Sunflower Crossing

2012 First Completion

2012-02-05T19:24:00.000-08:00

I did it, here is my first finish of 2012. Not bad, got this pattern a few weeks ago and was able to fit it into my project rotations.

Sorry for the bad picture. We are busy watching the Super Bowl and I didn't want to miss out on the action.

Poor baby, I think Brinkley is ready for bed.

Goodnight everyone......

February Stitching

2012-02-05T14:52:00.000-08:00

There has been a lot of progress going on in my projects but I know that my blog has not represented it lately. Everytime I think I am going to sit down and post there isn't either enough time to take pictures, poor lightening, or I am just too tired to get the laptop or camera out. So, today I was on mission to iron my projects and take advantage of daylight for photos.

First: Inspired Needle in Lemont is working with a group of stitchers to offer a new small project each month of 2012. I didn't pick up the January project but did grab the opportunity to do the February project which is "Garden of Love" by Citrouille's Designs. I just love the fabric and threads that were put into this kit. The threads are what the pattern called for.

Second: Margaret Cottam by La D Da. I just love this design and currently working on Part 2. It took me a while to be excited by using only one thread on this design but the more I have done the greater it is looking.

Next up, I continue to work on the following designs from Blackbird Designs - Loose Feathers and With thy Needle & Thread - mystery sampler Birds of a Feather.

Lastly, I have done a bit of progress on Winter Floral Sampler from the designer Knotted Tree. I just love the colors and how they pop on this fabric.

At the end of 2011 I did finish a project but didn't get a picture taken of it. I am attending a class this Friday at Inspired Needle which we will put our finished projects onto a box as shown on the pattern by Blackbird. This design is called Morning Star. I love this.....

I hope to get a good scan of this pattern that I completed and add it to a necklace. Right now the printer and I are not playing well together. I will send DH to tackle it. Course, only after he finishes the wonderful roast he put in the oven today.

The last update that I have really been behind on is the ABC Stitching Gals project. There are three of us working on Prairie Schoolers ABCs and so far I am way, way, way behind on this project. I did work more the other day on the pumpkin but I think someone is taking out the stitches on me since I am not able to get to the end of this pumpkin. Here is my progress.... UGH......

Ellen has gotten a lot done on hers. She off onto her third letter. Here is her progress:

Keep up the good work Ellen. Cannot wait to see what you send to me next.

As soon as I finish up my February small Garden of Love I have two new projects to decide on. They are both for February but I think this will one will be my focus. It is With Thy Needle & Thread's -
Be My Valentine.

This was an easy decision since I get to eat the chocolates first. Yummmmmmm

Well, see, I have been doing a lot of stitching. Just a slow blogger. I haven't set any goals for 2012 like I failed at in 2011 but I have changed the way I sit down and stitch. Each time I sit down to stitch I pick up one of these projects and have made a habit of switching to a different one the next time. If I have a good week of stitching I should be able to touch each of them with at least an hour of stitching time.

As I was taking pictures of my projects my the living room window I happened to look outside and caught this picture. I am going to call it the "Lady in Pink". This girl was completely dressed in pink and was walking her standard size poodle. The poor poodle had its head dyed pink to match her coat. I wish I had a better camera that was able to get a closer shot. Enjoy....

That poor dog.... I wonder how long the pink dye lasts or if it will run in the rain.

Happy Holidays

2011-12-23T19:29:00.000-08:00

The tree is decorated, the cards have been mailed, the cookies are baked, and the gifts are wrapped. Wow, maybe I can finally sit and stitch again. Well, maybe not for a couple more days.

The only pictures I have to share with you at this time are my puppies enjoying the Christmas tree.

They both have seem interested in the tree and I know they are looking to see if there are any new toys under the tree for them.

Merry Christmas to you all.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-17T19:03:00.000-08:00

Time is moving quickly. We are sitting here tonight making our list for dinner on Thanksgiving. Wow, I cannot believe it is almost here. So, to all of my stitching buddies have a great Thanksgiving.

Here is the 10th of the month update for the ABC Prairie Schooler from Ellen. She has finished A, working on B and has started on C. Way to go....

As for the rest of us, well, I guess you will have to see what next month brings. I only added a few more stitches to mine so that really isn't worth a picture.

Last Sunday I got a chance to sit and stitch at Inspired Needle in Lemont. Not only did I sit and stitch but I did do a bit of shopping also. I purchased "Winter Floral Sampler" by Knotted Tree. I need to give this one a start right away.

The colors on this pattern are great. I cannot wait to work more on this.

Also, last Saturday/Sunday I got a lot done on Summer - Loose Feathers by Blackbird Design. Just in time since I picked up the next section Autumn.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving.

Friday Update

2011-11-04T17:15:00.000-07:00

Wow, a lot has been going on so to start off with I will show you my progress update on Carriage House Samplings "Fall's Gifts".

I just love this project. It was in my stash from a trip two years ago. We were traveling in KY and I found a shop listed on the Internet called The Needle Nest in Shelbyville. Well, we were just coming home on vacation Monday and we made a trip back over to Shelbyville so that I could visit the shop again. It is so much fun to travel the US and visit shops. On this stop I purchased an older design by Jeanette Douglas from her Stitches Series called Pineapple Stitches. I cannot wait to start this one once I have finished this lovely picture.

Another find on this trip was more flower frogs found in an amazing antique mall in Williamsburg, VA.

One has a fantastic silver bottom that the frog fits into. It has roses all around it. I found several others that I brought back as gifts for my stitching buddies. I hope they enjoy them. Sorry, didn't get a picture of them. I also found this lovely blue candy dish. It will look great with candy in it. Yummmy.....

Another stop on our trip was Virginia Beach. Why in October? I attended the Dyeing 2 Stitch cross stitch retreat. I was lucky to have classes with Shepherd's Bush and Shakespeare Peddler. It is always so much fun to meet the designers in person. Of course I came home with loads of projects to do from the retreat and their shop. Here is my basket that we got as a gift and all of my treasures. I have lots of stitching to do.

They made everyone the most fantastic scissor fob. Here is the one I got.

Time to return to my stitching. Enjoy your weekend.

Frog Find

2011-10-16T20:22:00.000-07:00

Happy Sunday....

This weekend I ventured into our local town to an antique mall on search for a flower frog. It took a bit of searching but I was very thrilled at the mission accomplished. Here is my lucky find.

On the stitching front I spent time this weekend working on Fall's Gift by Carriage House Samplings.

I love this design and wished I had more time to just sit stitch. After coming back from last weekend's fun retreat in Shipshewana I am having a hard time in getting back to my chores around the house. All I want to do is sit and stitch. Okay, I still sat and stitched and didn't get to all of the chores I needed to do this weekend but I did get out and ran a lot of errands that I never can find time to do during the weekend.

Well, Josie and Brinkley are telling me it is time for bed. Hope you found time to stitch and I will be checking your blogs to see what you did.

Weekend Retreat

2011-10-12T17:31:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I spent a wonderful weekend away in Shipshewana Indiana at a retreat by "Inspired Needle". It is a wonderful weekend of lots of stitching and shopping. The weather was great and the decorations around the hotel were amazing. Here are some gourds that were outside of the entrance.

If you want to see more pictures from the retreat take a look at Laura's blog:

http://maudeandmozart.blogspot.com/

She did a great job of walking around and capturing what everyone was working on. I was late getting to the retreat on Friday and missed out on the ornament exchange. No problem. I loved what I made and now this is mine......

We got time on Saturday to do a bit of shopping around town. I happened to be in a home store and ran across an item that I thought would make a great holder for my stitching patterns and look nice sitting on my end table. I think it is a recipe or photo holder.

Here is what it looks like holding my pattern.

On Friday night I worked on Prairie Moon Pattern that I have been progressing on. Well, now I am busy removing all of the stitches I put in last week while watching Grey's Anatomy. UGH.....

I did start a new project over the weekend. I am glad I purchased a new light that was stronger than the one I took. This is Fall's Gifts by Carriage House Samplings. I bought it several years ago while on vacation visitning local cross stitch stores. Look up this pattern, it is amazing.

I bought a really pretty magnet from Puffin & Company. I had to use it now for October. Isn't this cute.

We got to work on a really neat pin cushion from "Just Another Button Company". The best part was we got the ice cream to eat first. Yummy

Since I got home the only project that I have had a chance to work on is Mardi Gras by Laura Perin. I just love working on this one.

Finally, here is the progress update for the "ABC Girl Club". First up is Ellen:

She has gotten her first letter block done. Congrats Ellen.... You are doing Great....

Well, as for Terry or myself we have more work to do to finish up a letter. My pumpkin has not changed since last week and I know Terry is still trying to work on hers. Hopefully we will have better progress updates next month and get a chance to head off Ellen.

Happy Stitching New Blog Buddies.....

There is Fall in The Air

2011-10-06T20:06:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful time to sit and stitch. Happy Fall!!!! I just wished I had more hours each day in which to get my projects done. I love the fall time and the projects I have lined up. Here is my progress on Prairie Moon project.

If you are working on this project or getting ready to start it I have found a few items that are in the photo and not correctly graphed. So, watch picture of the design closely against the pattern.

Also, I just couldn't wait to start a new Laura Perin design. This is called Mardi Gras. I love the design, colors, and challenges.

This photo doesn't really capture the color of this project. Here is the full design photo from the pattern.

To keep up with all of the projects I have going on I pickup a different one each time I sit down to stitch. That way I feel like I am starting or progressing on an exciting design. When I keep working on the same project every time I get that burned out feeling because I am not seeing my progress as I should.

Here is my progress on the newest Loose Feathers from Blackbird Designs. I cannot wait to see the next part to this project.

Hey ABC Prairie Schooler Stitchy Gals, it is time for you to send me your progress updates. Send it to me over the weekend and I will get it posted next week unless either one of you are ready yet to start your own BLOGS.....

I find myself getting up on Sundays and spending the morning hours working on this. Doing over one requires me to have eyes that are fully rested. By time I get done working on this my eyes always need rest.

Yesterday I go the recent copy of "Just Cross Stitch" for Nov/Dec 2011. I just fell in love with this project and have added it to my list of "Got to do in 2011". I love the cardinals in the photo and the colors being used are just amazing. This is called Red Birds by Marie Barber. This design reminds me of an old fashion post card.

Sorry for the bad picture. Kind of hard to hold the magazine and camera at the same time.

Well, I am going to sign off with a picture of a secret I have been working on. This package contains an ornament that I recently completed for a swap. Once this has taken place I will let you see my handy work. I am so excited with this. Not only did I create on this project but I finished it also. That doesn't happen to often around here but with all the recent tutorials being posted I found the instructions on how to do it. It came out great. Trust me....

Enjoy your weekend and happy stitching.....

We Remember

2011-09-11T11:05:00.000-07:00

Here is our downtown just now preparing for a memorial of Sept 11th. This is a day that will live with all of us forever.

The flag is being held up by our ladder firetrucks across the square downtown as the prepare to have the memorial.

This weekend I got together with my friends to start the Prairie Schooler "ABC Girl Club". We are all working on different letters from the Prairie Schooler Letter Charts. We have decided that since we cannot get together to stitch that we will report in on the 10th of each month with our progress. Hopefully this will help us all drive towards achieving this project as timely as possible.

First up is Ellen, she got a head start on us. She is working on Letter A and is doing her letters vertically.

25 count Lugana - Bone

Working Vertically

Next up is Terry, she is starting at the bottom with Letter Z. Here is her progress from last night.

28 Count Lugana - Potato

Working Horizontally

And lastly here is my progress. I basted my material so I can jump around. Since Halloween is my favorite I selected J for Jack-O-Lantern.

25 Count Lugana - Potato
Working Horizontally

Today the weather is perfect for relaxing and stitching the day away. Hopefully my eyes will hold out. I have so many projects underway that I just don't know where to start.

Enjoy your day as you think about Sept 11th..... God Bless America.......

First Finish - LJP Design

2011-09-06T18:48:00.000-07:00

Hurray, I finally finished my first Laura J Perin Design. It is called Sunflower Star. When I selected and started this one a long time ago I selected colors to match the sunflower design in my kitchen. This is so funny. I finally get this done and guess what, we are in the process of painting and changing the kitchen. It will no longer be sunflowers. Oh well, I still love this design and will find another place for it in my home. As to how to finish it is still a mystery. I truly enjoy Laura's designs and have a couple others to do. I have been good, I haven't purchased any new ones until I finish the two I have kitted and ready to go.

Here is my finish..... Whooo Hooo!!!!!

I am still working on my halloween cross stitch project by Prairie Moon. My progress is going slow on it but what else it new. This truly is the time of year that I love to sit and stitch all day. That means nothing else gets done around the house. In fact, the dogs continue to watch me and hope that I will stop at anytime and play with them. Don't worry, they still get lots of attention.

I leave you to continue my stitchy fun....

Halloween Feeling and Giveaway

2011-08-24T14:58:00.000-07:00

Isn't it amazing all of the new Halloween patterns that are coming out and what fun it is to see everyone busy working on them. I found the following Giveaway that you just have to go over and look at:

http://countrycreationsbydenise.blogspot.com/

This is so adorable. It will be given away on Sept 1st. Good luck everyone but I hope I win it.

I spent some time working on Prairie Moon halloween pattern. I noticed an error in the pattern and by following the picture I put the missing items in. I hope they look okay. It is around the skull head. The line above it was not on the pattern or the crosses.

I cannot wait to stitch the new Blackbird Design Halloween Eve. I think this one will be close to the size of the one I did of theirs a few years ago.

Good luck on your projects.

Picture Stitched

2011-08-09T18:56:00.000-07:00

If you saw my last blog you saw that my SIL stitched up a picture of our church window for my mother. Well, she surprised me last week with a stitched picture of my puppies. What a treat. Take a look:

She used a software from a website www.myphotostitch.com. This is amazing. It is a perfect picture of Josie and Brinkley. I love it. And again, this one is also done on 14 count vinyl and done in one week. All I can say is she is very talented and amazing. THANK YOU SIS.....

Here is my progress on the latest Loose Feathers. Heads up there is a mistake that was found in the pattern and you can get this information from Blackbird's blog on my blog list.

This is a short blog so I can get some stitching time in before bedtime.

Latest Stitching Progress

2011-07-27T18:05:00.000-07:00

When it is so hot outside there is nothing better than curling up on the sofa in a cool house stitching. I have finally found some time in the past couple of evenings to pickup my sewing. Course, I had to make a few trips to the LNS to get some new projects to work on even though I still have tons in my stash to get accomplished. Added to my started projects are:

The latest Loose Feathers - Summer from Blackbird Designs.

I started this Sunday evening. I think this is going to be a lot fun since the next two releases of the series will be added onto this piece of fabric. Cool idea.

Next up is Thine is the Trick and the Treat by Prairie Moon.

I love this fabric which is called "Relic". I am using something new for me from ThreadWorx. The color is an overdyed Black. It looks great. This is how much I got done on Saturday after getting home from the LNS with my new purchase.

The prior weekend I spent time with my friends at a stitching retreat. JBW and Lizzie Kate were the teachers. What a great time. I did get the project done from JBW. It is a really neat needle case that is very easy to stitch up and is in a completed needle roll. What a great idea for those that are not as handy doing finishing. That's me!!!!!

It is always so much fun to spend stitchy time with the girls. I just wished we had more stitching events to go to that are close to home like this one was.

The last item I cannot wait to share with you is a special project that my SIL completed for my mother. The picture used for this project was the stain glass window at our church. She took a photo of it and sent it away to be charted. What else is really neat is this was done on 14 count vinyl. AMAZING.....

The detail on this is perfect. She had to add in a lot of outlining to accent each piece of glass that is in this window. I never thought this could be done on 14 count. I am so used to linen that I couldn't imagine doing this on anything else to get the effect of the window that she did.

Hope you are all staying cool in the awful heat. You know it is bad when you cannot get your dogs to outside. They are totally happy staying in front of the vent letting the cool air blow over their fur.

Royal Wedding Giveaway

2011-04-30T20:28:00.000-07:00

Go over to "Chris Cross Corner" for this lovely giveaway.

What a lovely tribute to the wonderful wedding yesterday. I still am watching all of the shows repeating the events.

Here is Chris Cross Corner blog : http://xxstitcherxx.blogspot.com/

Royal Wedding Watch is Closer....

2011-04-28T15:56:00.000-07:00

I guess tomorrow will be a very long day since to watch the Royal wedding will require getting up at 3am. Hope you enjoy the wedding as much as we will.

Here is my progress on Sunflower Star by Laura Perin. I just love this design so much. After I get this one done I have couple others in my stash that I cannot wait to start.

And lastly here is my very slow progress on "Soar Sampler". I have to say that working with a very dark fabric is a challenge. It is taking a bit longer to progress but with all the rain we are having I think there will be more stitching time in my future this weekend.

The other item that is also slowing me down this week is that a book I have been waiting for from the library came in. It is called the "The Paris Wife". Since I only have 14 days to read it in on my Nook I have to get it done. There are several people behind me that have it on hold which means I cannot renew it if I don't get it done. So, now you can see why my stitching is a bit behind this week.

Enjoy the wedding and the weekend.

Happy Easter

2011-04-22T06:27:00.000-07:00

Winner

2011-04-19T18:21:00.000-07:00

Wow, after all the times that I have entered blog giveaways I have finally won one. Just Another Button Company had a wonderful giveaway on their blog on the 15th. Here is my winning:

What a wonderful end to a really bad day. Thank you Just Another Button Compay.......

http://justanotherbuttoncompany.blogspot.com/

Soar Sampler

2011-04-17T19:31:00.000-07:00

This weekend I started a SAL with Brenda Gervais of With Thy Needle & Thread. Here is my progress today on this sampler called "Soar".

This project was started due to the recent birth of three baby eagles in Iowa. Here is link to the blog to see the camera feed.

http://blog.syracuse.com/outdoors/2011/04/see_the_first_baby_eagle_hatch.html

Brenda sold this design to raise money for the Rapture Resource Project. Follow her blog weekly to see the progress we are all making on this project. There is a link to her blog at the bottom of my blog links.

Enjoy and come back to see my updated progress. I can promise you it won't be very fast since stitching on dark fabric is a challenge.

Slow Progress

2011-04-11T17:58:00.000-07:00

It is always amazing to look at all the stitching blogs and see how fast you all stitch. Well, if you are waiting and looking at mine you can take a nice long catnap. Sometimes it is so hard to find the time to sit down and stitch. We have been busy with the day to day activities of life and by time I find a few minutes to sit down and stitch it is around bedtime. Course, my favorite time to stitch is early on Sunday morning during all of the wonderful cooking shows. I won't even mention how bad I am at updating my blog. I think you know if I update it at least once a month I am doing good.

Here is my current progress on the three projects that I have going on:

Flag Day by With Thy Needle

Winter Wonderland by Blackbird Designs

Sunflower Star by Laura Perin

It is funny to look at the first one - Flag Day and imagine it would look better if I got her head done. This one is going slow for me since I am using a frame to stitch on. I am use to stitching without one so that I can sew instead of stab. This one is going to look really nice once I get it done.

Recently DH and I spent a weekend in Kohler, Wisc at The American Club. Kohler has a really neat design center of all their fixtures, sinks, tubs, and toilets. What is really special is that hotel also has some of the really neat products in the rooms. Our room had the most beautiful sinks. Isn't this the neatest!!!

We had a wonderful time and used this weekend to celebrate the event of getting engaged 20 years ago. The hotel was so sweet and made us a treat with our dinner to celebrate.

We will have to go back in two years when we are ready to celebrate our 20th Wedding Anniversary. I hope they don't remember us so we can do this treat again.

Okay, need to hit some stitching time before bedtime and make better progress of my 2011 project list. Have a good weekend and enjoy your stitching time.

What Did You Work On This Weekend?????

2011-03-06T17:30:00.000-08:00

I had a great weekend of working on projects. So, what did I do?

Friday I spent time working on a UFO project that I put into my bag of 15 projects for 2011. I am working on Winter Wonderland by Blackbird Designs.

I have finished one old project from the bag which is another Loose Feather's design from Blackbird Designs but I haven't taken a picture of it yet. It was my first finish for 2011 in January but being that I am a very slow blogger it has been updated to my blog yet. Need to capture a good shot of it and update my accomplishments for 2011.

On Saturday I went with my BFF to a class that we are taking of a design by Crabapple Hill Designs called Over the River and Through the Woods. We are quilting squares and painting. On Saturday we learned how to use fabric markers to highlight the coloring with crayons that we did. Here is a small example of what I worked on. The tree on the left has both crayon and fabric marker on it. The tree on the right is only with crayon. This is lots of fun but very time consuming.

On Sunday I was looking around at blogs and saw a few neat designs of needlework that made me go looking for a project that I started years ago and have left in a box wasting away. It is a design by Laura Perin called Sunflower Star. I have a lot of it done and it is terrible that I have never picked it back up to finish. Well, now is the time.

Recently I had the chance to go to the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston to see the Colonial Embroidery display. I feel in love with all of the samplers on display. Here is done by a Prudence Clark that she did in 1757 when see was 11 years old. This is so amazing.

We had such a wonderful weekend. Here is a shot of the park next to our hotel. It looked so pretty.

Course, it was the weekend before Valentine's Day and this really added to the beauty of the weekend.

We have had so much snow around here that I think we are really ready for SPRING. Course, I think Brinkley is becoming a huge snow lover.

Well, I am leaving this blog to spend more time stitching and watching my favorite show "The Amazing Race". Go Cowboys.....

Finish to 2010

2010-12-31T10:33:00.000-08:00

It is so hard to believe that Christmas has come to an end and we will be starting a new year. I wanted to make sure that I did one final posting for 2010 of a finish so I worked at completing Christmas Eve by Prairie Schooler. I am very excited with the finish and debating on whether to put this into a box top or just to frame it.

Also, I have not been good on providing any updates on A to Z Snowmen project. We did have our last class at the beginning of the month but due to the holidays and other issues the project got set aside. Before putting it down I did complete Q.

I am planning on working hard to get it completed before February so that I can take a hand quilting class and learn how to finish this project by hand. I think this will be a good finish for this project.

There have been several postings on many different blogs about the 2011 January Challenge. I did think about it and did put together two stitching bags. One contains 15 new kitted projects and the other contains 15 UFOs that are anywhere from 5% complete up to 85% complete. I know that tomorrow I will pull out a new project and start it since that is suppose to be the tradition. After that I am trying to figure out if I switch between the two bags and see if that will work in helping me to complete more projects for 2011. Someone stated on their blog that they completed 58 projects in 2010. WOW, how is that possible. Looking at what I did for 2010 I look like a beginner. Completing three projects and working on the A to Z quilt sounds awful. So, my goal for 2011 is to hit at least 15 projects as the challenge states. This is a huge step for me and will require resourceful use of my free time in doing this. Free time, well that is the other problem. I think I dream more of stitching than I actually do since during my sleep is about all of the free time I have.

We hope your holiday was wonderful and I will leave you with a picture of two doggies that Santa spoiled this year. They had so much fun on Christmas Eve that they fell asleep under the tree even though gifts were still being exchanged and Christmas music was filling the air.

Happy New Year and I am very excited to see what new designs and projects come our way in 2011.

November Snowman Progress

2010-11-20T10:39:00.000-08:00

Wow, almost forgot to stop all of my stitching progress and update my blog for the past several weeks. I have been so busy concentrating on getting A to Zzzz Snowmen done that I forgot to let you in on my progress. Next month is our last class and we will be getting the last two letters. I am anxious to find out more about finishing this into a quilt for next year's Christmas decorations. We did discuss a bit about doing some hand quilting and since this is not my area of expertise I think I will give it a try. We did get the material for the inner border and it is amazing. It is candy canes.

Instead of showing each of the following letters that I have finished I have put them into a grouping so that it will be easier for me to post.

I forced myself to go back to the letter E and F and finish up the fly stitch that I really didn't feel good at doing. After getting it done I am a bit happier. The letter M for Mittens is done except for the fly stitch so I need to pull it back out and get it done also. This project has been so much fun that I have signed up for another one next year at the same shop. This time we are going to color the designs instead of stitch them. So, stay tuned to hear about my ability to color.

A couple of weekends ago I did set aside a fun weekend just devoted to cross stitch. I pulled out Christmas Eve that I had recently gotten the material and threads for from Shepherd Bush. They had a picture on their blog of a conversion of the material and threads that I just loved. I am almost done with it and hope to finish it up on "BLACK FRIDAY" evening. I figured this would be a good treat for relaxing after a busy Thanksgiving week. Here is what I have done so far.

I was waiting for a good bright day to take a picture of my "Skeleton Crew" that I had done by Jill Rensel in Utah. Today seemed like a good day but it looks like my shot is a bit blurry. Sorry, but I think you can still see how wonderful this project looks with the great matting, cutouts, and frame. It will be sad to put this away until next year.

I wish you and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving. May your travels and time together be a safe and happy time.

Another Snowman Weekend

2010-10-11T18:28:00.000-07:00

Before I show you my recent project completions I have to say that my picture quality tonight is really bad and I am way too tired to redo them. Sorry......

I have to thank the ladies at Michael's for their help in framing my picture "Cloths Make the Man". I just love it and cannot wait to set it out for the holidays. This picture doesn't show you the wonderful colors of the mats and the beautiful frame. It is amazing.

The frame is silver but has a few color tones in it that helps to pickup all of the each of the lovely snowmen. I put little black buttons on each of the snowmen which really makes their outfits pop. Not sure which one is my favorite but I have to say that the Captain has really grabbed my attention.

I did have some success on my Redwork project. Here is J, N, and an update on C that was missing a candy cane.

Tonight I started working my Halloween decorations. I have only gotten a few items up but I wanted to share them with you. Again, these are very dark but I have to admit it looks great in the family room.

I am so excited to have finished a couple of Blackbird designs for fall. I have to work on getting more done for Christmas.

Well, the doggies are wanting some playtime before we all go to sleep. Have a great evening and enjoy your stitching time.

Redwork Update

2010-10-03T15:43:00.000-07:00

Finally sat down and worked hard to finish another letter on my A-Z Snowmen project. Here is "I". I just love the way he turned out.

This project has to go into high speed since it is getting ready to end and I am so far behind. If only I could stitch a letter a day I would be all caught up.

Well, outside of being behind on the snowmen I did enjoy time in Park City, Utah attending Shepherd's Bush retreat. I took classes from Shepherd's Bush, R&R Reproductions, and Thread Gatherer. Also at this retreat was Blackbird Designs, Charland, and Jeanette Douglas. If you ever get a chance to attend this retreat please do. It is a great way to meet designers and hear more about the work they do.

Prior to the retreat on Thursday we made our way into Ogden and stopped at the studio of Jill Rensel. This is were I dropped off my picture of the "Skeleton Crew" for framing. Jill had one on display that she just framed and it was amazing. As soon as I get the picture of my friend's camera I will post it on this blog. I cannot wait for mine to come back. I did see other projects framed and I have to admit that I have more to get done and take back for framing in 2012.

Here are the pictures of the projects.

This first one is the class project from Shepherd's Bush. I just love this one.

The second class of the retreat was a project bag to stitch from R&R Reproduction. This is my friend Ellen holding it up and also very excited to stitch hers. Too bad you cannot see her smiling face.

Our last class was with Thread Gatherer and what a neat project. It is a scrapbook with fabric and includes a bit of cross stitch and lots of dyed threads. My mind is racing with ideas on how to put the pages inside of this book together. We got the supplies to do this front and back pages.

I know if you search around many a few other blogs you will find some really great pictures of the other projects from the retreat. So much to do and so little time to fit it all in

We had a wonderful trip and got to see some really spectacular sites. We spent an afternoon on Antelope Island and got these great shots of bison and antelopes.

Well, letter J is calling my name and this is a really good night to sit and stitch.

Snowmen

2010-09-20T19:20:00.000-07:00

The weekend is over and I did finish a project that involves snowmen but just not my redwork project A-Z Snowmen. Here is what I did finish.

I spent time over the weekend going through a few bags that contained UFO's. When I ran across this one that was short one snowman at the end I figured it was possible to finish this up in time to drop off at Michael's to be framed at 60% off. Thanks to Connie at The Spinster Stitcher I found the sale. So, off today I went to Michael's with The Cross-Eyed Cricket's "A Well-Dressed Man". I started this picture several years ago during time off for surgery. Once I went back to all of my regular activities which included night classes this project went back into a bag and got lost in the bin of UFO's. So, another weekend gone and many more lost hours on my redwork project. So, cross your fingers that I get some time and attention back to it.

With the fall weather approaching so quickly and nights getting darker earlier all I can think about is sitting and stitching. Hope all of your projects are going well.

Thanks for the comments on my last posting. I know that I have been a bad blogger but I am working on becoming a better blogger and faster stitcher.

Finished Picture

2010-09-16T16:59:00.000-07:00

Happy Dance.... Here it is. I am so excited to have this done. I really loved the way it turned out. I did the skeletons in glow in the dark threads. The thread is awful to work with but it is really neat to see the skeletons glowing at night.

I found my Prairie Schooler project "Christmas Eve" that I had on my WIP listing. So, here is my next UFO to complete. I figured it was better to get a Christmas picture done at this time since it will probably take me into November to finish this. Yes, that is right, why? I have the Redwork A - Z Snowman project to complete also and it is going to get my full attention this weekend. I hope to get letters I and J done this weekend and give you a progress update on Monday. So, hold me to it. Your comments and support will help me reach this. So leave me a COMMENT.... I know you are reading my blog since I can see the number increasing on visitors....

Well, the dogs are fighting over their food bowls tonight and I have to go and put an end to it. Silly dogs, they both have the exact food in the bowls. Why can't they get along and just eat their food like good little Shelties..... Wow, the fight just hit a high, had to run and put an end to it. Off to bed early someone goes and it won't be me. I want to watch TV and stitch for fun.

Hurry weekend, I need more stitching time.....

America's Got a Finish

2010-09-15T20:16:00.000-07:00

Well, it is late at night and very dark outside but my happiness is creating sunshine in the room. Yep, with six days left to go I have finished "Skeleton Crew". It took me just under 8 weeks to stitch this project. What a joy to have it done and on time for framing. But, since it needs to be pressed and it is too dark for a good photo you will have to wait one more day for me to post a picture of my finished project. But, I had to let you know it is done......

Now, I really need to head back to my redwork project and pull out other projects that are in progress.

Come back tomorrow for the picture of the finished project.

Goodnight to you all and happy stitching......

Happy Labor Day

2010-09-06T19:56:00.000-07:00

Isn't it great to have an extended weekend. We need more of them. Course, that would mean I would spend more time wasting a day away stitching. Okay, it really isn't wasting the day when progress is made on such a special piece (Skeleton Crew). I am truly enjoying this one which means I have started thinking about what to start next.

I need get a couple of new patterns this last week and until I decided which will be the next project I will keep it a secret for now.

More work is also needed on the redwork project. Not much to really capture yet but as soon as the Skeleton Crew is done I really have to get some serious stitching done on it. The teacher mentioned at the last class that we should be getting ready to finish up and start working on putting it together into a holiday quilt. I am not a quilter but really looking forward to getting this one done with their help.

Well, time to call it a night. Hope your weekend was as enjoyable in stitching as mine.

Project and Blog Jail

2010-08-30T16:08:00.000-07:00

Well, summer is over and I haven't done enough to brag on my blog about what I did on my summer projects. Right now I am working fast and hard on "Skeleton Crew" by The Cross-Eyed Cricket collection. My goal is to have this done by Sept 22 or 23rd so that I can drop it off at a really special place for very special framing. Stay tuned and I promise to keep you posted with the outcome. I hope this is better than the other items I am working on.

As for my redwork project. Well, can I say that I am not the only student that is behind. I'm not. I promise.... I do have a couple other letters done except for one silly stitch that I cannot seem to get a handle on yet. Or at least good enough to post. That is the fly stitch. I need to practice this one since all the blocks are sewn together and then the seam is covered up with the fly stitch. As soon as the Skeleton Crew is done my attention is to finish this project in time with the class.

Well, I have been a bad blogger but I have a good excuse. I have been busy spending lots of family time with my family. We have done many cookouts, movies, and lots of other fun things this summer. Now that fall is setting in and everyone has gone home it will be back to serious tasks of stitching tons.

This one is a quick post. Time to run and have dinner. After dinner it will be stitching time. Enjoy....

Redwork Continues

2010-03-21T15:38:00.000-07:00

Well, my goal of being caught up before the next class is coming closer to a reality. The following two letters C & D are done. Okay, well if you look closely at C you will notice that there still is one more candy cane to do. Well, the kit from class was missing this thread and I haven't gotten a chance to run out and buy one sooner. But at least I am happy to be starting E & F tonight as I sit down to watch my favorite Sunday shows.

Hope your weekend was good. I had a major tragedy this weekend. I thought I would start my spring cleaning and put my comforter into the washing machine and dryer to freshen it up. Well, the first step went okay but the second step was not as successful. Since it was taking a long time to dry I kept pulling it out and turning it around in the dryer trying to get it dry. Well, after several attempts it was dry. Well, not good. Found out that I dried it a bit too much and dryer was hotter than it needed to be. Have you ever smelled scorched material. Yep, got a couple of spots that got it. It was time for a new bedset but I know this will not be an easy task to find a replacement. Starting looking online last night and nothing knocked my socks off. Shopping here I come. UGH!!!!!

Redwork

2010-03-12T19:03:00.000-08:00

Have you ever done redwork? I am hooked on the new techniques being used with the old form of redwork. But, I haven't ventured yet into much of it. My local quilt shop is offering a monthly project on Crabapple Hill's design "A to Zzz Snowmen. Course, just like my blog and cross stitching I am already a bit behind. I promised myself that I would stay on course with this monthly project but have already fallen behind. But, there is still time this month to stitch fast and catch up.

Here is part of the "A" for Angels:

Here is the "B" for bells:

This weekend I should have "C" for candy canes done and then it is off to "D" for Drummer. There is still hope before the next class that I will even get E/F done. Thankfully, they are grouped together.

The other day I had to make a trip out to my LNS to see what they brought back from Nashville Market. All I can say is I wish I could live 200 years to be able to stitch up all of the neat designs. It was hard to make a selection. Course, I had to pick up a Shepherd's Bush kit called "Lucky". I did spend some time last weekend stitching this up and have just a few items left to complete it and hopefully I can also finish it myself. Maybe this weekend along with my redwork.

Looks like I am having a bit of camera issues so I need to see what setting is off as to why I cannot get a good focus on the projects. I think it is mostly due to my ever increasing fat fingers.

I am looking for help on my blog. Does anyone know how to load in pictures to the spot where you want to place them? Every time I down load pictures I have to drag and drop them into my text. Tonight's try was not easy and there has to be a better way.

Well, time to get my redwork going before I fall asleep. Have a great weekend and thanks for coming back to see if I would ever get my blog going for 2010.

Last Finish for 2009

2009-12-27T11:17:00.000-08:00

It is so exciting to end the year on a finish. This was a design that I picked up in October on vacation from a really neat shop in Shelbyville, KY called "The Needlenest" (www.needlenestky.com). The owner was so excited to show me all the stuff that she had brought back from market. Feeling her excited caused me to fill up my baskets with goodies. This is "Miss Snow Fairy" by With thy Needle & Thread.

I knew that I wanted to have this project done for Christmas but time ran out and with the wonderful snow day we had yesterday I was able to finish this and say that I got it done for the holiday. Okay, so what if I missed Christmas by a day and it isn't framed yet. It will be ready for next year. So just imagine this one in a really pretty frame. I am......

Even though the holidays are over I still have a couple more Christmas projects that I really want to stitch and complete. For this evening I am going to start "Christmas Eve" by Prairie Schooler. Take a look at Shepherd's Bush blog to see how they stitched it. When I saw their photo I had to make the call and get the materials and directions for their changes. It is so pretty that I have to do this one and right away.

In the next several weeks I think I will review my stash and come up with a stitching plan for 2010. I have several large projects and many smaller ones that if I schedule my timing correctly I should be able to accomplish more than I have done in the past. Hey, with a good scheduled plan, plenty of stitching time, and all the necessary supplies on hand I should be able to make a dent in my stash so that I can think about adding in future designs. I have to support my favorite shops and designers, RIGHT????

Well, hope you all have had a wonderful holiday and wishing you a Happy 2010.

Finish

2009-12-07T18:33:00.000-08:00

Don't you just love Blackbird Designs!!! I do and I am so excited to have this one finished. I have to admit that the day I picked up this pattern "Midnight Watch" and material I ran home quickly to start it. It took me about 5 weeks to finish this one but you have to keep in mind that between day to day activities kept me from finishing this one quicker. For me this is still record time. There is a lot of stitching to this one. Also, if you pick up this pattern beware, you will need extra skeins of blackbird. I purchased three skeins and it took at least 2 1/2.

After finishing this up I did head on to a Christmas picture. This is "Miss Snow Fairy" by With thy Needle & Thread. The fabric looks so old fashion and the DMC threads are looking really good against it. I would have never been able to make this selection on my own. I hope to finish this one quickly and maybe even frame it myself. With all the tips I have seen on different blogs my mind is racing with ideas. I love blog reading.

Hmmm, the dogs have left the room and are way too quiet. Time to see what they have gotten into. Good night dear friends and happy stitching.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T15:55:00.000-08:00

Josie and Brinkley wanted to wish all of the fellow stitchers a Happy Thanksgiving....

I have been working on Blackbird Design's "Midnight Watch" and should have it finished this weekend. I am waiting on having it finished before I take a picture. So hopefully, this weekend will be it. I am anxious to pickup a new project and hopefully it will be a "Christmas" picture.

Happy Birthday Mom

2009-09-30T19:07:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was my Mom's birthday and I really wanted to give her something very special. I stitched up La D Da's pattern that has the verse of "I Love You a Bushel and Peck" which was a song that my mom sang to me when I was a baby. I think I really surprised her.

The finisher did the most amazing job of quilting this into a pillow. Attached are some antique buttons which really helped to make this even more special. Thank you Debra...

I cannot wait to head out this weekend to my LNS. I have more finishing to pick up. It feels like Christmas trying to wait until Saturday to drive out and see everything finished. Plus, it will be even more fun to see what new items they have in from market. Charge.....

Still Kicking

2009-09-22T19:13:00.000-07:00

Don't you just hate those bloggers that disappear for weeks and weeks and weeks. Me too!!!Sorry.... So, what have I been up to you ask!!!!

Well, first, I had my nose in a book and just in case you didn't know, I am a very slow reader. I think I can stitch faster than I read a book. If you are dog lover you really need to read this book. It is by Garth Stein....

Course, it didn't take me four weeks to read this book. I spent a lot of time setting it down in between..... Going to Jackson Hole, WY in search of a moose.... I have always wanted to see a moose and now I can finally say I saw 7 of them all on the same trip.

It was a great trip. Started out in Jackson, Wy - moving on to the Grand Tetons - over to Yellowstone and then up to Glacier Park. Guess how many days....???? Give up...???? Try 3 days and 1480 miles later. Okay, it was the fastest trip ever but at least I got to spend the last three days relaxing in Jackson Hole looking for moose.

I really don't have much to show you on my stitching progress. I spent the most awful time FROGGING on my current project. Until I get over the FROGGING I just cannot get myself to take a photo of the progress. I am working on Lizzie Kate's "Living with Charm". Well, I don't feel too charming about it. Maybe I will get better at watching the pattern closer this weekend and will give you an update next week.

I am leaving you with a great picture taken at a farmer's market in Missoula MT. I wish I could have found a way to bring all of these flowers home with me besides the wonderful veggies.

Blog Giveaway

2009-08-21T13:40:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone, take a minute and look at Vonna's blog - The Twisted Stitcher (link provided on the side under listing of blogs I read) and leave a comment to enter her anniversary giveaway. This is so amazing and sweet idea. Good luck to you all. Course, I hope to be the big winner.

My Land - Shepherd Bush

2009-08-17T20:20:00.000-07:00

Wow, I forgot to let you see the finish project from the class I took back in March with Shepherd's Bush. This is called "My Land" and it will be available for sale shortly. So hang tight, it is a fun one to stitch.

Sorry this is so dark, I need to stop taking pictures so late at night.

Finish Line Reached

2009-08-17T19:53:00.001-07:00

It has happened. A project has been completed. Here it is.....

I promise to take a better picture when it has been framed and it is not late at night. I wanted to at least let everyone know that I have finally finished it. Wow, this took me a bit longer than expected. We will see how fast I get the next project done. Oh, that is Little House Needleworks "Sunflower Inn". I love sunflowers and this one is right up my alley. Here are a few sunflower shots that I got over the weekend.

Isn't this neat. I have never had the chance to find one that was just getting ready to open up. I wish I could be around for the opening but I took these pictures over the weekend up in Ohio during a wonderful time spent with family during a reunion. These flowers are so amazing. The leaves are so large and green. I guess one of these summers I will have to try to grow one in my yard so I can enjoy the process.

Well, enjoy your week and good luck on your projects.

Almost there!!!!

2009-08-10T19:42:00.000-07:00

Well, since the last time I blogged I was..... working on Lizzie Kate ABC Lessons with the vision of being done quickly. Okay, Well, What can I SAY....

Wow, this has taken me a lot longer than I expected. Course, when you put it down more than you work on it could be the major cause. Here is my progress as of late tonight.

As you can see I am on the last line and the second to the last word. Okay, this won't get done tonight but I sure hope it is this week. The bug has bitten me to start a new project and I cannot wait. I think I will be good and find an old project that is sitting in a stitching bag that also is down to the last line and finish it. Isn't it better to take two projects in for framing instead of one?

I made a special trip out the LNS on Saturday so I could pickup the latest Loose Feathers design by Blackbird Designs. What a treat. I just love the pattern, material, and threads.

Course, there was also another new pattern called "Summer Iris" that I had to pickup to go along with my latest collection of Blackbird designs.

I have also been working on Prairie Schooler limited edition Santas for the last several years. The latest 2009 Santa has come out and I had to also add that to my stash. Looks like I will be very busy trying to get these done and still trying make a huge dent in my stash. If the weather continues to be so hot outside I think I will be inside enjoying the cool air and stitching more.

Well, stitching, blogging and TV time is over. Time to pick up a good book and work myself into a peaceful night of sleep.

Happy Monday Stitchers......

Nothing New

2009-07-16T19:31:00.000-07:00

I wanted to add a quick post for everyone to see a great giveaway. Head on over to the following blog and sign up for a chance to win a La D Da pattern.

http://dipdiddlydesigns.blogspot.com/

Progress is going slow on ABC Lessons. Hopefully this weekend will provide me with more of an opportunity to stitch.

HAPPY THURSDAY

Happy 4th of July

2009-07-01T15:50:00.000-07:00

God bless America, land that I love,

Stand beside her, and guide her,
Through the night, with the light from above,
From the mountains, to the prairies
To the oceans, white with foam

God bless America, my home sweet home,
God bless America! My Home Sweet Home!

- Irving Berlin, God Bless America

The house is decorated with buntings on the porch railings, all of my patriotic stitchery is scattered around, and of course a few old decorations. I just love the colors of red, white, and blue. Course, more of the old fashion muted tones. Looking around at what I have stitched I have a lot more that needs to be done. Sorry, not much to show but my mind is racing around thinking of what I forgot in the stash to stitch. Since it is a rainy cold night tonight I will have to stash dive tonight.

Over the weekend I got a chance to run to my local LNS with friends. Course, that means never leaving empty bag. So, the most important purchase had to be the newest Loose Feathers pattern called "It's Berry Time". I bought the material called for but made a change in the thread selection. I selected Gentle Arts Pomegranate. What do you think?

Sorry, guess the picture is kind of dark. I will have to try again after I start stitching it up. Not the greatest in picture taking.

Of course, I couldn't pass up a Lizzie Kate boxer kit. I just loved the saying and will have to put this one out for everyone to see and get a chuckle from. It is me.....

Okay, another bad picture. Guess that is a good indication of how my day went. Oh well.....

Lastly, I got another Shepherd's Bush kit called "Home". I love the hat that you attach to the sheep. Red, White, and Blue..... of course.

Not a lot done on the ABC Lessons but still wanted to provide an update of my progress.

This morning we woke up to find out that it had rained last night and that more of the lilies in the garden had bloomed. I had to run back into the house and grab the camera so I could share them with you. ENJOY....

Well, Brinkley and Josie are being pests and want me log off and play. Have a great holiday weekend and stay safe.

One More Line

2009-06-23T19:39:00.000-07:00

Wow, another line done and many more to go. This still is a very pretty project and I cannot wait to get it done. Course, I was feeling so proud that when I got this one done I would be ready to move onto the other Lizzie Kate's double flip project which has been living in my stash along with the frame for a LONG TIME. In my book this project is considered a VERY LARGE task.

But of course I had to see that she has a new double flip coming out for Christmas and my mind is wondering how fast I can stitch my current stash so that I can justify adding this new project into the bottomless stash pit.....

Decisions, decisions, decisions. Okay, so it really is wallet, budget, stash, time, and "What, another holiday project"!!!! Well, let's just see what the weekend brings. Hmmmm, I know, if it stays over 90 degrees for the rest of the week I will truly have to stay in and stitch a lot.... I guess I might get a bit closer to this new design.... Bring on the heat and humidity. NOT....

Stay Cool Stitchers and Friends......

Current Stitching

2009-06-10T19:11:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love the excitement of starting a new project..... I do.... I recently finished a project which means, "Yes, run quickly to the stash and pick out a new project".... During my last trip to my favorite stitchy shop I picked up the latest design from Lizzie Kate called "ABC Lessons". The colors for this pattern are really neat and bright. Top help show them off I selected a really neat jobelan called "Chai Tea". It has shades of blue mixed into it. Here is my current progress.....

This pattern is going really quickly and I hope I can keep at my fast pace and get this one done so that I can run off to my stash and pick out my next project. Hmmmm, will I go with something patriotic or return to my Loose Feathers stash..... Stay tuned and see...

Brinkley update: Well the poor little guy had his trip to see the vet to experience tutoring.... Okay, that is what we call it to be nice to him. Here is how he spent 12 fun filled days.... He was a good sport and didn't make trouble that I truly expected to see.

He loves to look at himself everyday in the mirror but I really don't think he is smiling in this picture. What do you think his sister is thinking.... Ha Ha .... Been there, done that..... HEHEHEHEDon't worry, he is back to being a normal puppy and running us all crazy. Wow, I can hear him getting in trouble right now and better head off to help control the wild boy.

Signing off and heading to my favorite spot to stitch.

What's New!!!

2009-05-13T16:36:00.000-07:00

Well, well, well. That is all I can say to everyone that has been telling me I am way behind on my blogging. SORRY..... Okay, so I have been busy working in the yard, doing spring cleaning, playing with the doggies, and oh yeah, stitching a lot but really haven't gotten anything done.

I recently went the International Quilt festival in Chicago and found a really great lap-stitch frame.

This is from a family owned operations in Wisc. Here is a link to their website plus a picture of the owner. It was really nice to get a chance to talk to him and also to view his cross stitch work.

http://imagesstitcherydesign.com/

So, what is attached to the frame is a project that I have been secretly working on. It is a design from Shepherd's Bush that I got from taking a recent class from them. Here is a really neat shot of a section I just finished. (Get the hint, this is a big piece for me)

For Mother's day I did treat myself to a new pattern. I got Lizzie Kate's ABC Lessons and the material I got to stitch it on is called Chai Tea. It has a really neat color variation to it. I wanted to do something different. Sorry this doesn't show up better.

Got to run. Storms are headed our way and I wanted to get this posted before we loss power or whatever else could happen. Be safe and keep stitching....

Happy Spring

2009-04-14T17:54:00.000-07:00

Sure doesn't feel like spring yet when you still have to wear your winter coat, keep the furnace going, and worry about frost/snow. The weekend before Easter I got to spend time with dear friends up in Door County, WI. It was a fun time to visit, eat, and shop. On the way up my DH let me stop at a stitching store that I have heard about and what fun it was to look around. Course, he kept picking out projects that he liked and I had to say I have that one already. So, you know the next question, "Where is it, I don't remember seeing it done". Okay, so my stash is still growing instead of getting less.

From a really neat LNS I got the following Cricket Collection.

My kitchen is all done in Sunflowers, so I will be adding this sunflower pattern to my collection and maybe to my blog. I cannot believe that this design is back from 1994. I think it is fun to find older patterns that still can get you excited to stitch.

My other favorite type of designs is Halloween. So, when I saw this one I just couldn't pass it up.

I have been working on a project that I am not sure I can share at this time. I was lucky to take a class recently from Shepherd's Bush and I have been making myself work hard at getting this class project done. You can look at their blog to see their pictures from the class. Anytime you can take a class from Tina and Terry do it. It is so much fun and their projects are wonderful.

Well, I am going to sign off and run to the couch so I can get at least an hour of stitching in before calling it a night. Time is flying by just way to fast for me. Can you believe that we are halfway into April. Where is the warm weather?????

Goodnight stitching buddies where ever you are.

Finish

2009-03-12T14:33:00.000-07:00

This past weekend all I did instead of my chores was sit and enjoy my stitching hobby. So, with that let me present my completed project.

This was done on a 28 count Lavender Bliss. This was a quick photo of this project so I could at least post this update for my BFF's to see. We are trying to stitch Blackbird designs on Sunday's as way to stitch together but from our remote locations. I really need to get them to learn to blog so that they can share their projects with all of us.... Right Ellen and Terry.....

Well, off to finish up things around that house that did not get done during stitching time. Hey, if you get a chance look at my competition at Spinster Stitcher. I am so excited to beat her on completion of a project. Sorry lady....

Something Neat

2009-03-05T15:04:00.001-08:00

This is a really neat virtual village to see. Click on this link and explore.

Blackbird Progress Update

2009-02-25T19:41:00.000-08:00

Well, the weekend progress continues on "Beyond My Heart". I am working quickly to get done before Spinster Stitcher completes hers. Well, I think I am neck and neck with her. Kind of fun to challenge myself this way. I guess that helps to spur my progress along. Here is what I have done so far. As soon as this one is done I will be starting "Two Hearts" which is the latest pattern in the Loose Feather's club. I am going to do it on a 32 count linen called Cupid's Blend. Stay tune for progress next week on that one.

Sorry that the quality is not the greatest tonight. But when you are trying to update your blog with someone wanting attention from you it is kind of hard to do.

Brinkley (4 months old) is a handful. I cannot wait for the puppy time to be over. He is constantly finding ways to get into things. If it wasn't for his big sister pointing him out when he is bad he would be getting away with a lot more. All I can say is "Thank You Josie for Watching"..... Love Mommy...

Slow Progress

2009-02-18T19:14:00.000-08:00

Okay, progress is going slow between the two projects I have going. During the week it seems that I am running out of energy early in the evening which means my stitching doesn't get picked up. My best effort has been a few stolen hours over the weekend. Here is my progress shots of Flying Geese and Chicken Feet....

Also, Sunday's are dedicated to Blackbird designs SAL with my BFFs. Here is my latest progress on "Beyond My Heart".

Husband's.... I am being called back into the family room to spend time with him and the doggies. Well, I guess that cuts my blogging time off early. Sorry, stayed tuned for future updates. If I am lucky it will still be this month. Where does time go.

HELP

2009-02-03T19:22:00.001-08:00

I am in need of some advice. The picture at the top of my blog is a valentine pattern from Hinzeit that I did several years ago. I did not put glass on it since I have had issues in the past with other ones in which the charms have moved and I cannot get them back in place due to the glass. Well, the charms on this have tarnished and I am not sure what to do to clean them without having to take this framed piece apart. So, if anyone has any ideas I would love to hear about them.

No stitching done this past weekend. What a drag. Between cleaning, visiting, and taking care of sick puppy this was not a stitchy weekend. I hope to make that up quickly.

January Updates

2009-01-27T19:25:00.000-08:00

As time slips by so does my ability to update the blog. What can I say.... Okay, a 12 week old puppy can keep you busy, keep you from sleeping, and drive you insane. Yes, Brinkley has been a handful and the only time I can get some stitching done is when I make it nap time or leave him with DH. I have to admit, we went to puppy class tonight for the first time and what a shock. He sat in my lap and watched all of the other puppies going nuts and amazed me that he wasn't. Course, wait and see what next week brings. I think he was just in shock.

I recently made trip out to visit one of my BFFs. What was amazing is that we found a local shop close to her home to visit and what a selection of patterns, material, and fibers. So, we had to make the most of our trip and find a few patterns that we had to add to our stashes. I had planned to only work on UFOs in 2009 and cut down the new additions but that went out the window as soon as we walked into the store. How can we explore a new local shop and not walk out with huge smiles on our faces.

I picked up the most amazing pattern called "Flying Geese and Chicken Feet" by Brenda Kocher. It incorporates patterns from four different quilts. It uses many different kinds of fibers and in the store they had it done in my most favorite color combinations. Green and purples.

I picked up the pattern and fibers and decided to do it on congress cloth. The store gave me a listing of the colors they used but after I got home I just couldn't figure out what was used where. So, when Monday rolled around I called the shop and they were so wonderful to take a picture of their finished sample and e-mail it to me. A two hour drive in the snow to their shop was out of the question. Here is the pattern book and a picture of their finished piece. Don't you just love it...... I do......

Course, this wasn't my only purchase. I also got the following pattern "Winter Blooms" by Hands to Work. This will have to be added to my stash and hopefully it will be finished before 2009 ends.

Spending the day with my BFFs was so much fun. With our busy lives and the distances apart we decided that since we cannot get together very often to stitch we would try something else. We have created our own SAL. Each Sunday we are to find time to sit and stitch on any Blackbird design in our stash. This is a great idea since I have a huge collection, okay I have the total collection of Loose Feathers club patterns which include fabric and fibers. So for the past two Sundays I have been able to steal away a couple of hours in the morning and late evening to work on started projects. As of Sunday I completed Loose Feathers Pattern 31 - Blessings & Kind Wishes. I did this on 28 count Sand Dune. Off to the framer it will go....

For next Sunday I will be picking up Loose Feathers Pattern 32 - Beyond My Heart. I will be doing this on 28 count Lavender Bliss. Here is what I had started and stashed.

Before I forget I did do one resolution so far for 2009. La-D-Da's Bushel & A Peck. Course, this project has not been in my stash that long but I had hoped to finish it for a gift during the holidays but that did not happen. I hope to get some help in getting it finished and I think it will make a special Valentine gift for someone special in my family. Stay tuned, I have ideas.

Hey not to bad for the last two weeks. Okay, not too good on getting the house cleaned but I did get the Christmas tree down and took advantage of how many naps a new puppy needs. Until next time and you know how bad I am, have fun stitching and stay tuned. The saga continues between which will come first, puppies and/or stitching.

Happy 2009

2009-01-04T19:34:00.000-08:00

I have never been big on new year resolutions but I think this year I will have to come up with one for my stitching stash. There are so many UFOs in my stash that I need to make better progress in completing. Not only in getting the stitching done but also to get the finishing done either by me or someone more qualified.

This weekend I did have success in completing my stitching of the 2007 limited edition from Prairie Schooler called "Let It Snow". I now have 2005 - 2007 completed and need to start/finish 2008 in the next several months. I still hope to have all four of these pictures framed together in some sort of design.

Our holiday was wonderful and it was great to spend time with family and friends. The biggest highlight of our holiday was the new addition to our family. We have a new puppy, Brinkley who was born on November 1st. It is amazing how much we forgot about puppy care in the last 15 months since Josie came to us. She is being an amazing big sister to her new brother. So far they love to run and play and don't like to be apart. I think she will be a great help in the potty training area.

If I am not blogging as regular as I should be know that Brinkley must be keeping his mommy and daddy very busy. He loves to play and is amazed at all of the toys that are in the toy box that his big sister has accumulated in the last year. Here he is playing inside of the toy box in seventh heaven.

Happy Stitching and I hope your resolutions are reachable.

A Christmas Letter From Josie

2008-12-22T20:18:00.000-08:00

Ho Ho Ho,

This is so funny. I watch my mommy surf the blogs night after night and she is always amazed at the wonderful stitching items that fellow bloggers send to each other. She knows that it is her turn to join into the fun and stitch something for someone else but I think she is scared her work is not up to their quality.

Well, today I got one step up on her. Today in the mail a very lovely handmade stocking was sent to me from my very favorite Aunt. She lives very far away and I have never had the chance to meet her but I know that very soon she will be coming out to spend lots of quality time with me and oh yeah, my parents.

Here is lovely picture of the wonderful stocking that I got with my name on it. Oh, of course I had to pose with it. It is the holiday season of taking family photos and I think this occasion calls for a picture of me.
My wonderful aunt does the most amazing plastic canvas work. She could make a career out of it and I know she could sell millions...... Maybe I should be named in her will instead of my parents.

Here is a closer shot of it. Mom made me get out of the shot. Gee whiz.....

You should be here with me tonight. My dad is busy baking his wonderful holiday cookies and the house smells so lovely. My poor mom is busy cleaning house. I have been a big help to her tonight. After she washes a spot on the floor I run over to look closer and let her know if she has missed a spot. For some reason after I walk away sure enough a new spot appears. I guess I have helped her so much tonight she is giving me a break by shutting the door so that I can lay down and rest. The holidays are so much work.

Well, I am going to curl up by the tree and enjoy my new stocking. Poor mom... Hopefully she finds some time soon to sit down a stitch for a friend. I know that will put a smile back on her face.

Merry Christmas to all my friends. May 2009 be a happy and healthy new year for you all.

Love, Josie

Bad, Bad Blogger

2008-12-16T18:58:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I am heading towards getting a huge lump of coal for xmas since I have been a really bad blogger. Sorry.... What can I say. First Thanksgiving was here and with the weather being nice I had to go outside and help with the yard decorations for xmas. So, with that done the next job was to start thinking about ideas for xmas presents but that didn't happen too quickly. WHY!!!! Well, let me tell you the great news. Josie went to test for her certification to be a Therapy Dog. Yippee, she did it with flying colors. We were so proud of her. Now it is time for me to sit down and fill out the paperwork that goes along with the testing. YUCK..... I hate paperwork. Okay, so now another week has passed by and what did I get done in stitching?

During the week after Thanksgiving I started and finished.... Gertie Gobble from Bent Creek.

I hope to make her into a standup but that will have to wait until after xmas. So, next I felt like doing a bit of knitting and made a couple of dishcloths from a pattern for Breast Cancer Awareness that I found on the Internet. I just love the pink cotton yarn I found.

If you are interested in getting this easy pattern go to http://knitwits-heaven.tripod.com/breast_cancer_awarenesst.htm. This was a very quick project. Course, then I got excited to find a couple of xmas patterns to knit but gave up when the first one didn't turn out. Okay, so maybe knitting isn't my favorite hobby. So, to wind down from that disater I decided I needed to read a book and picked up Nicholas Spark's book called "The Guardian". It was so good I couldn't stop reading to pick up my cross stitch or update my blog. Again, bad, bad, bad blogger.

Since my shopping is just about done, the xmas tree is up and decorated, I allowed myself to pick up a bit of stitching and worked a tiny bit more on La-D-Da's Bushel & a Peck. I don't think this will be done in time for xmas since we still need to wrap the gifts, put up the xmas village, and bake some cookies. Oh yeah, and the most important part, attend a few parties.

Maybe I will be more together next year..... Or not....

JOSIE - sends you love and happiness for a great holiday season and blessings for a great 2009.

Till I find time to sit and blog again, have a safe and quiet night.....

Happy Thanksgiving Stitchers

2008-11-27T10:25:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving Ghost
The last piece of apple pie is gone;

How did it disappear?

The bowl of delicious stuffingHas also vanished, I fear.
It happens each Thanksgiving,When leftover goodies flee,

And each of us knows the responsible one

Couldn’t be you or me.
The only way it could happen

Is readily diagnosed;

It must be the crafty, incredibly sneaky,

Still hungry

Thanksgiving ghost.

By Karl Fuchs

Hope that all you fellow stitchers find time today to sit a bit and stitch today. I am enjoying a quiet morning before all the family time starts to watch the Macy's parade and stitch up "Gobble Gertie" from Bent Creek. Maybe I will have it done for tomorrow and pictures to follow later.

Enjoy your day......

Another Manic Monday

2008-11-17T19:19:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday fellow bloggers. Did you survive the day? I did and I sure do hate Monday's. But, now that the day is almost over a feeling of calmness is settling in.

Over the weekend I got some stitching done that I hope to make into a xmas gift. It is from La-D-Da called "Bushel & a Peck". I am doing it on 28 count "Foglifter". This saying is one that my mom's favorites and I am trying to think of a neat way to finish it off when I am done. I would like to somehow incorporate it with a shadow box frame with a couple of old family photos or maybe even put it into a covered photo album. If anyone has any other ideas please let me know. I hope to have the stitching done this week so that I have enough time to get it finished.

Gosh, I am trying to get better at blogging and sometimes I need to hide away from everyone so that I can think about what to blog. Well, look at this. Josie doesn't seem to want to obey my wishes. It is amazing how quickly dogs learn to open doors.

I cannot complain, she had a very rough week last week. We had to take her to Purdue Vet school for tests. She was a good dog and seemed to have enjoyed getting extra playtime in with everyone there. Bad part, they played with her late into the night and the next night when we got her home she decided that playing at 3am was fun.

Since she had to have a test done which means removing some of her fur they did give her a really pretty bandanna to wear for the holiday to cover up her missing fur. I think she likes it. I know I do.

Well, stay tuned for more updates. My fans are complaining again that I am not keeping up with my postings so I plan to hit this again as soon as I can.

Recent Buys

2008-11-12T16:41:00.000-08:00

Fall time is my most favorite time of the year. I love the trees changing colors and the wonderful fall days when it is just warm enough to wear a sweatshirt while raking leaves. Okay, I don't enjoy raking leaves and it is so amazing for someone that has no trees in her front yard on how many leaves I have to end up raking. Okay, maybe it is a pay back for when I did have the most amazing maple tree that changed into the most fabulous colors. Course, we decided to build a planter box around the base of this old maple tree and ended up killing it. Oh well...

So, to add to my enjoyment of fall time I picked up "Harvest Time" by Prairie Schooler at my local stitch shop.

http://www.prairieschooler.com/books/bk93.htm

Sorry, I don't know how to add a picture from their website to my blog.

Also, I picked up an old pattern from Waxing Moon Designs called "Autumn Minis" since it had a really cute turkey that I think I will stitch into a pincushion.

I also enjoy doing Redwork and went out to review the patterns at Crab-Apple Hill Studios. Take a look at this link of the really cute Snowman that I purchased.

http://www.crabapplehillstudio.com/items/411_vintage_candy_cane_snowman.aspx

I will have to jump into doing this one as soon as possible. It will make a really nice Christmas gift as a pillow for a special friend.

I know that I haven't given you much of an update on my stitching progress but I should be just about done with Blackbird Design "Blessings & Kind Wishes" which is from their Loose Feathers collection. Stay tuned since I did change the fabric color and it is turning out really nice.

Well, I wanted to give a small update on what is happening since I have heard that I don't post enough.... Enjoy Ladies... More to follow.

Finished Project

2008-11-01T14:53:00.000-07:00

Wow, I did it... I have finished another project on my own. What another huge step. If I play my cards right I should have one more item done this weekend. We will see what tomorrow brings.

This is the project I received in September at the Shepherd's Bush Retreat. It is called Shared Stitches 2008. On one side is the alphabet used with the names of all the designers that were at this retreat. It has been finished into a pinkeep designed by Merry Cox. She wrote the best instruction sheet for finishing this. Thank you "Merry Cox"....

I have to admit that there are very few items that I have totally completed from the past retreats. My goal from now is to work on these items and get them done before I head out for any new retreats. Also, if I do a good job I should be able to finish them myself except for anything that I will have framed.

"I am a TV star" says Josie..... Yep, she is all excited that yesterday on Halloween her picture was shown on the Chicago CBS morning news show. Wow, she is still beside herself that Ed Curran showed her picture from last year dressed as a skunk.... Hey, stop laughing. At least she will be remembered. Sad part, I don't think they even understood her costume. Well this year she played it up big waiting on the front porch for the kids. She was the queen of her castle

From our house to yours ---- Happy Halloween..... Love Josie

Weekend Projects

2008-10-19T18:46:00.000-07:00

This weekend has gone by fast but I have to say that I did enjoy myself by spending many hours doing nothing more than stitching. I have been working on "Blessings and Kind Wishes" by Blackbird Designs. Here is a picture of what I have gotten done this weekend.

I am doing this on 28 count Sand Dune. I love how the colors are popping on this fabric.

My other big "HUGE" accomplishment for the weekend is a hanging pillow that I have finished all by myself. I have to say that this took a lot longer to complete than I expected but the joy I have in knowing that I did this myself is amazing. This is a Workbasket pattern that I picked up in Utah a few weeks ago at the Shepherd's Bush Retreat. I stitched this with a piece of fabric I purchased at the retreat and I don't know what the count or fabric name is. I used Gentle Arts color Raspberry Parfait and attached a flower charm also purchased at the retreat. I made and added cording to this small pillow which was a first for me. I did some research on the Internet on how to make cording and I have to tell you that examples I found were all I needed in getting this accomplished.

I have a couple more projects completed but I want to finish them before I post a picture of what they are. Hopefully I will continue to have luck in my finishing endeavors. Stay tuned.

Josie wanted to be in the picture with Mommy's finished project. She has been such a good doggy lately that I could not turn down the chance to add her into the picture.

Lost in Time

2008-10-06T15:22:00.000-07:00

Wow, I am so sorry that I have become a lazy blogger. I have to admit that I have been a busy lady with the day to day activities we all have in our lives. I even got to the point that my stitching has been put aside.

So, to catch up on what is new first requires me to address an award I got back in August.

Thank you... Stitches of Life....

So, to repay the favor here are the rules and my picks for awards....

The rules of the award are:

1. The winner can put the logo on her blog.

2. Link the person you received your award from.

3. Nominate at least 7 other blogs.

4. Put links of those blogs on yours.

5. Leave a message on the blogs of those you’ve nominated.

My favorite blogs are the following:

Susimac at http://susimac.blogspot.com/

MaryKathryn at http://marykathryn.wordpress.com/

Tina and Terry at http://shepherdsbushblog.blogspot.com/

Laura Perin at http://two-handedstitcher.blogspot.com/

Vonna at http://thetwistedstitcher.blogspot.com/

Next, guess what....????? I just got back from Utah after attending Shepherd's Bush Stitching Retreat. What a wonderful time and place. Here are some pictures from the retreat.. Make sure you go their blog to see other pictures....

Here we are after our banquet having fun saying goodbye to all of the new friends me made.

I will try to keep posting in the next month or two my progress on all of the kits I got. I had the privilege to take classes from the following:

R&R Productions

Merry Cox

Jacqueline Holdsworth from Ackworth Samplers

The other track that was available had:

Shepherd's Bush

Charland Designs

Blackbird Designs

The best item of all was that we each received a charm bracelet at the beginning of the retreat and then at each class you went to you got a charm that was designed by the designer and made by Charland Designs. I will have to take a picture of the bracelet and post it for you to see.

Well, I need to run but I wanted to let you all know that I am still out there and need to become a better blogger. Stay tuned as the projects are starting to take shape again.

Olympics

2008-08-14T20:04:00.000-07:00

Well, my buddy blogger "Spinster Stitcher" came up with the idea to stitch patriotic projects while watching the Olympics. Well, I did that and here is the project I worked on (still needs to be ironed and buttons sewn on). This is "Scatter Freedom" by Shepherd's Bush. I think I might have to do a couple more patterns quickly before the games end. Thanks for the idea fellow blogger and anxious to see you this Saturday in LaPorte.

By the way - 2006 Prairie Schooler Limited Santa is done. I am excited for August 25th to get here and start on 2007 Limited Santa next. At this rate I will have several Christmas patterns done to enjoy this holiday season.

Going Pink

2008-08-14T19:41:00.000-07:00

In honor of a special survivor in my life I presented the following pillow to my buddy Denise. She has a strength that is so amazing and such a great outlook on life. As I stitched this pillow for her I thought of her struggles and pain and wished them all away with each stitch I took.

The pattern is by Lizzie Kate called "Peace, Love, and a Cure". I bought this pattern from my LNS and waited to see what Shepherd Bush had come up with in stitching and finishing of this pattern. I knew it would be so spectacular and it is. They stitched the pattern on a larger count fabric that has a bit of glitter to it. They also had the finishing fabric available for making this into a pillow which really sets the design off. The picture just doesn't do this justice.

Here is the back.

Here is to bringing sunshine and hope to everyone out there that has a story about someone special in their life and the struggles life has presented to them. Keep the strength going and hope that someday we will be even more prepared to win the battles we are presented with. Denise, you are my hero and a true survivor. Have a Happy Birthday and many, many more years of happiness, love, and good health. XOXOXOX

Merry Christmas

2008-07-28T15:25:00.000-07:00

I heard of a neat idea from a fellow stitcher about working on a Christmas projects every month starting on the 25th for a week. That way you will be able to get more Christmas projects done on time. So, after hearing this wonderful idea I went to my stash and found the wonderful limited edition Santa's from Prairie Schooler that I had set aside.

So for the first project I worked on the 2005 - Here Comes Santa -- Hurray, he is finished.

Well, yes, he is stitched but I wasn't sure what I wanted to do with him so I set it aside and waited for the next month's Christmas week and started 2006 - Dear Santa.

I started the 2006 during May while I was gone on vacation but did not get a chance to pick him back up until now. I worked all weekend on him and I am excited to say that he will be done by Thursday. Course, I stitched my poor fingers sore yesterday on him. Need to find a better needle.

In August I plan on starting 2007 "Let it Snow" and work my way into completing the newly released 2008 "By the Chimney" Santa. I know, perfect timing in getting the new one added to my stash.

I am excited that each of these patterns are finishing up to be the same size and material. I am thinking of finding a way to frame the four designs together into one frame. I have seen where East Side Moldings has taken each design and framed them the same and then incorporated all four frames inside of a bigger frame. Here is what they did with a newly released SamSarah design "Six Stockings in a Row". Hey, this is also in my Christmas stash.

So, think about it. What a great way to get ahead of your Christmas projects.... Not only stitched but finished in time to get the attention of your local framer or finisher.

PS... My fellow blogging friend, Stitches of Life ... I attended our local county fair and saw some of your wonderful work. Great job as always... You have to be proud of your son too.... He did a fabulous job.

La D Da Weekend

2008-07-21T19:11:00.000-07:00

I just realized tonight that I forgot to show off the wonderful door prize that I won at the La-D-Da function on July 12th. It is a decorated tin can filled with DMC colors used in most of Lori's projects. What a treat it was to win this. Since I had a new pattern to try and fabric in my stash I headed over to my prize can and found all the colors I needed. Thanks Ladies... You made my day and weekend.

So, the pattern that I started with the colors is "Mocking Bird". I am not sure what the fabric is that I had in my stash but after looking at the colors next to it I figured it was a go. I am not the best at selecting fabric. Guess I need to learn and now is the time to try.

I also got some work done on the class project. I really cannot wait to finish this one and try my hand at finishing this myself.

Recently while reviewing several other blogger's sites I ran across a finished project of Haberdashery Designs that I have to try. It is called Voodoo Boy. I have picked up a 28 count black joblean (spelling - not sure about) and from my stash of threads I found some the brightest DMC colors. I have several of these to make. Voodoo Boy seems to be a needed stress release for some workers I know. The names are being left off to protect the innocent.

Hey Coni, if you think you have issues with Stewey not picking up his toys take a look at what my Josie is up to tonight. Not only did she pull out most of her toys she then decided she was too bored to play any more. I think the two of them need to meet and have a lesson on how to pick up their toys. Cannot leave all that fun to their Mommies.... Can we.....

Well, Josie says it is time to get ready for David Letterman. Which means it is time to sneak into bed with Mommie and steal her pillow. Good night and sleep tight.....

Wedding Sampler Update!!!

2008-07-13T18:02:00.000-07:00

Well, as you can see I still have lots to go on the sampler. I was asked over the weekend to give a progress update and I have to say I am so sorry for being so slow at updating my progress. I was excited to find 1/16th ribbon floss from LNS. The color is oatmeal and looks great against the material and ecru DMC floss. So, progress continues and hopefully by the weeks end I should have more done.

This was a wonderful weekend. On Saturday I attended a luncheon put on by a group of ladies from our local area and our guild NANI who brought in Lori Markovic - La D Da. Lori designed a special project for us and as soon as I get mine completed I will post a picture. Lori is such a great teacher and this was my second opportunity to have a class with her. She brought along many items for sale and of course I added to my La D Da stash.

Another neat thing happened at the event. I got the great chance to meet another fellow blogger who has a blog that keeps me going on a daily basis and in stitches. Please add Spinster Stitcher to your list of blogs to review. I know you will truly enjoy this amazing lady her side kick Stewy. I also got the chance to meet her sister. They are truly a great pair of ladies.

Today I took a quick moment to take a few pictures of our lilies before they are gone. They are so pretty and I just could not stop taking pictures.

Well, before the day is over I am going to head outside and enjoy the last bit of cool weather. What a gorgeous day we had. I am so tired from all of the work we did outside today but feel great knowing that I did get some things accomplished.

Wedding Sampler

2008-06-21T08:12:00.000-07:00

It's Saturday,

At the last monthly guild meeting someone brought in a box (a huge box) of old cross stitch magazines that someone was trying to find a happy home for. After going through hundreds of magazines I ran across this 1986 issue of Cross Stitch and Country Crafts Magazine. On the cover was lovely wedding sampler that I could not resist doing. I made a trip last Saturday to my favorite LNS and purchased 25 count dirty linen for this project. The designer called for using three strands of DMC but after starting with that I was not happy with how it was turning out. So, I have changed it to two strands and I think it looks much better.

I have a question though that I need help on. There is a border that runs around the design that calls for using 1/16 silk ribbon and then doing a statin heart over it. I cannot find 1/16th ribbon and was trying to think of something else to use instead. Help??????

Well, today will be a fun day here at home. We have a graduation party to attend and then we have to hurry home for the town parade and festival. The nice thing about living close to the festival is that it makes it easy to run over to the festival each night and buy an elephant ear or ice cream cone

Have a great weekend....

Father's Day

2008-06-12T17:47:00.000-07:00

Father's

What a special person that we have received in our lives. A person that has worked hard to keep a roof over our heads, food on the table, and values to use in our adult life.

There are so many special memories that I have of my dad that I would like to share. These memories always make my heart sing and put a smile on my face.

-- Christmas morning being woken by a old fashion camera with lights brighter than the sun shining into my eyes. Walking into the living room and seeing a Barbie Doll Dream house, Chatty Cathy doll, and another doll house taller than me. And poor Dad so tired since he stayed up all night putting them together.

--Vacations taken out west and seeing the old west with Indians dancing. Going to bed that night in a hotel and being afraid that the Indians would come and steal me away.

--Spending the afternoon picnic after church at the airport just to watch 10 jets take off. Okay, so I just aged myself.

--Fishing with a plastic worm that caught so many fish that Dad could not get them all of the line fast enough to fish himself.... Off came the plastic worm and into the lake it went.

--Sunday afternoons wrestling with Dad on the floor while he tried to watch Sunday Football.

--Going camping on my birthday and being the only campers in the park. Why? It was snowing and the campground maintenance people were turning off the water for the year.

--Dad and I being the only brave souls to sit outside on a cold and windy day to have a campfire.

--Dad helping me rescue baby birds that had fallen out of their nest due to a storm. Using his warm hands and breath to warm them up.

These are just a few of the memories that make my dad so special to me....

Happy Father's Day Dad..... I love you.....

Patriotic Themes

2008-06-12T17:31:00.000-07:00

The summer time is my favorite time because I can put out all of the patriotic projects that I have completed. Well, okay, I need to complete some more and I have to say that anything with red, white, and blue in it will be added to my stash.

Here is a picture of Liberty Sam from Lizzie Kate. I was lucky enough to have my LNS send him off to be finished for me. Well, I started the process and then figured it would get done faster, no, it would get done better if I had someone else that was experienced complete it for me. I was right. She did a great job.

Also, the USA is a Prairie Schooler design that I got free a long time ago at my local LNS shop. I love to get their free patterns and of course I do love buying their patterns.

Wow, I cannot believe that I am actually posting again in under a week. Now I now I am a blog addict.

Dinky Dyes - Celtic Knotwork Cross

2008-06-10T19:32:00.000-07:00

Well, after successfully completely the latest Loose Feathers Design - Rites of Spring I jumped into a new project that I though would be a quick weekend project. Well, look at these pictures and let me know what you think. Hint: this involved a lot of frogging and today is Tuesday.

Working with Dinky Dyes is such a treat. I did discover to keep the pattern of variegation going and to stay in line with the chart I had to work threads up both sides of the cross evenly. I found this out when the lines crossed over and they didn't match. This pattern has a lot of quarter stitches in it which I have to say I have not done in years. So, that added to my challenge of staying in line. I am using three strips of highlighting tape to mark my progress on the chart.

On a lighter note: I just returned from a fantastic retreat put on by Moss Creek Designs. If you are looking for an exciting and challenging retreat this is one not to miss. I had the opportunity to take a class from Jane Timmers - Fancywork, Jackie du Plessis - It's Fine-ally Finished, and of course Rae Iverson of Moss Creek Designs. The class sizes were wonderful and the projects are amazing. I have a lot of work ahead of me in completing them and learning some new stitches. I know that this will be a repeat retreat for me in the future. Plus, I had to chance to travel out by family and enjoy time with them. So, two wonderful events at once - stitching and family.

Well, it is off to work on this cross again. Good evening and good stitching.

New Blackbird and SamSarah Projects

2008-05-22T17:10:00.000-07:00

Wow, I have truly fallen behind in my posting. Well, to let you know what I have recently finished here are a couple of pictures. The first picture is a design from Blackbird called "Easter Parade". This pattern offered two different patterns and so far I have just finished the basket but hope to get the rabbit pattern done next. I had this finished in a fancy victorian style to be a bit different. I just love how this turned out.

The next is a SamSarah pattern called "Creepy". I got the pattern and material from a retreat with Shepherd's Bush back in 2006 in Park City, Utah. I was lucky enough to get it finished the same way they had it done. It is always great to take a camera with you.

Hope you enjoy my "Josie". She will be a year old next weekend and is the pride and joy of my life. She has been a loving puppy that also likes to be in the center of attention. Course, I don't mind and she does look great next to my projects.

Signing off to finish up more stitching. Have a wonderful holiday weekend. Watch for more updates to come.

Happy Easter

2008-03-25T16:48:00.000-07:00

Wow, spring is officially here but it still feels like winter. Forecast is calling for more possible snow this evening. Oh well, at least the house is decorated for spring. Just finished "Eggs" by Shepherd's Bush and was very happy with the fabric kit for the hanging pillow. What is also fun to do is to get out the finished Easter projects from previous years. "Just Bee Yourself" is a cheerful design from SamSarah that is finished as a simple pillow and next is "CottonTail Heart" which is a design from Mosey'n Me that I had finished as a stand-up.

In the last two weeks I finished "Easter Parade" basket by Blackbird Designs and "Hunt" by Shepherd's Bush. Stay tuned for photos of the finished projects.

Recently someone gave me the idea of doing Christmas projects on the 25th of each month for a week. This way you can stay ahead of your Christmas projects and have great gift items for your friends. So, today is the 25th and I am signing off to work on a Christmas project.

Newbie Blogger

2008-03-14T11:21:00.000-07:00

Welcome,

This is my first attempt at blogging. I am addicted to cross stitch and have many favorite designers. But at the top of my list is Blackbird Designs. To date I have completed six designs with many others at different phases. Here are couple of my favorites. These are from the Loose Feathers Designs. One is the Sweetheart Sampler and the other is Moon Garden. I hope you enjoy these as much as I do.