Living the Young Mommy Life!

www.theyoungmommylife.com

It's truly impossible to say enough wonderful things about the fabulous Tara Pringle Jefferson of The Young Mommy Life, and just as impossible to compile all the reasons why I love her into one blog post. She's just an amazing force of nature. You can't help but walk away fully inspired and ready to take on the world after reading her work, and you definitely feel a sense of pride to be a part of the community that she has built because she is a shining example of all the possibilities that await young motherhood in the world. I was just drawn to Tara from the very beginning! Not only was she a young mommy who welcomed her daughter while she was still a college student, just like myself, but she was living my journalist dream. She was a great example that motherhood isn't a road block to the dreams of young mothers, but rather, a driving force and a site of universal unconditional support. Even as a single mother of one, I could relate fully to this married mother of two because she goes hard. There is no going home for Tara!

I'm pretty sure you can imagine my feelings when Tara told me that "I" inspire her. It was humbling to be reminded that my little piece of experience in the huge pie of the young mommy community is noted, appreciated and most importantly, welcomed. Yesterday I was featured in The Young Mommy Life's 'She Inspires' series. Check me out, and check out all of the other brilliant pieces that Tara and The Young Mommy crew have to offer.

Appreciating You!

Because a little appreciation goes a long way. Take 10% off at Baby Squares for the month of September! Just use code APPRECIATE at checkout to apply the discount. Also, if you haven't already, "like" our Facebook page and suggest us to your friends!

Because a Girl Can Never Have Too Many Bows

While I'm anxiously awaiting a yarn shipment from Joann's Fabrics, I couldn't resist dipping into the yarn stash to play with those wee bits that seem to always be left over here and there. Some folks use those bits to create colorful grannies - I usually leave them be and even sometimes toss them. Well, not this time. I decided to make a few Hair Bows. The clip attachment at the back gave me the opportunity to practice my sewing!

This pair is now available in my shop, and I'm looking forward to working these up in more colors.

Fall Projects

The breeze is turning a little brisk outside, and back to school is right around the corner. We intend to be ready! Now that the clothes shopping is all done, its time to start thinking about cute accessories. We're doing scarves, hats, headbands, and hair bows around here. I finished up another circle scarf, this time in eggplant. Thought this was a beautiful warm color for Fall, and a little something special for all of my purple lovers out there.

Available for purchase at Baby Squares

I have more fun Fall colors in the works. Now that I'll be heading back to class, I think I might be sure to make one of these for myself!

Newness is in the Air

I decided to try something new. I decided to challenge myself a wee bit further. I haven't advanced to playing with thread or those magnificent seed beads yet, but I'm getting there - one new project at a time. This time around, its all about circles! Earrings and scarves.

I was pretty darn proud of myself once I finished these earrings. Not the most complex design, but crochet circles can go a looong way. I'm grateful to the amazing Renaissance Austin of Raghouse International for her circle and earring making tutorials. They were just what I needed to jump right in.

And, of course, a pair of squares!


Each pair of these earrings are now available in my Etsy shop.
http://babysquares.etsy.com

Those Special Touches

Sometimes, when a project takes a wrong turn, a little rethinking and creativity can save it from becoming a victim of the scrap pile. I was very proud of my very first puff stitch scarf, despite the fact that it felt more to me like a shawl than a scarf because of its width and length on an adult frame. What to do with a scarf that is too short when reworking it is out of the question? Well, just change the style of the scarf! I realized that I didn't get the look that I wanted from the ends of the scarf when I wrapped it around my neck, but a wrap here and a tuck there gave me the look that I had originally envisioned. I took both ends of the scarf and slip stitched them together to create a circle. Problem solved.


When it comes to headbands, fit is very important. The size of a headband can change with the thickness/weight of the yarn used and the size of the crochet hooked. This became apparent to me when I found my one-size-fits most two strand headband a lot larger with a different type of yarn. What to do if you don't want to purchase a pattern in the current headband style for your specific yarn thickness? One option is to work up a more functional style of headband.

A simple double crocheted headband can fit a range of heads, especially with elastic added! This headband can also fit a range of personal styles by attaching bows and flowers.

It can be both challenging and frustrating when one pattern no longer fits all, but the process of learning new ways of creating is the fun part.

Making a Statement

Breast is Best Beanie, $10 - available at Baby Squares

When it comes to crochet patterns, I haven't always been eager to jump right in, hook first. I learned to crochet by watching and following along, and I still learn that way, but every now and again, I have to strike out on my own, written instructions in hand. I fell in love with this beanie the moment I saw it in the Etsy shop Sara's Stitches. I thought this beanie was cute and creative, and it represents something that has a special place in my heart, the act of breastfeeding. When I recently revisited my shop's favorites, I noticed that, in addition to this hat, Sara was also offering a pattern. With new babies popping up in many of my friend's households, I thought this would be a great piece to learn to make.

If you're familiar with crochet patterns, then you know that crochet has its own language, full of a multitude of stitches and abbreviations. I have gotten much better at reading and following patterns since I began crocheting, but their are some that still pose a challenge. This hat is one of them. Nonetheless, despite still getting familiar with different weights of yarn, and how it affects the end result, I think I did pretty good one my first and second try!

Getting Ready for Fall

The clouds have been rolling in, and even a light mist has graced us here in the Bay Area, a sure reminder that Fall is right around the corner. My hook has seen a lot of yarn lately, and my project bag has been overflowing with hats. Its been a great way to use up yarn from my stash, and to get my Baby Squares fans thinking about keeping themselves and their kiddos warm in the coming months.


I think I'm starting to really enjoy making these hats with ear flaps. I didn't realize exactly how versatile a beanie could be!


I created this one with the bit of yarn I had left over from Emma's blanket.

And my hat collection wouldn't be complete without a tam or two, right? This is a personal favorite of mine. Whenever I'm having a not-so-good hair day or in a rush to get out the door, I can always throw on my tam, stick a couple of bobbie pins in to secure since I like my hat to sit half way my head, and go! I'm looking forward to adding a few new colors for myself.

The Etsy Vacation is Over

Hello approaching sunrise, we meet again...

I broke Her first basic rule for getting a full night's rest, but my project bag is no longer empty, and my Etsy shop is no longer on vacation. It's been a while.

A few new quick things.

Custom Ear Flap Hat w/Ties, done up for a friend who will
be trailing behind a little duck this Halloween.

A little Berrylicious Beanie with a little extra something-something, $10

Another go around with the flaps for a friend who wants to
match her nice blue set of wheels.

Drop by my shop and catch the sales! Layettes and blankets must find a new warm home!

I've Been...

Cooking

Roasted/baked chicken thighs and lemony brussel sprouts

Peach Pie

Crocheting

Diaper Covers: Newborn to 24mths $15

Playing with hair
Mourning the loss of my internet connection
Mourning the loss of my cell phone service
Mourning the loss of gas in my car's tank
Journal writing
Going for walks
Interior painting
Movie watching
Reading books
Visiting the local library
Visiting the local park
Going to therapy on a weekly basis
Spending time with friends
Job searching
Clearing boxes out of my living room!

What have you been up to?

Gift Making

Diaper Cover - Pattern by Yarn Blossom Boutique

Since I have two baby showers to attend this month, I thought that I should try out a new pattern. I've been interested in trying out diaper covers for a while now, so I invested in a pattern. I'm glad that I did. Though there is a lot of counting that has to be done to stay on track with this pattern, it was pretty easy, and I am very pleased with the result. Not bad for my first try. All I need to do to finish this cover off is add a couple of cute buttons.

A matching hat makes the perfect little gift.

Fall in Springtime

The beginnings of another multi-color for an expected April 27th arrival

While getting all caught up on season 4 of The Dead Zone via Netflix, I knocked out a good 22inches of this blanket last night. Who'd ever thought I'd rush to make another patience challenger? I think the secret to loving this pattern is the use of a J sized hook. With a J, I get a bigger gauge, which means a quicker finish. Big is good. I plan on finishing this blanket today, and possibly moving on to a little granny ripple practice for the sofa throw, followed by covering some more inches on Emma's blanket now that I'm stocked up a couple more skeins of yarn.

Check out this video tutorial for the granny ripple.

In Full Sprout

It all started last night - when my body refused to tire, and, well, my eyes refused to turn away from Youtube and my favorite natural hair blogs - and when a ton of product buildup and good old fashioned balls of lint prevented me from playing in Emma's hair. She was not a willing participant in pre-shampoo detangling activities. Left with nothing but hair on the brain, I decided to finally carve out a little of that elusive "me time".

• Spray bottle of water
• Duck bill clips
• Faux Denman brush (Goodie)
• Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel
• Annoyingly loud fan of bathroom light
• 2am rush of adrenaline
  

I've been working up the courage to throw these finger coils in my hair for the longest time. I attempted once, and quickly changed my mind as my arms quickly gave out. I think it was just the thought of possibly spending hours on my feet, in front of a mirror, tackling the crop atop this head. Way too much hair, and way too little patience - says the woman who has the child with the Angela Davis 'fro. But as my birthday approaches, I'm getting that itch for something new. The need is pushing me.

I was brave enough to complete the front. Did I mention that it was now 4am, and I would be needing to get up for work, and get Emma up for school at 7am? And I made the executive decision to only complete the front!


Good thing I know how to make cute accessories. This half head of coils was the talk of the office. Everyone was all about it, wanting to know how I achieved my look, one compliment after another. Insomnia never looked or felt so good. So, what did I do? Came home and completed the rest of my head!

Coils as random as the urge to start them

Notice I left the front of my head in an untouched coil out

Mistake? We shall see...

In Full Bloom

Sunshine must be near. A bag of yarn was thrown in my lap, and so I produced - was productive, and creative, and challenged my patience.


And two days and 31 inches later...


I ran out of yarn! But she sure is a beauty, with her many ends that needed to be weaved in. That is the point in which I challenged my patience. I didn't know if I'd be up to sticking with so many changes of color, but I did, almost without notice. The project just flowed. I hope she keeps her new little owner very warm and snug when she arrives in May.

While I was in the mood, I dug out Emma's blanket from my yarn trunk. Somehow, my 55 inch goal seems a little less stressful anxiety inducing.

And 27 inches later...


Yeah, I ran out of yarn! But at least I'm back in the groove.

Inspired by MACrochet on ETSY

Orange, black and white may make for an interesting choice of layette for a new baby, IF, said new baby was not born in the Bay Area, and didn't have San Francisco Giants fans who loved him.



I thought long and hard about what to do with these colors, that could work up pretty fast because I had a deadline, and that wouldn't be too overwhelming and too Halloween-ish. Then I spied a blanket worked up by MACrochet on ETSY and decided to go with it. I changed a few things such as border and color placement, while keeping the integrity of the fun Maze pattern. It was a hit.

Ask and Yee Shall Receive

Photo Credit

I'm probably one of the worst sales people ever. I don't like being one of those people that you hate to see coming. You know the ones. The ones who are shoving their books and products in your hands before your butt even hits the sofa. That's overwhelming, and I definitely can't be the moderator of an overwhelming experience. That relation can make direct selling a delicate dance. You want exposure, you want to let everyone know that you exist, and you want to make sure that they don't forget, all while not sounding like a broken record or having a one track mind.

My approach is much more subtle. I put it out there and wait for things to happen, which isn't always the best option either. Balancing the two is the key to getting products out there without cramping them down folks throats. Even though Baby Squares has been doing very well here at my 9-5, I am still reluctant at times to push, to advertise, to ask. The holidays have given me a reason to get over that. I am being told to push, to advertise, to ask, so why not? By taking that extra step, my business will not be on vacation this holiday season. I'm grateful for that.

Oh Merriment

Photo Credit

"So tonight gotta leave that nine to five upon the shelf,
And just enjoy yourself"
- Michael Jackson

I wasn't going to go.

Even though I was excited to see the email pop up in the inbox. I wasn't going to go. I wasn't going to ask if it was ok for me to go. Since I'm not exactly on the company's payroll, I wasn't sure if the invitation extended to me. My way of keeping a safe distance from this place and these people that I am really, really growing to like. My way of safeguarding myself against that familiar disappoint of thinking that I am a member of the team, only to be reminded otherwise. My very basic way of self sabotage. Apparent because I am the only person that I would be kidding by believing that I did not want to go. I love holiday office parties! I've gotten to hang with my bosses and co-workers in a more relaxed setting, get to know their families, gotten gifts and let's not even get started talking about that nice holiday bonus check, what's not to love about holiday parties?

I wasn't going to go.

But, my co-workers kept coming in, one by one, asking me if I was going, telling me that I should go. And when I asked the office manager if that invitation extended to me, her reply was "of course!" I was glad I went. The glass of wine with management was nice, meeting the husbands and wives was great, and getting Baby Squares orders in the process was the best. A true lesson to self to see every single opportunity, no matter how small, as one that can be beneficial. Lesson learned.

In Baby Squares News...

Brimmed Beanies. Sizes 0-3mths and 6-12mths shown. Pattern courtesy of Crazy Socks Crochet.

I can cross another one off the list. Another pattern successfully read and executed, and well received, as I had just churned out a few samples of this hat and got 2 orders as soon as the photos hit the Baby Squares fan page on Facebook. Those hats are now warming their new owners heads! There is nothing greater than a happy customer, especially when that customer is a wee one.

I'm thinking of investing in a better camera soon. With this winter weather and my schedule, its just not possible to always get the best shots, in the best locations, exactly when I want them to be done. My camera does not take the best indoor pictures. But, I'm not gonna let that stop me from sharing my pieces or listing them. These hats are now available in the Facebook Storefront. I'm hoping to spend some more time with them as we head into winter break. Emma really wants one. I'll be finishing up the majority of my Christmas crafting, and making a few donation pieces too.

Chasing the Holidays

I'd almost forgotten just how much I love bows. It's what I spend the most of my time on when I'm doing holiday gift wrapping. I'll surround myself with a bag of the colorful adhesive kind, like a little kid, picking through them, matching them up with my wrapping paper selections. Then I'll grab some ribbon and a pair of scissors, curling away for the finishing touches.

I'd also forgotten that learning how to make them with yarn was on my to-do list, until I came across the Creative Yarn blog. Homegirl makes some really cute stuff, and is generous enough to share her patterns. I am more of a video tutorial girl, which is why I completely failed the first time around at making this cute headband, but I eventually got it! For practice, I added one to my hats.




Since we have officially entered the slow season here in the office, I had plenty of time to try, try, try until I got it just right.


Last night I whipped up a couple in Wine and Berry. They are really cute and functional. I am hoping to add these to Baby Squares for the holidays. In between churning out some beanies for my little boys (my shop is really quite sexist isn't it?).



What do you think?