Natural Mama

I've got a new gig!!!

2011-05-30T23:22:00.005-04:00

Hey world, join me at Examiner.com. I am the new Natural Living Examiner (writer)for the Atlanta area. My articles can be found here:

http://www.examiner.com/user-katoyia-04

What a wonderful start!!!

Delish Rawish Breakfast

2011-05-30T23:17:00.001-04:00

So summmer is the perfect time to take advantage of the fresh fruits and veggies that are available. Here is a perfect simple recipe that uses fresh fruit and cashews and is highly satisfying. This combination is so tasty and reminds you of a parfait. The catch is its vegan, raw, and great for you.

For one serving you will need:

5 strawberries
1/4 cup of blueberries
1/4 cup of raspberries
4 pineapple rings
1 kiwi
1 cup of cashews
1/4-1/2 cup of coconut milk
vanilla to taste
agave to taste
1/2 cup of shredded coconut
1/2 cup of mixed nuts/seeds (like almonds, walnuts, cashews, pecans)
*** all organic***

Begin by soaking the cup of cashews overnight in distilled water.

In the morning, place the nuts and coconut into your oven and toast for 10 min. Once toasted, place in blender or food processor and chop very finely. Set aside.

While the nuts and coconut are toasting, finely chop all of your fruit by hand. Do not place the fruit into a blender. It will crush the fruit and leave you with a puree. You do not want this. You want to be able to taste the full flavor of each of the fruits. They are filled with antioxidents! Once all fruit is chopped, place inside a bowl and set aside.

Now you want to place cashews and coconut milk into the blender. Only add a little cocnut milk at a time. Once the mixture is to the consistency that you want, add in your agave and vanilla. This is a simple raw yogurt. To make the flavor a little more coconutty, you can add about a tablespoon of coconut oil. Its is lovely.

Now the simple part. Simply pour the desired amount of your un-yogurt onto your chopped fruit. Top with toasted coco-nut mixture and voila. The kids will be eating it before you can even get in a bite. So simple and so good!!!

Wow, Astrology really works.

2011-05-30T22:58:00.000-04:00

I have not been on the cosmicpath.com is a while. Usually, I go there to look frequently. However, I had no done so in quite a while. I decided to go there tonight and look what I found. No wonder the month of May was such a trying month for me. I am looking forward to what June brings!!!

VirgoAugust 23 - September 22

The month ahead is going to really gear you up over any kind of new push you have through travel, media, publishing, marketing, publicity, higher education, ceremonies, or legal means. You will be looking at what you value and how to earn income in this and the New Moon on the 3rd is the firing shot to begin the race. Be willing to continue to work around current limits financially as you push in these other realms.

Mars will move into this zone on the 11th at which time you may feel more passion to motivate you in travel, media, publishing, marketing, legal matters, or education, or you will find that anger is stirred or you are dealing with a younger male in this. Take time today to have the talk, sign the agreement, meet, deal with siblings or neighbors, or write up whatever it is that will open things up for you in a joint financial matter such as a loan, bankruptcy, inheritance, settlement, insurance claim, tax situation, commission based project, or other outside resource. Jupiter is in the mix to help you expand on this.

The 15th and 16th are bringing more energy into the fields of publishing, marketing, media, travel, education, ceremonies, and legal matters. Again talks or agreements figure prominently but now you may be dealing with a woman, love in the mix, how income is affected, what is being spent, and any involvement with siblings or neighbors. The 16th brings help from a partner, agent, attorney, specialist, or in dealing with a competitor that is tied to film, music or other artistic endeavors, spiritual or romantic pursuits, or dealing with institutions.

The Full Moon on the 17th is a climax for you involving an agreement, writing project, a brother or sister, neighbor, move, idea, meeting, or decision. This is a time of great celebration or achievement in these areas or one marking an ending. Your shared financial resources, divorce issues or sexual intimacy needs will likely be coloring what peaks here now.

The 20th is a very active day for you where you will make a move legally, through travel, media, marketing, publishing, education, or ceremonies to transform and empower yourself in creative ventures, with true love or children. The energy flow is very positive today and you will want to talk, motivate, sign documents, make decisions, and go for it.

The 21st the Sun moves into Gemini and lights up your Career Midheaven. This is a 30 day cycle opening up ahead that is all about putting you in the spotlight on the career front. It’s a great time to be seen, to get out there and promote your name and company, to lead the way, to stand out on the career front or with any major goal you have set for yourself. This is where you will likely feel like pouring your vital energy on a personal and physical level. There is still more of yesterdays energy working for you as well so continue to pursue publishing, media, travel, marketing, legal means, education, or ceremonies to reach creative goals or connect with kids or love.

The last week of May is all about adjusting to the circumstances or needs around income and spending. You will need to talk about the legal, travel, media, publishing, or educational matter, look at agreements, make decisions, take action, and work around personal and physical issues as you focus in on limits or responsibilities and what you can do to commit yourself to success here.

ZOE MOON ASTROLOGY COPYRIGHT 2011 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Ok, so I haven't been on the path that I set forth but....

2011-05-30T22:41:00.000-04:00

At the beginning of this year, I made boastful plans to blog more and use this outlet that I have created in order to reach an audience and to, of course, vent. But I fell off, I must admit. Instead of coming to my special place, I have allowed forces outside of myself to take hold and ultimately make me unsure of myself. Since the last time that I wrote here, much has happened. There has been much pain, yet much growth. And I have become an even better mother. I have always regarded myself quite high in that cateogory, as I always put my children first. Boy do I love looking into those 3 sets of bright eyes. Motherhood, has also been one area that I have always been sure of. Even when the world around me seems to be crumbling, I can take comfort in knowing my kids will be ok cause I will prevail. Whether love is on a hiatus, money is low, the pantry is scarce, motherhood is always there. So I have decided to use my love for my children to launch my own company, Natural Mama. I have just opened a new etsy store for it and am currently preparing inventory. This will be a new venture for me and a place for me to really step out and spread my wings. It is my every wish that this new venture will provide my family with a newfound security. I also believe that it will be healing.

Its That Time of Year Again

2011-01-11T16:17:00.004-05:00

So, it started snowing in Atlanta again. This time, the snow was a lot thicker and has stuck around a lot more. And because of the snow, the entire city has pretty much been shut down. Store have closed (including most supermarkets) and even puplic transportation too. This is why one must always be prepared for an emergency. You should always have food on hand. For some people, purchasing loads of food can be an expense that you can't afford. So start off small with an extra week worth of food, then stock up to a month, 3 months, 6 months, and so on as you can afford to do so. The mormons suggest that you have I believe a yrs worth of food at home just in case. Remember to rotate stocks as you bring in more.

Being that it is January, it is time to clean house and also to make preparations for the yr. My preparations include planning out this yr's garden, creating an emergency kit (or rather restocking the one that I do have), budgeting, getting rid of all unwanted, old, and broken items in the home. I have actually began some of this process. I have cleared out many toys, clothes, shoes, etc that my kids have outgrown. But i know that I need to go through everything at least 2 more times to make sure I didnt overlook anything. I have also began planning my garden and have ordered seeds from my seed favorite, FEDCO SEEDS..

My goals for 2011 are and in no partuclar order:

1) Handmake gifts for everyone for every occassion (such as birthdays, etc)
2) Save some serious $$$ We have been hit with some very hardtimes in 2010, this yr I am wanting to avoid that as much as possible by saving and really planning.
3) Blog. I created tbhis blog some yrs ago but have not really been blogging. It was supposed to be an outlet, but instead I have been letting this remain inside. Not the best thing to do. So It is my goal tht this yr. and forever more, that I blog at least once a week.
4) Make use of esty. It is my goal ti make use of my etsy account. I created that account in order to sell things that I make, and once again, it has fallen by the waistside. This year I really want to get into my creative nature and bring in some income for my family.
5) Spend time. I want to spend more time with each individual family member in order to strengthen the relationships. I also want to be able to spend more time with myself. I know that it would make me a much more tranquil person.
6) Growth. This past yr, I have had to grow a lot. And of course, all on my own. I have been faced with many challenges from those of motherood, relationships, work, etc. You name it. But I have balanced these things in a manner that I am very proud of. I have not lashed out against anyone nor sought out any revenge. Members of my own family have asked me why I havent done this or that. It just surprises me that in a person adult age, they still participate in childish highschool activities and idle talk. And me being only 25, I am more mature that 90% of the people I know. I only wish that in 2011, I can continue to gorwn and expand both my heart and mind, and just really move away from those who are not willing to grow and stop doing/ talking about the same old stuff.
7) Lose 15lbs. I want to tone the body that I already have, really.
8) Read more. This year I would like to actually be able to begin that dream library that has always been in the back of my mind. I want to buy the books that I always wanted, and read them.
9) Love. I want to open to new forms and ways of loving those already in my life as well as those that will enter it. I want to express my love much more than I have in the past. I have always been an introvert, but would like to step out of my comfort zone this yr and love freely.

So thats what I have so far......

What have you been crocheting lately?

2009-03-30T21:51:00.004-04:00

So this is what I'm working on now. Its from the So Sweet Baby Wardrobe To Mix and Match from Leisure Arts. Its the baby romper from pg 16.

A few projects that I've done while at home:

Both are 0-3 mths sides made with a F hook and peaches and cream cotton yarn. I used a couple of the grab bag skeins which I think are a great value.

And a new baby makes 5

2009-03-30T21:44:00.003-04:00

Yes. Thats right. We're expecting again. Another son by the way that heartbeat sounds. I got my cerclage put in on Feb 13 and its been driving my nuts. Everytime I move I can feel it. But other than that, the cerclage is pretty much fine. Bedrest can be boring, but really its been no different from normal life other than I can't go anywhere. I can still do what I need to do around the house and take care of the boys.

My Lovers

2009-03-30T21:29:00.003-04:00

These are my two lovers. The centers of my life. My 2 yr old (he'll be three in May) and my 1 yr old (he'll be 2 in Oct.) The photo of Ka'lel was taken like 2 days ago. I bought those crayola pipsqueak washable baby markers and he had gotten into them. Of course he had tag himself, the walls, sheets, etc. He drew everywhere while I was feeding my one yr old and changing him. The pic of Kanansi was taken tonight. He was guiding himself along the edge of my bed in order to get to a toy. Don't mind the huge piles of books in the background.

Long Time No Blog Huh

2009-03-30T21:27:00.002-04:00

Well I've gotten my laptop fixed and all things are up and running.

Victory Gardens

2008-12-15T16:24:00.002-05:00

I think these things really sound cool.

As part of the war effort, the government rationed foods like sugar, butter, milk, cheese, eggs, coffee, meat and canned goods. Labor and transportation shortages made it hard to harvest and move fruits and vegetables to market. So, the government turned to its citizens and encouraged them to plant "Victory Gardens." They wanted individuals to provide their own fruits and vegetables.

Nearly 20 million Americans answered the call. They planted gardens in backyards, empty lots and even city rooftops. Neighbors pooled their resources, planted different kinds of foods and formed cooperatives, all in the name of patriotism.

Farm families, of course, had been planting gardens and preserving produce for generations. Now, their urban cousins got into the act. All in the name of patriotism.

The gardeners were able to make up 40% of all fruits and veggies eatten in the US.

When World War II ended, so did the government promotion of victory gardens. Many people did not plant a garden in the spring of 1946, but agriculture had not yet geared up to full production for grocery stores, so the country experienced some food shortages.

I've been seeing this pop up all over the net too. There are even seed companies that are offering a entire package called the victory garden. I think that we all should consider this as a possibility. I do have a positive outlook on things getting better in our country, but before they can, they will get worse. And we all have to be prepared and help one another.

My lovies

2008-11-23T22:35:00.003-05:00

Just some recent pics of my lovies

The Passing of My Grandmother

2008-11-23T22:19:00.005-05:00

My grandmother passed on Oct. 8, 2008. This was a really hard thing for me to digest. She was the one who raised me. She was my everything, still is. She taught me cooking, cleaning, all the things that a mother and wife does. She sewed, knitted, and crocheted, I just wanted to be like her.

In traveling back to hometown in Florida, I met a lot of family members that I never knew existed. Many of which, are from the islands.

We traveled an hour to see other family members in Lee Heigh Acres, where I met everyone here.

All of my family members that were there.

This is me and my dad, plus other family members

Bernat Hoodie Finally Finished!

2008-11-23T22:03:00.005-05:00

Okay, after a long few months of working on this hoodie, I've finally finished them for my boys. I used peaches and creme yarn. But the color I orignally wanted couldn't be made again (the variegated color of teal, beige, and brown). I had gotten it from their grab bags and it was a mistake color. I tried calling around to see if I could get someone to make it, but no luck, Finally, I just decided to use beige for the rest of the hoodie.

This is my one year old in his hoodie and a mitten that I crocheted for him.

These are pics of the hoodie that was made for my two year old.

On the News

2008-08-20T16:28:00.002-04:00

Some people requested the link for the local news story that aired about my family. Click here to view it.

Really Good Vegan Food

2008-08-18T19:09:00.003-04:00

Want a great recipe for a nice summer lunch? I make this quite often for my family and friends and pair with a nice summer salad. Here goes:

Mushroom and Avocado Sandwich with a Banana-Peanut Butter Shake

The Sami

Ingredients:

Loaf of french style bread
1 whole portobella
1/2 avocado
Annies Naturals Shitake Mushroom Salad Dressing
2 small pieces of your fav. arugula
2 tbsp Olive oil

Cut of the length of bread you desire for your sandwich, slice enough to create an opening in the bread so it looks like a hoagie or hotdog bun (you know, so you can stuff it). Heat olive oil in skillet on high flame and toast your bread. Remove the bread from the pan. Add more oil to pan and place the portobella in the middle of the pan. Place a small plate on top of mushroom. On top of the plate, place a very heavy object. The point is to steam the portobella for 2 minutes, to really get the juices flowing. You can opt to grill it, but the taste will be different. You may season to taste. Remove the portobella and place on your bread. Top with arugula, thinly sliced avocado, and a little of the dressing. Delish!

Banana Peanut Butter Shake

1- 1 1/2 cups vanilla flavored almond milk (we use blue diamond brand)
2 tbsp peanut butter
1/2 banana
handful of ice cubes
splash of organic maple syrup
1 tsp sea moss (optional)

Take all of the ingredients and put in a blender, Blend to your desired thinkness and enjoy!

One of the judges' responded

2008-08-18T19:04:00.003-04:00

Today, my husband and I received a letter from one of the judges that we are holding responsible for the case. She wrote us to request that she be taken off of the writ of habeus corpus because she says that she had no juristiction is the matter of our children being deprived. However, we've done our homework and we've aquired her signatures on the supposing documents that she claims she never signed. These people really think that average citzen or national don't know anything, least of, their rights. With that said, her name will not be removed from the writ, as clearly she is in part responsible.

The Heat Is On

2008-08-12T20:09:00.013-04:00

So, the heat is on.

Thanks to all of you who have written me with you kind words. My family and I really do appreciate it. If you've more questions, you may email me at katoyia_04@yahoo.com. If you are a family experiencing a similar issue, please go to www.fightcps.org. The folks there have prepared some great info. People just cannot believe it when I tell them that your children can be taken away if you are vegetarians or do not feed your children processed foods. But its true. I know.

On Monday, Kamani (my husband) and I went to the federal district court in Atlanta, GA. Did you know that you can be arrested on false charges? Well if you are, make sure that you go to the federal district court in you area and request that they do a search on name in the clerks office. If no match is found, then you have no actual charges. Some parents have been contacting me about this. I also recommend that you get this as a certified letter to have proof for your case.

We went there to file some paperwork, and not less than 10 minutes after doing such, we were contacted by DFCS on the state level, which is obviously above the stupid county that we have been dealing with. The officials there would like to meet with to discuss ways that we can settle this matter.

Also, some of you have asked whether or not my son was a micropreemie and he was. Kanansi was born 16 weeks early weighing in at just 1lb 9oz.

Here are just two of the pics that I have on my desktop. These were taken after Kanansi was able to be held and he was already over 2lbs. He was still on oxygen in these.

We also went to 4 different banks to establish a fund so that we can have somewhere to put the donations that we've been receiving. We were denied by each bank, as the managers each stated that they cannot attach their names to anything "legal". This really did amaze me. But we did set up another account for this.

If you'd like to donate to the Thomas Family Fund, click here to donate.

or copy and paste this link

http://thedivinetrust.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=414&Itemid=397Peace-----Original

There is no required denomination. Anything you give is a blessing to us. If you have trouble getting to it let me know.

Now for crocheting.

I found this pattern at bernat.com, I couldn't load the pic, but you can look it up on their website. Anyway, I started making matching ones for my two boys only to find that I didn't have enough of the color I needed. I am using a blend of cotton from the folks at www.peaches-creme.com. As it turns out, the color that I received is from a grab bag which contains mill ends, wrong dye lots, etc which are otherwise perfectly good cottons. So I cannot get the color again. Its the perfect boy color. Its a mix of tan, beige, and teal. So I've got to get one of those three to finish the hoodies for them. I took pics of the hoodies in the making, but I chipped my camera today. Which means that I can take all the pics I want, but I can't upload them unless I get them printed at a store and them scan them at my printer (won't be doing that anytime soon though :)). So thats the second camera incident this yr. Anyways, here's the pattern.

Bernat® Baby Coordinates Crochet Baby Hoodie

Crafting Time: 6 hours

For Boy's Version
Sizes 6 mos (12 mos, 18 mos, 24 mos)
Bernat® Baby Coordinates (170g/6 oz): Main Color (MC) 01009 Soft Blue 2 (2, 2, 3) balls
Bernat® Baby Coordinates (170 g/6 oz): Contrast (A) 01000 White 1 (1, 1, 1) ball
For Girl's Version
Sizes 6 mos (12 mos, 18 mos, 24 mos) Bernat® Baby Coordinates (170g/6 oz): Main Color (MC) 01008 Baby Pink 2 (2, 2, 3) balls
Bernat® Baby Coordinates (170g/6 oz): Contrast (A) 01000 White 1 (1, 1, 1) ball
For Both Versions
Crochet Hook: Size 4mm (U.S. G or 6) or size needed to obtain gauge
5 Buttons
Cost of each project will vary depending on materials used.
Due to the seasonal nature of some merchandise, actual availability of some products pictured may vary.

Sizes

Age 6 mos: Chest Measurement: 17 ins [43 cm]; Finished Chest: 21 ins [53.5 cm]

Age 12 mos: Chest Measurement: 18 ins [45.5 cm]; Finished Chest: 12 mos 23 ins [58.5 cm]

Age 18 mos: Chest Measurement: 19 ins [48 cm]; Finished Chest: 18 mos 25 ins [63.5 cm]

Age 24 mos: Chest Measurement: 20 ins [50.5 cm]; Finished Chest: 24 mos 27 ins [68.5 cm]

Gauge: 15 hdc and 10 rows = 4 ins [10 cm].

The instructions are written for smallest size. If changes are necessary for larger sizes the instructions will be written thus ( ).

*Please NOTE: THE 5TH SET OF NUMBERS IN PARENTHESES IS MY ATTEMPT AT MAKING A LARGER SIZE FOR A 27 MONTH OLD. ITS CLOSE TO A 2T.

Back

With MC, ch 41 (45-49-53, 57).

Foundation row: (RS). 1 hdc in 3rd ch from hook. 1 hdc in each ch across. Ch 2. Turn. 39 (43-47-51, 55) hdc.

1st row: 1 hdc in each st to end of row. Ch 2. Turn.

Rep last row until work from beg measures 6 1/2 (7-, 7 ¾, 8 ½, 9) ins [16.5 (18-19-21.5) cm], ending with RS facing and omitting turning ch at end of last row.

Shape armholes: Next row: Sl st in each of first 4 sts. Ch 2. 1 hdc in each st to last 4 sts. Ch 2. Turn. Leave rem sts unworked. 31 (35-39-43, 47) sts.

Cont even until armhole measures 4 1/2 (5, 5 ¼, 5 ½, 6) ins [11.5 (12.5-13-14) cm], ending with RS facing and omitting turning ch at end of last row. Fasten off.

Left Front

With MC, ch 21 (23-25-27, 29).

Foundation row: (RS). 1 hdc in 3rd ch from hook. 1 hdc in each ch across. Ch 2. Turn. 19 (21-23-25) hdc. 1st row: 1 hdc in each st to end of row. Ch 2. Turn. Rep last row until work from beg measures 6 ½ (7, 7 ¾, 8 ½, 9) ins [16.5 (18-19-21.5) cm], ending with RS facing and omitting turning ch at end of last row.

Shape armhole: Next row: Sl st in each of first 4 sts. Ch 2. 1 hdc in each st to end of row. Turn. Leave rem sts unworked. 15 (17-19-21, 23) sts.

Cont even until armhole measures 2 1/2 (3, 3 ¼, -3 ½, 3 ¾ ) ins [6 (7.5-8-9) cm], ending with RS facing for next row.

Neck shaping: 1st row: 1 hdc in each st to last 3 (3-4-4, 5) sts. Ch 2. Turn. Leave rem sts unworked. 12 (14-15-17) hdc. 2nd row: Yoh and draw up a loop in each of first 2 sts. Yoh and draw through all loops on hook - hdc2tog made. 1 hdc in each st to end of row. Ch 2. Turn. 3rd row: 1 hdc in each st to last 2 sts. Hdc2tog over last 2 sts. Ch 2. Turn.

Rep 2nd row once more. 9 (11-12-14, 16) sts.

Cont even until work from beg measures same length as Back to shoulders, ending with RS facing and omitting turning ch at end of last row. Fasten off.

Right Front

Work as given for Left Front, reversing all shapings.

Sleeves

With MC, ch 29 (31-31-33, 35).

Foundation row: (RS). 1 hdc in 3rd ch from hook. 1 hdc in each ch across. Ch 2. Turn. 27 (29-29-31, 33) hdc.

Next 2 rows: 1 hdc in each st to end of row. Ch 2. Turn. Next row: 2 hdc in first st. 1 hdc in each st to last st. 2 hdc in last st. Ch 2. Turn.

Work a further 3 rows even in hdc. Rep last 4 rows 2 (3-4-4) times more. 33 (37-39-41, 43) sts.

*Cont even until work from beg measures 71/2 (9-91/2-101/2) ins [19 (23-24-26.5) cm]. Place a marker at each end of last row. Work a further

2 rows even omitting turning ch at end of last row. Fasten off.

Bottom Edging: With WS facing, join A with sl st to bottom left corner. Ch 1. 1 sc in same sp as sl st. 1 sc in each st across bottom of sleeve. 27 (29-29-31) sc. Turn.

Boy's Version only: Next row: Ch 1. Working from left to right instead of right to left as usual, work 1 reverse sc in each sc across. Fasten off.

Girl's Version only: Next row: Ch 1. 1 sc in first 1 (2-2-0) sc. *1 sc in next sc. Miss next 2 sc. 5 dc in next sc. Miss next 2 sc. Rep from * to last 2 (3-3-1) sc. 1 sc in last 2 (3-3-1) sc. Fasten off.

Hood

With MC, ch 77 (79-81-83).

Foundation row: (RS). 1 hdc in 3rd ch from hook. 1 hdc in each ch across. Ch 2. Turn. 75 (77-79-81) sts. Next 3 rows: 1 hdc in each st to end of row. Ch 2. Turn. Next row: Hdc2tog over first 2 sts. 1 hdc in each st to last 2 sts. Hdc2tog over last 2 sts. Ch 2. Turn. Rep last row to 59 (61-63-65) sts.

Cont even until work from beg measures 61/4 (63/4-7-71/4) ins [16 (17-18-18.5) cm], ending with RS facing and omitting turning ch at end of last row.

Shape back seam: Next 6 rows: Sl st in each of first 3 sts. 1 hdc in each st to last 3 sts. Turn. Leave rem sts unworked. 23 (25-27-29) sts. Fasten off.

Finishing

Pin garment pieces to measurements and cover with a damp cloth and allow cloth to dry.

Buttonhole Band: 1st row: With RS of Right Front facing for Her or Left Front facing for Him, work 34 (38-42-46) sc evenly along between neck edge and lower edge. Ch 1. Turn. 2nd row: 1 sc in each sc across. Ch 1. Turn. 3rd row:

1 sc in each of first 2 sc. *Ch 1. Miss next sc. 1 sc in each of next 6 (7-8-9) sc. Rep from * 3 times more. Ch 1. Miss next sc. 1 sc in each of last 3 sc. Ch 1. Turn. 4th row: 1 sc in each of first 3 sc. *1 sc in next ch-1 sp. 1 sc in each of 6 (7-8-9) sc. Rep from * 3 times more. 1 sc in next ch-1 sp. 1 sc in each of last 2 sc. Ch 1. Turn. 5th row: 1 sc in each sc across. Fasten off.

Button Band: Work as given for Buttonhole Band on Left Front for Her or Right Front for Him, omitting all reference to buttonholes.

Sew shoulder seams. Fold Hood in half along back seam edge and sew center back seam. Pin shaped edge of Hood to neck opening, beg at center of button or buttonhole bands and matching back seam of Hood to center back neck edge. Sew Hood in position.

Edging: With RS of work facing, join A with sl st to left side seam. Ch 1. 1 sc in same sp as sl st. Work 1 rnd of sc around entire outer edge of Jacket, working 3 sc in corners.

Boy's Version only: Next rnd: Ch 1. Working from left to right instead of right to left as usual, work 1 reverse sc in each sc around. Join with sl st to first sc. Fasten off.

Girl's Version only: Next rnd: Ch 1. 1 sc in same sp as sl st. Miss next 2 sc. 5 dc in next sc. Miss next 2 sc. Rep from * around. Join with sl st to first sc. Fasten off. Sew in Sleeves placing rows above markers along armhole edges of Fronts and Back to form square armholes. Sew side and sleeve seams, reversing 2 ins [5 cm] of sleeve seam at bottom for turn-back. Sew buttons to correspond to buttonholes.

Tip:
Abbreviations: beg=beginning; ch=chain; cm=centimeter(s); cont=continue(ity); dc=double crochet; hdc=half double crochet; in(s)=inch(es); mm=millimeter(s); mos=months; rem=remain(ing); rep=repeat; rnd=round; RS=right side; sc=single crochet; sl st(s)=slip stitch(es); sp=space(s); st(s)=stitch(es); WS=wrong side; Yoh=yarn over hook
Note: Turning ch 2 does not count as hdc

Updates - Where we are now.

2008-08-10T18:18:00.007-04:00

Long time, no blog. Thats simply because my family has been going through so much. My two sons were KIDNAPPED by DFCS/CPS. And I do mean KIDNAPPED! My sons were unlawfully taken because we are vegetarians.

Here's the link to our news story: http://www.wsbtv.com/video/17018923/index.html

My youngest son, 9 month Kanansi (by the way, it comes from the African fable Anansi the Spider, lots have asked), was taken to Hughes Spalding Children's Hospital in Atlanta because he choked while his father was feeding him on June 30, 2008. This happens a lot with preemie babies, as they continue to feed without stoping to take in air. We were told this by doctors of the hopital of his birth. We decided to take him to the local hospital just to make sure that he was okay. We has an appointment with his pediatrician as well.

The ER doctors and the attending doctors all said that Kanansi was okay, that is was just reflux. We were scheduled to be discharged on July 2, 2008. But when that morning came, it was another story. My husband arrived at the hospital to pick me and our son up, as I stayed with him for the previous nights. We were all set to go when this other doctor that we had never seen before came in to speak to us about our son. She had not reviewed any of his medical records but still had an opinion of what we needed to do. She explained to us that she wanted to do medical weight gain research on our baby. She said he fell into her research cateogory and that she gets funding for this. She wanted to give my son steriods and animal based products to see if he would gain weight. We promptly refused to allow our son to be a ginny pig for such research, stating the by our religious beliefs, we are vegetarians to do not use such products. She pleaded with us for at least an hour until finally saying that her opinion is welll accepted in the city of Atlanta and we should comply with what she wanted. She went on to say that a vegetarian lifestyle of organic fruits, veggies, nuts, grains, and legumes is not sufficient. We again refused.

The doctor left the room. We thought that is was over, but we did not know that she called the police and dfcs fabricating a claim that my husband and I were medically deproiving our baby. By this time, my husband had taken our 2yr old home. A DFCS agent came into the hospital room and told me that I had to leave because she was taking full custody of my son. I did not understand this as she did not give me a a warrant or a document from the court constesting that she had did an investigation and was granted custody. She didn't even give me so much as a business card. My two yr old was taken from the care of his paternal grandmother while my husband and I were out fighting the injustice that happened at the hospital. Again there were no court orders or documents contesting to this. After research on our own, my husbad and I have found that this is considered kidnapping.

In court we have been denied some of our basic rights including due process. Juvenile court is just pure bs and you really have to do your research. Did you know that to be a juvenile judge, you do not have to take an oath? You simply only need to have gone to law school. Wer did not know this at first either. We have now taken our case to the sumpreme court of Atlanta. We will be going to the distict court as well, We contacted our state governor and other high officials too.

Prior to going to the media, we had not seen our children in a month. Now we have supervised visitation. Me, a real mom, needs someone to look over me while I am with the children that I birthed? How crazy is that? But we are now able to see them. Instead of admitting that they are wrong and that they never actually invsetigated the complaint, DFCS now wants us to work with them. They want us to complete a senseless case plan. But I am not going for that. I intend to tak e this to the highest court. Of all the parents who use drugs or beat their chilren, my got taken because we are vegetarians.

We have several press releases scheduled for this week. Will try and update on where we will be.

my boys in my bed

Me and my boys. Happy. No abuse, no neglect. Just happiness.

Other Things I Haven't Posted About

1. I sent in all of donated the baby items to North Fulton Regional Hospital
NICU. It so nice to know that so many folks out there care about the little preemies who need so much love and care right onow. I hope to hose another donation drive for people to send in crocheted, knitted, and sewn baby items.

2. Although this was months ago, I still didn't put this on here. Here a shot of some of the items I sent on the June swap from swap swap gals to my partner Katrina, who lives here in Atlanta.

I saw on her blog that she was expecting. So I made diaper soakers, hats, and a bib. I also sent Caring for Your Baby: Birth to 5 yrs.

My other partner sent me a cute pink handbad and a crocheted hook case (i use it for my knitting needles, am trying to learn:)), and ami book called Super Crochet Wonderful that I have made one teddy from, and two little pocket books that I keep in the baby bag. Christina has pics on her blog. Thanks again. PS. She can crochet her butt off.

3. Despite the severe stress that I am under, I was able to finish my summer classes with a 3.0. fall semester starts next week, but I won't be doing it. I got a serious battle on my hands at the moment.

There was something else I was supposed to blog about, but I've forgotten. Got my babies on my mind.

Update on my son

2008-07-02T19:10:00.004-04:00

Well its Wednesday evening. I got small signal in the hospital so I wanted to write and do as much I can. On Monday evening, after a long day out with the family, my son choked. His father was feeding him his dinner and as the milk went down, Kanansi choked. He turned blue and stopped breathing and his little body went limp. I was so afraid. We called 911 and they walked us through cpr. After 2 minutes or so Kanansi finally began breathing. The emergency crew came and although he was okay, they still wanted us to go to the hospital. The explained to us again how preemies can do this sometimes, and its just reflux. We got there, at the hospital, about 11pm. And been here since. Test after test after test have been done and all have been negative. From the results of an ekg and eco exam, he has a heart murmur and small hole in it, But he's had that since birth. He's fine, and we know. We are just praying he will be able to come home soon.

Crocheting and Whats been going on this month.

2008-06-27T20:26:00.005-04:00

This month has been a whirlwind for my family. My youngest son, who was born 16 weeks premature and is now 8 mths and weighs less than 10lbs, has been having issues feeding and gaining weight. Which have in turn caused more "preemie symptoms". He has been going to the doctor very often with each result being the same: nothing has changed. So I've been praying things change for his next weekly check up which is Thursday. I personally have seen many changes in him. He's happy and cooing all the time with the biggest smiles. :) And he's gotten so much longer, nearly to big for his basinette.

Here is my snuggle bunny, Kanansi.

I've also been crocheting for charity. The hospital where Kanansi was born is supreme need of baby items. So I have been organizing a drive. I've gotten one organiztion on board and a few members of crochet groups that I belong to are donating as well. Which is really cool. But if you guys out there want to donate too, email me at katoyia_04@yahoo.com.

I've been crocheting little kids hats too.

rep mean rep till end

I did the magic circle and ch 3 and 9 dc in it.= 10 dc

ch 3, dc in same sp. 2 dc in ea. st = 20 dc

ch 3, 2 dc in next, 1 dc in next. rep = 30 dc

ch 3, 1 dc in next, * 2 dc in next, 1 dc in next two st.* rep = 40 dc

ch 3, 1 dc in next 2 dc, *2 dc in next, 1 dc in next 3sts* rep =50dc

ch 3, 1 dc in next 3 dc, * 2 dc in next, 1 dc in next 4 sts* rep = 60sts

ch 3, 1 dc in ea st to the end. rep for 4 more rows.

For rows 12-17, sc in ea st around.

now just add your own bib or brim!

Corn has come!

2008-06-27T20:17:00.004-04:00

This is a young cob.

These are two little kernels growing outside of a cob.

This is a pod of black beans. We did't know how they grew so we planted them.

My Camera USB cord

2008-06-06T13:11:00.003-04:00

My husband lost my camera usb cord! That really sucks. So now I've got to find out where to buy another so that I can upload pics. And I've got so many. I'm going nuts.

My Memorial

2008-05-27T01:11:00.003-04:00

Its 1 am.

So my family doesn't really celebrate any major holidays so there was no huge gathering of people at my house today. But I did enjoy the day. I spent two hours in my garden nonstop, played with my oldest son in his inflatable baby swimming pool, cooked two seperate meals (one for today and one for tomorrow), crocheted a little on the green hat I am making for my husband, added more pics to my image board, and of course took a two hour nap. I was pooped. But I was amazed at all I've gotten done today.

For tomorrow, I've got to go down to my school and pay my tuition for my summer session. I only taking one class, Anthroplogy. I am sure that all I have time for really. My summer is pretty booked. A trip home to Florida, mommy and me classes, story time at barnes and nobles, zoo, atlanta botanical gardens, and more. Now that Ka'lel's 2, we can do more together and I can still bring along our new baby too. Did I mention that we are starting home school too! I've really got my work cut out with all of this, my own things, and potty training. Plus daily housework, baby.......

I've gotta go to bed now. Gotta get up a 7 to start a new day :)

What I've been up to

2008-05-23T19:45:00.003-04:00

So I've been particpating in crochet exchanges on one my yahoo groups, Atmyhouse (I don't actually own it, but am a member. Let me just say that these are some of the nicest people. Always willing to help!. My first exchange was a cap/hat exchange. And wouldn't you know, I forgeot to take pictures! It was such a pretty beanie. I used peaches and creme cooton yarn in black and fiesta. The pattern I used was from the Hooked Hats book. My husband kept begging for it.

My second exchange is a market bag exchange on ravelry. Again I am using peaches and creme cotton yarn. I will definetly take pictures of this one!

My Babies!

2008-05-10T19:24:00.003-04:00

These are my two snuggle bunnies. Aren't they just precious!

Oh How My Garden Grows!

2008-05-10T19:19:00.001-04:00

This is my organic garden. This year, I decided to do the square foot garden. Its okay. As per the creater, he says to use small amounts of seeds. But I will definitely increase the amount the next go around. This is nearly 2 months after planting.

Square foot grid 1- This contains corn, black beans, snow peas, bell peppers, lima beans, green beans, okra, tomatoes, fryinh peppers, loufah

Square foot grid 2- This contains onions, zucchini, squash, scallons, celery,

Not much has grown here

Square foot grid 3- This contains cabbage, broccoli, kale, and spinach. You xan see the cabbage is hube and the spinach is just budding.

Square foot grid 4- This contains about 12 different herbs, arugula, cauliflower, lettuce mix, barcole, buttercrunch, and romaine, collard, turnip, and mustard greens too. My salad square. lol.

Close up images.

These two are pics of my arugula up close. Its so tall now! and has produce a nice number of salads.

My raspberry bush. The leave bolted in the sun, so I gotta move them to a more shaded area.

The big cabbage

The small cabbage

My carrots. Once the leaves fall over, they''ll be ready.

This is a blend of tomatoes that are seperate from the ones in the square foot grid.

Some seedling potatoes. hmmm.

My grape vine has bloomed!

This is an up close pic of some snow peas. I pick some of them to make some baby food for my youngest son. This was his first taste of food. He screamed for more when he finished the jar.

Mother's Day Crochet

2008-05-08T03:12:00.001-04:00

This is the afghan that I made for my mom for mothers day. I used herrschner's afghan yarn in dark plum (5), small amount of white, caron's simply soft in orchid (1) and herrschner's spectrum violet (2). I really liked the way that it turned out and am quite proud of myself for my very first afghan. Currently, I am working on one for my mother in-law, but I making it in shades of blue, using chevron stripes. I'll take pictures of it as soon as I finish it.

Swap Swap Girls

2008-05-07T18:02:00.001-04:00

Wish List: Swap Swap Gals

Hobbies? journaling, painting
Crafts? crocheting, soapmaking
Favorite Colors? pink, yellow, white
Favorite Animal? puppy
All Dislikes? not sure
Favorite Candies? lindt's white chocolate coconut
Favorite Smell Goods? rockin rio by estrada and romance
Other things you may like or may not like?

What I've been working on.

2008-05-04T00:39:00.001-04:00

I've been very busy crocheting hats for the summer, especially baby ones and making soap. I've actually just set up an etsy shop this past week. It can be found at www.stringtheorem.etsy.com. There you will find a couple of my current projects and some of my soaps.

I've been making soap for nearly 3 years now and every since I've started, I haven't stopped. I use the soap that I make as well. I use all organic vegetable oils such as olive and coconut in tghe soapmaking process. And nearly all of my soaps are vegan, with the exception of my soaps that use honey or milk to soften the skin. This week, I got a huge wholesale order for my soaps. Yay! So now my soaps are sold at Cultural Affairs in Little 5 Pts here in Atlanta. I'm so excited and I look forward on continuing to work with the store owner.

I am planning on participating in a couple of markets this summer, but haven't 100% decided on any.

A new home

2008-05-03T23:17:00.001-04:00

I've been wanting to create a blog but just haven't taken the time to do so. Well today is the day that I do so. I am looking forward to this being a expression of myself and my art.