Sandra Lee's guide to masochism

In case anyone is considering making the Grilled Jalapeño Poppers from Semi-Homemade Cooking with Sandra Lee, consider the warning an understatement. I have no skin sensitivities, and so did not wear the rubber gloves suggested for those who do, and I washed my hands plenty well, but still spent the next nine hours with my hands in a bowl of ice water. It is difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position which also enables you to keep your hands in a bowl full of water.

First completed crochet project - first blog entry

Although I have started two crochet projects which are still unfinished, yesterday I actually both started and finshed crocheting a baby hat for my friend Leta who's baby shower is this Friday. I happened upon the yarn, Bernat cotton tots in very berry, for only $1, so I figured I had better make the best of the good deal by completing my first crochet project and making a present for Leta, all for under $1, since I didn't use the whole skein. I started using a pattern from the internet, but it didn't work out since the person didn't tell what gauge, so here's what I made up instead. Gauge 3, hook size H. Ch 25, R1 DC in the fourth stitch from the hook and every stitch thereafter, ch3 turn, R2-R12 DC in every stitch, ch3 turn, SC the sides together - making the original chain the top of the hat and R12 the bottom - and continue by SCing the chain, which will be folded in half, together, turn hat inside out. That's it! You do end up with a rather large seam.