How to Cheer Up a Friend

Hi all!  I didn't realize it had been so long since I'd last posted.  All I can say is that it has been a busy month.  This post is dedicated to a friend who is in the hospital.  She was admitted the end of last week.  They're still not sure what is wrong, but they're running tests and hope to know something soon.  In the meantime, I thought I'd make her something to cheer her up.  Remembering a pattern I saw last year when I was in a tote-making-mood, I dug through my computer and found it.  The pattern is called Spring Petals Backpack and can be found at the Asparagus & Mayonnaise website.  I know, it's an odd title for a blog, but they have some really cute things on there!  The pattern for the backpack on the right hand side of the blog under Patterns.  You will most likely have to scroll down a bit to see it (it's near the bottom).  There is also a matching wristlet bag (The Dragon Egg) and a messenger tote (Spring Petals Messenger Tote), if you prefer those styles.  Below is the picture of the one I made for my friend:

I used her favorite colors.  I think it turned out adorable!  All I know is if she doesn't like it, it won't hurt my feelings.  That just means I'll get to keep it for myself!  What I liked best about this bag is that it crochets up so fast!  I started this bag Friday night about 7pm when I found out she was in the hospital, crocheted most of the day Saturday, and finished up the straps Sunday morning.  They give you two options on the straps, one crocheted and one knitted.  I'll guess the crocheted straps would work up faster, but I like the knitted I-cord ones myself and so that's what I made.  The bag is made out of the Sugar 'n' Cream cotton yarn from Lily, so it will wear well and wash up well.

I took inspiration from this bag and am in the process of making her a little bag for her carry change, cell phone, or cigarettes in.  I'm using size 10 crochet cotton and size 7 steel hook.  It's going a little slower than the bag, if you can imagine!  Working with that itty bitty yarn and hook...what can I expect.  It will also be all one color, a light pink, since that's what I had on hand.  I'm also making it oblong instead of round so it used for whatever.  I'll post a picture of it when it starts looking like something!

I'm also thinking of making her some slippers.  Found this great book on Annie's Attic called Big Foot Boutique.



These eight pairs of crochet slippers are for people of all ages!

We listened! Big Foot Boutique is the most requested Original by Annie pattern that our customers have asked us to bring back! This 24-page book of whimsical crochet accessories includes cowboy boots, house slippers, high top tennies, work boots, track shoes, Mary Janes, ski boots and tennis socks. All are made using worsted weight yarn. Sizes are written for child's S/M/L, women's S/M/L and men's L/XL.


The book comes in regular printed form and pdf electronic download.  If you've never been to Annie's Attic, you should check them out.  I've been buying patterns from them for over 30 years!  They are fabulous!

Well, almost time for me to get back to work.  Enjoy your week!