My first crochet project

I've tried knitting and found it wasn't for me.  I decided to try crocheting since I covet crocheted blankets and have no one to make one for me.  I got out the Crocheting for Dummies book from the library, it's really helpful with great images.  I used a small ball of yarn and a crochet hook that I picked up from a second store in town and I gave it a try.

I've been meaning to join a learn to crochet course, but it just hasn't worked with my schedule.  I'm sure I will eventually, in part to meet other crazy crafty people, but also to pursue my goals of blanket making.

Here is my first project.  I guess it could be a coaster.  Notice the random widths as I drop and add stitches.

I also put the final coat of paint on a little wooden shelf that I rescued from the side of the road.  I had to nail the one foot back on, but otherwise it is in great shape.  I took a can of brilliant white enamel paint back to the hardware store and the nice man there put a drop of black in and a drop of brown, so it is now a soft off-white.  I'm not sure what the ultimate destination or use of the shelf will be, but I might put a lamp on it in my living room.  This is the shelf pre-painting: