Crocheted Snowflake Garland

I have been busy crocheting lately.  I have many things to share with you over the next few days!  Plus, I procrastinated yet again and I'm scrambling to finish a another baby blanket!  I'm trying out another new pattern so it makes it much more fun to do!

I've had a pattern for snowflake garland for awhile and I wanted to make it for my January decorations.  It would have been ideal to have it finished right after Christmas.  Well, January is almost over and I just finished it!  I can check that off my list and get to other things.  After all,  I have Valentine's Day decorations I want to work on!

This was a quick and easy pattern.  The pattern itself says it is for an intermediate crocheter.  I don't agree.  I thought it was fairly easy.  If you know all the stitches, you can complete it fast!

There should be a beautiful coffee filter wreath hanging from the mirror, but it isn't finished yet.  I have issues focusing.  I have so many crafts I want to do that I have a few going at a time.  Hopefully, the wreath will be finished soon!

close-up of the snowflakes

The pattern is provided by Red Heart and can be downloaded here.  I added a piece to each end so that I would have something to hang it by.  Here are the details of that piece:  Chain 15.  Hdc in each st.  Sl st into third loop of last snowflake.  Sl st back into other side of chain.  Fasten off.  Repeat for other side.

I really like it!  I think it is a nice decoration to go with my other winter whites.  Valentine's Day is up next.  Wait till you see what I am working on for my mantle!

Ground Beef Barbecue

My Mom has made this recipe since before I was born.  It is a family favorite and delicious. 

When you look at the picture or the recipe, you might think this is a recipe for Sloppy Joes. This is NOT Sloppy Joes.  It is FAR better!

Between my Mom and I we decided our best estimate on how much to use of each ingredient.  My Mom is a fantastic cook and she had taught me to cook the same way, by taste.  The key to this recipe is to taste, let simmer, taste and add to it if you need to.  The sauce should be tangy (sweet and a bit of a bite).  The recipe can be doubled and is great for feeding a crowd.  I hope you enjoy it as much as our family does!

My Mom's Ground Beef Barbecue

Half of a small onion, chopped (optional)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup ketchup
1 teaspoon yellow mustard
1 tablespoon vinegar
1 pound ground beef

Brown onion and ground beef.  Add all the other ingredients and let simmer.  Serve on a hamburger bun with sweet relish.

Enjoy!