One Stitch at a Time

Miss Johnstone

2012-01-30T13:04:00.000-05:00

Another great weekend has been put to bed. Some much planning goes into some of these weekends it is incredible. Then within a blink of an eye, it is all over and what we have left are fabulous memories!! I surprised some of my friends this weekend at a stitching event, and I think they were almost left speechless!! Yea!! I am so excited to see everyone!!!!! I love surprises, it is hard to get me to be surprised.....I am too much of a busy body. But surprising others, easy :)
Yesterday was one of the wettest days I can remember. I think it rained, and it rained hard for like 18 hours. It was pouring when I finally got up, and was pouring till about 11pm. WOW. But, there is no real negative to this day---- only positive. I got alot of stitching done.
We watched 3 movies, and I stitched and stitched and stitched. Even during the day!! Very unusual for me to stitch in the daytime. I have an enormous feeling of guilt because I should be doing work......but I said to heck with work, I am stitching. And, here she is:

My mistake and I feel bad, that I have been calling Miss Johnstone, Miss Johnson. I forgot the 't'. Oh well, as long as her name is stitched right, that is all that matters!! LOL. So petite- she is 6 1/2" wide x 9" tall. Stinkin' cute right?! She will go with the other finished ladies to be framed in no time. She is worked in most of the called for Belle Soie colors on 45ct Vintage Maritime White (love this color). I made some 'adjustments' in the flowers, just because. I am happy to have her complete!! I already grabbed another project that I stitched on last night ATS-- but I am not sure that piece will be the one I work on for a while or something else. One of the very best things about finishing a sampler (for me) is that I can go into the basement and look through the stash/WIPs to see which one is yelling the loudest!!!!!

I hope all of you had a fantastic weekend, I look forward to a great week!!! For so many reasons!!!!!!!
Thanks for stopping by!!

Isabella

2012-01-26T12:32:00.000-05:00

Most days, I have a hard time being creative in my blog post title. Why is that? I try to give a mystery, what could be so fabulous in her new post? Well, today is for sure not one of those creative days. I am drawing a blank. However, no matter the title, I am excited to see folks coming to take a look. There has to be something new if there is a new post right? Something exciting and inspiring??!!! I am not sure on the new part, or finding something so fabulous in the back of the basement.......but, maybe some inspiration. I have made some nice progress on my love of the week Isabella.

Like most of you that have this super cute sampler already stitched and hanging beautifully in your home; I am crazy about the cow. You know when you are a kid, that brown cows have chocolate milk. Well, this one is for strawberry milk :)

I just have to fill in the rest of the cow, his head is done. I wanted to see what it looked like before I hit the pillow last night. Upon being satisfied with it, I knew that tomorrow (now today) is a new day. I started with the right tree, finished the grass across the way, finished the left tree......saving the cow for last. Not last but not least either----- I still have a few more things to get finished up. Tonight, I will continue on the bottom 2 pages of the pattern and get her put to bed hopefully by this weekend. I am not holding my breath however.

Stitching is always interesting, no matter the size. Seeing pics close up, and getting excited about them I always wonder about what count folks are stitching on. For the most part, I stitch on 45ct, then 40ct. Rare but not out of the question, some of the others. Stitching Isabella on 45ct it is VERY hard to really see her size. I have added a dime (from my husbands personal collection) next to my cow, so you can really get perspective of how big he really is! Can you imagine, this dime is from 1914. The original Isabella Johnson sampler is from 1854. I think this dime is ancient, almost 100 years old and wow, 1854. Really gets you thinking right? What did the dimes look like in 1854? I will have to check it out.
I was chatting with one of my friends this week about how in this industry, being a married woman, being legally allowed to be in love with so many others. AND, I am encouraged to do so. Last week was Rosina, this week Isabella, next week ????. LOL.

Maybe the next time I show her, she will be closer to the finish, or finished!!!!
Thank you to all of you and your kind words on my Rosina Payne. If you are thinking about stitching her, I assure you, she is a pleasure to work on. She doesn't talk back, and she gives you enjoyment in each and every stitch.

Thanks for stopping by again, and have a fantastic day!!

The first one

2012-01-23T16:17:00.001-05:00

I have anticipated for the last few days the finish of my Rosina, but I have not be able to accomplish as much as I had wanted. It has been quite the week. Where does the time go?? Already it is this afternoon........... Low and behold, I have put the finishing over 1 words in this morning and here she is. Miss Rosina Payne. The first finish of 2012!!!!

I just love her. FINALLY finished her!!!! She is one of my favorites, and I am looking so forward to her framed. I have added a few other pics for your viewing pleasure.....

I am looking forward to getting back to Isabella Johnson and my January 1st project-- Drawn Thread. Tomorrow is another day :)

Hope everyone had a great weekend, and I look forward to continued progress reports from all of you!!!!!

Unbelievable

2012-01-17T10:11:00.001-05:00

Happy Tuesday!! Everyone enjoy their 3 day weekend?? (I know, some of you already have that :)) What a great opportunity for extra stitching!! So I wanted to share an experience that I had this weekend, and knowing in our little stitching community-- while large, is still quite small. Knowing some of the most exquisite items landed in NY 5 months ago, to prepare for their debut this weekend was too much for me to handle. 2 words is all I have to say--- Betty Ring.
I have been waiting for this weekend with most patience since the post somewhere last August, claiming Betty's prized possessions would indeed be sold. Well, the weekend had finally arrived and my Husband and I had the utmost privilege to see them. The catalog has been shipped, and you can see them virtually online, but I assure you------- there is NOTHING like seeing them in person. I slept fine the night before, and knowing the next day would bring such excitement did not keep me up.

Arriving at Sotheby's at around 11:30 the first day of the exhibit-- knowing that these girls were all inside was truly amazing. I have never been to Sotheby's before and found that the folks inside were most pleasant. Each ready to help point you in the direction of what you came to see. While there are many items on display, each floor had its own exhibit- from art to furniture to Betty Ring. Of course, with all of the items they have on display, it is indeed set up like a museum, and there are guards everywhere. After ID's were scanned for security, we were off.

Upon reaching our floor this is the view you see first. There was a gal sitting at this desk, handing out catalogs for reference while you walked around. We asked her if we could take pictures of the samplers. She checked with Nancy Druckman herself, and she said not a problem. So, I was elated. Entering this room of 197 samplers, I finally felt the importance of this event and tears filled my eyes. I couldnt believe I was standing here with all of this precious girls. This experience happened several times-- upon seeing some of my favorites I have been coveting in the books and catalogs.

We have all been seeing this sampler on Sotheby's website for over a month now, and to see it in person-- look at the above pic, the detail is just incredible-- and this detail is repeated in every sampler in the room.

Each sampler had its own description -- who what where and when, and of course the rough estimate of worth. The blue dots you see on each of them, is the number of the lot that the sampler belongs too.

My absolute favorite samplers in the room are the Mourning Samplers. I knew that Betty had the most extensive collection of them and I just couldn't believe how many there really were. The hair on my neck next stood up. The pic right above, is a closeup of the sampler in the pic above that one......I hope this makes sense :)

Each and every sampler is more incredible than the next one. The different stitches used, the amount of french knots used, queen stitches, over one, eyelets, you name it, these samplers are full of them.

The veil covering her face, looks so real-- so 3 dimensional right?? Looking super close it is just perfect painting.

Going to this exhibit, I did not expect many people there-- which is good and sad at the same time. I did talk to several of the ladies looking around, and to see their excitement with all this beauty was soo very awesome. Each one of us pointing out another stitch, another detail. There was a great variety of linen size-- the one pictured above I would guess just looking at it, close to 55 or 60 count. Alot of them were larger in count, and the sizes varied from small, to HUGE. Some samplers there from the girls who went to Mary Balch school in Rhode Island-- (I had to have my picture taken with those!!!) (This was another tear jerking moment!!) You will recognize some of the above pics from being on the covers of her books.

I wish the place was packed, and I know that there will be several of you going to view these fine pieces. If you have the chance, I highly recommend it. It is free to view all these gorgeous pieces-- although it will cost you to get into NYC-- and then there is lunch :) The hardest thing was selecting which pictures to share with you. There are too many to share all of them. I know this small sampling will wet your whistle. I would love to have a collection like this, but knowing they will go to good homes, is all that is important. It is sad they cant be viewed in one place all the time-- like in a museum. I know that there is no money for this sort of ongoing exhibit and it is a shame. This will be the last time these girls are all hanging out together. (There is always the lottery!!!!)

I hope that all of you have enjoyed this small tour :) I am so motivated to stitch now!!!!! LOL.

Half Way

2012-01-13T15:17:00.003-05:00

This post is a few days past due, and I wanted to share with all of you the progress I have been making on Rosina-- the over 1 verse I can best explain is in 4 parts. 2 on the left, and 2 on the right. I have completed the 2 on the left and see the light getting brighter as I near the end of this over 1 tunnel!!

She has her name on the sampler now, which looks great too :) I am taking the night off from stitching and will resume work on her tomorrow night.
I spent one day this week with Grandma. She loves a good hot dog all the way with onion, so I thought I would bring her lunch--- she says it has been almost 4 years since she has had one. I am going to make sure that this dry spell doesnt happen again--LOL. I also had tea and homemade cookies, along with alot of great laughs and deep talks. What a great way to spend the day. I look forward to seeing her again real soon. She has recovered from the big party we had for Grandpa, and while Grandpa was there, he spent most of his time napping :)
One thing I wanted to share that I have seen at her house since I was a little girl, is the mugs that she uses almost daily, rotating of course from the others in the closet:

Dont you just love it?! I keep threatening her that one day, I am going to put it into my big bag of crazy and take it home. LOL. No, I wouldnt do it, but I assure you it is very tempting. I have looked and looked, but still, I have not seen any like this. The search will not be over until I have my own.
I am fired up with all the comments and texts about my last post. I am glad I wouldnt have been the only one LIVID with that stupid mistake. Glad to hear it from you all!!!! I know it is a busy weekend for most, and I am looking forward to updates next week!!

Have a great one, stay warm and stitch alot!!!!!!!!!

What a week!

2012-01-09T13:38:00.000-05:00

Wow, this past week has been something else!! Not only on the stitching front, but on various activities as well. First, I will update Isabella for you and I am not as far as expected:

The algerian eye took forever, almost 2 nights worth. It turned out fantastic and so delicate. I modified the color as I previously mentioned so it is slightly lighter than the top alphabet. I am anxious to start the next section-- the 2 trees and the center cow, but I have refrained, and put her down for a small bit.
What for you ask? To start the over 1 on Rosina.

You see where it reads "and then"? Well that is the 2nd time I stitched it. HOLY **(@#))@!! I couldnt believe my eyes when I read the chart and thought it was wrong, so immediately I ripped it out. Then I re-read the pattern, and laid the 2 sheets next to each other and WOWZA. It was RIGHT the first TIME!!!!!!!!!!!!! **((())!!!!))!)!))!)!)!%%%$&#(@+++===%. Crap!
So, I restitched it, and it took almost all of my time to stitch it, rip it out (over 1 on 45ct--full cross) and then restitch it, and added a few other words. I am not as scared as I was last week about stitching the over one-- something finally clicked and it isnt as hard as I thought. I am actually looking forward to stitching it and getting her done!!!!!!! Yeah!!!!
Onto the other fun stuff!!!!! How many of you have ever been to an auction? I mean, not at a large NY auction house, where things are through the roof and out of most of our pay grades?!!!!! Well, we went to one and WOW was it sooo much fun. The amount of things up for auction consisted of anywhere from furniture- all makes and models, tools, old toys, pictures, rugs, glassware, etc., etc., etc and things were CHEAP! I picked up a few things, and 1 being a pair of old wooden spindles for 3 bucks. 3 bucks!!!! I think that the most expensive item sold over the 5 hours was $280 bucks for a old display case-- including original rippled glass. What a deal!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We had so much fun, we are looking forward to another auction real soon :)

Looks good right? Nothing like starting off the day with a naughty treat :) We have been so good, and this past week has been soooooo bad! I am ready to get back to routine asap. But, what can you do but enjoy a good donut from Dunkin' Donuts.

A celebration was had this week, with my grandfather turning 90. Unbelievable right? I was thrilled to be able to go to the party and help with cake, cookies and almond treats. See why this week has been sooooo naughty?!!! LOL. I got some great pics and video of my grandfather, cousins, aunts and uncles. Grandma was telling us that she made 2 cakes the previous day, put them outside on the back porch and to her dismay, the squirrels had thought the party started early :(. So she made 2 more!!!! She most certainly doesnt need the practice, but I am sure she wasnt amused!!!!!

Looks like alot of progress has been made with the January WIPs and inspiration has been going strong. Looking forward more updates this week!!!!!!!!

Freezin'

2012-01-04T11:45:00.000-05:00

What could be better in the winter time ---when it is freezing out??? Besides stitching, is having a great big roaring fire!!!! Yes, it has been super cold and last night we were toasty warm by this great fire :)

Yes, along with the warm fire, was a glass of wine and some stitching!!! Of course!!! I chose to continue with Isabella for a bit, and I am loving her. She is ever so delicate and even with the cow, very elegant dont you think?

I took this picture while Isabella was laying across my lap, so she is a bit lop-sided in the picture, but I assure you she is not :) I hope to get the next section done, so that maybe tomorrow night I can start on the infamous cow. I am going to have to make some adjustments to the colors, the poison apple belle soie that I am using, does not have much variation, so I am going to add a lighter color to get the look like the original. I have to do a little more diving today--- darn it. I hate looking at my stash!!!!!!!!!!! LOL.
Thanks for all the encouragement on my decision to work on WIP's this January, I am looking to start the Drawn Thread piece, and also Ann Dale: Big and Tall but I am not sure when. Ann, among all the other Ann's that I have playing in the yard, needs a bit of work-- and I mean choosing the right color linen, and playing with some of the silks. When that finally happens, I will start her. In the meantime, I am enjoying Isabella :)

Hope everyone is stitching madly and staying warm!!!!!!

Already the 2nd

2012-01-02T09:51:00.000-05:00

Another great New Years Rockin' Eve under our belts and now it is time to get serious :) I mentioned in the last post, that I didnt really have much thought into this Januarys challenge and yesterday, I got it all figured out. I went into the basement and got out a couple of WIP plastic totes that I have been keeping them in, and brought them into the light. As soon as the lids came off--- you could here the angels "Aaahhhhhhhh"

And each one of these bags started moving around and wiggling. It was quite a sight. I should have taken a video!!! So, pulling them out, and going into my WIP stash diving stance, I had a blast revisiting these projects from last years crazy challenge. I was so excited to see the ones I had started, and the ones that I have decided are going to be my challenge for this year, is to finish some of these fabulous pieces up. I went through the list of starts and wips from a year ago, and out of the 31, I did complete 12. Now, it is almost half, and some werent even on the list of finishes that I did complete-- ie. Double Dee :) I must admit, I have chosen some great samplers to stitch, why wouldnt I want to continue stitching them?????? I would love to see them framed and hanging someday.
Rosina has all of her motifs complete, I finished those up on new years eve, and I have to do the verse yet. I am still betting she will be close to first, although, there might be a small contest between these girls!

My January 1st start began without a hitch. See the progress I have made so far?! I have never done a darning sampler, so this one will be interesting. I will have to keep you posted on this one for sure :)
I did however, choose something to stitch on last night, that I have been anxious to work on. (Again, digging out of the WIPS) Isabella Johnson has made a wonderful appearance, and I think Rosina and her are going to be neck and neck for completion!!!

In the above pic, is where I started her last night after supper at about 8:30 and the bottom is where I stopped (12:15am) stitching her, and after several episodes of Pawn Stars. I love that show!!!!!!!! Focus, focus!!! I think I will work on her again tonight. Progress on her is going great, and she is stitched on 45 count, so for the closest thing I had for perspective, is a mint chocolate Hershey kiss-- pictured in the top right hand corner. I will have to get the exact measurement out. I love the frame, and will have to look into getting one close to it. I know just the place too :)

I have put together a big bag of crazy with some of my great one of a kind project bags/WIPS to keep me inspired. I have to get a few more of these-- looking at my first picture in this post, those bags are boring!!!!!!!!! Need to spice it up a bit-- just like getting a new sweater. Bringing it home and putting it into the closet-- there is a small rustle through the air-- what do we have here?!!! Spice!!!!!
Onto a great new day here in January. Looks like this is going to be a fun week!!!! Looking forward to seeing new starts and inspiration from all of you, it is going to be very very exciting!!!!!

New Years Rockin' Eve

2011-12-31T21:17:00.001-05:00

Another year has come and gone before we could even get used to saying 2011. Now we must prepare for another year. My mother always said that when we got older, time would go faster. I know that we did not believe her when the school year began, but by the time summer came, we didnt know what to do first, and before we knew it, summer was indeed over. So now as an adult, I am positive my mother was right; about that, and of course so many other things we didnt want to admit.
This year was another great one for us, and looking ahead, and I think that next year is going to be even better! How can that be? Each year getting better, as we keep getting older? Well, finding the positive in many things has helped me achieve this theory, and I will continue to do so. It is hard, believe me to think this way sometimes, sometimes more then others, but the good always seems to out way the bad. I mean in day to day activities, we go through some trials, but the next day, a great positive happens, and helps you forget that trial you dealt with the day before. I am by no means Ms. Positive Pants, but I am not classified as Ms. Negative Nelly either!!! LOL. There is so much going on in this world, that needs some 'real change', 'change you can actually purchase stock in' and 'change that will be for the better, not the worse'. Looking at all of these things happening can really put a damper on life. Again, looking at 2012, it is going to be a better year :)
Reading so many wrap up blog posts, year in review....has been great fun. SO many beautiful finishes, and gorgeous samplers now on my need to do that NOW list........LOL.
I could do the same, but I have decided not to look back, but to continue looking forward on the things to come within this new year that is upon us. I dont have 31 projects planned out-- as a matter of fact, I have my January 1st start planned and that is it at this point. I am sure there are going to be other starts, but I would love to work on some of the WIPs I have created for myself in January 2011. I do love starting projects, but I do have a want and a need to finish them as well...

I am moving along on Rosina Payne, and 'if I woke up with my head sewn to the carpet; I wouldnt be more surprised' that she wasnt one of the first WIPs finished in 2012. I have some other tricks up my sleeve, but nothing as crazy as last year. Dont get me wrong, I had a BLAST last January, but with being so much busier, I havent really had time to think much about stitching, let alone what crazy challenge am I going to get myself involved with.
The last week has been fantastic, and with so much fun being had, it is time to get back to brass tacs. I did want to share the special gift my Husband gave me, being something that I have known about, knew that existed, but never saw or touched in person.

It is a coveted item by many....... the white/green featherweight by Singer, 1964. I am soooo thrilled with this gift!!!! These were made and sold only in Great Britain and are hard to find in the US. The black featherweights, were made here and only sold here, so they are on the hunt for the black ones :) How fun is this right?! It does work. The belt is missing on the machine, but that is easy to replace. The light works, the gears move and it is ready to go. However, I dont plan on using it, just more for display. I am fired up!!!!!!!! She is a real beauty :)
I hope all of you enjoyed your Christmas, mine was fantastic. Many firsts for me this year which will make the time even more memorable. Until next year right?----I know, I know, no rushing!!!!!

So there you have it, my very last post of the year 2011. How many of you will watch the ball drop in Times Square NYC?? How many of you will be there to watch it?????? It is always very exciting!!!!!!!! I hope that everyone has a safe and Happy New Year. It is going to be a great night, and a fabulous new year!!!!!!!!!!!!

On this Christmas Day

2011-12-25T17:23:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas everyone!!! What a blessed day this is!!!!!!! For so many reasons, it is a wonderful day :)
As I write this long over due post of nearly 3 weeks, I think about the hustle and bustle that has gone on. I have been super busy, as many know and I have finally been able to relax the last few days. Even up to this past weekend, a short and sweet trip, however long and tiring, marked the end of the year for us. Since Thursday, I have been able to pick up my stitching for the first time in weeks. I was at the point of bah humbug with the stitching since it was so long ago. Progress has been made however, and moving right along, here is Rosina.

She is looking great, and yes, I am putting off the over 1 until the end. Shame on me right? I have 3 more motifs to go, and I hope to get 1 of them done tonight. I have to fill in her name between the 2 butterflies-- only 1 is stitched as of now.
This Christmas I am visiting with my in-laws and we are having a great time. On Friday, I baked a bunch of cookies for the festivities and today the kids are coming over to decorate my famed cupcakes.

Top are (decorated by my husband) sugar cookies, next up chocolate chip, peanut butter and last but not least---- snickerdoodles. Some of my favorites!! The sugar cookies are no more, pretty popular and I dont think they made it 1 full day! No worries, there is plenty more to make if need be.
So, I leave you with pictures of the beautiful tree my MIL has decorated, along with a close up of an ornament I made several years ago, and my favorite, a cardinal. What a great Christmas this has been-- enjoying family, laughing and sharing stories of Christmas past.

Hope all of you have a very Merry Christmas!!!!!!!!

So this is next--lots of pics

2011-12-05T12:15:00.001-05:00

First of all, I would like to thank all of you who posted/emailed/texted/called with so many kind words about my 2 finishes. I took a night or 2 off from stitching, just to poke through my stash and see what was calling me. I know, I know, that I have one in mind that should be brought out, (some of you know already what that one is........) but I wasnt feeling that project as I thought I would. So, if you arent called to stitch something-- should you suffer through it?! Well, in my case, I did so with Quaker study and I couldnt bear to do that again until next year LOL.
So, I brought out what was calling to me, and that is my Rosina.
I left her this past summer to lay and wait until the next time she would be brought out into the sun, and finally, it was her turn. She has been oh so patient, and I feel it is her turn to shine.

This is where I left her in August of this year, and this is her transformation. I have been putting off the top verse........

Sorry for wrinkles, I didnt want to waste time on ironing her, when I was going to be stitching on her again tonight. And because this is my favorite part, I had to show a close up of the flowers again!!!!

I am avoiding the top over one verse, but knowing I will be using the Society of Soie Surfine for the words, it doesn't bother me quite as much. I should put in 1 strand every other motif, then it wont be all at the end.......... Maybe tonight I will add some words......

The below picture is where I am so far, last night I added some of the leaves to the tree on the bottom. We shall see what gets done tonight, I should have that tree done for sure, but maybe some words will be an order......... She is coming along beautifully.

You know with Christmas just around the corner, it has been getting colder and busier it seems. Shopping is crazy, people running around with 20 things on their lists of daily to-do's. I have been enjoying both, the hustle and bustle, and most of all, the cooler weather.

Yes, my Friends, the cooler weather. I am not sure if something has come over me in the night, or many many nights ago, but the cool weather is a real nice treat. I guess with a proper coat, gloves and scarves (thank you very much!), the cooler weather is most pleasant. I am still surprised with myself, not complaining about the cooler weather.

--- Wait for it ----

I actually have been enjoying it :)

I am looking forward to a winter season, well, at least for the next bit LOL.

After work at night, putting on my PJ's and my slippers...... making some green tea (after supper with a cocktail of course!!!!) while stitching has been most wonderful these past few weeks and I definitely looking forward to many many more of these nights :)

What about you? What is your favorite during the cold weather?

Excited

2011-11-28T10:10:00.001-05:00

Did you all have a wonderful relaxing weekend?! How was your Thanksgiving dinner?!!! Anyone go to boxmart or Target on Thursday night for fun, and walk off some calories?!

Just in case you were wondering, we had a great weekend!!! Went to my cousins on Thanksgiving for the best dinner ever-- she is such an amazing cook and we played with the girls for hours. They are soo cute-- they both have the biggest eyes and longest eyelashes!! We left there and went home and put on a movie and I stitched a bit. Friday we visited again with my family. They had just gotten home with a Christmas tree and were looking forward to decorating it and the front lawn with lights. So cute, the baby who just turned 1, scooted over to the tree and would touch the branches ever so slightly, turn around and look at you with the biggest grin......then clap her hands :)

The biggest news I have to share with all of you this great weekend, is that I have 2 finishes to share with you. Yes, 2. The first I finished yesterday afternoon is Quaker Study by Carriage House samplings. Stitched on 40ct vintage examplar from Lakeside with SNC. I have had a love hate love hate relationship with this piece for sometime now and am more then thrilled to get it done. I had this problem a few years back with another piece that I had started, loved the piece but couldnt stand working on it. Why is that?! It is a great piece and I already have the frame picked out, but wow, what a bugger.

Check. So the other great finish I have to share with you is Dona Dorothea Gazano Y Garcia otherwise known as Double D, is done!!!!!!!! I finished her about 12:05am (this morning) and cant believe how beautiful she really is. She is stitched on 45ct lakeside with a variety of silks. She is smokin hot!!!!!! LOL.

What a lot of work she has to her, the bottom left side square and middle square are solid satin stitch and there is some over one, but mostly full cross. Alot of color changes. I am super excited about this finish!!!!!! She was a joy to stitch, and I looked forward to it everyday. I am also ecstatic that I have 2 more under my belt for 2011!!!! It has been rough going :)

So the biggest question is--- what is next?!

I am truly Thankful

2011-11-24T08:32:00.001-05:00

For so many things this year. I am thankful for my husband, my family, friends, our health, shelter, food, employement, etc., etc., etc. Waking up everyday and being able to do the things I love-- each and everyday. (Some of course are easier than others LOL) I am thankful that God has provided me with so many wonderful things-- (not all physical things either) and we are truly blessed.
Today, we are spending Thanksgiving with my cousin and his family.... 2 precious healthy little girls. It will be nice to relax, play with them and visit with family today. I am looking forward to some pumpkin pie and a nice glass of wine (of course!)
I am thankful for the opportunities that we have to be creative, in many many ways, and to be able to share these ideas and projects with all of you. I have met alot of people again this year that share my love for cross stitch and I am thrilled to have some of them now as my friend. Each and every day is another opportunity and we cant waste them.
I am excited to show you progress pics of double dee, they are progress pics from last week and earlier this week. I have not taken the pics from last nights progress, but I am getting closer for sure. My husband and I watched 2 movies last night, 1 being Smokey & The Bandit--- I had never seen these before and of course have heard of them. They are pretty funny. I had a good couple of chuckles with Jackie Gleason's character of Sheriff Buford.

Isnt she coming along beautifully???? I am so excited with the bottow right hand corner, I have loved this since I saw my friends piece this summer. It was worth the wait. I have the center satin stitch almost done, so I will post another pic of that in a day or so. I am not sure how much stitching will be taking place today, but I am hoping at least SOME!!! I hope everyone has a wonderful day today. Eat lots of turkey, drink wine and have a great time with your friends and family!!!!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!

Hoopalooza

2011-11-15T21:01:00.001-05:00

In my last post of Double Dee, I had a great comment asking me about the hoops I use for stitching. As a matter of fact Michelle, your timing couldn't be better :) I received an order today which included some new hoops. They are Hardwicke Manor Hoops from England. A Friend of mine recommended these to me several years ago, and I have not looked back since.

They come in several sizes, my favorite is the 6" for my every day stitching and they also have the 4" and the 5" for smaller pieces and they are great for traveling. I bought a few more for my stash because I like a hoop with the WIPS I am working on, and it seems that lately I grab my super cute project bag, and I am hoop-less.

Also, the quality of these hoops is like no other, and I want to make sure that I have several on hand, you never know :)

I also received a few other goodies, but most exciting is the newest color in the Society of Soie Surfine silk/linen club. Of course, the color in the picture is not near the beauty that it really is, so pale, slightly mint, but a hint of sage?! I am the worst in comparisons, but you can get an idea. Not in the club? Check out www.societyofsoiesurfine.blogspot.com and read all about it!! Simply gorgeous!!!

PS: Thanks to the best shipping manager there is......no squishing :)

Moving along

2011-11-10T10:20:00.001-05:00

It has been 4 days since I have been able to stitch and I am going crazy!!!! Busy busy, but I hope to get some stitch time in tonight. I wanted show you the progress from last week, I thought I would have more done by now..........I am sooooo close to finishing this row :)

I look forward to starting the satin stitch on the next row... arent the colors just fabulous?! I cant wait to get this one finished. I think it is going to make a lovely companion to Maria's Dechado!!!

So many color changes, needles are once again stuck into the side of the couch LOL. But it makes it so much easier.

Stay tuned for the next update!

It is the 31st of October

2011-10-31T19:57:00.002-04:00

I guess when I was younger, and was more active in dressing up for Halloween, going to crazy parties and having a super time, it would be more of a surprise that today is Halloween. But, last night-- we called it goosy night, others mischief night-- you know the random toilet papering of trees, forking of the neighbors lawn--- went by without a 2nd thought. Today, seeing the kids dressed up, I thought-- oh yes, it is Halloween. Oh yes, and even dogs get dressed up :)

I wonder though, what is your favorite candy to eat or hand out to the trick-or-treaters?? Mine is snickers or butterfinger. There are so many options though.......Chocolate..... period. :)

While for most of us, today is just another working day, another checkoff on the calender towards the next exciting Holiday. Thanksgiving. Yes, Thanksgiving. Love a home cooked meal, fellowship with family and friends. I cant believe that it is a little over 3 weeks away already!!!!! I was at the mall about 2 weeks ago, and to my great surprise, holy smokes--------- the Christmas crap was already hung as decorations in the stores. Now, dont read 'crap' as a negative thing--- believe me, I love Christmas like the next guy, (and yes, Merry Christmas is in my vocabulary). I know that plans for the Holidays need to be underway- for the extensive parties we all love throwing and going to, preparing the food and choosing the perfect outfits. All of us crafters have been thinking about Christmas at least since the summer, but stitching or sewing things takes time right? I know that the stores have to put up the inventory to sell, BUT the STORE decorations are up earlier and earlier. I would love to see a beautiful display of fall items, lets have one Holiday at a time. I have worked retail for many many years, and know that these things are to get customers in the 'mood' but for me, not so much. It is what it is.

Anyway.........I know that all the folks that got snow this past weekend are in the mood alright!!!! My parents got around 12 inches and what a site to see. He sent me a few pics, I thought I would share one with you.

I visited with some very lovely ladies this weekend, at a Halloween stitching party and I was thrilled to be there. Such fun, seeing them dressed up, and seeing the different Halloween projects they were stitching at. Alot of laughing goes on at these events, and I love it when my cheeks hurt!! I didnt get any stitching done, however, I never do at these events, I always rip out when I go home....and you know that is no fun at all!

I have been stitching, with work still busy, I make myself stitch at least a bit every night. This has helped me keep sane. Double Dee is coming along great, I have the top half done and started the bottom half.

The linen is 45ct vintage meadow rue and it burns me that the color is SOO off in these pics. However, most of you know what meadow rue looks like. The colors are bright and I am loving her. I have worked a small bit on Quaker Study,

I have been watching All in the Family while stitching Double Dee, and I just cant even. Archie Bunker kills me! Soo funny. I look forward to watching a few more episodes tonight while stitching some more. Enjoy the rest of your Halloween :) Trick or Treat!

Its flying by

2011-10-19T01:43:00.002-04:00

Where have I been you ask? Daily I am sure that you look at your favorite blogs, to see no new posts. Geez.....isnt that such a pest?! What are our blogger friends up to? Where have they been?? Well, I am one of them, and one of you :) LOL. I always wonder what folks are up too, but I know that it is always something else, other then stitching that comes in the way---- isnt that terrible? Stitching should always be a priority right?!! Oh sure, in a perfect world. Too, in that world, we would get ALL the projects in our stash complete :)

So, what has been up with me? In case you were dying to know........ work has me super busy, (which is GREAT) I have had little time for stitching. I have made minor progress on 2 WIPS, but mostly work and oh yes, gallivanting.

In the last 2 weeks, I was in San Francisco, and WOW, is all I can say for the weather. I have been there so many times when the weather was cool, damp, misting or overcast. I know that the marine layer rolling in is truly fascinating and something to see, to watch roll in over the bay, and cover the golden gate bridge......but this time, I didnt see much of it. October right? If it was only like this all the time. Went to a 49'ers game, watched them kick some serious Tampa Bucs butt!!!!! 48 to 3. Nice job 9ers. The new coach is really something. Glad to see them making a comeback.

Edgar a while back reminded me of Alamo Square, where some of the most famous of Victorian homes are. I knew that I had wanted to see them for the longest time-- remember on the tv show Full House? The opening credits always showed these 'painted ladies' and they are really something!!!

There were alot of folks enjoying the park that day, picnics, naps, running around. Sooo clear right?!!!!
My favorite was on the opposite end of the park,

So exquisite. Built in 1890, and still standing beautifully. The entire row of houses surrounding this park are so gorgeous, one is nicer then the next. Alot of them are being restored, which is fabulous, you know they dont build them like this anymore :)

We drove around alot, next time I would like to do the famous '49 mile' driving tour, I have to read up more on it, but instead of walking (which I dont know how many blocks of these steep hills I would last in heels) would be fabulous. You can see so much more this way too. I love looking at all the houses. One is more incredible than the next. You almost get whip lash!!!!!! Soo amazing.

One of the last stops before changing for dinner, was the Palace of Fine Arts.

Outstanding, breathtaking views, and the best part is, that some lucky (and I mean lucky) folks live right behind where I am standing taking this pic, and they look at THIS everyday!!!!!! Can you even?! You can walk around the entire area, there were birds, fish and even turtles in this park. I counted 11 turtles sunning themselves, not even skiddish!!!! They must be used to being on display here!

We went to Harris' Restaurant for dinner, famous for steaks, prime rib, etc., etc., and I love a good surf and turf. I dont have it too often, but if you are going to do it, do it all the way or dont bother right?

Ordering the filet and fresh maine lobster, I had no idea what I was in for........

HELLO LOBSTER!!!!!!!!!!!!! You can hardly find the filet!!!!!! LOL. I couldnt believe my eyes!!!!!!!! This beauty was 2 1/4 pounds of delicacy. WOW is all I could say, I was laughing and shocked all at the same time. I had to take a picture. The sad part is, this big guy doesnt really have that much goodness to offer---- but I will say it was well worth it!!!!!

On the stitching front, not to much like I said earlier, however, I do have a progress pic of Quaker Study by Carriage House, which I dont believe I have posted at all yet.

Almost halfway, but I havent touched this in so long, seems like months, when it has only been like 10 days. Such a whirlwind these last 2-3 weeks have been. Double Dee is coming along, and I mean she is, but slow and steady!!!!

I finished the top rows of name and alphabets, which I completely forgot about, I was too excited about all the dogs and deer I was stitching! But maybe next week, I will have a few more stabs at her :)

Thanks for all your patience in waiting for the next posting on my blog, and then again for reading all the yada yada yada in my rambling. I had a great time, and cant wait to go back again soon :)

Check this out

2011-10-03T17:12:00.000-04:00

I have always enjoyed documenting and organizing things. So this summer, when a friend of mine told me about how to print your blog, I was intrigued. Why not have a hard copy of my blog, I love this! Last month I remembered the conversation and went about ordering a copy of my blog in a book format.

When it arrived in the mail a few weeks later, I tell you, that I can not be more pleased. The book is perfect. You choose the cover, choose the front and back cover pics, you can choose wording. Other then that, your book is already ready to go. I did choose to include the comments from all of you in the book, and it is so exciting to re-read them all. I love seeing the progress pics, finished pics and remembering the times where I was when stitching those pieces.

The book is of standard 8 1/2" x 11" and I chose the hard cover variety. You can have a soft cover, or even in black and white, for a little less. I am not known to skimp on things, and this was no exception!!!!!

Any of you thinking of doing this, it is well worth it. This book is a great keepsake for my stitching room along with all of my needlework books. I chose to have each year printed separately, so the first book shown is 2009. Also exciting, it was the first year of my blog and amazing how it has progressed. The background is not shown, and the followers or links on the side.....etc., etc., but that is ok. I am so pleased that I just finished ordering my blog book for 2010. I cant wait to see that one in a few weeks. Each book will vary in pages because of the amount of posts you have, and also the comments. If you choose not to have your comments published, then the book will be longer. If you are going to do it, go all the way, or dont go at all :) Visit www.blog2print.com to order your book, it is sooo easy.....(even us stitchers can do it! LOL)

If anyone has done this book, Id love to know what you think of it also. I look forward to many more years of documenting my stitching. It is a must have for everyone!!!!

And a last note-- wowza, I am so thrilled with all of the great comments that I have received on on American Beauty! She was a great fun piece, and I am so excited all of you enjoyed seeing her as well.

Have a great week-- more progress pics coming up soon:)

American Beauty

2011-09-28T00:55:00.002-04:00

Another WIP done and under the belt. I finished this cute little design from Sheepish Designs called American Beauty a few nights ago and havent had time to get onto the computer, let alone post on my blog. Of course, not knowing the specific name to this fabulous charcoal 32ct linen, isnt the end of the world right?! This tiny pattern called for Silk n Colors..... now I am not one to EVER complain about using silks, but I didnt have most of the called for colors, so I thought it would be fun to convert the cover picture to overdyed COTTON. Yes, you read correct.

I am excited to cross off another WIP from the crazy January challenge. One stitch at time, they will all get done.......eventually :) I am working now on Carriage House Samplings Quaker Study. I had started this ????? and look forward to getting it done as well. I will take some progress pics and share those with you soon. It is another easy stitch, dont know why it has taken so long to get'er done!

There are a couple I am eager to get finished, and with Double Dee on the warmer, (NOT on the back burner) it is nice to free up the WIP basket. So many options..........so little time :)

Live in Harmony

2011-09-23T09:37:00.000-04:00

Last night while watching 'Dragonfly' with Kevin Costner (which was really good) I finished up Live in Harmony by Homespun Elegance and I am glad to have another WIP under my belt.

Ta-Da! The colors are not as bad, now that the whole thing is stitched up. I used NPI with 40ct Examplar from Lakeside. The linen is gorgeous, I dont use that color often, so it was a nice change :)

The next WIP I am working on, Sheepish Designs American Beauty. I am working on this one on 32ct linen, not sure of the color---- but it is a dark charcoal. I switched the colors to a variety of overdyed cottons, and I am pleased with the results so far.

About halfway done, I forget how much thread you really go through on the larger counts!! WOW!!! I do like using 2 threads when using 36, 32 and 28 cts (which I rarely use these days) so it is nice to actually be using some of this great stash I have. It is very strange working on 32ct ~~burlap~~ linen, but.........it will be worth it, the colors are fabulous.

An update from last weeks flooding pics, I thought it would be nice to share what a difference a week makes.

The water has receeded and is passing just under the bridge (it has a long way to go though) and the Chicken place is no longer under water. The road is clear. But there is alot of mud that is been replaced onto their parking lot!!!
And last but not least, I was able to get a ton of shots of deer, feeding one morning at my mothers house. We saw them in the yard, I quick grabbed my camera and walked outside. Slowly I made my way to the end of the driveway, where I sat on the tail end of my car and took these pics. They didnt seem to be too alarmed. My mom said her friend has them eating out of her hand! How cool is that?! They are so beautiful, we watched them for close to 15 minutes before they moved on. Funny hearing them eating acorns :)

Arent those spots so super cute?! My parents have these guys in their yard daily-- fun to see them for myself! Until next time......thanks for visiting, it is always great to read your comments......one of the best things about blogging- that and being enabled by you :)

A New Week

2011-09-13T10:23:00.002-04:00

It has been a very long time since I updated this stitching blog with some stitching. I have no real good excuses, so I wont bother any of you with them! In the last few weeks, I have mulled over this project and that....but no real good progress to really share. My friend asked me yesterday if I had anything to share, and I said sure, I will see what I can do :)

So up first is my progress on Live in Harmony from Homespun Elegance. Of course, I did some crazy color conversion, that in person, is not really me at all, that is what you get-- haste makes waste. I had started it in the January crazy start challenge, and the colors were pastel, and I didnt really think I liked it. So the other day, I sat with my NPI and changed them up a bit, made the colors still brighter then usual, but now they are almost too bright. AARRGG. My husband thinks the colors are great, I think they are OK. But, they will do, I am not ripping them out now. The pattern is cute, next time I will take more time :) And of course, I made my birds dark charcoal.........

Double Dee is coming along nicely, I am enjoying stitching these small animals each night, while we are watching classic Paul Newman movies. It is horrible the color these pics are--- the lighting isnt working with me today. The v. meadow rue--- is so gorgeous and the silk is unbelievable, here looks like grey, blah.

The movies we have been enjoying are Cat on a hot tin roof (love Elizabeth too-- she is just fabulous-- and those clothes!!!! I want a creme dress!!!!!), The Hustler, The color of money, The Road to Perdition just to name a few. I wonder what will be on tonights big screen!!

Last week I was able to see some of the massive flooding that was going on in the NE from all the storms and it was unbelievable. One town the river crested at 14 feet, the record was 9ft. The entire town was flooded and the ruble was everywhere.
I heard that another town supplied dumpsters for their residents, to help clear out the basements instead of waiting for the local trash day. Sidewalks were lined up with wet, moldy crap as far as the eye could see.

Others got their own dumpsters to remove the ruble out of their own basements.

Pics I took of a river cresting, simply amazing, the day before it was clearing the bridge about 1 foot below. The next day, looked like this

It is classic, the KNC building says FOR RENT on the front building. We joked, said the next sign should say-- 'Will build DOCK to suit' NICE :) Isnt it something?! This river is usually VERY low, so low, it is more like a stream, you can see the bottom most of the time and the rocks are like stepping stones. I have never seen this river so fast moving. This flooding has backed up the area for days, the rain has been unbelievable, but this week has receded. Traffic was incredible. These pics were not from IRENE, but from a later storm. IRENE, the street we were driving on to take these above pics, was flooded also from the river, and the detours were far worse.
Glad to see things are calming down, and business is back to usual. The bridge is no longer over-flowing, but it is still high. Everything is drying out. Too bad we couldnt have moved the storm to Texas-- they could have made great use of all this water........

This is a new week, and it has been nice and clear. Back to work, back to stitching. Hopefully!!! LOL.

Ten Years

2011-09-11T16:14:00.000-04:00

I was fortunate enough to be in New York this week, and even was able to catch up with a friend on Friday night. So, my husband and I went in to the city earlier in the evening. I drove us downtown to see 1 WTC that is being built as we speak, it is going to be a beautiful addition to our forever changed New York skyline.

I parked a block away, leaving my husband in the car (so we didn't pick up any souvenirs from the NYPD) and I walked around a bit. Immediately listening to my surroundings and paying attention to all the new buildings, watching the people, the police activity, there was the most amazing sound-- like angels singing--- a choir was practicing for today's memorial service, and the feeling of peace was among all of the busyness. We stopped. Listened. Tears filled my eyes and chills ran down my spine. A cool breeze ran across the back of my neck. You couldn't see them, only hearing their voices echoing among all of the construction, all of the ciaos. There was a sense of calmness, a pure sense of peace. This feeling of course 10 years ago early in the morning was not the case. Of course like it was 5 minutes ago, we all remember, some knowing folks there, some loosing loved ones, others just reaching out in anyway possible. I will never forget that horrific day, most never will.

I was unable to see the actual memorial, the dedication was today, and tomorrow will be open to the public-- people from all over the world will walk the memorial, reading names of loved ones lost. We owe alot to those who have been doing their parts over the last 10 years, and those that will continue to do so. This is a great city. We have a lot of work to do still, and it will continue to be an ever changing place.

What is taking place there now today, after 10 years, more people then I have seen in a long time, I know alot were visitors, but you can tell the difference. The locals are moving back in. Terrific new restaurants, new businesses, new life being born again. This is a great city. We are determined people, you may kick us down, but we will rise up.

Visit http://www.911memorial.org for more information. It is amazing the growth in lower Manhattan. Simply incredible.

We will always remember.
Gone, but not forgotten.

Love, Joy, Peace

2011-08-23T10:47:00.001-04:00

I have a finish!! YEAH!!!!! I know, it is a long time in coming, but better late then never right? Sunday morning I put the last stitches into Plum Street Samplers Fruit of the Spirit. I was desperate to finish on Saturday night, but I started baking red velvet cupcakes, and it was getting everywhere :) So, with 2 rows to go, I powered it out just in time for sampler club at my local LNS.

Isnt it fabulous?! A friend of mine asked last year if we could do a project together, and I of course am always up for a challenge. She finished hers in June, and I started mine in June-- (both of this year) I had some catching up to do for sure. The thing is-- and I know (no excuses) but I am busy, and busy doing 10 things-- at once-- like all of you reading this. So, I made it a priority to finish it before the end of the summer, and I have succeeded. Yea!!!!!!!!!

I have added a quarter in the pic (yes Dad, I have it saved for you!!) to show perspective on the size of this cutie patootie piece. Stitched on 45ct Lakeside with most of the called for colors, with some minor adjustments. Yes, all of the over one is full cross. The design size is 6"w x 4 1/8" tall. Sooo cute :)

I look forward to working on another piece-- well, I always look forward..... I am still pondering the rotation that I want to have going, but last night, Double Dee was the gal of choice. Tonight, is a new night, will it be Double Dee or someone else?!

Hope everyone had a great weekend, staying cool and with lots of stitching time!!!!!!!!

So much patience

2011-08-16T10:47:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone! What a beautiful day it is today, and I am excited to finally update my blog. Last week was pretty busy, so not too much stitching got done, but enough I thought I would go ahead a share-- plus, the new gal is in town right? First up, I must show you the progress I have been making on Fruit of the Spirit by Plum Street Samplers.

The grass took forever, in more then the obvious reason that there is 19 rows to fill in, but that the thread would break every 50 stitches or so. Now, most of you know that I like using a longer length of thread, only because I cant stand having to re-thread all the time. So, I tried a shorter length, then shorter, then finally I was using 1 foot lengths, and it still continued to happen. What a PITA!!! There was no turning back so I pressed on. It took a few nights of this ajida to finally get the front lawn done. So, now it is and while watching 'Vertigo' (great movie- never saw it before) last night, finished up the lawn and started the final phase of this cute project. Almost done with the black box-- why I didnt finish the row I dont know, but tonight is another night to keep going :)

So patience you have all had for 2 weeks now-- at least 2 weeks, and I have started from the Scarlet Letter Dona Dorothea or Double Dee for short.

There are a bunch of us who think this sampler is simply outstanding, and had to start her ASAP!!!!! So here she is, my start on Double Dee and I am soooo excited to work on her as well.

Started on the top right corner, the colors are exquisite (of course) and I would love to take a few days and just sit and stitch on her. So, I have a few smokin' hot girls waiting in the wings, waiting to be stitched on, waiting to be ooohed and aahhed on. So, turns will have to be made, and a lesson in sharing. I am not sure how to go about those lessons yet, I want to stitch on them all NOW!!! (Stamping my foot, hands on my hips) LOL!!!!!!!!!!! (This doesnt happen right? No fighting?!!! :) )
I am going to finish Fruit of the Spirit for sure next, then I have to pull out Rosina, Double Dee, Ann, Ann, Susan, Elizabeth and line them up in a row, and see who is going to be next in the running. I would love a rotation, but with these girls, I just cant stitch on them for just 1 night. So maybe a weekly rotation could work........ We shall see.
Thanks for all your wonderful comments on my last post-- it always makes my day :)

I can't believe it is August 2nd

2011-08-02T23:51:00.000-04:00

Where oh where is the time going Ladies and Gentlemen. I dont feel like I am getting that much done, although I am having a great time. Stitching has been a bit scattered, new summer starts and renewed interests in past summer loves.

I have started this post thinking about what I could share with you all, because it has been over 2 weeks now since the last post. So, I have been working on Fruit of the Spirit, which I realize now I do not have a picture of her, and I am too lazy right now to take any updated ones, so we shall wait for those. But the good news is, I just have to fill in the grass on the bottom, and the words on the very bottom. Sounds like a piece of cake right? Maybe a cupcake??!!

I do have some pics on Rosina Payne for you to see. I had wanted to get her finished this summer, but now, not knowing at this time if that is going to happen. I have Elizabeth Mears circling, getting jealous of all the time I have been spending with Rosina. The perils of jealousy :) I do want to spend my fair share of time with both of them, but there is a new girl in town.... I am going to wait to tell you more about her.......although we find her very, very exciting. She will be ready to make her debut in a few days. Along with the other girls, lets just say there is alot of fighting for the mirror.

I have been making serious progress on the border, and within 3 nights had it finished. I am onto one of the tree motifs right now.

Sorry the pics are a bit dark, and are not as good as I would like them to be, but bad pics are better then no pics right?

I am loving every stitch that she has-- not looking forward to the over 1 verse I have to do, but I am trying to figure out the best way to tackle that, and have heard the best answer so far..... do one thread length at a time, so that it isn't left for the end, and then I can mix it up in between motifs. Brillant :)

So, I will get back to her tonight, I cant wait to share with you the newbie in the bunch. Trust me, she is going to be worth the wait!!!

It is so peaceful

2011-07-20T12:32:00.002-04:00

A few weeks back, a few of my friends and I went to a local cemetery to look at the tombstones. We went around 7pm, which was a perfect time to go just as the sun was slowly going down. Ordinarily, this may sound very strange to folks, about walking around a cemetery, just to look at headstones, but our fascination with subject has gotten the better of alot of us.
The interesting thing about being there, amongst tall old trees, hundreds of headstones is that it was so quiet. There wasnt a sound but rustling trees above us. There was about 4 others with us in this quiet place, you couldnt hear them though.
This cemetery was an older one, not as old as it could have been, but old enough to house war generals. The variety of tombstones was beyond what I had expected to see-- and I think my friends were surprised as well. I had a general idea of what to expect-- but being my first time 'not at a funeral' my eyes had been opened.

This headstone was one of the most bizarre ones I have ever seen. I am sure there is a variety under the sun-- when making the selection for your loved ones marker for his or her final resting place. There were headstones with actual pictures of the loved ones image. A tiny bit creepy (no offense to anyone) but what we were looking for was more along the lines of these:

This headstone was the only one that I saw with a 3-d angel on it.

This one has a tiny lamb on the top, looking over a small child.

There were more children then I had expected, mostly short lived-- a week old. Others were children from 1 family-- perhaps from the plague. What was more disturbing is the destruction of some of the headstones-- I cant believe that people can be so disrespectful to the deceased. What a shame, can they rest in peace? I am sure that this happens more often, but not opening my eyes until this night on this was quite the awakening.

As the sun was setting, we walked over to one corner and I saw a black cat headed my way. Interesting right? If I want to read into it I can, but I know he was coming from the neighboring yard and he came right over.

My friends spotted a tombstone that I believe was the most interesting of the night. They were excited to switch places with me looking at the cat, to looking at this

Can you believe this? You wonder how close to this carved stone does this couple really look like?
"Here we lie by consent after 57 years, 2 months and 2 days"

I have some shots that I have not posted, but up close of their eyes. Looking at those pics long enough, those folks are looking right back at you, and they are at peace. I know these pics may be too much for some, but those are way too much, and this is a friendly blog :)

Not knowing what the evening was going to hold, I would say it was a success. I am interested in going to another cemetery again soon, and look at the stones, wondering about these people. What did they do in their lives, how many children did they have, where is the rest of their families, was anyone a stitcher, if so where is their handwork? If you ever have the chance to visit a cemetery, outside of a funeral, it is not weird, it is very calming, very peaceful and I highly recommend it.

They're Baaack!

2011-07-14T11:59:00.005-04:00

Super exciting---- yesterday I picked up my framed beauties!!!! A few weeks back I decided to have 3 of my Quaker pieces done. I chose simple frames for all three, yet each one complements each piece just beautifully and I am THRILLED with them (as usual!!) So first up is Mary Wigham.

She was stitched on 40ct Pearled Barley Lakeside Linen with a variety of NPI silks-- close to the original colors, but different :) I started and finished Mary in 2009.

Beatrix Potter is next stitched on 40ct Vintage Porcelain Lakeside Linen with Coffee Bean Gloriana with a hint of Quartz Belle Soie. (I started and finished her in 2009 as well). Since the fabric was so pale, a suggestion was made to use a darker liner and the color pops and the hint of quartz is exquisite. I can't be more pleased.

Last but not least, is Moulin Rouge by Long Dog Samplers. CAN YOU EVEN???? This beauty is by far the largest piece I have ever had framed, and I will tell you now, it will be the last-- finished frame size is almost 30" x 30"!!!!!!!!! Unbelievable right? Stitched this gal on 35ct R & R Linen-- I forget the name along with a combo of WDW threads. It is STUNNING. Along with the classic look that I know I achieved with this piece, along with the frame, I am sooooo excited!! She was worth the wait-- started in 2007 and finished in 2009.

So a few things learned in this post are: that from now on-- the large pieces of course (and of course the small pieces) must be stitched on 40 or 45ct linen. And, FYI on the blank spots on my samplers-- they are not really blank-- but names have been removed to protect the innocent :)

I look forward to hanging these gals up in the near future-- when I have the most perfect spot for them. I did drop off a few more to be framed, so in a few more weeks, I will have more to share with all of you. I wish all of you could see them in person!

So Much Fun (Picture Heavy)

2011-07-11T12:42:00.000-04:00

Time is flying by. I think this summer is going faster then last summer. How can that be? Too much fun I guess could be half the problem. The other half is debatable-- there are so many options. Last week was July 4th and I wanted to share some pics of the Rodeo my husband and I went to. Neither one of us had been to one before, but I knew that it was going to be exciting.

The rodeo lasts for 4 days, and we went on the last day. It is also a carnival for the kids, and boardwalk games for both the big and small kids. There is food and snacks, and all kinds of treats to be had. There are vendors selling leather goods and cowboy hats-- which by the end of the night decided it would be great fun to have a pair of boots and a hat. No, I didnt buy either-- I will need some help from my friends for that shopping trip :) But, we arrived around 5:30pm and the show started at 7:30pm, so we had some time to walk around and look at the bulls, and do some people watching. Wow, most everyone was dressed to the hilt in their western wear. It was so cool to see!

We stopped in and had a cool beverage, before the show. Looks like it was a good idea!!!

So went into the arena around 7, to watch the Rodeo queens walk around the stadium in all their festive gear. All 10,000 of us stood and sang the national anthem-- it was so cool to see everyone so excited to stand and pay tribute to our country-- especially on the 4th of July.

The show began with a kick (lol) and we were off to 4 hours of great entertainment. I was so amazed to see these bulls and broncos whip around and through off these cowboys, lasso calfs, etc. etc. There was barrel races, pig races, it was all here.

The night ended with a bang-- and it was soo worth it :)

The rest of the week was busy as usual, with more fun and friends and stitching. I got some more stitched on Fruit of the Spirit- and it is really coming along nicely.

So many colors in this tiny little piece, I feel like I am changing colors more than stitching! But, if I would discipline myself for 2 solid days, I could have it done already-- I get to busy carried away looking at all the other projects I want to stitch, or actually working, or playing Frisbee. It will get done when it gets done right? Elizabeth Mears is really coming along nicely too-- the top zig-zag border is almost complete. I didnt have one of the colors, and I started to panic-- as if I couldnt go on with out it. But, my LNS had the color in stock and the rest is history.

This weekend was a great one as well, and I will have to tell you about it next time, for all of you still trying to download these pics in this post!! I know the next one will be similar. Let the summer weekends continue!!!!!!!!!!

Its official

2011-07-01T11:24:00.000-04:00

Happy July 1st! How exciting this weekend is going to be. The true kick off to summer. You know what happens in summer time dont you?! Same as what happens every summer. Fun, friends, BBQ's, warm of the sun and of course new summer loves. Summer loves for me are new project starts. There have been a few kitted up already, but the one that was a must start, that I was teasing all of you earlier this week, is Elizabeth Mears from Queenstown Samplers. I know that many of you have already been enjoying her beauty for some time, but better late then never.

With an exquisite conversion to overdyed silks, I started Elizabeth on Vintage Pecan Butter 40ct. What a great choice for her.

The colors just sing on this piece and I have made some progress on Tuesday night when I started her. I did take note yesterday that the colors chosen of course are so similar to many of my projects, I know she was meant to be started. It is amazing the secret calls that plague you at night when these projects are dying to be stitched.....to come out into the light of day and be enjoyed for many many hours.

Isnt she beautiful??!!! The top shade of blue is the next shade for the zig-zag row and I can hardly wait to see it stitched. When I started her a few nights back, I was desperate to get many colors in, but I also wanted to see the size of her, so I finished the top band after the 3rd color was placed in the bottom row. I just love her :)

This weekend many of us are celebrating Independence Day with BBQ's, and Fireworks. I assure you, there will also be great amounts of stitching going on. I look forward to a long weekend, of fun and excitement, you never know what lies ahead of you.

Have a safe and happy weekend :)

Across the Finish Line

2011-06-27T11:11:00.000-04:00

Happy Monday! What a great week it has been. Today hopefully will start another great one off, and end with a great picnic and some fireworks :) I wanted to share something I finished before Bramble and the Rose a few weeks back. This was a secret project that my friend suggested we do with some of the Fibers to Dye For that we acquired several of these fabulous silks back in November. She came up with the great idea to stitch up a project using colors from Amy Mitten.
I actually chose a project in my Crazy January Start to do because I had wanted to stitch this piece and then it helped in my starts as well, and now, another finish. Yesterday we did the unveiling of the projects we chose to stitch. She chose fabulous Jane Withers from Plum Street Samplers and I chose Threads of Gold- Mary Corey. Both pieces turned out amazing and I am so excited to show you Mary today.

I do know is that the color I used for the letters is called Evil. Nice right? Other colors used were Autopsy, Morbid, Old Lace, etc., etc., I dont have the list in front of me now, otherwise I would list those also. I just had a great time using these silks, and again, if you havent tried them, they are worth hunting down to add them to your stash. I chose 45ct V. Luna for Mary and I look forward to finding a super cute little frame for her this week. I will have to share that with you too :)

I have also put in a few more stitches into the border of Isabella Johnston

and then I remembered about the other project I was working on with another friend, Fruit of the Spirit also from Plum Street Samplers. I dug it out and added a few more stitches to that one as well.

This is one of 3 houses in this pattern, the furthest one right, and I added in some of the over one into the houses window and door. There are soo many colors in this tiny little project, I am forever switching out the threads. I have chosen a 45ct V. Lakeside for this along with most of the threads called for with a few improvements :) I hope to get more stitched on it this week.
I am almost ready to put some stithes into Dorothy W. the colors have been chosen, and the linen selected from the stash. She is going to be exquisite.
With some small talk, the last few days have been spent (amongst other things!!) putting together another great project-- locating all the pieces to the puzzle, that alot of you have started, and almost finished. I cant give you to much more details just yet, it is only a matter of days before the colors are put to bed and I show you the next beauty.
Enjoy the week :)

One Blue Bird

2011-06-22T16:20:00.000-04:00

Excellent news......another WIP is done :) Well, it was done 2 days ago and my brain was literally all over the place yesterday.

Along with the variety of silk in brown tones, yes, there is One Blue Bird. I used Ltd. Edition Gloriana for the special bird, along with Belle Soie and Florimell on 40ct Vintage Pearled Barley Lakeside. Nice and easy, and another one checked off of the January Crazy Challenge!!!!

You know from alot of my past posts, that we like a good old fashion baked item. Well, whether we bake it or if we buy it, we always like it. So, as promised, I wanted to share this cake I baked on Saturday morning for the picnic we had.

This is the pan from William Sonoma that is in the shape of an 'oreo' cookie, however, I switched it up a bit and made it a vanilla creme cookie cake. WOW!!!!!!!!!!! Was it good. It was gone in no time. It is pretty big the cookie cake, about 12 inches so we all could have a taste or 2 :) I love baking, and to make cakes and things in different shapes is always great fun.

So digging back into the challenge bin, I came up with a few others that I want to work on, and again, these WIPs might be sidetracked by new starts (i.e. Dorothy Walpole) until then.....this is what I had in my hands last night:

Isabella Johnstone from SANQ Summer 2010 using 45ct vintage lentil (I think), along with the called for Belle Soie silks. Laying next to one of my gorgeous new project bags (I will have to take some more pics of those later). Interesting enough the finished size of my Isabella is going to just be a smidge larger in length/width then One Blue Bird on 40ct. I cant get enough of this 45ct, it all just looks so cute in this size! If you have never tried it, it is worth it. I know a friend of mine has started her first piece on 45ct (the new one in the SANQ Summer 2011 ?? magazine with all the great color-- I forget the name right now) she is doing a FANTASTIC job on it, and actually admits to liking it alot!!!! Not as bad as she thought that is for sure. I cant wait to see her progress on it. It doesnt take long to get adjusted to it.

Summer is here and the heat is on. No complaints-- just crack open a nice refreshing beverage and pick up your stitching. What could be better??!!!!

Classic :)

2011-06-22T00:16:00.000-04:00

So this past weekend my Sister and Husband were over and we were chatting about some great items on youtube that were fun to see. Some of my favs that I mentioned to them were the best of Justin Timberlake, Will Farrel (of course!!) SNL skits, that no matter how many times I watch them, I laugh. Good right? I think so :)

My sister mentioned one that I thought I would share with all of you, normally I dont do these things, but this one is Classic. Make sure that you have your sound ON :)

The Bramble and The Rose

2011-06-20T10:33:00.001-04:00

Happy Fathers Day to all of you great Dads-- I spent yesterday with my Dad, and later in the evening, went and saw his Dad who is 89. Simply amazing right?! We had a picnic on Saturday with my Sister and her Husband and as usual, had a blast. It was great to see them, and share a few hours together out of all our busy schedules. I will have to share some of the good eats tomorrow with all of you :)

I am proud to say I finally finished The Bramble and The Rose by Ink Circles. What a difference a few weeks make. Well, and putting in stitches when ever there was a pause. I was so desperate to get this one finished, I was even stitching on the way to work in the car, and late into the night. I finished it on Friday night and couldnt be more excited!!!! I think this one has been over 2 years in the making :)

So this beauty is stitched on 40ct Meadow Rue Lakeside with overdyed silk from a Friend. Isnt it GORGEOUS!!!!!!! Very different from my usual sampler routine, but a fabulous addition. Tracy did a great job designing this one :) I am looking forward to the frame this summer for sure.
I completed another piece over a week ago, but that one will have to make its blog debut next week or so. My friend and I decided to stitch a design using Fibers to Dye for, and I am positive they are both great. We havent shown each other the finished pieces yet, nor do we know what they look like but it is only a matter of days.............I hope!!! I cant wait :)

I did pick up from the January Crazy challenge One Blue Bird by Goode Huswife, and I should have this one wrapped up later today.

I think the finished size on 40ct is somewhere near 5 x 7 size, but I am not sure. A nice easy one. I am fired up about these finishes, and looking forward to a few more this summer..... But it all depends, on how many starts there are too!!!!!! LOL there are always summer starts.

My parents have a family of deer that travels through the yard every night, and it was fun to capture this one last night. I think there are usually 6 or 7 of them, along with a gorgeous red fox. Good luck catching him in pics, he doesnt usually last that long for you to run and grab the camera. You never know though right?

It is my Mothers Birthday today---Happy Birthday Mom!!! Also, another friend of mine-- her birthday is today as well-- Happy Birthday to you too!!!!!

Until next time!

So many things

2011-06-06T12:41:00.002-04:00

Thanks for being so patient!!!! I know I have not posted in nearly a month, but you know what happens.....LIFE! So many busy days at work, a few birthdays-- and so many parties! First up, no, I have not finished my Bramble and the Rose, however, she is getting closer :)

I also got my Mermaid and the Sea by Examplars of the Heart framed up. So many options for a frame, but I just stuck with the basics, (what else is new!) and I think it turned out great.

I have been having a hard time resisting all the new goodies at the LNS......

Belle Soie, Florimel, new SANQ, of course linen!!!! Also, see the 3 thread balls in the pic? On Friday, my friend asked me if I had tried out the new Valdani silk, I told her I never heard of it before. So, I had to take some home. I am anxious to try it out, there are some great colors available. All silk is not created equal, but I am always happy to give a newbie a try :)

On Friday night, after a few amusing texts, I pulled out my Sanctuary project from the Drawn Thread. I finished up the letters on the bottom left, and powered out some trees. Of course, the color in the pic is awful, but I am stitching this on 40ct V. Pear Lakeside along with a variety of silks. In person, the colors are exquisite.

My Husband and I picked up a set of tennis rackets at goodwill and some tennis balls this weekend, and decided to start playing tennis again. It has been a long time since we have played, but no time like the present to start exercising again. We went down to the local school, and made use of the courts for an hour. It was great fun-- and we are going to go again today.

After coming home yesterday and finishing up odds and ends, the laundry, the dishes, the cleaning out, I decided a great way to reward ourselves for doing such a great job with our new exercise program, and the chores.......

that cupcakes were an order :)

Enjoy your day, and thanks again for all of you who stick with this blog-- even though I have been away for sooooo long.

Happy Monday

2011-05-09T12:15:00.004-04:00

I hope that all of you Mothers had a super day yesterday!! From what I have read from some of my favorite blogs, there was great fun to be had!! Excellent :) I know that my Mother had a great time, my Sister and her Husband went over to the house and brought her- her favorite pie......Chocolate Mousse.

I was out of town this week and was able to spend some time with my Father & Mother-in-Law, which is always great fun. We had a big family party early on in the week, with about 45 of our brother and sister in laws, and all the nieces and nephews, and their kids too. Wow, amazing how many there were of us, and that wasnt even all of them!!! Huge family my Husband has.....so nice, everyone just loves getting together, enjoying each other and visiting for a few hours, and they all live in the area and visit often. Still, they get excited to get together again. How can you complain about that?!

On Saturday I was invited to my nieces bridal shower, who is getting married this coming week. I was excited to go shopping and check out all of the goodies she had registered for at Target. You gotta love Target, they have a great selection of household items. I bought her plates, glasses and silverware. On the way home I was talking about the wrapping to my MIL and decided I was going to wrap it like a wedding cake. Now, unfortunately Target nor Box-mart had wedding paper. Can you imagine? White is not wedding paper to me...... wedding paper has bells, brides, or beautiful tone on tone flowers. Very elegant. They had tons of birthday paper, and tons of baby shower paper, (lets not get ahead of ourselves!!!! LOL) With no time to spare, we chose some fun paper that would work.

I was so excited to wrap these up, the men were out on errands, and we had papered the entire family room. Paper and ribbons and tulle everywhere. How fun right? I was thrilled the way it turned out. The downfall was that it was super heavy, and doing my best to keep them all together was pretty interesting. The morning of the shower the men loaded up the goodies in to the backseat of the car, and I put a seatbelt on mine!!!!! LOL. My MIL bought her a microwave and mixer, so you know the back seat was filled up. Off we went to the shower and it was an open house sort of bridal shower, people came and went. Gifts were opened and goodies were had. Lots of laughing, which I always love to hear. For me, there isnt much laughter going on, I wish there was more, but I am always so involved with work, and definitely enjoyed all of it this week.

I got in some stitching time this weekend too. Amazing right? Here is my Bramble and the Rose......

Alot of progress was made, I am keeping my fingers crossed for this week, but I am back at work so I am not going to hold my breath!!! LOL. It sure is beautiful, my Sister-in-Law suggested I make a pillow out of it, while that is a great idea, I am not sure I will go that route. I am usually a 'frame' type of gal.

Almost 2 years ago, I posted about some cookie cutters that my Grandmother had on her wall, ever since I can remember and was desperate for information. 2009 cookie cutters if you want to see the original post. But my Husband was in the middle of now-where (center of Kansas) a few weeks back at an antique store and found this for me:

We have been on the hunt for these gems for 7 years. Looking and looking. They are solid aluminum, weigh about 3 pounds and they are replicas of old gingerbread cookie cutters from the Virgina Metalcrafters in Williamsburg VA. This is simply amazing. Apparently the woman at the antique shop, said that just the night before my Husband had come in, she found it tucked away, like someone had hid it to come back for it. She found it and hung it front and center. Sure enough, it was meant to be. When he came back, he said "I bought you something.......oh yeah?.........yes, one of those aluminum molds we have been looking for, like Grandmas" I had 1 of the 2 I was looking for. I AM SO EXCITED to have this, it even came with the original gingerbread recipe they sold with it on the back. I immediately googled to find more information on the item (It is the same one at grandmas, but you dont dare take it off the wall to inspect.......) and sure enough, I found the mate I needed online. I couldnt believe the luck. Within 3 weeks, I had both of these Gingerbread cookie cutters, just like Grandma, my Fathers mother. (A few posts back, I visited my other Grandmother, my Mothers mom)

There are a handful of things that stick out in her home, that grab me and I have fond memories everytime I see them. With 7 children in her family, I am not sure my name is on any of these items, so I went ahead and got them myself. Just as good. Her home is so classic and timeless, and when I see these treats, I remember visits at her house like it was yesterday. M & M's in the candy jar, samplers on the wall, baking every week-- a fresh baked cake or pie would always be there on Sunday afternoons, waiting for us to visit. Homemade applesauce, canned jam. To run in the yard, to chase bunny rabbits, to view the gorgeous azaleas blooming in the spring. Grandma is 83 now, and just as young as she was years ago. She is a classic woman, one who could have easily gone to the royal wedding, and fit in like a glove. I look forward to seeing her again soon :)

Thanks again to all of you who read my blog-- who leave comments and those who just enjoy reading it, it means the world to me. I love connecting with all of you.

Have a wonderful week!

Scattered

2011-05-04T12:01:00.002-04:00

Another week and a half has gone by and not much has gotten done on the homefront of stitching. I mentioned last week that I was going to take some time off this week from both work and activities.....but without working, I feel like I am busier then ever!!!!! How does that happen? I was able to catch up on the laundry, and do a little spring cleaning in the basement. But other then that the time has flown by and before I know it, it is time for bed.

I have been all over the place as far as stitching, I did work on Sunday for a few hours, and when I got back, I pulled alot of stash out, sat on the floor and spread it out, reviewing alot of great items. I wanted to work on every piece that I started on in January, but I know that 50 stitches a night, nothing was going to ever get done. So I pulled out a few pieces that had some potential of being completed, and also worked on 2 buddy projects-- those I will share at a later time.

But, what I am happy to share with you today.... are 2 great projects, screaming to be done.

This is a small oldie but goodie from Sheepish Designs called American Beauty. Stitching on 32ct Raven from Birds of a Feather (I think Raven) with similar cotton overdyes to match the picture. It called for SNC and even for such a small cute project, I couldnt see spending the $$ on 6 + colors so I adjusted them to GA and WDW. I think it is turning out terrific.

Next up is Ink Circles Bramble and the Rose, stitched on 40ct Meadow Rue Lakeside with silk gifted from my Friend. I just love the color combo for this piece. Every way I have seen this design stitched up, it looks fabulous. I have seen it done in 1 color, 2 color and even 3 different colors. All amazing. I look forward to stitching on this piece and finally putting it to bed. I think I have been working on this for over 2 years. Yes, 2 years.

Sorry for such horrid pics today, I slung them both over the couch and took these pics, I really wanted to update this blog, and have 100 things to do today, and no time for ironing.

Some of you have seen the changes that have been taking place on the design side of this blog, and over the weekend I played around with the creme, black and yellow background. I liked it, but not really...... So, I have this beauty up and I really like it. So, for a while I will see how it goes. It takes so much time for me to adjust just a simple background, because then I have to go and adjust all the colors on the blog, so it all blends perfectly. I suppose that is no surprise, knowing my stitching projects.

I have seen the sun for the last few days and I am enjoying it. Still colder, and I am not really sure it is May 4th, feels like March.

So many great things this week, my favorite is the Royal Wedding, I know, we have read and seen and heard about it for so long now, but I wanted my 2 cents out there as well. "Just Exquisite" . Kates dress was so unbelievable, and that wedding impressive. I didnt get up at the crack of dawn, but when I got up and watched some of the feed and videos, I did well up. I had tears of joy for sure. I just love weddings, especially when no detail is missed, and you know they know how to throw a party. Simply breath-taking. I would have loved to be on the street watching them drive by. Oh well, what can you do?!

So another week half done and I better get going. I have been enjoying all the progress on your blogs that I am continually inspired. Thank you for all of that!

Have a Happy Wednesday.

Cold, but still Better

2011-04-25T09:25:00.001-04:00

Hopefully this week was the last of the 'cold' we are going to see for a while. I am soo anxious for the warmer weather. Bring on the heat already!!!!!! The flowering cherry, pear, magnolia, dogwood trees dont know weather to bloom or not. For some of you, you have been enjoying some of these most beautiful trees for a while. I am jealous!! I have been missing the sun now for most of this past week, all but 1 day was pouring rain. Today the sun is out and it is still cold. I am telling you, it is time for a vacation to the islands!!!!! LOL.

I have been working on a variety of things over the past week, mostly Peace. It is coming along better then I thought, and I am more excited about it this week, then I was last-- GOOD right?! Have you seen the size of this beauty?! I have bounced around on the page I was working on, just to get some variety in. I am looking forward to another few weeks of Peace. (The colors look pretty good in this pic today-- and the linen too :))

I have a few other WIPS I pulled out this week, got some stitching done on some of those, but I am too far behind this morning to take pics of those, perhaps next week.

Thank you to all who read and commented on my last post-- about my great weekend at Grandmas. I appreciate you taking the time to share in the fun. She is a great lady and I look forward to many more visits :)

Hope everyone had a Happy Easter-- I know I did!!!

When I woke up

2011-04-19T10:43:00.000-04:00

I saw this outside my window yesterday.

When is it going to stop?!!!! I cant believe it--April 18th. 3 inches of the white stuff all over the place and coming down for a few more hours. It was cold, windy and with a mixture of sleet and snow.

Overall, my weekend was fabulous!!!!! My Husband and I spent the last few days with my Grandmother, which is such a treat. She is 81 years old and is doing better then ever. It has been tough for many years-- dealing with cancer hasnt been easy on any of us, but last week she got the best report we could ever hear--Cancer free!!!!!!!! How wonderful!!!!!!!!!! So many prayers and so many people looking out for her, it is such a blessing to hear such positive news. When Grandma knew about us coming a few weeks ago, she of course couldnt be more pleased. She went and got some of our favorite late night snacks-- ice cream, cookies and even baked a cake. You know when visiting Grandma, food is always top priority-- especially when visiting with relatives, breakfast, lunch and supper --going out for it is the norm. For me, I dont eat out all that much, especially 3 big meals in one day, although every meal time couldnt be full of more fun and laughter. For me, it all balances out. We had a great time, seeing everyone again. We took Grandma to an antique store that she had wanted to go in, and it was great fun to hear her say-- "I have that, I used to have that or so and so had that!" Finding a few goodies is always fun-- and the hunt is the best part. What is around the next corner, it could be it!

She has been crocheting afghans for all the great-grand children and it is amazing to see the pile. Each one thought out for each child. She is whipping right along with them--only has a few more to make before Christmas, I think she is going to make her goal :). She is working on one of those huge floral cross stitch projects-- I cant think of the name right now, but the flowers are so life-like, one of the iris' she is stitching and has been working on it for a while, lost her place so put it away. I was thrilled to help get her back on track and perhaps after the afghans are done, she will pick it back up. It was fun showing her some of my WIPs, and she just was floored over the small counts-- and what count is this? 40. This? 45. Ooh, and she'd lean back on the sofa with amazement. I have never seen such fine linen- she said. I didnt stitch much while there-- really hard to start and stop in between all the eating!!!!

She has a nest of Duck eggs right outside her garage door, which is so amazing to see, however where is the mother?!

Grandma got a new canary and boy does it love to sing! She is thrilled with her new friend and it brings her such joy.

To see her light up each time we came back to the house and run over to him, they had a special chat. Then she would come back into the kitchen, put on another pot of coffee and say, want some cake? LOL, we just got off the breakfast table!!! Classic. We were sad to leave her early last night, and am looking forward to the next visit with her soon.

Last week I did finish a small project-- Be Joyous by Homespun Elegance. I used the called for silk with 40ct Vintage Pearled Barley. It was a great little project and one down in the WIP pile.

I have been super busy with work, but managed to get in some stitches on Peace. I think I am going to work on this for a while, and see what I can do about this HUGE WIP. I am in love with the colors, and definately looking forward to progress. If I dont open up the sheet I am working on, it doesnt scare me as much. I am going to work on it page by page. It is too big to do the whole border at once, and I want it to line up in the worst way!!!! LOL-- who doesnt want their borders to match up?!!!!

The top pic is more the true color of the 40ct Sienna Night Lakeside I am stitching on. With the miserable weather we are having, it was hard to get a clear shot, so the bottom pic is under a bright light. I am already bummed, tonight I have to work late, so I dont think much stitching will take place, but there is always tomorrow right?

Thanks for all your great comments on Ichabod Seabury, the color is fabulous and I hope some of you give it a try sometime!!!!!!

Until next time! Happy Stitching everyone :)

Finally!!!!

2011-04-07T09:26:00.002-04:00

It has been a long time coming, it seems like forever. Ichabod Seabury is Finished!!! I cant believe how long it took to fill in the blocks around the wording. E-TER-NAL. LOL. I finished him last night around 11:30 and told my husband that I wasnt coming to bed until he was done. Thank goodness it wasnt too late.

For reference, this is from Primitive Needle (We are all going to miss Lisa and her great designs!) using the called for Swamp Linen and Belle Soie Threads. I wonder what the frame will look like?!!

So another WIP down in the bucket and a new day has started. What shall the next WIP be? I have taken pics of the next 2 WIPS colors, both projects have been started-- I cant let myself start a new one this year just yet.......I promise you, that I will though :) It is only a matter of time or WIP lists!!! Anyway, both sets of colors are all silks, a variety of them and I am excited to get my hands into them. The biggest question is which one to dive into first?!!

Thanks to all who visit my blog regularly, and those who stumble apon it and enjoy it as well. I love receiving comments and kind thoughts from all of you. I hope to continue to keep it interesting and entertaining. Most of all, help with the enabling!!!

No Foolin'

2011-04-01T20:00:00.000-04:00

April 1st today, and I have some progress pics and some finds I got at an antique shop this week. First up, progress pic of Ichabod-- which the filling in of the words is taking forever. I wanted to be done with him last weekend, and here it is another whole week has gone by and still, it isnt done. Well, if I wasnt out wandering the streets and taking in all the local antique shops, perhaps I would have more to show.

No complaints though, I am further then last weekend! I am really enjoying the fabric too, I cant imagine at this point what I would ever use this color again for, and I cant say never either.

Up first are 2 super finds, the bottom pair from Germany $4.00 and the top with marking Solingen on it for only $2.00!!!! Can you even. Plus, they look great on Swamp :)

The other great find was this enormous pewter thimble (over 2" tall)- which on the side reads "Only a Thimble Full" and with some research, it is really a shot glass!! I added a quarter to the side to show you perspective. No Foolin' !!!!!!!

A new week

2011-03-28T09:33:00.000-04:00

Anyone watch the classic movie "Office Space" lately? It is one of my favorites-- I even own a Red Swingline Stapler. One of the classic lines in the movie is "Looks like somebody has a case of the Mondays". Well, that is me today. Wow, what a difference from last week right?! The weather has turned cold again and I am not a fan :(. When is it going to get warm already!! I think I need a vacation.

I did some stitching this weekend, but not enough to finish another WIP though! I have progress pic to show you.....

Amazing the color of the fabric how different it looks from the last post. But, I am liking it more and more. I finished the top, and will spend the next few days finishing the bottom. I am pretty sure I know the next WIP I am going to stitch on next, I was chatting with a friend this weekend, and I think I am convinced, although I will keep you all in suspense until I get Ichabod done.

Back to the grind-- I hope tomorrow is better!!!!!!

Friday Finish

2011-03-25T10:14:00.003-04:00

Isnt it great to go into another weekend, with a finish under your belt?! Here is Anne Wells. This is a Birds of a Feather pattern, and I chose to stitch Anne on 36ct Barn Owl Birds of a Feather Linen with Weeks Dye Works Threads. I think she turned out great!

Soft and subtle the colors, which you know is perfect for me. The best part is........I am down another WIP!!! I was excited to read that most of you dont like too many, although I was also excited to read that most of us are in the same boat!!!!! LOL. But such is life. So many wonderful choices. I am having such fun with these either way, WIPs or Not, playing with the stash is great fun. I am collecting quite the pile of threads that have to be put back into their homes and it is great fun to actually be using this stash I have!!!!

I finished Anne early enough to breakout the next project to be finished-- Ichabod Seabury. The Swamp Linen is the color called for, is so far out of the box for me, but I just love it. Crazy right?! It is a great design, and I look forward to finishing it this weekend. Think positive right?!! Progress pics on Monday for sure.

Thanks for all the great words of encouragement on the WIPS I have chosen to get myself involved in :) I am looking forward to a great year of FINISHES!!!!! Yeah!!

Hope everyone has a great weekend :)

Heeeeeres Olga!!!!

2011-03-23T09:56:00.001-04:00

Here is my finish of Olga by Plum Street Samplers. I chose to use the called for Crescent colors, but stitched her on Lakeside 40ct Vintage Lentil. Now I have to find Boris from the stash in the basement, and stitch him up :) How strange to have really worked on such a completely opposite pattern from Maria, different feel all together, with the linen, the cotton threads, and a CAT!!!!!!!!

But she is cute and with Boris by her side someday, I think the pair will be lovely. Add her to the drawer of stitched pieces and move on to the next one. I took out about 10 of my WIPS last night and tried to figure out the best way to tackle them. I am not sure I want to stitch then in order of Crazy January Starts, (I blew that a few finishes ago already!) but there is one thing I cant stand. WIPS. Believe me, I had the most fun in January starting and stitching on new projects, and I am sure that I would be up for it again, but the result of 25 project bags lying all around with snippets of stitching in them, drives me CRAZY!!!!!!! I would prefer to have less then 5 WIPS at any one time. I would prefer to put my big girl panties on and finish the project then leave it to collect dust.

About 6 years ago........WIPS was something I didnt really have. I had projects, believe me, I had some stash, but they werent all going at once. I always started and finished them. So, along with my new linen love, I was also introduced into it being ok to have WIPS (This is why I am somewhat calm about having over 20 WIPS!!!!!!!! Thank you :) ). I agree that it is ok to have WIPS and my Friends and I both love starting-- as many of you do. Isnt it the best when kitting up a NEW PROJECT!!!! WOW, what a thrill and to start it, and to go wild with stitching it. As much as I like the stash collecting and having start-i-tis, I love finishing projects. Now, for me finishing is just getting it stitched up. I am the worst 'finisher' of smalls, and framing gets done when there is extra $$$ (I am to frame picky!)

The the long and the short of this, is that I need to get this WIP pile down quite a bit. I keep running through I ideas while at work-- (so not to waste precious stitching time at home), how to tackle this WIP problem: finishing smaller projects, then grabbing a BAP and going to town with it, or should I do every other one....... I was thinking too, that the list of 'in order' projects would make me have to finish 'Peace' first before Dutch Beauty, and I am desperate to stitch DB. Believe me, Peace will get done, someday-- sooner then later I hope; but isnt this the fun part of stitching-- my Friend said, this way you can stitch on something you like, at all times. If you get bored with this, go to that one. And so on and so on.

So by tonight, I will have to make a decision about what to stitch on next out of the pile. I feel also that I need to get it down in order to really get going on another new one or two I am drooling over!!!!!!! We will all have to wait and see.

Maria's Dechado

2011-03-21T10:16:00.001-04:00

Starting off with another great sunny morning, starting off another week. I have to start off straight away with a finish-- well she is 99.9% done :)

Isnt she just beautiful?! I have to clip the threads yet in the aztec stitch, (then she will be done). It is hard enough for me to cut plain linen let alone cut into the hard work I have just completed!! LOL. I am getting up the nerve and I will keep you all posted. But for now, this is what Maria looks like. I am over the moon in how she turned out-- and for all of you reading the start of Maria on January 1st-- few stitches, then picking her up again on February 1st-- until now, have heard me complain on more then 1 occasion. It wasnt the design, it was at first the threads- working with Soie de Paris for the first time, the threads were a bit more slippery. I have friends that have used this thread for sometime and I have never heard them complain, so why not? I ended up to liking them, very much so, that I would be open to using them in a future project.

Most of the complaining came from the over 3 section on the right hand side. I have never done that much ripping out in my life, so it was very frustrating. The satin stitch, once getting into a rhythm that worked for me, went quickly. The aztec stitch was the part I feared the most. This was the only thing holding me back from finishing Maria, or throwing her the hell out :) All that work, I had to give it a try at least right? So last week, I think Wednesday night, the light went on, and I figured it out. I didnt think I would be able to get it done for weeks, seemed to hard, to much to concentrate on, but, in reading the instructions, 'once you get the rhythm down, it is easy going' ta-da!!! (Friday night I didnt work on her, actually worked on Olga from Plum street-- I needed a break, but still wanted to stitch something!) After work on Saturday, and after a quick supper, I picked up Maria and I said to my husband-- this is it. She needs to be put to bed tonight!!!!! Late Saturday night, more like 12:30 am Sunday morning, she was finished. I couldnt be more pleased.

For all the fear of the unknown on the Aztec, it is well worth it and it was actually very easy. I know that there are several who have commented on previous posts that are stitching this piece, and are fearing the Aztec-- dont be scared-- it looks much much harder then it is. You may practice on another piece of linen-- I am not much for practicing and jumped right into starting-- why do it twice! LOL!!!!!

Maria's Dechado by Samplers Remembered along with the supplies can be purchased at your favorite LNS. I chose to stitch Maria with the called for Soie de Paris & with the suggested 45ct Vintage Luna Lakeside Linens. It is worth the hard work-- complaints or not :)

She is definitely one of my favorite finishes, and I thank my Friends for suggesting it. Now, onto celebrating with a nice shot of tequila :)

The Aztec Cometh

2011-03-18T10:53:00.001-04:00

Last night was a very exciting night for me. I finished up the satin stitch on Maria, and I am very pleased with the results.

After 4 or 5 attempts and 4 other varieties of explanations and graphs, I finally figured out the aztec stitch. Now mind you, I am sure that the written instructions in the pattern are just fine, but being a visual person, things do not make the most sense to me when reading a description of go up here and down here and wrap around here. So, with a combination of a few great graphs, I finally did it.

It is not a hard stitch, rather one you must concentrate on each step you make. I tried watching a movie while doing it, and finally had to focus on the task at hand. I know this block will be slow and steady, but I definitely see the end is drawing near. Hopefully this weekend I will be able to get another color or 2 in.

So, here is Maria so far, in all her beautiful glory. I know at first I was skeptical with her, but she has proven herself to be worthy of all the time and frogging and stress!!!

Have a great weekend everyone :)

Off Track

2011-03-14T12:26:00.000-04:00

What a great weekend I had! Such beautiful weather, visiting with friends, family and of course stitching!!!! I have to first let you know that Maria had a back burner seat this weekend, but I have an updated pic for all of you.

She is moving along just beautifully, and for all the fear I had about the satin stitch, it is not as difficult as I was expecting! From the over 3 side, and all the frogging, I would be happy to do the satin stitch again any time. I hope to have the bottom done in the next few days, then it is on to the dreaded aztec stitch!!!!!

So, what did I stitch on this weekend? Well, rather I stitched yesterday-- Let me remind you of where I was on the Quaker Friendship piece--

And this is where I ended last night:

Now-- should explain the title for this blog post!!!! I was planning on stitching in order of starts, but you know how easy that can be adjusted!!!! I had this wip in the same project bag as Maria, and I kept seeing it and seeing it. I figured this weekend it had to be put to bed. This is called the Quaker Friendship by Goode Huswife. Stitched on 36ct Flax Fields by R & R Reproductions along with Coffee Bean Gloriana silk thread. 2 over 2. I always choose 2 strands for 36ct, I prefer the way it looks-- more coverage. I am excited to have another finish out of the crazy January challenge under my belt and 1 less WIP!!!!!! YEAH!!!!!! I might even have another one done this week........ I am keeping my fingers crossed!!!!

Happy Monday :)

Finally, something new!

2011-03-10T00:45:00.000-05:00

Hello to all of you patient readers, it has been a while since this blog has been updated, and while that Hankalicious pic was fun to look at for a bit, it is now time to move on. I have been working slow and steady on Maria, and making some nice progress. I tool these pics late last week and finally have time to share them with you now. I have to take more current pics, but these will have to do for now. I am still concerned with how to proceed with the Aztec stitch (which will fill in the empty rectangle box), but I am positive it will click, and will make sense, and I will have it done in no time.

So far, the most positive thing is, I did not have to rip out this row I am working on. No ripping, can this be possible?!!! For the 2nd time since the top alphabet there is no ripping?! LOL., I can only hold my breath for so long. Murphy sits on my shoulder, and he is alive and well :)

I will try to get more current pics posted in the next day or so.

Everyone is getting their new stash from Nashville, and it is great fun to see all the new starts taking place. I have gotten a great assortment so far, I just finished cataloging it (I am trying not to by duplicates!), and I am looking forward to taking time to look at each item closer. Great new Belle Soie and Gloriana silks, they are fabulous, but arent they always? I am looking forward to starting a few new of these goodies, but after Maria of course!!!

Until next time :)

Hankalicious

2011-02-24T12:59:00.001-05:00

I am so excited about my splurge, I wanted to share it with all of you! Can you even with these Hankalicious??? I dont have any definite plans for them just yet, but the colors are simply exquisite and I just had to have them. My husband says I am spoiled. Yes, I would totally agree!!!!

EDITED: I am sorry-- I forgot to post what the Hankalicious skeins are! Silly me :) They are Gloriana Florimell Colors from Top are Antique Black, Hazelnut and Rosewood.

Moving Along

2011-02-23T13:29:00.000-05:00

Too bad it has been over a week since I have posted and I have made some progress on Maria. I havent touched my stitching this whole weekend-- work has been crazy busy. Without wasting anymore time, I have completed as of last week Friday the over 3 cross stitch side on Maria.

I am thrilled it is done, but yet there is still uncharted territory coming up on the left side!!!! LOL.

I have started the satin stitch on the top left, but I have already ripped that out. So Maria has been grounded for a bit. I need to work on her with a positive attitude. Perhaps this weekend we will see some more progress.

I am looking forward to seeing more Nashville items, there are a few items I am waiting for, perhaps there will be more to tempt me. You never know right?!!!!!!

Valentines Day Update

2011-02-14T13:36:00.000-05:00

Being Valentines Day today, I have the day off, well, I have had the entire weekend off and it has been quite lovely. I did some work early on Saturday, but was able to get in some serious stitching time in the last 2 days. First though, I did get some beautiful white roses from my Husband, which are my favorite. There is something so classic about white roses. Well, you know they are creme, but the most elegant in my opinion.

It has been super busy at work, and this weekend was the first days off I have had in 10 days, and no stitching was taking place. What a bummer, when I was stitching everyday last month. I am not complaining about work at all, I actually love my work, but I need more time for stitching!!

So, let me get going on my progress. I think I have a plan for how I want to tackle my projects started in January. My thoughts have been to work on the the projects in order of the start, until they are complete. Now, lets discuss that I have at least 2 enormous projects, Peace and Dutch Beauty included in those starts and WIPS, so I have to see how the spirit moves me when I get up to those. I will also have to see how the spirit moves me after I finish this bird of a project I am stitching on now :)

This is where I left Maria on January 1st. She was my first new start of 2011 and boy is she a piece of work. I think that the sampler is gorgeous, and the colors are perfect, but I have never in my life done so much frogging. I am telling you, every stinkin row, has had to be ripped out, at least 1 time.

The top 2 rows of Maria are over 2, and the right side is all done over 3, using long arm cross-stitch, which is something I have done before on the Sampler Cove- Thriller piece a few years back. Easy right? I think it is the over 3 that is grabbing my throat and squeezing. I have made some serious adjustments so far with this piece and I think I am going to continue to do so!! Last night, I was finishing up the 4th row you see on the right, and I had to rip out half of it because I forgot 2 stitches. I even us a MAGNET!!!!!! I was ready to throw it the hell out last night for sure. I have been tempted on every blasted row. Why is this so difficult? I cant even imagine why, I take my time, read the pattern, and still screw up. What a pita.

On the postivie overall, Maria will be a beautiful addition to my drawer of completed samplers, someday to frame her, and hang her :) LOL, seriously, I do love the sampler, and I am glad I have chosen to stitch her. I look forward on the horizon, to the next project.

Someplace warm

2011-02-07T21:21:00.000-05:00

Already a week has passed and I have not posted a thing. Well, there isnt much to post about, especially on the stitching front. But, I do have some great pics to share with you all. Warm is where we all want to be right? Well, we decided to go 'warm'. Let me see if I can help you--

Would you like to be out sunning yourself today, like this fellow? Perhaps you are wondering about the angle of this shot, turtles are very skiddish. I tell you, they can sense you coming a mile away, and jump immediately back into the water. However, when it is 78-85 degrees in the Everglades, you might enjoy swimming.... or sunning. It was amazing to try and catch this little guy to take his picture. Many many attempts were made for sure.
Now, what do you think about this guy?

This guy, cool and collected, enjoying a lap around and then shortly after, he too, wanted to enjoy the warm sun.

The bottom pic is my favorite, almost at his level. Relaxing and enjoying the peace and quiet that is in the Everglades. Birds chirping, and warm wind is all you hear. I must also tell you, these pics were taken rather close to him, you can almost watch him breath. It is great fun, to take pictures of nature, fun to get close, but not too close. There is another pic I have that you can really see the size of his teeth, but I am already on the border of frightening some readers, that I didnt want to post those. There is also a huge supply of snakes, beautiful in color also enjoying the sun here in South Florida. What a delightful way to spend a few days. Nice, warm and sunny.

Of course, this is what we watch every night, the most glorious of sunsets. You cant get better then this :)

31st January Project-Start

2011-02-01T12:38:00.000-05:00

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!!!!!!!

30th January Project-Start

2011-01-31T12:34:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Ladies and Gentleman! Happy Monday to all of you :) It was a great weekend, some stitching and alot of adventures. I have to be honest with last nights start, I was a little lazy last night. I am getting a little more preoccupied with my duties of work- instead of projects. (Which is more important of course) My choice for the 30th project this month was from The Essamplaire- MSD 1735 A Nuremberg Sampler.

Where did the laziness come in? I only chose 3 colors so far for this piece, I knew that she was going to get the short end of the stick in the progress department, and also I need to get more silks. The colors as I mentioned before, the good ones anyway, are in high demand for several projects and I didnt feel like rummaging through other starts to see what I would need. I will end up working on the rest of this conversion on my next break from work :). But, to get her going, I did choose the border color and its all that really needed to be decided on. But, I did have 2 pieces of linen I was thinking about for her, and it was between Lakeside Vintage Porcelain and Vintage Maritime White. That is where the blue skein comes in, (in the picture) Iwanted to see what some of the colors would look like on either piece. All the colors I normally choose would look great on either one, but the blue pushed me into choosing Vintage Porcelain. I love love love this color. So very crisp, without being to stark or bright. Creamy enough that the colors pop.

I stitched 4 yards of silk already into the border and added a hint of the 2nd color as you can see. I think the colors are a good start for now. I am thrilled that I dont change my mind too often on colors and choices are made wisely.
So the last post of my challenge will be tomorrow, and I am excited to show you the next and final project for the Crazy Challenge January. I am positive I will have other new starts this year, because that is the nature of this beast. I have chosen the final pattern and the linen, now for another conversion. Do you know how tiring conversions can be?! LOL. It will be worth it. I am glad to have started what I did this year, otherwise they just lay in the drawer, waiting to be chosen year after year. Until tomorrow!!!

29th January Project- Start

2011-01-30T12:12:00.000-05:00

To start off, thanks to all of you who have been commenting on my blog- Isabella is getting quite the attention these days, isnt she going to be something? There are some many of you wanting to stitch her, or who have pulled her out to continue working on her, or walked over to the finished sampler on the wall to gaze at her. I encourage all of you to start her. It is from the Sampler and Antique Needlework Magazine Summer 2010 issue, and there are some out there yet!!! She isnt a large sampler, so it would be great in any count and if you are considering trying a smaller count, she would be a great example to start on. But, Isabella had her day on Friday right?
What about Anne Wells? Who is Anne Wells? I really have no idea who Anne is, but I think her sampler is darn cute. Last night I started Birds of a Feather- Anne Wells. It is an out of print pattern that I have had for a few years. I chose Birds of a Feather Barn Owl 36ct Linen along with the called for WDW threads. I know you are all shocked it is on 36ct--- do you know how stinken' cute she would be on 45??!!!! But, I have all of this linen, and why not use it already. Just because I am obsessed these days with 45, doesnt mean that the other gorgeous colors in larger counts have to take a back seat. Besides, using the larger counts only makes room for more 40 and 45. Not that 'space' is really an issue :)

I have almost the top half done, and it looks and is easy, just the counting in between the letters is frustrating, because they are all thrown all over the place and some are 10 spaces, others are 12 and some even 13. I forget and have to recount several times-- which is the idea, but we were watching the tube and listening also distracts the voice in my head shouting 10. 10 already, dont you listen? 10!!! I am not sure, so I re-count, yes 10. You want it to be right!!!!!! Like the rest of you, HATE ripping out.
Everyone enjoying there weekend so far? Almost February!!! I am looking forward to it for sure :) Have a great day.

28th January Project-Start

2011-01-29T21:56:00.001-05:00

I am so behind schedule again today, but better late then never right! Last night I started Frances B Jones from Scarlet-Letter. I have noticed especially coming down to the wire of new starts, that I have been running out of stash selection for threads and linen; and that I have started to 'share' threads between 2 projects. I would not recommend this if you have to use a large amount of threads, or a larger count fabric- because you will run out. I am using 45ct again, and I am sharing 2 silks- 1 from One Blue Bird- which I think that project I need less then 20 stitches worth, and then the other, 1 shade of pink from Mary Beale. With that one, I think I should be ok because the pink is just used in the flowers, unlike if I had to share greens, that would be another story.

As far as borders go, I like some and dont like others, this one the border is not repetitive at all and I have to constantly check and recheck. Others I can sort of memorize after a few times and have at it. None-the-less, she will be very pretty. Again, a little different then others, but dainty. I am not sure if you can see or not, but there are 2 shades of green and in the leaves a hint of gold.

Hope everyone is enjoying there weekend, I hear snow is on the way for some of you next week :(

27th January Project- Start & Bonus

2011-01-28T13:13:00.000-05:00

Another Friday is upon us already and I am positive the month is going much faster then I ever expected it to go. My last weekend of freedom before I am back to the grind next week. Fortunately, I am back to the grind on February 2nd, so I will have no excuses to get the 31 crazy challenge done and see what insanity waits on February 1st in the stitching department. But lets not rush a good thing we have going here. I have found a few more tricks up my sleeve and look forward to sharing them with all of you in due time :)
Today I have for you 2 things. First, lets talk about what new project I started last night shall we?! Out of the Sampler & Antique Needlework magazine, I have started Isabella Johnson. I have had her kitted up for some time and last night made a slight adjustment on the linen.

I am using the called for Belle Soie Silks and I have opted yet again, for 45ct linen, this time vintage lentil. There is a method to my madness-- if it makes sense or not, it doesnt matter. But my reason is that I would like to stitch the other 2 charted samplers that the pictures are featured along with Isabella, Jane Tindall and Maria Tilley on 45ct too, so why not? This doesnt matter, either way if you stitch them on 28ct or ??? count, because they are all different shapes and sizes anyway........ You can stitch samplers on what ever count linen that gets you going. I am obviously going on 45 :) I acquired a piece of Vintage Lentil the other day, a long a narrow piece. I was looking specifically for long and narrow pieces because I have a VERY hard time cutting my linen. To make that clear, I can cut anything, but the linen, the gorgeous linen, I have a hard time physically bringing myself to doing this, so I try to find pieces that will work in the right color for each sampler. Sometimes, like in this case, it has worked out perfectly.

So you can 'see' my tiny piece of fabric, for most stitchers, this piece you are laughing at me, as tons of room!! Yes, the entire design fits on this piece width wise with no worries. You can see the width is done from the vine those leafs are growing off of. The length isnt an issue at all. Crazy right?! Yes, I live there, and I have been asked along the way, where it is, where does crazy live, because others are interested in joining me there for more adventure. The sampler is fabulous and I am excited to have this one going and someday complete.

Back in the end of November, after Thanksgiving I think, my Husband and I took a small road trip and I need an ez little project to stitch on. So I started Little House Needleworks Mercantile. Easy I said, it is a cute little pattern and perfect for my purpose. I only got so far

on our drive and put it away. Well, we went on another small road trip in the last few days and I have been a busy girl. I got it done and here she is.

I used 40ct ??? with the called for WDW, GA & CC threads and I think it is super cute. You need to have easy ones right? These big jobs that we have going all the time are outstanding, but to finish something, is even better. Especially, because she isnt in my January challenge!!!!! My 2nd finish of the year. BONUS!!!!!

26th January Project- Start

2011-01-27T10:52:00.000-05:00

My project for last night, another oldie- but goodie. I didnt get as far in stitching as some nights, I needed to finish the conversion, and haste makes waste. So I wanted to choose right for another BAP I was going to be starting. This piece, is another one that I have wanted to start for along time (Ok, lets be honest, what percentage of patterns do you have that you havent wanted to start for a long time?????? For me, less then 10%) I want to stitch every thing!! Someone did tell me yesterday that I should go for the year challenge. Ok, that is a great idea, but I think I would have to start posting just pics, because somedays it is really hard to talk about another new project. What else can you say about it? I choose very similar things, how many times do you really want to read gorgeous, beautiful and fabulous??!!! LOL I know, we have read it already for what 25 straight days?! Well, less then a week to go, so bear with my keywords.
I have nothing wrong with starting a million projects, I do however enjoy the end result of completion, and believe me, some love to start and some hate to start. I love the start, hate the middle, and love the end. As much as I love pulling my threads, I enjoy putting them away looking all wild from massive abuse from the last how many ever months/years they have been in a project bag.
I am having a little more of a tough time with the projects that I have still in that bin I showed you on day one, some I really would rather not work on--just yet. So maybe my percentage went up to 25%, although I am very happy to have some of these patterns, I am not in the mood- if you know what I mean. I have to smack myself around for the next few days to continue on the challenge with beautiful patterns, not let it slide downhill, (start off with a bang, and end with a fizzle!) I cant let that happen. So, we shall see. I dont want to fall off the wagon just yet :)

Here is Sarah Farr Floore - from Samplers and Such. I think I have had this pattern now for 2 years. A friend had recommended this designer to me and there are some great reproductions; something about Sarah called me. So I had her ordered in :)

Choosing 45ct Vintage Sand Dune along with a variety of silks conversion, I think it will be interesting. From looking at the pic, you would think there were about 5 colors, I think there are over 15. I will have to make adjustments along the way, I have a vision of what I want her to look like, and I have already changed the selected color for the border, to another one. Might as well do it right from the beginning right? How many do we have started with colors we arent sure about, or dont even like? (Dutch Beauty conversion x 3 anyone?!!! LOL)

One of my favorite linen color is sand dune- regular or vintage, I like the vintage variety a bit better, I love the way it looks. You can stare at it for hours. Good think you will be working on it for hours!! (More like months or years!)

To spice things up a bit, I started in the right hand corner, and went left instead of down. How little things get us excited :) I am about halfway across the top border. I dont think I will ever get over how 3 pages of pattern turns out so small on my linen. This pic show 1 1/2 pages of pattern. I have 11 little motifs to go along the top. Piece of cake :) Speaking of cake, is it to early to have some?!!
I am always appreciative of all who read my blog and share thoughts, it means alot! Have a great day :)

25th January Project-Start

2011-01-26T21:24:00.000-05:00

I have to apologize for the super super late post. I know this post was due like 20 hours ago, but what can you do right? Time slipped by today at record speed, and no complaints about it either!!!!! Wow, what a great day :)

So without further hesitation, here is my start from last night. It is from Goode Huswife- One Bluebird. Very cute, minimal colors, as you can see. I did add 1 darker shade of brown, because with the 40ct Vintage Pearled Barley I am using, the lightest shade of creme barely showed up-- and I tried and ripped out 3 colors. So using the lightest shade of brown instead of creme, we had a winner!! Of course, then I was 'missing' a color too. No worries, problem was solved very quickly.

I have 3 sides of the border done, and it reminds me of my Great-Grandmother, Grandmother and Mothers tatted handkerchiefs, so delicate. The colors are yummy (of course) and I look forward to finishing this one shortly (I hope!)

24th January Project-Start

2011-01-25T11:52:00.000-05:00

Another cold but beautiful day we have today. Another great day for stitching! Well, I suppose any day is great for stitching right? My start for last night, is from Needles Prayse-Our Savior and The Two Thieves. An older pattern, classic in design and in the vision of my sampler wall, will fit in perfectly. I am always looking for variety, and with what I have started or worked on this month, I think I am headed down the right path.

This piece, by far is the most unusual sampler that I have wanted to stitch, and very special at the same time; I know it is not for everyone. It calls for 4 solid silk colors, I chose 5 hand-dyed silk colors. I want to see more depth with the vintage fabric, and I think even with waking up in the middle of the night second guessing my choices, was comforted this morning when seeing the selection again. 90% words, 3 Crosses and a classic border, simple and timeless.
I am pleased too, to have found a beautiful Lords Prayer sampler, along with gorgeous detail from the Scarlet-Letter. With the taste I have in choosing the samplers I stitch (usually very similar), I am excited to stitch this one.

I have the border almost done on the right side, I think there are 37 buds, I have over 20 something done. I know it will be more of an easy stitch, and more exciting then just alphabets over and over again.
Todays dilema, is what I am going to start/work on, I have no clue and at this point it is too early to take a look. I have updated my WIP's list on the side of my blog, and it is entirely too long. I knew that this would happen, but just seeing it in list formation is a little much!!!! My Husband was joking with me yesterday, about my 31 projects and said with a straight face, 'why stop at 31? You know how many days there are in the year?!' LOL, he is crazy. Crazier then me for sure :) Forget it I told him, I dont even think I have 365 projects, he said, wanna bet?!? No thanks, I dont really want him to know that there are probably 2 or 3 or 4 times that amount. I dont ever really want to know the exact amount, and with being organized, it doenst look like that many either....... I am happy with it contained to one room----- or is it more? LOL. Stash is just fun, no matter how much you have or how little you have. My sister has 1 box of projects, maybe 10 projects in it, and she is a 1 project gal, no more then 1 at a time for sure. I love her will power!!!! I outta take some notes from her, although I obviously have not paid any attention. Well what can you do :)

23rd January Project- Start

2011-01-24T11:35:00.001-05:00

Hello Monday. Isnt it just amazing how cold it is this morning?! WOW!! This winter has certainly been a great stitching season. Snow, Ice, frigid temps. Makes you want to stay huddled under your blankets and stitch the days away. Tea is always enjoyable this time of year too.
I was going through the stash bin of goodies I wanted to work on this month, and I saw that there were a few lonely patterns- without any thread or linen chosen yet. So, I had some fun yesterday in the thread department, and then the linen department. This is one of the most exciting things for me, chosing colors, and finding the most perfect shade you were looking for, you know you have it, where is it?! Then there it is. You can almost hear the choir...."Ahhhhh" Well, I can hear them for sure. I was looking for the most perfect shade of grape, not too pink, and not to purple, and I knew I had to have a skein somewhere. I didnt even have to steal it from another project. You see, the color is breathtaking, but it isnt a color I would normally pick up and have in another project, I usually steer the other direction in color. This one I knew it was meant to be. See, there is a reason we buy skeins---- 'just because'. Someday, there will be a need for it. And, my need came in yesterday (twice actually!)

My new start for this month is Helen Virtue, from Scarlet-Letter. I have chosen carefully the colors that would make Helen come alive; along with Dk Pearled Barley 45ct Lakeside.

The colors are a combination of Belle Soie, SNC, Florimell and Gloriana. I am excited to use another Hank-a-licious in this project, which is a limited edition Belle Soie color, and a nice variety of 'older' skeins. It still surprises me to have 4 of the same color, and each skein be a completely different shade. Again, that is why there is nothing wrong with just buying another skein-- even when you have 6 at home already!!! Someday it will come in handy.

Amazing how each has a border, each sampler has a mind of its own, and each one gorgeous in there own way. I am fired up about this sampler, the combination of colors are very different for me, but working with such wonderful supplies, it is always a pleasure. Thank you to all our local LNS's, and the time they take to order all these luscious supplies in for us, and thank you to all the vendors who continue to put out such amazing products for all of us to love (and hoard!! LOL) You are all a huge part of this stitching community and without you, we would not have these gorgeous samplers in our homes!!!!!!

22nd January Project

2011-01-23T11:48:00.000-05:00

I saw on Kims blog earlier this week a project I have and knew I had to pick it up again this month. It is from Scarlet-Letter The SDW German Band Sampler. My collection of linen, silks and pattern for this sampler has been living in this beautiful project bag for over 1 + year.

I bought the bag on a special trip I went on, and new it would house something beautiful :) When I had started this piece, I chose 45ct Vintage Fawn Lakeside and my conversion of NPI. I began like usual on the top right corner, completing the 2 solid lines and began my blackwork inbetween.

It is hard to see this fine band of blackwork, but in anycase, I am determined to stitch this row. I had a hard time with the NPI, being to thick in the 45ct for such fine work and bringing this matter to the attention of some Friends, I was able to get to the bottom of what to do. They suggested using the 130/2 Silk which the perfect color I needed could be found. Using the Society of Soie Surfine Silk (SoSS) I gave it a try last night.

Using this silk in a project for the first time last night, I was convinced there was no turning back. I was truly amazed at how this 'fine silk thread' sailed through the linen, and that the blackwork was actually going to look like something other then gold blobs on the top of my sampler. I recommend it for sure, and I am positive I will be using it in some of my other samplers that call for over one (when I chose the 45ct linen) and it will be perfection. I didnt have any trouble with it knotting or clumping, and yes, I did use the 1 yard lengths (I hate shorter threads) and how much I was able to accomplish in one night. The only thing is that I am sorry, is that I did not try it sooner, it is fabulous!

Before I started stitching the blackwork though, I had started a small bit on the left side, but I thought that I better make sure that the width was correct first with the blackwork, and also, I didnt want to stop stitching on it last year, because I was waiting for an answer to my silk dilemma.

I have 5 of the flowers done on the top row, I have 11 to go. I was not looking forward to stitching these at all, but the thread has made it actually very enjoyable. So, I hope it wont be another year until I work on her, but the end of this 31 day challenge is almost at the end, and then it is a free for all. You know what they say about a box of chocolates right?

21st January Project-Start

2011-01-22T20:12:00.000-05:00

Last minute posting today, short, quick and sweet. I've got stitching to do tonight :) Time got the best of me today, deadlines for things that had to be done, and if it wasnt done today, there would be less stitching next week. So I started Homespun Elegance- Be Joyous. Started with the called for Belle Soie Red Fox-- it is just so beautiful, no matter what you are working on along with 40ct Pearled Barley.

Here is the progress:

It will be a nice small project, and who knows how I will 'finish' it, but that is really not something I really ever worry about. Just stitching, thats it :) Have a great night!

20th January Project

2011-01-21T12:05:00.000-05:00

Being more then just a little lazy yesterday, I almost forgot to even stitch. I cant believe it myself either. We ended going to an Antique Village which was a little street of about 15 shops. Both my Husband and I have things we are always hunting for, and it is always exciting to see what is waiting around the corner. We ended up with a few new treasures, and had lots of fun looking. Amazing the different kinds of people in antique stores-- and often thoughts run through my mind, 'what are they hunting for?" Another thought is "I hope it isnt what I am hunting for!" LOL. I have never met anyone at an antique shop looking for the same thing as me at the same time, either they were there before and bought it, or I beat them to it!

I picked up late last night The Bramble and the Rose by Ink Circles. This is such a great piece. My Friend reminded me of how I dont really like more then 2 WIP's at a time, and I totally agreed with her. At this time, with more then 15 WIP's I am beyond passing the crazy farm, I now actually live there :)
I was looking for a pic of where I had left off, and not remembering where it was on my computer, you can upload pics from your blog that you have already posted. Amazing, going through the 100's that are on there, looking back at all the projects that I have worked on since starting this blog almost 2 years ago. Wow, was that fun! I am not the only one, who forgets what they have stitched, especially because I do not have most of them framed and hanging up in my home. Most are laying on top of each other in a drawer, waiting for their day of display to come. Lottery anyone?!!!!!
I got a few stitches in last night, not too many, but enough to see slight improvement from the top pic.

I hope to be a little more proactive today, but you never know. I will remember at an earlier time to stitch today, just on what, is always a mystery!

19th January Project-Start

2011-01-20T12:27:00.000-05:00

I decided to give myself a break last night, a start an 'easy' project. 'Easy' you ask? Yes, and you are reading correctly too :) I started an old Sheepish Design- American Beauty.

I had to dig deep for a piece of linen that would work, I ended up choosing Birds of a Feather Black Crow 32ct with a variety of Crescent Colors, WDW and GA threads. It calls for SNC and AVS, but I didnt really want to look for the silks, I just opened up my cotton thread bin and chose colors at random. Pretty easy to do, you should try it sometime. You never know what you are going to come up with, and it is great fun to boot!

I am pleased with the start, and even looking positive and put the date of 2011 on it. Why not? If I cant get this done this year, I might as well pack up now and through all the stash I have the heck out.
But, this piece has a combination of cross stitch and satin stitch, which is fun, adds depth for sure. Also, working on 32ct is something else, I can literally see through it! LOL.
So much fun these projects, so much fun!!!!

18th January Project

2011-01-19T10:20:00.001-05:00

I got an email from a friend the other day, that reminded me of a project that I had started the end of last year, and for some reason, seemed to forget about it until now. I didnt start something last night, but continued to work on Mary Beale- Her Sampler.

This is where I left her last year, and I this is where I left her last night.

I am amazed at her beauty. So very delicate and fresh. You can almost smell the flowers. I wanted to work on her because of Andrea. She started this years ago, and finished it last year, and it is Magnificent. Simply breathtaking, she is an amazing stitcher. She did an outstanding job!!! So, I have to have this sampler done in my home someday too :) What do you think? I love the variation of the silk overdyes, and so me gives her a some depth. This is the start of the top right corner, the 2nd flower is going down the right side, and the corner flower is done as well, and I am heading across the top. I was going to continue on the top, but got side tracked on the side. At this point it is 50/50. Do I stitch more flowers or start the words? I will not know until next time she makes an appearance!!!

17th January Project-Start

2011-01-18T13:23:00.000-05:00

A new day, another new project to show all of you. It is so exciting every day, for me too, to see which one will magically jump out of the plastic bin. Each day, I open that tote, and I can see hands raised and voices shouting 'pick me-- pick me' and the jumping begins. I would love to pick them all, but patience, patience.
Today I have for you from the Courtney Collection- Mermaid's Folley. Another large design- and the first design from Courtney Collection. I have seen this piece done and it is just something else. Sooo different from my comfort zone, but I am glad I have the 'guts' to do it :), Course, I really do like the piece, so I guess it was pretty easy.

I chose to use the called for linen- 40ct Vintage Autumn Gold, but elected to put my Hank-a-licious to use. Nothing like a hank of Gloriana silk to sing you through the day. But then again, hanks of silk-- any hank of silk is just fabulous right? I have wanted to sttich this design for a very long time now, and I am thrilled that she jumped out last night.

The only negative so far, is the start really doesnt look like much, but, give it a few more days of stitching, and you will see. Interesting enough, you dont really stitch the 'design' but stitch the background, and the design appears! So to boot, you will be able to enjoy the gorgeous fabric as well as the design.

What does today have to hold? I cant wait. Thanks to all of you reading and posting on my blog-- you have no idea how excited I get when others are excited too!!! It is great fun for sure.

16th January Project-Start

2011-01-17T11:50:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday right? Right. What a doom and gloom day, raining like a pest, but PERFECT for stitching! Last night I started a project that I treated myself to last year. The Essamplaire Victorine Delacroix. Only sold only as a kit when I bought it, (I think it still is), which buying kits is something I dont normally do, but there are exceptions to every rule. I love the sampler, love the colors, but I switched out the fabric. I had to do something, and the fabric it came with, wasnt something that appealed to me for the long haul of this project. The linen it came with has been added to the linen drawer, for maybe ornaments (alot of ornaments) or something :)

Another reason I do not like kits, is that the threads come all in a bunch and you have to spend a tremendous amount of time sorting them, even though Margriet did a great job in laying them out perfectly, there is always some shifting in the mail etc. None the less, Victorine will be worth the trouble.

Amazing the difference, I was thrilled to find the thread cards enclosed, I remember as a child, my mother buying me kits, specifically needlepoint kits, and the thread was so thick, and didnt fit into the cards, so I can remember her helping me make new thread cards, ones with adequate holes, made out of heavy cardboard. For this piece there were only a few colors that I needed to share a space across the aisle if you will and it will be pretty easy.

Again, starting in the top right, I didnt get as much done as I would have liked, sorting the threads and all, but I managed to get 4 colors into it. I know this is going to be an amazing piece for sure.

15th January Project- Start

2011-01-16T15:22:00.001-05:00

How many of you have brunch on Sundays? Or a later breakfast on Sundays? We just got back from brunch with my cousins and their 2 super cute little girls. One is 2 yrs old and the other 2 months. So much energy, and so much fun. The older one just loves hugs, and being familiar with us, we even get squeezes :) So cute you can only squeeze them back right?!
My start for yesterday is Examplar Dames And they Sinned. Yes, I am officially on the ATS wagon and loving it. I even pulled up my blog just now to see what was 'new' and saw Michelle was working on hers too. YGG!! Funny how she got through stitching her cloud by watching Sopranos. I love Sopranos. Not for the faint of heart though, but for me too, it is easy to watch 'seasons' of it at a clip. Well, that and the Godfather movies. But, Al Pacino and Robert De Niro arent too hard to watch for long periods of time, but we are going off on a tangent, and this paragraph with these such types of graphics/stories, isnt what we should be talking about with ATS right? Get back on track here...........Focus, Focus!!!!! LOL.

Showing once again the gorgeous silks, (I am going to need more of the thread keepers, with all the starting this month, each must belong to there own right?) I have made some adjustments (I can hear you-- of course you did!! LOL) or for me some improvements, and off I went. We did watch Forever Young with Mel Gibson, which at first, I said to my husband, I hope this gets better...... and Sommersby with Richard Gere, which was better. We try to get 2 movies in a night, and that is when I have been focusing on my stitching. For me, I am not really watching it, just really listening. Either way, the job is getting done in the stitching department. My husband, truly does like my hobby, very supportive- and those that know him, can attest to this. He has been after me to start this one forever. He likes bright colors, as you can see, this month, he is getting quite the variety of color.

I have added the ruler (rather it is really a yard stick) into the picture, because I wanted to show you the actual size. I chose a linear half for this piece, and on 45ct I thought the finished piece was going to be 7 1/2" wide but, stitching it on 45, (and being fully aware of this, but like a bus, hit me last night) the complete width is 6 3/4". My length will be almost 3 1/2" shorter then expected, which at 11:45pm, I was fired up!!!!!
You know how the color of the linen changes with every picture? The top pic is more truer in color and taken at night, the bottom was taken this morning. The bottom pic is more like the color of my Dutch Beauty-- however, both pieces were bought at way different times. This piece of Vintage Maritime White has beautiful shadings of green and is very creamy, Dutch beauty is creamy with light patches of gold/beige. You've got to love Lakeside Linen!!!!!! Every piece is like magic.
So what is it going to be today? I already have a very good idea........
Hope everyone is having a great weekend!!!!

14th January Project- Start

2011-01-15T13:02:00.000-05:00

Happy Saturday everyone! What a busy week it has been for all of us right? I am excited to share my start yesterday, it is Permin- Dutch Beauty.

Kitting this pattern up years ago with 32ct lt examplar, seemed only fitting with a nice straight conversion from DMC to NPI, no deviations. Putting a few stitches in the design on the top left corner, not in love yet, I ended up putting the supplies aside, knowing what I was in for in size, someday I will get to this again. Switching the linen for 40ct lt examplar 2 years ago with yet another conversion of NPI, more 'my colors' starting the stitching again in the top left, but not really loving the conversion anymore. I definately didnt like the border color I chose, and if you dont love it, with a piece like this, you might as well just throw it out. You will never work on it unless you are in LOVE right? I have seen this piece stitched, many of you have completed it, and it is just gorgeous. Simply breathtaking. One of my friends is stitching it on 40ct, and is so close to being done (maybe by this summer??!!) and her conversion is just fabulous. Another one of my friends is stitching hers on 48ct. I must stitch this piece too!!!!
This past summer, seeing their's again, made me want to break mine out again. Well, at least the pattern :) Finally, putting the supplies to bed, I have my final (and 3rd) conversion and NO, it is not going to change. Maybe locations of colors, but not the colors themselves. I might have to add to them, but we are there folks.

With the very patient help of my good Friend, the colors are now 'me'. (The 3rd time is a charm) I am finally in 'LOVE' with Dutch Beauty. Wow, what a great feeling, and now I dont know how I am going to wait until next month to continue working on it. The colors are an outstanding collection of Gloriana, Florimel, SNC, Belle Soie, Waterlilies and Fibers to Dye For. I had alot of fun taking the pics for this post. The hard part was choosing only a few-- not to bore anyone more then they might already be :).

My progress pic shows you so far the border, starting on the top right hand, and stitching more then the length of the first page. I think it is 7 sheets across and 3 down, so I am in the middle of the 2nd sheet on the right. Oh yeah, and stitching her on 45ct Vintage Maritime White Lakeside. I am very very pleased with this color as well-- happily suggested and selected by another good Friend. Isnt it wonderful to have so many fabulous friends to help you enhance your projects? Help you in suggestions for your projects? What a great feeling to have a close family of stitchers around you (even if they arent so close!).
For those of you who dont have an LNS, the blogging world has certainly helped enable all of us, and make new friends all around the world. Suggestions and ideas shared-- simply amazing. Thanks to the blogger who first introduced the Crazy Challenge this month, I know it has been very very popular :)

13th January Project

2011-01-14T19:27:00.000-05:00

Hope everyone is ready for another great weekend! Another weekend of stitching right?! I didnt start anything new last night, but instead took out a HUGE project that if I dont stitch on it a little here and there, it will NEVER EVER EVER get done. Someday I hope to finish it. The project is from A Stitchers Hand- PEACE. I know 2 other of my friends are working on it, and both of theirs are going to be gorgeous as well.

I am stitching Peace on 40ct Sienna Night Lakeside, with a beautiful variety of Gloriana, SNC, and Waterlilies silks. I have had the pleasure of seeing the original, which was stitched on 28ct over one using brighter AVS silks, and it too was beautiful. Mine being stitched on 40ct over 2 will be much larger for sure. The stitch count on this mother project is 578 x 941. Finished size 29" x 48", yes you are reading correctly, and yes, it is an entire yard of linen. So, with all this cold weather and snow we are having these days, it works as a blanket as well!!!! LOL. Completely insane? No, close though :)

I finished up the "D" last night, and when I finished it, I told my husband, 1 down, 25 to go. Ugh. 25....really? Holy smokes. So if I calculate my cards right, and think about stitching 1 letter a night, I could have the letters done in 25 days right? Well, thinking that would be great if they were 25 consecutive nights, but the rate I have been going on this, I dont think so. One can always dream right?

I have had a comment the other day of someone asking me, you really think you are going to get all these stitched in 1 year? Like as if I am planning on finishing all of them, plus more this year-- arent all of you?! I mean come on. No, the idea is just having fun with your stash right? Starting projects and finishing projects are 2 different things. Yes, I enjoy both, I can do both. Both are great fun for me, and I know there are many others in the same stitching boat as me, and boy are we having a great ride!

So with the weekend at our heels, I am ready to start running. I know for many of you tomorrow is a new start Saturday, and also for others, is the 15th of the month-- which means the last of the new starts for the crazy January challenge. I have been excited for all of you stitching your hearts out, being inspired with new ideas and enjoying your projects. Enjoy your weekend!!!!

12th January Project-Start

2011-01-13T17:58:00.000-05:00

Where oh where has the day gone already?!! WOW, almost 6pm. Well, not that I dont have a good excuse, we were hanging out with new babies today. My cousins twins that were born on Christmas Eve are both now home and boy are they beautiful. Amazing how tiny they really are. When we saw them on Christmas Day, it is hard to grasp their real size, when they were all bundled up and tiny tubes all around them. What a special treat today was for sure.

So home again James we went and after reading mail and emails, I remembered that I hadnt posted my start today yet. Holy smokes girl! Get going already!!!!!

So here it is. In all its blazing glory. Long Dog Beautie Spotte.

Tremendous work involved just in choosing/switching all the colors to a GORGEOUS selection of overdyed silks and what color linen would work well with all these colors? With a few valued opinions later, I chose 45ct Misty Rain Lakeside.
I am thrilled with the start and the result of my selections thus far.

I started in my usual spot-- top right hand corner. This is the companion piece to Sonne Spotte, which I also have, but chose this to stitch first. You can see a better picture here. Along with many of you, wondering about why I chose to stitch this piece, it is far from my 'comfort zone', but the color is simply amazing. More then once this month so far, I have stepped out of the box. But nothing like a little variety right? I am excited that it didnt take much to really see the first motif. Both pieces are 315 x 312, making my finished piece 14" x 14". I cant wait to see more progress on this one for sure.

Tomorrow Friday already, I cant believe that it is almost mid January. We all need more time :)

11th January Project-Start

2011-01-12T10:01:00.001-05:00

Wow, so many wonderful comments on my finish with yesterdays post-- I am SO excited. I am happy to have 1 under my belt already for 2011. Today I give you pics of my new start last night, Goode Huswife Quaker Friendship Sampler. This pattern was re-released in the Vol 4 Goode Huswife Book of 10 must have quaker samplers. I was thrilled to get this book last year, because of all the designs included that had been OOP for so long. (PS, I didnt take this top pic, just borrowed it from the pattern)

Choosing 36ct R & R Linen with Gloriana Silk thread, so far my start is looking great. I think the original was stitched on Sparrow, but I didnt have any on hand last night, and didnt really want to go digging at 8:30pm, so..... here it is.

Of course I am thrilled that the center motif matched up. But who isnt ever thrilled when that happens?! LOL.

How many of you got snow yesterday? I cant believe the amount of snow in the last few weeks people have been getting!!!! Wow, at this rate we are going to have snow until spring. But, look at the positive, if you are stuck at home, think of all the stitching you can get done-- we all know there isnt much chance of running out of stash right?!

10th January Project-Start

2011-01-11T15:40:00.000-05:00

and my first 2011 FINISH!!!! Yes, I started a project yesterday and FINISHED it yesterday. With My Needle- Needles & Pins Heart Pinkeep. First thing my husband said was, "I havent seen you stitch many hearts before......" The end result is what drew me in, plus there was a blackbird involved!!!! (Technically, the original is a navy bird, mine is black)

Now I know it isnt a big project, but it is super cute. I didnt 'finish' it, just stitched it. I am not much of a finisher, and unless there is a deadline, it wont get finished for sometime.

Using a scrap of 40ct Weeks Dye Works Straw (which looks pretty close to the pattern picture), and my conversion of Gentle Arts threads, it was a easy and fun little project. I wanted to get something done in one day, for goodness sakes, you know that isnt going to happen with most of my starts this month :)
What is going to be next? My husband is already thinking of a personal challenge for me to do in February......I already have ideas for that :) But for today, one only knows!!!!!!

9th January Project-Start

2011-01-10T10:08:00.001-05:00

I am so excited to share yesterdays start with all of you! Many thanks to Margaret, who inspired me to kit this project up (among many many others) this summer, I have now started Jane Atkinson from the Scarlet Letter. WOW-- isnt she just incredible?

The AVAS silks are on my ring in numerical order, easier for me to find them. Not to used to using the solid silks as much, silks that have color names are always easy to find, using them often, I know what they look like and love looking at the silks in a rainbow fashion :) Not the case this time!!

Knowing I will have much experience (yeah right) with over 1 on 45ct, I decided way back this summer I was going to stitch Jane on 45ct. So, Vintage Navy Bean was a perfect match for her, and she waited quietly in the bin of goodies, until Sunday night. I now know the excitement Margaret was feeling while stitching Jane, she is coming alive-- one stitch at a time.

Jane will be like Rosina, I am wanting to stitch on her for more then 1 night, but February is around the corner, and Jane will have to lay still again for a few weeks. If you are interested in a large piece, she is one to consider for sure. I know one friend of mine has her kitted up as well.....
I started Jane on the top right corner and finished the most right flower with the 2nd one on the left side half done. Breathtaking!!!!!

I hope everyone has a wonderful week!

8th January Project- Start

2011-01-09T18:52:00.000-05:00

Better late than never right? Where has the day gone already? WOW!! I started Threads of Gold Mary Corey last night with a silk conversion and 45ct Vintage Luna. She is going to be 5.25 x 5.25" can you even? So adorable. It is a great filler for the 'wall' if you know what I mean :)
Here are some pics.

And this is where I stopped last night. The 3rd pic is a better color of the linen, but with the morning light on the last pic it is always deceiving. Anyway, sorry for such a super short post, I have got stitching to do!!!!

7th January Project

2011-01-08T11:54:00.001-05:00

I got an email from a good friend of mine yesterday reminding me about my WIP Sanctuary by Drawn Thread. She asked, how is yours coming along? I knew what I was going to work on for sure. This is a project, inspired by another good friend, I saw hers done and knew I had to stitch this one as well.

This is where I started last night. Stitched on 40ct Vintage Pear Lakeside with converted silks. And this is where I stopped.

The border is done using the Rapid Stitch. I am a bit behind 'schedule' on this piece, but catching up isnt usually too hard right? Although, so many projects I would love to stitch on more then 1 day. Looking forward to February :)

6th January Project

2011-01-07T10:40:00.001-05:00

Today Ladies and Gentleman, I have for you one of my favorite WIP's. I tell you, I could stop the madness and work solely on Rosina Payne. She is so beautiful, and so relaxing to stitch on. I must say, that she is for now relaxing, I haven't started the verse which is over 1 and I am stitching her on 45ct Porcelain Lakeside. Crazy you thought before?! Now I should be committed :)

This is where she was left to RIP with the rest of the WIP's I have going, and this is where is is now.

I was disappointed not to get the 1st border done, but I wanted to be sure it is going to match up, so double checking as I went along was my main goal. I finished the line under the alphabet, and the flowers next to the butterfly are now in a pot, instead of floating, and the border is going smoothly. She is stitched with a combination of silks, so luscious.

I have had alot of questions about conversions, and I think conversions are something you work out for yourself, my personal taste has alot to do with my color choices, what I feel works best for me, what I want to see hanging on the wall in my house. You also have to remember that dyelots for all threads vary from batch to batch. I have threads in my stash from years ago, and purchasing another skein today- there is a 99% guarantee that it will be different. There are times I dont change the colors at all, (rare I know) but I am drawn to pieces with specific color, and if the color isnt for me, I just change it. I am telling you, if you have never switched out a color on a piece, and are a bit nervous, start with 1 color. Instead of pink, choose mauve, or instead of red, choose burgundy. Playing with color is great fun, and you get to play with stash too!!

Also, I do not use any magnification for my stitching, I have tried it in the past, but found I dont need it just yet. There will be a time I am sure in the future.

Thanks to all of you who read this blog and comment, it is such great fun to get to know each other, and see what goodies-- new starts and WIP's are being found out there. Everyone-- keep up the great work!

5th January Start

2011-01-06T11:04:00.000-05:00

A fresh new day is here and isnt it a beautiful?! I am excited to tell you about my new start yesterday. Birds of a Feather L'Hiver. This is one of 4 in the series. A very long time ago, I bought these patterns, I was only stitching on 32ct, maybe 36ct but never ever would consider 40. At that time higher counts existed I am sure, but had no interest in them, so who would have known? I kitted all 4 of these beauties up with 32ct linen. After doing some measurements , I realized that these finished pieces would have measured out to be 19" x 24 " each, and that isnt framed yet!!!! Well, knowing now what I know about frame costs, and minimal wall space, I elected to re-kit these 4 up.

I chose to use 45ct linen on each of these girls, using a color I thought worked best for the season. Choosing 4 colors of linen seemed more interesting to me, then stitching all 4 huge projects on the same color. Why not switch it up? AND, the finished design size is going to be 13" x 17". Can you believe the difference!!! Also, I converted all the WDW and GA colors to Gloriana, Silk n Colors, Waterlilies, Belle Soie, Dinky Dyes and Northern Lights. Again, why not?!

L'Hiver, is the one I chose to start yesterday on Vintage Fawn Lakeside. The color in the pic is SO off, that it looks like Pear on my screen. You get the idea though. The red for her coat is so vibrant, and looks fabulous with the dk brown hair, I cant wait to stitch on her more.

But, today is a new day, and I have decided not to start something new today, but break into the WIPs that I had planned on for this month, and see what happens. There are so many calling me from across the room, it is hard to keep them all quiet :)

4th January Start

2011-01-05T12:45:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I started "Olga" from Plum Street Samplers. What a cute little design, and I do have Boris, but he isnt in the January start pile :). Olga has been started on 40ct Lakeside Vintage Lentil Linen, with the crescent colors threads called for.

We watched Inception last night with Leonardo DiCaprio. Not to bad, not one of my favorites, but entertaining while stitching at least. I wonder what the next project will be!

3rd January Start

2011-01-04T21:55:00.000-05:00

I am not sure what it is about getting up and starting to stitch right away, it sounds great right, but I have not gotten around to that lovely idea since the first. I started Homespun Elegance "Live in Harmony" with 40ct Examplar Lakeside linen, with my conversion NPI from DMC. After supper last night, I thought I better get on it, so here is my start! I am very pleased so far with this progress, and so far with the 3 choices in the projects that I started this year :)

On to the next project :)

2nd January start

2011-01-03T11:44:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was not as productive as I would have liked in the stitching department, I did manage to get started on "Ichabod Seabury" by Primitive Needle, but ended up spending the afternoon at my cousins, putting things on craigslist. I tell you what, that craigslist is something else. I have never purchased anything off of it, but I have sold my fair share of items on it. She had never sold anything on it, and from my experience, it can be only a matter of minutes before the phone calls start coming in. For example, with her 8 items we listed, after lunch yesterday, within 5 minutes of posting a washer/dryer 2 combo unit, the phone rang and in a 1/2 hour, there was someone coming for it. Paying cash and it was out of the garage. She couldnt believe it.

We listed other items, table, bedroom set, etc etc, and already this morning at 10am someone came for the table. Simply amazing. Tonight we have an appointment for the bedroom set, which is fabulous, and should have no problem going, as of this post, 5 were interested in it. First one with the cash wins!

I got back late and picked up Ichabod, around 9pm and started on it. I am using 40ct Swamp from Picture this Plus along with Belle Soie silk threads, changing only the Lasagna for Paprika. The Lasagna color was way to bright for me. Strange, I have never in my life used a linen color like this, and it is quite different. Not hard, but WAY of of the box for me.

Not to shabby. If I stayed home, I would have gotten way more done. I have been wanting to stitch this piece for a very long time. Did you read, there are a few goodies lined up for us from Primitive Needle. I love her things, they are always so fun :)

January Starts

2011-01-02T11:57:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year everyone! It is the 2nd of the month already, hard to believe right? Funny, I could hear the wurring of all the needles all around the country with all the new starts happening. On New Years Eve, after writing my last post of the year, and working on Bramble, I began to think about another option for January.

What is the significance of the number 15? 15 starts in January, 15 WIP to be had and hope to be completed in the year 2011 right? So I had mentioned that I would start 6 for sure, and mostly work on already WIPs that were in bottom of the barrel, but I went into the basement to give a last look for the new start January challenge. I decided I didnt want to stop at 15. I was going to go all the way with 31 starts/WIP's in January. Why mess around?!! LOL.

I love a challenge, and what I decided to do, is pull out starts and WIPs (mostly starts) and put them into a plastic tote. I will pull one out each day to work on, and work on that one all day. I will take pics of the supplies, and progress pics periodically during the day and when the night is over take 1 final pic. The following day, I will post the previous days project and progress. Some are easy, some are HUGE and some are already going.

And, what I still would like to do, is finish Bramble and the Rose this month. I said I wanted to finish this piece last month, and you see the progress, but not the finish. Keep plugging along. I continued to work on Bramble yesterday as well as my new start for January 1st 2011.

January 1st, the first start of the year is Maria's Dechado by Samplers Remembered.

Using 45ct Vintage Luna from Lakeside Linen along with Soie de Paris, using the colors and linen called for, I started her at 12:05am, put about 20 stitches in and went to bed by 12:20. Last night, after working on Bramble, I pulled out Maria again at 10pm and worked on her for 1/2 hr. Not too much progress, but enough to know that she is going to be gorgeous. I have not ever used this silk before, and I find it kind of slippery, but the sheen is amazing. Very very nice.

Since it is the 2nd of January already, I better get cracking on todays project! It is great fun to see all the new starts going on this month, everyone's blog posts are going to be very very interesting for sure!!!!! This is going to be so much fun!!!!

Its the Last Day

2010-12-31T16:54:00.000-05:00

of 2010. Can you believe it?! I am not alone when I ponder this thought. So much has happened this year, so much to be thankful for and so many blessings. Overall 2010 has been a great year.

Christmas was fabulous-- very eventful and we have 2 new little ones in the family!!!! A boy and girl born on Christmas Eve. We even got to see them on Christmas day in the hospital. They are so little, so precious. They had on tiny red and white crocheted hats on that someone made with love for Christmas. My cousin and his wife were truly blessed with 2 bundles of joy this year. They are a miracle for sure :)

We even found out there is another little one coming in the Spring, so many babies!!!

I told my boss that I was not going to be working any more this year :) So stitching and stash diving was a big part of this week. Not to much was completed in the stitching department in 2010, but I did finish some pieces, even framed one- Paradise Lost. Stash was added to of course--that goes without saying, you know you see a pattern you gotta get it. There are a few designers that 'retire' and discontinue patterns, so you better grab it right? Then they 'come back' into being, selling their patterns again, and it makes you kind of crazy. Buy or not to buy? $8-$10 bucks is better then $40-$50 right? I dont want to take any chances. There are so many fabulous new designers, so many great designs, so much time and effort goes into them for all of us to stitch and enjoy in our homes forever. I look forward to those new patterns for sure.

I have worked slowly on Bramble and the Rose (one of my favorite designs from Ink Circles) over the last 2 weeks, and have made some progress. 40ct Lakeside Linen- Meadow Rue, ltd edition gloriana threads. I am getting more and more excited about these piece, making more of a dent in it, it is moving nicely. I would like to continue working on this piece into the new year, and my first finish of the year be the Bramble and the Rose.

I have been thinking and thinking about the challenges that have been flying through the internet blogs and conversations, 15 starts in the first 15 days of January. I go back and forth, should I do this? Not that there is ANY TROUBLE FINDING 15, more like which of all these would be the lucky 15!!! So, as I write this, I am going to start 6 I think, I may change my mind in the next 24 hrs, but I also want to focus on the 8-10 WIP's that I have going. Of course, there are no rules, right?! LOL.

I wont tell you until the next post, which 6 or so new starts I am going to do, and which of the WIPs I want to focus on. I am excited about it however, my boss wants to rehire me next year sometime, which of course I will have to say ok, I will come back to work for you, but maybe in a month or so. I wonder if I will get away with that :)

Thanks to all of you who read my blog and those who follow my blog, it is so exciting to read your comments and also read your blogs. I get so much inspiration from your blogs and conversations. Thank you to all my friends-- mostly far and not so near, but closer then you think for sure :) Technically, I carry all of you in my pocketbook on my phone, and of course in my heart.

Another exciting year ahead of us, so many projects to stitch and friends to be made. Happy New Year everyone!!!