Xuan, Quan, Tu?

After we vascilated to name JT Tuan or Tu, we decided Xuan, Quan, Tuan was too much and went for Tu. Last week, JT informed us he wanted 4 letters in his middle name like his brothers. Oh well.  

Infinity scarf longer than JT

Cousin Katie was surfing Pinterest and sent me a couple ideas. She asked me to make an infinity scarf that could wrap around 3 times. After getting to the 2nd row, my hook broke, so I pulled it apart and started over, using a bigger hook. The stitch didn't look the same as a picture we so I pulled it apart and tried a different stitch. It still didn't look right, so I pulled it apart again and used a larger hook...so, many tries later...Success! 

I used a N (8mm) hook instead of the J hook. 

Here's my first pattern write up...

Supplies:

5 Skeins of yarn (the one I used is pictured below, available at JoAnn's)

N Hook

3/4 in sheer organza ribbon, same length as finished scarf

Row 1: Chain on as many as you want...I didn't count, just wrapped it around my neck 3 times. It is about 8 feet. 

Rows 2-28 (or so): Turn, Single Crochet into 2nd stitch. Single crochet all the way across...turn and repeat. The width was about 8-9 inches. 

Bind off. 

Match ends. (You can twist scarf, but I didn't.) Use ribbon and lace ends together. Tie a bow with excess. 

Done!

Election Day

I vote today to honor my parents, who fled a country that suppressed their rights, who came to this country with only hope, for all the men and women who ensured our safety on that journey, and who continue to provide us with this opportunity. I may be one voice, but I live the American Dream everyday. Election Day is one of my favorites.

Patience and Pho

There are many things that you will strive to do faster. However, there are things that can't be rushed...Pho is one of them. No matter how much you want it, before the 4th hour of cooking, all you will have is beefy water. Time and consideration help deepen the broth. And all the time you took to make it is so worth it. We have been feeding you boys pho since you were babies. You all know the components, but it will take time for you to master it. And I can't wait for you to make your first vat. 

Playing with Fire

Dad watched this TED Talk titled "5 Dangerous Things You Should Let Your Child Do." The message was "The most effective way to keep children safe is o give them a little taste of danger." 

http://youtu.be/NXhddUqNNjo

So this weekend, we played with fire.