Change Challenge 2016

As 2016 approaches I want to challenge you to the "Change Challenge". What is the "change challenge"? First let me tell you a story. When I was pregnant with my daughter I began saving my change shortly into my pregnancy and in the end I had around $70 dollars saved! I made sure to pay with bills in order to get change...and save it. So, here are the rules of the "Change Challenge".

Aspen Claret Hat

You will need:
Two color choices I used Red Heart Super Saver Aspen Print and Claret.
All In One Loom
Stitch Markers
Row Counter
Looming Tool
Crochet Hook

Drum Roll Please!

Drum roll please!!!

The blanket came out a little shorter than I wanted due to not having more of the colors to do full rows with but I am very happy with it. My bed is queen size and as you can tell it isn't too much smaller.

The "Ugly" Blanket

Update: 10-24-15 I have stopped calling this the "ugly" blanket. The main reason I did is the first yarn I used is very different than the rest. (It is brighter in person.) But I love the way it is working out. My daughter is helping with what color goes next and is trying to decide if she wants it when done or if she will let me sell it. Kids! Also, I have some of the colors I have used left to incorporate them in the blanket more as I go along. I can't wait for this to be finished! 

This is turning into an interesting project! I decided to work on a blanket/throw for my living room done in crochet. I have shared a couple pictures as I have changed color on my Facebook page. I wanted to share the full progress so far. So, here it is!

Bacon Chili

Yup! I had some bacon I needed to use up so.....

The Eight Step Hat Written Pattern

I wanted a, hopefully, easy pattern for everyone to follow.

Mint Nut No Bake Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup Finely Chopped Walnuts 
• 2 cups Emerald Cocoa Almonds Chopped (in food processor)
• 1 package Mint Chocolate Chips
• Gulf Wax (about an inch by inch square) 
  

**You will need a double boiler of some sort. Or you can place water in a pan (about an 1-2 inches) then place another pan inside or a metal bowl like I did. Make sure to use a pot holder when handling the metal pan on top!

Sorry for mess. 

Directions

1. Melt wax, use a spatula to move it around.
2. As wax is melting, use a food processor to chop up the nuts.
3. Once wax is almost fully melted, add Mint Chocolate Chips in, stirring to help the process. 
4. Once chips are fully melt add in the nuts
5. Mix well
6. Spoon onto wax paper 
7. Enjoy!

~ I might make them more bite size next time. 

PLEASE SHARE!

Update

I think it's time for an update to all my faithful loomers out there. Lately I have been asked when I will I be making new videos and the answer is simple, when I can so please bare with me. Things around here have been crazy since my husband and I split up last year (officially divorcing in the future). Because of this, I have been on a roller coaster of emotions which do contribute to whether or not I am feeling "camera ready". Plus, I have been looking for work and ways to bring in extra income since he left.

It's been hard but I am doing the best I can with what funds I have through my videos, blog and other support I receive. This is part of the reason I share older videos a lot to allow new followers to see what I have done in the past. Thank you for wanting more videos/patterns; it warms my heart that people appreciate and learn from me. Also, thank you for "liking" and "sharing" my videos and posts. I would not have been able to continue without the support of all of you!

Savory Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken

Ingredients:

On The Beaded Path Cowl (or Scarf) Pattern

Remember there is a video of this as well click here!

Need:

• Yellow Knifty Knitter or similar gauge loom
• 420 pony beads at least, more if you want a longer scarf. 
• Plastic Needle (for adding the beads)
• Looming hook
• Crochet Hook
• Yarn (weight of #4)
• A nice cup of coffee....just kidding.

Thrifty Find: A Ring

I haven't talked about many "thrifty finds" lately but this past weekend I went to a craft show and they had a cool ring for only a $1.00!  Let me know what you think of my find:

A Easter Thrifty Find

This thrifty find was too cute to pass up given Easter is around the corner.

A cute handmade bag perfect for the Easter bunny to leave a few goodies in. It is about 15 inches tall. The handles will slip over a doorknob perfectly.  The back is just as cute.

Confession :(

I want to apologize for the fact I haven't made videos in a while. I am still adjusting to what is going on in my life right now. (Click here for more info) My mood to be on camera is slowly coming back and I want to thank everyone for their support.

A Couple (Non Looming) Tips

Today I have been cleaning and gearing up for next week when I decided I wanted to share a couple tips. I'm sure I'm not the first to do these but figured it is still worth sharing.

Raven Child Cowl

My daughter is 7 and I wanted to make her a snug cowl for in the morning when it can be very cold waiting for the bus. She wanted it in black hence the "raven" naming of it. She did like it more than the face she is giving in the picture--not quite a morning person.

Single Serve Roasted Potatoes

Kale Alfredo

**I have never had kale before but decided to give it a try today.**

• You will need:

• 2 1/2 cups Kale
• 1 1/2 tsp Minced Garlic
• 1 cup (dry) Penne Pasta, like Ronzoni Healthy Harvest Ancient Grains
• 1/2 cup  of a Light Alfredo sauce, like Prego Light Homestyle Alfredo
• 1/2 tsp Italian Seasonings
• 3 tsp Extra Light Tasting Olive Oil, I used Pompeian brand 
• Dash of salt and pepper

Poker Anyone?

A week or so ago I picked up this bag of generic poker chips for $0.89.

Now the question is what to do with them?