MOCK crab

Back again with a little something different.
So that time of year is back, the one with the fat bloke in the red suit.  Along with that comes one of my favourite things. Comfort food!
I love it all. Ok most but that's not the point. Every year one thing we can count on seeing is nans Mock crab. Emphasis on the mock part as it is in fact 100% vegetarian friendly. Sorry vegans but that's life. After a little bugging I am proud to say nan has given permission to share the family recipe, lucky you lot.
I'm not entirely sure just how many generations have used this but I am certain at minimum it's seen it's way through 4 so it can't be too bad.
Wip up a batch give it a try.

NANS MAGIC MOCK CRAB
Here's what you'll need:
1 x 400g tin of tomatoes, chopped and mushed
4 oz cheddar cheese, grated
1 medium onion, mince/chopped
1 large egg
2 slices of white bread, crumbed
Salt & pepper
Small blob of butter

How to: cook onions, tomatoes and butter on hob until onions are tender. Mix cheese and bread together with the egg then add the onion and tomatoes and return to heat. Season to taste. Mix well and bring to the boil. Remove panfrom hob and let cool.
Done, da da
This recipe often finds itself filling voulevent cases, topping sandwiches and toast and sometimes when nans not looking eaten by the sneaky spoonful, but that's just between us right?
Anyway enjoy your new recipe.

Free pattern for lion coasters

Free pattern for lion coasters

Before I give this pattern out I have to do the rules of usage.

Here we go. This pattern is designed by me as a hobby and is to be used as a hobby. It is not to be used on mass. If you wish to sell your end product ask permission to do so. You do not need permission if 50% or more from profits is to be given to charity. This pattern can be used to make gifts. Do not make copies of this pattern. You may share it by the blog link it is not to be copied anywhere.

Ok boring bit done. 

Quick and simple lion coaster

Lion coaster

Use main lion colour for first 8 rows then switch to your colour of choice for the mane.

Chain 3

1. In 3 space from hook 7dc
2. 2dc in each space around
3. *2dc, 1dc* repeat to end of ring
4. *2dc in first space, 1dc in next 2 spaces * repeat to end
5. *2dc in first space, 1 dc in next 3 spaces* repeat to end
6. *2dc dc in first space, 1 dc in next 4 spaces* repeat to end
7. *2dc in first space, 1dc in next 5 spaces* repeat to end
8. *2dc  in first space,  1dc in next 6 spaces* repeat to end
9. Create 1 puff stitch in every other space to end slip stitch together and tie off

Weave ends in and stitch on a face.


Again I would love to see your results especially if you made any colour changes.

As easy as toast

It's been quiet around here for a little while now, it's not that this blog is boring me or anything. In fact quite the opposite it's actually something I'm really pleased I got going with.
 The reason it's been quiet is a tree. My family tree in fact.
Not much crochet has been happening and alot of what has is still a work in progress but last night I finished myself a teeny piece of toast.

I treat myself to a new winter coat and something about it has been bothering me, it felt a little plain.
Walking around town, hobbling actually but not the point, I noticed most people wearing the similar coats type had either a massive scarf (no way was I wearing that I get crazy warm as it is) or a brooch. With a scarf ruled out the only thing left was the brooch.
Problem is most brooch wearers were the older generation And nearly all brooches were poppies or flowers, fairies/angels.

I don't want something everyone has, that would be boring.
Now after deciding to keep my eye out for a cute pin or something fun I a had a slip of the tongue.
I don't know what I was describing but instead of your usual "its as easy as pie" I blurted out "its as easy as toast". Of course my funny little brain  lit up its light bulb and decided that was what was going to sit pretty on my coat.

Here he is!
  As usual his pattern is on ravelry at the usual price 50p

Super cute toast

To make it even easier, here, have a link. Don't say I never do anything for you.

View pattern now   link opens a new Web page.

As usual we would like to see your finished results I may even have a post dedicated to showing your versions, if you want to be shown leave how you want to be identified and your image in a link or use our email Littleboxofnothing@outlook.com

Bonfire nights and pets

Here's how I help my terrified dog through bonfire night 

Every year the neighbours go firework crazy for what feels like forever. Don't get me wrong I love watching the sparkles in the sky BUT it scares my dog so much that I hope people have to buy a licence to use fireworks or they become restricted to organised events only.

My first step is to put his jumper on. It's nothing fancy only a simple jumper I crocheted for him. Nothing fancy just a small rectangle large square and rib stitched neckline. It really helps because it feels like a reassurance to him.

Next step I drug him. Not anything serious its a simple (stinky ) liquid. I use dorwest valerian compound which basically makes him kind of stoned. Calms him down more, yay.

Final step is to make a den. Nothing crazy I set up a dog crate fill it with bedding and soft comfy bits. I top it off with a blanket over the top to make a dark space.

Super easy and effective. There is some other things you can do such as turn radio or TV up a little, cracking put the squeeze toys or ply your dog's with juicy bones or sweeties.

Remember fireworks must stop at 11pm or your breaking the law and at midnight on November 5th. Don't be that guy that goes all night!