The Knitted Scarf that Reignited My Desire to Master Tunisian Crochet

The beautiful knitted Sophie Scarf has taken the yarn art world by storm. This is a retro style scarf with a modern, knit pattern.  This scarf reminds me of fashionable women in the 1950's, women such as Audrey Hepburn, and has reignited my desire to build my Tunisian crochet skills. 

Knitted Sophie Scarf

As far as I can determine, the original Sophie Scarf knit pattern was created and offered by Petite Knit.  It is no wonder that this small scarf, with a pleasing shape, and I-cord edging became popular. It is a handmade item that many people would choose to wear. It is functional and pretty. 

Of course, with all things viral or popular, the copycat versions appeared overnight. 

If you are a knitter, or if you are a person who supports small business, I hope you will find Petite Knit and use her pattern or support her by interacting on her social media pages. I will include those links below.

Crochet Scarf Versions

I enjoy crocheting. There are many beautiful crochet stitches and a vast variety of patterns available from beginner to expert. There are some crochet Sophie Scarf (or skinny scarf) copycat patterns that I like. Some of those feature ribbing, thicker yarn, and bigger stitches. I have plenty of those patterns saved for later. They often have a more rustic look that would pair great with Carhartt, denim, or similar jackets and coats.

However, in my opinion, knit makes a prettier, more delicate, stitch and lends itself better to certain items; sweaters, socks, and many styles of scarves are handmade wearables that I think are often prettier done in knit.  

Tunisian Crochet

I think that Tunisian crochet is a wonderful blend between the knit and crochet outcomes. Tunisian crochet is created with one hook that is often the length of a knitting needle but with a crochet hook on the tip. Tunisian crochet, in my opinion, creates a more fine stitch than crochet. 

Don't misunderstand me. I love crochet. When making afghans, chunky hats, thick scarves and slippers I feel that I will always gravitate toward crochet. But now that I have decided to make 

The best difference between knitting and Tunisian crochet, for myself, is that when I drop a knitting stitch, or make a mistake, I can NOT successfully backtrack and fix the mistake or pick up the dropped stitch. With Tunisian, like crochet, each row starts with one loop on the hook. I can rip out the mistake back to the beginning of the row, and continue on with the project. 

But I Don't Wear Scarves

That is right, I don't wear scarves. Nor do I gravitate toward trends, especially fashion trends. So why am I head over heels with this scarf trend?

Gifts.  Gifts that I think the receivers will love. 

Over the past couple of months, I have focused on creating crochet items to donate to the local care home.  I feel that the elderly who live in a care facility are often overlooked. I am planning to donate lap blankets, hats, shawls and such.  As soon as I saw the Sophia Scarf trend I thought of women's fashions and the women who may have worn that trend in their youth.

While I recently wrote that I am learning knit, thanks to switching to wooden knitting needles that help me to control the yarn, I am very slow when knitting. I make many mistakes and I am not yet able to fix mistakes. I end up scrapping an entire project when knitting. However, when I am finished working on these projects with the self-imposed timeline, I WILL continue to practice knitting and WILL begin to make the knit Sophie Scarves by Petite Knit. They are just that pretty. 

I made a very brief video to show friends and family my newest project. You are welcome to look. I realize that I misspoke and named the wrong Hepburn in the video. 

Related Links:

I believe the original, knit Sophie Scarf pattern was created by Petite Knit. You can find that pattern on the website. 

For Tunisian Crochet inspiration, I highly recommend checking out HookLoopSarah on Instagram for beautiful photos of her talented yarn work. It is difficult to believe that her sweaters are handmade. But I believe it since I've followed her for almost 10 years now. I used her very brief tutorials on her YouTube channel for reminders and pointers with Tunisian crochet. You can also find her on her website.  

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That Point Where You Say, “I Can’t Do This the Same Way Anymore”

I wrote The Tango of My Life around 2009. I wasn’t personally walking away from my life at the time, but I know I must have been stressed. You know those moments — when life feels loud and heavy, when everything piles up at once, and you suddenly think, I just want my life back. That’s where these lyrics came from.

When Life Gets Too Loud

This song is an empowerment song, but not in a dramatic or rebellious way. It’s for women who feel overwhelmed. Not women who are necessarily trying to walk out on their lives, but women who reach that quiet breaking point where they say, Damn… that’s it. I need to find me again.

That’s where the lyric Destination Me comes from. It came from that internal moment when you stop trying to hold everything together for everyone else and realize you need to turn back toward yourself. Destination Me isn’t about leaving your life — it’s about returning to yourself within it. It’s the decision to choose yourself without knowing exactly what the next step looks like.

This song isn’t about running away. It’s about claiming yourself again.

Writing Was Always My Exit - Sometimes Saving Me From Heading to the Front Door!

For me, the exit was never leaving — it was writing. Some people journal. I write lyrics. I’ve been doing that since 1968 (yah, I was 8 years old). When life gets tangled, when emotions don’t come in neat sentences, I put them into a song or a poem.

The Tango of My Life came from that place. It came from needing to breathe. From needing to hear my own voice again. From realizing that sometimes the only way through overwhelming life circumstances is to stop and put the truth somewhere safe.

This song isn’t about quitting on people, and it isn’t about abandoning your life. I’m not saying that some people don’t need to leave certain situations — sometimes they do — but this song holds more than one truth. It can be a momentary feeling of get me out of here, or a long-standing knowing that something has to change. It holds both.

The Middle Still Belongs to You

The song talks about how someone else may have gotten the beginning of your story, but you still get to decide the middle — and ultimately, the ending. That part belongs to you. Always.

This is a song for people reclaiming their lives. It’s also for someone who’s just having a bad day and thinking, I’ve had enough. I need to pause. I need to do this for me.

If that’s you — even just for today — this song is for you.

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Quick and Easy Pizza Dough

 If you're looking to make a quick pizza for dinner or just a snack, this quick and easy pizza dough is perfect. This is perfect for one pizza and so easy to prepare.

Easy pizza dough reviewed

In the photo is a Fresh Tomato and Spanish Pizza I made using this quick and easy pizza dough recipe.

Ingredients:

• 2-1/2 cups of flour
• 1 cup water (I always use warm water)
• 1 package of yeast (Fleischmann's Rapid Rise Instant)
• 1 teaspoos salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, add the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Mix together with a fork.
2. Add the olive oil and water, and mix until a dough forms. I always use my KitchenAid Stand mixer for this.
3. We are using Rapid Rise Instant yeast, so there is no need to proof it in water; just add it to the dry ingredients.
4. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise for about 30 minutes. You only need to let the dough rise once, and you are ready to make pizza.

For a thinner pizza, I use a greased 10-inch-by-15-inch square pan. For a little thicker pizza, I will use a 12-inch round pan.

If you're looking to make pizza for a crowd, check my Easy All-Purpose Dough Recipe. This recipe will make three 10" x 15" pizzas. You can also use the rapid-rise yeast in this recipe.

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Fleischmann's Rapid Rise Yeast, 0.25 Ounce (3 Count)Buy NowWilton Silver Non Stick 12 in. Pizza Pan, Stainless Steel Bakeware, Made without PFASBuy NowOXO Steel 4Buy Now

 

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Fluffy Fleece Loungewear Pajamas for Women Reviewed

My mother has pretty much everything she needs or wants.  Buying a gift for her is rather challenging.  I spent some time searching Amazon products before Christmas, asking myself questions about each thing I considered and then rejecting it.  That is, until I found this really cute fleece loungewear outfit.

Mom and I are both always cold.  Seriously!  It can be 70° outside, but with the air conditioner on inside, we get cold.  It seems an odd dance.  We love air conditioning, but we also like to be warm.  This fleece loungewear will most likely be a year round part of our wardrobe.  

Oh, yes!  I did say "our" wardrobe.  I had put the outfit on my wishlist so I could go back and buy it for Mom once I decided on a color and size.  It was on the wishlist for less than 48 hrs, but that was clearly an important 48 hours.  During that time, my son checked out my wishlist to select a gift for me for Christmas.  Obviously, he liked the loungewear because he purchased it for me.

Christmas morning was rather humorous when Mom opened her gift first and he thought the wrong gift went to her.  She loved it so much, he was not about to open his mouth and say anything though.  It would be easy to mix up gifts when handing them out since I call Mom, "Mom" and my son calls me "Mom", but there was no mix-up.  When I opened my gift, he was greatly relieved to see me pull out the same fluffy blue outfit.  The rest of us were confused at why he was laughing, but a brief conversation between us revealed what had happened.  Turns out, the gift was perfect for both of us!

Since Christmas morning, we have run around looking like 2 blue polar bears.  Mom and I both wear the loungeware over our pajamas.  We even wear the jackets when going back and forth to each other's homes.  

The listing says they are pajamas.  I have not worn the outfit as pajamas, but Mom has.  She loves how warm and lightweight they are even when sleeping. 

If you can't stand the cold, I highly recommend this fluffy fleece loungewear, day or night!

 

Bedsure Fleece Women's Pajamas 

 Bedsure Fleece Womens Pajama SetsCheck PriceThe Bedsure fleece loungewear pajamas are 100% polyester and extremely soft.  Plus, they are very lightweight.  I love the pockets in the jacket!  They are perfect for my cellphone, keys, Kleenex, hair clips, etc.  

Mom and I are both short.  The ribbed cuffs at the wrists and ankles are great.  The ribbing keeps the fabric the right length without having tight elastic or requiring alterations.    

It is also machine wash and dry, which mean we don't have to be parted from our blue bear suits for long.  I have washed mine several times and it still looks as good as the day I opened the package.

• Very Soft
• Warm 
• Comfortable 
• Jacket and Pants included
• Button front Jacket
• 2 Pockets
• Currently available in several colors. 

 

 

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Fluffy Fleece Loungewear Pajamas for Women Reviewed  written by:

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Refreshing Purple Cabbage Salad Recipe

I saw a video on YouTube praising the benefits of purple cabbage. I thought wow, I'll have to check that out. According to the AI results when I did a search on Google, purple cabbage supports heart health, bone health, digestive health, reduces inflammation, improves immunity, and even has cancer prevention properties.

Purple cabbage has Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Vitamin A, folate, and minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Sounds like a winner on multiple accounts.

I later saw a video where the person used purple cabbage in a salad. I was inspired by their recipe, but did not make their recipe.

Even when I looked for it in my browsing history, I couldn't find it. So I ad-libbed and made my own. Here is my version, which I call Refreshing Purple Cabbage Salad, because I thought it tasted refreshing when I ate it.

All measurements are approximate, as I just eye balled it for the total overall equality of the amounts.

1/2 of a purple cabbage, cut into slices and then sliced those pieces crosswise.

Around a dozen mini carrots - sliced lengthwise in half, and then slice each half into skinny strips, then cut the strips into halves.

One apple with peel on, sliced into slices, and then slice the slices into stripes, and then cut strips into thirds.

A couple of small boxes of organic raisins.

Around a half of cup of chopped walnuts, that I further chopped into smaller pieces.

Toss the above ingredients together.

I stirred in several Tablespoons of Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing and Marinade. This was dressing that I bought at the grocery store in the refrigerated section near produce, the Panera brand. I chose Panera brand as they are pretty good about keeping their ingredients on the healthier side.

If you want to make your own dressing, I would recommend a mix of the mayonnaise of your preference, with around a third amount of raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar, with a bit of honey to taste. Stir or whisk together. Adjust any amounts to your preferred taste.

With this type of salad, I prefer to store any leftovers in a glass bowl that has a lid to fit. Pyrex is my choice for this. I actually found an individual Pyrex bowl like the green one, in my local Kroger grocery store. The set is available on Amazon.

Set of glass Pyrex Bowls: Check price.

I stored my leftovers in the green glass bowl that I mentioned above. The salad tasted just as good the second day.

Have you used purple cabbage in a salad before?

Here's to your good health.

Cheryl Paton

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Fisher-Price Poppity Pop Musical Dinosaur Review

With Fisher-Price's Go Baby Go! Poppity Pop Musical Dinosaur, your baby will be learning about the cause and effect of his actions and he will be having fun while doing so. Read on to find this toy reviewed in a bit more detail.

The Poppity Pop Dino is a brightly colored dinosaur-themed toy that comes with six balls in various colors. To use it, your baby hits a roller or drops a ball into the dinosaur's tail or onto his back and the action, in the form of popping and music, starts up.  The balls hop inside and outside of the toy and, as a result, your baby chases after them again and again. If a ball does pop out, your baby is on the move retrieving it. Balls don't go far on a carpeted floor, which is perfect for the less mobile baby and, as baby gets a bit older, moving the toy onto a hard floor allows the balls to travel farther. While all of this action is happening, one of eight songs and additional sound effects will play. 

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Tagline: Prehistoric Poppin' Pal.

Age Recommendation: Children 6 months and up
Size: 17 x 7 inches
Batteries: Requires three C batteries.
Model Number: W1392
UPC: 7445047323379
Release Date: 2011
Current Status: Available
Instruction Manual: Available on Mattel's website here.

ORIGINAL VIDEO ADVERTISEMENT

   

SUMMARY

This is another entertaining Fisher-Price toy that is functional and durable for very young children. Older children, however, often wind up sitting on the toy and ultimately breaking it since it was not constructed to hold their weight. It is therefore recommended you buy it to encourage your baby to move and know that it will not be a great toy for an older child.

WHERE TO BUY YOUR POPPITY POP DINOSAUR

This toy is still available at retail and yes, you can still find a Poppity Pop Dinosaur here, on Amazon.

See you
at the toy store!

MORE FISHER-PRICE TOYS:

Retired Fisher-Price Toys in my eBay Store.

Fisher-Price Zoo Talkers Review.

Fisher-Price Discovery Cottage Reviewed.

Fisher-Price Laugh and Learn Puppy Reviewed.

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A Review of the Best Peanut Brittle Recipe

Mom's Peanut Brittle Recipe

I always look forward to making peanut brittle, no matter the time of year!  I have what I believe is the best recipe for peanut brittle in the world!  Unfortunately, I cannot claim the fame, because I got this recipe from my Mom.....who is the best cook I have ever known.  I used to love when she made it, the brittle was so delicious, it just melts in your mouth.  

Since Mom has been gone for over 10 years, I make it myself now.    I can't make it too often, as the hubby is diabetic and he can't resist it.  It really isn't that hard to make, it gets easier each time you make it.

Ingredients

2 cups of sugar

1 1/2 cups Karo syrup (can use corn syrup but Mom always used Karo)

1/2 cup water

2 1/2 cups of raw, unsalted peanuts

1 tablespoon butter

2 teaspoons vanilla

2 rounded teaspoons baking soda

Instructions

Boil sugar, syrup, and water until it threads, then reduces heat.

Add raw, unsalted peanuts and stir until mixed.

Continue to stir until the mixture is golden brown.

Add butter, vanilla, and baking soda and stir quickly.  Do not over cook!

As soon as it is mixed, pour the mixture into a greased pan and let cool.

Break into pieces.

This peanut brittle makes a great gift, just break into small pieces and put it in a pretty metal tin, or a cute mason jar.  If you like, you could even attach a card with the recipe!  Almost everyone loves peanut brittle!  

 Lion Tin Cute Mason Jar

I love to share my family recipes, people are always so appreciative.  I hope you will share this post with your friends and family so they can make this great treat for the ones they love!

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JW Pet HOLee Roller Ball Review

If you have a puppy, you know! Finding a ball should seem like an easy purchase, but each ball and each puppy are indeed unique. The challenge to find a ball the puppy likes, cannot destroy and keeps the puppy busy for more than a few seconds is real!

After a few purchases that were fails. And fails mostly because this little puppy is also a tough little chewer; who knew such teeny tiny teeth could pierce even rubber toys advertised as tough enough!

A Winner

This ball fits the assignment for this puppy! Light enough for the puppy to toss, roll, bounce and play with or without a person. The ball is very gentle on hard floors and bouncing off furniture.  While advertised as a puzzle ball which could contain treats, the holes are fairly big so the treats would need to be hole sized. We found success by putting a smelly treat in a wad of crumpled paper and leaving the paper in the ball.

The treat did fall out, but the Holee Roller ball now has a sound with the crumpled paper which the puppy loves also.

Sizes

The puzzle ball comes in three sizes:

Small 3.0 inch diameter

Medium 4.5 inch diameter

Large 5.5 inch diameter

Assorted Colors

Including Blue, Pink, Black, Green

Price Point

When dealing with the chaos of puppy management I suspect most owners will gladly pay for a toy that amuses their puppy/adolescent/dog. The balls are not inexpensive, but average priced.

There is an extreme version made of tougher rubber for the more aggressive pup when playing. As always, supervision is required and the roller balls are not for land sharks of the puppy kingdom.

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Chasing Butterflies - My Story Behind the Lyrics From Childhood to Being a Grandparent

I wrote the lyrics to Chasing Butterflies on January 16th, 2026.

I didn’t sit down planning to write lyrics that day. Lately, my thoughts have been drifting back to my childhood. I turned ten in 1970, and those years keep returning to me in small flashes. 

One of my favorite things in the world back then was riding my 10-speed around town with my friend. We’d be gone most of the day, riding from one end of town to the other — from my house to hers, and back again, over to our school, and anywhere else our bikes took us.

There was no plan. We just rode, talked, laughed, and filled the day. If we ended up at her house and her mom was making dinner, I’d call home to let my mom know I was eating there. If she were at my place, she’d do the same. And when the streetlights came on, that was our signal to head home. It was just life, a fun life.

Some Things You Only Understand Later

Thinking about those years always brings me back to my parents. I miss them. That never really goes away. Back then, I had no idea how much they were shaping me, or how much strength they were quietly giving me just by being there. I only understand that now, looking back. That part of my life, having them in it, became a foundation for everything that came after.

Somewhere in all of that remembering, the idea of butterflies came to me.

When you’re a child, you chase butterflies without thinking. You don’t question it. You imagine, pretend, make up stories, and let your imagination lead the way. You play with dolls and trucks, create worlds, and believe in them completely. When you’re that young, imagination isn’t something you try to access — it’s just there, guiding you.

We Don’t Know Who We’re Becoming

Life changes us. It has to. A caterpillar doesn’t know it will one day become a butterfly, and we don’t know who we’re becoming either. When I picture myself at ten years old, riding my bike and chasing butterflies, I had no idea who I would be later in life. Writing this now at 65, I can see how much life transformed me — through love, loss, time, and all the things that shape us along the way.

Life also teaches you about moments. About how important it is to really be present with the people in front of you. About letting everything else fall away without trying, simply because the moment matters more than anything else.

That’s where this song brought me in the end — back to where I am now, as a grandmother.

When I’m with my grandchildren, playing with them, laughing, sharing small moments, it feels like a gift. An honor. In those moments, nothing else exists. I’m not thinking about the past or the future. I’m just there. Fully present. And without even realizing it at first, I’m chasing butterflies again.

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50 Years of My Poems and Lyrics are on Amazon, Where Available.

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🎵 ©DragedaPoemsLyrics (B.T.C) - Original Lyrics. | Licensed Digital Composition (Commercial Rights Held) for Music and Vocals

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Heart and Steel Book Review

I grew up in Western Pennsylvania and am a lifelong Pittsburgh Steelers fan. My daughter and grandsons got me this book for Christmas. 

Heart and Steel: Inside the Steelers Dynasty is more than a football book. It's a deep, personal look at leadership, resilience, and what it truly takes to build a championship culture. Written by Hall of Fame coach Bill Cowher with veteran sports journalist Michael Holley.

The book follows Cowher's journey from his roots in Crafton, Pennsylvania, just minutes from the stadium he would eventually call home. The book traces his path from a linebacker at North Carolina State to an NFL player and, finally, to an amazing coaching career.

The book gave me the chance to relive those glorious 15 years of Cowher's coaching and the team that I love. From the heartbreak of narrow playoff losses to the decision-making involving stars like Ben Roethlisberger.

While Steeler fans will love this book and the stories, the most moving chapters aren't about football at all; they focus on Cowher's life after the whistle. This book made me both laugh and cry. Cowher addresses doubts, criticism, and the sacrifices required to succeed at the highest level, along with their impact on his family life. 

Heart and Steel is an engaging and thoughtful read that captures the spirit of Steeler football and offers insights into Bill Cowher's leadership and determination.

From the very first chapter, I could not put this book down. You can find Bill Cowher today as the cohost of CBS's NFL Today.

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Crafts in the House of Sylvestermouse Reviewed

Have Fun and Craft On!

Let's Play, Create and Make A Lifetime of Treasures 

I love handmade gifts and crafts! I guess I have been crafting all of my life. I honestly cannot remember a time that I did not have a hook or needle of some kind in my hand or a project in some phase of construction. 

One of the most frustrating problems a crafter or needlework enthusiasts faces, is getting patterns, ideas, or instructions without spending a lot of money. The supplies alone will often deplete any crafting budget. 

Because I understand the real desire to make original treasures, I am sharing some of my own personal ideas and instructions for making unique heirlooms. I have also written several articles that teach basic skills for beginners. 

 

Cross Stitch Memories

My favorite needlework is cross stitch. It is certainly one of the easiest forms of needlework and there are tons of patterns and kits readily available. 

I started cross stitching when I was in jr. high school (It is called middle school today). One of my earliest projects is still one of my favorites. I cross stitched the flowers in the photo for my grandmother. I made one for my mother as well. My mom helped me make them into pillows. 

After my grandmother died, my step grandfather put a lot of her personal treasures in boxes. He later gave some of them to my mother. She discovered the pillow among those items and brought it back to me. The pillow was stained and the cross stitch cloth was "aged." I cut the cross stitch design off of the pillow and carefully cleaned it with Woolite in my kitchen sink. This cross stitch heirloom now resides in my bible. A world of memories right there in that one little square. 

Tutorial:  Visit How to Cross Stitch on Crafters Kingdom 

 

Beaded Ornaments ~ A Gift to Cherish from Year to Year

Another one of my favorite craft projects is beaded ornaments. They are fairly easy and require very little talent. They do, however, demand patience since they entail working with small beads and pins. 

Not only do I enjoy making these ornaments for our family tree, I like making them to give a gifts. The ornament in the photo was a gift I made for my son. I bet you can guess his favorite color. 

In just a few hours, I made a lovely treasure, a precious gift and a lasting tradition. 

Tutorial:  Visit How to Make Beaded Ornaments

 

Crochet With Love

When it comes to home décor, there is nothing prettier than the lacy effect of a crocheted doily or tablecloth. 

I enjoy browsing in antique stores and it never fails to bring tears to my eyes when I see a beautiful crocheted afghan or tablecloth in one of the display cabinets. I know from experience how many hours are lovingly stitched in these beautiful heirlooms. I simply can not imagine selling one of these family treasures. I am always tempted to buy them, take them home and give back the love they deserve. 

Tutorial:  Visit Beginner Crochet  

 

 

Beaded Easter Eggs

If you are really looking for something original, this craft project is for you! 

Out of sheer determination to find a new, unique gift for my children one Easter, I dreamed up these eggs. They are really very easy and require a minimal investment for the supplies. I actually made the first few with beads and glue I already had in my craft supplies. 

They make a great surprise or grand prize in the traditional Easter egg hunt. 

Tutorial: Visit How to Make Beaded Easter Eggs

 

Let's Party ~ Mad Hatter Style

I made this Mad Hatter's Hat for my son right before the debut of the new Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland movie. 

Yes, he actually wore it to the movie on opening day! Can you imagine how much fun he had with his group of college friends when they donned their "Alice" attire and stormed the theater doors? I wish I could have been there. I would have at least like to have had a picture, but you know kids, they don't worry about such things. 

Tutorial: Visit How to Make a Mad Hatter's Hat 
like Johnny Depp's in Tim Burtons Alice in Wonderland Movie

 

My Decoupaged Purse

One of my most treasured gifts is the decoupaged wooden purse that my grandmother decoupaged for me when I was a young girl. 

I love all of the photos on the purse, but the photo on the right shows my favorite picture.  I have always loved giraffes and I always had long, blonde hair.

I loved it when she originally gave it to me back in the 70's. I carried it everywhere I went and actually used it as my everyday purse. My grandmother died several years ago and I treasure the gifts she so lovingly and painstakingly made for me. I can't touch this purse without thinking of how her hands touched it so many times as she turned a wooded box into a beautiful work of art just for me. 

Tutorial: Visit How to Make a Decoupaged Wooded Purse

 

A Very Special Valentine

I love the stories behind the original sailor's valentines! 

I can assure you, the sailor's valentines that I have made reflects a greater depth of love than those 19th century sailors felt for their valentines. 

In the tutorial linked below, I have told about the origin of the Sailor's Valentine and given instructions to make your own. There really isn't a prettier way to express your love. 

 

Tutorial:  Click here for - How to Make a Sailor's Valentine

 

Beaded Cross Stitch Pin 

Embellishing cross stitch with shining beads is simply a joy! 

I love adding beads to my cross stitch. The beads add another dimension to cross stitch. 

I use the beads to highlight and accentuate focus areas of my cross stitch work. I love the way the little beads will pick up and reflect light and color. 

I made the beaded cross stitch pin for my son for Halloween. As I was making it, I took the time to take lots of pictures to show in an article. 

Here is my Tutorial:  How to Make a Beaded Cross Stitch Pin 

 

Halloween Ghost 

I made the original ghost over a decade ago for my son who just loves ghosts and anything Halloween. 

This is my own pattern with step by step instructions and photos, which I have shared exclusively on Crafters Kingdom. 

I hope you enjoy my friendly ghost!  I am certain he will enjoy being with you.

 

Tutorial: How to Make a Halloween Ghost with Fleece 

 

A Unique and Impressive Holiday Centerpiece 

During the holidays, we decorate our homes with glitter and sparkle that reflects the beauty of the lights on our trees and in our hearts. 

I originally made this centerpiece with beaded fruit for autumn and Thanksgiving, but when it was time to decorate for Christmas, I changed the floral picks to gold and red berries. 

Since I was changing it out anyway, I photographed the process and wrote an article describing the steps to make a sleigh centerpiece. Regardless of the holder or vase, the steps in the article below will show you exactly how to make you own original arrangement. 

Tutorial: How to Make a Christmas Sleigh Centerpiece 

 

Some Things Really Are Just Too Easy 

These ornaments are probably the easiest crafting project I have ever made. 

You will be surprised and thrilled to find out just had simple these ornaments are to assemble. 

We had a bit of an unplanned craft party one year when our family was gathered during the holidays. I had just purchased some glass ornaments and I had a wild idea for all of us to make something and exchange them with each other. 

These ornaments are the results of our afternoon of antics and fun. A wonderful memory! 

They smell good too! 

Tutorial: How to Make Quick & Easy Glass Ornaments 

 

Just Playing Around - Making a Pincushion 

As a seamstress, I can really appreciate a large pincushion. If it is pretty, that makes it even better. 

I was inspired by a pattern book that gave some basic instructions on how to construct a felt pincushion. 

Intrigued, I gathered my supplies, called my mother and we went to work creating our own pincushions. I also created the article below. I have given step by step instructions with lots of photos so you, too, can create a felt pincushion. 

This really is a very easy project. The hardest part is choosing the supplies. 

I will never again look at my pincushion without thinking of the day my mother and I were just playing around! 

Tutorial: How to Make Felt Cupcake Pincushions 

 

Mosaic Picture 

Mosaic pictures are rather impressive when complete, but they don't have to be hard to make. 

Several years ago, I made the raccoon mosaic picture for my father for his birthday and he loves it. 

Making the mosaic was not hard since I used a kit, but I do have several tips and suggestions for making the craft easier. 

This is a craft that does take a good bit of time, so organization and taking your time is key to successfully creating a beautiful mosaic picture. 

 

Tutorial: How to Make a Mosaic Picture

 

__________________

This tutorial directory page was originally published on a website that is not longer in existence and All Photos are the Exclusive Property of Sylvestermouse.  

© 2010 Cynthia Sylvestermouse 

 

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Review of We Were The Lucky Ones

The author, Georgia Hunter, did meticulous research on this book that is based on her grandfather's family.  Even though this is a book of historical fiction her careful research really brings to life the struggles of the Kurc family during World War II.  The story, which was largely left untold until Georgia discovers the stories during a family reunion, is one of struggles, hardship, love and the endurance of the human spirit.  

Book Summary

The book begins in 1939 as the Kurc family gathers for the Passover in their home in Radom, Poland.  There are three generations gathered, and they are only missing Addy who is working in France.  

At first the issues of the world seem remote, and they struggle to lead normal lives even as the threat of war looms.  The dinner conversation consists of talks of babies and romance and everyday life.

The peace that they knew will soon be destroyed and the family will be forced to come to grips with the reality of the coming war.  The family will be sent to the far ends of the world and be divided so that the main struggle and conversations will be their desire to stay alive and someday all be together again.

The author does a wonderful job of making you feel a part of each of the family members struggles and wanting to read on to find out how they will survive.  There are members of the Kurc family sent to labor camps in Siberia and ghettos in their hometown when their beautiful home is taken from them.  Other family members pose as Gentiles to survive, and one is able to escape the continent and travels to Brazil.

With the title of the book leading us to believe they all survive, I was always wondering how each one would survive the terrible struggles they endured.

This book was based on the actual lives of the authors ancestors which made it even more compelling.  I highly recommend this New York Times bestselling book.  It is a true testament to the human spirit that can survive and thrive.

Miniseries made from Book

The book has been made into a miniseries. It premiered on Hulu in 2024.  It stars Joey Kirs and Logan Lerman.

Book on Amazon

The book is available on Amazon in paperback, Kindle, and audio book.   We were the Lucky Ones

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Being Gentle With Yourself ~ From the Heart~ A Product Review

Somewhere in this New Year I thought  2026 was going to be a little different.  Why?  Well, for starters my mind was telling me I should be making a plan for a New Year's Resolution, but my body was telling me a whole different story.

I've been told for ages that aging is not for sissies and while I was younger, I would laugh and think that's a crazy thing to say.  But now that I am in that "older" category, I'm beginning to understand what everyone was talking about!!

We get glimpses of what will happen when and if we are/were lucky enough to look after our aging parents.  We learn to help them do those little tasks that they find difficult.  What we don't see is that one day (God willing)  it will be us who are in need of that help.

Thank goodness there are so many "tools" out there, that benefit us as we are aging.  Let's look at just a couple of these tools.

My first most important tool, is a really good pair of walking shoes.  Shoes that fit nice, are easy to put on and take off, and give my feet the support they need.  After all just because we are getting older doesn't mean that we should just sit down and not move.  As a matter of fact, walking is the best exercise you can get for all ages, but especially as you are aging.  So for me, those walking shoes are the " Skechers Slip In shoes".  They are great shoes and I have one pair for walking and another pair for more dressy occasions. I have given up wearing dresses for the ease and comfort of trousers, so there is no need for me to wear high heels at any time. anymore.  A small price to pay for comfort! But just for added convenience, they are so light on your feet that I know you will love them.

The Second tool that I would highly recommend for anyone who loves walking, but has just a little fear of falling, would be my Walking Poles. I have written about these poles before, but I must mention them again.  These poles are wonderful for giving you that extra little bit of help with balance.  While we are aging our sense of balance and our vision seem to deteriorate.  These walking poles are amazing for help with easing that small difficulty.  Once you start using them, you will find that you just don't want to go out without them.  If you want to read more check out my "older" story here! Formally called Nordic Walking Poles, they are a must have in our home and our life.

My third tool for today is a Grabber, Reacher Tool!   Just last year, I took a tumble and broke my shoulder.  Yes, I did do that.  It wasn't fun and the aftereffects were not a whole bunch of fun either.  But the good news is that my shoulder still works.  So I'm thankful for that.  But the bad news is that my reach isn't what it used to be.  So I find that many times I need just that little bit of extra help to get things into and out of the cupboard.  Enter my new friend in the kitchen, the Grabber/Reacher tool!  So no more excuses for leaving things on the counter for someone else to put away,  grab the tool and put it to use.

All of these tools are good for younger people as well, they aren't made just for seniors.  But if you have a senior in your life and they don't have some of these tools, they would make a great gift!

I have decided that the most important thing for me in 2026 is to be gentle with myself.  Realize that aging is a gift that many don't get!  It will take me a little longer to do the things that I used to do with ease.  But, I'm still here to do them.  Even if I do them a little slower and with some added help.

Aging is a process and each day a new challenge can and possibly will arise, so be ready and make it easier on yourself by using the tools that are out there!

Every day is a gift and we need and should be gentle with ourselves as we open our eyes to all kinds of new possibilities!

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