31st January Project-Start

Today is the final post of my personal crazy challenge of January 2011.  There are a few things that I am surprised over, first I think-- that I worked on 31 projects, 24 new starts, worked on 7 wips and finished 1 new one and 1 oldie from last year.  Also, where has the month gone?  Here is it, February 1st already.  I cant believe it.  I am thrilled to be encouraged by many of you-- especially to keep the challenge going all year long.  But, I cant do that, as much fun as it would be.  Last night, I was actually tired of stitching.  Can you even?!  Yes, I was tired of starting another new project-- this I thought would never happen.  My mind has moved on to other things and I must say, I would rather work on some of the ones I started already this month!!!
But, I cant let anyone down, and I did start a beauty last night.  Jane Ballard from the Porcupine Collection.  When I found out last year from my friend that she was going to re-issue these fabulous patterns, I knew this was my chance to grab her.   

The amazing thing about it, is the linen I wanted to use, I didnt have any 'in stock' but, when I got the mail yesterday, the color miraculously showed up!!!! (Thank you very much :)!)  I couldnt have been more pleased with this :)  I knew I wanted to start her last night and without the right color linen, I wasnt sure it would work out. As of Sunday, the choices I had were not quite perfect.  But, now with the right linen, the color conversion could begin!  I have to choose 5 more colors, mostly greens and tans but the colors needed for the border and her dress was chosen last night with ease.

A blend of Belle Soie, SNC, Gloriana and ?? will be used for Jane on 45ct Vintage Woodsmoke.  Aaaahhhhh.  She is going to be gorgeous for sure.  The pink much brighter then I am used to, but looks great in the start.

This is a bigger sampler then I thought it would be for sure, and the pattern is one very large sheet of paper, like 24 x 30 and I will have to make a working copy for myself so I can cut it up into smaller sections, to make it more manageable to work with.
You remember that we like to go antiquing right?  Well, I picked up these beauties yesterday.

I hardly ever see needlework supplies in antique stores, and if I do, I cant afford them.  This pair is about 4" long and I have no idea the age or company who made them.  They do have 'Germany' on them but again, going with looks instead of age for me was all I needed, and I could afford them too :) 

So there you have it, a short run down of my Crazy Challenge for January 2011!  I have enjoyed it so much, and reading your comments and encouragement is so wonderful.  I am thrilled to inspire and to be inspired.  I look forward to what the rest of the year has to bring!!  I know it is going to continue to be an amazing year!!!!!!!