and 99 Granny Squares to Crochet (Leisure Arts #3078)
. I have looked at the granny square book online and in person several times. It is always just off my top list of books to buy. However, with a limited selection at Michaels, I finally had a great excuse to buy it. I love the patterns and look forward to playing with them.
Simply Amigurumi was another book I had considered buying, but there were always other books ahead on my list. I love the food patterns in this book. I already have completed the hamburger and will be blogging about that this week. The animals are cute, but I would probably not have purchased it for the animals alone.
The unexpected benefit of buying this book was the directions. I have tried to master the magic circle for ages. I have looked at online videos, read several directions, and even had an instructor try to explain it at an amigurumi class I took at the local library. I would "sort" of get it, but not be able to replicate the circle again. When I saw the magic circle in this book, I figured I would substitute my alternate method for starting a circle. However as I looked at the pictures, something clicked and I decided to try it. I still cannot make one without looking at the picture. However, I am making Candy Corn Man from Crochet Village's Halloween Ghoulies using magic circles. I have to look at the book to do it, but eventually I think I will be able to memorize the process.
I still have a little money left on my card for some yarn or notions. Gift cards make for shopping fun.
. I wanted to make this one a bit different so I used 
. The cake would have been cute if we were having a big party, but then what does one do with a large cake after the party? Storage can be an issue. However, a candle is easier to put on a shelf and bring out on special occasions to celebrate. I am actually thinking of making some to send out for other birthdays this year in different color schemes.