The Jessica Scarflet!!!!

'Tis the season for a free pattern!!!  I can't take credit for this one, my girl, Jessica made this and I became completely obsessed with it last year and made one for pretty much everyone on my list.  She posted a free pattern here or you can just use this one that I adapted.

The Jessica Scarfflette

Hook Size G, 2 skeins Manos Silk Blend

Ch 31. 

Row 1: 2 DC in the 4th Ch from hook. Skip 2 Ch, SC in the next Ch. *Skip 2 Ch, 5 DC in next Ch* repeat from * 3 times. Skip 2, Sc in last chain. Turn.

Row 2: Ch 3, 2 DC in same Sc from previous row. *SC into the 3rd DC from previous row, 5 DC in the next SC in the previous row.* repeat from * 3 times. SC in the top of the Ch 3 from previous round. Turn.

Repeat Row 2 until piece measures aprx. 28”. On last row, do not end yarn, continue scallop pattern around the other 3 sides of scarf. Sew on 5 buttons, vertically, along the bottom right side of the scarf. Buttons will fit through holes created by crochet stitch.

Here is a recent one that I made with a different yarn.  This is made with Monsoon, which is a chunkier yarn, so I used a K hook with this guy.  Below I have a comparison between the Monsoon version and the Manos version.

Hope you like this pattern.  I also have another free crochet pattern coming soon! Until then, Happy Yarning!

Beverages

Winter is practically here and I wanted to share with you a few of my favorite winter drinks.  First up is my Caramel Apple Cider Cocktail.   I came up with this recipe a few weeks ago (although I am sure there are some similar recipes out there).

Ingredients (makes one drink)

1 c. Spiced or Mulled Apple Cider

1 shot Butterscotch Schnapps

1 shot Whipped Cream Vodka

Caramel sauce, whipped cream, ice (optional)

Ingredients (makes 1 pitcher, apx. 5 drinks)

5 c. Spiced or Mulled Apple Cider 

1/2 c. Butterscotch Schnapps

1/2 c. Whipped Cream Vodka

I buy apple cider from the store, I heat it up in a pot on the stove or in a crock pot and steep mulling spices in a tea ball infuser.  (At this time of year you can usually find the mulling spice next to the apple cider in the produce department.)  Although this adds depth of flavor, it is by no means necessary.  I mix the cider and alcohol together pour it on ice or serve it hot in a mug.  I like a small amount of caramel ice cream sauce in mine, but it is also fun to serve topped with whipped cream with caramel drizzle.

Chai Tea has become pretty popular and my best friend came over with a Vanilla Chai Latte form the new Dunkin Donuts up the street.  One sip and I knew I could make it and for WAY cheaper.  Here is what I came up with.

Ingredients (Make 3 drinks)

Chai Tea Bag  (I use Twinings)

3 c. water

Vanilla simple syrup (recipe below)

Milk

I use one Chai Tea Bag per 3 c. of water, this makes a weaker tea which is pretty common when buying the drinks at a fast food restaurant.  In a mug, I pour in 1-2 Tbs. vanilla simple syrup, I nearly fill the cup with the prepared tea and then add a splash (about 2 tbs.) of milk.

Vanilla Simple Syrup

1 1/2 c. water

1 1/2 c. sugar

1 tsp. vanilla extract

Heat the water and sugar in a saucepan over Med. heat just until all of the sugar is dissolved. Remove from hear and add the extract.  You can store this in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

I hope everyone drinks lots (responsibly) during this holiday season.  Until next time, Cheers!!!

Headbands!

I have started on Christmas already!!!  I have been a knitting fool and I am completely obsessed with making these headbands!!!

You can find this FREE Pattern, The Morning Walk Headband Ear Warmer, here and it is super easy and quick to make.

I just. can't. get. enough.  And I have decided that I need one in every color. I use vintage buttons and I have been crocheting a ton of wool flowers for embellishments.  

I am also considering knitting another sweater....  this time with a pattern.  Am I crazy or what?  :-) Until next time, Happy Yarning!!!