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Crock Pot Chicken With Mushroom Wine Sauce
Ingredients
1 10.75oz. can condensed cream of mushroom soup
¼ cup onion minced
1 tsp dried parsley
¼ cup white wine
¼ tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp milk [any kind]
½ cup mushrooms sliced
½ tsp black pepper
4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves
- Mix together the soup, onion, parsley, wine, garlic powder, milk, mushrooms and pepper. Place chicken in the crock pot, covering with the soup mixture and cook on low setting for 5 to 6 hours, OR on High setting for 3 to 4 hours.
Makes 4 servings
Coats has up a really cute pattern I wanted to let you all know about. It's a crocheted Snowflake Garland. Now I'm not a very Christmasy person mainly because of the over commercialization but I think this is really adorable. You could decorate your windows or your tree with it. I was also thinking if you have some white plastic shopping bags you want to use up you could make this garland out of plarn and even decorate some of your outdoor shrubbery. Now how is that for versatile and inspirational?
The 4th Lion newsletter for November is out. It features the introduction of 100% Cashmere from the new LB Collection. The free patterns include Fast, Easy Gifts to Make on a Budget but still coming out slightly heavy on the knitting side. I have to say that even though there are only 3 free crochet patterns as opposed to 5 knit patterns the crochet ones offered really do rock. The free patterns are as follows. Crochet: Driving Gloves, Ruffle Scarf & Graphic Squares Afghan. Knit: Easy Knit Mitten, Aran Cable Scarf, Hooded Knitted Sweater, Thigh High Socks & Lover's Knot Afghan. If you follow the Lola cartoon there are links to Amigurumi Turkey, Felted Fall Wreath & Cornucopia and Fruit however these patterns were given in a previous newsletter. If you missed those this is a good chance to get them. There is a link to their kids newsletter which shows how to Learn to Make Your Own Amigurumi. For the kit sale of the week you can get 50% Off their Knit Stained Glass Hat & Scarf pattern. The Trim of the Week crocheted Lattice FringeHappy Thanksgiving!
Kingdom Of Style has a really cool and inspirational post up about a fiber terrific movement of Crocheted and knitted graffiti. I find this strangely attractive. Covered trees, statues and even a deserted gas station. I especially like the trees. Talk about tree hugging. What could be cooler than some crochet love for your tree? Pretty darn cool I say and it sure beats painted names all over everything. Now you probably don't want to use your most expensive hand spun but wouldn't just a little covering somewhere with some of your scrap yarn be something? What do you think?
Curbly has up a very keen post about her friend that made a blanket of knit circles with crochet edges that were crocheted together. Get some inspiration and feel the luv of Crochet and knit joined together in harmony when you read about Joy's Circles of Blankety Goodness.
Getting Loopy number 31 hosts Kristin Omdahl talking about her Wrapped In Crochet Book. Sorry this is a quickie but I'm up to my ears in moving duties. Please keep supporting Loopy in my absence.
Hop on over and check out of the archive if you didn't get to hear it. Links and all the info can be found at Getting Loopy. [G.L. link in this posts header and also on the right sidebar]
I just got my January issue of Crochet! and I've had a bit of time to page through before posting my comments. This is just a review through Rabbit9's eyes and not meant as any criticism to unpicked items. I'm just highlighting the patterns and articles that especially appeal to me.
Articles:
Elegant Hooks: Crochet With Comfort: This is a little review of Elegant Hooks made by Al and Bella Bourassa for people that have join or muscle pain that makes it hard to hold a regular hook. You get one handle and the hook part is interchangeable coming in a set of 6 plus an accessory bag and a few replacement O-rings. You can also get additional hooks separately.
Secrets for Seaming Success: Several methods of joining pieces are discussed here. A very beneficial article for both beginner and advanced crocheters including pictures so you can see what they are doing as well as text descriptions.
Crocheting Socks That Fit: Need I say again that socks in crochet rock? Ok well they do so there and if you are having trouble getting yours to fit right this article is one you need to read. It goes through how to measure and how to adjust by shoe size. If you want to make the kind of socks you can wear in your shoes & fit to your actual feet and legs check this article out.
Patterns:
Threads of Compassion Scarf by Bendy Carter: Not only is the scarf lovely but it can be donated to the charity Threads of Compassion which provides scarves for the victims of sexual violence.
Striped-Yoke Top by Melissa Leapmin: This is a very pretty sweater that I think would look good on almost any body type. Depending on the yarn you choose and what you wear it with I think it could go from casual to slightly dressy.
Mens Hooded Cardigan by Treva McCain: A simple but still elegant cardigan for the men in your life. Yes, that's right, men. So for all you out there wanting to crochet something your man might actually wear I suggest you check this pattern out.
Zigzag Rib & Small Slanted Shells by Annie's Attic: This is a continued series. What's not to love about learning a new stitch you might be able to use in making up your own patterns. These two stitches are both very pretty in their own way Zigzag Rib has an almost basket weave look. Small Slanted Shells has almost a vertical bullion look to it. Sorry but that's the closest I can get to a description. You just have to see this one to really appreciate it.
Fair Isle & Easy Breezy Socks by Janet Rehfeldt: As you know I so dig crochet socks. For so long I could only find knitted patterns and I knew there must be a way to crochet them. Actual socks not the slipper things. This article has 2, count 'em 2 patterns to choose from. I say why choose, make both and Show that cool socks can be crocheted too, not just knit.
Continental Cable Scarf by Peter Franzi: Ok you scarf makers get your hook out because this one rocks. I'm not a huge fan of post stitches. Normally I think it's an attempt to make the look of knit cables in crochet but it doesn't quite work for me. This pattern however has a much better look than most crochet "cables" to me. It is very classy and I have to give all kinds of props to Peter. I'm also personally glad to see more men getting into crochet.
Black & white Hat & Solid Hat by Sharon Mann: For me hats rank even higher than socks and these two are beauties. Rounded hats with brims. The B & W has a very elegant stripe and buckle that I think is just beautiful and the solid is a fun pattern with a flower with the stem going around as the band. I think it would make a great summer sun hat.
Sampler Shawl by Kim Guzman: The name says it all. Large pattern squares and solid squares teamed up with a beautiful scalloped edging to make this really beautiful shawl. Definitely a must do for someone special on your gift list.
Letter-Baby Jacket by Brandee Fondren: This is really cute and classic version of a letterman jacket for a child. This would be great if you are looking for a pattern for young boys. The sizes are for 6 to 24 months.
Those are my personal hot picks for this issue but there are many more that I did not mention. My congrats to every designer in the issue for their patterns and pushing through to make crochet fun and fashionable.
Pomegranate Apple Crisp
Ingredients:
4 medium apples peeled cored and sliced
½ pomegranate seeds - skin and light colored membrane removed so it's just the seeds
½ cup brown sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
½ cup rolled oats
½ cup all purpose flour
½ cup sugar
½ cup unsalted butter melted
- Preheat the oven to 375o F and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Mix together the apples, pomegranate seeds, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spread evenly into the baking dish. Stir together the oats, flour and sugar and rub in the butter between your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs then sprinkle over the top of the fruit. Bake for 45 minutes or until the apples are soft.
Makes 8 servings
I improvised this design of a hot/cold roll as a gift for a friend. It's crocheted in a simple shell stitch and filled with sterilized cherry stones. I used Bernat Satin in colorway jade and an H hook. As the name implies it can be put in the refrigerator to be used cold or heated in the microwave to be used hot. The embroidery I did by hand on a handkerchief to wrap the roll in and tied with a ribbon for gifting in place of wrapping paper. Eco friendly and beautiful if I do say so myself.
The 3rd Lion newsletter for November is out. It features a lot of knitting including a new knit-along, wrist warmers and knit trim. The free patterns include washcloths to crochet & knit. For the kit sale of the week you can get 50% Off their Crochet Hazelnut Scarf pattern. You can also share your story and your tips with others about how crocheting and/or knitting helps you deal with stress. Definitely another issue more geared to knit than crochet but what they do offer isn't bad.
I'm posting today about The Mother Bear Project. This seems a worthwhile charity to crochet for but I will bring to your notice that they only accept there bear patterns and you have to pay for the pattern but they do crochet as well as knit so if you want to pay a few dollars for their bear pattern and make a difference it's a good cause.
The Mother Bear Project is dedicated to providing comfort and hope to children affected by HIV/AIDS in emerging nations, by giving them a gift of love in the form of a hand-knit or crocheted bear.
Caron Yarns has up a very pretty pattern for a Pineapple Shawl. They have it made with their NatureSpun™ but it's not heavy. It's a very beautiful lacy and open pattern. It would be a nice pattern for those thinking of spring, like me.
This was a free pattern from Annie's Attic back in September and I've been working on finishing it. I did have to frog and re-do a bit. I did end up altering the pattern slightly. I left out the front post stitches on the round before last because I didn't like the way it looked as a personal preference. I also left off the last row because I have been making it as a gift and I just didn't have the time, I needed to get it mailed out and personally I thought it looked good as it is.
This is a quickie because I'm hurrying but I wanted to post something. Just a heads up, these are both PDF documents.
This 30th Getting Loopy show features the Simmons Sisters, Erika and Monika talking about their book Double Stitch: Designs for the Crochet Fashionista. You can check out the designs in the book here on their blog or sign up to receive Double Stitch news and updates by adding your name to their e-mail list. These ladies are really something else in crochet. After all not everyone has Macy's select their collection, gets awarded the Style Makers and Rule Breakers award by Fashion Group International, and has the Chicago Sun-Times call you "The Divas Next Door". Go give a listen and see why these ladies deserve so much credit for their cutting edge work.
Hop on over and check out of the archive if you didn't get to hear it. Links and all the info can be found at Getting Loopy. [G.L. link in this posts header and also on the right sidebar]
Hearty Roasted Squash Soup
Ingredients:
1½ lb. butternut squash halved and seeded
1 acorn squash halved and seeded
½ small spaghetti squash halved and seeded
3 tbsp butter
1 large onion chopped
3 cloves garlic minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger root minced
1 tsp curry powder
2 tart green apples peeled cored and chopped
2/3 cup sherry
5 cups vegetable broth
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp cayenne pepper or to taste
- Preheat oven to 400o F.
- Place the squash, cut side down, on baking sheets and roast for 45 minutes, or until flesh is soft. Scoop out the flesh into a large bowl. In a pot over medium heat melt the butter and saute the onion, stirring frequently, for 5 minutes or until tender. Stir in the garlic, ginger and curry powder and cook 1 minute then add the apples and sherry and simmer for 10 minutes, or until apples soften. Puree batches of the squash flesh and broth in a food processor or blender and transfer to a large soup pot. Puree the apple mixture and stir into pureed squash. Heat over medium heat and season with black pepper and cayenne, to taste.
Makes 6 servings
Today's pattern spotlight beams down on Coats And Clark's Sangria Shawl. Very pretty and I'm almost drunk just on that gorgeous color. I think this would make a great shawl to wrap up in during the nippy winter season or a really great gift for that always cold person on your holiday gift list. You know the one...Me! Ha ha, just kidding. 
The 2nd Lion newsletter for November is out and I'm sorry to say it's a little disappointing for the crocheter in my opinion. The focus this time is on scarves which if fine, But, take a look at the difference between the knit patterns which have some style and flare and the crochet ones which to me seem a little boring and basic with the styles chosen. Sorry but I don't really need a pattern to DC back and forth rows in the width of a scarf. No there is nothing wrong with beginner patterns. I'm all for more people learning to crochet. I just don't see an evenness in the presentation of style in this issue. To me it says look at the knitting, cables, ribs, waves, BAM! Oh yeah and here's some simple ones for you crocheters. I'm not feeling the luv for the hook. On the plus side If you follow the link for the Lola cartoon you will find 3 more patterns. The Crochet Luxury Hood has some real potential if you don't mind working with fun-fur. For the knitters there is the Furry Pillbox Hat & Santa Hats. The kit sale of the week is 50% off the Knit Wild & Woolly Hat & Scarf Set. The trim of the Week is the crocheted Soft Center trim. Go take a look and let me know what you think.
JournalNow did a very inspirational story about David Nifong called Blanketing the Babies. David has crocheted dozens of blankets and hats for charity. Not only is he an inspiration to all of us who participate in the fiber arts but he is a shout out to all those men out there that don't think real men crochet. He's done a wonderful thing to contribute to a worthy cause. Now go read his story.
I wont ask for them but if anyone wishes to pray for me I'd appreciate it. As some of you might know I have a disability. I have been praying to get into disability housing for some time. The lists are so long especially with all the budget cuts so it's a long wait that shouldn't be in the richest country as people call us. The Lord finally answered my prayers and one became available. Money will be tight for a while though I'm still grateful to get it. I have no family in the state so I'm not sure yet how I'm going to move to the next county where it is. I've been calling a lot of disabled info places and hopefully I can get something sorted out. I admit it's a little quick as I have to be moved by December which is going to make the holidays suck just a little more. I'm trying to look at it as a new start that hopefully will be for the best in the end. It's still a blessing for me and I will trust in the Lord for the rest while doing what I can do. I just wanted to let you all know if I'm not around so much that's why. I wont be blogging after the move until I get set up and if I can afford it. Once things settle I hope to meet any crochet people in the area. I'll probably make another post before I pack the comp but it's a heads up so folks know I haven't just disappeared. I really appreciate every one of you that have followed my blog and supported my first pattern. I'll be doing all I can to get back soon. Keep those hooks going and my prayers remain for each of you that the Lords great plan for you will be revealed in His good time.
Rabbit9
Newborns in Need is a Cristian charity that provides several services. Among those is providing afghans, blankets, hats and booties and many other basic essential baby items. Anyone looking to crochet charity items could do worse than check out their site, find a local chapter and get started if you feel you agree with what they are doing.
Next in my Pattern Picks series. This one is a really great pattern by The Purl Bee. For those who have trouble finding great patterns for guys [and who doesn't?] go check out John's Favorite Bucket Hat. A cool and functional pattern for the man/men in your life. Definitely a great addition to you Christmas Crochet gift list.
Loopy Monday is again upon us and thank goodness for it. This 29th Getting Loopy show features Robyn Chachula talking about her way cool book Blueprint Crochet. Robyn has designed for yarn companies, had patterns published in loads of faboo crochet magazines, she's got several very good books out besides this one and has appeared on Knit and Crochet Today on PBS which was the feature of last weeks Getting Loopy. Basically like many other of the crochet designers I don't know when she sleeps but we thank her for all she does. Seriously you have to go hear this one. Power to the granny square!!!!! See now you would get that if you hear the show. ;-)
Hop on over and check out of the archive if you didn't get to hear it. Links and all the info can be found at Getting Loopy. [G.L. link in this posts header and also on the right sidebar]
Saturday Bonus Post
Just in time for the holidays the folks at Interweave Crochet put together a free e-book of 5 gift patterns. Patterns include: Toujours Hat by Kim Werker, In a Jiffy Juggling Balls by Toni Rexroat, Peppermint Hat & Scarf by Marilyn Murphy, Green Market Bag by Laura Rintala, and Charlie Brown Baby Cardigan by Kat Pullen. Yes you have to register on Interweave but that is free too so go sign up. I don't know if it's a limited time offer or not so go soon and don't miss out.
Pumpkin Carrot Casserole
Ingredients:
8 medium carrots fully cooked and mashed
1 29 oz can pumpkin
4 tbsp brown sugar
¼ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
4 tbsp butter melted
2 tbsp rum (optional)
1 16 oz can whole berry cranberry sauce
- Preheat oven to 375o F and grease a casserole dish.
- Mix together the mashed carrots and pumpkin until blended. In a separate dish mix together the brown sugar, salt, pepper, butter and rum. Mix that into the carrot and pumpkin mixture until completely blended and then fold in the cranberry sauce. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and bake for 30 minutes.
Makes 8 servings
The 1st Lion newsletter for November is out and the Halloween fun has begun. In this issue you will find the Grace Scarf, amigurumi patterns for a Crochet Tom Turkey, a Crochet Cornucopia and a Crochet Wreath of felted leaves. There are also Afghans to Make in 6 Hours or Less, 2 are Crochet and 2 are the K word for those that run that bent. You can also get over 50% Off the current Kit which is also the K word but Rabbit9 does have fiber love for all that love us back so I'm mentioning the Knit Ermine Wrap. The trim this week is Knit Bobbles but you can also check the site for crochet trims so we are not left out. My personal pick is the amigurumi items. Very cute. Go look.
Can you say EWWW! Be careful out there and spread the word. It may be Seattle now but with factory farming things like this wont take long to spread.
Tests find drug-resistant bacteria in store-bought pork
Inspired from yesterdays Loopy guests I'm spotlighting a very nice throw pattern from the Crochet Today site called Easy Winter Throw. Lovely simple warmth that anyone would love to curl up with to read a good book or enjoy a hot mug of cocoa. They also have a few other free patterns on that link so take a look around and find something that appeals to you. 
Want to win up to $300? Got a hook and know how to use it? Then today's post is so for you. Boogie on over to Caron Yarns Naturally Baby Contest. Not only do you get a chance to win but they will donate money to benefit Project Linus so even if you don't win you still are doing something great for a child that needs it. That makes you a winner in my book every time. This is also open to knitters so if your fiber art runs that bent feel free to take a look.
Project Linus is a national non-profit organization with a two-fold mission: First, to provide love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need through the gifts of new, handmade blankets and afghans, lovingly created by volunteer "blanketeers". Second, it is the Project Linus mission to provide a rewarding and fun service opportunity for interested individuals and groups in local communities, for the benefit of children.
If you come to this blog you are probably a crafty person. Today is your chance to create something big. A better world. Do I really believe that? Yes! We have something in this country that some countries don't have. A chance to voice our choice. There are a lot of big issues this year and I'm sure you know what they are so I wont get into all that. This is your chance to voice who you think can create a better world for us all. No it will never be a perfect world or a perfect system but why throw away a chance to perhaps be taking a step to a better direction. All we can do is take one day at a time, one choice at a time. Every choice you have made in your life has helped to create the person you are today. You can choose to change anything you don't like about yourself or your life but you need to take a moment to make the choice and be committed to take one step after the next. This is our chance to say what direction we think our country's next step should be. My vote choice is obvious and I encourage others to check out Ralph Nader but even if that isn't what you think is right then get out there and say what you think. If you throw away your choice you have no right to complain and in my view you are no better than those leading our country in the wrong direction. Doing nothing is a choice to let what you think is wrong continue to go on. Maybe your choice wont win but trying to make a difference matters. Use your voice for choice! And don't forget to take your hook, those lines may be long.
VOTE!
[Nader] ;-)
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In an effort to reward those who vote on Nov. 4, Starbucks is pouring free coffee. Their ad (airing on YouTube and at their website) makes it clear. Come in on Nov. 4th, say, “I voted,” and grab your tall coffee, no money required. It's a simple gimmick to get people to vote. I think there's a bit more to it than that, however.
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That's right, I'm not to proud to bribe you with free coffee if it gets you off your tail even if it's icky Starbucks coffee. No offense I'm just a tea Rabbit9.
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People Fighting Back - Vote Nader
Because there ARE more than 2 choices!
Ralph has campaigned in all 50 states. Check out the AP story
Ralph Nader for President 2008 - Official YouTube Channel
The Trail Of Broken Promises By Matt Gonzalez
Ralph Nader has appeared in a Third Party debate at the City Club of Cleveland. C-Span taped the City Club of Cleveland debate and the City Club will live stream the event on their website.
Yeah!!! It's Loopy Monday again and this 28th Getting Loopy show featured Candi Jensen designer and Brett Bara Editor of Crochet Today magazine speaking about the new 2nd season of Knit And Crochet Today, that fabulous show for fiber loving people on PBS. You can find out if the show is playing near you by either the K&CT show link page or the PBS link page. Season 1 was really great and I'm really looking forward to this new season. How about you? The show was really great and they talked about everything from the TV show to the magazine, managing stash or the lack of it. Just boodles and boodles of stuff both funny and informative.
Hop on over and check out of the archive if you didn't get to hear it. Links and all the info can be found at Getting Loopy. [G.L. link in this posts header and also on the right sidebar]
Cheesy Pumpkin Casserole
Ingredients:
1 2lb. pumpkin
1 large onion finely chopped
2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
½ tsp cumin
¼ tsp white pepper
2 eggs
¾ cup milk [any kind]
¾ cup ricotta cheese - Preheat the oven to 375o F and grease a baking dish.
- Cut pumpkin in half, and remove seeds and cut into ¼ inch thick slices. Peel slices, and place pumpkin slices into a bowl. Toss with onion and melted butter, and season with cumin and white pepper. Arrange the slices in the prepared baking dish and bake for 30 minutes. Beat eggs with milk and cheese then pour mixture over pumpkin in baking dish and continue baking for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Makes 6 servings
