The Busy Stitcher

Falling Back...Literally!

2012-01-22T19:00:00.006-05:00

Hello fellow stitchers! Since momma is behind with her sharing, now is a perfect time to share my Fall finishes.

Primitive Betty Freebie

Overdyed Floss by Jackie (Scattered Threads)

Autumn Has Come

Helga Mandl TGOS Magazine

Overdyed Floss by Jackie (Scattered Threads), DMC, & Carrie's Silks

Autumn ~ Stitcherhood Freebie

Overdyed Floss by Jackie (Scattered Threads) and DMC

Fall ~ Freebie

DMC Threads

This darling is the fabulous exchange I received from Jackie (Scattered Threads) for our Fall exchange. Isn't it just too adorable!! She also gifted me some of HER overdyed floss, which I used in my Fall stitching pieces I have shared with you. She is one talented lady!

Pumpkins

Little House Needlworks

Overdyed Floss by Jackie (Scattered Threads) and WDW

Pumpkin Cottage

Cottage Country Needleworks

Overdyed Floss by Jackie (Scattered Threads), DMC, and WDW

This is it! I have more to share and hope to do so by the end of the week. They are Winter and 2012 Finishes!! Yes, momma is trying to stay busy. Thank you soo much for stopping by and visiting...you know I appreciate y'all!

Hugs & Stitches!!

Beckysc BAPS 2012 Challenge

2012-01-17T20:51:00.003-05:00

Hello!

I hope everyone had an enjoyable Dr. Martin Luther King Day. With the challenges our country is facing, it would be nice if we could all remember to treat our fellow man with kindness and charity as he preached many years ago. Tomorrow is not promised to any of us nor is our status.

I decided to join Beckysc's challenge this year...what am I thinking??!! LOL I chose Rose Quaker by Stickideen von der Wiehenburg. I am stitching on 40ct white linen with the required DMC threads. I feel in love with this design a couple of years ago and just kept looking at it in admiration. So, perfect timing Becky! This is my start for now & we shall see where I am at the end of January. If y'all see me slacking, holler for an update!

Always & Forever UFO

2012-01-11T10:37:00.001-05:00

Morning Stitchers!

I hope this post turns out OK as I am trying this out via my phone! I am sitting here in the car stitching as my oldest DD is in her Anatomy & Physiology class...keep your needles crossed for her! LOL I decided to pull this darling out and work on her. This is her before picture & I hope to show you a finished picture in a couple of days!

Hugs & Stitches!!

Pumpkin Hill Fall SAL

2011-10-30T17:02:00.000-04:00

Getting back into the swing of stitching and feeling the holidays as they are around the corner. This piece is CCN’s Pumpkin Hill. I am working this as my Fall SAL with my Yahoo group. Great to be back!!

The Busy Stitcher

Today is THE Day!!

2011-05-26T10:05:00.005-04:00

Thank you for the wonderful compliments on my daughters and Eva's Pincushion. Y'all just warm heart. Blessings and prayers to all of my fellow stitchers who may have endured the tragedy of the recent tornados. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.

I don't know what to say! I am excited and I am sad. Time for her to grow and spread her wings...just a bit! LOL Thanks for sharing in my celebration!

Hug & Stitches!!

Eva's Pincushion ++

2011-05-21T08:04:00.003-04:00

Wow...Thank you sooo much for the lovely comments!! I just love y'all!! This is a whirlwind of a month, but all good!! Graduation is Thursday and I "think" I am ready. DS passed his graduation tests with flying colors, so he is officially a Senior!! My youngest DD passed her tests with flying colors also and is now in the 9th grade. Sigh...

Allow me to inroduce you to "Eva's Pincushion." I designed and stitched this little darling in honor of my mom's mother. The colors are soo typical of her. She always had a garden of bright flowers and most of her dresses were florals. I picked pinks and purples because she always wore one or the other if not both. She passed away due to cancer when I was 10 and I miss her dearly. I can still smell her cooking and remember helping her wash dishes. I especially liked the "special" drawer! Within that drawer was a Ball jar with change that she would give us to go down the street to Hook's Dairy Queen. Mr. Hook had a yummy vanilla ice cream shaped duck dipped into either butterscotch or chocolate...mmmmmmmmmmm!! We loved those! I love and miss her dearly.

Eva's Pincushion

The Busy Stitcher

32ct Coffee Dyed & Baked Linen

CC, DMC, & GA Threads

Well, here is my soon to be high schooler. She went to her 8th Grade Formal last night and had a ball. This is my baby y'all!! She turned 14 in January...where does the time go??? My future vet who is ready to look at colleges this summer. Don't rush mommy...we have some time!

Here is my oldest! She graduates on Thursday. This is a snippet of her and her prom date. She also had a grand time and is sad...mostly because real life is fastly approaching. She is going to finish cosmetology school, which she is doing very well and loves coloring. I can hear her now talking about wanting to be a "hair lady" in the third grade. We have gone through Barbie heads, Bratz heads, cosmo heads, and now real heads. She is going to do well! Her boyfriend is heading off to be a pharmacist...we just adore him.

Sniff...sniff...sniff Well, I am off to start my day and finish up some stitching and do a finish. I am meeting with my coupon teacher...yes, I have gotten into the coupon game and I tell ya...it works!! I am not crazy...that money can go toward stash!! ROFL

Hugs & Stitches until next time!!

FaithHopeLove

2011-05-03T09:51:00.007-04:00

Ohhh, how I appreciate your wonderful comments! THANK YOU Maggee for letting me borrow "With Needle & Thread!!" Nothing like stitching folks!

This was such a fun and pretty piece to stitch!! I am not sure how I will finish it off...flatfold, box, wallhanger...just not sure! Stay tuned to see! LOL

Faith*Hope*Love

Lizzie Kate

32ct R&R Creme Brulee Linen

WDW, GA, & DMC Threads

If you are interested in this chart, I am selling it for $5 PPD. Thank you again for taking the time to stop by and see what I am up to!!

Hugs & Stitches!!

2011-04-27T09:17:00.001-04:00

First and foremost, Thank You for ALL of your supportive comments and personal notes for my family and dear friend. I can only imagine the grief she is going through, but she is very strong in her faith and is doing well. She appreciate all of your thoughts and prayers and thanks you from the bottom of her heart.

I know it has been forever and day since my last post, but life has stepped in the way. Spring football has started, 2 kids going to prom in 2 weeks, oldest DD is graduating from high school, youngest DD is graduating from middle school, youngest DD's Spring formal, and family coming to celebrate both. WHEW!! Can you see the sweat beads on my forehead!! I am taking donations for wine and bubble bath! LOL

ALERT If anyone has With Needle and Thread book by Blackbird Designs, I would LOVE to borrow it.

Time to share!! First up is a Crazy Challenge finish!! WooHoo!! The background fabby is the backing fabby. She is stuffed with crushed walnut shells and polyfil. She is sitting in a basket with friends in my foyer table. I wouldn't dare stick a needle in her...she is too cute!

Best Dirt

Cross Country Stitching Magazine

32ct R&R Linen

Required DMC Threads

The next stop is my BBD Yahoogroup Winter SAL piece. She has been finished for about a month...I know...shame on me!! I am giving this to my DH since he thinks he is a hunter. LOL He belongs to a hunt club, but all they do is shoot skeets and go out to eat to get away from the wives!! I don't mind...time for me and my needle!! LOL

Winter Wonderland

Blackbird Designs

Required 30ct Linen
Required Overdyed Threads

Well, since I finished the sampler....why not the pincushion too!! As you can see, I changed the color of the birds...just too much red for me. The background fabby is the backing fabby and I adorned the corners with tassels. She is filled with crushed walnut shells and is sitting in my antique china cabinet, which belonged to DH's grandmother.

Winter Wonderland Pincushion
Blackbird Designs
30ct Required Linen
Required Overdyed Thread

This is also a Crazy Challenge finish!! I made a few changes in the border design and left off the buttons around the swirl...didn't like them. I added a smyrna stitch in red around the border and left out the green...looked more like Christmas and I didn't like that either.

Fear Not Tomorrow

4 My Boys

28ct Mystery Linen One Over One

Required Overdyed & DMC Threads

My BBD YahooGroup is having a Motley SAL this month. I am suppose to be working a BBD that has become a UFO, but I was gifted this chart by a fellow member and chose to do it. Don't you just LOVE stitchers! So, I am working on this so I can pass it on to another stitcher in the group. This is a lovely pattern!

Garden of Life

Blackbird Designs

40ct Tea Dyed Newcastle

Required WDW & GA Threads

This is the first bonus in the AOTH (Anniversary of The Heart) series by Blackbird Designs. I think it is soo pretty and will probably dedicate it to one of my grandmothers. It is definitely a pretty easy and quick stitch. I just adore the colors...soo soft and pretty...perfect for a grandmother!

AOTH Bonus Block

Blackbird Designs

36ct Sand Edinburgh Linen

Required Overdyed & DMC Thread

Finally, another Crazy Challenge piece. I am just in the mood for Spring colors, but not the storms that torture us on a weekly basis. This is my current car riders piece. What is car riders? I am one of those parents who has to transport their child to and from school every single day. My youngest DD goes to a school out of our district and the bus service was cancelled due to budget cuts. Makes me sick every time education goes on the chopping block, but I won't get on my soap box today. Anyhoo, I arrive early to get a good spot to get out immediately and I stitch while I wait! It is definitely a killer due to the gas prices, but totally worth it.

Faith*Hope*Love

Lizzie Kate

32ct R&R Creme Brulee Linen

Required Overdyed & DMC Threads

This is it for now! I promise I will get better with my posting. Just bear with me throughout the month of May. Plus I have a couple of LoveQuilts projects to complete and send. I am also working on a project, which I hope to share with you very soon.

Thank you for your love and comments. They mean sooo much to me to read your comments...y'all truly inspire me!!

Hugs & Stitches!!

P.S. If anyone can tell me how to fix the spacing in my posts, please email me. Thanks!!

The Past Few Weeks...

2011-03-23T10:05:00.002-04:00

Have been a trying time. My good friend, who also assists my mother with my dad, lost her son tragically a couple of weeks ago. Such a strange feeling. Although she knows my heart, I was just at a lost for words. Prior to that, I lost a friend from church and college. We had just been chatting on Facebook a few days prior! That news put me in shock and a reality check...tomorrow is never promised. A week ago, I lost my aunt. Not to mention the continued sadness in Japan. Sigh...

So, my first picture is just fitting for the personal and world turmoil...PRAY. This sitter is paired with my finish of the Gospel Singer by Southern Roots. This piece is on my "Up For The Challenge" list, and I am pleased to have finished her. She was originally started on 14ct oatmeal aida a couple of years ago, but I decided to start her all over on 32ct linen...glad I did!! I just LOVE how she turned out! I will be looking for a frame to hang her in our family room.

The next goody is Snow Garden. This block is dedicated to my baby and DD, whose birthday is in January. Her favorite color is pink, so I used a soft DMC pink for her initials, birth year, peacock tail, and flowers. I let her make the color placement decision and we both decided on the soft pink to keep within the pattern idea of pale colors. You can see a sneak of Valentine Rose and she is coming along perfectly.

This darling is a freebie that was in my stash. I got it from one of the online shows a couple of years ago. Just a quick, cheerful, and fun stitch!! Oh, this from my Crazy Challenge list too!

Well, I decided to play a bit with some frames. The one on the left is by Ewe & Eye & Friends. I started and finished this while I was down and out with a broken ankle last summer. The one on the right is a BBD Loose Feather...both were hanging around in the finished pile waiting to be displayed. I enjoy walking past these everyday and they do need company! LOL

While looking for a picture, I came across this on my memory card. I am not sure if I shared the finish of BBD's Autumn Bouquet with you. Here she sits amongst her pillow friends on our bed. The colors are sooo perfect for our bedroom! There are also 2 teddy bears that are friends with the bed decor, but my oldest DD told me not put them in the picture..."lame" as I was told. LOL The bears are from my dating days with DH. I love bears and collect Boyds Bears, which are on display with the seasons around my house.

Here is my finish for my first Love Quilts block. It was sent off weeks ago and I am signed up for 2 more!! I really enjoyed stitching this for Peyton. I truly hope her quilt helps to comfort her. If you are interested in stitching for these children, please go here for more information and to share your stitching heart.

Here is my Bent Creek piece in a nice complimentary frame. I really enjoyed stitching this! Such a fun and quick stitch.

This is it for now!! I hope you enjoy my lil bit of sharing with you. It is sooo nice to see warm and motivating comments. I am visiting with my parents and will be back home this weekend. Look for some lovely things! Please come back again soon!!

Hugs & Stitches!!

Just A Little Love!

2011-02-09T10:57:00.011-05:00

Here's to a love filled Valentine's Day to you all!! Don't you just love how we can celebrate with chocolate!! Mmmmmm I know most of us are chocoholics just as much as we are stitchaholics...first step admittance! LOL

Below is a sampler entitled Love from Bent Creek. I left out the x's within the hearts and the running stitch line around the piece...tried it and didn't like it. I think this will be framed and go into our bedroom. Sure the red doesn't exactly match, but who cares?!

Love

Bent Creek

30ct Linen

DMC, GA, & WDW

Next is for my 2011 tree. I also joined in an ornie challenge where we are to complete an ornie every month. This is my January piece! Don't you just love the sparkles...they will be dancing on the tree with the white lights...soo pretty! This is a freebie from Threadwork Primitives.

Threadwork Primitives

28ct White Quaker Linen White w/Silver

DMC Varigated & CC

That's it for today! I do have some other finishes and updates to share, so I will be back soon! In the meantime, keep stitching!

Hugs & Stitches!!

Uhhh...it's about time Joy!!

2011-01-27T12:32:00.010-05:00

I know y'all are thinking that! LOL This month has not gone as planned, but I am pushing forward. Started out great with my challenges and my goals all set. The first week went great, then the ice and snow set in and the kids were home for an entire week...yikes!!! I prepared well with food, firewood, and movies...plus I figured we would only be stuck until Tuesday...wrong! The ice was about 3 inches thick and with well below freezing temperatures, it was a mess.

The kids went back to school and homework is on overload and my youngest DD has a project that I have been helping her with and hope to finish this weekend. Did I mention she had a birthday??!! My baby is 14 as of the 17th...where does the time go???? DH came home for the weekend and we had a nice family dinner and birthday cake for her...pink of course!! I will share with you what I made for her in my next post...stay tuned! DS had his football banquet Monday night and he got his letter and badges for their playoff games, so he is tickled and eager for next year to earn his jacket...Lord help me! LOL

I managed to finish my first piece for 2011, which is a small piece from my Up For A Challenge list! I started it last year and decided I didn't like it because it looked too manly. So, I finished it without a couple of things to keep it in that theme and will be giving it to DH for Valentines Day. I even had some heart fabby in the stash with blue hearts...perfect!! I thought a bow on the cube would be too girly for him, so I took it off and the kids agreed...I even suggested a blue to match and I got the "lame" look.

Bent Creek Snapper

Happy Valentine

28ct Cream Linen

WDW, GA, & DMC

Now, to share my long overdue postings of my final five Crazy Challenge pieces. I apologize for not posting these...I honestly forgot. I have just been shuffling my stitching around and busy dealing with the kids.

La D Da

Praise God

PTP Heritage 40ct

WDW & DMC Floss

Little House Needleworks

Queen Bee

30ct Tea Dyed Linen

DMC, GA, & CC Floss

Southern Roots

Buffalo Soldier & Fight for Freedom

32ct Linen Lana Silver

DMC Floss

The Needlework Show

Spring Chicken

28ct Ivory

DMC Floss

Lizzie Kate

Faith*Hope*Love

32ct R & R Creme Brulee

WDW & DMC Floss

Cross Country Stitching Magazine

Gardeners Know The Best Dirt

30ct R & R Old Mill Java

DMC Floss

That is all of my challenge pieces!! Woohoo! Now it is time to finish the darlings and move on to the list of items that didn't make the final cut...you have some too!! LOL Blessings to y'all for stopping by and supporting my craziness and your wonderful supportive comments.

Hugs & Stitches!!

Crazy Me Plus Extras!

2011-01-10T15:25:00.009-05:00

Happy New Year and welcome to my first post for 2011!! What a year ahead of us!! I am excited about my stitching goals and I hope you are excited about yours. New year...new positive attitude about all aspects of life.

I want to share with you a couple of trinkets I received from my stitching friends Jackie and Tricia. Both of these ladies are just heavenly and I appreciate having them both as friends. If you know me, you know I LOVE snowmen! Not snow but snowmen! LOL So, Jackie sent me Lizzie Kate's 2010 Snowman for my birthday and I just love him! He is on the stitching list for 2011...only to show off during the holidays. Teehee

This darling, LHN's Patience is from Tricia. I came across Tricia a few months ago via a Yahoogroup. She mentioned having linen allergies and I RAKd her a bunch of aida I had on hand and no intentions of using since I discovered linen. She was working on this piece at the time and had to stop. So, she has her finish on aida and I am going to finish what she started! She is also a talented stamper...note the adorable card!

On with the show!! Now to catch you up with my Crazy Challenge starts. I figure I will do weekly updates or as I finish a WIP. I don't want to spend a lot of time blogging...mainly because I spend MORE time looking and adding to my wishlist when I should be stitching! Y'all know what I mean...you do it to! LOL So, her goes days 1-9 of the challenge...

Day 9

Cross Country Stitching Magazine 04/2005

Hearts 'n'Stitches

36ct R&R Creme Bruless

GA Floss

Day 8

Alma Lynne Private Collection (SAL with Jackie)

African American Santa
Zweigart 32ct Belfast Raw

Floss DMC

Day 7

4 My boys

Fear Not Tomorrow

28ct Tea Dyed Linen over 1

Floss GA & DMC

Day 6

Waxing Moon

Winter Wishes

28ct Platinum Linen over 1

Floss DMC

Day 5
CCN Sweet Treats (SAL with Jackie)

28ct Antique White Linen

Floss Crescent Colours

Day 4

Just Cross Stitch ~ My Big Toe

Enter His Gates

28ct Jobelan Tea Dyed over 1

Floss DMC

Day 3

CCN My Beloved

32ct Picture This Plus Overdyed

Floss GA, WDW, & CC

Day 2

BBD Anniversaries of the Heart (SAL with Jackie & BBD Yahoogroup)

36ct Tea Dyed Linen

Floss Required & DMC

Day 1
Bent Creek

Love

30ct Beige Linen

Floss GA & WDW

Whew!! See, my needle has been busy! Plus, I have been working on my Love Quilt block for Peyton so I can get that in the mail. I do have a small WIP which only needs a few more stitches to be my first 2011 finish!

As I sign off, I ask that you all pray for the family of Rene la Frog. I met her through the ILCS group a couple of years ago. She was indeed a talented stitcher and proud grandmother. I have never been to Vegas, but I enjoyed seeing it through her eyes via her blog. She had been ill for some time and is now a stitching angel. In addition, please pray for BeckySC's family. They suffered a devasting loss this past week.

Thank you for visiting and leaving your wonderful comments. I appreciate them sooo much!!

Hugs & Stitches!!

Happy New Year!!

2011-01-01T01:42:00.002-05:00

Wishing all of my blogger friends a wonderful and rich new year. When I say rich, I mean rich in love, faith, giving, family, and success in whatever you choose to do. We have a lot to remember and be thankful for as we embark on a new year. Take the time to stop and give thanks every day for what you have and were able to do for someone else.

Blessings & love to you!!

Merry Christmas!!

2010-12-22T17:26:00.012-05:00

The time is here my dear stitchers and it has gone soo quickly. We are all busy doing final preparations with shopping, cleaning, cooking, and baking. As we all know, be mindful of what we are blessed to have and remember those who are struggling.

I have a few things to share with you. Jackie (Scattered Threads) gifted this darling holiday piece to me. I just love it!! The adornments are perfect and will be treasured every holiday season. Thank you sooo much!!

I wanted to do something a little different for my mom this year. She recently redecorated her bedroom and of course used her sorority colors. She loves flowers and I thought this design by Blackbird Designs would be a perfect choice. It is entitled Dear Mother and is in the Peppermint & Holly pattern book.

Dear Mother

Peppermint & Holly Pattern Book

Blackbird Designs

28ct over 2

Floss DMC & GA

The next photo are the ornies I stitched and completed this year. There should have been more, but I am sooo hoping 2011 will be a lot better. I did join the All Year Long Christmas Stitch-A-Long blog for ornies. An encourager to complete at least one ornie a month.

Finally, here is my gift to Jackie. She received in the mail today. I hope she is forgiving as it is my first attempt at a box. I did want the walls to be a tad rippled like pleats and that worked out perfectly. My youngest DD helped me with placement and colors. I am soo hoping to make a stitcher out of her! LOL

Thankful for Ewe

Little House Needleworks Freebie

32ct Linen

FlossCrescent Colours

That's all I have to share with you as far as finishes. I am also taking on the Crazy Stitching Challenge and Up For A Challenge for WIPs. Yes, I am crazy!! LOL As some of you know, the past couple of years have been challenging health wise, my father's illness, and the passing of my FIL. I figure 2011 is my year to blossom! So, I will be listing my challenge projects and hoping for the best. :-)

As always, thank you sooo much for your visits and comments...they mean the world to me. Wishing you all many blessings and a wonderful, safe holiday with your loved ones.

Merry Christmas!!

Happy Thanksgiving & A Finish!!

2010-11-24T19:16:00.006-05:00

I want to take a moment and wish all of my stitching family a wonderful and safe Thanksgiving with your family and friends. As you are preparing your baked goods, side dishes, and turkeys, remember to be thankful for what you and your family have this year. I wish you all many blessings.

On to my finish! I actually finished Autumn Bouquet last week and have been busy with other things. I plan to finish her into a pillow for our bedroom. The colors are soo perfect and I just knew it to be the perfect finish when I saw how the colors just blended. Anyhoo, no color changes, but I changed the design of letters A, E, and F. I also stitched my initials in green instead of cinnamon. I hope you like my coffee dyed and bake fabby...I love the markings!!

Thank you for blessing me with your visit and leaving inspiring comments. I appreciate every single one! I see I have some new followers...Welcome & Thank You for following me!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Another Side of Me!

2010-11-16T18:49:00.004-05:00

Hello Hello!!

I can't believe it was over a month ago, but I shared with you my very first pen and ink piece that I did some years ago. I sooo want to thank you for your wonderful comments. Now, time to share another side of crafty me...quilting! Yes, quilting! The first picture is a piece I started a few years ago. It has been packed away in a tote waiting for me to finish her up. While talking to Jackie (Scattered Threads) about her quilts(she is an amazing stitcher), she motivated me to pull this out and get busy. So, I finally did!! I only have the rows to sew and plan a backing with the leftover fabby. The fabby is Moda by Robyn Pandolph. The pattern is log cabin.

The next quilt is my very first quilt I did after my surgery in 2002. It is also my first little quilt! I fell in love with the idea of little quilts after finishing this one. I even did the quilting myself...glad you can't see the rough areas! LOL Oh, the china cabinet belonged to DH's great-grandmother. His aunt recently gave it to me and I just adore it. I am going to get some Old English to revive it a bit. I am using it for my Boyds Bears and cross stitch goodies from friends and my own creations. The praying angel was a newborn gift for my oldest DD and is just darling.

That's it for today! I just wanted to share with you and am looking forward to sharing more quilts with you in the future.

Hugs & Stitches!!

Finally An Update!!

2010-11-14T23:29:00.013-05:00

The past month has just been busy and an adjustment. DH is now in Louisiana and not liking it one bit. We just have to keep in mind that he was able to keep a job and that is the main focus. We see him twice a month except we plan once a month for the holiday months due to an extended stay those months. Not that running the house is not stressful enough, DS injured 3 tendons in his right knee. He is finished with football for the season and is healing slowly but surely. The doctor is giving him 3 months to completely heal. The torn ligament is definitely taking its time, but surgery is not yet an option...total blessing!

What have I been doing?? Trying to stitch my stress away!!! LOL I did finish CCN's Winter Wonderland. It is such an adorable little piece! I only made a couple of changes. The skintone, hair, the snowman's hat, and his carrot nose. So, I am looking for a frame to fit our decor and the picture. I told the kids the characters represent them...both girls claim to be the one with the snowman!

Country Cottage Needleworks

Winter Wonderland

28ct Lakeside Linen

Required Crescent Colours Belle Soie Silk Floss

Next is BBD's Autumn Bouquet...I LOVE this!! It is turning out better than I imagined. I just love the color choices Barb & Alma chose. I had problems with two of the colors and ran out due to knotting and shredding. Thread Heaven did not help...I guess just a bad set. I ordered the replacements and they arrived Saturday, so I will hopefully finish this week.

Blackbird Designs

Autumn Bouquet

32ct Permin Linen Coffee Dyed & Baked

Required GA Floss

Last but not least is LK's Merry Christmas By The Letter. I really need to finish this baby up soon. She is almost there! I did experiment with some Kreinik silver to give the fill-in letters a little shimmer. I had some help from Jackie (Scattered Threads) to get the metallic to work correctly and her advice worked perfectly!! Thank you Jackie!! I just wanted to perk up the piece just a bit and the metallic did the trick! I am thinking of doing the border the same, but we shall see.

Lizzie Kate

Merry Christmas By The Letter

32ct Permin Linen

Required WDW & GA Floss

That is it for now! Thank you soo much for your comments, well wishes, and notes of support since DH left. I cherish them all!! Until next time...

Hugs & Stitches!!

Here We Go!!

2010-09-30T13:19:00.007-04:00

Howdy Y'all!! As you can see I added a picture to my title. This was my very first pen n' ink picture ever. I used to dabble quite a bit in tole/decorative painting. I had a scroll and band saw cutting out my own pieces and every color of paint Decoart had to offer...kinda like my need for DMC floss and working on GA, CC, and WDW. :-) I finished this back in 2003...I think, but it means soo much to me and hangs somewhere in our home ever Fall. It is a pattern from Maxine Thomas of the Country Primitive book series. I also used to be prim crazy...still am to a point. I thought I would share this bit of the past with you.

As you can see, I completed BC's 123 Blackbird. Such a fun little stitch!! I think I am going to make it into a floss keeper. What do you think?

123 Blackbird

Bent Creek Zipper

30ct 18th Century Rook Linen

DMC Floss

Here is my progress on BBD's Autumn Bouquet. I just started this with a few ladies from the BBD Yahoogroup. This is my "while I wait in car rider's line" project. Of course I can get more done if I am not running my mouth! LOL

Autumn Bouquet

Blackbird Designs

32ct Linen Coffee Dyed & Baked

Required Floss

Moving right along...This is the 3rd pattern from CCN's Winter Wonderland series. I just adore the soft colors of this project. I cannot decide if I am going to frame, make a wall hanging, or a pillow to put on a basket I have on the fireplace. I guess we shall see!!

Winter Wonderland

Country Cottage Needleworks

28ct Lakeside Linens Light Exemplar

Belle Soie Floss

Last, but not least is LHN's The Family Sampler. The LHN/CCN Yahoogroup is doing a 6 month SAL on this baby. I started a few days later as I decided on which colors to switch out. I have changed the colors to make the home look similar to ours. My youngest DD told me the colors are perfect. Yippee!! I am going back and forth on the flower colors. I like the chosen colors, but I am thinking about matching our family room. On the other hand, the youngest DD wants me to match the clothing colors to the individual personalities. I am not sure about that yet.

The Family Sampler

Little House Needleworks

40ct Newcastle Linen

DMC, Crescent Colours, & GA

That's it for now!! Thank you again for your visits, comments, and words of encouragement. Sometimes we just do not realize how a couple of words can make someone's day. Make someone's day in blog land and leave a comment!

Hugs & Stitches!!

2010-09-22T05:21:00.004-04:00

Autumn Sampler

Little House Needleworks

28 ct Ivory Linen

Belle Soie Silk Floss

Here she is! I loved stitching this piece. I think it will be a little wall hanger. I have the perfect fabby in my stash to finish it off. Thanks for following my progress...it motivates me!!

I have to share my other pictures tomorrow. My oldest DD took my camera cable to school, so you have to wait just a little. :-) In the meantime, Anita (Anita's Little Stitches) sent my fabby super fast...mailed Saturday, arrived Monday...from TX!! If you are a scissor addict, check her site out! She also carries other stitchy items at great prices. So, I am going to start The Family Sampler sometime today. Now my WIPs consist of BBD's Autumn Bouquet, LHN's The Family Sampler, CCN's Winter Wonderland, LK's Merry Christmas by The Letter (I need to finish this one!!), and whatever ornie I pick for the weekend. Whew!! Not to mention the new stuff to come! LOL

I am off to get ready for the day. I cannot think of a thing for dinner today. Any ideas for quick tasty meals? Thank you soooo much for visiting with me. I love your comments, they are such a motivator...Thank you!!

Hugs & Stitches!!

Touching Base!

2010-09-17T18:55:00.006-04:00

Well, I just want to share with y'all an update of my Autumn Sampler. See the great pumpkin! LOL This is such a fun and easy stitch.

123 Blackbird

Bent Creek Zippie

30ct 18th Century Rook

DMC Floss

This is my little weekend project...hopefully! It should be an ornie, but I am still in the mood for Fall. I think I am going to pick quick and easy, like ornies, for weekend projects for the next couple of months. I decided to use a different fabby and DMC floss. The kit comes with 18ct linen and pearl cotton, which I did not like. I am thinking a hanger...any suggestions?

The DS is at an away game, so I plan to stitch until midnight...time to pick him up. I know...crazy!! Thanks again for stopping by and visiting.

Hugs & Stitches!!

Autumn Sampler

2010-09-14T22:53:00.004-04:00

Autumn Sampler
Little House Needleworks
28ct Ivory Linen
Belle Soie Silk Floss

This is my first Fall stitchy pick. I thought I would share a peek of my start. I hope to finish it soon. I am thinking either a flatfold or a wall hanger. Perfect for my new seasonal wall!

Thank you for all of your compliments on Quaker Garden. You all keep me inspired and I appreciate you!

Hugs & Stitches!!

Tah-Dah!!!

2010-09-13T10:02:00.004-04:00

Quaker Garden

Blackbird Designs

32ct R&R Garden State Java

Required Floss

Well, she is finished!! I soo enjoyed stitching this beauty! Thank you again Lauralee S. for your kindness in allowing me to borrow the pattern. The only change I made was the fabric count...I could not find it in 30ct.

I am now working on LHN's Autumn Sampler. I have really just started it, so I will show a picture in a day or two. I don't see much excitement in showing an orange line! :-) I am also getting ready to do a Autumn Bouquet SAL with a few ladies from my BBD group in a week. I am contemplating the LHN's Family Sampler SAL. I have everything, but I am not sure I want to stitch it just yet. I have some ornies I still want to complete for this year first. The LHN SAL is going to last for almost a year, so I may go ahead and join. Who knows?!

As always, I just love y'all for stopping by. I enjoy and appreciate your comments, not to mention words of support for the DH's transfer. I must say I was a little tearful with happiness from some of the notes I received. I know it will be a little hard at first, but things will be fine. Especially when football comes to a close! I hope the DS doesn't read that! LOL

Hugs & Stitches!!

Ornies Finished!

2010-08-31T10:21:00.011-04:00

Well the kids are all back into the routine of school. I cannot believe I have a Senior, Junior, and the baby is in 8th grade. Where does the time go?!! We spent the past few days clearing out my FIL's home. Kinda weird and sad to know that he is no longer there. I kept a few things and have added touches of him throughout our home.

Other news, the DH is being transferred to LA. Am I thrilled? Not totally, but he will keep his job. So, we will see him about every other weekend whether he comes here or we go there. Let me know if there is a great LNS in the New Orleans area!! It is going to be weird at first, but I am sure we will adjust. It will be easier with a LNS to drown my sorrows! LOL

On to stitchy things!! I dug this pattern out by Ewe & Eye & Friends called "Feather Tree." It was a quick little stitch. I changed the border color and made Merry in red instead of purple like the border. I also took out the hearts...they just did not seem to go. I stitched it on 36ct Iced Cappuccino over one with one strand of DMC.

Here is my LHN's Snowy Pines! I stitched this on 36ct Iced Cappuccino over one with DMC floss. I am using a Debbie Mumm fabby I have in the stash to finish it off. Isn't it perfect?!

Here is my progress on Quaker Garden. I had to frog a small portion, so that put me behind my deadline for today. So, I am going for Saturday as a finish day. I really do love stitching this pattern.

OK...here is my pick to kick off my Fall stitching. I think it will be a fairly quick and easy stitch. Plus...silk floss!!! I have some fabby in the stash to finish it off perfectly...stayed tuned to see!

Well, that's it for today. I soo appreciate you stopping by for a visit. Come back soon!!

Hugs & Stitches!!

LOTS to Share!!!

2010-08-19T23:23:00.012-04:00

Okay, so it has been forever and a day since my last post...I cannot believe 2 months have flown by!!! Both family reunions were in July, then the preparations for the kids to go back to school. To top things off, the ole camera broke and I just cannot stand posting without pictures. Side note...I hate the new camera, gave it to the oldest DD, and now I am looking for another one. I tell ya!! LOL My ankle is doing pretty good. I still have swelling and tinges of pain, but both are to be expected. Thank you sooo much for your well wishes.

My first pretty is my SAL from the BBD Yahoogroup. This Loose Feather #14 Summer House, and I just adore the pattern!! Stitching the house got a little boring. Once I got past the house, it was pretty much a fast stitch. It is on its way to a fellow stitcher to borrow for a bit.

I just could not let a post go by without sharing a picture of Chloe. She looks sooo angelic, but a little devil. This is her "can I have a bone" look. She is such a mess!!

Now, for the eye candy....look what Jackie (Scattered Threads) sent me!! Did she spoil me or what??!! I sent her some patterns, one of which we hope to be doing a SAL, just as a RAK. When we got back from FL, this package was waiting by the door. She is a super talented stitcher...she does not believe me!! She sent me an adorable pillow, pinkeep, tissue cover, neck warmer, ankle warmer (great for my ankle), hand dyed floss...one is missing from the picture because I used some in an ornie, some fabric for me to use, and a beautiful card. Am I spoiled or what??!! Thank you again Jackie!!!

On to some other finishes. I finished 2 ornies from LHN's monthly collection. I went back and forth about the branches for the pear tree, and I just like the ornie as it is. I even stitched a couple of branches, but I took them out...perfect in my eyes!

I did some changes on this one also. If you look closely, you will see red seed beads within the tree garland. I also made his scarf and mittens red. The just looked better! LOL

This is Lizzie Kate's "Just Text Me." Those of you who have teenagers can relate. I finished this for the oldest DD's 18th birthday. She has to pick out some fabby to finish it as a doorhanger pillow. I really like how this turned out!!

This one is for my DS's 16th birthday. I know he does not care, but I wanted to stitch him something special. Girl things are easy to find in patterns and I stitch them things all of the time. Besides, I started stitching after he was born and he deserves it!! This is also a Lizzie Kate and his fabric choice is on the side.

Now for the WIPs. The first is the next ornie in the LHN monthly series. This one is being stitched on 36ct to fit my tree. Frankly, I am stitching them all on either 32ct or 36ct to be a nice size for the tree. No other changes...yet!

My current progress on LK's "Merry Christmas by The Letter." She is coming along nicely and I hope to be finished by mid September.

Finally, my current progress on BBD's "Quaker Garden." I am enjoying this soooo much!! I hope to finish this in 2 weeks. I think I can do it, especially since I have about 45 minutes to kill in the car rider line everyday.

I am ready for Fall stitchin!! What do you have on deck to stitch for the upcoming season? I was going through the patterns and trying to figure out what I want and can complete by the end of the September. I know...good luck with that!! LOL I have already started to pull out my Fall decor. I am just tired of the heat and humidity. It has just been awful this year.

Well that's it for now!! I appreciate your comments, friendship, and support.

Hugs & Stitches!!

Some Updates & Stuff

2010-06-11T17:24:00.010-04:00

OK...first up is a finish and a WIP. I stitched LHN's first monthly ornie Fa La La over on 36ct Iced Cappucino over 2 using one strand. I definitely like the size a whole lot better for my tree. The only thing I changed is the skin tone and the height of the girl in red to represent my DDs. The second ornie Pear Tree is right above it and I can see the size is going to be just right for my tree also. I plan to finish this up over the weekend and start on the next one.

This is my BBD Summer House (LF #14) SAL with my YahooGroup. I am almost finished with the house...YES!! I just have the side portion and then the roof. I am not counting the windows because they are small. I figure if I can get past the time of stitching in one color, the majority of the pattern is basically done. The grass is also a bit of time in one color, but I will be able to go back and forth with the flowers and letters. I am excited to finish this and may even beat my end of July deadline. Who knows?!!

I have been a bad girl and have not put in much time on my LK project. It is in the plan to have the next leaflet completed by Monday. I do enjoy this, but I neglected her for my BBD SAL...shame on me!!

As far as my ankle, I am in a boot. It took me a couple of days to get used to the weight, which I did not expect. The back bone is filling in, but not at the speed the doctor wants it. So, I go back at the end of the month for another x-ray. I have had more pain coming from the back and had a couple of flighty days from the pain meds. I have always hated taking that stuff because it makes me flighty. Now combine that with the Lyrica...I am knocked out! Then I lose stitchy time or find that I have to frog what I did because I thought I was alert enough! LOL

As always, I thank you sooo very much for visiting me and leaving comments. Your thoughts inspire me and keep going. I appreciate you!!

Hugs & Stitches!!

New Winner for Evergreen

2010-06-11T10:29:00.004-04:00

Welcome back everyone!! Since I have not heard from the original winner, I thought that it would be fair to announce a NEW winner. So, here she is......

Dirty Martini Queen said...
Hi Joy, glad you are starting to feel better and the ankle must be healing ok. Happy you got to see the folks and spend quality time with them even if it was for a not so happy reason. Please include me in your giveaway for Evergreen and I'm keeping everything crossed because I've been looking around to buy it to no avail.Have you got to go to the new LNS yet?

Donna Atlanta

So, my fellow home girl stitcher...CONGRATULATIONS!!! Give me a holler so I can get this out to you.

Thank you soo much for visiting and following my blog. I appreciate you all sooo very much!!!

Hugs & Stitches!!

Exchanges, PIFs, & Stitchy Status

2010-05-26T16:36:00.001-04:00

Hello & Welcome Back!

I sooo appreciate your well wishes and thoughts of support...y'all are such a blessing. A Stitchy Angel offered me Quaker Garden...YES!! Thank you soo much Lauralee!! I do not have what she is looking for, but if someone has The Goode Huswife's Sparrow's Song, please let her know. I was not able to help her, but I was able to PIF Spot of Spring to her and with the promise to PIF to Lenna and BBD's Summer House after I have completed the SAL to Lenna as well.

The doc took off the cast to x-ray, and things are OK for the most part. The back break still has not healed and I go back on the 1st to x-ray it again to see if there is progress. If so, I get a boot for I don't know how long. Otherwise, I guess surgery may be in my future.

Well, before things got extremely hectic, I completed some exchanges. I only took a picture of the finished items, but I also sent some floss, cute frog notecards, and chocolate. The Valentine Pinkeep is actually my first pinkeep and I am soo proud of it. Look REAL close and you will see beads!! I also made a pocket on the back to put scissors, floss, etc. The other is a door hanger for a BBD exchange. I used a Spring inspired overdyed floss and I just love how it turned out. The next picture is what I received from Julianne. Her stitching is just beautiful! I LOVE the pinkeep and I think I will keep scissors in the back. Mostly, it will be on display with other stitchy things so nothing happens to it. I do apologize to her for not posting pictures sooner, but taking care of my dad, when possible, and my FIL just consumed me emotionally and physically. I had no desire to be on the Internet or anything I normally enjoyed doing. I still have my days, but little by little I am working through it all. :-) It took me a minute, but stitching is sooooo good for the soul!!!!!!!

This is my progress on my LK piece. I really do like it and cannot wait to finish it as a banner, or a wall quilt...my new thought for it! LOL Other than stitching, I am going through my stash for eBay, future giveaways, and PIFs.

Holiday Weekend SALES!!!

Wasatch Needlecraft is having a 25% off floss sale going on now until Monday.

JJ's is having 20% off EVERYTHING stitchy related starting Friday & ending Monday.

Hugs & Stitches!!

The Winner is...........

2010-05-23T10:29:00.007-04:00

Lana!! She said..."Congratulations on your finish. Beautiful design. Please add me to the list."

Congratulations Lana!! Please email me with your mailing information so I may get this out to you this week.

Thank you all for participating and stay tuned for another giveaway s@@n!! I soo appreciate your comments and support.

Hugs & Stitches!!

It's A Giveaway!!

2010-05-17T20:29:00.000-04:00

In honor of me FINALLY finishing this piece and in the spirit of passing this along in the manner in which I received it...JOIN THE GIVEAWAY!! Evergreen is such a beautiful design and I know you will enjoy stitching this piece. I am offering the pattern and new floss to the lucky winner. Just leave a comment to THIS post by midnight May 22, 2010 to be considered.

Thank You & Goodluck!!!

JBW Designs Ornies

2010-05-17T20:28:00.002-04:00

I go to the ortho tomorrow for x-rays on my ankle. Hmmm...some of you don't know what happened. Well, I happen to have fallen at the cemetary right before my FIL's burial service. I am still not sure how it happened! All I know is that I turned to talk to a relative, and the next thing I knew I was on my buns sitting Indian style and a LOUD crack as I landed on the DH's grandfather's grave. Can you imagine my embarassment?! As you know, I have drop foot syndrome, and I thought the crack was my brace...still in tact! I have nerve damage, so I did not feel anything. So while the service was going on, I had my foot on my SIL's lap and it began to swell up like a balloon. Needless to say after the services, the limo rushed me home and then off to the ER. So, it is broken in 2 places and I am still crossing my fingers that I don't have to have surgery. As some family members say, "It is the Lord slowing me down so I can heal emotionally and rest." They could be right...who knows?! Anyhoo, keep your needles crossed that I get some good news!!

Well, if nothing else while I am sitting on my buns, I am getting caught up on my stitching. Not a bad trade off! I already have a little pile of finishes, and I guess I can look forward to a couple of days of nothing but finishing. Not to mention I want to accomplish more this year and really reach my goals. Soo much has happened within one year that has left my head spinning. The positive side...I can only come out stronger!! :-)

JBW Designs ~ The Stocking

32ct Antique White Linen Over 2 using DMC Varigated

As you can see, I have two ornies stitched up for my stitchy tree. I do adore stitching JBW designs and you will be seeing some more ornies by her. They are pretty quick stitches! I have things prepared for LK Merry Christmas by The Letter. I just cannot decide as to whether I will stitch over 1 or 2. Either way I am doing the finish as a banner. Any suggestions??

JBW Designs ~ Christmas Tree

32ct Antique White Linen Over 2 using WDW

Aaahh...one more week and the BBD SAL begins!! I cannot wait to dive into that piece. (Selection within previous a post.) I know I said it before, but I LOVE the colors!! I am still on the hunt for BBD's Quaker Garden. I am willing to trade, borrow (I will take excellent care of the pattern), or buy at a reasonable price. PLEASE let me know if you are willing to part with it!!!

Thank you for visiting with me. I soo appreciate your comments...they keep me motivated! I am off to get my needle flying! Don't forget to enter the Giveaway!

Hugs & Stitches,

LOTS to Share!

2010-05-14T13:05:00.004-04:00

Well, slowly but surely I am getting back into the swing of things. My DH's great-uncle passed away, so we went to OH a couple of weekends ago. No, I did not go to the funeral...no jokes! I spent the time with my parents. My dad perked up when he saw my DS...as usual I must be chopped liver! LOL As long as he recognized someone, I am happy. He looked pretty good and mom is feeling better. Of course she nagged me to no end about my ankle no matter how many times I told her I had permission from the doctor to travel...hum drum!!

I have some finishes to share with you!! I finished Curly Q Ewe, but as you can see, I changed most of the colors. I wanted a Spring look to the piece, so I went for yellow to brighten it up and added a few more. I think I am going to finish her on a box.

Spot of Spring was a little something I did to get rid of the winter blues. I just love it and I plan to finish it as a little pillow.

Think Spring definitely put me in the Spring mood. I just adore LK's designs. I can just about count on a smile as I stitch something from that line. I do believe this did the trick! This little darling will probably be a flatfold.

Don't ask me why, but I am now in the mood for bees. The weird part, I am allergic to the little buzzers, but I am now pulling out bee patterns and looking for more. This one caught me by surprise and stitched up very quickly. I have the birdhouse companion piece around here somewhere and will get it stitched up before the summer ends. I think they both will be cute as wall hangers or a block.

My next ventures?? Well, I am doing a SAL with my Yahoo BBD group. I have chosen Summer House...LOVE the vintage look of this pattern. This starts on Memorial Day, and I have everything ready to go. Don't you just LOVE the colors??!!!

I have to wait a little while to do finishing, I am going to FINALLY get caught up with some stitched ornies. I did the first LHN series ornie, but I did not like the size for my tree. So, I am going to stitch them on a larger count so they are more of an ornie size. I think I my also start the LK Merry Christmas by the letter series. What the heck...I have about 5 more weeks in this cast!!

Thank you all soooo much for your love and support. I appreciate you soo much. Please come back and visit soon!!

Hugs & Stitches!

Joy

Just Some News

2010-04-12T08:17:00.002-04:00

Hello Stitching Friends!

I did not realize how long it has been since I posted. You can thank my DD for keeping up with the background changes...she did a great job!!

My FIL lost his battle with cancer Sunday morning. He fought a good fight and I Auntie Pearl were with him fighting every single day. I cannot begin to express how I feel. Although I am sad and tearful, I am soo grateful for having the opportunity to have had the chance to know him better. Some days were not easy and the hospital visits were stressful. I have never experienced being with someone as they slip into the hands of the Lord...I am soo honored.

I did get some stitching done and I have pictures to share with you. I have a lot on my plate today as we make preparations, but I will share them soon. Please bare with me as I get my life back on schedule. The kids were great and not a bit selfish of the time they lost with me, but mom has to make that up...just a bit! :-) Please continue to keep the family in prayer.

Thank you for your support & love!

Meet Chloe!!

2010-01-05T10:38:00.009-05:00

Isn't she a cutie!! This is my new baby Santa gave me and she is FULL of energy!! She also likes to steal socks including right off of your foot!! LOL She just finished having play time and burned herself out. Don't you just love that face!! She has finally figured out barking and has gotten over her fear of jumping off the couches and the beds.

She is a YorkiePoo and definitely has the personality of a Yorkie. She is barely 4 lbs and not expected to get much bigger. She just loves to be cuddled and carried hanging over your shoulder just like an infant. She is cutting teeth and loves chewing her bone...thank goodness it is her bone! LOL I just love her!! Thank you Santa (DH)!!

Catching Up...at least a little!!

2010-01-05T10:16:00.010-05:00

First and foremost...Happy New Year!! I am sooo hoping that this year will be better than last year. For those of you who don't know, my FIL was diagnosed with cancer and he is basically in the final stages. Surgery was never an option and now chemo has been discontinued because it does not seem to be working. I have been with him every day for 8+ hours looking after him. The DH's aunt and uncle have been a tremendous help when possible. He was put on Hospice last Monday and he goes up and down like a rollercoaster. PLEASE keep us in prayer!! Thank you Jackie (Scattered Threads) for asking your readers to keep us in prayer. You are a gem!!

I do have a couple of things to share with you. Becky (BeckyBees Stitching Hive) had a giveaway on her blog for a darling stitched piece. To enter you just had to leave a comment as to how the piece should be finished. I suggested a flatfold and I WON!!!! She did a beautiful finish and I am soo honored to have won a piece from her. She always has beautiful stitched pieces on her blog. However, she is having some health problems and will not be stitching for a while so please keep her prayer...she is a treasure to the stitching world!!

I also received this adorable ornie from a LHN/CCN blog ornie exchange. Kim R. did a beautiful job and the lights twinkle perfectly around it!! She also sent me some terrific needles and GA floss. I have never used Bohn needles, and I do like how they glide through stitching fabby. Speaking of fabby, I LOVE the print and colors of the fabby...perfect prim style!! Kim, thank you soo much!!

I am working on my stitching goals for 2010, and I am hoping to get quite a bit finished in the new year. I am also adding to my resolutions to not buy ANY stash other than floss and fabby as needed until I complete at least 10 midsize patterns. The only must haves are LHN's ornie of the month and monthly series and BBD's Loose Feathers. Do you think I can control myself?? In my mind, I have a reason to replace what is completed!! LOL

Blessings to you all!!

COOOOOOL Giveaway!!

2009-11-20T17:36:00.002-05:00

Erynne of Be-Stitched is having an exciting blogoversary giveaway!! Are you ready....$75 in stash!!! You read correctly!! Click on the birdie and wish her a Happy Blogoversary and enter for a chance to win. Goodluck!!

Soooo Much & A Finish!!

2009-11-19T13:35:00.007-05:00

Hello Friends!! This has been one trying year! One thing after the next. Two weeks ago my FIL was rushed to the hospital with what we thought was a heart attack. Wrong...cancer. It is in his stomach, has spread to his liver, and is not operable. He has started chemo and so far is doing well, but I know this is just the beginning. My home has been full with company, including my BIL and SIL. Plus, I have been at the hospital every possible moment and his home, which is just down the road. Just to give you all a heads up...if you eat smoked meats...STOP!! The type of cancer he has is associated with consumptions of smoked meats and is usually found in China/Japan. Weird...I know. Please keep him and my father in your prayers.

In the midst of the above, I had lost my LHN's "Prairie Sampler!" I had searched the house ALL over...not a clue. My youngest DD searched the Tarazza and the Armada...nope! I last remembered having it at the hospital all kitted and waiting to be started, but I called there...nope! I was ready to just cry!! Well, the other day I picked up a library bag off the planning desk...guess what?!! Yepper!! It was in the bag the entire time!! Ask me if I feel like the little person sitting in the corner with the pointy hat! I am soo glad to have found it and now I can get caught up...Whew!! :-)

Little House Needleworks
"Pumpkins 4 Sale"

28ct Lambswool Cashel

Crescent Colours & DMC Floss

Well, I did manage to get complete LHN's "Pumpkins 4 Sale!" Yippee!! I am soo proud of it! I just am having a hard time deciding on the finish, which HAS to be this weekend so I can have it on display next as company flows through for the holiday. I cannot decided between a flatfold, cube, or a new idea I have. As you can see, the fabby decision has already been made! Hmmm...what to do? Stay tuned!!

I am off to do all things stitchy!! Enjoy your day!!

Neat Idea for A Giveaway!!

2009-11-03T10:53:00.002-05:00

Kim (Northwoods Discoveries) is having this totally neat giveaway!! It is a pin holder and ort catcher that fits over a chair/sofa arm. Love it!! Can you believe she has reached post number 1000!! Is that not awesome!! Click on the picture or her blog title and visit her blog. She has some really neat stitching and quilting.

Congratulations Kim!!

Just Stuff!! OK...lots!!

2009-11-03T07:02:00.011-05:00

Although most of my stitching does not reflect it, I have been busy as a beaver! My youngest DD had a kinda neat project she had been working on for her lit class. She had to make a scrapbook reflecting what she had done every day for a month...kinda like a journal with graphics. It was a pain, but it also helped her to realize how much time she spent texting, listening to music, homework, etc. She always complains about how much little time she has...now she sees how much time she wastes. I also get to throw it back at her when she tells me she did not have to do her chores!! Can you see the devil horns growing out of my head?!! LOL

The older DD has been driving me nuts with chemistry...I don't remember that crap!! The teacher apparantly does more whining about whatever, although he is nice, but teach and grab your pacifier when you get home. The library stinks with its selection of self-help books in the subject, so we spent an evening in Barnes n Nobles and FINALLY found a book to help her. Whew...I thought I was really going to earn about 30 gray hairs!! She is now on the right path and appears to be more confident.

Daddy is home, but not much has changed. He is cracking a few smiles here and there. I only wish I could know what he is thinking or wants to say. It all seems sooo weird...you know? I appreciate your continued prayers...y'all are sooo good!!

Stitching Stuff....

I did not do very much stitching this past week. I sometimes get migraines and this week was the worst in quite a while. I had it for 4 days and it was not a picnic. I went to the doctor and she wanted to give me a shot...NO WAY!! I had to tell her the only needles I like are the ones I stitch with!! LOL So, I had to combine some meds and sleep as much as possible...no problem with the meds!

So what had I been doing? Working on exchanges, which I cannot share with you as you know. I also have been working on a Bday drawing I had. The health hassles from earlier in the year put me behind in my goals this year, but they are not going to keep me down. I did get my first model stitching assignment, which I cannot share with you...sorry...soon enough. Not large, but it is a start! So, on to what I can share with you! :-)

Little House Needleworks

Curly Q Ewe

18ct Aida

Floss ~ GAST, WDW, & DMC ~ My choices!!

Well, she should have been done, but once I thought I had decided on colors, I changed them. She is actually further along than pictured, but I have run out of battery juice. You will see an update in a couple of days. I did have a hard time getting into stitching this one. Why? I don't have a clue! Sometimes we just see a pattern we adore, but have a hard diving in...like a book I guess.

Little House Needleworks

"Pumpkins 4 Sale"

28ct Lambswool Cashel

Recommended Floss

This is a SAL I was involved in with Jackie, but she whipped this baby out and left me in the dust!! LOL Again, I am further along, but need new battery juice. I really like this one and I am loving the fabby. I have had this fabby in my stash for quite a while and I guess it was just waiting for this darling pattern. I need to decide on a finish. I saw a cute frame on eBay that would be perfect, but I am also leaning toward the cube. We shall see!

Blackbird Designs

"Evergreen"

30ct R&R Linen

Recommended Floss

Last, but definitely not least, is the beauty. I won this pattern in a giveaway from the BBD blog when Karen completed her piece. I will be doing the same thing here, so if you are interested, stay tuned. I hope to have it finished by the end of the month. Speaking of giveaways...I won a stitched piece from Becky! Yippee!! She is a talented stitcher who can whip out some pieces also. I can't wait to show it off!!

I also have joined Mercedes' LHN Prairie Sampler SAL, which started yesterday. I really like how she has divided the pattern up into weekly goals...why have I not done this??? Well, it is a plan for the new year's goals. Such simple things that make our life easier and we just don't see them slapping us! Go figure!!

Have you been to the LHN website?? If you have not, you better go!! Diane has some REAL treats coming out over the next few months. I told her I was going to be in the corner. I am going to keep running out...like the bad kids on Supernanny...so I can stitch. She has some monthly threadpacks that are too adorable to pass up. Not to mention the monthly ornanments, which Vonna has a Ornie SAL blog set up if you are interested. I am going to have to be real good so Santa will be real good to me the entire year!!

I am off to pick up a bit and settle in for a long day's stitching.

Prairie Sampler SAL

2009-10-22T13:08:00.000-04:00

Interested in joining this SAL? Click on the picture and get all of the info! It starts on November 2, 2009...hurry and get your supplies!!

BBD Fall Stocking Exchanges!!

2009-10-22T12:46:00.005-04:00

First up is my stocking to Janice of the BBD YahooGroup. I stitched it on 28ct fabby with GAST and DMC threads. This is my first stocking y'all!! They are soo addicting and easy to stitch. If you have not tried one, do so...I promise you will not be disappointed. The background fabby is what I chose to back the stocking. It even has little black birds...perfect choice!!

This is the lovely stocking and cute coaster I received from Janice!! I almost chose the same pattern for her!! Can't you see this Quaker design stitched in a holiday overdye?!! Can you say ornies!!

Well, I am off to stitch some more so I can share some updates with you!!

Hello, Hello!!

2009-10-09T10:38:00.005-04:00

Can you tell I am a "Nanny" show fan by my greeting? I can watch the reruns over and over and still laugh like it was the first time. Laughter and stitching...good for the soul! Things have been busy in the Wortham household. School semesters are winding down and all 3 of my little varmits are busy with projects, benchmark tests, and finals. I did get my patterns and specialty flosses FINALLY organized to prevent future duplicates...keep your needles crossed! I have had very little stitching time and am trying to figure out how I can make up the lost time! Any ideas???

"Something Old, Something New" Floss Keeper

28ct Monaco

DMC Floss

WDW Floss

Well, I did finish and mail off 2 exchanges, and one has been received. This darling went to Mary Jo of the LHN Exchange group. She is the one who sent me the adorable FOB I told y'all about a couple of weeks ago. She loves sheep and light blue is one of her favorite colors. So, I had the task of figuring out what CCN/LHN pattern she didn't have that has sheep. I totally forgot about the "Something Old, Something New!" pattern collection. Absolutely perfect choice and I made her a floss keeper...in her favorite colors of course! The background fabby shown is what I used to back the keeper. I even found an eyelet to match in my stash! I couldn't resist not including a couple of skeins of floss to match. She told me how much she loves it and that she did not have a floss keeper...jackpot!! Mary Jo, I hope it brings you many days of stitching pleasure!!

I am off to work on an ornie for the next CCN/LHN exchange, pick out a BBD pattern for that exchange, and work on my LHN SAL with Jackie..."Pumpkins 4 Sale."

Blackbird Designs SAL Finish!!

2009-09-14T20:14:00.007-04:00

"Simple Things"

Blackbird Designs Loose Feathers #36

28ct Linen

Recommended Floss

My very first BBD SAL project!! Y'all know I had a spill on the first one I started and had to start all over again. I am soo happy to be finished as the deadline is Saturday. I did not do the backstitching within the basket or the chain stitching because I did not like the look. I am still undecided about adding my initial...I just like it as is. I am going to get started on Evergreen and get that completed hopefully by the end of the month. Be on the lookout for a giveaway when it is completed. I promised to pass it on in the same spirit I received it. I am off to work on my BBD Stocking Exchange and whatever else may tickle my fancy!

Happy Stitching!!

An Exchange & A Finish!

2009-09-12T10:20:00.008-04:00

Isn't this just adorable!! I received this from Mary Jo in a LHN/CCN exchange...this is one over one on I think 36ct fabby. I just love it and will treasure it always! I hope she will enjoy hers...I picked up some items yesterday for finishing touches. Hmmm...what will it be??!!

"Season of Plenty"

Little House Needleworks

18ct Fiddler's

DMC Floss

This little darling has been finished now for about 2 weeks. I have just been lazy with my blogging. I know...fer shame! I plan on finishing it as a pinkeep, like the others. These are fairly quick stitches and are just adorable. I only have 2 more to stitch and complete the collection.

Other happenings...I have been doing some Fall cleaning and organizing. The kids have been back to school now for a month, and I just wanted to clean some things "my way." You moms know what I mean! I have reorganized my floss stash and patterns. Now I just need to enter the stash into a database or list to prevent future duplicates. Also, I joined Weight Watchers to get some pounds off for better health. Last week was my first weigh-in and I lost 1.8lbs. I checked myself yesterday and I am down 2 more lbs.!! I basically eat the right things, but I do not eat as I should (skip meals) or drink enough H2O. So, I am noticing that by doing these things I am starting to lose. As they say..."lifestyle change" not necessarily a diet. If I stay on track, I will reach my goal by December! Happy Birthday & Merry Christmas to me and a new wardrobe too! LOL

Until next time...wishing you joyful stitches!!

Stitchin Along!!

2009-08-17T11:36:00.020-04:00

I tell ya, if it's not one thing it's another! My hard drive died on my laptop and the kid's desktop went bye-bye...it has lived a long life and it was time for an updated one. So, my baby is at Best Buy getting revived by the Geek Squad...very nice folks! We purchased a new desktop for the kids, which I have been setting up this week and using to check my mail. I decided to load my camera today and get y'all caught up with my happenings!

Well, I got such a beautiful set of gifts from Meari!! She is another talented stitcher and if you have not had a chance to visit her blog, do so by clicking on her name. She also has a few funny things to give you giggles. She had a contest on her blog to guess what she paid for a terrific armoire she picked up at the Goodwill Store. I, along with a couple others, won!! Go take a gander at the armoire...only $75!!! She is using it to keep her stash and it looks great! I wish I could find bargins like that!! Anyway, she asked us to pick a color and I chose pink. She sent a pretty piece of hand dyed fabby that she did...isn't it pretty!! She also sent the floss and a darling beaded FOB. I should have taken a picture of my scissors because the colors fit perfectly. Thank you sooo much Meari!!

As some on you know, I had to start this piece ALL over thanks to my own carelessness. However, I think I like this better...go figure!! I can't wait to finish it and get it framed. I have a huge perfect blank wall in the family room and it is going to be full of family pictures and stitching. I will have to remember to share when I get it started.

Blackbird Designs Loose Feathers "Simple Things"

28 ct Linen

Recommended Floss

Next piece is my start on "Season of Plenty." I waited a bit because I wanted to get caught up on "Simple Things." This is going to be a pretty quick stitch and will be finished as a pinkeep as well. Now to make the time to do the pinkeeps...that is the challenge! I rather stitch!! LOL

Little House Needleworks "Season of Plenty"
18ct Fiddler's Lite Aida

Daddy gave us another scare this past week, but he appears to be doing OK. He will not be able to do PT like they want him to, which slows his progression. I tell ya, this situation weighs heavy on my mind every day. Not to mention that my left hand decided to have its own earthquake Saturday. Surgery was suppose to stop all of that, and it had, so I thought. Oh well, life happens and I will stitch as much as possible as long as possible. :-)

Monday I started another SAL with LHN. The pattern has to include a woman, so I am doing "Curly Q Ewe." Also, I received BBD's "Evergreen," which I won from Karen T. in a giveaway on the BBD blog for stitchers. I was RAK'd BBD's "Autumn Bouquet" from Kathy K. on my BBD Yahoo chat group. Thank you sooo much ladies!!! Stay tuned as these will be given away in the future in the same spirit in which I received them!

That's it ...I think! Until next time...happy stitching!!

A Finish!!

2009-08-07T13:43:00.005-04:00

"Seasons of Growth"

Little House Needleworks

18ct Fiddler's Cloth ~ DMC Floss

Yepper...Seasons of Growth is completed!! I really like how it turned out. I only changed the border color because I was tired of looking at green. I think the border color really makes the piece pop. I am thinking of finishing it into a pinkeep with the fabby shown in the picture...perfect match don't ya think?! So, the next one for Fall is on deck after I finish LHN's Fall sampler. Fall is just around the corner and I am in the mood to get some pieces ready to decorate the house.

Today the kids went back to school and I have to admit that although the house is quiet, I am enjoying it tremendously!! LOL I only have one more load of laundry to complete and my chores are complete for the weekend. It was nice to sit in the family room with my stitching and no interruptions. I am working on some secret pieces to get in the mail by the end of next week, so you will have to wait and see those in a bit. I also figured out why my Southern Roots piece became a WIP...I allowed that darn frog to leap his way into my stitching!! So, I have some stitches to rip and fix it up. Yes, I threw a fit! LOL Admit it, y'all throw them too!

Daddy is stable and seems to be doing pretty good. They were able to put him in a wheelchair and let him sit outside for a bit. He enjoys sitting on the porch during the nice weather and was usually there if a ballgame was not on TV. This makes me happy and all that I can hope for at this time. Again, "Thank You" to all of you have sent me notes of support and prayers. I cannot say enough that even though we are far apart, your words give soo much more than you know. I really appreciate y'all!! :-)

Guess What???!!! I missed my blogaversery!!! So much going on and I totally forgot about it. So, I am going to have to think of something real special for a giveaway. So stayed tuned!! Well, I am off to fix dinner and do some stitching before the varmits get home...about 2 more hours. I wish you all a safe and wonderful weekend full of "joyful stitches!!"

SUPER GIVEAWAY!!

2009-07-29T08:00:00.003-04:00

Is this not a beautiful set of goodies!! This is being offered by Jan, owener of
Only One Ewe Needleworks in honor of the birth of her first grandbaby. Congratulations again Jan!! Just click on the picture to go to the blog comment section. HURRY it ends today!!

P.S. I will post later an update on my stitching and dad. Keep praying!!!

Monday Babble!

2009-07-13T12:55:00.010-04:00

Where to begin?! I think I will start with my dad. I talked with mom yesterday and he is slowly but surely showing signs of improvement. He has started to move his right leg a tad and that is a bonus! She said that he made a little bit of sound and smirked a bit. Thank you all for your comments, personal notes, and prayers...y'all are the best!!!

Stitchy stuff...Well, I have already shared a finish with you for the week. I am soo proud of myself!! I have already pulled out another LHN project to stitch with the goodies. This is one of four of the Seasons series. This one is "Season of Growth." It seems to be a pretty quick stitch, so I hope to have another finish in a couple of weeks.

"Seasons of Growth"

Little House Needleworks

18ct ~ DMC Threads

Next on deck...a WIP! This one has been in hiding for at least 4 years. I know shameful! Earlier in the year I had decided to complete a WIP a month. Well, life happened and I am behind in that goal. The good thing is that I do not have many WIPs, so I should be able to complete them all by the end of the year. Keep your needles crossed! LOL

"Gospel Singer"

Southern Roots

18ct Oatmeal ~ DMC Threads

Now for something exciting! I met a fellow stitcher at the library on Saturday!! I was browsing the Debbie Macomber books, and she was sitting at a table stitching a Dimensions tree skirt. I had to be nosey and start a conversation! LOL We started chatting and found we had the same concerns about stitching and lonely for fellow stitchers. We exchanged info and plan to meet, stitch, chat, and munch! LOL She lives with her son and goes there for just some quiet time to stitch. I told her that the evenings when the DH is not able to pick up the DS from football practice, I could meet her there.

I promise to share an update on my BBD Loose Feather next week. I have not really stitched on it this past week to show an improvement. That's it for this week! I hope y'all have a great week stitching!!

I Have A Finish!!

2009-07-10T18:21:00.005-04:00

"A Stitcher's Prayer"

Little House Needleworks

28ct Cashel over 2 ~ DMC Threads

Well, the trip was tiresome and a tad stressful, but dad is as good as can be expected right now. He reacted very well when he saw my DS, which made us all a little hopeful. He has a long road, so y'all keep your fingers crossed.

As you can see, I did get some stitching done. Not as much as I would have liked, but some is better than none. I am definitely getting this one framed to hang in my future craft room. I did get a little bored with the border, but the closer I came to the end, the more excited I became. The only change I did was to the stitcher...she just had to look like me! LOL Oh, and I decided to backstitch the window panes and the door...I like them the way they are.

I did not do any stitching on my BBD at all this past week. So, tomorrow I will dedicate some time to it. I also finished stitching my ornie for the exchange and just have to decide how I will finish it up. Y'all will be soo proud...I pulled out some WIPs to tackle in the coming week. I could just smack myself with one of them...it should have been finished a LONG time ago! :-) This particular one WILL get finished this coming week. I wonder how much caffeine my system can take?!

I am off to help the kids make calzones and get the groceries put away. Have a great weekend!!

2009-07-01T19:28:00.002-04:00

Happy 4th of July!

Well, I thought I would get my well wishes in for a safe holiday to everyone before the celebrations begin. We are off to OH for a few days to celebrate my dad getting a little better.

Some of you may not know, but my dad suffered a double stroke on June 20th. My parents had just left on the 14th from helping us after my recent surgery. We are going now because after pleading and begging, my doctor will now allow me to travel. Dad cannot speak, deaf in the right ear, paralyzed on the right side, and a feeding tube inserted on Monday. I did not know that the muscles we use to talk are the same we use to eat! Did you?! He is now communicating with his eyes and smiling a bit, so that is a HUGE plus compared to where he started.

Don't worry, I am in better spirits than what I have been...thanks to some of you!! You just don't know how your little funnies, encouraging comments, and seeing stitching progress can be medicine for the soul. Thank You!!

So, as I prepare to leave in the morning...I am packing things to stitch! Of course I will be stitching! LOL I have an exchange ornie to finish, LHN's "The Stitcher's Prayer," and something new and cheerful. Not sure what yet, but I will find something...you know how we stitchers are!

Best wishes and be safe! Love y'all!!

Happy Monday Babble!!

2009-06-29T14:27:00.010-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Well, it is nice to deliver "Happy Monday Babble" again! I have been trying to be a busy little beaver. I have some small freebie finishes to share with you that I got from Glory Bee and Helga Mandl. All three were fun and quick stitches to get the ole fingers and hands working again. The first will be finished into a small pillow, the second a door hanger, and the third a FOB.

Glory Bee "Spring Tulips"

28 ct Monaco

DMC Floss

Glory Bee "Watermelon Welcome"

18 ct Aida

DMC Floss

Helga Mandl "Flower Freebie"

18ct Aida Clay

DMC Floss

Now for some WIPs! The first is Blackbird Designs' Simple Things, Loose Feathers #36. I did not read all of the directions and saw that chain stitching is required around the flowers and leaves. Since I am stitching this one over one on 28ct, the chain stitching would not work...in my opinion. So, I ripped out some of the stitching I did to go back and stitch around with full cross stitches. I admit that I do indeed like the look and it makes the colors pop. As a result, I am behind where I wanted to be at this point. Oh well...I will catch up!

Now for my Little House Needleworks stitching...I have made lots of progress on this baby! I hope to finish by the end of the week. Maybe even have a new LHN or CCN started by the weekend! Tee-hee Sorry for the wrinkles, but it will be nice and neat by the next update. I planned on framing it, but my youngest DD gave me her 2 cents and suggested a pillow. I guess we will have to just wait and see!

I hope you enjoyed your visit with me. Until next time...wishing you lots of joyful stitches!!

L@@k Who Is Back!!

2009-06-22T15:39:00.008-04:00

Yes, I have been away for quite some time, but hopefully all is well now. I have had another surgery and so far so good. I have to wear a neck brace, or helmet as my kids call it, for 6 more weeks. No driving...bummer...or lifting. Just take it easy!

I am able to stitch again and I am soooo excited about that! I have to share a finish with you that I had completed in February. "The Needlework Shop" by CCN is my first of many of her patterns and my first linen project!! I am totally in love with linen!!

Country Cottage Needleworks

28ct Linen ~ DMC Threads

My next finish is JBW's Apple. This is my first finish since my surgery. It feels good to be able to control the needle and do what I love. My kitchen is designed with the apple theme, so this will be a perfect little hanger or pillow to place on the collection shelf.

JBW Designs

18ct Platinum ~ DMC Varigated #4210

Now for the new starts and WIPs. I have recently joined SALs for Blackbird Designs and Little House Needleworks. I have also joined The Loose Feathers Club for BBDs and one of my WIPs is "The Simple Things," which is Loose Feathers #36. I am stitching this on 28ct Monaco one over one. I think that I will finish it into a block when completed.

The next WIP is "A Stitcher's Prayer" by LHN. I am stitching this over 2 on 28ct cashel linen. I am soo enjoying the ease of linen. I really like how it looks so far. I am even using my Q-snaps! I do need to get a protector for the fabric...sometime after I collect more patterns! LOL

So, now that my computer is back and my health is better, I will be in touch with you! My time is limited due to my neck brace, so I am doing 20 minute sessions. Just enough time to chat! LOL I am slowly but surely making my rounds to your blogs to see what you have been doing!

Until next, time...hugs and stitches!

Homemade Yummy!

2009-01-25T21:26:00.006-05:00

Mrs. Brenda came to work a few weeks ago with homemade biscuits, fresh honey, and apple butter she had made. If you are not aware, I enjoy baking...mostly cakes, cookies and rolls during the holidays, but I wanted to give biscuits a try. So, she shared her recipe and I added my own little touches.

2 cups of Self-rising flour

1/3 cup of shortening ( I used Crisco butter flavored)

1/8 cup of sugar

1 pinch of Kosher salt

3/4 cup of buttermilk ( I used fat free)

Combine the flour, salt, and sugar into a bowl. Cut in the shortening with a fork/pastry cutter until blended. I formed a hole in the middle of the mixture and added half of the butter milk, blended, and then the other half. Turn onto a lightly floured surface, work the dough just a bit and form into a ball. Lightly flour your rolling pin and roll until about 3/4" thick. Cut into desired size with a biscuit cutter or glass. Bake at 350* for 20-25 minutes.

These are quick to make and I am sure you will enjoy them!

I Have Been Chosen!

2009-01-24T21:27:00.006-05:00

Thank you soo much Terri for the nomination! Now, I am to list 5 of my addictions and 5 bloggers who I think are great. So, here I go!

Addictions:

1. Family

2. Faith

3. Cross Stitching

4. Y & R...yes, I am a soap watcher!

5. Reading

Now the following have to pass this on. Congratulations ladies!!

2009-01-19T19:43:00.003-05:00

Well, I have been busy stitching away on this piece during down time at school. I hope to finish it this week...keep your fingers crossed! In the meantime, I have been working on mailart pieces for 2 exchanges. I wish I could show you the progress, but we all know these are top secret until they arrive at their new home. :-)

Since I have been doing more stitching than reading, I am still reading Nights in Rodanthe. It is a nice story thus far and I hope to finish it in a couple of days. This story has pulled me in and I feel like I am right there with the characters. I will check out the movie when I am finished with the book. Plus...Richard Gere stars in it! tee-hee

I pulled another ornament to work on for Friday holiday stitching. I have scheduled a rotation...M-F - CCN (2009 Project Goals)during school time ~ MW - UFOs ~ TTh - Exchanges ~ F - Holiday ~ SS - finishing or stitch whatever I want. I am still working on my actual project list, so maybe I can share that with you next week. How do you decide? I want to do everything!! LOL I just know for a fact that a Paula Vaughan piece will be on the list.

Wishing you Joyful Stitches!!

Looky Looky!!

2009-01-13T10:38:00.004-05:00

I have my first finish for the year 2009!! YIPPEE!! This is an ornie form JCS 2007 Ornament Edition and is by Cottage Country Needleworks. Also, I got a grrrrrreat bargain at Wally World...a 6ft slender tree for $5!!! You guessed it....my stitched ornie tree for 2009! I also picked up a pretty garland with touches of silver and the white is textured with snow. I plan to use white lights and possibly some silver bulbs...don't want to take away from my stitched ornies with added colors.

Now, an update on my Needlework Shop by CCN. I am stitching on this mostly during down time at work. I have also stolen a couple of evenings at home to work on it. I am sooo proud of myself!! I really enjoy working on linen and I cannot wait to try another piece. More than likely it will be an ornie. Seems odd, but I find that I stitch faster on linen...go figure! :-)

I finished Cedar Cove Christmas and it was a goodie. I absolulely loved the last few chapters and how they related to the original Christmas story. I joined an online bookclub for Debbie Macomber readers and I am waiting for 16 Lighthouse Road to arrive so I can start reading with them. In the meantime I finished reading Dashing Through The Snow by Debbie & Carol Higgins. This is an interesting holiday mystery that I read on Sunday. I couldn't put it down...I just had to see if I was guessing right! LOL Now I am reading Nights in Rodanthe by Nicholas Sparks. I have seen his movie The Notebook, but this is the first novel I have read by him.

Well, that's it for this week! Stay tuned for Joy's linen adventure! LOL

Happy Stitching!!

What in the world??!!!!

2009-01-07T21:16:00.005-05:00

OK...I have been trying to access my blog for the past 2 days! I could not get the page to completely load and just a couple of minutes ago, I got a message telling me that my blog does not exist. Top it off...my original entry for yesterday posted and then deleted??? I was on the verge of crying when I thought my blog was gone for good. I have no idea what the problem was, but I am sure glad my little corner of the cyber world is still here.

Moving right along...the new year brings new challenges and goals. I have already shared those with you and now I want to share a step. This is my first project on linen!! This is Cottage Country Needlework's Needlework Shop. I am using 28ct and it is fairly easy and I LOVE the look!! I now see why folks go to linen and never turn back. I figure I practice and move on to 32 ct when this is completed. I have no idea where it will go, but I am excited to see it finished. I will keep you posted!

I also have finished all of Debbie Macomber's Christmas books with the exception of A Cedar Cove Christmas, which I am currently reading. I had to stop and read The Winding Ways Quilt by Jennifer Chiaverini of the Elm Creek Quilt series. I absolutely LOVE her books and I picked up the latest book, The Quilter's Kitchen, today from the library.

I have picked out patterns for 2 mail art Spring exchanges. If you have not tried this method of stitching, I highly recommend you give it a chance. I promise you will love the idea and have fun. I am also picking out my first UFO to complete and have chosen my January ornie. Oh, I have also chosen the pattern and finish idea for my PIF to Glenda. I know she will love it!

I am off to do some stitching for a bit, a little reading, and off to bed. Until next time...

Hugs & Happy Stitches!!!

Happy Monday Babble ~ Settling in for the New Year!

2008-12-29T22:00:00.000-05:00

YES...Monday Babble is back!! I nosed around at some blogs to see the new stitchy stuff and saw that some of us are setting goals for the New Year. Today I thought long and hard about what I want to accomplish next year professionaly, personally, and stitchy. So, I hope you do not mind me sharing with you my thoughts.

On the professional side of me, I want to get my teaching certification and FINALLY finish my Masters degree. I have gone back and forth in my mind because I enjoy what I am doing, but I also want to open new doors.

On the personal side, I want to learn more about the Bible. I used to go to Bible study classes in OH and just stopped when I moved to GA. Don't ask, I don't have a clue! :-)

Now for the stitchy stuff!! I plan to finish one UFO a month. I don't have many, so I should be done by the end of spring with those. I would like to stitch and finish at least 1 ornie a month. I saw where some stitchers have trees just for their stitched ornies and I would like to do the same. Possibly a seasonal tree placed on the table at the front entry...or a basket. I plan to challenge myself more with a variety of finishes. I am going to "attempt" 32ct linen...yikes!! Be proud of me...I already purchased some! I also want to RAK, send "thinking about you cards," and definitely exchange more. I treasure stitchy things I have received from others and display them in my home...safe in the curio!

More stitchy stuff...quilting! I have to admit I am better at piecing than the quilting itself. I can only stitch in the ditch and I cannot stand hand quilting...maybe I will try it again. I do well with the binding, just cannot get a hang for the actual quilting. I guess I should mention that I enjoy piecing more than quilting. So, I am on the hunt for someone who does nice machine quilting.

I spent my Sunday organizing my fabric, ribbons, stash, and pulling out my UFO's to prepare myself. All of my fabrics are now organized by the seasons and colors. I have even pulled out my long lost log cabin quilt I started about 4 years ago! I plan to organize the pieces and prepare to finish the top.

Well, this is it for now! I wish you all a wonderful and safe New Year!! Look for something else special for many of us to share together! :-)

Merry Christmas!!

2008-12-25T22:00:00.000-05:00

I hope you all had a wonderful and joyous Christmas day with your family and friends. I took FULL advantage of my birthday and totally relaxed. I did a little stitching, reading, playing, and napping. We had the family dinner at our house on Sunday...lots of fun and lots of work!

The winner of my PIF is................GLENDA!! I have already left her a note and waiting for her response. Hmmmm...what will I stitch for her??

Merry Christmas & Blessings to all of you!!!!!!!!!!!

Getting Back Into the Swing of Things!!

2008-12-08T06:00:00.004-05:00

Hello Darlings & Happy Holidays!!

First on the list...PIF. I won this from Donna, and now it is my turn to pass it on! So, in honor of my birthday and Jesus' birthday, I am having a drawing on Christmas! I have decided that every person who leaves a comment to this post will be placed into a drawing with the winner notified on the 25th. I thought that a little holiday twist would be fun!

I have some finishes to share!! Yes, I did steal some stitching time and I have some November completed ornies. Stitching does wonders for the soul indeed!

I have started reading again and found a wonderful author, Debbie Macomber. I am currently reading Where Angels Go and it is truly inspirational. Sorta reminds me of the Touched By An Angel TV series. I have picked up 5 more books by her from the library! Like my time is not thin enough now! LOL

Yesterday the DDs and I went Christmas shopping and had lunch. We had a nice time and I was rather exhausted...we started at 7:30A and returned home around 4:00P. We hit JCPenney, Dollar Tree, Linens -N-Things, Target, Aeropostle, American Eagle, Ross, Walmart, Big Lots, and Kroger. All 3 of my little darlings are very picky, so I decided to save myself some grief this year and take them shopping to pick out a couple of outfits. Of course I have picked up some other goodies to package up secretly and a couple of things will be a complete surprise!!

I am also involved in the Chatty Stitching Exchangers' Advent Exchange. We did 25 days, and I had a ball picking out things for my partner. I hope she enjoys them all!! So far, I have received some yummy caramel creme candies, a snowman candle, studded butterfly measuring tape case, beautiful ribbon, bath gel, Krenik gold, and a candle.

I am currently working on 6 small ornies for the kids in my classroom and a Harry Potter crest for a teacher who I like very much. She is a wonderful 3rd grade teacher and works very hard to ensure her students are successful. She collects Harry Potter things and allows me to cross stitch during down time in her class...a perfect gift!! I will be a busy stitching elf the next few days as our last day of school is the 18th...yikes!! :-)

Happy Stitching!!

Giving Thanks!!

2008-11-27T10:50:00.002-05:00

As some of you know, my dad has been ill the past few weeks. He is doing better now and will hopefully continue to get stronger. This is definitely one reason to be thankful! I am also thankful for all of you!! I have an amazing community of cyber friends who are loving and supportive. I appreciate you all and am very thankful for your friendship and notes of support.

When you sit down to dinner today with family, friends, or yourself, don't forget to be thankful for all of those who support you...including your cyber families!

Happy Thanksgiving & Blessings to All of You!!!

Something Quick to Share ~ Mail Art!!

2008-10-29T20:32:00.009-04:00

A couple of weeks ago I joined Stitchers of Mail Art via Yahoo Groups. I had read a few posts about this craze, but I was totally lost. Well, Connie joined ILCS and invited us to join this group, so I did! I also signed up for a winter exchange to get my feet wet. My partner, Auntie June (Connies Aunt) finished mine up and sent it on to me. I am 100% thrilled to share with you all the adorable piece she sent me...complete with snowmen!!

Also...

I did complete an ornie for me!!! LOL This is a Lizzie Kate Snippet that I stitched on 28ct Monaco one over one. Yes, I do adore one over one stitching! I enjoy looking at the texture this type of stitching gives the piece. I used DMC Variations, WDW, and DMC. I also used Mill Hill beads for the falling snow. The background fabby is Debbie Mumm from stash and will add a perfect finish.

Until next time...wishing you joyful stitches!!

Happy Monday Babble!

2008-10-06T14:49:00.010-04:00

It is a glorious day here in GA! The sun is shining, comfortable breezes, and the birds are singing. I even got a visit from 8 wild turkeys again! LOL I am enjoying the moment with the house all to myself. So, far I have 1 substitute assignment this week and that is just great because I have sooo much catching up to do. Not to mention Friday is a teacher work day so no school. I am almost 2 weeks behind with my Yahoo groups digest mail, there are some dangling projects I want to complete, and some things around the house.

I finished my Lizzie Kate Autumn Sampler and I think that I may finish it into a cube to sit on the baker's rack with the other one I did one over one. So, I need to pull out another small project to take with me when substituting. I am definitely leaning toward ornies for the tree and gifts for teachers.

I did receive the other pattern and floss that were on back order from my ILCS SS. I received Bent Creek's Long Winter and WDW floss for the pattern I received in the first mailing. I love it and I think that this little darling will be a pillow for the winter season. I also received my ornie from the ILCS Blind Ornament Exchange. It is a Santa Stocking! Susan Marie did such a wonderful job with the stitching and finishing! I absolutely adore it!!

Until next time, blessings and joyful stitches!!

Happy Monday Babble!

2008-09-30T10:52:00.000-04:00

Well, it's time to share my weekly events with y'all! I know I missed a week, but the camera batteries were dead and it is no fun blogging without pics! LOL I made a couple of flatfolds...one is for Halloween and the other is for my dad. The witch is an Alma Lynne and I cannot remember who designed the one for dads...it came from a magazine. I also finished my ornies for The Busy Needle's Diabetes Tree charity sale. I am sooo proud of my youngest DD...she wants to complete her first ornie for charity instead for home! At least I am rubbing off on one of my DDs!

I worked some more on my Lizzie Kate piece and my Tigger UFO. I hope to finish them both this week and share their finishes. I worked some more on my Father Christmas, but I can't really see a difference to post, so I will wait another week or two to post a pic of him. Oh, I picked out pieces to stitch for my SS and Advent Exchange partners for Christmas. I hope they will like my choices!

I started decorating the front porch for Fall. I pulled out my wreath where the DH buried it in the garage! I have to clean it off and find my door hangers...I have 3 and don't have clue where either of them are...I will probably buy another one...again! LOL I need to pick out some pretty mums to put on the welcome bench and maybe a scarecrow with another mum on the prim bench. My FIL is going to bring me some cornstalks to tie on the pillars, which I will do with leaf garlands. I think I am going to wait on getting pumpkins because of the heat and they get yucky real quick.

I got a wonderful surprise in the mail from my SS! I received "Snow" by Homespun Elegance and the floss for the pattern I received in my first packet. Now I have the fabby, pattern, and the floss to complete a project!! How super is that?! I also have another pattern on the way and I cannot wait to get it. I have a great SS...Thanks bunches!!

Well, I think this is it for today! I hope to have my Lizzie Kate done and finished to share with you next time. Here' s to wishing you all "joyful stitches" for the coming week!

Happy Monday Babble!!

2008-09-15T12:29:00.007-04:00

I finally got back to my stitching this weekend...sure feels good!! Today I am relaxing, stitching, and later I will catch up on email and more blogs. The house is soo quiet I could take a nap! LOL I also went on an eBay frenzy...not just for myself, but also for my SS and Advent Exchange partner. I did get some goodies and I cannot wait to get them!!

I promised to share a pic of my UFO Tigger, so here he is! This for my oldest DD...she LOVES Tigger and Pooh. I think this may end up being a door hanger for her room.

Also, I am working on another fall item for the house. This is Lizzie Kate's Autumn Sampler Snippet. I am using a variety of threads including DMC, DMC Variations, and GAST. A few of the colors I changed to my preference. I am stitching it on 18ct Aida.

I did take the time to pull out some fabbies yesterday to make a couple of flatfolds, bowl fillers, and a pinkeep. Yep, you read right, a pinkeep! I hope it goes smoothly...keep your fingers crossed. Oh, one of my former students gave me a 25% coupon from her mom, who works at Michaels, and I picked up all of the DMC linen floss line, some extras from the regular line I may need, and some more goodies for exchanges. I wish I would have gotten the 50% coupon in my email...daylight lamp! LOL

I hope all of you who were in the path of Ike are OK and able to return home soon. He even reached all the way to OH and I have not been able to talk to my parents yet. I got hold of my sister last night via her cell and she told me that there were several surges of winds that came through and blew over trees and power poles and knocked out phone lines. She said everything was dark. I am sure my parents are OK, but you know how you just have to hear their voices for yourself to be sure. I am off to get busy stitching and enjoy the next couple of hours of peace. :-) Until next time, may your week be full of Joyful Stitches!!

Happy Monday...err Tuesday Babble!

2008-09-08T01:01:00.005-04:00

Well, I have had a slow stitching and Internet week. I have been busy grading papers, helping the kids with research and class projects, and my DS had his first football game...they won!! This is the last week of my current sub job...the teacher is coming back early on the 15th. I am kinda glad because I can get back a little into my stitching routine and finishing up a few pieces that I have already stitched. The down side...I really enjoy the students I am working with, not to mention attached to a couple.

I did manage to get on eBay today and snatch up a couple of things for my SS and CSE's Advent Exchange. I have to admit that I am getting a kick out of the Advent Exchange as I find little treasures to add to the box. I think I have 6 gifts so far and I guess I better slow it down until I get my partner so I can get a few of her wishlist items! LOL

I did pull out a UFO of Tigger that is for my oldest daughter. As I mentioned previously, one of my Yahoo groups is working on finishing UFOs as a September challenge. I do believe I need to get busy so I can at least finish 2 of the 7 I pulled out! :-) Next week I will have some pictures to share with you, so stay tuned!

Hugs and wishing you "joyful stitches!"

VERY Happy Monday Babble!!

2008-09-01T14:12:00.002-04:00

I am sooo happy to be able to FINALLY share my magnet for Alison from the ICLS Magnet Exchange. She even mentioned to me that the kitties remind her of her very own...how thrilling and amazing!! I also sent her some Tootsie Roll Pops and chocolate covered Sugar Babies...mmmmm! I cannot believe the USPS took almost a month to get it to her! I tell ya, the rates go up and the service goes down...grr! :-) I have to fuss a bit because I was really concerned and I had already started her a new one...maybe she will get that one too!!

Another Finish!!

Some of you know that I have been sick this week with a sore throat turned cold turned no voice! So, I have been subbing and coming home to cold meds and resting. The "no" voice went over very well in the classroom with lots of sympathy and good behavior! LOL The kids had 3 subs prior to me, they had 2 quizzes coming, and I did not want them to go through another change...amazing how a change over of subs can affect students and their progress. Well, during my free time at school I was able to stitch on this and complete it! I added some leaf buttons that I picked up from Michaels, which I just adore on this piece. I have chosen the background fabric you see to use in the final finish. I am just not sure if it will be a flatfold or a pillow...leaning toward a flatfold!

I am feeling better and hope to be back to myself in a few days. I am getting busy with my stitching and will be sharing some UFOs and more Fall finishes with you soon! Those of you in LA and TX stay safe and you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Thanks for stopping by and may your week be full of joyful stitches!!

Happy Monday Babble!

2008-08-25T19:48:00.008-04:00

Well I hope your week went well. I started a long-term sub job on Wednesday for 6th grade Literature. I have to admit that I am enjoying myself very much and a couple of the kids are just a riot. I have a little Bent Creek project entitled "The Pumpkin Flower Sampler" that I picked to work on during free time. I am stitching it on 18ct with WDW, GAST, DMC Variation, and DMC. I am using the DMC Variation on the pumpkin and I must admit that I really like the look so far.

I also finished my ornie for the Blind Ornament Exchange. I just cannot decide if I want to add a braided trim or not. My son took a quick glance at it and told me that it looks like a real cookie...the exact look I was going for! I even added some white beads to look like sprinkles...yummy!!

I pulled out some WIP's to work on a challenge in another group starting in September. The idea is to see how many WIP's we can finish in one month...I hope I can finish at least 2 in my rotation. I got up early Saturday and went grocery shopping because of Fay's threat of heavy rains...which we have had on and off the entire weekend including today. I picked up some more gifts for my SS and Advent Exchange partners!! I picked up the last pack of petite golds at Michaels and I LOVE them!! I don't think that I will use another type of needle! They just glide right through without heistation. I did see some pins for pinkeeps as well and they had a some with crystal tops. The downside...they only come in 2 colors.

Right now I am nursing a sore throat that started on Saturday. I came home feeling crappy on Friday and today it went full bloom. So, I am pumping in the OJ, throat lozenges, and tea because I am loosing my voice...the varmits are loving this phase! LOL I mainly spent the weekend napping from cold meds. I have a ton of mail to read because I have not been online as I usually am. My oldest made dinner on Saturday (tacos), the DH got Chinese takeout on Sunday, and today he put a chicken in the crockpot for dinner. You bet I am impressed and making dinner was the last thing I wanted to do today when I got home.

I wish you all a wonderful week of finishes and joyful stitches!!

Surprise, Surprise, Surprise!!!

2008-08-23T20:49:00.005-04:00

I came home from my sub job on Friday and what did I see...2 little packages staring at me! The first was a package from my ILCS SS exchange and the other was a RAK!! Although I think I know who the RAK was from! I remember admiring this person's XS frame work and asking a couple of questions about how she went about it so I could copy for grandparent Christmas gifts. She replied to let me know that when she got a chance she would give me directions...how do y'all like her or someone's directions?!

Aren't my little snowmen darling?!! I have never had project bags, so I am very appreciative to you for sending them to me. I am not sure what my SS is up to?? I have directions to hold off on stitching because more is to come! Things that make you go hmmmmmmmmmm!! I hope she likes my little secret codes as well! (tee-hee) Thank you bunches to both of you!!

WooHoo...Look What I Can Do!!

2008-08-19T14:16:00.002-04:00

Hey Y'all...I "finished" it!! Not just finished stitching, I "finished" it!! tee-hee I could not wait until next Monday to show y'all! I made it into a cube to sit on a shelf. The background fabby is what I used on the back and the sides. The ribbon is from the $.75 bargin trip at Michaels last week. I did pad the styrofoam with Warm 'n Natural batting on the front and back. I am really in love with 1 over 1!!! I just had to share with all of my cyber family. I am soo tickled...I can't wait until my DH and kids come home so I can share!

Hugs!!

Happy Monday Babble!

2008-08-18T13:17:00.010-04:00

Well, I decided to have a weekly "Happy Monday Babble" on my blog. Of course if anything exciting happens, I will let you know right away! I decided to add my Wishlist here on the bottom and I am sure more will be added as I continue to insist on looking around. I tried to insert some blinkies, but I have not quite figured out how to get them to blink...in time! I am sure I will have a "DUH" moment! LOL

The past week has been rather easy. We are all settled into the school and activity schedule. Although things may get a tad rushed due to a long term sub position I just accepted for a month. So, I am going to kit up some small patterns that can be done during free time. Hmmm...can you say MORE stash! LOL No, I will be good...I promise! (tee-hee) I just have my @@ on a lamp at Michaels and a couple of stitcher mag subscriptions.

I did attempt a new venture...stitching over 1 on 28ct evenweave. I LOVE it! I am doing a Fall freebie from Plum Pudding Needleart . I just happened to look at the calendar and discovered that Fall is only a month away! Can you believe it?! So, I told myself, "Hon, you need to get some fresh items completed to show off...err... to decorate the house." So, I have a nice little lineup to decide which make the cut and to schedule in a rotation. Anyway, the stitches look like almost like punchneedle and have such a delicate texture. You know I am looking at my stash to see what else I can 28ct into something fabulous! I just adore the world of cross stitching!

Well, until next time...may your day be full of "Joyful Stitches!"

I Met My Goal!!

2008-08-13T16:20:00.003-04:00

These are the last of my personal goal...Yippee...Hooray!! Now I just need to finish them into ornies! I am going to wait a bit before I send them to The Busy Needle in case I have time to make a couple or so more. I went to Michaels yesterday, well, to look for other things, but they had spools of ribbon for $.75! Yep, I picked up a few to use for ornies and other finishes. I also picked up a couple of things for my SS Exchange and Advent Exchange, which are coming up. They do have neat extras that make quick adorable gifts. I am off to finish dinner and then off to football practice. Hugs!!

Goodies

2008-08-12T06:47:00.010-04:00

The kids went back to school last Wednesday and I honestly took a couple of short naps on Thursday and got some stitching done on Friday. I spent "4" hours at the high school Saturday so my son could get football equipment! I was mad because I honestly thought that it would only take an hour and I lost stitching time! The nerve of those coaches!! LOL Well, I got home and guess what was in the mailbox...my package from Alison (ILCS)!! Yepper, I got my magnet and some other goodies! I LOVE my apple pie and it works perfectly in my apple kitchen! Thank you Alison!!

Also, I was involved in a Christmas in July exchange with CSE and Lily from the UK was partner. She sent me this lovely assortment of goodies with Snowmen! She is also a fellow snowman lover...perfect partner! I just LOVE the lavender 28ct lugana she sent me. I think I may do a Paula Vaughan pattern on it for Spring.

I need to get ready to run some quick errands and pick up Madden '08 for my son and the DH. Between Nascar, 4-wheelers, XBOX, and ESPN, my house is never quiet on the weekends. So, I cherish the school days when I am not subbing...stitching time!! See y'all in a bit!!

Turning 16

2008-08-12T05:36:00.002-04:00

I remember the days when she pulled herself up to her changing table and had a ball throwing her diapers on the floor...you know the "I throw down and you pick up" game. Her first Stride Rite walking shoes were a size "0" and I had to stuff a little tissue inside because of her tiny feet, which she still has. Now she is 16 and wants to date, although she informs me that she does not want a relationship and does not want to be bothered...I wonder if that will hold on until she is 21! She has the teenage mouth at times, and I have to remind her that I do not wish to place her mouth on another part of her body, but I will! :-) The music blasts from behind a bedroom door and the phone's battery frequently runs low. She is now allowed to wear a little make-up and she chose sparkly eye shadow and mascara. She passed her driving permit test in July and started driver's ed this semester. She is on the rode...watch out! LOL

Time flies away quickly with every blink of the eye. Those of you who still have those teenie weenies and tots, enjoy every single minute. Don't wish for them to be old enough to go to school too soon, because the time will be here before you know it and you will want that time back.

Flatfold Finish!

2008-08-02T21:37:00.000-04:00

Well, Meari's FF class has come to an end and I have enjoyed the learning experience VERY much. I am now inspired to try new types of finishes, so stay tuned! If you have not taken a class with her, definitely make it a point to do so...you will not be disappointed! If you are not familiar with her, click on her name and visit her blog.

My big Buddy is doing wonderful! Thank you soo much for the well wishes for him. All of the bites, with the exception of 2 have healed. He still doesn't like his liquid antibiotic, but we manage...he is soooo smart! :-)

The kids go back to school on Wednesday...yeah...happy dance!! LOL We have been shopping for supplies and clothes the past couple of days. Gee, I miss the days when I could walk into the store and pick out the outfits and they would just wear them. Now, I have to deal with..."that's soo lame," "are you serious," " uh...mom?" and a turned up nose. I tell ya!

I have not had an opportunity to do a whole lot of stitching, but I did work on Father Christmas yesterday...aren't you proud of me?! I sent my magnet exchange (ILCS) off today with her special extras. I will post a pick when Alison has it safe on her fridge.

Well , it has been a long day and it is time to relax. Talk to ya'll soon!

Brillante Weblog Award!!

2008-07-28T21:40:00.000-04:00

Thank you Kelly!! I am truly honored and appreciative.

Here are the rules for the award:

1) Put the logo on your blog.

2) Add a link to the the person who awarded you.

3) Nominate at least 7 other blogs.

4) Add links to those blogs on yours.

5) Leave a message for your nominees on your blog.

Here are some bloggers who I think are "Brillante." Check out their blogs when you get a chance to see some beautiful and enabling work.

Dawn http://thestitchinnook.blogspot.com/

Anita http://anitalittlestitches.blogspot.com/
Stitchhappy http://www.xstitchhappy.com/
Carol http://carolsxsblog.blogspot.com/
Staci http://snippetsandstash.blogspot.com/
Julianne http://juliannep.blogspot.com/
Goldie http://goldstitch.blogspot.com/

OK, I am off to plan my next ornie...#5 is done, but you have to wait until #6 is done to see it! I am going to try to get some stitching done on Father Christmas today. Tax free days start on Thursday, so I will be out with the kids shopping for school clothes...oh, joy!! LOL

Until next time...wishing you Joyful Stitches!

Stitching News!!

2008-07-28T06:13:00.000-04:00

Even with all of the excitement going on with Buddy, I still managed to steal some stitching time. I finished my magnet for the ILCS magnet exchange! Yahoo!! I have also finished 2 more ornies and working on finishing #5...YES!! When #5 is completed, I only have 1 more to complete my charity goal. I need to get back to my Father Christmas; but if time permits, I just might stitch a couple more.

I pulled out some stitching I had completed a couple of years ago and have chosen a JJ Gingerbread Kitchen scene to be my next FF. It is pictured on my Webshots page (http://community.webshots.com/user/JoyfulStitches )in the Jeremiah Junction folder. I have some gingerbread print fabric somewhere in the fabby stash that will be perfect. Yes, Meari has worked her enabling magic via her FF class, which is coming to an end. :-( I look at my stash thinking "I can make this into a FF...and this one...and this one...it just keeps going! LOL Thank you Meari for taking the time to teach the class and I look forward to your next offering. Uh...how "soon" will that be?! :-) A girl has to try!

Also, Kelly has awarded my blog with the Brillante Weblog award. Thank you Kelly!!

Until next time...hugs!!

My Baby Buddy!

2008-07-28T05:30:00.000-04:00

Wow, what a week! A couple of nights ago it stormed with the works...lightning and loud thunder. Well, it scared our Goldens and they got out of their kennel. We had been calling the pound, checking their website, and riding around looking for them. They showed up late Thursday night and Buddy was hurt. When he laid down on the porch, he appeared to have scratched his scrotum (can I say that here?) area and was bleeding a little. I called our vet and she returned the call the next morning. They were on vacation and she was checking messages and referred me to another vet. I took Buddy in and he was worst than what we thought. They believe he had been attacked by either coyotes or racoons...they were not sure which, but the area of the bites is typical of coyotes. He has bite wounds on his back area around the tail and underneath his "boys" were damaged. I did not see the bites...his hair is thick. The doctor believes that he laid down to surrender or he was lying down when attacked.He had to be neutered to prevent any further problems and infection. Needless to say we were stunned and sad because we definitely wanted to continue his bloodline, but his life and health are FAR more important.

He is home now and doing fine. Cookie cried most of Friday night...their first time apart. She was not hurt at all! Maybe he was protecting her...who knows. He has a couple of antibiotics, a pain pill, and flush to keep the bite wounds clean. His appetite is great, which is always a good sign! :-) I told the hubby that we need to thin out the trees so that we can see into the woods. I am paranoid of the kids going out to play, riding the 4-wheelers, or going over to visit with the horses. What can I say...I am a mom and worried about ALL of my babies!

Happy Friday!!

2008-07-18T17:03:00.000-04:00

Here are the first 2! I used a sparkly 18ct aida...you know to add to the holiday flair! I am not sure how I am going to finish them yet, but I have until November to decide. My little angel has a bead in the center of her flower...my first bead! :-) I have set a goal to complete at least 6 because I just joined Cross for Charity group a couple of months ago...thanks to CameoRoze. I hope you all enjoy your weekend!

Hugs!!

Ornies for Charity

2008-07-16T00:47:00.000-04:00

Hey Ya'll!

You all have inspired me to start my own blog, so here we go! I thought that I would make my first post about my ornaments for charity. I will be uploading the first of hopefully 10 to send to the Busy Needle for their diabetes tree. Diabetes runs in my family and I thought this would be a perfect opportunity to help those who have the disease. I have not been diagnosed, but I get checked every year and I advise you to do the same. Most importantly, eat right and exercise in some format to stay healthy.

Hugs!