#chevron baby blanket

[mychlapci]

I think at some point, the rescue would have to recognize that this is as good as it gets for k9 Prowl and just… have to place him with a long-term caretaker. They’re not about to execute a mech for being abused, no matter how difficult his circumstances make him to care for. They have to transition him out of the rescue setting when they stop making good progress; they need that kennel for new rescues. Personally, I bet leaving a rescue setting to a ‘home’ setting would actually have more results for Prowl’s healing but idk. He’d officially be a retired k9 unit, still much closer to a pet mech than a person. But consistent 1-on-1 attention is what he needs.

And a dedicated caretaker could probably adjust to the fact that yeah, making Prowl sit at a table to eat freaks him out a lot more than letting him sip his cube on the floor next to them. As long as you let him sit on the floor, he’ll drink his cube like a person instead of mashing his face into it. Added bonus: it doesn’t put him in high alert and leave him anxious and high strung all day.

Teaching him to use the toilet is easy, but the shower is harder. Prowl hates being dirty but fears the small box with the loud rain!! He doesn’t like the hose!! He will, however, consent to being wiped down with a rag. And he loves a warm bath, no matter how impractical. His caretaker will let him sit in it until the solvent/water gets cold because 1) he loves it and 2) he will /sulk/ if you take him out before he’s ready. Prowl will even paw at himself with the rag a little if you leave him one! Self grooming is progress, no matter how clumsy.

Getting him to speak freely is infinitely harder, but he’d have no problem learning the “check in” command! It only makes sense that his handler wants to know Prowl’s condition, after all. They’d have to trick him into having opinions, but taking him for walkies is a great way of getting him to use his mind and his words. All it takes is a little hmm-ing or a “I wonder what happened here?” and Prowl almost cannot contain himself. Full body wiggles trying to keep his mouth shut, but /this/ owner wants him to speak so? Maybe? It’s okay? And he’d veeeery carefully answer— just a quick, quiet one!! Nothing too bad, he’s still a good boy! But they only smile at him and pet him a little on the shoulder. Not the helm, not on their walkie. Prowl’s performing the “undercover” command, so he’s walking like a real mech. Perfect for keeping criminals from realizing there’s a k9 unit sniffing around, you know. His new handler knows so many tricks.

The cage thing I don’t think they’d ever truly manage to get around, not even in a far future of this au where Prowl has been tricked and coaxed into being a real person. But they /would/ manage to transition him from a true kennel to a box bed situation. At least he’s on a mattress with a blanket and pillows, even if his situation is still odd.

I also don’t think they’d ever manage to get him living fully independently. He’s spent too many years being treated like a beast and blindly obedient to any sufficiently stern authority figure. Prowl’s missed out on key formative experiences and life skills that just… don’t take for him. There’s some things he will just never get, no matter how long he lives. Grocery shopping is a special struggle, with all the choices and the sensory overload. He and his caretaker will share a long fucking laugh when they realize that the caretaker is effectively /Prowl’s/ working animal now. His emotional support mechanism, if you will.

But I think the most critical healing experience would be encountering one of Prowl’s “puppies” in public and him just realizing that that is a /person/. Recognizing his own face or wings or chevron in some cute little sparkling and just. Staring. A carrier never forgets the scent of their kid. He knows that’s his baby. Maybe the kid recognizes him instinctively despite not ever really having known him and runs right up. All Prowl can do is cup their tiny face in his hands and press his chevron to their tiny one. And this tiny, little, /free/ person is someone that /Prowl/ made. And if he carried a person and not a puppy… what does that make him?

Yesss... Prowl never truly recovers. It's not unheard of, but it's rare. Most of the k9 units and other mechs-turned-pets usually yearn for freedom and the right to command themselves, but Prowl just. Doesn't. He takes orders from the enforces, captures and mauls criminals as per their demand, and that's it.

He never really relaxes. He's notably safer with his new handler, but in his mind, he never really stopped being a prized k9 unit. They learn what makes Prowl tick and how to loophole around his inability to act like a person... But oh, oh, the sparkling changes things. Prowl knows it's his. It came out of him after one too many visits from enforcers in the dead of the night. It walks on two legs and for how young it is, it talks without regulation. It's allowed to do that. The little one is growing up to be just like the mechs around them. It's not an animal.

Perhaps Prowl musters up the courage to question his own position in this world one day... but until then, he's perfectly content sitting at his handler's feet. Obediently.

[things-from-strings]

was fucking around w/ color & think i may have accidentally started a baby blanket 😶‍🌫️ 🔥⭐️🔥

probably a good thing; seems like everyone around me is starting families, & what kind of crocheter would i be if i didn't make things for the next gen?

keeping in w/ family tradition, i'll stick to dc stripes & chevron patterns (& terrible but everlasting yarn lol)

[dowawitch]

I’ve been awake for over 30 hours and I’m absolutely miserable BUT I finished this baby blanket that I started last year and had to set aside while my back/shoulders were raising hell!

Pattern is Crochet Chevron Blanket by Daisy Farm Crafts with adjustments for the smaller yarn i used

End wedges were filled in via trial and error

Yarn is Lion Brand Mandala Bonus Bundle in Gnome and for this size, took a little more than a skein and a half using a 3.5mm hook

[ericacrochets]

Easy Chevron Baby Blanket by Dawn M Castillo

Free Crochet Pattern Here*** Video Pattern Only ***

[dangerousyako]

I crocheted a baby blanket for a friend's cousin because i really wanted to get back into blankets after having done nothing but potholders and cross stitch since august

I wanted to try chevron stitch and it did not disappoint! it's really comfortable to crochet and goes really quick - i finished it in pretty much a week

The finished object is about 80cm x 1,10m, using DMC Knitty 6 - it's important for me that blankets be washable. I'm glad the colours worked out!

[tamlovesfashion]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: COPY - Vintage 1980's Crochet Afghan Blanket Retro Chevrons Pop Neon Bright 44"….

[bestparenting12]

Exploring Bernat Baby Sport Yarn for Cozy Kids' Projects

When it comes to crafting for kids, the materials you choose can make all the difference. Whether you're knitting a warm blanket, crocheting an adorable hat, or creating soft booties, finding the right yarn ensures comfort, durability, and ease of care. One standout option for children's projects is Bernat Baby Sport Yarn. Known for its versatility, quality, and affordability, this yarn has become a favorite among crafting enthusiasts. Let's dive into what makes Bernat Baby Sport Yarn a perfect choice for cozy kids' projects.

What is Bernat Baby Sport Yarn?

Bernat Baby Sport Yarn is a premium, lightweight acrylic yarn designed specifically for baby and children’s items. Manufactured by Yarnspirations, it comes in a wide range of pastel shades and gentle hues that are perfect for kids. It is categorized as a lightweight yarn (#3), making it ideal for creating soft, delicate projects without being too bulky.

The yarn is made of 100% acrylic, which means it’s hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin. It also boasts excellent durability, making it a practical choice for items that will be frequently washed and worn.

Key Features of Bernat Baby Sport Yarn

SoftnessOne of the standout qualities of Bernat Baby Sport Yarn is its incredible softness. Babies and children have delicate skin, so choosing a yarn that won’t cause irritation is essential. This yarn delivers a smooth texture that feels gentle and cozy against the skin, making it ideal for garments, blankets, and accessories.

DurabilityKids can be rough on clothing and toys, so durability is a must. Bernat Baby Sport Yarn holds up well under frequent use and washing. Thanks to its acrylic composition, it resists pilling and maintains its shape over time.

Machine Washable and DryableAs any parent knows, kids' items need to be easy to clean. Bernat Baby Sport Yarn is both machine washable and dryable, which simplifies the care process. This feature is particularly helpful for blankets, sweaters, and other everyday items that may need frequent laundering.

Generous YardageEach skein of Bernat Baby Sport Yarn offers a generous yardage of approximately 1,250 yards (1,143 meters). This makes it an economical choice for larger projects like baby blankets or multiple smaller items.

Range of ColorsThe color palette of Bernat Baby Sport Yarn is designed with kids in mind. From soft pastels like "Baby Pink" and "Baby Blue" to neutral shades like "White" and "Pale Grey," there’s a color to suit every project. The subtle tones are versatile and timeless, perfect for creating heirloom-quality pieces.

Top Project Ideas with Bernat Baby Sport Yarn

Baby BlanketsBaby blankets are among the most popular projects for Bernat Baby Sport Yarn. Its lightweight nature makes it ideal for creating cozy, breathable blankets that keep babies comfortable without overheating. Consider patterns like chevron stripes, granny squares, or simple garter stitch designs.

Hats and BootiesTiny hats and booties are always a hit with new parents. The softness of Bernat Baby Sport Yarn ensures these items are gentle on delicate skin, while the durability means they’ll last through countless wears and washes.

Sweaters and CardigansFor slightly more advanced crafters, lightweight sweaters and cardigans are a wonderful option. The even stitch definition of this yarn helps intricate patterns like cables or lace stand out beautifully.

Toys and AmigurumiBernat Baby Sport Yarn works well for creating soft toys and amigurumi. Its smooth texture makes crocheting or knitting small details a breeze, while the vibrant colors bring characters to life.

Loveys and Security BlanketsA lovey—a combination of a stuffed toy and a small blanket—can provide comfort and security to young children. Bernat Baby Sport Yarn’s softness and color variety make it a fantastic choice for these cherished items.

Tips for Working with Bernat Baby Sport Yarn

Choose the Right ToolsThis yarn pairs well with knitting needles or crochet hooks sized 4mm to 5mm (US sizes 6 to 8). Using the recommended tools ensures a smooth crafting experience and produces even stitches.

Block for a Professional FinishBlocking is a simple technique that helps your finished projects lay flat and look polished. Since Bernat Baby Sport Yarn is acrylic, consider using the steam-blocking method to avoid damaging the fibers.

Check Dye LotsWhen purchasing multiple skeins for a large project, be sure to check the dye lot numbers. While Bernat Baby Sport Yarn is known for its consistent quality, slight color variations can occur between different dye lots.

Experiment with PatternsBernat Baby Sport Yarn has excellent stitch definition, making it perfect for experimenting with various patterns and textures. Try combining basic stitches with intricate details to create visually stunning pieces.

Where to Buy Bernat Baby Sport Yarn

Bernat Baby Sport Yarn is widely available both online and in craft stores. Retailers like Yarnspirations, Michaels, and Joann carry this yarn in a variety of colors. It’s also frequently on sale, making it an affordable option for crafters of all levels.

Why Choose Bernat Baby Sport Yarn for Kids' Projects?

Bernat Baby Sport Yarn stands out for its combination of softness, durability, and affordability. It’s a practical choice for creating items that will be loved and used regularly, while its wide range of colors allows for endless creativity. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, this yarn is sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

So grab your needles or hooks, pick your favorite colors, and let your creativity shine!

[vivus09]

Since 2023, I have been keeping something know as my Chaos Calender. Everytime an event I deem noteworthy happens, I add it to the calender. I feel like now it a good time to share it.

{2023}

January

-Beyoncé Dubai concert video

-Doja Cat bedazzled with Schiaparelli

-Noah Schnapp came out

February

-Chinese spy balloon burst

March

-Eras tour

-TikTok ban panic

-Trump crime thingy

April

-AI started popping up

May

-Prince Charles crowned

June

-🎶Toxic Gossip Train🎶

August

-The Battle Of Montgomery (Dinner cruise Vs. Pontoon)

- new shape discovered

- Zepotha chaos

- The Joe Hawley document

- Hawaii wildfires

- Ancient underworld passage in Mexico

- Telescopes are time machines

- Trump got arrested

- LIL TAY IS DEAD!?

September

-TIMOTHEE AND KYLIE!?

-Danelo Cavalcante is caught.

-Libya is under water

-Brooklyn is under water

October

-LIL TAY ISN'T DEAD!?

-Israel starts a genocide

-The great Minecraft revolution

-jacksfilm and ssniperwolf drama

November

-New island pops up in Japan.

-Nicholas Cantu punches Dream

December

-Gypsy Rose Blanchard released from jail.

{2024}

January

-Man sneaks into and videos the Bohemian Grove

-Japan earthquakes

-Epstein list

-A LOT of bodies found behind a police station

-guy attacks judge

-Matpat is quitting

-Stanley cup craze

-Why are babies at Sephora

-YanDev apology video

-Golden Globes laugh track

-ThatVeganTeacher starts a cult

-LUBERTO IS CANON

-RIP Lynja :(

-Verbalase 50k vid

-Stallion V. Minaj

February

-The great TikTok muting

-LAUFEY WINS BEST TRADITIONAL POP VOCAL ALBUM GRAMMY AWARD 2024 FUCK YEAH!!!🔥 🔥 🔥

-MOANA 2 IS APPARENTLY A THING AND COMING OUT THIS YEAR!? LET'S FUCKING GOOOO!

- Stanley Cups have lead in them.

- OpenAi Sora

- Wendy Williams has Frontotemporal Dementia :(

- Rest In Power Aaron Bushnell.

- The downfall of Wilbur Soot (fuck that asshole for abusing Shubble).

March

-JANICE BURGESS IS DEAD WHAT THE FUCK.

- The government is trying to ban TikTok (Again).

- MatPat's final theory

- Quiet On Set documentary

April

-JoJo Siwa drama (Brit Smith 🔛🔝)

-EKT HAS BEEN FOUND

-Man or bear? (Bear)

May

-NYC blanket couple

-Drake V. Kendrick

-Blockout 2024

-JUSTICE FOR JOOST KLEIN

-The northern white rhino has gone extinct.

June

-TRUMP WAS FOUND GUILTY ON 34 COUNTS!

-Chappel Roan as the statue of liberty (yes this is important).

-French people shitting in the Seine.

-Oklahoma board of education mandates a bible in every classroom (It is so much worse than this but I am so fucking tired).

-Chevron Deference has been oveturned.

[skyrya]

My first short story: the story of Opal and Rosemary.

An arm draped out the passenger window, hand swooping through the salty sea air, all Opal could think of, was her hands. She looked at her hand, bringing it up, slowly whirling it through the fast-passing air. Observing her nails and noting the darkness that spread along her nailbeds. The dry, cracking cuticles. Twirling her hand to follow the aged blue path of varicose veins. There’s so much more texture and wrinkles than she thought she’d end up with. She could still picture the smoothness of her hands as a teenager. A softness. What once was so fresh and delicate, now thinned and decaying. Just like the rest of her.

She followed the path of one of the veins, swooping along the inner side of her elbow. Her gaze momentarily lagged on the large purple-green bruise that was still at least a week away from fading, especially with how much slower her body got healing these days.

Snapping out of it, Opal’s gaze drifted up—through the window, to the vast horizon beyond a railing and small land of the whitest sand she’d ever seen. An endless ocean lie ahead. A distance so far, all she could see was a straight line cutting diagonally in the distance between the dark blues of the waves, and the endless baby blanket above. A light blue so empty of clouds, she let herself believe, for a split second, she may never get to see a cloud again.

         Lowering her hand, Opal tilted her head back, leaning on the headrest, and took a deep breath in. The refreshing, salty, and slightly misty air that she would never forget, till her dying breath. “I remember the first time we went to the beach together. What were we… Twelve?” A voice said from her left. Opal’s gaze drifted to the woman next to her. Copper, shoulder length hair billowing in the breeze. She was hoping Rosemary could still see the road correctly with how much her hair was in her eyes.

With a grin, Opal said, “Wasn’t that also the time you accidentally stepped on a crab and cried for an hour because you were scared you killed it?”

Rosemary laughed. “I think you also pushed me into my sister’s sandcastle that day. She cut my favorite Barbie’s hair off for that.”

Opal could still picture it, rewinding through her mental VHS tape. She loved being girls with Rosemary. They had been friends for so long, that she couldn’t remember a time when they weren’t friends. Rosemary was the one constant boulder rolling along with Opal, her whole path of life. Wherever one of them went, the other was right beside. From first crushes and learning to skateboard, to getting ready for first dates and football games, to the dorm rooms and first apartments, to their breakups and impulsive matching tattoos, to their weddings and divorces, to seeing much of life and much of death. They were there for it all.

Rosemary slowly pulled the car into a gas station—the first thing they’d passed in at least thirty minutes. The convertible was an unexpected surprise, when Opal had awoken to Rosemary’s short frame cross-armed above her, telling her, get up, we’re going on a trip. The week before, Opal got news that her cancer came back, full swinging. There was no stopping it this time. Her days were now numbered. Chemo wasn’t going to stop it, just extend it.

Opal didn’t want her last months to be full of the misery that is cancer treatment. She wanted to experience her last days. To live them. So, Rosemary, Opals longest friend, the only person she had left, and the only one she needed, picked her up in her sisters bright red convertible, and then set off on a trip along the coast.

Rosemary and Opal said a friendly hello to the young man working the register, the Chevron brand across his chest, and all they bought was two of the cheapest bottles of white wine they could find, and before they knew it, they were back on the road.

Finding themselves on an empty beach, Rosemary and Opal sat atop the small dunes, toasting their bottles to the lowering sun. Recounting to each-other some of their favorite memories over these long years. The sky above was a beautiful maelstrom of light pinks and oranges, still not a cloud to be seen. Swigging straight out of the bottle, Opal said, “I don’t know if I’ll ever truly be ready, Rose. To die.” Keeping her eyes towards the canvas being painted in the sky.

Rose cut a glance towards her best friend. Her eyebrows pulling together slightly. “I don’t know if I’ll ever truly be ready to lose you, either. You’ve been by my side my whole life, how am I supposed to do anything without you?” Rosemary replied. Opal grabbed her hand, running her thumb along the top side. Rosemary continued, “I know I have the kids, but who will I ask when my memories become foggy? What if I forget our stories? What if I forget the sound of your voice?” Rosemary’s voice cracked.

Giving her hand a slight squeeze, Opal responded, “Life is like that, dear. I can’t remember if my moms’ eyes were more of a hay brown or a soil brown. But I can remember her laugh. Perhaps my voice will linger. And luckily, we’ve been telling your kids our stories all these years. I think they remember them more than us by now.” For Opal never had kids. She was married, and for a small time she had the perfect American Family. But they divorced after five years of failing to fall pregnant. Opal made peace with that aspect of her life long ago, and took joy in teaching sixth grade English for her 40-year career. The children were scoundrels, and she was fine with going home to a quiet house. But Rosemary had three. Opals two goddaughters, Emma and Amelia, and godson, Hudson. The three were the angels of her life.

She swore to herself while young that she would never become like all the elders she knew; grumpy, lifeless, angry. She would remind herself the beauty of the little time she got in her glimpse of the world. Appreciate the small things. She tried to keep the child in her alive, and working with kids helped her stay grounded.

The two women fell into a comfortable quiet, taking swigs out of their wine bottles and enjoying the setting sun. When the sky turned into a darkness so complete, that you couldn’t tell if the ocean ended ahead of them or not, Rosemary whispered, barely audible over the crashing of the waves, “You could do chemo…you could try it.” Opal sucked in a sharp breath. “You never know. It could work. It could give us more time together.”

Opal let herself consider it for a moment. The doctors told her the chances of survival were miniscule, but not none. She then let herself remember her mom’s brutal final battle with cancer. The extensive suffering she went through at the end. Opal mustered up a half-smile, wiggling her toes through the sand. “I’m not doing that again, Rose.” She said. The two women met eyes. The unsaid words lingering in the air. The fears of how Rosemary was going to live on without Opal. Opals fears sneaking through the mask she wore, constantly trying to hide her inevitable fate. 

That night, while lying in the bed of a random hotel they found along their journey, Opal’s mind drifted to how she would feel if the roles were reversed. She knew the feeling of loss. The way that after the stages of grief, the pain can scab. It’s still there, it will always be there, like a scar, but some days are easier. Other days the scab can be snagged on memories unexpectedly, or she could stumble across a picture, and the loss feels as fresh as the day it happened. But perhaps this will be different. None she had lost had been quite as important to her as Rosemary had been. It is different when the person is someone you chose to be your sister.

When they were only twenty-four, they lost a close mutual friend that they met in high-school. Catalina overdosed at a concert in the 70s, it was sudden and traumatic, and changed both of the women’s view on the inevitable end. Her loss felt like a battle wound that had echoed all these years. But Rose and Opal had each-other through that. When Opal’s mother lost her own miserable battle with cancer when they were thirty-two, Rosemary was there with Opal every day, holding her mother’s other hand. Last year, when Opal was freshly cancer-free, Rosemary’s husband had an unexpected heart attack. Of course, Opal was there within the hour, holding her best friend through the body shaking sobs.

Early the next morning, the two found themselves boarding a whale watching boat. Opal felt the chill of the harsh wind in her bones, and the crew found the women a warm space inside, with a floor to ceiling window, so they could still see everything, while being comfortable. The magnificent ocean beasts bursting into the air was a sight that had the women grasping for one another’s hand. The gush of sea water causing the unending rocking of the boat. There were times when Opal was staring into the vast waves, and she saw Rose in her peripheral, staring at her with a pained gleam in her eyes. As if she was committing her face to memory. Maybe the universe knew exactly what this trip was for the two life-long friends, because as they left, the guide commented on how that was the most whales he had seen in years. Opal lost count after the tenth.

The next few days were spent similarly. Driving, sightseeing, laughing, avoiding talking about the future that was too painful to linger on. They recounted their college years. The clubs in New York on their first big trip together. Opal pulling Rosemary with her to dance on the tables, on stage to sing karaoke together, atop the Empire State Building where they danced and screamed into the sky and giggled and knew that it was still their beginning. The bustling city below a promise of opportunity. Opal noticed Rosemary’s eyes glisten while recounting her memories. She didn’t comment on it.

Instead, Opal said, “Since todays our last day here, let’s just sit and watch the sunset again. My body hurts too much to walk around much more.” Her muscles were achy everywhere.

Aging wasn’t as graceful as Opal always imagined it would be. She missed jumping. Running. Swimming with full force. She missed her body being nimble and expendable. Now, she barely grazes her arm on a wall and her weak skin cuts itself. She can’t get off a couch without someone reaching out a hand to help her up. She felt, in a way, trapped in this body. Maybe in death she will be set free.

The first beach Rosemary drove them to, had too many stairs to walk down, and with a single glance they both knew there was no way either of them would be able to descend them all.

The second beach gave them better luck. The mid-spring day was chilly, the breeze unforgiving. They bought some blankets at a small gift shop near the parking lot, and began the short walk to this more accessible beach. Opal noted every time Rosemary looked at her. Every worried glance as her body showed a minuscule sign of weakness or pain.

Before they knew it, the women were bundled together looking out at the sea.

“This is the last time I’ll look into the ocean.” Opal said without thinking.

“I’m happy to be spending it here with you.” said Rosemary.

Opal wished death was easier than this. That it wasn’t so painful.

Opal grasped her best friend’s hand. She noted the age showing through. “It’ll never be a good time to say this, Rose, but thank you for everything. For never leaving me. For not just becoming a childhood memory, someone I always wondered about, but for being my rock. For allowing me the honor of your shoulder to bear the weight of life with me. For the gift of my godchildren,” a single tear made its way down Rosemary’s cheek. “For this trip, for every trip, for every moment.” Opal finished with a smile, and for that moment, looking into the eyes of her longest friend, she didn’t feel her age. She didn’t feel the tension in her neck as the muscles lifted into the truest of smiles she’d given in years.

Rosemary felt the weight of those words hit her with such an intensity she didn’t know if she could breathe. Was the wetness on her cheeks from the sea mist? Or was she crying? She realized it was the latter as a sob broke from her throat. She didn’t realize until that moment how badly she needed to hear those words from her best friend. Even if she knew deep down, she could never truly accept that Opal was to die so soon. But she would stand by Opal. Through anything. Before Opal, she would have never thought her life would have held so much. The girl she met in elementary school became more than a sister. She was her soulmate.

“It was an honor, Opal,” Rosemary finally got out. “There is nobody else I would have chosen as my sister. I don’t know how I will live through losing you. I know you won’t do chemo; I truly understand. It just… it just feels so unreal that we’ve really reached the last chapters of our story. I will forever respect your choices, and stand by them, but…” she trailed off, looking towards the seagulls near the waters edge.

“There is a part of you that can’t accept it?” Opal asked gently. Rosemary nodded. Something about the way she nodded; Opal suddenly wasn’t on that beach. They were fifteen, in trouble for sneaking out. They were twenty-two, caught red handed by security for sneaking back-stage at a concert. Opal saw Rosemary simultaneously as the woman she had become today, aged and weathered by life, and every age she was before that.

In that moment, the trueness of life being so unfair hit both women. The inevitability of oblivion, the ineluctable truth of this existence. And nothing but acceptance flew through them both. There wasn’t much to say after that. Not between the two women who in most cases needed not more than a look to converse. Opal and Rosemary leaned against each-other, and enjoyed the setting sun.

The following day, they began their journey back home. Ending up in the same town they grew up in was never the goal as kids. They used to talk of all the options of where they wanted to retire one day. Italy, Norway, Austria, Ireland. But after the decades of traveling to all those places together, and more, they realized how deep their love of their hometown ran. Anywhere else never gave Opal that overwhelming feeling of belonging.

The drive was quiet. The only sound the whipping of the breeze as they passed farms and small towns. Opal felt the reverberations of this trip through every inch of her body. As thankful as she was for Rosemary taking her sisters convertible for this trip, she was really wishing they had a roof over them.

Rose cut a glance to her closest friend, her eyes asking, are you okay?

“I’m fine.” Opal replied.  

The small town they were driving through was quaint and quiet. Over half of the downtown was empty, boarded up shops. Opal couldn’t help the wave of sadness that flowed over her from looking at them. How many of those stores were once someone’s dream?

“I don’t know where this memory came from, but do you remember Emma’s twenty-second birthday party?” Rosemary asked with a breath that sounded like a laugh.

“How could I forget? She was so embarrassed.” Opal said with a grin. “It’s what she deserved for not letting us plan her twenty-first birthday!”

Emma, Rosemary’s eldest daughter, planned a backyard tea-party for her twenty-second birthday. She had a gentle soul like her mother. She drank, but only in moderation, and only fancy cocktails like a cosmopolitan or an aperol spritz. So, it was to her utter horror when her godmother showed up to her snooze-fest with cases of beer and beer-bongs.

“We showed them how it’s done.” Rosemary said, matter-of-factly.

The next day was the home stretch. They passed trees and trees and small towns and farms. Lots of cows. As the day flew by, the towns started looking familiar. The sense of familiarity infected her like a vampire bite. They drove through the small city that housed the nearest mall, where they shopped for all their school clothes every year. They passed the stretch of forest that Opal knew a decent sized pond lay within, where they went skinny dipping when they were seventeen. They passed memory after memory, rooting themselves into Opal’s soul like the latch of a tick.

The sky above was gloomy. Not in an it’s-going-to-rain way, but in a clouds-blocking-the-sunset way. Opal thought it represented the end of their last trip in a melancholy light. She reached for Rosemary’s hand, which currently lay on the gear shift. She gave it a squeeze.

“I love you, Rose.” Opal said.

“I love you, Opal.” Rosemary said.

The car followed the familiar curve of highway that led into town. The women glanced to each-other. Piercing green eyes meeting warm honey hazel. They were so far from the coast by then, but Opal could’ve sworn a breeze of refreshing salty sea drifted by. Then the screeching started.

For a split-second time stopped. Opal and Rosemary locked eyes. Opal saw every moment of her life in a single flash. Then it went dark.

BREAKING NEWS: TRAGIC ACCIDENT

In the late hours of March 22, 2009, officers were dispatched to a tragic scene. A 2002 Ford Thunderbird was found crushed in the ditch along a well-known dangerous curve of highway that begins the entrance into town. Rosemary Jenkins and Opal Carter, 64-year-old lifelong friends, were the only ones in the car, and were reported deceased on impact. Witness reports say the convertible noticed the stopped car last second, causing the driver to swerve in attempt to avoid a collision.

Family members tell us Carter was recently diagnosed with a rare, terminal cancer, and the two women were on a life-celebrating road trip. “They were the most beautiful example of soulmates to see growing up. They had this ability to look at each other, and silently have a whole conversation. When they were apart, it was as if a part of them wasn’t fully in the moment. It feels morbidly right for them to end together.” Jenkins’s daughter, Amelia says. The women will be cremated and scattered into their favorite forest. “They played in those woods as girls together” Jenkins’s daughter, Emma says. “It feels the most right for them”.

[minorkart]

Cozy Comfort: Choosing the Perfect Cotton Blanket for Your Newborn Baby Boy

Welcoming a newborn baby boy into the world is a joyous occasion filled with anticipation and preparation. Among the essential items for the nursery, a cozy cotton blanket stands out as a must-have for providing warmth, security, and comfort to the newest member of the family.

When selecting a cotton blanket for your baby boy, several factors come into play, ensuring both practicality and style. Safety is paramount, with parents prioritizing blankets made from high-quality, hypoallergenic cotton fabric that is gentle on delicate newborn skin. Look for certifications such as Oeko-Tex Standard 100, which guarantees that the fabric is free from harmful substances, ensuring a safe environment for your little one.

Comfort is key for promoting restful sleep and soothing your baby boy. Cotton blankets are renowned for their softness and breathability, making them ideal for swaddling or layering over your baby during naps and bedtime. Opt for blankets with a lightweight construction that allows for optimal airflow, preventing overheating and reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Practicality meets style when considering the design of the cotton blanket. For a baby boy, explore a range of masculine colors such as shades of blue, green, gray, or earthy tones. Choose from an array of charming patterns, including classic stripes, playful prints featuring animals or vehicles, or timeless motifs like chevron or gingham. Personalization options such as monogramming or embroidery with your baby's name add a special touch to the blanket, making it a cherished keepsake for years to come.

Caring for your cotton blanket is essential to maintain its softness and integrity. Follow manufacturer's instructions for washing, typically machine washing with gentle detergent in cold water and tumble drying on low heat. Avoid using fabric softeners or harsh chemicals that may irritate your baby's delicate skin, ensuring that the blanket remains gentle and safe for regular use.

Investing in a high-quality cotton blanket for your newborn baby boy offers both practical benefits and aesthetic appeal to the nursery. Beyond providing warmth and comfort, it becomes a cherished accessory that accompanies your baby through his early stages of life. By prioritizing safety, comfort, and style, parents can confidently select the perfect cotton blanket, wrapping their baby boy in love and coziness from day one.

[chaosandorder46]

Knitting a baby blanket for a coworker... About 2/3 done. She wasn't very specific, but said her colors are pink and green. She wears fuschia all the time, so I thought this was acceptable. I made a very glaring error with the pattern on one of the increases, but I'm just going to say it adds character.

Pattern is here:

[maamsshopbaby]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: Baby throw blanket.

[bubblecg]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: Handmade Crochet Baby Boy Blue/White Chevron Blanket.

[chynnadoll26]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: *NWT* (12) Little Beginnings Plush Baby Blanket Pink Plush Fabric W/ Satin Trim.

[micro-expressions]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: West Elm White Fluffy Soft Chevron Pattern Fringe Tassel Boho Farmhouse Blanket.

[tj-crochets]

I realized y'all might not know how chaotic my creative process can be because you mostly only see the projects I finish, so in no particular order here are all the WIPs I currently have off the top of my head: (It got really long so I put it below a read more)

- the jelly roll rug, about half finished, currently coiled up under my sewing machine table - giant octopus, two pieces on the floor, the rest on the cutting mat - denim lumberjack quilt: backing and quilt top draped over a chair, waiting to be ironed - jellyroll patchwork quilt and quilt back: draped over quilt rack, waiting to be ironed - half assembled orange and pink nightmare of a triangle quilt: half the rows draped over that same quilt rack under the other quilt, stack of other triangles Somewhere In The Room - green triangles baby quilt: currently a stack of unsewn triangles, also Somewhere In The Room (I remember I left them on the triangle ruler but not where) - Bucky Bear: body, arms, and head darts sewn. arms on my desk, legs on my dresser, head pieces currently on the sewing machine table - green baby quilt I am very slowly handquilting: on the floor behind my air purifier - mars rover plushie: Somewhere In The Room, just needs wheels (I couldn't figure out how I wanted to do the wires to make the wheels turnable, it went in a box for safekeeping as I moved houses, and now that box is Somewhere) - green frog flannel baby blanket: fabric for the top is ironed and currently draped over the ironing board. I will have to play musical projects to finish the lumberjack quilt, or finish the baby blanket first? Not sure which way that's gonna go - cut and sew fleece dragon, all pieces cut out, somewhere in a small box I *think* on my shelves behind the minky-impersonator fabrics - pink furry blob monster, half sewn, sitting on my sewing machine table - progress pride quilt: waiting on the trans pride flag I want to make for the backing - at least three other finished quilt tops waiting to be quilted (floral chaos, floral chevron, and fall foliage) - purple knit beanie (about half done) in my desk drawer. Two or three more knit beanies just waiting on ends to be woven in (I donate them) - orange fleece beanie (sewed one dart the wrong way out, gotta seam rip it, redo it, and finish the beanie)

This is not counting projects I have not yet started but fully intend to make, like my MTH auction fills from last year or quilts I have fabric for

Crafting update: So far today I have cut out 2/8 pieces for the octopus, ironed 1/2 the fabric for a flannel baby blanket, and ironed all the fabric for the denim lumberjack quilt before realizing I was just re-wrinkling the backing fabric while I tried to iron it because it was Too Much Fabric at once, so I spread it out on the floor, cut it down much closer to size, and am going to re-iron it I am having some trouble focusing, can you tell? lol