Free Resources

Knitted Preemie Hat Pattern

Supplies: 
2 pair of US Size #7  - 18 inch bamboo circular needles 
Soft cotton or acrylic 4 ply yarn
Tapestry needle
5 stitch markers optional
Directions:
Cast on 42 stitches on one of the circular needles.  From the opposite end where you can on, slip 21 of the stitches onto the second circular needle.  Join in the round, being careful not to twist stitches. Knit in the round until Preemie hat is 4 inches long. 
Decrease for crown of hat:
Row 1 -Add stitch markers every 7 stitches as you progress.
Row 2 - K5 K2Tog Slip Stitch marker. Repeat all the way around.
Row 3 - K4 K2tog. Slip Stitch marker. Repeat all the way around.
Row 4 - K3 K2tog. Slip Stitch marker. Repeat all the way around. 
Row 5 - K2 K2tog. Slip Stitch marker. Repeat all the way around.
 Row 6 - K1 K2tog. Slip Stitch marker. Repeat all the way around.
 Row 7 - K2tog. Remove  Stitch markers as you progress. Repeat all the way around.
Rows 8, 9 & 10 - Knit. 
Cut yarn leaving a 4 inch tail.  Using tapestry needle thread yarn tail though remaining 6 stitches and cinch together and insert yarn through the hat crown to the inside.  Knot the yard onto an inside stitch and weave  thread tail on the  inside of Preemie Hat.
Options:  Add stripes after 1 inch from beginning.
Variegated yarn creates natural "stripes".

Dirty Rice & Kielbasa Recipe 

Ingredients:
​1 pound link of kielbasa cut into 1/4 inch half moon slices
1 medium onion finely chopped
2 Cups rice
4 Cups water
1/4 teaspoon chopped garlic
1 teaspoon Salt & a dash of Pepper
4 ounces shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:
In a large flat saucepan, brown kielbasa half moon slices and finely chopped onion until blackened on Medium High heat. Stir continually keeping a close eye so it doesn't burn.  Add rice and continue to stir for one minute. Add water all at once and stir to deglaze the saucepan. Add salt, pepper and garlic. Turn heat to High and bring water to boil. Cover with lid. Turn heat off and allow to cook 15 minutes without removing the lid. Before serving, top with cheddar cheese and return the lid so the cheese can melt.  Enjoy!