing. One was Amanda Tapping's autograph from the convention I really thought I was going to go to till the end of July.
29. I’m involved with Invisible Illness Week because: Not really involved outside of this blog post this year, but wanted to get some words out there.
30. The fact that you read this list makes me feel: loved.

Granny Circle Placemats

In June the Craft blog brought to my attention this neat pattern found over at The Purl Bee.

I knew I had some weddings coming up and thought that a set would make an excellent gift.  I headed over to my favorite yarn shop and then saved the pattern onto my Kindle.

They were easy and quick to make.  The pattern was certainly well written.  I chose a slightly heftier cotton yarn than what is recommended, but I think that a lighter weight yarn would make them just as nice.  I chose a color combination that is fairly neutral and inverted the colors, making the darker the primary color as to hide inevitable stains.

I didn't finish the set of four before the wedding, only because I'm a procrastinator, but the first two came out great!  I plan on mailing the rest of the set when I get them finished.  I totally recommend you trying out this pattern.

Summer Photos

Summer, a set on Flickr.

Last summer I wrapped everything up with one post of pictures from the summer.

This summer I've been busy and my blogging has taken a back seat. Mostly because I'm trying to live a little. All part of the embracing life with chronic pain thing.

So I wanted to send you my photo set from Flickr.

These are some great things that have been going on in my life.

View from the house

View from the house, a photo by thepinkwoobie on Flickr.

I am vacationing at my parents' house. Not too exciting, but restful.

Embracing Life with Chronic Pain: UPDATE

This is an update on a series I wrote in February.  You can find  them here. 

Several months ago I wrote about how I was embracing my life with chronic pain. This update is to tell you that this change in perspective has become a positive change. Shortly after writing in February I did struggle with pain and fatigue. The rainy gray days of spring, with monstrous storms and unpredictable patterns all across the US made themselves known with large amounts of pain in my entire body.

March and April may have been rough, but it seemed to go by quickly, and I really didn’t do much of anything to speak of. And now, with the sun shining, and the weather warm and slightly more predictable I am certainly feeling much better. I have been able to exercise and get out and about with friends.

Assisting with my determination to enjoy this life I have has been my trusty “30 Things” list. I’ve accomplished several (and will be updating about them soon), and have plans for many more. There is no shortage of people who have been participating in these things with me.

I’m writing this from one of my favorite places to come during the day time, Stauf’s Coffee Roasters. It’s an amazing place to people watch, get work done, eat a healthy salad, but mostly I just goof off. I rode my bike over here after visiting the library for a book on bicycle repair. My bike doesn’t need any repairs but I’m sure that if I keep riding, it will. Also, Ryan picked up a bike at the recycling center this spring, so I’m planning on attempting to fix that up. New hobbies can be fun!!

So is living life in chronic pain possible and enjoyable? Absolutely!  Is it easy?  No, but I keep trucking anyways. There is a certain kind of person I want to be. And I’m working to get there.

15. Participate in the Crawl for Cancer

Last weekend I participated in the Crawl for Cancer and it was a phenomenal success.

Crawl for Cancer is an event that raises money for life saving cancer research while having fun in a controlled and safe environment.  My team (we were pink and never really came up with a good name) visited 5 bars in 4 hours, socialized with other teams, and caused a general ruckus.

My main goal, besides donating some money to a great cause, was to spend time with some really great girls and have a fantastic weekend.  Those goals were achieved.

I totally stole this picture from Lina, I hope she doesn't mind. :)

Here is some of my team with our friend Linda (in red).  This was at the end of the tour while I was waiting for Ry to come pick me up and the other girls were heading out for some more fun.

The Woobie and the Tour de Cure

Click to visit my personal tour page

HELLO!!!
I'm wide awake entirely too early on this fine Tuesday morning half because of the heat, half because my legs are aching from a very busy long week.

I hope everyone had a safe holiday.

This particular post is about a little bike ride I will be taking in a few weeks.  I am riding in the Central Ohio Tour de Cure, an American Diabetes Association fundraising event.

I will be riding the "Family Ride" distance which is a little over 13 miles.  The rest of Team NESPAC will be riding 30 or more.

If you want to help us Stop Diabetes, take a look at my personal Tour page and make a donation.  The effort I am making for this one day ride is small compared to the effort people with diabetes make to be in control of their lives on a daily basis.

It's occurred to me...

That I suck at anything with the word "daily" in it.  I can't blog, I can't draw, hell I can't even crochet if it means doing it everyday consistently.

And I suppose that's one of the struggles of being the Woobie.

This isn't something that just occurred to me, and it's not the result of any of my chronic conditions.  It's just who I am.
Ask my mom how hard it was to get me to practice my clarinet on a daily basis.

In fact one of the only things I do do everyday is take my prescriptions, but I'm pretty sure that's because I've been doing it since I was 12, and the mom was a big part of starting the habit.

So that's why when you follow this blog I sometimes have something brilliant to say and other times I'm silent for so long.  It's really who I am and how I live my life.

Does it get me the most readers or help me make more money?  No, but that's not why I'm here.  I'm here to share experiences, entertain, and be your friend.

I know so many people who write amazing blogs and are really successful, and I'm so proud to call them my friends.  But that's not who I am I guess, and I still struggle with that.  I don't fit into some neat box of "blogger" or "writer" or "entrepreneur."  It's actually quite frustrating when so much of life is based on labels.

When you meet someone for the first time, they usually ask "What do you do?"  For me it's a rather long and complicated answer, so I usually reply with "nothing."  And that sucks, that's not what I want to say, but saying "I crochet" doesn't really get the response I'm looking for.  So for now, I start with "nothing" and explain more about my life to them.  Some people are really interested in hearing my story, and others can't be bothered.
I get discouraged.

I have no purpose for writing this other than to say this is where I'm at.  I have a killer headache and perhaps and ear ache today.  I am mostly just hanging with the cat and watching Netflix.  This really isn't by choice, but I play with the hand I'm dealt.  And if that's not enough for you, I'm sorry.  I can't be anyone other than who I am.

So for now, until I actually get to a point in my life where "daily" is actually possible.  I'm just me, The Woobie, your friend.  And I'm asking you to love me for that.

Crochet 101 Class!

I know that you've been dying to learn how to crochet!  So now is your chance!

Teaching other people to crochet has been one of my favorite things about this whole Woobie endeavor and am really looking forward to teaching in a class format.

I'll be teaching a very beginning crochet class at Wholly Craft this month.  It is a two session class and will take place on May 15th and 22nd, 1-3pm. 

I'll be teaching the basics of crocheting, including hook size, yarn weights, several basic stitches, as well as pattern reading.  You will be able to complete a scarf in class and be ready to tackle more advance projects by the end.

You can find all the information about the class on the Wholly Craft website HERE! 

New Items

HELLO WOOBIZENS (I just made that up, what do you think? Citizens of Woobieland)!!

I have some great new items in my Etsy Shop.  Lots of cute stuff for Spring!  So be sure to go check it out and tell your mother!! :)

If you live in Columbus and want to arrange for delivery instead of paying for shipping, let me know ahead of time!!

WINNER

The winner for the Beer Cozy give-away is Cheryl!!! YEAH! I'll tweet you.

Beer Critter Bottle Cozy Giveaway!!

You read that right.  It's time for another The Pink Woobie Giveaway!!

I've mostly been running these on Twitter, but have decided to take a crack at running this one from my blog. That way my facebook fans will have a chance to play too.

I love making things for people, it seriously brings a lot of joy to my life.  Even when I'm being paid for it, I just love being a part of something that brings happiness to people.

On Friday the 15th I will be posting some new items to my Etsy shop.  I also want to start working with the folks I've been meeting and talking to that have ideas for custom items but have not made an official request.  The Pink Woobie wants to help people acquire the awesome creations they are desiring.

There will be lots of creativity happening, and it may be a long process, but I plan on reaching my ultimate goal: to make my readers, my customers, their loved ones, and my loved ones HAPPY!


To kick the happy off I'm giving away another Beer Critter Bottle Cozy.  To participate in the contest reply to this blog post telling me something you would love to see me make and your favorite color by Midnight on Friday.  I will pick the winner by using a random number generator and you will win an octopus or cthulhu Beer Critter Bottle Cozy of your choice.

And just because you love me, you can spread the word!!!

Adventures in Spinning

I've certainly become very interested in spinning yarn and the different techniques and fibers that are involved.

I had purchased a skein of hand spun yarn from Three Ravens Art Yarns and Fibers on Etsy.  I made a fabulous dread band for myself that is so soft and holds my hair so well.

I had been talking with Xiane on Twitter so she was aware that I was learning to spin.  She sent me this great art batt with my package.  I don't have the tag on hand but she called it the Corbies art batt and I think it consists of merino wool, bamboo, and firestar.  I had only spun the most basics of fibers before, so this was certainly a challenge, but one I full heartedly took on.

I need to work on my drafting technique and my consistency, but I was extremely pleased how my skein came out.  I forgot to take a picture before I started to ball it, but here is how it turned out.

I really wanted to make something creative and different out of this and came up with a great design for a small phone pouch/clutch/cozy that I think looks incredible.  I don't have a smart phone, but I believe I made it to the dimensions to fit at least an iPhone and I'm sure many other models.  It also should hold some credit cards and your lipgloss.  I think the shiny black buttons I found in my button stash were perfect as well.  It will be for sale in my shop starting April 15th, but if you are interested in it you can contact me before then. :) 

I probably have enough yarn to complete another one but perhaps something slightly smaller. 

Keep in mind you can always make a custom order through the tab at the top.  A request for an order is just the beginning of the creative process and only an inquiry, you are not making any kind of financial commitment by requesting an order.