The Stitcher's Abbey

The Return of the Long Lost Stitcher

2011-05-09T15:31:00.000-04:00

My goodness, I have been really bad and not posted for such a long time. I am enjoying staying home and not working. Time is going by so fast. I have been stitching a little, but not as much as I should be.
I am not going to get my goals finished at this rate.

I especially feel bad about not visiting all of you. I am going to start getting caught up on my blog reading. I know I have missed a lot of the pretty things you all have been stitching.

I have sent and received the Lizzie Kate Exchanges.
I received from Brenda today a cute framed picture. I like the Easter design and the colorful eggs. Especially the carrot lol. It seems like I have a thing for carrot designs now.

This is the design that I stitched and finished for Brenda. I stitched this while I was in Virginia on vacation and finished it when I got home. My first experience with pom poms.

Lizzie Kate ABC's
32 count Linen
Weeks Dye Work floss

I have been stitching on Ira Rae Crow and about have him finished. Also I am stitching on BRD Frolic In The Foliage. The bright fall colors of this one are holding my interest.

Loving You For A Friend

2011-03-07T18:50:00.000-05:00

I stitched LHN Always and Forever for my friend and co-worker Rhonda.
Her wedding was Saturday. I chose a 32 count linen and Soie Cristale silk floss by Caron. I framed it in a white frame. It stitched up so fast and esay with the silk floss although I had to do a little frogging. For some reason my concentration was off. lol.

This is my 4th finish for the year. I am diligently stitching some every day but don't have any real progress to share. I stitched the most on Ira Ray Crow. I think he will be my next finish.

Two Valentine Finishes

2011-02-15T20:26:00.000-05:00

I finished these two valentine ornaments making my finishes for the year at four. I am still stitching on my Crazy Fifteen Challenge Pieces. The first one is a Lizzie Kate stitched on an unknown 32 count fabric with DMC floss.
I chose a blue floral fabric to finish it into a pillow ornament.

The second one is "Love Me" a freebie from Primitive Betty. I used an unknown 32 Count Fabric that was dyed with strawberry Koolaid. When I dyed the fabric for Lizzie Kate "Hello Spring" I saw a skein of DMC 601 lying on the bar so I dipped it in the yellow dye. I thought it turned out a pretty color. It looked like a valentine color so I used it for this design. I finished it with a floral fabric in peach,rose and green. used green ribbon and pink pearls.

Valentines & Hearts

2011-02-13T23:59:00.000-05:00

I received my Lizzie Kate Exchange from Kathy. She stitched for me a favorite design and finished it into a beautiful pillow. I love the pretty navy fabric with the pink roses. Hot pink is one of my favorite colors so the ribbon is perfect.

I also got a special gift from Rory . The pillow arrived in the pretty Valentine bag that Rory's chocolate puppy is lying on. Thank you so much Kathy & Rory for making my Valentines Day special.

I found this lovely lady in a box. I had forgotten all about her. I stitched her quite a few years ago, I guess. She is stitched on perforated paper.

I thought she was so cute and I remember ordering the wooden body and arms. She was in one of the Cross Country Magazine Issues.

I have two Valentine finishes that I will post tomorrow.

Hello Spring & My Second Finish

2011-02-06T19:34:00.000-05:00

I stitched Hello Spring for Michele. She was my partner for Round 6 in the Lizzie Kate Exchange. I was searching for something that wasn't winter themed and found this sunny little design.

Hello Spring
Lizzie Kate Freebie 2006
Hand Dyed 28 Ct. Jobelan
DMC Floss

I hand dyed 28 count Jobelan and used Weeks Dye Works Floss and Sampler Threads. I found the fabric at JoAnn's and thought it matched the colors in the design pretty well. I added some bright green rick rack and sewed it on using purple Mill Hill Beads. I sewed on a bright orange bow and attached it with a heart button.
I am happy that Michele likes it.

This is my second finish for 2011. It is slow going as all of my Crazy Fifteen Challenges are so huge. I still would like to stitch up at least one small Valentine design. Maybe tomorrow.
I am still stitching on Sixteen Birds today and would like to get one more motif finished and complete the band row.

Sun Oh Sun Where Art Thou?

2011-02-05T18:26:00.001-05:00

We have been having rain and colder temperatures the past few days. It is better than snow and ice, but I am waiting on some sunshine..
I went to LNS to pick up a couple skeins DMC. Big mistake. I have been wanting Blackbird Designs Pumpkin Time. I just love the colors in this design. Guess what I came home with?
They also had a basket with discontinued colors of Weeks Dye Works. I got 18 skeins for $4.00.

I have a little progress on Sixteen Birds by Karen Kluba of Rosewood Manor. I put Real Roses away for a while so I wouldn't get burned out on it.

Sixteen Birds
Rosewood Manor

Progress on Sixteen Birds
Rosewood Manor
28 Count Lugana
DMC Floss

I am stitching on something for a gift. I cannot show a picture or say what it is or who it is for because I think the recipient might read my blog. I am also going to see if I can get another band finished on this one.
I am setting more goals for February. I really would like to stitch at least one Valentine design. I would also like to finish one of my Fifteen Challenges.

Buffy and Abbey have two beds but this is the one they fight over. Neither one will sleep in the other one. Abbey settled in for a long nap while Buffy was looking so sad.

More Roses & New Stash

2011-01-27T18:07:00.000-05:00

I have a little progress on Real Roses by Drawn Thread. I am still continuing stitching on this one. I didn't get too much stitching done yesterday as I had errands to run and searching to do. Last night Bob put Sim City on my computer and I stayed up late playing around with it. Then I got up this morning and spent more time playing it. You might say I feel like I wasted my day here. Right now I have my city in a mess, the traffic is horrendous. They are crashing into each other and there are fires everywhere. I don't know how to fix it. lol. I think that about does it for the game.
I am spending the evening listening to "The Host" by Stephanie Meyers and stitching. I read the Twilight Saga and wanted to read The Host but it is such a thick book. I don't have a Kindle but, I found it in an audio book. it has 18 CD's. I also found Rhett Butler's People.

Real Roses
The Drawn Thread
32 Count Antique White Linen
NPS

I took the first picture this morning and it turned out real well. The second one I took later after I finished the band looks like crap.
The next band has butterflies or dragonflies (?) and no speciality stitches except satin stitch so I am kind of anxious to start on it.
I didn't have any luck finding the Samplers & Antique Needlework magazine. Looks like the only way you can get it is by subscribing.
I did get the latest issue of Cross-Stitch & Needlework. It has an Irish Blessing Sampler on the cover designed by Linda Bird. I would like to find time to stitch it by St, Patricks Day. There is a beautiful Spring Morning Sampler by Karen Kluba 0f Rosewood Manor.

I won a piece of Lakeside Linens Pearled Barley on Ebay. I am not sure what I will stitch on it, but can't wait to start, it is so luscious. I also won a beautiful Shepherd's Bush kit. It has beautiful silk threads and 32 count hand-dyed linen--French Vanilla. This is going to be so much fun. I can't believe I got a $60.00 kit for $21.00. I just couldn't pass it up knowing that I have my Crazy Fifteen to stitch. I am just going to have to squeeze in one more.

I have a bad headache, it could be sinus or possibly be from that crazy game and staring at this monitor all day. I am hoping it will go away, I have taken Exederins so now loaded up on caffeine.

A Rose Is A Rose

2011-01-24T21:23:00.000-05:00

I started off the day finishing my Lizzie Kate Exchange. I made it into a little pillow and spoofed it up a little. I hope my partner likes it. I didn't make it to the post office but I am planning on going tomorrow.

We are going to Augusta, I am not sure what Bob wants over there, but I am going to Borders and look for the newest issue of Sampler & Antique Needlework's. I have looked all over Columbia and can't find it.

I stitched on Real Roses by The Drawn Thread, I have started it over because I didn't like the fabric that was in the kit. It was way too dark and hard to stitch on. I am using 32 ct, Antique White Linen by Permin and the NPS that was in the kit.

I actually have the second band almost completed. I stitched more on it after I took the picture, but I wanted to take it while the sun was still shining. I haven't decided my strategy yet, but I am thinking that if I can stitch one band a day it will be finished in 12 days. (maybe less)

I have to go clean the kitchen and start the dishwasher. Maybe I can finish the second band tonight.

First Finishes 2011

2011-01-23T09:50:00.000-05:00

I took this picture of Buffy yesterday. She has been feeling kind of bad because of her allergies. She has been taking her meds and was up and about wanting to play. That is her favorite toy, all the stuffing torn out, we call it a skin. lol.
I have been stitching on a couple small projects. One is for an exchange which will go in the mail tomorrow.
The other one is a Christmas ornament for the 2011 Ornament A Month Challenge . I have so many ornaments that I want to stitch up but this one by Val's Stuff has been calling me.
I had the 25 Count Mushroom Lugana in my stash. I stitched it over one with DMC Floss. I wasn't sure if the snowmen were going to show up but after I finished stitching the first one I saw it was okay.
I made the twisted cord and added small gold jingle bells with a gold braid bow. The fabric is also a little more beige than in the picture.

OH Joy
Val's Stuff
JCS 2010 Ornament Issue
25 ct Lugana over 1
DMC Floss

I am stitching on Real Roses and hope to get the rose tree finished so that I can post progress tomorrow.
Best stitches to everyone.

Exchanging & Winning

2011-01-19T11:03:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I received a huge brown envelope in the mail. It was stuffed in the mailbox and when I pulled it out, it poofed up into a huge bag. It was the 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway that I won from Lynda A Cozy Little Place For Stitching .
I had been waiting on it to arrive and thought it would be here Monday but beings it was a holiday there was no mail delivery. When I opened it I found 12 packages, it was like Christmas again. Lynda thanks so much.

All My Goodies

A Stitching Journal & a Calender

Some beautiful fabric & a needle minder

Fabric & A Pincushion

A Blue Ribbon Design
Three Lizzie Kates
JBW Designs

Silkweaver Fabric
4 Skeins Dragon Floss

Buttons & Pins

Dinky Dye Stork Scissors
Ribbons & Needles
4 colors of Kreinik
3 Mill Hill Beads
Thread Heaven

On the stitching front, I finished stitching my Lizzie Kate for the Exchange. I looked through my fabric and couldn't find a suitable match so I am going to have to go shopping before I can finish it and get it in the mail.

I started my Christmas ornament for the month and hope to get the stitching done today. Then I want to restart Real Roses. I can't let Karen get ahead of me. lol.
Enjoy your day!

A Gentleman Quaker for Day 15

2011-01-16T18:33:00.000-05:00

I have been busy all day and just now had a few minutes to share my last design for the Crazy Fifteen Challenge.
I really like this one and the colors are so different from what I have been stitching. Only two of them so no problem with color changes.
I am stitching it as a companion piece to My Lady's Quaker.

Gentleman Quaker
Jardin Prive
28 Count Lambswool
DMC 839 & 841

I am thinking about continuing on this one for another day before I decide which other one to stitch on. Actually I want to start Real Roses over on a different fabric as the fabric in the kit is not doing the design justice.
Also I have two small ornaments I need to stitch by the end of the month. It might be a releif to stitch on something and finish it straight away. I do need a couple of finishes for 2011.

I want to thank you all for the nice comments, they have helped me get through these fifteen days.

Take care and talk to you soon,

A Magic Garden Sampler & One more to Go

2011-01-15T15:35:00.000-05:00

Happy 15th of January. The last day of Crazy Fifteen Challenge. It is amazing to think that I have actually started all fifteen of my selections.
The hard part now is finishing them.
Day 14 is Magic Garden Sampler by Shakespeare's Peddler. I am stitching it on 40 Count R&R Linen 1 over 2 with DmC Floss. The stitches are pretty tiny so I expect to be a while finishing this one.

Magic Garden Sampler
Shakespeare's Peddler
R&R 40 Count Linen
DMC Floss

I couldn't get a good picture. The colors are actually 472, 844 and 317. So it looks entirely different in real life, but After fiddling aound for an hour or more, I gave up. At least you can see my progress. Hopefully the next pic of it will turn out better.

I hope everyone is enjoying their weekend.

Fredericka & A Tuffet

2011-01-14T17:58:00.000-05:00

Wow! This was certainly a beautiful day. The sun has been shining and the thermometer made its way up to 41 degrees. It is supposed to be 52 this weekend. We will be having a heatwave lol.

I am revealing two starts today, (running a little behind on posting) but HEY I am keeping up. I will be knid of glad to finish up so I can get something else done. My housework has suffered a little bit. And I am curious as to which one of the fifteen I will pick up first.

Day 12 is Just A Thought by Judy Odell. I just have to have a biscornu added to my list. I originally had both Frederick and Fredericka but decided that they were too much alike to keep both.
I love this tuffet and it is going to be so pretty. I am using ThreadworX overdyed floss and stitching it on 32 Count brown Linen. It has lots of Mill Hill Beads and has ruched ribbon around the edges.
I purchased the floss from The Stitch and Frame Shop in Rock Hill last summer and had actually forgotten about it until it turned up while I was searching for something else.

Just A Thought
Judy Odell
32 Count Brown Linen
ThreadworX overdyed floss

Day 13 is Fredericka by Carriage House Samplings. I really like stitching this one and I am sure that it will be one of my first finishes. I stitched quite a while on it before I put it down and took a break. I wanted to keep going but I had to step ahead to Day 14.

Fredericka CHS
32 Count Lambswool
DMC Floss

That's all for today my friends. I am off to find nourishement and my stitchy thing for today.

Challenge Days 10 and 11

2011-01-13T12:13:00.002-05:00

Two more days of the Crazy Fifteen Challenge are started and ready to go. I have been stitching as I have been house bound since the ice storm. It was a pretty day today (we had sunshine YAY!) It was still pretty chilly but it did melt a little ice.

Day 10 was Blue Ribbon Designs Peppermint Twist. I have had this one kitted up for over a year and originally had planned to join a SAL. I hope I finish by Christmas.

Peppermint Twist
Blue Ribbon Designs
40 Count R&R Linen
Weeks Dye Works

Day 11 is Real Roses by The Drawn Thread. I have had this kit for several years and I won it on Ebay. The kit came with fabric but is not the suggested fabric. I am not sure what it is, but I am thinking of maybe starting it over on something less heavy and bulky. Probably a lighter shade. I have a good bit started but, it is a beautiful design and a lot of work so I want it to look okay. (No, I am definitely happy with it at all.) I am hesitant about even posting the pic. lol

Real Roses
The Drawn Thread
32 count Unknown Linen
NPS

Day 12. I am starting on Fredericka today. She is going to be a fun stitch, I love the colors. The challenge is going to be the border but it looks like it is going to be faster than I thought.

The sun is shining today and more ice is disappearing. It is still a little nippy out there so I am staying in and see how much stitching I can get done.

Another Crow ? Day 9

2011-01-10T19:20:00.000-05:00

Today has definitely been a day for crows. The snow was here when I awoke at 3 A.M.
I couldn't go back to sleep right away so I watched it coming down for a while and worried about my DS getting home from work at 6. He has a 35 mile commute. He is a good driver under these conditions from living in Idaho. But driving in South Carolina is a whole new ball game.

It took him almost an hour and a half to get home but he arrived safely. He had to go back tonight and left at 4 o'clock. There will probably be black ice in the morning.

We have 2 small birdfeeders on the front porch and have had a lot of finches and cardinals, some doves and some small sparrows come to eat. This morning we had a lot of crows visit. The whole porch was covered and they were fighting over the seed. The small birds and the cardinals didn't get anything. Later this afternoon I filled the feeders again and they got to eat.

Day 9 selection for The Crazy Fifteen Challenge was Ida Mae Crow by The Goode Huswife. I am stitching her as a companion to Ira Ray Crow. I actually got a bit done while watching the weather updates and the crows outside .

Ida Mae Crow
The Goode Huswife
32 Count Linen
Dmc Floss

I am signing off for now and going to snuggle up with Buffy and Abbey. I amm having a problem with Buffy. She refuses to go out in the snow. She hates it.

A Frolic In The Foliage Day 8

2011-01-09T19:32:00.000-05:00

Day 8 of The Crazy Fifteen Challenge was spent frolicking in the foliage. I really love the colors in this one. It was very hard to put aside and start the next challenge. It is going to be pretty and I hope I have it finished to enjoy next autumn.

Right now I have to get through January. It has always been my least favorite month. Have to see what the weather brings to South Carloina tonight. They are saying snow and ice, I went out and turned the light on in the pump house to keep the water pipes from freezing.

I am home alone with my two fur babies, Buffy and Abbey. They are both sleeping but still company for me.

Frolic In The Foliage
Blue Ribbon Designs
28 Count Lugana
DMC Floss

I am still stitching on Day 9 and hope to get a little more done tonight. It doesn't seem like I have 9 starts already.
I am trying to remember them in my mind. I guess I will line them all up and see if it is true. LOL.

Everyone have a good night, stay warm and safe.

My Lady's Quaker Day 7

2011-01-08T15:30:00.000-05:00

This is my selection for day 7 of the Crazy Fifteen Challenge. I have been wanting to stitch My Lady's Quaker by Jardin Prive for a long time. I decided to go with the pink version.

I managed to finish two motifs and the small butterfly in the upper left corner, but I really am anxious to start stitching the lady. I am stitching her on 28 Count Lambswool with DMC 223 and 315.

I am almost over the hump, only 8 more starts. lol. I don't know if I am going to make it or not. One more week to go and I am trying not to get confused.

With My Needle Challenge Day 6

2011-01-06T20:38:00.000-05:00

Todays challenge is going to really live up to it's name. I wanted to stitch it on 40 count and LNS didn't have much to pick from. After I started stitching With My Needle by The Goode Huswife, it was so hard to see, I felt like tossing it. Then I said to myself, you have to use this, you can't afford not to. Once I got started with my ott light and magnifier I was on a roll.

There Be A Crow Day 5

2011-01-05T20:56:00.000-05:00

Add caption

I didn't know it was raining until I put my stitching down to let Buffy out. She won't go unless I go with her. She's a trip.

She loves to go riding in the car and We were going to Hobby Lobby for 3829. I went through all floss 3 times and couldn't find it. I know it is here somewhere. Any way Buffy thought she would drive for a spell. This is the first time she ever did this. She is too funny. She is actually looking where she is going. ROFL

Buffy driving me to Hobby Lobby

Todays Challenge was Ira Ray Crow by The Goode Huswife. I always wanted to stitch him and Ida Mae Crow so here we go! That is a strange colored flower on the left, I womder what kind it is?

Ira Ray Crow
The Goode Huswife

Ira Ray Crow
32 Count Lambswool
Dmc Floss

May the stitch be with you

Crazy 15 Exchange Day 4

2011-01-04T20:17:00.000-05:00

Country Cottage Needleworks
Sweet Treats
28 Count Ivory Linen
Crescent Colors

I am really going to like this one. I bought all the thread packs last year and I am just now getting the opportunity to start it.
I wasn't sure how it was going to look on the ivory linen, but I think it is okay.I
can't wait to finish the cupcake.

Note to self: Never ever stitch with white floss when you have on a fuzzy red bathrobe. I had to frog out the first row of white border. It took me a while to figure out why it was pink.

Sampler Musings Day 3

2011-01-03T18:44:00.000-05:00

Crazy 15 Challenge
Day 3

Here we are on Day 3 of this crazy challenge. I can see why hence the name. I have a feeling I am going to be a little less sane as the days go by. Anyhow here is my selection for today. I did get the house and rabbit stitched and the border for the first season.

Sampler Musings
The Sampler Company
32 Count Linen
DMC Floss

Heart of America Day 2

2011-01-02T18:22:00.000-05:00

I have done nothing but stitch today. No wait a minute I did cook a pot of chili and I took the christmas tree down and packed everything away. It seemed like it was only up a short while.

Todays selection for the Crazy 15 Challenge is Heart of America by Little House Needleworks. I have had this kit for a couple years and I really don't know why it took me so long to start it. I am loving the colors already.

Heart of America
Little House Needleworks
32 Count Linen
Crescent Colors Floss

I have to start being more careful when I purchase kits. The suggested fabric for this was 30 Count Creek Red Brown Linen from R&R. I had a hard time trying to get the true color in the pics.
I am not sure what they put in the kit but it is a brown linen and I am sure it is 32 Count. I am not really fond of it but I went ahead with it cause I have went overboard finding fabric and floss to stitch my Fifteens.

Well on to greater things tomorrow. Hmmm wonder what I will choose for Day 3? I think I will stitch a little more on this but I wanted to take pictures before it got dark.

I have enjoyed reading everyones blogs today and seeing all the pretty things that are being started. It looks like it is going to be a fun year.

Sixteen Birds - Day One

2011-01-01T22:32:00.001-05:00

The year started out in slow motion. For some reason I couldn't get to sleep last night.I spent New Years Eve home alone with Buffy and Abbey. My DS had to work. He works 12 hour shifts 6 pm to 6 am.
When he came home we had breakfast and I slept til 11 o'clock. I watched the Rose Bowl Parade and started stitching the first of my 15 selections for the 2011 Crazy January Challenge

I really like this one and it is going to be hard to put it down and start something else. I am stitching it on 28 Count Lugana over 2 with DMC Floss. I started stitching in the upper left hand corner.

Rosewood Manor
Sixteen Birds

I hope everyone had a Happy New Year and got some stitching done.

Windows of Faith

2010-12-31T18:05:00.000-05:00

On this last day of 2010 I am busy working on my 2011 Crazy January Challenge and getting it organized. I have added a page at the top of the blog with a list of my selections.

I have set up an album for each one so that I can track my progress. The hardest part right now is getting them all kitted up and ready to stitch. lol. I have selected quite a few large projects. Just a couple are smaller and hopefully won't take me long to stitch.

Blue Ribbon Designs - Frolic In The Foliage
Blue Ribbon Designs - Peppermint Twist
Country Cottage Needleworks - Sweet Treats
Carriage House Samplings - Frederick
Carriage House Samplings - Fredericka
Drawn Thread - Real Roses
Jardin Prive - My Lady's Quaker
Jardin Prive - Gentleman Quaker
Little House Needleworks - Heart of America
Rosewood Manor - Sixteen Birds
Sampler Company - Sampler Musings
The Goode Huswife - Ida Mae Crow
The Goode Huswife - Ira Rae Crow
The Goode Huswife - With My Needle
Shakespears Peddler - Magic Garden Sampler

I finished stitching Windows of Faith, Hope and Peace by Primitive Needleworks. I wish I would have stitched it over one, as it turned out larger than I expected. It is too large for an ornament so a frame it is.

Windows of Faith Hope and Peace
Primitive Needleworks
JCS Ornament Issue 2010
28 Count Jobelam
Weeks Dye Works Turkish Red

I am home by myself tonight as Bob has to work. I plan on doing a little stitching and I have the fixings for some Pomegrante martinis. I doubt very seriously if I can stay up to see the New Year in. We plan on going to Vickie's tomorrow after Bob sleeps a while.

If you haven't visited my website please stop by and check it out. The link ts on the side bar.
I have a lot more work to do on it. I have a lot more to add.
I really need to eliminate some of the stash that I have collected over the past 30 years. I don't buy magazines anymore and I must have hundreds, lol. I also have a lot of kits that I bought off of Ebay and never opened.

I wish everyone a Happy New Year.

We Have Snow!

2010-12-26T08:27:00.000-05:00

I found this at 4:30 this morning. It is now 8:00 and it is still snowing. It is really pretty and I am just going to stay in all day and snuggle up by the fireplace with my stitching and enjoy.

We usually have only one snowfall in South Carolina every year. I am wondering if this year is going to be different?
I am going out and take more pictures. This is such a novelty. lol.

`

Christmas Greetings

2010-12-25T11:22:00.000-05:00

Sharing with you the Glory,
the Wonder, the Miracle
of this Holy Season.
Have a Blessed Christmas and New Year.

Is Christmas Really Here?

2010-12-20T17:22:00.000-05:00

I am just checking in for a quick update of what has been going on in my little corner of the world.
I found this little Christmas picture that reminds me of my best friend Gump that I lost a little over 2 years ago. I am always sad this time of year missing him, he loved Christmas so much.
He always had so many packages under the tree and he knew just which ones were his.
He always opened his own gifts and it was so much fun watching him enjoy them.

About a month ago, I quit my job. There was a lot of conflict going on and circumstances were beyond anything I could cope with. I worked there for 9 years. I was semi-retired and only working 28 hours a week to keep my insurance benefits. I finally bit the bullet and said I don't need this stress and quit. So for now I am staying home. I know that I am feeling a lot better although I do miss the gals I worked with.

I have been busy working on my website The Stitcher's Abbey which has been sitting idle for several years. There is also a link on my sidebar. For now I am listing things from my stash that I have collected over the years. Most are things that at one time I thought I might stitch but now don't interest me anymore. A lot of them are things that I purchased to sell on Ebay and my other website that I no longer have. Some of you might remember Millenium Stitchery. I am hoping to get more done and listed but it is a slow progress as I am doing everything myself.

JBW Joy Love Peace
28 Ct. White Jobelan
DMC Floss

I haven't done much stitching. I did finish This Joy Love Peace christmas tree by JBW. I have been stitching on Country Cottage Needleworks-Snowflake Serenade. I was going to take a pic but it really needs to be ironed first. I still have my LHN ornaments waiting to be finished but I just don't feel like tackling them. I don't know why. I keep saying I will do them tomorrow but tomorrow never comes.

I have been taking some time out to organize my craft room. I have been winding floss on bobbins, I am getting tired of searching for floss. I think I only have a couple hundred to go. lol. Then I need to tackle my fabrics. I will never purchase fabric again without labeling it.
Then on to my patterns and my WIP's and my UFO's. Who knows what I might find. I need to find what I want to keep and what I want to sell.

Great Giveaway

2010-12-15T06:36:00.000-05:00

Amy is having a giveaway at Down Sunshine Lane.
Visit her blog to check it out.

A Sheep & A Flake

2010-12-03T09:15:00.000-05:00

It has been so long since I posted on my blog. Time is just flying by so fast. I have set stitching goals for every day and have actually accomlished quite a bit.
I am a little slack on finishing and keep putting it off one more day.
I did manage to finish a couple Little House Ornaments. Just simple finishes cause I haven't been feeling so well.

I wanted to see if I could make some of the patchwork ornaments so I have been trying some of those. It was kind of hard to match up the fabrics with whatI had in my stash but for a first time novice, I think it turned out pretty good.

LHN Winter Sheep
LHN Frosty Flakes
Quilted Christmas Ornament

Little House Needleworks
Winter Sheep
30 Count Straw Linen
DMC Floss

Little House Needleworks
Frosty Flakes
30 Count Straw Linen
DMC Floss

I have also stitched a JBW Christmas Tree and I am thinking of doing a flatfold so I can stand it on the mantel. I changed the colors and used Variegated green floss and pink for the border.
I found the green floss lying on the floor one day (don't know how it got there.) and it looked like such a fun color that I just had to stitch something with it.
Then I searched for a couple hours for DMC 777 and when I finally did find it, it looked awful with the green so I changed to a pretty shade of pink.

That is going to be one project for today plus finishing up Joy To The World by LHN. I also have one snowflake to stitch on Red House in Winter and adding beads to Snowy Pines so I can finish them. It seems like I keep putting of doing this. What in the world is wrong with me? lol

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T08:57:00.000-05:00

Have a blessed Thanksgiving everyone.

The Last One

2010-11-22T16:48:00.000-05:00

I am finally finished with Please Pass the Biscornu. I managed to stitch a biscornu for everyone in the exchange. Two stitchers dropped out and one didn't stitch one for me in return. Which means I came out three short.

All in all though I received some beautiful biscornus and love my collection. Thanks everyone who sent me these gems.

I am happy to be finished stitching biscornus for a while. There are a lot of designs out there that I would love to add to my collection and you can be sure that they will be stitched for me. I have at least 16 of them and they are all exchanges. (In the past 2 years) I think I need at least one that I can say that I stitched and finished. lol.

This one I stitched for Sheila. She has received it and says she likes it.

O Morning Star
The Workbasket
28 count Golden Sand Linen
DMC Floss

I thought I would share with you the biscornu that I received from Sheila. It is one of my favorites. I love the turquoise floss and the design she used. I received this beauty back in January. She also sent along some Crescent Colors.

I have started stitching on LHN Frosty Flake and I am making some progress. I still need to sit down at the sewing machine and do some finishing.

A Stitcher's Companion

2010-11-19T12:33:00.000-05:00

A Stitcher's Companion
Black Bird Designs
32 Count Linen
Gentle Arts-Garden Gate

I finished A Stitcher's Companion by Blackbird Designs today. This was a while in the making as I was busy stitching pumpkins last month. This month I am stitching and finishing Christmas ornaments.

I really enjoyed relaxing and seeing this come together while I was watching TV.
I purchased the frame at Hobby Lobby and painted it with Folk Art Paint Licorice.

These frames are so cute I purchased a few extra the other day. I have Jenny Bean's Christmas Ornament to stitch and it is finished in one of these frames.

Jenny Bean's Christmas Ornament

I really want to start on this one but I am undecided. I really need to stitch the next LHN Ornament Frosty Flakes.

LHN Frosty Flakes

I have to decide pretty soon lol. The clock is ticking. I think I might do the snowman. Or maybe not. Oh for goodness sake I will ponder it some more. In the meantime I have some shopping to do and want to run to the library.

O Morning Star

2010-11-14T18:19:00.000-05:00

O Morning Star
The Work Basket
28 Count Golden Sand
DMC Floss

I have been slowly stitching on this design by The Workbasket.
The yellow was actually supposed to be a lighter color (DMC 677) but it didn't show up well enough on the Golden Sand. Suggested fabric was a little more orange (Lakeside Linen Silver Fir),.

I as going to try and dye some fabric but, decided to go with this piece I found in my stash. I haven't decided what colors I am going to use in finishing but will work at it tomorrow. I am anxious to see how it works out.

I am still stitching on my LHN ornaments. I don't have too much more to stitch on The Merry Skater. It is stitched on 32 count Tumbleweed by Wichelt Imports. I thought I liked it when I first started it but I found out it makes my eyes cross when I try to see the holes. I found that I can see it better in the sunny part of the day.
I missed it today because I took a nap. :-(

I spent most of the day trying to get my scanner to work. I don't know what happened to it but it has gave me a bad headache. I messed around and managed to get my printer to quit working too. My DS came and did a system restore
and now at least I have my printer and my photo imaging back. I have some freebies I want to print. I saw where Karen had stitched them and fell in love.

I really need to get the ball rolling and get some super fast stitching and finishing done.
Stay tuned and we will see what happens.

He's A Flake

2010-11-10T18:19:00.000-05:00

LHN He's A Flake
Week's Dye Works 30 ct.Dove Linen
DMC Floss

I stitched this one up back in April or May and he has been patiently waiting to be finished.
I realized that I hadn't added the beads when I finally found him. Why can't I be better organized?

I still have LHN Snowy Pines. LHN Winter Sheep, LHN Red House In Winter to finish. I am stitching onLHN The Merry Skater and then I believe there are 4 more that I haven't even started.
A stitcher's work is never done. LOL
I didn't get much finishing done today. I spent a couple hours attempting to organize some of my stash and sorting out what I want to keep and what I want to put up for sale.

I have so much Aida fabric and I know that I will never stitch on it again. I have a lot of kits that I need to go through and destash. Most are big projects, cutsie stuff etc that I have no desire to attempt. I am thinking of putting all on Ebay or starting up my website which has been sitting idle for a few years.

I have really enjoyed reading everyones blogs and drooling over all the beautiful things. I have been kind of slack on commenting and I apoligize but I have more time now and promise to let you know when I visit.

Today's Finishes

2010-11-09T16:25:00.000-05:00

I have been sort of busy trying to finish up a few projects that have been lying around for a while. Some of them I am working on the stitching but the biggest pile needs to be finished into ornaments for my tree.

Christmas is creeping up pretty fast and I just need to get the ambition to follow up on these . I did get LHN's Pear Tree stitched into an ornament today. It has been waiting since February. LOL.

LHN Pear Tree
32 count Vintage Light Exampler
Lakeside Linens
DMC Floss

I also got the notion to do some knitting so I am making some dish cloths and washcloths for Christmas gifts. I purchased the orange yarn to knit one with a rubber duck in the middle. But I decided to try just a plain simple one as my first attempt. It was ~~kind~~ a lot of fun but I am a slow knitter and I like to use large needles so things work up fast.
I am definitely going to knit some more of these and I have started a red one with an apple design.

LHN Pear Tree
Orange Knit Dishcloth

I am off to finish up that last biscornu and get it in the mail and if I finish it up before bedtime, I will stitch a little more on my apple. I am anxious to see how it turns out.

Oh Dear! More Pumpkins & Fa La La

2010-10-29T18:42:00.000-04:00

I am so excited and happy to receive these goodies from Iza aka 5Horizons . This was for the Tiny Treasures Too Pumpkin Exchange.

I really love my Pumpkin Biscornu by The Sweetheart Tree. I have seen this design and was drooling over it, but knew I would never find the time to stitch one for myself.

I also received a beautiful pumpkin coaster and a package of felt balls ( I have an idea how I am going to use them). I forgot to add some orange ribbon to the pic but am going to use it with my ball project.

There were also 7 skeins of hand dyed silk floss that have me itching to use. Four of them are fall colors, which means more pumpkins. I really enjoyed the post card from Poland.

Thank you so much, Iza.

I stitched up this little pillow while I was watching a movie the other night. It is a small design from the leaflet "House of Halloween" by Trail Creek Farm .

The only black fabric I had other than the dreaded Aida was 20 count Lugana. I used DMC Floss and it was kind of fun doing some larger stitches and stitching those wonky hearts. I added some french knots to the pumpkin stem cause it looked kind of plain. I also added some buttons to the corner.

I also started finishing my LHN Ornaments of the Month. I have 6 of them stitched but haven't started finishing them into ornaments. This is mainely due to the fact that I am not sure how I want to do them.

Fa La La
LHN Needleworks
30 count Cappucino Linen
DMC Floss Mill Hill Beads

I made it into a flat ornament and used a beaded twisted cord around the edges. I had purchased some Weeks felt (green) that I at one time thought I would use for backing for all the ornaments. Now I am not so sure as I find it too bulky. I added a red bow but I think I will change it for some twine as soon as I can find some.

I am off to finish up a Breast Cancer Ornament that I stitched up and then if I don't fall asleep I might get some more stitching done.

An Encore Appearance

2010-10-24T06:35:00.000-04:00

Plum Street Samplers
"Take One My Pretty"
40 CT Lakeside Linen
DMC Floss

I think it is time for "Take One My Pretty" to make her second appearance. She made her debut last Halloween and made quite a hit.

When I saw this Tin Topper I just knew I had to stitch one. It is by Plum Street Samplers. It is my first Tin Topper and my first time stitching on 40 ct. I really like it, I have fallen in love.

I did a real simple finish.I used a green Altoid tin so I there was no painting involved. I glued ribbon around the tin and used sticky black felt for the bottom. Oh yes, there are a lot of firsts on this. I actually made the twisted cord though I think it would have been better to use more than two strands of floss.

Inside M&M's in Halloween Colors

Have a great day!

A Couple of Exchanges & Another Tumble

2010-10-22T15:09:00.001-04:00

First off let me say I am a total klutz. I have taken another tumble
This time it was down the steps on the front porch. Yesterday I was sceduled to go to work on the day shift. I had to leave home at 3:30 am.

I haven't gone to work on this shift in almost 2 years.
Anyhoo... we have a yard light and a porch light but still doesn't light up the steps too well. I was going slow and leading off with my right foot going one step at a time (only 4 steps) and thought I was at the bottom.

Next thing I knew I landed on my right knee on the sidewalk and ended up in the flower bed.
I got up and drove the 25 miles to work. I didn't feel too bad but my knee had started stinging and I was worried I had dirt all over my pants. I made my 8 hour shift but everytime I bent over I had excrutiating pains in my chest. I feel better today just stiff and sore.

I called off work today and am lying around doing some stitching and resting. I don't go back till Monday so hopefully I will be much better.

I have finished a couple of Exchanges. The first one is another Biscornu that I made for Mayte.

Pink Biscornu adapted from
Pappilon Creations
28 Ct Jobelan
Weeks Dye Works Floss

I wanted to stitch something pink, so I dyed a piece of fabric and chose some floss. I wasn't too sure that the design would show up, but once I got it put together I think it turned out okay. I added some white beads around the edges so it wouldn't look so plain.

I am totally satisfied with how it turned out and Mayte has received it and says she likes it. So now I am stitching one more biscornu and then I am finished with this exchange. I have received some lovely biscornus from the ladies that participated and really love them all. I have them displayed in a basket.

The next Exchange is a pinkeep. I don't want to reveal who it is for yet because I haven't heard whether it has arrived or not. I mailed it on October 4th and it has a ways to go around the world. I hope it makes it.

With my Needle -
Quaker Schoolgirl Needle Necessities
28 Ct Jobelan
DMC Floss

That's all folks. I have stitched another pumpkin ornament and am in the process of finishing it. I am thinking of using some of the ruched ribbon on it and I am finishing up stitching a breast cancer design. I can't wait to see how it turns out.

Until later, may the stitch be with you,

A Bit Of October

2010-10-10T15:04:00.001-04:00

Lizzie Kate "A Bit of October"
28 Ct Linen DMC Floss

I finished up another pumpkin pillow today. This one is A Bit Of October by LK. I kind of liked the colors as they were a little different from traditional.

I was at JoAnnes to pick up some stash and found this fabric. I hadn't stitched up the design yet and didn't have anything to go by but I was hoping it would be perfect. I am happy the way it turned out although the pumpkin has a purple mouth. I couldn't think of any other color to use so there you go lol.

Small buttons were supposed to be sewn on the corn but these were the smallest ones I could find. I left them off the corn and stitched them on the pillow instead.

A Bit Of October
Front View

A Bit Of October
Back View

I also finished another Biscornu for an exchange. I will post it when it has arrived at it's new home. I am still working to finish up Red House In Winter by LHN. I really want to get it finished so I can start on the next LHN ornament. I have 6 of them stitched but still need to finish them into ornaments. One of these days I keep thinking I will gather them all up and get them done.

Another Boo

2010-10-04T18:14:00.000-04:00

HE BOO
32 Ct. Hand Dyed Fabric
DMC & Crescent Colors
10/04/2010

I saw this cute design and just knew I had to stitch one up for my collection. I found a scrap of 32 count fabric in my stash. After I stitched everything but the pumpkin, I was thinking it needed a little color so I stitched him with a Crescent Colors orange and added a green stem.

The fabric is more of a tan or beige color than in the picture. I found some spider web fabric with little pumpkins to finish it up. I added some orange ribbon and sewed on a black button to dress it up. The backing fabric is orange. I sewed another black button on the back to attach the ribbon hanger.

I had an exchange to get in the mail today, so I didn't get much stitching done. I made a stop at Hobby Lobby and picked up some buttons and ribbons. Then home to cook an early supper so Bob could go to work and now I have to clean up the kitchen and then I will be free to stitch on Red House. WooHoo!

No I Did Not and A Red House

2010-10-03T19:22:00.000-04:00

No I did not stitch the darling pumpkins in my header. I went searching for a pumpkin picture and found this one. I agree they are so cute and I really wish I could take credit for them.

My fur babies sit and watch down the road when it is time for me to come home from work. They are so precious. They normally don't get this close, least ways not when I am home. I think there is a little sibling rivalry lol.

Miss Abbey & Buffy

Miss Abbey

Buffy

I have been stitching on LHN Red House in Winter today. I have made quite a bit of progress. Hopefully I will finish it tomorrow. I am trying to get caught up with these ornaments. This one seems to be the most detailed one left to do.

LHN Red House In Winter
All Dolled Up

Progress 10/03/2010

I took the pictures with my phone cause it is dark outside. They turned out okay but just noticed the tree trunk is a little crooked, maybe there is a north wind blowing. lol.
I am off to see if I can get the house finished before I call it a night.

Three Happy Dances & Other Things

2010-10-01T21:02:00.001-04:00

Myra's Give Away

I received my goodies from Myra . I was very lucky to win her blogoversary and birthday giveaway. In the box that the post lady brought I found all these beautiful things.

A zipper bag made by Myra in a colorful fall fabric.
A cute gift bag stuffed with candy corn and pretty variegated floss
A Tin Topper pattern by Sampler and Such
A pumpkin pin cushion stuffed with walnut shells
A tissue cover stitched with music note fabric
A piece of linen fabric
And a darling little bird all dressed up for Halloween
A beautiful candle mat with scented candle

Thank you Myra, you have certainly brought a lot of sunshine and happiness into my life.

Biscornu from Nita
Anne Les Petite Croix
"Carre Fleuri"

The Post Lady also brought me this lovely Biscornu from Nita . This was for Please Pass the Biscornu Exchange. I have seen this jewel and admired it and I am so thrilled. Thank you Nita, I love it

Tiny Treasures Too
Pinkeep
from Amanda

The Post Lady brought me a third package from Amanda. This one came all the way from Italy. It is such a gorgeous pinkeep. It is stitched on Fratelli Graziano linen. I have never seen it before but the little cherub looks lovely stitched on it. I love the way she entwined the ribbons around the edges and such a pretty color of blue.

On the stitching front I am making great progresss, I am finishing up another biscornu and have a pinkeep ready to get in the mail. I also have my pumpkin exchange stitched and ready to finish so it can be on it's way.
I have two pumpkin, fall ornaments ready to be finished so I can add them to my collection. Hopefully over the weekend I can get these done.

I also saw a tutorial for crocheted ricrac. Want to give that a whirl. I looked at Hobby Lobby for orange or fall colored crochet thread. I couldn't find any so picked up some red. I figured I could use for Christmas ornaments.

We went to Golden Corral to eat and I am stuffed and ready to sprawl on the sofa.

By The Full Moon

2010-09-22T07:37:00.000-04:00

By the Full Moon - Ink Circles
2010 JCS Halloween Issue
28 ct. grey fabric
DMC Floss

I have finished Full Moon. I really had fun with this one, though I did get kind of tired of the black tree.

I wanted to finish it like the suggested finish so I went in search of purple felt and black bead trim. I couldn't find the lighter color felt but I think I like the bright purple better after all.

I had bead trim in my stash but not black so I was afraid I wasn't going to find it. I just didn't relish the thought of stitching one bead at a time, lol. JoAnn's didn't let me down. WooHoo!

By the Full Moon

I finished my Mystery Stitch Biscornu. I stitched this for someone and I won't reveal their name until they receive it.

Gitta's Designs 2008
32 ct. fabric
DMC Floss

It took me a couple more days than I anticipated but it is ready to go in the mail. I have two more biscornus to stitch and then I am finished for a while.

With Miss Abbey's Treat Jar

I have finished stitching another Halloween design and started another. I am on a roll here. Just trying to keep up with all those fast stitchers out there. lol

Have a great day everyone and may the stitch be with you today.

La D Da & A Mystery Stitch

2010-09-12T11:25:00.000-04:00

La D Da Biscornu
JCS Christmas Preview Issue

I received this lovely biscornu from Marjorie for the Please Pass the Biscornu Exchange.
I just love it as I am a La D Da fan. She did a fabulous job, her stitching is exquisite as is her finishing.
The over dyed floss she selected is such a pretty fall color, it reminds me of the leaves that are beginning to fall in my yard.

Thank you so much Marjorie, I am so happy to add it to my collection.

Mystery Stitch
For an Exchange

I started stitching this design for someone that should have been finished by the 1st of the month, but I got so involved with my Halloween stitching I just didn't get it done. I am hoping to have it finished by Monday (oh my goodness, that is tomorrow) Hmmmmmm I am going to have to get my needles flying. lol.

Stay tuned to see if I accomplish this goal and see it finished up. I have so many things to stitch and deadlines to meet.

Pinkeep Exchange
Pumpkin Exchange
Please Pass The Biscornu
Finish Pansy Biscornu
Finish LHN Ornament of Month designs by Christmas
Stitch something from the new JCS ornament Issue

I could continue but I am getting freaked out. lol Very scary.

May the stitch be with you...........

Queen Bee Giveaway Winner

2010-09-10T09:23:00.000-04:00

I want to thank everyone for all the lovely comments on my little pillow. I really enjoyed stitching it and sharing it as a giveaway for my second blogoversary. Wish I could have stitched one for everyone of you. You are all fantastic!

I started out with a small basket for the drawing but had to find a larger one as the little one over flowed.

The winner is Mare of Mare's Runaway Needle. Congratulations Mare, as soon as I hear from you with your snail mail I will send your pillow to it's new home.

Tricks or Treats & Boo

2010-09-08T17:57:00.000-04:00

I have been stitching a few Halloween ornaments. Wow! Looking at the picture that is a lot of purple. lol. I dyed a couple small pieces of fabric.
I basically wanted a purple to stitch Tricks or Treat by Val's Stuff. The design is in the new JCS Halloween Issue. I thought it was so cute and colorful. I used all the pretty Crescent Colors and stitched it up while I watched a movie.
I finished stitching it Sunday and had to wait til Tuesday to get the candy corn buttons. I couldn't find the right color ribbon at WalMart so I went to the new JoAnn's today and decide on lime green. I am not sure if I like it or not, it looked wacky (?) so I stuck some purple pins around the edge.

This was the first time I tried the ruched ribbon. It doesn't look very professional but, for the first attempt it will pass. Definitely wouldn't win any gold stars upon close inspection. lol.

I didn't know how to finish Boo as it was so small, it must have been 32 count fabric so I finished it into a small pillow ornament. I found a small candy button (tootsie roll?) to attach the polka dot ribbon hanger.

OMG.....I forgot the hanger on Tricks or Treat. Now I have to figure that one out.

I want to thank everyone for all the comments on my "Queen Bee" pillow. There is still time to enter the drawing. I am going to pick the winner this coming Friday. You can leave a comment on my previous post.
Good luck to everyone.

Hugs,

The Queen Bee Give Away

2010-09-03T18:31:00.000-04:00

I can hardly believe that my blog is two years old. I have had a great time posting and sharing my love of cross stitch. I cherish each and everyone of you that visit my blog and leave comments to inspire me so I stitched up a little something to giveaway in honor of my blogoversary.
I have had limited computer access so I am a little late getting this started. My blogoversary is in 5 days but I am going to run it a little longer to give everyone a chance to enter.

The Queen Bee-JBW

28 ct. Cream Linen

Sampler Thread-Brandy

If you would like a chance to win please leave a comment on this post by September 10th on which day I will draw a winner. Become a follower and get a second chance.(If you are already a follower mention it in your comment) Post about my giveaway on your blog and get a third chance.
Thanks everyone and good luck!

I Am Finally Back Online

2010-08-31T10:12:00.001-04:00

I have had a miserable two weeks. Haven't been able to get on line properly. Hopefully all will be working better now as we went back to our old service. We live in such a rinky dinky area we don't have much choice.

I have been wanting to start my blogoversary giveaway but haven't been able to post anything. They had it so slowed down that it took ten minutes for a page to load.

I have to work tonight, actually have to be there in an hour so maybe tomorrow I will have everything up and running.
I have been stitching some Halloween ornies and stitched some on Pumpkins For Sale by LHN.

Singing The Blues

2010-08-19T15:13:00.000-04:00

LHN Singing the Blues

28 Ct Lambswool Jobelin

Crescent Colors

I finished stitching Singing the Blues by Little House Needleworks. I purchased the pattern at Everything Cross Stitch in Fredericksburg while I was on vacation.
I checked into the suggested frame from Crescent Colors and thought I would splurge and order it, but almost went into cardiac arrest when I saw the cost. lol.
I found a 7 inch square frame on line that I am going to order.

Spring Biscornu

Cedar Hill

I am stitching on Spring Biscornu by Cedar Hill. It is going to be larger than any I have made so far but I love pansies and am looking forward to finishing it up and seeing the results.

I have actually finished another pansy and one of the leafs since I took this picture. I am stitching on 32 count fabric from R&R so I think that will make it a little smaller. The instructions for putting it together are as clear as mud, lol and if I didn't know how to finish a biscornu I wouldn't have a clue.

I have my 2 year blogoversary coming up in 20 days and I am working on a giveaway so be sure to check back and enter to win.

Winter Sheep & A Small Update

2010-08-07T09:31:00.000-04:00

LHN Winter Sheep

30 ct.Straw Linen

DMC Floss

I have been have finished stitching quite a few things but this is all I have a picture of. It is LHN Winter Sheep which is part of the All Dolled Up Ornament of the Month by LHN. I finished stitching it last month while on vacation in Virginia. I purchased the little cardinal button while there. I sewed him on upside down lol and then couldn't figure out why he didn't look like a cardinal.

I am behind in stitching these ornaments and have signed up for automatic shipping of the new ones as they come out each month. I have 4 in my stitching basket that need to be started on ASAP or they will not be ready to put on my tree.

I have a biscornu to put together for an exchange to send to Gillie and I am about to finish stitching Singing the Blues by LHN and then I am going to try to get caught up with the ornaments. I love the latest one "Peppermint Twist" but I want to stitch them in order so this one is really calling to me. Maybe it will motivate me to get my needles humming. LOL.

I just can't seem to get the camera and take pictures. It seems like all I can manage is my 4 days at work and spending my time stitching, reading, watching TV and mainly resting and sleeping.

Virginia Welcome Center

Buffy & Me

This picture was taken at the Virginia Welcome Center. She was a little trooper bearing the heat, but I am sure she had a good time.

I need to head off to work. I am missing a Stitchin at Amy's today. I will surely mis the girls and the fun but we are short handed and my boss is in Detroit.

Hanging On

2010-07-29T04:27:00.000-04:00

It has been so long since my last post and a long time since I have felt like sitting at the computer.
I slipped in the fur babies water and landed on my back.
Since then I have spent 12 hours in the ER with infectious diarrhea. Don't know where I got it but they wanted to put me in the hospital. Vomiting and bloody diarrhea.
That was the day we started on vacation to West Virginia. We left on Monday and I started vomiting so we turned around and came back home.
We left again on Tuesday, I was feeling much better. We still had a nice vacation but was hard riding as my back was hurting from the fall.
I visited several LHN's and picked up some stash, mostly fabric and floss as I have so many designs I want to stitch. I did get a new biscornu pattern and started stitching on it. Real pretty with pansies and an alphabet.
I have been stitching and doing nothing but staying in bed or resting and trying to get over this nausea which is still lingering.
As soon as I feel up to it I will get pics taken and show you the latest.

One That Made It

2010-07-07T18:57:00.001-04:00

Clover Biscornu

28 ct Jobelin

Mill Hill Beads

DMC Variegated Floss

I am happy to say that this Biscornu made it thru the mail system! Is that a miracle or what?
I stitched this one for Michelle The Shabby Stitcher.

It was a fun stitch and worked up fast and easy. I think I might do some more stitching along this type of design.

I finished reading "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo" and I am going to finish watching the movie tonight. I am glad I read the book first so it is easier to follow what is going on. I fell asleep on it this afternoon. It is in Swedish and has English subtitles. I am about half way through the second book "The Girl Who Played With Fire".

There is not much going on here tonight, I am alone with the fur babies. I am trying to finish up LHN Winter Sheep ornament. I started it at work last night on my break.

I am using 30 ct Straw from R&R and Dmc Floss.
It seems it is going to be a fast stitch cause I did this much in 30 Minutes.I am about 4 behind now. I really need to get caught up if I am going to have them done by Christmas.

I also need to get out the sewing machine and do something with my Fourth of July Bird. I have the backing fabric picked out and ready to finish. I added the red and blue star buttons because I couldn't tackle the crazy star stitch on the pattern lol.

Fourth of July Bird by HIH

I am getting to feel a little bad sitting here, my sinuses are bothering me today. So I am signing off for now. Hope everyone had a great day!

Happy 4th of July

2010-07-04T17:18:00.000-04:00

I finished Glory Fob by Shepherd's Bush. I really like how it turned out with the RicRac and beads. I am finishing the stitching on 4th of July Bird by Bent Creek. I will be a little late getting it made into a pillow but at least I can say I finished it on the 4th.

I made homemade South Carolina Mustard Based BBQ Sauce and we are having BBQ pork and slaw, baked beans.

Have to run a movie back to Red Box and going to Dairy Queen for ice cream. Then I am going to relax for the rest of the day.

Hope everyone is having a great day.

Lost Again?

2010-06-30T08:09:00.000-04:00

I have been enjoying the hot summer days, if you can believe that. Time being spent cooling off in the pool and stitching in the comfort of air conditioning lol. Also enjoying quite a few naps in between.

Also I am being interrupted by having to go to work every now and then and spend my time there counting the hours until I can be home again.
I don't have a hard job but sometimes I allow myself to get a little stressed out which is not good.

I have been watching a few old classic movies. We watched "The Long Trailer" with Lucille Ball and Desi Arnez. Got a few laughs out of that one. Last night I started stitching" 4th of July Bird" by Bent Creek and watched "By the Light of the Silvery Moon" with Doris Day.

I don't know if I will get it finished by the 4th, but at least I will be able to add him to my short collection. I stitched "Glory Fob" by Shepherd's Bush and hope to get it finished today before I go to work. It should turn out real cute, it has red ric rac and beads around the edges. I am anxious to see it and will show pics.

I stitched Dragonfly Freebie by La D Da and made it into a biscornu for Please Pass the Biscornu Exchange. So I have another LOST AGAIN.

I don't know why I have such luck. It was mailed on June 9th with a delivery confirmation.
According to USPS tracking, it was delivered on June 12th at 2:12 PM. It wasn't received so where in the heck is it?

Dragonfly Freebie by La D Da

28 ct. Jobelan by Wichelt

DMC Floss

Having trouble with pop ups from some French site....GRRRR. I can't figure out where they are coming from. My pop up blocker is on. I have deleted my temporary files and cookies. It only happens when I am on my blog. I have run my anti virus. Very irritating. I know have 2 more. don't know where I picked this up.

Well, now I am stressed out for the day and have wasted some time when I could have been finishing my fob. Hope the rest of the day goes better.

Shores of Hawk Run Hollow

2010-06-16T05:31:00.000-04:00

Finally I have finished Block 1 of Shores. Now on to Block 2. I don't think it will take me as long as the lighthouse.

I am on the second day of stitching and relaxing until I have to return to work. (sigh) I am still looking for a frame for Three Crows. I have been to three Goodwills.

I saw some hand framed cross stitch that someone had stitched. Most were Cherished Teddies and Alma Lynn Angels. They were stitched on 18 count aida and most of them had stains on them.

Also I saw a huge design stitched on the 18 count and framed in a 12 x 16 frame. It was a cross stitchers prayer or something similar. $1.50 I started to get it and see if I could tea dye it and reframe it but I just don't like the Aida. Any ways somebody put a lot of work into these and it is a shame they ended up at the Goodwill.

I couldn't sleep so am going to go and try again before daylight. My throat is sore. Hope I am not catching anything.

Elizabethan Needle Cushion

2010-06-11T19:50:00.000-04:00

I have received my biscornu for May from Michelle .

She stitched for me a design from Shepherd's Bush "Elizabethan Needle Cushion". I love the pastel colors of the flowers and the heart button. The beads really make it extra pretty.

The back is just as beautiful as the front with the sweet pea colored flowers and beads. I love Shepherd's Bush designs and this is the first one in my collection.

Thanks so much Michelle, I will treasure it always.

Three Crows have Landed

2010-06-10T21:40:00.000-04:00

Three Crows

The Goode Husewife

NPS 40 ct. Linen

I finished stitching Three Crows and I would like to frame them and have been searching for a frame. Hopefully I will find one. I don't really want an ornament or pillow. I haven't seen any finished either way so I have nothing to go by.

I have mailed the biscornu for May to my partner and she should receive it in the next few days and I can post some pictures.

Friday Progress

2010-05-28T20:24:00.000-04:00

I have really enjoyed the past two days of rest.
I got quite a few hours of stitching in.

Also i enjoyed cooling off in our new pool. We got a float for Buffy but I don't think she enjoys it much. She likes to be with us but it is too hot for her. So far she hasn't jumped out. LOL.

Buffy Pool

The weather has been pretty. we got a little shower of much needed rain this afternoon. The honeysuckle is blooming and my allergies are kicking in.

I watched a movie from Red Box and stitched on the blue water on Shores of Hawkrun Hollow. I thought I would be able to finish it up but there are so many blue stitches. But I can see the end...............one more rock, a few stitches to finish up the birds and than the rest of the water.

The picture is not too good, I used my Blackberry because it has a better flash than my camera.

I am stitching it on 40 ct.Sand Dune from Lakeside Linen with DMC Floss. I wish I could afford to use NFS .

I am using it for the first time to stitch Three Crows by The Goode Husewife and I really love it.

I am loving to stitch the crows. I used a small piece of 40 ct. Light Exampler from Lakeside Linens. I wanted to stitch the other crow and finish it up, but haven't worked on Shores for a while and I am anxious to start on Block 2. Well, they are both in the final stages.

May the stitch be with you

Strawberry House and Organizing

2010-05-28T09:02:00.000-04:00

I am doing a Happy Dance! I have finally finished something for myself.

I had so much fun stitching this that it has been just about all I worked on.
I want to thank Berit for giving me the Crescent Colors. I simply love the Lady Bug color.

I went to Michaels and bought an unpainted 5x7 wood frame and some hunter green paint. It came with a glass but I didn't use it cause I think it took away from the design. The picture doesn't show the true green color.

LHN Strawberry House

28 ct. Linen

Crescent Colors-DMC

Finished 5/20/2010

I also found a great way to organize my projects that i have ready kitted up to stitch. I was at Walgreens and found these plastic folders that fit in a three ring binder. They expand and have a snap closure. They are less than $2.00 each and I snatched up about half a dozen to see how they worked out.

I am going back to stock up in case they quit selling them which seems to happen a lot.

Sampler Musings-Brenda Keyes

Red House In Winter-LHN

Pineapples- LHN

Plums-LHN

These are just 4 of my To Do projects. I just wish it didn't take me so long to get to them. lol.

I am stitching on Three Crows by The Goode Husewife. I am using NPS silk floss and I am loving it. I am not sure how I am going to finish it but hoping I can find a frame. Too late to take a picture today but I am half way there.

I am home alone until tomorrow so I am trying to figure out what I want for dinner. Would like to have some hot wings but don't feel like driving 20 miles to get them. Guess I will search and see what I can find at home and watch some TV and get in a few more stitches.

Just A Little Venting

2010-05-16T05:56:00.000-04:00

Another reason for going exchangeless.

I really think for the most part exchanges are fun and most everyone is considerate and lets you know that they receive what you stitch for them whether they like it or not.

I understand that life gets in the way sometimes but how long does it take to send a quick email? It has been 2 weeks since I mailed an exchange and I know it has arrived as it only had a short way to go.

Just a little frustrated.

Busy Days Not Much Time

2010-05-13T21:29:00.000-04:00

I have been having fun stitching up a few new things even though it has been a very trying and tiring week.

It was inventory time at work and I put in some long hours and an extra day. Pay check might look good but, I sure am tired.

I found a skein of brown DMC variegated floss and for some reason I was in a brown mood.
LOL. I found a piece of 25 count Mushroom Lugana and some brown buttons and beads.
This looked like the perfect design as I was also in a flowery mood. (Tired of hearts and diamonds)

I finished it into a Biscornu. It was the first time I added beads when joining. I tried something new and stuffed it with crushed walnut shells. I am definitely going to be using them again in the future.

I am almost finished with Strawberry House by LHN. That is all I have been stitching on this week and hope to get it finished and framed.

Happy Stitching Everyone!

J Is For Joyce

2010-05-04T16:34:00.001-04:00

I had 2 days off from work and stitched up this cute little pin keep for one of my co-workers. I found a cute Half Doll Alphabet on Meridel Abram's blog, The Merry Wanderer. (Note: I went to her blog and she has redone it and couldn't find them.)

I think they are just darling and make quick stitches for gifts.
I plan to do quite a few more of them.

I stiched her on 28 Ct Luguana with DMC Variegated Floss. I added white picot ribbon and pearl beads. I think the fabric on the back matches pretty well. BTW the pictures are clickable.

I have the Letter B printed out. Guess who that one will be for? LOL.

I stitched a little on Shores until I had to get up and give Buffy her bath. I am getting pretty good at grooming her if I may brag a little bit.

If you look close you may see my Shores in the background. I still have all that water to stitch, but I am getting there. I am looking forward to Block Two.
I am anxious to stitch that seahorse and the mermaid.

Miss Abbey had to get her oicture taken too. LOL

I have been home for two days and now I have to venture out.
Probably Walmart and maybe Payless. I need a pair of sandals.
I am in the mood for hot wings so probably Zaxby's for dinner.

Happy Stitching everyone!

A Biscornu of a Different Color

2010-05-03T15:04:00.000-04:00

I received April's Biscornu from Gillie. I am so happy to receive such an exquisite biscornu. The colors are so pretty and the stitching is so dainty.
I couldn't get a good pic because it is cloudy today. Wish you could see it in person.
She didn't specify the fabric or floss color she used but it looks like 32 count.
She also sent me three pieces of fabric to add to my stash.
Thanks so much Gillie

Exchanges Fini

2010-04-26T07:33:00.000-04:00

My last two Exchanges have arrived in there new homes. I am still participating in Please Pass The Biscornu but as for now I am not committing to anything else.

I have so many things in my stash that I want to stitch that I am going to concentrate solely on them. Exchanges are so much fun and it is nice to receive those surprise packages in the mail but for now I am going to hold off for a couple months.

I stitched an Altoid Tin Topper for Amanda in Italy. She was my partner in Tiny Treasures Too
It was a fun easy stitch and wasn't hard to finish at all.
I made the twisted cord to match and selected the black fabric to accent the tiny bit of black in the design. I couldn't find the scissors I wanted to use but I think the gold ones are okay.

I attached a magnet strip for needles and sent a South Carolina refrigerator magnet. I am really happy that it made it's journey safely although it took almost 3 weeks. Talk about stress lol.

Samplers & Such March Tin Topper

28 Count Jobelin

DMC Floss

The Biscornu that I stitched for Marjorie also arrived safely in California. I chose a design from a Russian website, not sure which one I found it on. I stitched our initials on the back

28 count white Jobelan and
Crescent Colors Bethlehem

I am not feeling too well again today but have to work tonight. going back to bed until time to leave. Hope everyone has a good stitching day!

One last note, I have been stitching on my Shores but I don't have an update picture.

A New Look & a Giant Headache

2010-04-20T21:28:00.001-04:00

I have a major headache. I tried for several hours to download a new template. Grrrr!

I backed up the old one and made absolute sure that I had it right. I should have removed the old background first cause when I installed the new template I had problems. It wouldn't let me remove it and before I knew it my blog was gone.

I put the old one back and when I tried to open it brought up a blank page. I was having frantic fits but after spending the whole afternoon , I finally succeeded.

Don't know for absolute sure how it is going to work but I am happy everything is still here.

And so am I. lol

It's A Topper

2010-04-20T04:41:00.005-04:00

I received a beautiful tin topper from Andrea. She lives in Idaho close to my hometown, Burley.

She stitched a pretty hardanger design on lavender fabric. (One of my favorite colors.)

I really like hardanger and I don't have any in my collection so this is special to me. On the inside of the tin is a smaller design personalized with my name.

The tin is finished with a pretty coordinating fabric and green ribbon and beads. And to top it off a pair of Little Gems purple scissors that I have been wishing for. How great is that?

Thanks Andrea,

A New Cutie Arrives

2010-04-19T14:07:00.003-04:00

Oh My Goodness!

I received my March Biscornu for Please Pass the Biscornu.
Despina stitched for me this exquisite dainty biscornu.
She used pink gingham fabric which I think was made for the design she selected.
The spider web roses are awesome and the little scissors in the center are soooo
cute.

Thank you Despina, I love it!

Long Overdue

2010-04-10T18:19:00.008-04:00

Wow time does fly by.It has been two weeks since I went to Amy's for a stitching day.

I rode there with Karen from Karen's Handiwork.
I got to meet a lot of stitching friends and had a lot of fun visiting and stitching.

I finished stitching the biscornu I was doing for and exchange. Time since I have finished it into a biscornu and sent it to my partner in California. I will post pics as soon as she receives it.

I also finished stitching "He's a Flake" the ornament of the month from Little House Needleworks. I still haven't added the beads. The fabric is more of a light green color, I couldn't get a good pic of it. The beads are to be added on the tree.

"He's A Flake"
28 ct Green Lugana
Mill Hill Beads
DMC Floss

While at Amy's I used my gift certificate from Berit and got my Crescent Colors . I am so happy to get these and can't wait to start stitching on the designs I chose. Thank you again Berit.

I chose LHN "Strawberry House" stitched on 28 count brown linen. I really like this design with the crow and the strawberries. The colors look so yummy.

LHN Strawberry House

Crescent Color Floss

I like pineapples so I chose LHN "Pineapples". Here are pics of the finished Pineapple and the Cresceent Colors and fabric I chose.

Did you notice I slipped my TUSAL in the last pic? Killing 2 birds with one stone, as the saying goes. LOL.

Okay, the main reason I haven't been around much is because I have started "Shores of Hawk Run Hollow" by CHS. I purchased the fabric while I was at Amy's. I started on the first block and so far have almost 12 hours stitching. It seems to be going pretty slow but it is on 40 ct.Sand Dune from Lakeside Linens.

Shores of Hawk Run Hollow

Block one-12 hours

Signing off for now.

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T05:56:00.004-04:00

Wishing everyone a Blessed and Happy Easter.

Sunshine & Exchanges Received

2010-03-23T11:00:00.007-04:00

The sun is shining today but, it is quite windy. I have the day off and am anxious to work on finishing up my Altoid Tin so I can get it in the mail tomorrow. Also I am stitching another biscornu and I am getting a good start on "Peppermint Twist" by Blue Ribbon.

Just got back from Lexington. I had to run some papers over to the Doctors to be filled out.
Every year at open enrollment on our insurance at work we get a wellness paper to be filled out by our doctor. There are 4 things on it and we get $500 taken off our deductible for each one we pass.

Tobacco Use
Blood Pressure
Cholesterol
Body Mass Index.

So far I have been passing all 4.

Shay has received her Easter Ornament that I stitched for her. I saw this cute chick on someone's blog and it looked like so much fun that I decide to stitch it for Shay.

"Spring Chick" by Waxing Moon. I dyed some 28 ct. Jobelan and chose a pretty pink color.
I used DMC Floss in the designated colors and made some twisted cord with DMC 725.
The green bow matches the bright green polka dot fabric that I used for backing.
I thought I had taken more pics but, this is the only one I found. I am happy that Shay likes it as I really enjoyed stitching her up.

I haven't heard from Leeanne, but I am pretty sure she has received the biscornu I stitched for her. She has been busy getting ready to move and I know how that is. lol. Please Pass the Biscornu 2010

"Hearts & Beads"
Polstitches
28 ct. Jobelan
CC- Cottage Garden

Our initials on the back
I just reversed them. lol

Top View

Bottom View

So after I tried to post this once and it didn't publish or save, I am trying again.

An Easter Ornament & New Things

2010-03-16T07:03:00.007-04:00

I received my Easter ornament from Berit. This was for the Holiday Exchange. It is so pretty and beautifully finished. I love the colors and the design she chose.

"Strawberry Summer Sampler"
C Street Needleworks
28 ct Cashel "Fog" from
Picture This Plus
GAST & DMC Floss

She also sent a darling note with black kitties on it. I am fascinated by her handwriting. It is beautiful. I might just frame it. lol.

Thanks so much Berit.

We rode up to Rock Hill yesterday and on the way home I received a very special Easter gift. Berit gave me a $15.00 gift certificate from Down Sunshine Lane .
Thank you so much Berit. You are the bestest!

I picked up some new stash at the Stitch & Frame Shop. I didn't really get what I was searching for, lol. but I did find a few things that I had to have.

I thought this little design by Hinzeit was cute and will be a simple fun stitch for a pinkeep. I may make several in different colors.

I saw that someone was stitching "Be Kind & True" by With My Needle & Thread and kind of fell in love with it. Don't know when I will get to start it but at least I will have it when I find time.

I really like 28 ct Lugana so I picked up a piece of Lambswool and can't wait to find the perfect design to stitch on it.

I have finished up the February Biscornu (a little late) I know Leeanne is waiting on it. I will post pics as soon as she receives it. I have 10 more biscornus to stitch and I picked a couple skeins of Weeks Bethlehem. I think it will make a pretty biscornu.

I was lucky to find some Weeks Dye Works wool to use for the backing on my LHN Ornament of the Month series. I picked a dark green and I think it will match all the ornaments. It does so far.
I have Fa La La and Pear Tree stitched and am working on He's A Flake.

I always like to try new fabrics and these 2 are just big enough to stitch an ornament or pinkeep.
I love the colors. The fabric is 30 count.

Have so many things to start and finish. I have a altoid tin that I need to stitch for an exchange. That is my top priority and I have the design all picked out. Shouldn't take me long for this one and the I can do some finishing and get my LHN ornaments done.

Love and Laughter

2010-03-05T16:59:00.006-05:00

I have received another beautiful gift in the form of a biscornu. Mayte stitched this for me for the Please Pass the Biscornu exchange.

"Love and Laughter"
by VK Company
Lugana Fabric
Hand Dyed Dragon Floss

She stitched our initials on the back along with the year
and she added cute pink bows and beads to each corner.

Mayte, thanks so much for the beautiful biscornu to add to my collection.

A Snowman Arrives In Australia

2010-02-22T20:54:00.003-05:00

The snowman ornament that I stitched for my partner Annette, The Seaside Stitcher has arrived in his new home. Annette likes snowmen so she says she is very happy with him.

I liked the design and at first was going to finish him into a heart, than I kind of freaked out cause I wasn't sure about cutting the heart template and didn't want to mess him up. lol

I found some orange fabric in my stash and I think it matches him perfectly. The corners looked bare so I added some orange buttons. I used white twisted cord and added a white pull bead on the hanger.

Val's Stuff - Snow Pals
28 ct even weave
DMC Floss

I am still busy stitching on my Pear Tree by LHN. It is my work project and I haven't been able to stitch on it much because we have been working shorter hours. I hope to be finished tomorrow so I can start on the 3rd ornament, LHN He's A Flake.

For about a week most all flights were canceled because of the snow in Washington and Philadelphia. Things are getting back to normal now though we did have a few delays.

I have been sitting here for 2 hours getting caught up on my emails and blogs so I guess I better sign off and get some stitching done, maybe find a movie to watch before I get too sleepy.

TUSAL and A Scissor Case

2010-02-19T08:20:00.008-05:00

I am thinking SPRING lol. You can tell by my new background and by my bunny carrying the spring banner. I enjoyed the snow while it lasted and am happy that I got a lot of pics.

I have made a good bit of progress on my TUSAL this month. I have been doing a lot of frogging.

Have you ever had those days when you are stitching along thinking you are making a lot of progress and then suddenly, what the heck is this? A darn frog and it is way back from an hour or so. And there you go, back to square one.

I have started stitching one of Nora Corbett's Alphabet Fairies. I decided on the letter B for obvious reasons. And I like the colors. It is really quite simple but after I had stitched a good bit on her wings, I found I was off one stitch. I was going to work around it, but ended up frogging it out. I will keep you up to date on my progress.

Lynne has received the scissor case and fob that I stitched for her.My first scissor case. I really thought this would take me a while to stitch but it actually was very fun and easy. Lynne has some good pictures if you would like to take a peek. Tiny Treasures Too.

Scissor Case and Fob
28 ct.Lugana
DMC Variegated Floss

I am of to travel the city today. Have a lot of places to go and things to do. Happy stitching everyone.

We Have Snow and a New Biscornu

2010-02-13T10:42:00.007-05:00

What is this?

First big bunch of snow that I have seen since 1999. It is really pretty, now that I am home and can enjoy it and not be out on the roads. I was at the airport(at work) when it started about 3 pm. I had to stay until 8 o'clock and by that time I was pretty frantic about getting home. I had 25 miles to drive. I do not like driving in South Carolina under these conditions. lol.

I know this may sound a little crazy but when you live in the south, people are not used to driving in snow and there are a lot of accidents and a lot of people getting stuck. Back in 1999 it was snowing bad and it took us 7 hours to go 11 miles.

Anyhow coming home last night was actually okay. There was very few people out and they were driving safely. It was really pretty and the only trouble I had was getting up our driveway which is uphill.

Shay has received the Biscornu I stitched for her for Please Pass the Biscornu.

Design by "Nina Blagova"
28 ct. White Lugana
DMC floss
Mill Hill beads

This was a fun biscornu even know it turned out to be smaller than I anticipated. I guess biscornus come in all sizes. lol.

I am waiting to hear from Lynn in Scotland. She should be receiving the scissor case that i stitched for her. Also, I was late getting Annette's H.A.A.G. ornament in the mail. I didn't like the way the first ornament that I stitched turned out so I stitched another one. I hope she likes it, it is on it's way to Australia. I mailed it two days ago and they told me 5 days but, I don't think so.

I have four projects on the coffee table and I am stitching a little on each one today. It is so bright and sunny from the snow I can see real well and my needles are flying.

A New Scissor Case & A Valentine Freebie

2010-02-05T16:30:00.004-05:00

I received a beautiful Scissor Case from Lynne. This was for the Tiny Treasures Too Exchange.

I have always liked Meri's Scissor designs and so I was really surprised and happy when I saw what she stitched for me.

She also included a pair of scissors.
The case has pretty brown ribbon at the top to tie it closed.
It has a pretty floral lining.

On the back is stitched the name of the scissors. How cute is that?
Note: I used the black fabric in the background to take the picture.
Thanks so much Lynne, I love it.

I stitched up and finished this simple Valentine ornament last night in about an hour while I was waiting for my Bob to come home with my dinner. It is just a simple finish and I am thinking on maybe adding some buttons and tassels to spruce it up a bit.

I didn't have any Valentine fabric on hand but I think this fabric matches pretty well. If you would like a copy of the pattern just click on pattern below for a copy.

I am stitching on "LHN Pear Tree" ornament. I am loving the colors. I also picked up the next ornament which is "He's A Flake". Can't wait to get Started on him. As soon as I get some progress pictures I will post them.

Happy Stitching Everyone,

New Biscornu and Stitching Updates

2010-01-31T10:12:00.003-05:00

Summer Butterfly
28 ct.White Jobelan
DMC Variations #4040

I am the proud owner of this beautiful biscornu stitched for me by Sheila.
This is for Please Pass the Biscornu a year long exchange. This is for January so by the end of the year, I should have a very beautiful collection.

She chose a butterfly design from Alexandria's blog. She added Mill Hill Beads to match. I love the pastel colors. Both of our initials are stitched on the other side.

She also sent me three skeins of Crescent Colors floss which I am so happy to receive.
Thanks so much Sheila.

I am happy to say that I have met all my deadlines. I have finished my scissor holder for Tiny Treasures Too, My biscornu for Shay and am doing the final finishing on my H.A.G.S ornament for Annette. All will go in the mail Tomorrow.

And I have started stitching my LHN Pear Tree. I am really loving it so I will be dedicated to it until I finish.

I have also designed a simple Valentine ornament and want to stitch and finish it so I can share it with you all.

TUSAL 2010 and New Exchanges

2010-01-17T18:23:00.004-05:00

This would be my progress of my Totally Useless SAL for January. I have done a bit of stitching ,but not much in the past 2 weeks.I chose a smaller container this year.

I was fortunate to win a gift certificate at work and I got the jellyfish paper weight with it. It is pretty awesome. It glows in the dark.

I have bronchitis again. I didn't loose my voice completely this time but I have been feeling terrible.

Also I somehow pulled a muscle in my left shoulder and haven't been able to move my arm without screaming. It has been 10 days like this and just today the pain is subsiding a little. I have been doped up with pain killers,muscle relaxers and antibiotics. All I want to do is sleep and that is about all I have done.

I have finished my Chilly's Gift and still have to put him together into an ornament.
I still need to finish Fa La La and make the twisted braid. Also I have the next pattern for Little House Ornament of The Month, "Pear Tree" to stitch.

I have started 3 Exchanges that need to be done by the end of the month. One for Please Pass the Biscornu, One for the H.A.G.S. blog and a scissor pocket for Tiny Treasures Too.

Hopefully I will make the deadlines and I can post lots of pics.

Happy New Year & New Finishes

2010-01-02T10:50:00.010-05:00

I wish everyone the very best in 2010. I surely do not know how the past week has gone by so fast. I had to work New Years Eve and New Years. Not too bad though as there weren't many people flying.

I have finished stitching Little House Needleworks Fa La La as part of the 2010 Ornament a Month SAL. I stitched it on 30 count R&r Cappucino. It was the first time I stitched on30 count.

It turned out larger than I expected, but I am still going to finish it as an ornament. I am going to use wool for the backing fabric (if I can find any). I think it will be prettier using wool than a print fabric. I have the Dmc White Perle Cotton to make the twisted cord.

This was actually a simple stitch but I had trouble and had to frog the left tree not once but twice because I was a half stitch off. I think the Fa La La was what threw me off.

"All Dolled Up"
Little House Needleworks
Fa La La
DMC Floss
30 count Cappucino from R&R

I used french knots for the eyes and a straight stitch for the mouth. I added the called for red Mill Hill Beads.

I have also been wanting Chilly's Gift Freebie by Stitchy Kitty. I think he is just adorable and I wanted to stitch with those funky colors. lol. I have him all most finished and hopefully today I will be done. I really like the 28 count Luguana and I am pretty sure I will be using it again this year.

Chilly's Gift
Stitchy Kitty
28 Blue Luguana
DMC Floss

I will post pictures as soon as I get these two finished. I am going to stitch a scissor pocket for an exchange and am still searching for a pattern. Not having much luck. The ones I find and really like have a lot of speciality stitches. Scary to me. lol.

May the Stitch be with you.

Wishing Everyone A Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T19:18:00.002-05:00

I made a Christmas wish for you,
For a holiday full of pleasure,
Friends and family all around,
And memories to treasure.

I wish for you a Christmas filled
With joyous holiday cheer;
I wish you a Merry Christmas,
And a very Happy New Year!

TUSAL and A John Deere

2009-12-21T08:51:00.007-05:00

First off I want to say that for the time being I am moderating comments on my blog. Someone from China posted about 8 porn comments a couple days ago. They were scattered all the way back to the first of the year. I had to go in and delete them.

Wow! I truly don't know where the time is going. It is zipping by so fast. I am always on the count down on my work schedule. Work three days, off two, work two days, off two and than back to work three days. Does it seem like I am living for my days off? lol.

I just finished my two day weekend and now I have three days to work and am off Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. So that means that the rest of my shopping and stitching is going to have to be done in the mornings before 11 o'clock.

It looks like it is going to be a pretty day today. Temperature is 31 degrees and supposed to get up to 55 degrees. I think I can handle that. lol

I have had fun this year with the Totally Useless SAL that Yoyo has done a fantastic job in starting and organizing. She is continuing the SAL for 2010 and is taking signups now. If you didn't participate this year please stop by and join in the fun. If you did join us this year you need to stop by and sign up for 2010.

It seems like I am always late in posting when the New Moon comes around and Yoyo has to give me a little nudge. So anyhow here is the last Picture of my Kitty Bowl. I wanted to put a red bow around here neck and dress her up for the holidays but, didn't have time to search for ribbon. I collect tins so the poinsettia is the lid to a tin that I am keeping my latest ornament projects in.

BTW, that is a pretty big bowl so give me a break OKAY? I am searching for the perfect container for next year. Maybe a wee tiny one hehe, so it looks like I am making a lot of progress.

One of my coworkers, Rhonda likes John Deere stuff so I went on a mission to find some John Deere fabric. I had in mind to sew up some ornaments but when I got one put together, it didn't show the design at all so I am going what to do? So I just finished it this way. I put dark green fabric on the back and made some twisted braid using green and yellow.

I hope to finish up Cat In Snowman's Clothing and the first ornament in Little House Needleworks Sal by Christmas. I will show some Pictures.

I Am Finally Back-Yippee

2009-12-15T18:11:00.004-05:00

This has been an agonizing 2 weeks. Where we live we have limited internet service and had no option but to use PBT through the telephone company. It was DSL but we weren't really satisfied with it, plus we didn't need the phone that they said we had to have in order to have their internet.

We heard about Wild Blue and ordered it online. They sent the modem and dish a week ago, but we had to wait for someone to come and install it. He came yesterday and installed it and left. Then the computer froze up.

We did a restore and it went through all the processes and said it was successful. Was restarting and a black screen came up and said please wait.......this was about 4 o'clock yesterday and my DS had to go to work so it stayed like that all night until around 10 o'clock this morning and we messed around with it. Had to put in the windows XP disk and it went through and reinstalled Windows. I thought that everything was lost but it looks like everything is okay. He is having trouble now getting the router hooked up so his laptop works.

I have been getting more stitching done though. I knit a scarf for a friend at work. I didn't get a picture of it cause I finished it up at work and gave it to her. It was just a simple garter stitch and was green knitting worsted. She selected the yarn herself several months ago and I promised to have it done by cold weather. We had our first cold spell over the weekend so I figured I better get it done.

My partner for The Year Long Prairie Schooler Exchange has received her ornament so I think I still have a picture.

Prairie Schooler Book 20
Saint Nicholas
28 ct Evenweave w/DMC

I had fun stitching the santa, and I think I am getting better at making twisted cord.

Will write more later and let you know what I have been up to. I have a lot om mail to read and a lot of blogs to visit.

Stitchy Progress and Withdrawal Symptoms

2009-12-01T16:47:00.005-05:00

I have really surprised myself with the amount of stitching I have accomplished in one day.

I have completed one exchange and finished it into an ornament and got it in the mail. Just met the deadline (wiping sweat off brow)

I was going to say I would show pictures in a few days when my partner receives it, but we are getting a new internet provider and will probably be off line until Monday the 7th. Don't ask me how I am going to survive but in the end I will be able to surf much faster and at a cheaper rate.

I am absolutely sure that there will be withdrawal symptoms, cranky, irritable, impossible to live with and work with lol. This is the season to be jolly though, I will try to be nice. I will still be able to read my email on my Blackberry and visit blogs.

I have almost completed the alphabet border on Miss Abbey's ornament.I am going to find a good movie to watch and snuggle up with my snuggy. If I get the border finished, the rest should be fast and easy. I am stitching it on 32 ct. which is more of a blue color than the bright green in the model...her tail is gray and one ear is gray, I am thinking of changing the color white. I will see how it looks.

It is only 5:30 and dark outside. I will have to use my magnifier lamp so I can see what I am stitching.

See you on the 7th.

Frosty Fun and Two Free Days

2009-11-30T12:39:00.005-05:00

Oh Happy Day! I have the next two days off and you know what that means. two days of stitching and finishing up a few things. Maybe starting another.

I have several things I really want to have done by Christmas. I have a few Little House designs that I would like to stitch up. They are in previous JCS Ornament issues.

Then there is the ornament with the white cat ( A Cat in Snowman's Clothing by Hillside Samplings) that I want to stitch for Miss Abbey. I went to the LSN to purchase the perfect fabric for it and it is really calling me.

I am finishing my Prairie Schooler Exchange for my partner today and sending it on it's way.

I have received my Year Long Prairie Schooler Exchange from Marie P. She stitched for me the design "Frosty Fun" from the JCS 2009 ornament issue.

She did a beautiful job stitching and finishing it. The back has a pretty green and red holly print that really compliments the colors in the design and the cording is awesome.

I really liked this design when I saw it in the new issue and so now I am the very happy and lucky owner of this beautiful ornament stitched by Marie.

Have a great day everyone!

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T08:46:00.002-05:00

I asked God for strength, that I might achieve;

I was made weak that I might learn humbly to obey.

I asked for help that I might do greater things;
I was given infirmity that I might do better things.

I asked for riches that I might be happy;
I was given poverty that I might be wise.

I asked for power that I might have the praise of men;
I was given weakness that I might feel the need for God.

I asked for all things that I might enjoy life;
I was given life that I might enjoy all things.

I got nothing that I asked for,
but everything I hoped for.

Almost despite myself,
my unspoken prayers were answered;
I among women am most richly blessed.

~ author unknown ~

Wishing everyone a Blessed Thanksgiving.

Carolina Classic and TUSAL

2009-11-22T11:00:00.009-05:00

TUSAL for November

I am finally getting around to posting. There has been quite a bit going on and have been waiting to be able to get some good pics. Every time I have a day off it is cloudy and during the week I just can't get motivated enough to get the camera out. Shame on me.

First Picture is for Yoyo. I am late as usual. The new moon comes way too fast. She was wanting to see a picture of my black cat fish bowl for the TUSAL. Abbey always has to get in the picture cause she thinks she is the number one cat, lol.
(which could be true)

I have been stitching on exchanges and trying to figure out how in the heck I am going to make everything I want to do before Christmas. I keep oohing and awing over all the new designs that I see and I have quite a collection. Most are small simple stitches but still I don't think I will survive. lol. I am already sinking.

I did get to go to the Carolina Classic Craft Show at the fairgrounds yesterday. We spent four hours there. They had 2 buildings and lots of great stuff.

They only had one cross stitch booth but a lot of other crafts etc. I bought some magnets and a treat bowl for Abbey. Also a cupcake soap.

Trying to get a picture and caught two nosy babies. I don't know what they are looking for. Nothing to eat there. lol

Without the nosy spectators.

I just love this one. Got it for Buffy, when she wants a treat she keeps getting louder and louder if I ignore her. Which I most always do because she hasn't eaten her food first.

Abbey with Buffy's sweater on.
She says please overlook the fat belly.

Don't I look so sweet in pink?

Have a great day!

A Needle Book & More Rain

2009-11-11T11:26:00.003-05:00

I have received a beautiful Needle Book from Fiona. I was her partner for Tiny Treasures Too Needle Book Exchange.

For some reason, I don't know why, I just had the feeling that I was her partner. She posted a picture on her blog when she sent it and when I saw it, I somehow knew that it was going to be mine.

So I patiently waited for it to arrive all the way from Australia. The mail lady hadn't come yet on Monday when I left for work but right after my DS sent me a text and told me I had a package. I asked him who it was from and he told me FIONA! As if I didn't know lol. Then I had to wait 8 more hours before I could get my hands on it.

Fiona stitched a Victoria Sampler design and finished it using a pretty pink paisley print. Oh, it is my first Victoria Sampler and I love it. She also sent me a special gift ornament that she made, a book mark with a picture of the beach where she lives, some pastel buttons (which I am happy to add to my stash) and a note from her in a pretty envelope that she made from a calender picture.

This truly made the sunshine for me on a rainy day here in South Carolina.

Thank you Fiona

Needlebook Exchange & A new Coat

2009-11-07T14:32:00.008-05:00

Audrone has received the Tiny Treasures Too Needlebook that I stitched for her. She lives in Lithuania and I was worried that it might not arrive safely.

This is the first needle book that I stitched and finished. I t was a lot of fun and was an easy design to stitch. I found the pattern at Xstitch Happy.

I was so lucky to find the sunflower button. It was in my stash. I participated in a sunflower exchange several years ago and it was in a ziploc bag with some floss.I think the little bees are so cute.

Buffy got a Snuggy. We couldn't find a pink one, cause she is a little girl, but I think she looks good in blue. Look at that smile.

She is addicted to those Yam Goodies that you get at Walmart. I don't know why they are so good, but she thinks they are the Bomb. lol.

I found a new Fabric shop today It is Lydia's and is located in a little strip mall that is on my way to work. I just happened to see it when I stopped at the teller. Today was the first chance I had to check it out.

It is a small place but she has a lot of goodies. I found a coat pattern for Buffy and some Christmas prints. I have been wanting some of the large Ric Rac that I saw being used in finishing ornaments etc. She has all colors but I didn't get any today because I wasn't sure what colors I might be able to use.

We are going to make the bottom coat. Lydia has the pink animal skin fleece that is used for the collar. I am not sure what kind of fabric we will pick out but we are studying the pattern and will go and purchase what we need the first of the week.

The fabric in the background I am going to use for a Prairie Schooler Exchange that I am stitching on now. I think it will match perfectly and I can't wait to finish it and see the results.

I purchased these three fabrics. They have a lot of red and green , I hope I can match them up with something.

I am on my way to stitch on my Prairie Schooler, it is larger than I thought but, would like to finish it up tonight (the stitching Part). I want to start on my Hootsie Humbug. And still need to Finish Pumpkins 4 Sale by Thanksgiving.

Harvest Exchange

2009-11-03T19:00:00.006-05:00

Today was a better day than the previous 14.
I am not going to elaborate too much, but my voice is back again (for the third or fourth time). It has happened before and than disappeared again. So I am not getting too overly excited about it.

Throat is still a little sore and I have half of my meds to take yet. Wish I was finished with them, they are like horse pills and I have a hard time swallowing them.

I had to go open up the shops this morning at 4:30 AM. Oh my goodness, I haven't done that in a while.

My manager has been working overnight. We are remodeling one of the shops, Rhonda is on vacation and Laurie has been working overnight also, so I was the only Team Leader there. until 11:00. Have you ever tried to be umpteen places at one time? lol

Kate has received the Harvest Exchange I stitched for her and so I can post some pics. I really enjoyed stitching the design. It is a freebie from Plum Pudding.

It actually turned out larger than I thought it would, so I finished it into a small pillow. I used some of the sparkly fabric that I used for my JBW Pumpkin.
I also sent her some cute Fal Buttons and a couple skeins of Dmc Floss Variations.

I am being called to dinner, pork chops, Yummy. So I am out of here.

Blogtoberfest Day 31

2009-10-31T07:48:00.004-04:00

I am still hanging in there. Finally completely lost my voice and broke down and went to urgent care. I have Acute Bronchitis. There were so many sick people there, I had to wait three hours and by then I was afraid pharmacy was going to close before I got my meds. I can whisper this morning and that is as good as it gets.

A lady came in and she was burned by a pot of boiling water. Her left arm and both feet up to the ankles were burned. I didn't mind waiting for them to take care of her, she was in a lot of pain.

I have updated my blog a little to get ready for Thanksgiving. I still need to find the perfect header.
I finally got two of my exchanges in the mail. One should arrive at it't new home Monday. The other one is overseas and I have my fingers crossed that it arrives safely. lol.

Staying home today and try to recuperate maybe get some stitching done.

Blogtoberfest Day 25

2009-10-25T21:49:00.007-04:00

Just lounged around today and rested up. I go back to the salt mines tomorrow for three days.

I am feeling better. Got my voice back so I can tell my side of the story. lol.

I almost finished stitching the fourth pumpkin on Pumpkin Time. I am having been visited by the frog. It seems like a simple stitch but I keep getting off by one stitch. He is very frustrating and I hope he goes away. At this rate I am not getting too much accomplished.
I found a picture of the Just Nan pinkeep I made for Edit. This is the one that got lost in the mail. I was hoping it would turn up again, but I mailed it in June. So it is not looking like we will ever see it again. It was the first Just Nan that I stitched and was so much fun.

May the stitch be with you,

Blogtoberfest Day 24 and Hootzi Is Here

2009-10-24T15:04:00.008-04:00

Well I have totally missed out on completing Blogtoberfest. Who would have known that I would have all these things raining down on me?

Well I could have had a clue. With all the different types of flu going around I was bound to get my fair share. And considering where I work and meeting people from all over the world, I was sure I was going to catch something.

I started out with a sort of sore throat and sneezing. After a couple days of cold meds I developed laryngitis. I actually worked two days cause I didn't feel too bad. Second day my voice was almost gone and so I called in yesterday and stayed home.

I did get some stitching done on Pumpkin Time. My goal was to stitch one pumpkin a day and have it done in a week. I am about half way there and maybe after I watch a few more movies and stitch, I might make some more progress.

I was wondering where to get a frame for it and Lo and Behold....I found one at Walmart for $3.00. How great is that? It is actually meant to hold two 3 1/2 x 5 photos but without the mat it will work perfectly. They had three different ones and I picked the antique looking one. I am going back and pick up some more cause You can never have enough frames,especially the hard to find sizes.

I got really bold and converted my blog over to a three column. I was afraid I would mess up the html, but I did great. It needs some more work but I will have fun doing it. I like the way it looks and I won't have all that scrolling.

Just Nan
Hootzi Humbug

I got more stash! Yeah! Look what came in the mail yesterday. I think this is so adorable. I ordered extra 28 ct. Golden Sand Linen so I could have something left over for future stitching.
I am not, let me repeat that, I am not under any circumstances going to start on this until I finish Pumpkin Time.

I also received some cute freebies by Usurla Michael. They are so cute, but probably will be an item for next Halloween. They are stitched with Kreinik Glow -In-The-Dark threads. I have some of these somewhere that I purchased years ago when I was in Idaho. I saw them a while back but I don't remember where, I am going to have to do some organizing. I will proboably be surprised what I find.

I am mailing of a couple exchanges and will show pics as soon as they arrive at their new homes.

Maybe I won't be gone so long this time
May the stitch be with you.

Blogtoberfest Day 18 and 2 Before

2009-10-18T21:59:00.006-04:00

Well first off Firefox is screwing around again and won't let me add images.

Now that being said, I am behind two days on Blogtoberfest. I have had life throw me a few curves in the past week and have been so depressed that I didn't even feel like existing let alone blogging.

I have come to the conclusion that what is done is done and there is no use mulling around about it. No matter how much I worry things are not going to change and are in the past. May I learn something from my mistakes and pray that I have learned from them.

I have been working in finishing my Harvest Exchange and plan to get it and the Needle Book for Tiny Treasures Too in the mail tomorrow. I will show pictures as soon as my partners receive them.

I have been stitching a little at home and at work during my lunch break. I took my camera with me tonight and took a picture. I stillhave to frog out the yellow flower.

Maybe tomorrow the sun will shine and life will be a little less gloomy.

Blogtoberfest Day 15 and A Pumpkin Update

2009-10-15T16:32:00.008-04:00

We have another rainy day but I am at home and don't need to venture out. I haven't done too much but sit here reading blogs and watching the birds at the feeder. lol.
Oh and I confess I took a little nap after stitching a little on Pumpkin Time. we spent a little time trying to set up a Google Calender so we will be better organized. It is actually pretty neat but it took a while to get it set up so we could share calenders.

It is hard to believe that Halloween is almost upon us. October is a long month this year so we have three paydays. YAY! I still have a few want to stitch Halloween things. I might have to wait until next year. I want to get Pumpkin Time finished by Thanksgiving and then on to Christmas.

We have discovered the Campbell Soup website and for now have solved the problem of what to have for dinner. They have a recipe of the day. We have tried a few when both of us are home at the same time. (Not too often) We are having pork chops tonight.

Here is promised pic of Pumpkin Time. I was disappointed because I couldn"t get the true colors to show up. The fabric is not white or gray or whatever that ugly color is but ivory and the color of the pumpkins doesn't look right. EDIT: I took another pic but put it under my magnifying lamp. It is a much better pic.

At least you can see I have made a little progress. I filled in the letter P and did some of the checkerboard pattern along the bottom. I noticed that I have the second yellow flower in the wrong place, but no biggy as far as frogging.

Blogtoberfest Day 14 and Hootzi

2009-10-14T22:44:00.004-04:00

It has been another rainy day in Carolina. I got up early and stitched a little on Pumpkin Time before I headed off to work.

I forgot it was meeting day so I was a half hour late. It was a slow day, not too many people flying. It was busy other wise with filling the shops with new merchandise.

I did order The Hootzi Humbug by Just Nan that I am drooling over, They are out of stock (it is a popular pattern). I ordered the Golden Sand Linen that was suggested. I am not sure if I am going to order the stick pin or not. So I will patiently wait and finish up Pumpkin Time. I promise an update pic tomorrow

I didn't get home until 9 o'clock and by the time I got everyone fed and watered for the night it
is late and time to call it a day.

Blogtoberfest Day 13

2009-10-13T22:21:00.006-04:00

Here it is again lol, almost midnight and I am so sleepy.
I do not have too much to share as far as pics.

I stitched on Pumpkin time for an hour and a half this morning before going to work. I didn't even to do any thing at work as I didn't get much of a break. I have 3 associates in three shops that I relieve for breaks. I got a late start on relieving them so by the time they all had their breaks it was time to close the shops and go home.

Maybe I can get an update pic in the morning. They are calling for more rain so I can't promise anything.

I hate to leave you hanging out on a branch but I promise tomorrow will be better.

Blogtoberfest Day 12

2009-10-12T22:38:00.005-04:00

Today is the 12th day of Blogtoberfest and it certainly was a rainy one.
It was my first day back at work after 8 days of truly enjoying myself at home, stitching, reading and being just plain lazy.

I planned on going to get the Crescent Color Tomatilla that I needed for Pumpkin Time. I had second thoughts about going in the rain, but I left for work early and stopped by to get it. I can't wait til tomorrow so I can stitch on the pumpkin.

I carried the Needle Book with me and finished it on my lunch break. Now all I need to do is get the sewing machine out and put it together. There will be no more stitching tonight, I am nodding off as I sit here.

When I visited Gaynor's Blog this morning, I saw this and fell totally in love. (sigh)

Just Nan Hootzi Humbug

Tomorrow I should have an update on Pumpkin Time. I am of to visit the Sandman.

Blogtoberfest Day 11

2009-10-11T19:10:00.005-04:00

Are you getting a little tired of pumpkin pictures?
I am lol.
I want to say a big thank you to y'all who have visited my blog and left comments. I really love to hear from you. I try to visit your blogs every day and try not to miss anyone.

I was just over visiting Stitching and Exchanging and saw that Wendy Jo
stitched the same LHN Pumpkins for Gillie that she stitched for me.
She finished it into a pinkeep which is also very lovely.

Wasn't too much happening today. Just spent some quality stitching time.
I started stitching Pumpkin Time last night. I am doing it on 32 ct. Belfast Linen.
I was having so much fun, I stayed up til 1 o'clock. I started nodding off and Buffy and Abbey were really wanting to call it a night. Silly nuts won't go to bed until I do but they curl up on the sofa with me while I stitch and watch TV.

I finished the first pumpkin and did some of the border. I can't stitch the letter P until I find some Crescent Colors Tomatilla. They were out of it when I purchased the pattern and other floss. That was back in August so hopefully they will have some tomorrow.

I stitched a little on my Needle Book exchange while I was watching some of the old ALF shows. He is a hoot. Hadn't seen him in a while. It is about ready to finish and get in the mail.

Guess I will call it a night--take care my friends