Show and Tell time.....

I have so much to share which I meant to do last night but for whatever reason Blogger was not cooperating....So first is the stitched gift that I sent back East for my Sister-in-law's birthday and to be quite truthful I think of her as a sister !!!!! So here goes all framed Take Time to Scrapbook © Jeannette Douglas

She absolutely loved it!!!!! I had fun with this one especially getting the picture that small.....the entire piece is smalller than my Gingher scissors! It was well appreciated as I knew it would be!!!!

Next is  Simply Live  © The Primitive Needle done with the Valdani Threads. This pattern just spoke to me and I of course had to start it!!!!!

Next is Nantucket Summer Sampler © By The Bay Neeedlearts....the alphabet was too cool and there are mermaids too cool......And if you remember Salem Remembered © The Primitive Needle It's coming along nicely... I have been having a focus problem lately and just seem to want to start everything......but I have had a few finishes mixed in with the starts......But this isn't one of them and we're only half way through.....She is Hallwe'en Queen © Notforgotten Farm Samplers. I saw her at last years stitching retreat and my LNS shopowner found her for me !!! So very sweet and I thought it's been a year I better start her......I told you any excuse ahem *reason* for a new start! Her dress has a willow tree and a graveyard in it!!!!! Way cool!!!!Next is my SAL with Karen and Christine ....Little witch © MdesignsShe is fun and I actually have a bit more done........ Are you tired of all the pics yet? Here is my Thriller © Sampler Cove A bit more done and I did change the colors to Pagoda Red and Ink black from the originals of Rosewood and Ink Black by Thread Gatherr Silk N Colors.....

Next is a finish which I may not have posted so here is the 2007 Fairy Celebration © PR all done And here Calipso mermaid © PR I just love the fabric and thread it was truly serendipity that it came together. I thought the fabric looked like a deep part of the ocean and the thread just complimented it so well of course I had to start her......Yes we are almost done... Next is Pretty Pumpkins © Glendon Place a wip that called out to me last night so a few stitches got placed after finding all the threads in the basket but that's how these pieces get done one stitch at a time!

I received the best surprise from Cheryl from Scotland A blogaversary gift from 2 years ago and it was well worth the wait!!!! Thanks again Cheryl!!!! I do love my tea and will be sipping tonight!!!!!

That's all from me for tonight! I worked today and just wanted to post all day so I had to sit down and finally post! I hope this finds everyone busy stitching! Oh and the Annual stitching Retreat was so wonderful! A whole day of stitching and being with friends! And it has morphed into twice a year with 2 others hosting a Spring Stitch In!!!!!

Oh and yes I have changed my blog background once again and I am truly finally happy with it!!!

I am grateful for friends far and near......

May your needle fly through your fabric.....

A Day Late....

I find that I have so much to say and yet was unable to even focus on writing yesterday which is when I intended to write this entry....But alas I had one of my worst migraines to date and it only just left today! I am grateful and that it is gone but to be quite honest I did almost take myself to the ER which if you know me you know I've never considered that before! I did call my neurologist and am on the cancel list for his next appointment otherwise it'll be in January. 

But on to what this post is about soon....Yesterday marked 19 years that my sister left this earth and it seems like yesterday! I couldn't imagine at the time making through a day without her and now it's been 19 years! She was my older sister and my mirror in so many ways. I now strive to honor her memory and make her proud of me! It's because of her that I learned to stitch and not a day goes by without me thinking of her sometimes several times a day! She was truly amazing in so many ways but I have written of her before on my blog and just wanted to remember her here at this time of year... I once heard that it takes a lot to get over a loss of this magnitude but I always felt that you never ever get over the loss you just learn to incorporate it into your life...I know I have and I know she'd be proud of the person I have become because quite honestly after she left I had to redefine myself in almost every way since my mirror was gone. There is a line from the book My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult that goes like this..."Without her it's hard to remember who I am"  and that was me 19 years ago....and sometimes that feeling sneaks back up on me when I least expect it.........

Now on to some stitching pics that I have been working on ...First is the PR Mermaid freebie done on a Silkweaver 32ct Intrigue with Purple Iris overdyed thread by The Gentle Art Sampler Threads. Just a start.....

Next is the 2007 PR Fairy Celebration and it's on a PTPlus 32ct Crystal Stellar with Antique Roses by the Thread Gatherer.

And last is The Little Witch by Mdesigns not a great picture but it's just the border or part of it,,,and again it's on PTP 32ct Carnival with the recommended threads....the border is actually in Monster Mash by The Thread Gatherer...it was so fun working with this color and watching the color come alive on the fabric! I am doing this as a SAL with Karen and Christine. It's fun simply because we seem to have all started in a different place....

I am grateful for my memories....

 May your needle fly through your fabric.........

I have been busy!!!!

I have been stitching and just not finding the time to post! I have to get better at this! I was amazed that my last post was on the 7th.....

My Lady's Quaker is done and she is so pretty and with lots of attitude if I do say so myself!!!! I stitched her on 32ct Country French Latte and used Crescent Colors Cupid!!! Just one color I love monochromatic designs but I had 3 skeins which I thought was enough but even with being a miser with the thread I wa short and the dyelots at my LNS wer way too bright! Two friends even looked in their stash and had some but still too bright...is this post sounding like Goldilocks to anyone else....haha. I went to DMC 815 and it was a near perfect match!!! I used almost an entire skein and I don't believe you can tell where at al! big sigh of relief from me a a prayer to the thread gods was offered! I was truly very lucky!!!!! Here goes with pictures....

Don't you just adore the hands on the hips and her wonderfully bizarre hair!!! These quaker designs are so beautiful in their simplicity....I am quickly becoming addicted to them..In addition to Quaker Christmas which has a November 1st start I added Quaker virtues to my stash and have the silk thread on order.....just 17 skeins should complete it....Now to find a way to work it in....haha Thanks for looking She was stitched in about 3 weeks time more so because of the thread issue but really  I simply could not put her down.....The Gentleman is on the short list to start !!!!!

I also had another start and finish in just  3 days but as I'm not sure if the recipient reads my blog I will have to withhold on posting the finished pics! But I promise to post as soon as she receives it!!!

I am wiped from work today so I'm off to get a cup of tea and cuddling time with puppy......then maybe some stitching .....

Hope everyone is well and I have been reading just not commenting so I truly apologize and hope to comment soon! All of your works are beautiful!!!!!

I am grateful for stitching and the joy it brings an for the may friends I've made beacause of stitching.....

May your needle fly through your fabric....

A lazy day....

I am back with my most recent updates. It seems like the last few days I have been stitching non-stop!!!!! So enjoy the pictures!!! First is Thriller© by Sampler Cove ........

I am really enjoying the flow on this one! I changed the colors to Pagoda red and India Ink by Thread Gatherer...the color is more Halloweeny to me...here's a close-up

Next is My Lady's Quaker © by Jardin Prive . I seem to be focusing all of my efforts on her this weekend....and a close-up of the Lady I decided to do her all in one color...Cupid by Crescent Colors on a French Latte 32ct linen...one small problem did arise even with 3skeins...15 yards I may not have enough....and the dyelots of the newer skeins aren't  match but I didn't panic....here's my solution....I'm doing the alphabet in 815 by DMC an almost perfect match minus the overdyed effect!!! So I am happy once again!!!!!! I've only been at her a week or so and am loving her. I even feel in love with her partner My Gentleman's Quaker so I ordered him today...I'm thinking an overdyed blue for him......

I am grateful for solutions....

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pattern

The Sisterhood is ready to travel once again....Jill is done and ready to post her to the next lucky recipient so go visit her blog and post a comment til the 13th!!!!!! Good luck everyone!!!!!

More from me later!

Oh my

I am so remiss in not posting this extra special birthday present I received from one of the ladies Evie in my wednesday stitching group!!!!!! I absolutely love it!!!!!!! I was speechless when she gifted me with it!!!! And that so rarely happens! She had been stitching them for family and I would tease her that it would look great in my house and lo and behold ...I have one!!!!!! It is on the most pretty fabric and the finishing is perfect with a hangar on the back!!!! Thank you again Evie!!!!!                                                

I am grateful for my wednesday stitching friends!!!!!!!!                                                                             

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

Oh my..... Lions, Tigers and Bears.....and WIP's

Well now that I have your attention...do you still remember me??? It's been so long and I really must blame my new toy oh I mean phone...a Blackberry Curve since getting it I am spending less time on the computer which is good but more time on the phone! I need to find a way to balance that.... So here I am posting finally! And let me say I have been stitching and even finishing.....amazing I know! I have lots of pictures and even a cool link! First the finishes.... This was Dh birthday present My Everything © Sampler Girl. When he opened it he was stunned and speechless which I took as a positive reaction and it was! This was a fun fast stitch that I thoroughly enjoyed and am even contemplating stitching it again as a present for the friends that just got married...she is a big fan of love notes and this certainly fits that!!!! Next is the Blackbird freebie © Red Sampler that I did as a memory piece for my sister who first put a needle and thread in my hand! I picked the frame and had a dear friend Adele from wednesday stitching group frame it for me! Thanks again Adele !!!! I love it and it now has a place of honor on my wall...
. It's hard to see but the frame is a black wood with gold trim and fits the piece perfectly!!!!!

Next are some WIP updates ....first is Cirque des Carreaux © by Ink Circles

I am using a DMC thread on PTPlus Crystal Davinci 32ct linen adnd am loving the effect! And since it's not an overdyed thread I can stitch in rows and not have to cross each x as I go!!!!

I was bad on my birthday this week and started something new and not a small piece either......but Thriller © by Sampler Cove and here is what I have so far...

Not too shabby for a days work.....I did change the red to an orange actually Pagoda Red by Thread Gatherer. I just liked the combo better! Next is another new start not sure how I snuck this in ..let me just say that I love Nantucket and think it's a bit of heaven on earth so when I saw this I couldn't or wouldn't resist....Nantucket Summer Sampler ©
. I think that might be it for Wip's....

I am going to start this beauty on November 1st ...and have picked out my thread and fabric.....

I changed the green and red but kept the gold.... It's Quaker Christmas © . I'll post the details soon.....Are you tired of reading yet....there is a bit more...

Here is the link I promised for the most sweet charming charts... Jardin Prive . And here is the chart I had to have .....it was my birthday present to myself!
My Lady's Quaker © which of course I want to start yesterday......there is even an online SAL starting up for it! Don't you just love her hair and dress! I am so into Quaker inspired things lately.....let's not forget I started Quaker Gone Tropic © a while back! And yes I have made progress on that as well...

And this beauty found it's way home with me as well a while back... Sleeping Beauty © by the same designer that did Cinderella Sampler ©..if I could only remember the name.....Why is it that I seem to be loving the big pieces.......

Here is a picture of my bday presents from DH who really did spoil me this year!!!! In there is a gift card for Sephora
Just what I wanted and also the Underword Trilogy DVD!!!!!

And is closing have you seen the new Mirabilia © Shakespeares Fairies!!!! Oh my I am in love once again!!!!!

I am grateful for so many wonderful things in my life....

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

Sisterhood

The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pattern is set to be passed on to the next lucky stitcher so click the link for more info!

I am around and will be posting more in the next day or so as well as some WIP's......

Wow....

Wow amazing feels like just yesterday I posted but it was about 2 weeks ago...... I've been busy between work and my brothers/niece's visit that I have been rather neglectful of my poor dear blog!!! At the moment I really need to be in bed but am posting since if I don't another week may just slip by.....

My brother's visit was good as always. He is such an easy guest and the coffee pot is always fresh with him visiting!!! My nice from California also visited while her dad was here and we had a wonderful time!!!!! A trip to my LNS was necessary as she was in need of a new project.....and as usual she knew exactly what she wanted!!!! Here is an early picture of her start.... and yes she once again picked out an overdyed material and overdyed floss...it will be a tree that I always looked at so I'm glad that she's stitching it up! Her stitching is so neat and even and thanks to technology I can see her progress and so can you! She promises more pics when she has more done....

Here's a quick picture that Dh made me snap when we were in NY recently....
The road sign leading to his Westchester house always a must stop for him and me!

And here's a finish My everything © The Sampler Girl. That I had recently and plan to take it to the framer later today since it is DH's bday present in August.....and it's been done for weeks...truly amazing! And a closeup of my new signature at the bottom although now that I see it the picture is all that good.....a dear friend from SP wednesday stitching group worked it out for me and I just love it! Thanks again Adele!!!!!

I am grateful for friends and family....

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

A contest link

Violarium contest

This looks like such fun!!! I just entered and wanted to share!!!!! And in just a few hours my brother will be here for a visit!!!!!! I'll be updating soon with a WIP or maybe even a finish....

I am grateful for my brother and our friendship....

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

A quick post

Just a quick post between vacuuming (yes I still love my Dyson © Animal) and paying some bills...to show you the photobooth picture of Dh and me at the wedding in NY!!!!!
Oh and I forgot myown blogaversary......it's been 3 years and I have made such wonderful friends through blogging!!! Thank you all for your comments and well wishes and visits!!!!!!

I am grateful for quiet days and coffee....

Farrah Fawcett an angel too soon....

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

I'm back and with a finish....

I'm going to try and sum the last week up in this posting. I was in NY for a dear friends wedding and to see family! And while it was fun it was tiring and thanks to the wonderful thunderstorms our return flight got cancelled. Oh the joy of travel. I missed everyone and was thrilled to see them but it seemed that every minute was packed. My mom is better so that is a plus and should be discharged from rehab soon. Here is picture of me just before we left for the wedding . The wedding was fun and was a big wedding of 300+ guests...... DH and I had fun and danced a lot and it was fun to get dressed up! And they even had a photo booth set up which was lots of fun!!! I will try and post that picure in the next few days! Then there was the family BBQ up in Westchester at my dear BIL/SIL's...so fun. Here a group shot of us minus our nephew since he was taking the picture.. I even managed a day with my dear SIL for lunch and shopping! This trip is sounding better now that I'm writing about it......We packed a lot into the week there. It did rain in buckets our last day there which might be why they cancelled the flight but I never remember them cancelling flights in the past for a bit of weather.....

Now on too the stitching and my finish it was a freebie from Blackbird Designs recently..... I personalized it with my sister's name as a memory piece in honor of her since she first taught me to stitch! I also put two hearts instead of a bird on it for the two of us! I am thrilled with the finish. I started it just before and finished it while in NY. I stitched every down moment I had and dear MIL encouraged me! I do love her and speaking of her she absolutely loved the piece I stitched for her and I think was a bit surprised!!!!! I also started this one while there I loved it and saw it recently on KimStitches3 blog and knew I had to start her!!! Thanks for enabling me Kim!!!! Once home I found an WIP that was calling my name so this beauty has a bit more done on it the mermaid is almost complete.

My distracted mood is still with me but I honestly do feel better even with a migraine this week...think I'm just used to the pain. I really need to go jump in the pool so I'm gonna go. It's 106 here today and hot!!!!! I drank lots of water today!

I am grateful for being home safe and the sunshine..there truly is no place like home!!!!

Farrah Fawcett an angel too soon....

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

No pics....but.....

Thank you all for your good thoughts the distraction is still here but I am feeling more grounded.....I did have another 2 new starts though. It really just happened.....I have no pictures as I am rushing around getting ready for my trip to NY and I can say I am ready! So have a good week everyone and see you all soon!!!! I am bringing the 2 new starts to NY with me and will be stitching! they are both small enough and oh so portable!!!! Sorry to be such a tease but I had too ...............


I am grateful for online friends...

Farrah Fawcett an angel too soon.....

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

Distracted lately

Lately I just feel so distracted and focus seems to be an issue as well so I guess I have that to blame my two new starts on.....The first is the 2007 Fairy Day freebie from© Passione Ricamo being done on PTPlus Crystal Stellar with Antique Roses silk from Thread Gatherer.... And the next has been wanting to get started for some time....and for the life of me I can't recall the name..it's downstairs and I'm upstairs so it will have to wait for another day..... It's being done with the silk thread pack and recommended material a 28ct......

I need to go work on Titania © Mirabilia for a bit before bed..................and remember that Fairy Day is here

Oh and I'm going to New York for a few days......not really excited at the moment since the prospect of packing leaves me befuddled......

I am grateful for quiet days.....

Keeping Farrah Fawcett in my thoughts and prayers daily....

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

What a day......

I am just so exhausted from work that at one point today I just wanted to sit done and cry.......it was non stop and although I know I did good it just didn't feel good.....it was too busy to just stop and enjoy the day and the good I was accomplishing!!! Does that make any sort of sense? I hope so......

Now on to stitching since that is what you came to see....... First up is my Toile Rooster © BOAF..slow progress but progress none the less This is a fun stitch and will probably make the journey to NY with me when I go at the end of the month.......

Next is a finish Stitching Fairy © PR! It came from her catalog which you get when you order directly from her! I just love her and really focused on her this past weekend with great results....she's done!!!! I have to try and remember the fabric but I am sure it is a PTPlus Crystal and the thread is a Thread Gatherer silk...... She is just so sweet! Oh and head over to PR website as the newest freebie is out for Fairy day! Which is the 24th of June!!!!! I will be celebrating!!!!!

And to the title of this post here is my new start Titania © Mirabilia. She has been patient these many years just languishing in my stash pile so she got started over Circle of Friends in reward for her patience. Now I mildly obsessed over the fabric if you can call it mild! I finally chose HLC Pixie Dust over PTPlus Crystal Glory....I was betwixt and between but I went with my gut and know I made the right choice! Thanks again to all who helped me out when I posted it over on Facebook! The Crystal Glory was the favorite but it just wasn't looking perfect to me and somehow Pixie Dust seemd perfect for Titania!!!!! Not the greatest of pics but I did snap it late last night...more to folllow!

Dh and I are going to NY for a dear friends wedding at the end of June!!!!!! I managed to get 8 days off and am totally thrilled even though it means missing the Eric Clapton/Steve Winwood concert that weekend.....but oh to see family is just what I need right now!!!! And we do have U2 tickets for October.......I am totally thrilled for that!!!!!!! It'll be my third and not my last for sure!!!!!!!

I am grateful for my stitching and the joy it brings me....

Keeping Farrah Fawcett in my thoughts and prayers daily....

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

My days off...

I have had a wonderful 2 days off. Yesterday started with the gardener doing some work around the yard and as he is also a friend he helped well okay.... he did all the work but we replanted the 2 areas in front of the pool with better plants. The flowers that were there were overgrown and just not working. So now I have mock orange bushes with hearts of fire around ..... and they are both drought friendly. He also redid the sprinklers so we're using less water. and Don't you just love the dragonfly sticks I added! I really need to go back to Target and get the snail stick. Eventually the hearts of fire will grow around and it will be completely filled in. I am in love with it. He also put hooks in the deck so I could hang my fairie windchimes and I also put up a hummingbird feeder !!!! I'm really excited about that....I just love watching them!

And here is Storm doing what she does best......lounging in the sun....
.

Oh and yes I have a progress picture of my new start.....Toile Rooster © BOAF Not much but I am loving it!!! It's on 32ct PTP Heritage linen. I really need to pull out my HAED Tower of StoneyWood......

I am grateful for easy days off and sunshine....

I am keeping Farrah Fawcett in my thoughts and prayers daily....

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

Quickly my dears

To start I thought I'd post a favorite picture of my sister Maureen especially since I seem to write about her a lot lately and I feel it's always good to put a face with a name....

She is my inspiration and the reason I stitch today. Thank you dear sister for giving me the passion with which I stitch! With every stitch we are still connected......

Here is my latest finish all framed and ready to be gifted to my dear MIL.... It is an italian design by Renato Parolin done with Freedom thread on 32ct African Daisy linen!!!! I will be giving her this as a late Mother's day gift when we visit NY in June!!!!! Yes DH got his time off approved which means we are going to visit and go to his friends wedding in NYC! It'll be for a long weekend but still it'll be fun! Now to get a new dress for this wedding!!!! The only down side is we will be mssing the Eric Clapton/Steve Winwood concert but that can't be helped.....

Next up is my new do.......I did it I cut all my hair off and I am loving it......Here's a picture though not the greatest.... I did it for the first time today and not a blowdryer or flatiron was needed!!!!!!! And she also lightened the color by one level so it's a bit brighter!!!!! I feel cool!!!!!! I have to add that this cut is not as brave as it seems since I had a similar style many many moons ago........

Next is my fabric choice for Mirabilia's Circle of Friends......which is crying out to be started....so maybe more than likely probably when I return from NY ...if I can wait that long..... and the fabric by Silkweaver.... I plan to place the design so the hands are right below the white area....kinda for a reaching for the clouds effect!!!! I did a floss toss and it works beautifully!!!!

I need to dash to try out my new vacuum...a Dyson Animal....before an evening of stitching and movie watching! Oh and in case you're wondering I do have a new start....
I was trying to be good but I have been staring at the model in the shop and wanting to do this piece longer than I can recall and as a friend from my wednesday stitching group said......"I've heard that for a while now" so I figured it was time and would make a good travel piece......

I am grateful for long days off and pool season.....

Keeping Farrah Fawcett in my prayers and thoughts daily..........

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

Annual Stitchin Report

Last monday was the Annual May Stitchin at my house with my friends from Stitcher's Paradise!!!! We had lots of fun, stitching and of course food. It was a potluck and the food was superb!!!!! It was a bit too hot out to stitch outside like we did last year so there was two rooms going...the dining room and kitchen! In total there were 11 of us and we each found our spots and after eating some wonderful food we started stitching! Here are some pictures.....
and and and lastly I look forward to this every year and it never fails to be special!!!!

I was planning a new start that day but the fabric I had from my stash just wasn't working with the thread that I wanted to use so I waited till wednesday and was going to get a piece from the shop. All of her precut 1/8 weren't working so I went with an overdyed fat 1/4 and it was worth it since I can use it for another project. I went with 32ct African daisy a very pretty yellow. I asked my dear MIL her favorite color since the new start was for her and she said yellow...an answer I didn't expect but it worked since dear hubby really liked Freedom from A Gentle Art overdyed thread. Here is a progress picture after only 4 or 5 days of stitching... It's hard to see the pretty fabric...I'll try and take a better picture when it's done...I plan on that being tonight!!!! I plan on getting it framed and giving it to her when we visit in june as a belated Mother's day gift. I do hope she like it. I'm thinking of a whitewashed frame...any ideas????

And lastly here is a progress picture of my Stitching Fairy from Passione Ricamo As you can see I went with a very subtle thread color! I do like bright!

I did a hard Pilates workout yesterday and she bumped up my springs on some of the routines including the arm series and added some new exercises. I am feeling it today but it's a good feeling. I've been thinking I needed to step it up! That's what I love about Pilates it is so fun and you actually get a great workout and usually it's one that you can do while lying down!!!!! Sweet!!!! Even after two years I am not bored since there are so so many routines! And then I think she makes some up but even that works to my benefit!!!!!

I then came home and watched Farrah's Story which I had DVR'd earlier this week. I was amazed by her strength and courage. I have always loved her and this show was so worth it. The love she is surrounded by was inspirational to me! I highly recommend watching it! Being a former oncology nurse it touched my heart and made me realize that I miss my cancer patients and just how much they enriched my life.....it also made me think of my sister and how much I miss her but I know that she is always in my heart and I can still feel her love and always will! ((((((((((Maureen)))))))))))

For all of the Blackbird Designs fans out there....they have posted a freebie to their blog and it is so pretty!

That's all for now as I'm off to stitch....

P.S. I changed my blog template once again and this time I think it'll stay. I like it finally.....

I am grateful for my life and all that I have......

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

No Surprise here and a first......

It feels as if I've been gone a while . I hope everyone is well! I had an absolutely fabulous time in Disneyland!!!!!

But since getting back I feel just plain worn out. I got cancelled from work on saturday and feel as if I'm fighting a cold so I've been laying low and just stitching.....with the result being I have lots of pics! The first one is of my nieces completed yes completed heart...her very first finish.....
She changed the color on the flower petals to help it show up better and I think it's just beautiful! She is onto her next project already!

Now here is a SAL I'm doing with Margaret ( but she may have finished hers already) and Brenda (no blog) ...It's Scary Scrapps

Next is my Nora's Alphabet.... a bit slow going but coming along!

Take a look at salem remembered that I'm doing with Cheryl (no blog) from SP wednesdays...
I stitched most recently on this while at my weekly bowling league and managed to stitch a lot! It even helped my score.....we won the league championships!!!!!!

I had another new start ...I can here you all muttering oh really...no surprise here.....I couldn't resist really I couldn't! A friend of mine Wendy (no blog) from work and SP started her and I fell in love all over again.....so much so that I've been stitching non stop the last 2 days.......don't you just love stitchy pajama days!!!!! I certainly do! So here is Miss Valentine

Not bad for 3-4 days of work. I am even enjoying adding the Kreinik as I go...... she will soon have a face! I just adore her feet in those ruby slippers!!!!!!!!!

And last but not least is another new start on May 1st with Martha (no blog) from SP as well I am doing this on PTPlus 32ct limited edition DaVinci with DMC 3746.....so far I am loving the effect!!!!

Oh and for those of you that haven't seen the new Nora letters here they are.....

I am in love with all 3 but will be doing the M for my niece!!!!!!

I must be going now since I can't seem to stop sneezing............I think it's time for tea and lots of tissues.....

I am grateful for quiet stitchy days......

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

Disneyland.....

I'm off to Disneyland for a few days and oh so looking forward to it!!!!!! Works been a bear lately and I am so glad DH suggested this trip......Hope everyone is having a great weekend full of stitching....I'm bringing my latest new start...Miss Valentine by Mirabilia...I couldn't resist!!! She is just a pink over dyed spot right now but I'll post pictures when I return!!!! We'll see just how much stitching I get done some I hope..... I did get to SP for saturday stitching group which was fun! So I'm off to the bowling dinner and then on to Disneyland!

I am grateful for a quick get away with Dh..........

May your needle fly through your fabric.......

A second finish for 2009

I am completely thrilled that I have finished Cinderella Sampler by WHS ....So here are a few pictures of the completed piece ........I added our initials and year that we met to the top space.........and the wedding photo... I added our wedding date on the side of the groom! It's my own personalized wedding sampler and DH just loves it!!!!!! As do I !!!!!

My brother's trip was wonderful but too too short unfortunately! We did manage an overnight trip to see his daughter/my niece in California which was so fun! I drove there and he drove back! We did dinner in Santa Monica (I think??) and the next morning we had breakfast in Venice Beach almost right on the water! I got my beach fix and it restored my soul! I do miss the beach but with her in California I foresee many trips!!!! Here's just one picture of the ocean.... . We are planning a quick trip to Disneyland next week so hopefully my niece will be able to join us! Oh and while she was here for Easter she went through my stash and now has more patterns!!!! Her heart is coming along beautifully.........she now has a job so it's a little slow going . Oh and we totally surprised my brother/her father with her being here for Easter!!!! It was a good Easter and wonderful week!!!!!

I am grateful for the joy in my life....

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

All about Storm

This post is all about our furbaby...who went digging earlier today....and came back full of mud....caked on mud... ......
... And after a quick romp in the water here she is all wet but clean..... I couldn't resist her mud and all.....my pretty puppy who also just had a bday...can't believe she's 5 already!

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

Take a peek...

Just a quick post to add my niece's progress picture... As you can see the heart is done as of 2 days ago!!!!!! At this rate she'll have it done in no time at all.......She'll be visiting soon so I'll get to look at it up close! I am so excited about her visit!

In case I don't post before the weekend Have a Happy Easter and a chocolate filled one!!!!!!

I am grateful for my family.....

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

On bended knee......

I have had a wonderful day just busy enough but I got things accomplished which is always a good thing! I had a good Pilates workout and even took Storm to the dogpark.....now I have the evening to myself and yes I will be stitching!

First up is a small bit of progress on Cinderella sampler..... hence the title of my post! Does anyone else find it a bit daunting to come up with a catchy post title! I find most times it either hits me like this one or I'm searching and then choose a boring one!

I have some progress on Scary Scraps by Mosey 'N Me..... I am doing the metallics at the same time for the first time and it's working out.....the pumpkin face was a bit scary without the eyes and mouth! And as promised a picture of the model photo I am liking the 30ct fabric after Cinderella which is on 36ct! I know this is a weekly SAL but I wanted to get the pumpkin done!

And now some more progress pictures that my niece sent of her project... and !!!!! I couldn't be more impressed! And the good news is she is planning another visit soon!!!!!! May be time for another visit to my LNS!!!!!

Well that's all for now...I'm off to stitch and have a big cup of tea!

I am grateful for warm sunny days and family........................

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

Much to show and a book finish

First let me say thanks to all the wonderful comments I received about my nieces stitching piece! I was the first to be amaze by her interest in stitching and oh so happy that she loves it and came upon this on her own! She is amazing! I do think it's in her genes!

I have updates on Cinderella Sampler from Willow Hill Samplings....several pictures follow and I hope they are better than the last! and and and my favorite part of the sampler Her slipper is on the path and she is most definitely barefoot....the next scene to stitch is Prince charming presenting her with the said slipper! She is almost done and I love her! The fabric is a Silkweaver Solo and is 36 count!

Next up is my progress on M-designs Letter J! ! I already have the Letter C done for hubby and then the Celtic Heart all to be framed together! The fabric is PTPlus 32ct Davinci!

I hade another new start yesterday... not shocked I know... It's a SAL with Margaret and Brenda (no blog yet) from my wednesday stitching group at SP. The fabric is 30ct Twisted Peppermint Pink and the pattern is called Scraps the Mummy.....don't have a picture of the model photo but promise to soon! Not much done but it will definitely be fun and it's the first time I'm using anchor threads.....just what the pattern called for. And also Margaret bestowed on me this award.... I am so honored! Thank you dear friend!

The rules are as follows:
1. Copy the Kreativ Blogger Award on your blog.
2. Create a link to the blogger who has nominated you.
3. Nominate 8 other bloggers.
4. Create a link to these bloggers on your blog.
5. Leave a comment on their blog advising them that you have sent them an award.

I am going to bend the rules a bit since I read so many wonderfully creative blogs that I just can't pick 8! So if you are reading this considered yourself tagged........


Off to stitch and have a cup of tea.....

I almost forgot I just finished The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova. A simply amazing book that took a while to read but is so very worth it! It gives a new perspective to dracula and is filled with wonderful images and characters that you just can't help falling in love with......I highly recommend it!

I am grateful for dear stitching friends..............

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

Proud Aunt!

Just a quick post from one proud Aunt!!!! My dear niece e-mailed me a picture of her progress so far and I must say her stitching is perfect! But here is the picture so you can see for yourself....
You can just make out the crystal fabric. Her stitches are neat and even! I see more stitching in her future! I get a smile on my face when I think of her stitching and it connects us even more and the tradition that my dear sister started when I was just 10 years old and she put a needle in my hand and said you will do this! Who knew then that this would happen! I just know she is smiling down on us! It simply makes me happy!

I am grateful that I can share my love of cross stitch with my niece........

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

Here I am again

I woke up inspired this morning after a good sleep and yes finally stitching last night! I took a quick picture of Cinderella Sampler so it's not the best! So sorry about the shadow........but it was a quick pic before I put it back on the Qsnaps.... It is almost done! I did more after I took the picture! When I told DH that I was going to personalize it as a wedding sampler for us he said and I quote "don't make me cry" . Yes I married a mush and I love him! I am now more determined than ever to complete it and soon!

I was also able to find the design that my dear niece picked All in a Heart by Miss Crescent's Crown... She started in the center and is crossing each "x" as she goes since it done with overdyed Crescent Colors! And it only has 4 colors as well. A perfect first design!

I'm sure everyone has seen these as well but here they go..the new Nora Corbett Pixies.... Lily of the Valley and Lilac. I really thought there were only supposed to be 6 of these. I have lost count but I do love them! And I may have posted them already.......

I am grateful for my dear sweet husband........

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

Fabulous

I have the most fabulous news!!! I have been smiling for days about it as well!!!!! But alas no pictures does this post contain....It's all about my nieces visit here! We were talking after the hugs and greetings...oh how I missed her! When she asked if I would teach her counted cross stitch!!!!!!! Apparently when she was in NY for those 6 weeks getting better she was also bored and her mom told her she needed a hobby and she picked up a stamped cross stitch pattern and completed it but hated it....no wonder there! So off we went to Stitcher's Paradise (my LNS)...she quickly picked a suitable pattern with Crescent Colors overdyed threads not too big either I think the stitch count was 76x76 now onto fabric...I thought she'd pick a plain fabric....no she wanted an overdyed fabric with sparkles.....I did insist on Aida for her first project though. So she got a 14ct PTPlus Crystal Earthen. And later when we got home we had her first and only lesson! I gave her one of my Qsnaps and she quickly took to it after I taught her the basics. Her stitches are perfect and she truly loves it! I really meant to take a picture. So Dh comes home to the two of us on the couch stitching!!!! It made my heart happy! I have since talked to her and she is loving it! She says it quiets her mind and I totally agree. With needle and thread in hand we are creative souls!!!! I am one happy Aunt!!! It must be in her genes is all I can fathom!

I am just feeling better after a migraine so I haven't picked up a needle this weekend yet but am planning to just as soon as I sign off.....I just had to share my wonderful news!!!!! We had such a great visit just doing things together and relaxing! She truly is my heart!

I am grateful to be migraine free and to have such amazing nieces......

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

My Sunday

I spent my sunday stitching on QGT by Michelle Ink. I am in the middle of the big center motif and am enjoying it ! I am stitching this on 32ct PTPlus Chime and I am happy with the thread changes I made! Here it is The center motif is the largest so I am going to make this my sunday or whenever the mood hits me!

I also made some stitching progress on Stitching Fairy by PR. I chose a bold color choice and I am liking it! I think tonight I will be working on Queen of the Fairies by PR since she has been screaming at since last night! Pictures next post!

I have dinner on the stove so I'm making this a quick post. I'm off to check on the Chicken and Dumplings! Dh is on his way home so I think it will be a Netflix night!

PS .....My niece is visiting this week from California!! Just a quick visit to which I am looking forward too.....She is feeling much better and getting on with her life! Again thank you all for keeping her in your prayers!

I am grateful for quiet days of stitching....

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

First 2009 finish

Here I am with my first finish for 2009!!!! It is LHN "Always and Forever" done on PTPlus 32ct Dill linen with an overdyed thread from Sparklies called Sahara..... DH fell in love with it as he says for it's simplicity! Tonight I am going to an EGA chapter meeting...only my second but I am looking forward to it as I've already done my Pilates workout and had lunch with a friend at my favorite greek restaurant! So I feel at least I ate healthy today!

In other exciting news for those of you who watch "Extreme Makeover Home Edition" they are doing a house about a mile from my house! Yesterday we walked Storm down there and today I went before Pilates and TY was there! And he is so sweet for the few minutes I saw him...full of energy and smiles! Tomorrow they move the family back in and it should prove to be interesting since the streets are rather narrow for that big bus! I do think DH is voluteering tomorrow unfortunately I'm working but I am planning to stop after work.....more news to follow!
I am grateful for sunny days off.....

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

What's new????

I am finally finding the time to actually sit down and write an entry.... I have been off but the days just got in the way.... So first up is my meeting with Kathy A .We met about a week ago at my LNS Stitcher's Paradise and just had the most fun. Here is a picture of use in the shop Kathy definitely had some stash enhancement..... And she came bearing gifts ....so sweet.....my very first biscornu and I absolutely love it!!! The front of my biscornu and the back Along with chocolate which was delicious and a box of tea! It was so sweet of her. After the shop we went for an early dinner and there kept talking and sharing! It was so great to meet her and I hope we see each other again!

I am in the middle of 5 days off and am just enjoying the time ..of course when I go back it's for a 3 day stretch but these days are worth it! I am looking forward to seeing Margaret this week as she is visiting from the Netherlands! We are all excited at the shop! I am making my Grandma's Raisin Cake for the occasion !!!! The last time I made the cake it got rave reviews! It is so easy for me since I've been making it since I'm 10 or so ......

I spent yesterday working on HAED's Tower of Stoney Wood ..I only have the pre picture I feel like I got a lot done but it doesn't show it! I guess I'll be adding this to my weekly stitching and seeing more progress as I go....I joined a new SAL for Haed's called Our Friend's HAED SAL . Stop on by and take a look if you like!

Next I started Michelle Ink's Quaker Gone Tropic and here is my progress which is only about a week's worth of stitching!!!! This is a fun stitch! And luckily I didn't like Nora's "J" so I started Mdesigns "J" not much done in this picture but I have more done now When I did the "C" for Dh I made a major error that I was able to correct by not closing the box so this time I completed the box first.... I plan on doing the Celtic Heart and then framing them altogether . This is done on PTPlus DaVinci 32ct linen that Dh bought for me for a birthday about 2 years ago!

And last is Nora's Alphabet I am done with the letters and on to the feather.....

I have a few new starts coming up in the next few months which might seem like a lot but I feel it's about the process/journey and I am enjoying myself!!!! More in future posts.....

Well I did a Pilates Mat class today and paid the bills so it's an evening of stitching for me! Last thursday I made a big pot of pasta sauce and we have been enjoying that! So I'm off to get a huge cup of tea and stitch.

Ps I changed the look of my blog again....I just thought the other was way too pink even for me and I really love this one.....so it'll stay .....
I am grateful for days off and stitching.....

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

The sun is out!

I finally got a new look to my blog! I have been wanting to get a new look for a while but was just a bit nervous about the whole process....but while on Shepherds Bush blog I found a great link which you can now find in the upper left hand corner of my blog which made the new look very easy!!!!! I can now change the look at will or maybe seasonally......

I am nearing the end of my days off...I decided to add on at work and not take my vacation days so as to save them for when I need them so I will be working 3 days in a row starting on thursday! I am actually looking forward to it...bizarre I know. I have been feeling rather mopey lately but last night I broke that feeling and stitched on Nora's Alphabet and here is the result... It is actually a bit bigger than I imagined but I am liking it on the fabric I choose which is a PTPlus 32ct Crystal Highland. I tweaked the photo a bit to show the truer colors. The letters are worked in an overdyed silk which I am enjoying! I am planning to work on the long forgotten Mirabilia that I recently pulled out of "the bag that shall not be named".... It is Angel Proclamation and only requires the beads and specialty threads...a silk...... So this is my goal to get it done since it is so close to being done...even the backstitching is done!!!!!!! Wish me luck!

I never did get to my LNS for the preview night or the days afterward. It was raining nonstop and since tomorrow is stitching group I can pick up "Quaker Gone Tropic" then... since it has been inhabiting my dreams of late.....I may have to start it as well.......Today the sun was out!!! The day was perfect!!!

I was tagged by Deb to tell what my 5 addictions are and then to tag 5 other people... so here goes in no particular order....

1.My cross stitching and my ever growing stash acquistion

2.My dear hubby not sure what I'd do without him in my life

3.Pilates workouts

4.Tea especially Earl Grey and Prince of wales...well you get the idea I have a tea cabinet which I keep stocked!!!! Next one to try is Stash Tea Double Bergamot Earl Grey!!!

5.Chocolate...need I say more

Now to tag 5 "lucky" people......

1. Karen 2. Noreen 3. Michelle 4. Kathy 5. Sally I hope you don't mind being tagged!

I'm off to stitch a bit before dinner.....

I am grateful for Pilates and the way it makes me feel.....

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

What have I done......

I have had another migraine but took the new meds since it came back with the old meds and the doc said to try the new ones and in what order to take them...I was just so frustrated the last time I saw him and he listened so we developed a new plan. I am happy to say I am migraine free as I type this post!!!! Still post migraine feeling like I am walking through tissue paper but I took care of me including a nap last night and skipping bowling and then sleeping in and resting today. I did skip Pilates as well but I'm off all next week so I will make it up I promise!!! My niece is getting better but she needs to remain in NY so my California trip is on hold but I plan to keep the time off and rest and stitch myself!!!! Thank you again for all of your prayers and well wishes for her!!! She and her sister are truly my heart!!!!!!

Now on to updates..First is Holly by NC She is done except for the beads and kreiniks!!!! Next is Cinderella Sampler and she now has a pumpkin coach to get around in There is more a new start yes even with a migraine I stitch.....I can't explain it but tend to just go with it... It is Nora's Alphabet which I am doing on PTP Crystal Highland! Next and last is an old WIP that was staring me down so she came out.... Queen of The Fairies by Passione Ricamo I did a little on her on sunday and realized just how much I love her! So she'll be out and stitched in my version of a loose rotation!!!!!

I've seen a lot of the Nashville releases but nothing jumped out at me which is a good thing actually and then I saw this... Quaker Gone Tropic by Michelle Ink. I just sat and stared at it and fell in love with it! I love the whimsy of it!!!! So when my LNS called and told me about the Nashville preview tonight for their "Bird Club" of which I am a member I innocently asked if they had acquired it at Nashville and they did so they are holding one for me.....I wanted to go to the preview but feel I should still be resting! I may go in on monday since I have the week off!!!!!

I am grateful for my niece feeling better and my wonderful husband......

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

U2 OBAMA CONCERT from ( Washington, 18th January 2009 ) ( Pride ) ( City of Blinding Lights ) WE ARE ONE

We all know I'm just a bit U2 obsessed! But I tryed to watch the We Are One Concert twice and I kept falling asleep just before U2...it was after working all day. So I youtubed it and here it is a bit long but oh so worth it! Enjoy, Juls

Holly progress...well sort of...

First and foremost a big thanks to all of you who commented and sent prayers and well wishes for my niece! I spoke with her yesterday and she is feeling better. She sees the doctor next tuesday so we'll know more then. My mean red also lifted. I have been feeling tired and just decided to go with it and I slept in yesterday and today till about 1 ish and napped yesterday so I feel better.

I have some progress on Holly although not as much as I wanted. But still she has a face and arms now! The pale blue in the corner is just a shadow. I snapped the picture quick so I could post early and go stitch for the rest of the day.......

I had planned on starting the new Cirque des Carreaux from Ink Circles yesterday with a friend from SP but we decided to wait until March 1st. And have you seen the newest one from this month's Just CrossStitch magazine...Oh my I love it so I am picking through my stash to find fabric and then can decide on thread colors..... well I'm off to stitch...

I am grateful for pajama days......

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

The moon tonight

I worked today and it was a bit crazy but so what else is new these days. We are over capacity and everyone is just as crazy. But the real point of this is to say I was driving out of the parking lot and looked up to see such an incredible moon !!! It made me stop and just be thankful and smile! I have been in what I call a "mean red" (the best way to describe a really bad mood thanks to Holly Golightly and Truman Capote) these days and realized in that moment that everything will work out and I want to shed this mood of mine. The start of the mood was receiving some health news about my dear niece and I know she will be fine but there is a bigger part of me that is just angry at the unfairness of her having to live with and deal with a longterm chronic illness. She flew to NY from California this past week to get the medical attention she needed and I so want to be there with her and my brother but know that I must wait and be there for when she really needs me. My heart is with her and she knows that!!!! I have a week off coming up soon that I was planning to spend with her in California so I may just be in NY.......

I have some update pictures as well that I took a few days ago....First The Little Witch by SB that I had to start a few saturdays ago... I love the fabric (kit fabric).............

I am enjoying stitching this and have begun to realize that one should always have a SB as a W.I.P.!!!!! what do you think??? And next is Holly although not much is progressedin this picture but I now have her arms almost done...... note to self: must take another picture..... I must end here since I promised to not spend the evening on the computer and it is fast becoming late.

Off to get a cup of earl Gray and stitch a bit before bed......more soon I promise along with a newly discovered W.I.P. that I must finish since all I have is the beads and overdyed threads! I even found the chart......oh my!

I am grateful for being home and my new "snuggie"...............

May your needle fly through your fabric.........

Have you done this?

I am getting ready for bed and I have a full day tomorrow staring with Pilates at 8am but I wanted to write first! I went to SP on saturday late but I went! I was all set to stitch on my name sampler and I even brought Holly with me since when I left I wasn't sure what I wanted to stitch on. I'm sure you can guess where this story is going....... It would have been helpful to actually have packed my threads....yes I forgot my threads for both projects!!!!! Luckily I had a Shepards Bush pattern that I was wanting to start. So that's what I just had to do!!!! It is Little Witch and I have been wanting to start her for a while well actually since I tried to buy the pattern twice but luckily I checked my stash and there she was just waiting to be started! Now don't worry I did finish the "N" this weekend......... I stitched all day sunday and it was so wonderful!

I got a pleasant surprise when I opened my mailbox today! Nora's alphabet was there waiting for me!!!!! Now to pick the fabric! Yes I am planning on starting it! I am in love with it!!!!! And I haven't forgotten that I want to start a needlebook soon too.......Here is Nora's Alphabet and

This last photo is a bit blurry but you get the idea! It comes with the Gloriana silks so I just need to gather the DMC threads and choose my fabric!

It's late and I need to sleep....and for some reason no stitching got done yesterday but I plan to correct that a bit later today at stitching group. More later.

May your needles fly through your fabric

I am grateful for the freedoms I enjoy and our new president ..........

Updates

I finally took some update pictures but first my recent Paperback Swap books came in the mail! I had planned on buying both of these books just before Christmas and then decided to wait. I found them on Paperback Swap and I have more books coming! To date I have sent out 18 books! Paperback Swap is the way to go!

Now I have an update on NC Holly! I am loving stitching her. The colors are really popping on the fabric which is Boo 32ct Lugana by Silkweaver. It is an opalescent which I think will work for Poppy as well. Don't you just love her!!!!

And next is my name sampler also known as Rosewood Manor ABC Tapestry . I am doing our last name and this is stitching up fast as well. I did all of the stitching you see on the "N" yesterday! Well I was up till 3 am.....

I wasn't able to stitch or focus on anything last week much to my horror! I was just listless and vegged in front of the TV without picking up a needle! Not fun!!! It must have been the weeklong migraine I had which is also gone. And this week I get to go to SP stitching group on wednesday and saturday!

I also ordered the Nora Corbett Alphabet this am that I mentioned in my previous post. I will post a picture as soon as I get it! So that will be added to my very loose rotation. I found a needle book I want to stitch as well so as soon as I find material... and I've been thinking about a Shepards Bush start too......We'll see.....

Thanks for visiting and reading!

I am grateful to be stitching again......

New Beginnings!

Happy Happy New Year all!!!! I have been planning this post all day so here goes!!!!!

First I have to say that I am loving Paperback Swap

Which is listed in my sidebar! I am in the process of mailing out nine books and my first is on the way to me. I may never need to go to a bookstore again!!! Check it out if you like!

I worked New Years Day so just managed to get one thread in my new start but it was started so that is what truly matters! I started NC Holly Pixie......after much debate she won out! Here are two pix... and Iam really enjoying her and the fabric is making her pop! I joined a SAL for a bit of motivation and friendship started by Kathy A. and the new blog is Stitch A Mirabilia . So go take a peek if you like and if you want to join contact Kathy A.

Next is my updated Cinderella sampler and I will post the designer soon...it's downstairs and I'm upstairs......

and . She is halfway done now and I am so loving stitching her!!!!! Even on 36count she just flows......

May I also add that there is a new Nora Corbett called Nora's Alphabet out there and exclusive that can be seen here at Cross My Heart Ltd . and yes I am planning on adding her to my stash. Although after her I am considering getting on the stash wagon...but then when the new NC letters come out what to do??????

I am grateful for new starts and choices........

Oh and yesterday was my all time favorite authors birthday...J.R.R. Tolkien 1/4/1892. Happy Birthday Mr. Tolkien and thank you for giving me many hours of reading pleasure!!!!

End of the year already..........

My oh my!!!! I can't believe it's the end of the year already and Sleeping Beauty and Mother's Arms are still waiting to get off the WIP's list in my sidebar....

Happy New Year all and thanks for visiting and commenting as much as you did! I so appreciate it! I have a few pictures to share this post. So here goes...

The first is of our Christmas tree which we managed to finish decorating on Christmas morning. I am so pleased with it and find myself just staring at it especially at night with the lights on! and I am glad we did up the tree! It makes Christmas extra special. I made a special dinner including pecan pie and we celebrated by ourselves which was so sweet since it was our first time being home and celebrating together. Dh did confess that it felt weird not being around a lot of people but it made it special. We opened presents Christmas night along with Storm. She liked her biscuits but was slightly put off by the size of this rawhide....it's peanut butter flavored and she has yet to touch it.... She usually loves peanut butter flavored treats.....Behind her you can see my craft bag and basket of cross-stitch.......

I have made significant progress on Cinderella sampler having completed the border all around and I looked at it again and really love this piece!!! I was given the great idea of personalizing it for my DH and me as a wedding piece and that's what will happen. I am going to put our initials in the box at the top with the year we started dating and on the bottom the date of our wedding!!!! It'll make more sense when you see it all done! Here are some updated pictures without the completed border. I just finished that tonight after working today. I find that even if I put a few stitches in it relaxes me after working 12 hrs..... and I am halfway done already!!!! The fabric is a Silkweaver solo 36ct and is just perfect! The border was off by one but unless you look closely or know where to look you wouldn't be able to tell. But I am sure some of you will be able to tell.........Amazingly I am okay with it and since it's for me and DH it'll work!

I hope everyone has their New Years starts all kitted up!!!! I have mine almost all together...I will do that later today. My start is still Holly by Nora Corbett . My fabric is Boo opalescent 32ct by Silkweaver. Well I'm off to bed now I have Pilates at 8am and then it's off to SP for stitching and then another quiet night with DH. I am working New Years Day so our celebrating will be low key.

I am grateful for family and friends and the joy they bring to my life........

With a week to spare

Amazing as this is...my third post in 2 days or so. But I have good reasons!!!!! First I must say thanks to all who commented and wished the Christmas spirit to visit! It seems that I was not alone in my lack of Christmas spirit!!!! It is getting hold of me slowly but surely! Dh and I went and got our tree last night and I am starting the decorating tonight!!! First the white lights tonight and then tomorrow the ornaments which we will put on together! We are stitching tomorrow at SP but only for a few hours or so. I am liking the idea of decorating on Christmas Eve!!! I may have stumbled on a new tradition for hubby and me! I am planning Christmas dinner as well along with another pecan pie.....might have to get some vanilla ice cream too!!!! I want to have a quiet day with DH since in years past we were either rushing to NY for a few days or going to a friends house. We never had just a quiet celebration so I am looking forward to that!!!! Then it's off to the movies to see Marley and me!!!! I have always always wanted to go to the movies on Christmas day it just seemed so decadent!!!!!! Maybe another tradition. Thank you all again for the well wishes and friendship!!!!

Now I have my final finish of 2008!!!! Yes CdC is done as of 2am this morning!!!!! Here are the pictures I took last night under my Ott light!!!! and and !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Can you say love!!! I am totally in love with this finish!! It is such an accomplishment! It is done on 32ct Silvery Moon linen using The Thread Gatherer Silk 'n Colors in Desert Sunset!!!!! I llove the color variation that it acheived!!!! I have already submitted it to Tracy at Ink Circles to be added to her Cercles page!!!!! And since I always sign my pieces but didn't want to ruin the line at the bottom I found the perfect spot within the design to sign it!!!! Can you find it??? I've already added it to my sidebar 2008 finishes!!!!!

Now I'm off to decorate the tree and have a cup of tea.

PS dear Storm is now confused as to why a tree is in the house but is being good about it!!!!

I am grateful for friends near and far online and off.......

Faith Hill - Where Are You Christmas

I have to thank Karen from Gathering Thoughts for this gem! I hope it brings a smile to your face and heart as it did to mine !!!!!! Again thank you dear friend!!!!

Mery Merry Happy Happy

I truly can't remember not feeling the Christmas spirit this badly in a very long while......I love Christmas but this year just seems to be leaving me blah. I spent a very lazy day yesterday not moving from the house and today I must get things done! We are planning on getting our tree this evening but even that doesn't excite me. I must shake this mood. I think my mother's visit just exhausted me plus the unusual snow we had...it was my first time driving in it! I never had a car in NY ..I took mass transit everywhere so it was unnerving to actually drive in it. But on to better things....

I received a most lovely gift from Sally for her recent blogaversary and here it is.....

I absolutely love it!!!!! The chocolate was so delicious and is gone though I did share with DH! More pictures......
and The finishing is perfect and everyone at my wednesday stitching group was in love with it also!!!!!

Now some pictures of our snow here in Las Vegas....and yes my dear Storm is confused and eventually refused to go out at all. I always wondered how she'd react and now I know!!!
"What is this white stuff and why is it in my yard!!!" I believe that what she must have been thinking....




This is of the front of our house...the flakes were huge!!!


The last picture is of my patio and pool including the firepit...just completely covered in the white stuff!!!! Let's remember I moved to sunny Las Vegas to get away from the snow and cold!!!!!





Now if you are still with me ...I have an annoucement!!! I thank all who voted in my poll to decide my Jan 1st start but I changed my mind once again. It is going to be Holly by Nora Corbett I received the perfect fabric for her from my Silkweavers FOTM . It is an opalescent lugana called Boo..... The reason for this change of heart was simply that I have too many BAP's already going and was afraid of feeling overwhelmed...which may explain a lot these days......So Holly will be my new start...going to get the threads today!!!!

In case I don't get to post again before the big day...Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!! Stay safe and warm and may your needle fly through your fabric!!!!!




I am grateful for our fireplace ......

Me....a goal

Hi all just a quick post before I go meet my mother and the pecan pie comes out of the oven.....Yes you read right my mother is in town but staying at The Mirage...her choice. The pecan pie is for the annual Christmas Stitchin at one of the SP stitchers house. Basically a potluck and lots of stitching!!!! I bring the pecan pie..here is a picture of my last pecan pie I couldn't not post a picture!!!!

Now you read about a goal in the title....well I was up to 3am stitching from about 8pm and I finished page 5 and started on page 6 of Cirque des Cercles by Ink Circles. Page 5 was stitched in 10 days!!! So I figure since Page 6 is a tad bit smaller CdC may just be my final happy dance for 2008!!!!! That would be so cool!!!! Unfortunately I haven't taken a picture yet but soon my friends!!!

And I am definitely changing my January 1st start......to be revealed next post!!!!!!!

And for all you Mystic Stitchers out there they are having a huge sale until the 22nd.......so happy stashing!!!!!!

I am grateful for my friends and sunny days.....

Just remembering

Just a quick post that has been living in my head for days.... I have been feeling nostalgic but much more than that. It's something I can't seem to put my finger on or even comprehend completely. How's that for confusing ! I am missing my favorite Aunt who passed away this past October. I just adored her and always felt she knew me best! I got married on her birthday to honor her and her memory but most importantly just what it meant to have her in my life!!!! I have posted a picture here from my wedding she is on the left dressed in white! This is the group shot I wanted and managed to get on that day and it is now in my wedding album. It is of all my female family members...it seemed like I needed to have this shot. Only one is missing simply because she had to work.

Still considering my Jan 1st start...I may be switching it up....so stay tuned!

I am grateful for my Aunt....

Okay here it is.....

This is a non picture post. I am here today to admit that I am an official serial starter......that didn't hurt at all and the sky didn't fall in!!! Amazing but true...... I was talking to a friend earlier and she informed me that my sidebar was woefully not current. To which I said you really need to start a blog!!!!! That being said I have updated my sidebar WIP's to include all but 1 and that's only because I don't have a picture of it! So to answer everyone's next question the answer is 21 soon to be 22 with the New Year's start just around the corner! And my rotation seems to be whichever piece is calling to me the loudest.....it works for me!

I hope everyone is having a stitchy sunday and keeping warm since it's freezing here in sunny warm Las Vegas!!!!!!!!

I'm off to cook dinner and stitch while watching movies....and of course a big cup of tea!!!!

I am grateful for lazy days.........

Progress and how did I miss this????

I started the day with a Pilates Mat class.....before even a cup of coffee! What was I thinking??? But it was a great way to start the day! I am getting better in Mat class all the time and am considering getting a Pilates Ball to exercise at home with. I truly do love it!

I have an update on Rosewood Manor ABC Tapestry....I tweaked the picture a bit and just figured out how to add text to pictures..... I loved working on this letter and completed most of it in 3 days.......

Next is a bit of confusion....I had almost settled on Mirabilia's Autumn in My Garden when I happened to mention Quaker Christmas at SP wednesday stitching group and it turns out one of the ladies is doing it as her Jan 1st start....it would be fun to do it as a SAL. So I ordered it and am sitting here confused. Here's a picture of it... Maybe I'll add it to my sidebar poll...... I'm still 99% sure about Autumn in My Garden being my Jan 1st start but I love Quaker Christmas too......

Next I have a question...How did I miss the new Ink Circles compnaion to Cirque des Cercles and Triangular (which I have kitted up)......Cirque des Carreaux I fell in love so I have that on order as well.......Still considering color combinations...... I'm thinking lilacs or reds...

ETA...I can't edit my sidebar poll so just let me know what you think in the comments....

And thanks for visiting with me!!!!!

I am grateful for Pilates and the way it makes me feel......

A question............

I am sitting here very satisfied! Simply because I have managed to stitch lots this weekend and and I still have today as well!!!! I did a bit on PR's Stitching Fairy and then it was Fairy Moon both on saturday. On sunday I picked up my Rosewood Manor Alphabet name....I don't have any new pictures but here is RM when I last stitched on it...I am almost done with the "A"

I shall take some progress pics today and post soon!

Is anyone else out there thinking of your New Year's Day start.....I know I am and feeling truly torn between Mirabilia's Autumn in my Garden and Birds of a Feather "Toile Rooster" And of course in looking for these I found several more that just further confused me..... So which do you think I should start??? Maybe I'll put up a poll in my sidebar.....And yes before it's said I have many WIP's so I really shouldn't start another one but it's New Years and since when did I need a reason to have a new start!!!!!

I am grateful for choices even if they may confuse me.....

Happy Thanksgiving

I want to wish everyone a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!!!! The picture is from 2 years ago when I cooked the Thanksgiving dinner and my dear MIL was in town. Since she came early this year I chose to work and be off for Christmas this year!!!!!! So I want everyone to enjoy their celebrations and families on this very special day!!!!And eat some turkey for me!!!!!


Here's just a few things I'm thankful for:

1. My very dear and loving husband who truly loves me unconditionally!!!!!
2. My nieces who are my heart and their dear father my brother!
3. My extended family who love me and make me feel so special even if I sometimes have my doubts!!!!
4. My wonderful memories of my sister who I know is watching over me from heaven !!!
5. My friends both online and off xoxoxo
6. My stitching time and the joy that stitching brings me
7. and of course my dear puppy Storm who keeps me warm and safe and grounded xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
8. Pilates and the amazing way it makes me feel!!!!
9. My stitching group at SP . I just love being a part of the group and the many things they have all taught me!!!!!
I will not add my grateful tag line since I've made this a thankful/grateful filled post!!!!

I've been tagged.....

I feel very boring and for days have just wanted to hibernate......no migraines thankfully but just lethargic. I think I stayed in my pajamas for 2 straight days...... I did stitch on Fairy Moon though and am still loving her but that big white skirt is coming........I've been off since saturday unexpectedly when I got my request to be canceled on sunday....can't remember the last time that happened. I think it's the weather and it almost feels like rain.....
So on to the tag...Karen of Gathering Thoughts has tagged me...
Here are the tag rules:
Rule #1 ~ Link to the person that tagged you.
Rule #2 ~ Post the rules on your Blog.
Rule #3 ~ Write 6 random things about yourself.
Rule #4 ~ Tag 6 people at the end of your post.
Rule #5 ~ Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their Blog.
Rule #6 ~ Let the tagger know your entry is up.

So here are my 6 random things in no particular order:

1. I have been stitching in some form since I am 10 years old.
2.I love high heels and the higher the better although these days I've been wearing flats
3.I was blonde for 11 years and no I am a deep burgandy redhead and I love it!!!!!!!!
4.I love anything chocolate especially Rocky Road ice cream but Ben & Jerry's New York Super Fudge Chunk is my all time favorite flavor
5. I love tea especially Earl Grey or Prince of Wales and the bigger the cup the better!!!! I can nurse a cup all night and it really doesn't matter if it gets cold. I must end my night with a cup of tea!!!!
6. I love and cherish my solitude

Okay now to tag 6 bloggers... Deb , Cheryl , Margaret , Noreen , Joanne , Michelle and if I re-tagged anyone I do apologize.......

I am grateful for quiet days of stitching.....

A Quick update

Just a quick update before I go out to dinner......Trick or Treat Fairy is framed and home..... I chose a muted orange suede mat with a metal frame that looks like a spider web...The suede mat is just gorgeous!!!! The first picture shows the fabric better and the second shows the whole picture but washes out the fabric... and

Next is one of two new starts the Stitching fairy from PR she is in her catalog that comes with orders....I chose to do her in an orange overdyed that I fell in love with Phoenix Rising Silk 'N Colors by Thread Gatherer. A bit bright but I am loving it.....I have to look up the fabric but it is a PTPlus 32ct fabric And next is Salem Remembered by The Primitive Needle a bit different but I fell in love with it. Done on PTPlus 36ct Heritage fabric...

And this beauty was calling my name so I pulled her out..... I just love her face!!!!!! I love Fairy Moon!!!!! I need to stitch her more......

I am grateful for joy in my life.....

Beware enabling post.....

Well at first I was just going to tease you with one or two new pictures but I got carried away..... So here goes the newest Nora Corbett Couture Pixies..... Aren't they beautiful....I need more time to actually stitch them though....
Meet Holly
and Jasmine And I can't remember posting Mirabella Bluebeard's Princess Another beauty.........And I really I mean really want to stitch Autumn in my Garden I just love those pumpkins!!!! I acquired this little cutie a week or so ago by Lavender Wings a santa ...I think his name is -----long legs but I have to check on that
There are more to be sure such as Nora's new letters I just love the "G' and will have to do her for my dear goddaughter but can't seem to find the picture of her. Oh well I hope you enjoyed this enabling filled post. I am off to feed the dog and stitch whilst watching a movie........

I am grateful for all my stitching time but need no want more time.......don't we all though

Wow.......

Let me start by saying thanks to all who commented on my last post! 36 in total!!!! That is a new record for me!!!!! I am amazed at all the wonderful people I have "met" through this blog and so appreciate your visiting me!!!!!
I am still here and have been stitching unfortunately have not taken any recent pictures. So I posted a picture a dear friend sent from about 2 years ago. I can't believe I was that blonde......but I was. I do like the length so that is my new goal. ... And yes that is DH and my friend Andrea. We met under extraordinary circumstances and have remained friends for what feels like forever! She is firmly embedded in my heart as is her family!!!!

As I said I have been stitching and all will be revealed in another post.....so please bear with me. I truly hesitated writing at all since I didn't have pictures but my need to post won out. My Cinderella Sampler is coming along and I did start a Salem Sampler and am thinking of another new start ..one of PR's freebie fairies. Trouble is I have a low level migraine that is messing with my sleep...either I sleep not at all or too much......so it was an afternoon nap for me today so I'm sure I'll be up into the wee hours tonight......

I want to say hello to Deb who hasn't been feeling well lately! My thoughts are with you and will e-mail or call soon.

PS ....TOTF is still at the framers but she will be home soon and I'll post a picture then.

I'm off to stitch a bit and grab a cup of tea.............but first I received this from Karen in an email and wanted to share it with everyone so please indulge me :

"Remember...a layer of dust protects the Wood beneath it.

'A house becomes a home when you can write 'I love you' on thefurniture.'

I used to spend at least 8 hours every weekend making sure things

were just perfect - 'in case someone came over'

Finally I realized one day that no-one came over; they were all out living life and having fun!

NOW, when people visit, I don't have to explain the 'condition' of my home.

They are more interested in hearing about the things I've been doing while I was away living life and having fun. If you haven't figured this out yet, please heed this advice.

Life is short. Enjoy it! Dust if you must ....... but wouldn't it be better to paint a picture or write a letter, bake cookies or a cake and lick the spoon or plant a seed, or ponder the difference between want and need?

Dust if you must, but there's not much time . . . . with beer to drink , rivers to swim and mountains to climb, music to hear and books to read, friends to cherish and life to lead. (and stitching to be stitched...my addition)

Dust if you must, but the world's out there with the sun in your eyes, the wind in your hair, a flutter of snow, a shower of rain.

This day will not come around again. Dust if you must, but bear in mind, old age will come and it's not kind. . . And when you go - and go you must - you, yourself will make more dust! It's not what you gather, but what you scatter that tells what kind of life you have lived."

I am grateful for lazy days just wandering around...

She's done!!!!

I am thrilled that Trick or Treat Fairy is done!!!!! Over the weekend I beaded and beaded and beaded for 2 straight days! I was determined to say the least! We even had company for dinner on sunday and I was able to finish her up!!!! I am so in love with her and will be able to get her framed as my dear MIL gave me $$ towards whatever I want for being so nice the past 6 weeks and I want her framed!!!! I added the silver spider to the large web on the bottom left corner since it seemed natural that a spider web have a resident!!!! Here she is ... Trick or Treat Fairy by Nora Corbett from the magazine Cross Stitch and Needlework
She is done on 32ct Crystal Flash linen by PTPlus fabrics. The fabric just called to me...so Halloweeny!!!!

Amazingly enough this is my 200th post!!!!! I've made many friends though this blog and cherish everyone of you!!!!! We have such a friendly community here in blogland and I am so glad to be part of it!!!!

This is also our 3rd wedding anniversary!!!! So we are going out to dinner tonight with my dear MIL and her DBF. We have reservations at B&B in the Venetian! It's Mario Batali's restaurant!!!! I've heard noting but good things about it! It is also their last night here so we thought a trip to the Strip we be good!!!

I've already had a hard Pilates workout this am and feeling good....getting stronger everyday!!!! I am focusing on my abs at the moment and am finding I can do more than ever before......now to lose a few lbs!!!! I do love Pilates and am thinking of getting the Pilates chair that they advertise on late night TV.....I think Susan Lucci advertises it......might be worth it! We'll see!

Happy Halloween to all!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am grateful for joy in my life......

Soup's on

I have been wanting to sit and write for days now but between work and my MIL's visit and being just plain tired it hasn't happened. Thankfully no migraines for at least 2 weeks now. We have seen 2 shows in the last week the first Bette Midler at Caesars!!! All I can say is she was incredible beyond all imagining!!! And then last night we saw Johnny Mathis at the LV Hilton! I just love him and his voice so many memories. So today it's a lazy day I just put on my Butternut squash soup and am taking time for me to update this sorely neglected blog......

Last sunday it was the Annual Stitcher's Retreat organized by my LNS and two sisters at a local golf course!!! I look forward to it every year and this year it was no different! I love seeing what everyone has brought and is stitching on and there were a lot more needlepointers. All in all about 45 people were there and I had so much fun. They serve a buffet breakfast and lunch and then there is a raffle drawing...look what I got... It looks like fun!!!! Then that night it was Bette Midler!!!!!! In addition to working 4 out of 5 days but it was all worth it. What made it even better was that the retreat was on my sister's anniversary so I got to spend the day stitching and just remembering her!!!!

Now on to some updates..... first up isTrick or Treat Fairy.... I am doing the Kreinik now and having so much fun...I may just have to finish her up!!!! Next is a new start from Rosewood Manor .... I am doing it with our last name... It is stitching up fast just a week to do that block...I've already started the next one in a pretty red and will alternate the blocks. and then we have Ocean's Daughter !!!!! So I have been stitching and plan to tonight as well!!! Although Fairy Moon is calling my name so I may just bring her out tonight....

I must say that I went red....my hair that is and am loving it!!! I am feeling vibrant and happy. Sometimes a change is good....as well as getting my belly button pierced yesterday....amazingly it didn't hurt and I'm being hypervigilant about keeping it clean!!!! See what happens when you turn 50 or at least when I turn 50!!!!! I also have a picture or two from the pool the other day....... Here I am with my niece and her DBF and Storm!!! And a group shot of us looking serious with my MIL and her DBF... Not bad for October 16th.......My niece was on her way to California to live!!!!! And stopped by for a few days on her way..... I am thrilled since she will be closer and we plan many visits together!!!!

Well I need to go check on my soup so I'll sign off her and promise more later......

I am grateful for being migraine free.....

End of the month

I must say thanks to all who commented on my last post and all my posts! I so appreciate your comments and love reading them and rereading them. Maureen was indeed special and she is remembered daily not only by me but by my brother and nieces! I am forever grateful that she insisted I learn to stitch and can't imagine not stitching. I did visit Red Rock on her birthday and wished her Happy Birthday and again felt her presence there as I feel it no other place!
I had the dentist today....ugh I know but it is across the street from Stitcher's Paradise my LNS and with some time to kill before my appointment...I mean who wants to wait in a hot car! I got the threads and fabric for Thriller it calls for silks by Gloriana in red and black but since it is a Halloween piece...I changed it up and decided on black and orange on an overdyed gray....will post a picture soon.
Ocean's daughter is coming along nicely and I am loving it! Will post a picture soon as well. Well I have to go get ready we are going to see Danny Ganz at the Mirage tonight!!!!! I've seen him before and always look forward to him...he is always updating and adding to his show and he will be moving to the Wynn soon !!!! So a night out and then some stitching hopefully!

I am grateful for dear online friends.....

A Sister

Amazing...two posts in as many days! My migraine roared in this am but now is gone just leaving the fogginess. So I am going to make today good!!!

Today is my sister's birthday and I still miss her! She passed away 18 years ago this October. At the time I could not imagine my life without her in it after all she was my mirror. I learned so much from her and loved being her sister ! She is the reason I cross stitch and with every stitch I feel that I honor her! Simply put she put a needle in my hand at the age of ten and said you will do this....and she was my big sister so I did and have been grateful ever since! I've adapted but not a day goes by that I don't think of her and still miss her! So Happy Birthday dear Maureen! I will honor you today and everyday! I stitched this piece for her and she got to enjoy it before she left this world.... I added the "Sisters" to the bottom to personalize the piece. It hangs with honor in my home and will one day go to my niece! Another piece I did because she thought it be beautiful is this one .... I do believe the backstitching took as long as the actual cross stitching! But she was right it is stunning...one day i'll do the companion to it. So today is a day for memories and good thoughts. I love you Maureen!!!!!!

I am grateful for my sister and my memories of her.....

Unimaginative title or just migrained out....

Well here I am! I find myself with some alone time while MIL and her BF are down on the Strip seeing a show! I did have a new start but not the one I thought...one that was calling my name loudly and was already kitted up! It is Ocean's Daughter by ?!Who Knew?! Here is the model picture and hopefully soon I will have a picture of my wip soon...not enough done to post just yet...I know I'm teasing but hang on I do have pictures to show !

Here is Cinderella Sampler wip picture and Fairy Moon . I did finish my LHN Schoolgirl Lessons And I started another LHN but at the moment the name escapes me. And I brought home Cinderella from my LNS... Stitcher's Paradise and hung her over our bed Not the greatest of pics ...but I was going to hang it elsewhere in the room and asked DH what he thought and where it should go and his reaction was perfect.. "it's the most beautiful piece you've done so it goes over the bed!!!!" Yes he's a keeper!!!!

I am going into the 3rd day with this migraine not really a migraine but an icepick type headache called "chronic paroxysmal hemicrania" I have been living on indocin which is the only treatment and it goes away but comes back and taunts me....right now it's gone and I plan to take full advantage of the painfree state! I am going to get a cup of tea before MIL/BF call to be picked up on the Strip....about a 30 minute ride...I may just go in my pj's.....I can see the conversation now..."in your pj's'" but I wasn't planning to get out of the car".....LOL! I am enjoying their visit now that the adjustment week is over!!! I do love her and she treats me so wonderfully! There is dinner every night...I think I've cooked once in the past 2 weeks! She is a kind gentle woman who is a joy and it is my honor to be part of her family and she raised an exceptional son!!!!!

Okay I'm off to get my cup of tea.....

ETA...Dh just called and he's going to bring MIL/BF home so I get to have my tea and stitch....a keeper for sure!!!!!

I am grateful for quiet nights and finally being painfree.....

Hello

I am still here! Stitching lots and contemplating a new start! I can hear you all muttering so what else is new but it's so me!!!!! So stay tuned in the meanwhile my MIL is here visiting for 6 weeks so I'll post when I can probably at night. I am still keeping up with reading your blogs also at night. I have to keep this short since the pool beckons and then it's out to dinner tonight ........ I need to remember who's blog I saw my next new start on so more on that next post along with a picture.

I am grateful for family.................

Where do I begin????

I have to say that I have missed posting. Disneyland was wonderful! My goddaughter is an absolute joy and full of love and peace and wonder! She truly restores my soul!!!! We had lots of fun. We even upgraded our 2 day park hopper into an annual pass!!!! And we promised that we'd be back lots!!!!! I truly love Disneyland

The day started off ordinary with the 4 of us going for breakfast before a planned day of fun and then I got a phone call that somewhere in my brain I knew was going to come and I'm not being morbid but I just sensed it. I posted about my favorite Aunt in July well I am so glad that I made the effort to go and see her then. We had a simply wonderful day with her which means the world to me!!!!! My brother called to say that she had passed away that morning. I just cried actually sobbed. I then called my cousin to see how she was and to see if she wanted me back in NY. She was sure that it wasn't necessary and that it was more important that I saw her when I did. Needless to say I was sad but carried on and enjoyed Disney. And now I've been flooded with memories of her which are many...... I will share one and that is that she always wore red lipstick and when she kissed you goodbye her lip print was there as proof on your cheek!!! I would give anything for that lip print right now!!!! I think I'll start wearing red lipstick in her memory. She truly was my favorite Aunt!!!!! I will always honor her in my heart!!!! Our wedding anniversary is her birthday and I planned it that way and so on 10/28 I will celebrate and honor her!!!!!!

I did the drive to Anaheim and it was good since my niece will be moving to California in a few months and we plan lots of visits back and forth!!!!! I am looking forward to having her closer !!!!!! Both of my nieces hold my heart and it will be good to connect with her more often. Maybe my homesickness will abate with her being closer! Having my dear friend and goddaughter here was definitely a plus. Making memories was so special and honoring memories is important as well!!!!

I did bring my stitching along but it never made it out of the bag......I have been stitching since our return and here is an update of my most current new start.... It is Trick or Treat fairy by NC done on Crystal Flash 32ct linen by PTPlus . I am enjoying her but need to get back to Cinderella Sampler as well as CdC!!!!

I have also been enjoying the pool and spa!!!!! Luckily we get to enjoy the pool into October as long as we put the solar cover on!!!!! Oh and we got word that my MIL will be visiting soon actually next week for about 6 weeks! I am so looking forward to her visit. She seems to think DH needs her visit but I think I actually need her nurturing as well!!!! And she will have her younger BF with her once again!!!!!

There is so much I want to say but can't think of it all right now or am just not sure how to write it so I'll sleep on it and maybe it will appear in another post......

I am grateful for my Aunt and what she meant in my life.......

The Best Birthday Ever....

Warning this post has lots of pictures!!!!

I have had the best birthday ever!!!!! Absolutely without a doubt the very best from beginning to end!!!!! And I'm proud to say that I turned 50 this day!!!! I was a bit uneasy earlier this month but it has been great!!!! I started the day by sleeping in and then completed my 4th Pilates workout for the week !!!!!! Then it was errands one of which was to pick up my new Elan Lapstand..... Sorry the picture is dark but I took it quickly to add to this post! I have a scroll rod lapframe but am using Qsnaps more so this lapstand will definitely help! I just wish I had gotten to stitch today..... Next I went to Red Rock Overlook again and it was so peaceful and once again I felt my sister there and thanked her for being the best sister ever!!!! Then it was home and reading while I waited for DH to great home with pizza and an ice cream cake! I started Ken Follet's "Pillars of The earth" and am enthralled by it!!!!!! We were going to go out to dinner but I just wanted to hang by the pool and spa. Lastly is the present DH got for me.......An Alice in Wonderland Teapot with sugar and creamer and mugs.... and and and . I can't tell you how long I've been looking and wanting this teapot!!!! It's from Stash Tea. I have it on display on our dining room table along with the new table runner I found on sale at Williams and Sonoma!!! I told you it was a good day!!!!! I also picked up some organic oatmeal pancake and wafffle mix for when my BF and goddaughter visit later in the week after Disneyland!!!! It looks really good!!!

Lastly is the pair of Pink Flamingos I picked up for the front lawn!!!!! We'll put them out tomorrow!
I'm sure the neighbors will love them!!!!!

I am grateful for a great day spent the way I wanted too........

Better late than.......

I am happy to be say that I finally started Trick or Treat Fairy although not on monday as planned......Some how the week got away from me and just got to stitch a little tonight. I have the floss toss that won...it 32ct Crystal Flash by PTPlus . There are 2 pics of it.... and It is a light apricot in color. I thought of doing it on darker fabric but this fabric won my heart! And next up is a picture of Cinderella Sampler.....it's on a 36ct SIlkweaver Solo... Sorry about the creases but I took it off the qsnaps for the picture! I am truly loving this !! Hopefully I will have a progress picture of ToTF next post!

Now I'd like to send out Happy Birthday wishes to Karen and Michelle who both have birthdays this week!!!!!! So Happy Birthday and I wish for you all that your hearts desire and then some!!!!!!

I went to the Red Rock overlook and just sat and talked with my sister this week. I really feel her presence there. It's an amazing place to go and it feels so right to talk with her there. I've written of my sister before so I won't go on about her now but somehow when I'm there I know she's listening. I plan to go again tomorrow!!!!! Here's a picture I took sometime last year... It's an amazing place!

I did manage to get my oil change done and a myriad of other "needed" things done like the radiator and transmission fluid changed and all the other fluids topped off and a good bath for my car since that's the car we'll be driving to Disneyland next tuesday morning...DH wants to leave before dawn.......ugh!!!!

I also stopped into TJMaxx and did really well......2 pairs of nice jeans that actually fit and 3 tops along with a pair of cute sandals.....all for an insanely low price!!!!! So I'm set for Disney and beyond! Well I'm off to bed since stitching group is just a few hours away...... Then after that it's another Pilates workout and dinner with a friend! I am planning on 4 Pilates sessions this week! I feel really good and have 3 sessions to makeup......And I am also commiting to start running again beginning on Sept 1st!!!!!! I really loved running when I lived in NY.....it's time for just me and my thoughts...nothing ever seemed too serious or insurmountable when I was running.

I am grateful for my life...........

Tomorrow

Well I have picked the fabric for Trick or Treat Fairy and have a target of tomorrow to start her!!!!! I worked on Cinderella Sampler this week and can only say that it brings me such joy!!!!!! I will post updates with pictures soon! The designer on Cinderella Sampler is Willow Hill Samplings but I will check again. I am also itching to start another big project that was originally supposed to be my Jan 1st start...where has the year gone???

I worked today and amazingly it was quiet and I was able to read and get a book almost finished...that never happens.......I was glad since I seem to be short on patience at work lately. So it's a good thing I have a short week off and am meeting my best friend and her daughter at Disneyland in like 9 short days of which 4 I have to work! And then they come back to Vegas with us. I am so excited!!!!!
I am grateful for a few days off and my upcoming vacation...............

Soon I hope

I have been planning this blogpost in my head for days now! Unfortunately I am working every other day and have had just enough energy to read and keep up with everyone's posts. I must say I miss posting! I have no pictures to show since minimal stitching has occurred. But hopefully that will change as of tonight! I have been working on Fairy Moon and plan to take Tower of Stoney Wood to SP tomorrow and work on that and this time I won't forget that symbols chart!!!

I finally got my Cross Stitch and Needlework magazine with Nora's new Trick or Treat Fairy!!!!! Here's a picture of her again.. I have all the thread and beads together and am going to do some floss tosses tonight and at SP tomorrow so I will be sure to post the pictures and see what everyone thinks!!!!!!! And since this was Nora's second chart in CS&N I went ahead and subscribed to the magazine. I also got JCS Halloween ornament issue and must say I am loving it as well....so another subscription there also!

I'm off to tea and fabric gathering so stay tuned for a floss toss post......

I am grateful for choice in my life.....

Have you ever.............

I am somewhat rested from my stretch at work although I'm still napping daily. Aren't naps just wonderful?? As to my post title I got already for SP stitching group this wednesday and arrived and went to get my HAED out to stitch on and I had everthing but the chart symbols! I have never done that before but luckily I had something else to stitch on.......more on that soon. I had little choice but to start something new.....

Here is A Cinderella Sampler that I stitched on while in NY.... I am loving it so. And next is my HAED....The Tower at Stoney Wood........ For the last 2 days I've been at work on the black. Isn't it beautiful?? I'm doing it on 25ct Lugana over one and truly love it. Which I guess is good since this is only the beginning........I am working on pages 1 and 2 at the same time. It seems to keep the flow going.....

As to DH's plane arrival and puppy's trip to the airport....all went well. DH got in at 1:30 am and I got to bed at 3 am and yes much to my great surprise I went to work at 7am.....but that night I was in bed by 9pm and slept through to 8am missing my dental appointment. Puppy enjoyed all of the new smells at the airport but with all of the new smells she hardly noticed DH.......about halfway home in the car she finally acknowledged him!!!!!

I must add that I was nominated by Noreen for a blogging award!!! Thank you so much and here humbly nominate all of my readers and those that are in my google reader!!!!!! I hope that is alright since I am so behind on things and am trying to pare down my computer time to give me more stitching time!!!!!! I'm off to get a cup of tea and a bit of dinner.

I am grateful for days off and afternoon naps............

Been back

I can't remember being this tired but something tells me I have been. I came back from NY last tuesday and it's been nonstop with no end in sight. I'm at the end of 5 out of 6 work days which are all 12 hours......partly my fault since I didn't take any vacation days while in NY. But it's still hard. And tonight I am picking up DH at the airport at 1 am.......his flight is late and I'm due back at work at 7am! Wish me luck......

The good news is that I did stitch while in NY but don't have a picture yet...... I started Cinderella Sampler and will have a picture soon. I am taking a break from Fairy Moon while I write this.

NY was good! It was great seeing family and reconnecting. I packed a lot into 5 days. ..... Most importantly I got to see my favorite Aunt who will be 90 on my wedding anniversary in October. She recently went into a nursing home and I really just felt the need to see her. She is doing well and it brought me joy to see her! She even beat my DH several rounds of gin rummy!!! She was the one I went to growing up when I wanted the truth...she didn't tell you what you wanted to hear but what you needed to hear! While there I saw my cousins as well as DH's family. We stayed with my MIL which of course caused tension with my mother but when isn't there tension with her. And of course we saw my mother but that was difficult at best. And now since DH stayed a bit longer it's been me and puppy!!!! Well I'm off to check on his flight and do a bit more stitching and try to stay awake! I think I'll bring puppy to the airport with me...it being so late and all!!!!!

I am grateful for my Favorite Aunt and the relationship we have........

One last post or two in one day

Hi again. Just one more post before work and leaving for NY....Did every one see the newest pixies......if not here they are!!!!! Iris
and Morning Glory
Thanks for visiting and see you all next week...oh and I had a new start today.....details next week when I return!

I am grateful for friends......

wednesday.....

Hi all! I hope everyone is having a good day! I was supposed to go to Pilates this am but decided to listen to my tired body and canceled. I was there and worked out yesterday and the next few days are going to be busy with leaving for NY on friday. It's a quick trip for me since I didn't take any vacation time and just grouped my days off together....so I'll be working solid when I get back but it will be worth it to see my family!!!!!

My post title is rather unoriginal but I'm still waking up! I did finish page 4 of CdC!!!! And here it is... Now I only have 2 pages left!!!!!! Well I'm off to wednesdays stitching group at SP then to get my natural blonde done.

P.S. For those of you out there who love Venus Threads.....Passione Ricamo is now selling single skeins on her site!!!!!

I am grateful for coffee in the morning..........

CdC update and What's this???

I just felt like posting today! I am feeling much better and worked the last 2 days. I have just today off and will work the next 2 days. Then to New York next week!!!!!! The migraine finally left after 5 days and it's amazing not to have head pain or the fogginess that always always follows. Thanks for all of your well wishes! I truly believe they helped me to feel better!

I have a CdC update to share ....it feels like this page is just working up reallly fast! And then I only have 2 pages left!!! I am enjoying this project more and more everyday! I am thrilled it called my name a few weeks ago and I listened!!!!!! Here is CdC The fabric is actually much lighter IRL . It's Silvery moon 32 ct linen!

I was on the Mirabilia Stitchers the other day and someone kindly posted about a new design by Nora Corbett!!!!! It is coming in the Sept 2008 issue of Cross Stitch and Needlework magazine. Here is the Trick or Treat Fairy She is a beauty and I've already placed my order for the magazine at SP!!!!! I love Halloween and pumpkins and that time of year the most!!!!!! I even got married the friday before Halloween 3 years ago!!!!! It wasn't a theme wedding but my table centerpieces were pumpkins with flowers. The pumpkins were the actual vases!!!!!! I have always loved pumpkins!!!!! I am rambling so let me get back to stitching and laundry!

I am grateful for Nora and her wonderful designs.....

Amazing

A quick post before I go to SP today! I am finally feeling better! The fog continues but the pain is gone almost! I wish I could of wished it away but no. I went to Pilates yesterday which may or may not have been smart. I did an easy workout and wanted to show it that it wasn't winning. I really think of my migraines as a separate entity at times. The workout was rough but I did it!!!

Now on to pictures...first an update of CdC by Ink Circles I am on to page 3 but it really is page 4 for me since I went out of order. I was a bit nervous that I wouldn't have enough room. Has that ever happened to you??? This is what happened...... The material was rather large so after starting it and realizing it wouldn't fit on the scroll bars so I cut the material.....never a good idea. But it all works out well since I stitched page 3 all the way across and thankfully it fit!!!!! I am loving this and so does DH......amazing is all he says! Oh and he keeps commmenting on my last finish and how much he loves it!!!! He is a keeper! Next is a WIP that I hadn't posted in my sidebar. I really must keep that up to date! It is Blonde Cameo Beauty by PR ..... I started it a while back. I also have one other one that is started but not in my sidebar.... And so Margaret I do have more WIP's than I thought. You were right after all. I will fix my sidebar soon......I truly believe only one is missing now.....

Well I'm off to a cup of coffee and SP......

I am grateful for feeling better..........

a second post in 2 days...

First I want to say thanks for all of the warm wishes I received after yesterdays post! I feel blessed to be a part of this community! I wish we could all sit down to tea and stitching together! The migraine got better and then worse this am but I am refusing to let it win! It is now a dull ache in my right temple. But enough of it let me show you what I completed today! Yes PR's Fairy Celebration 3 is stitched beaded and signed! It is done on 32ct PTPlus Kermit (one of my favorite colors) with an overdyed thread by threadworks in 1158 and overdyed purple. I absolutely adore this piece and look forward to doing FC2 and another one that she included in her catalogue! The fabric and thread is all picked out as well. I have also signed up for a secret RR....my first! But news on that will remain a secret for a while. Sorry to tease............

I'm off to a cup of tea and some stitching and a second watching of The Other Boleyn Girl which needs to be returned to Netflix and awaiting the first disc of The Tudors.......so exciting!!!!! I love anything to do with Anne Boleyn and have for years!

I am grateful for lazy days and cups of tea......

An Anniversary of Sorts.....

I really should be at work today......but I had such a migraine. I think it's been coming for about two weeks now if that's possible. I am finally feeling better after having to leave work at 1 pm instead of the usual 7:30pm. I have been taking meds every 8 hours and sleeping lots.......so no stitching but hopefully later. No pool either since the bright sun is still bothering my eyes. It feels as if I'm walking through a cloud or tissue paper...does that make any sense??? It's just how I am post migraine. Thanks for listening!

I have some progress to show and with any luck PR's Fairy Celebration 3 will be done by tonight! But in the meantime here she is before I add the beads.....my little personalization since she doesn't call for beads but I've done it for the first two and since eventually they will be all framed on one wall together I want them to share the beading! Here she is.... She is on PTPlus 32ct Kermit linen using a purple overdyed #1158 from Threadworks. So stay tuned for the finish in the next few days! I'm not sure I posted my start on The Tower of Stoneywood....a HAED.....so here it is.... Isn't it pretty! I see many hours devoted to it!!!!

Oh wait it's my blogaversary today!!!!! It's 2 years that I've been blogging!!!!! I have "met" many wonderful people and must say that the stitching blogging community is wondeful! Now if I was a bit more organized I would have thought of something fun to do but alas I didn't......it's just me stitching and blogging in my way!

Oh and I spoke with an old friend from NY today! That was really a bright spot since we've known each other for over 20 years and have been dear friends for almost that long! It's amazing with friends like that you can just pick up the phone and no matter how much time has passed it's like we spoke yesterday!!!!! He reminded me of the fun stuff we used to do in NYC and instead of making me sad I smiled!!!! His one comment was "you made yourself happy" and it's true. I may see him on my NY trip in a few weeks anyway I hope too!!!!!! I have another friend who is having surgery tomorrow so please keep her in your thoughts! I wish I could be there with her but I'll be there in spirit.

Off to watch DVD's and possibly stitch......

I am grateful for friends old and new and the joy they bring to my life......

Rather boring

Well I've wanted to post all day but something or the lack of time prevented the post. I have been rather boring today. Yesterday I went to the Saturday SP group and had fun and stitched a fair amount. Then it was a bit of shopping and to the poolside. I do love just relaxing on a raft in the pool which is a warm 86 degrees most days considering it was 111 degrees today....a nice warm dry heat. I did remember to hydate. I actually used my new pink goggles and did some laps today. And I did like it but my stamina is not great for swimming so that I'm going to work on this summer!!!!

I have no new pictures to share but Fairy Celebration 3 is coming along quickly. I will have more pictures by midweek so stay tuned. As I said I'm rather boring and it's time for bed so sweet dreams everyone!

I am grateful for joy and sunny days.....

The Star Returns

Hello all! I am happy to report a great Pilates workout today....my third this week! And to make it even better I mastered or shall we say remastered the Star position Mine didn't look quite so perfect but I'm working on it!!! I haven't been able to do it since my surgery in January but today was the day!!!!! I was thrilled as was my instructor!!!!!! My core is getting stronger and I can do more. It makes me confident and empowered (I love that word). On to stitching........

I am now the proud owner of Nora's Letter C !!!!! It will be for one of my nieces...she knows who she is!!!! I just have to find the perfect fabric......time to explore my stash! I am planning to do the letters C, M, K, G (and J for me) as they come out as belated Bridal gifts for my bridal party...it's an idea I've had for a while and at first I was going to do M-designs letters but then Nora stole my heart with her letters.

Next is PR's Fairy Celebration 3.... And here is my progress so far She is being done on PTPlus Kermit 32ct linen with a wonderful purple overdyed from Threadworks!!! I am loving stitching her. A bold color combo but it looks so beautiful!!! I will do FC2 next which is already kitted! And as an FYI Fairy Day is June 24th so let's get our wings ready and celebrate these wonderful beings!!!!!

Next is an update on Cirque...I finished the 3rd page in what seemed like record time.....

This week was week 3 of SP anniversary sale and they had fabric on sale so I managed a few pieces and also 3 scissor fobs (not on sale but what the hey!) from My Big Toe trunk show. A mermaid a castle and Cinderella.....pics next post..........Next week is threads on sale...... Oh and I got a new chart (no surprise there) by Willow Hill Samplings called Cinderella Sampler. I have the perfect fabric (from my stash) and will pick up the threads next week during the sale. I couldn't resist...my sister's nickname for me was Cinderella....I'll explain in a future post. And will add a picture as well of the chart! She will be my next start...

Thanks for stopping by and visiting with me!!!!

I am grateful for the time I had with my sister and my memories..........

Promises and stash

I have kept my promise to post today!!!! I did get a full blown migraine yesterday but took my Relpax and it was on it's way out all that was left was the tingling in my neck which is a sure sign of its demise!!!! I took it easy today having breakfast outside and stitching a bit in the afternoon. Then it was off to Pilates Mat class. I do like it but I'm still adjusting since it doesn't involve equipment like the reformer or chair but is all you!!!! I am a bit sore but it feels good. Then after walk around the neighborhood with my puppy the evening is mine since DH is at work. So now that I've filled you in on my day on to pictures!!!

First the stash as promised..... . This appealed to me since reading Jane Austen! I am so liking LHN all of a sudden!!! And another HAED... I have no intention of starting this one anytime soon but it so reminded me of the Elves in Lord of The Rings that I couldn't resist especially during this weeks sale on charts. I read LOTR about nine yes nine times and loved it more with each read.....It reminds me of the scene where the elves are leaving MiddleEarth......And lastly my first Chatelaine.... I simply fell in love with the colors and have no intention of starting this one yet either but I will have it when the mood strikes......Someone at SP yesterday said "did you see all the beads on it?" I just thought it was too beautiful to care about the enormous amount of beads.....

And my new start as of tonight..... It is PR's Fairy Celebration 3. I had the fabric in my stash it's PTPlus 32ct Kermit!!!! And the thread is from Threadworks a really pretty overdyed purple. And since Fairy day is June 24th it seems appropriate to start! Now to get fairy celebration 2 done as well. If you may recall I did Fairy Celebration 1 twice.......

I was thinking of stopping my FOTM from Silkweavers but then I got this beautiful piece and think maybe not just yet.... It Poltergeist 32ct Lugana... the color is a soft pale purple and oh so luscious!!!!

I am grateful for quiet days off and stitching.....

Where oh where.....

I have no idea why I haven't posted except to say that I have been stitching! I feel better the migraines have been minimal although I have one now but I will not let it win. I will nap after posting this. I hope all is well with everyone and want to start by saying Thank You for all of the lovely comments that I have received!!! I so appreciate them!!!!!!!

I did start The Tower of Stoney Wood!!! And I am loving it!!!!! And Fairy moon is coming along. I picked up Cirque on friday when a friend was over and have been focusing on it. I told you I was stitching a lot! I have 2 friends that I work with and they happen to stitch as well so we do impromptu get togethers. And I am happy to say they have both joined the wednesday stitching group at SP!!!!! Speaking of SP they are having their 5th anniversary with a month long celebration!!! Each week is a new sale during June. This week was charts!!!! I got another HAED that I have been eyeing for a while. I also got my first Chatelaine.......aren't you happy Deb !!! Along with one other one by LHN!!!!! I will post pictures most likely tomorrow.....

We have a group of us within the stitching group that are reading Jane Austen as a read along and we had our first luncheon yesterday!!!! We had such fun!!!! On another note I watched Capote with Philip Seymour Hoffman as Truman Capote all I can say is wow!!! I loved every minute and PSH was spectacular! I went out and bought a copy of In Cold Blood...I have never read it and am looking forward to starting it maybe tonight! Not a light read but I've been meaning to read it since last summer so here goes......

And for anyone who hasn't seen the new Nora Corbett Fairy Letters ...Here they are .....A, B, and C.....I had planned to do Mdesigns Celtic letters for my nieces and SIL as a belated thank you gift for sharing my wedding day as bridesmaids and best woman but now I plan to do these!!!!! I have the C on order and of course the J for myself when it comes out!!! Thank you again Nora for such lovely patterns to cross stitch.

I am grateful for my love of counted cross stitch......

Happy day

Well after working the 3 day weekend and it not being a typical quiet holiday weekend. I was exhausted yesterday so I just vegged and enjoyed the spa! I switched tuesday for monday since they were short and got the time and a half for working the holiday and then an added bonus of 3 days off in a row. I have been feeling tired lately and not even up to my usual...I even cancelled Pilates today so now I have 2 sessions to make up. Today was stitching group and then I went to get my hair done.....it always amazes me just how quickly the roots start showing up!!! I treated myself to a pedicure today it's been ages since I had one and with it being the summer and all so I now have pretty coral/orange shiny toenails that make me happy!!!! I started yesterday morning making breakfast for DH and myself and this is how the eggs broke in the bowl!!!! I simply couldn't resist so I took a picture...cute???

Now on to other stitchy things......I have a picture of my other HAED that I talked about last post it's Fairy Tea Party.... I adore this pattern! I actually sent this out as a Christmas card one year so was thrilled to find it as a HAED pattern! Next is my gift from my stitching friends for hosting the 1st Annual Stitchin' complete with fairy charm...the gift was very much appreciated !!!! And the silver charm And lastly I have a Fairy Moon update.... The fabric is by HLC and is 32ct Starry Night!!!! I am still loving stitching on this. Since I worked on monday I didn't get a chance to start The Tower of Stoney Wood by HAED but either tonight or tomorrow I plan on it. I pick up some new Q-snaps so I'm all set!!!!! Rebecca is a new blogger and she commented on my last post. She is doing some wonderful stitching and so if you like wander over to her blog and say hi!!!!! I'm off to a cup of tea and stitching since DH is at work so I get the night to myself!!!!

I am grateful for quiet nights of stitching..........

Updates.....

I don't know where the week has gone..... I have been feeling better but the migraine has been lurking all week but I've managed to keep it from coming back! I'm really not sure if it was the migraine or my chronic paroxysmal headache (CPH) so I've been alternating meds. And it seems to be working. Let me say thanks to all who commented for the good wishes to feel better. I so appreciate it! I do believe stitchers are a special group of caring individuals!!! Thank so very much!!!! I have gotten quite a bit of stitching done. I just haven't been up to posting or being on the computer.

My first update is about my 1st Annual Stitchin! It was wonderful with lots of food fun and friendship!!!! The weather was wonderful so until the afternoon we were outside under the deck for eating great food and of course stitching. Here is a group shot... And yes there is a man there as well..he is a new stitcher that I work with and fit right in with the group. We had so much fun. The stitching group is so very special to me. A few people weren't able to be there and were missed very much. So Margaret and Mae and Cheryl there is next year to look forward too!!! And Deb we all look forward to your joining us next year!!! At the end of the afternoon they gave me a present for hosting the party. A new chart that is so me!!!!! Picture to come next post!! Thank you ladies!!!!!

I have an update on Fairy Moon as well. I am so loving stitching this chart it is just flowing...... and Isn't she just so pretty!!!!! I have to look up the name of the fabric...next post I promise! I love stitching her.

I have a picture of my dear furbaby Storm... She behaved so well with all of my friends and everyone loved her......

I spent the afternoon pulling threads for A Tower at Stoney Wood by HAED..... I will start this on Monday!!! I have one other HAED going as well Fairy Tea Party......not a whole lot done but I really should get it into my loose rotation..... She is the little bluish blob in my sidebar under WIP's.....

I am grateful for my stitching friends......

If only.....

If only this migraine would leave....I've taken everything I can and finally it's down to a dull ache in my temple. I really shouldn't complain since it's only my second one since the surgery but I spent yesterday napping on the couch. Today I had a late start but I did get to Pilates and B&N so it wasn't a lost day. I got 3 books...The Tudors ( I have yet to see the series), The Last Boleyn by Karen Harper and The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett. I need more time to stitch and read!!!! Then to the lab for some routine bloodwork for 2 different doctors and luckily she was able to draw the blood for both which is due for next weeks visits. On the way back I saw a billboard for a U2 cover band ...Joshua Tree.... at a local casino! I am psyched and plan on going on saturday night!!!! Speaking of saturday it's my 1st ever stitching weekend...it's a potluck and I'm so looking forward to it!!!! The ladies from wednesdays stitching group at SP are coming as well as 1 or 2 friends from work!!!! Good food, stitching and hanging by the pool!!!! Then on sunday some friends from work are coming over to enjoy the pool and just hang out!!!! It'll be fun!!!

I was bad or bored...not sure which but while waiting for Tower of Stoney Wood to arrive I couldn't help myself....really I couldn't. I started Fairy Moon!!!!!! The material is by Heavenly Creations...I'll post the name next time. Here is my Fairy Moon start.....

I am grateful for my stitching friends and new starts.....

Poolside......

I woke up today and thought it was a wonderful day and just how did I want to spend it? So I cancelled Pilates for the afternoon...I really struggled yesterday at Pilates I did the workout but decided to listen to my body so I'll make it up next week!!! I finished Pride and Prejudice last night by the pool....I have to say that I love the world of Jane Austen. I put the lounge chair in the pool and positioned the umbrella and there I spent the day.... I was just at the beginning of Harry Potter #3 and can now say I am done. It was my second read of it and I love it! HP #3 was truly a favorite of mine! I'm off to find book 4 and lose myself in his world again.

I did have a new start yesterday during my weekly stitching group at SP. I found the perfect fabric for the handdyed floss that I posted last time. It is Dill 28ct by PTPlus . I started LHN Schoolgirl Lessons...Here is the start...I will have enough thread and fabric for both LHN's! Right now I'm off to pull threads for Fairy Moon by Mirabilia. I know I have so many large starts but she has been calling my name and the fabric I found is perfect...so stay tuned.....

I'm off to stitch and continue the relaxation of the day since DH is at work!!!

I am grateful for lazy days and books............

A new start..a finish and more...lots of pictures....

There are lots of pictures in this post. Let me start by saying that I started and finished a piece this week!!!!! Actually I started it on the 29th of April and finished on the 4th of May. I meant to post the start separately but here they both are and the finish . It is supposed to be finished as a pinkeep and came with all of the supplies to do it. Oh and it's name is Pink Dress from Mary Kathryn at ehandcrafts. It was a joy to work on!!!

I never did post my framed Shepard's Bush so here is Fear Not .

We did really well in our bowling league this year coming in 4th!!!! I took my winnings and got some really cool things. First up is a necklace that I had on layaway since a little while after my surgery sort of my gift to myself for having the surgery and coming out strong......the picture isn't that great. I love it!!!! and next is a pair scissors that I've had my eye on for a few months.......Sajou scissors!!!! They are shaped like the Eiffel Tower and are so incredibly sharp!!!! drumroll please....... aren't they lovely!

Yes I have still more to post..... I posted that I won a contest on the Mirabilia Stitchers board and I received my prize from Sparklies last week hand dyed fabric and threads.... and . I have to say that Kate from Sparklies was wonderful and so very nice. I have plans for the thread! My first ever Little House Needleworks designs..... and They are monochromatic designs and I'm deciding on the fabric tomorrow I have it narrowed down to 2 or 3 pieces including my Silkweaver FOTM from this month. So much to do. And with any luck my HAED will be in tomorrow at my LNS ....so a new start is in my future and oh wait I have fabric for Fairy Moon as well!!! I'm rambling so I'll end here and getting myself a cup of tea and stitch for a while!

I am grateful for choice in my life..........

Here it is......

I had so much fun with family last week!!!!! Even though I had to work some of the days. We relaxed by the pool and went out at night and they were able to do their own thing as well. It was so very sad to say good bye to them but I know they will be back!!!! I had a great shopping day with my SIL a real girls day!!!!! We did a lot...she got to visit a scrapbooking store as well as the framing shop and my LNS and of course the Premium Outlet Shops....where she became the proud owner of a new Coach bag!!!! She also met my friends at SP since we went at stitching group time!!!! Now on too the main reason for this post. Yes I was able to pick up Miraculous Birth Sampler by Stoney Creek!!!!! I was amazed at how beautiful it was and I stitched it!!!! Here goes... and another view . Thanks for looking! I really am proud of this piece!!!! My SIL will give it to her cousin Lynn the tuesday before Mother's day and she promises details on her reaction!!!!!! I am happy to have been able to complete it for the visit and they were able to bring it home with them!!!

Now I may be crazy but I fell in love with this HAED pattern!!!! It will take longer than forever to stitch but I ordered it !!!!!! It has so many elements in it that I just love and she is sitting and stitching then there's the castle and the swords and let's not forget the dragon's head and the seashells.............A definite must have for me!!!!!! I know I've gone over the edge.......but happily!


I am grateful for stitching and quiet time.....

Where should I be??

Hi everyone!!! I hope your day is as peaceful as mine. I have company from NY...my DH's brother, wife and nephew. We are having so very much fun. I've said this before but I'll say it again she truly is more like a sister to me!!!! Their visit came at a perfect time since I was feeling so homesick!!!! They wanted to do all the touristy things and so they went to Hoover Dam today and I am staying home. I really thought about going but felt I needed to rest since we are going out to dinner tonight at my all time favorite restaurant...Olives at The Bellagio and last night it was dinner at Nora's and sightseeing and a bit of shopping at Caesars!!!! It is fun being a tourist with them. DH was a bit upset I stayed home but my SIL understood since I still tire easily and wasn't able to get the whole week off from work for their visit. So I am working thursday and friday this week. Tomorrow my SIL and I are going shopping by ourselves and I am so looking forward to it!!!! In addition we are picking up Miraculous Birth Sampler from the framers during the day. This way she will be able to take it home with her and give it her cousin for Mother's day!!!! I didn't even realize it but it worked out perfect!!!!!! I will take a picture of the final framed piece and post it next week!!! I'm off to stitch and finish the pecan pie I'm baking!!!

But first here's a picture of my Red Thread which is up to date for April......

Oh and I keep forgetting to post that I won a contest over at the Mirabilia Stitchers board last month or so. I won hand dyed fabric and 5 skeins from Sparklies . I'll be sure to post them when they arrive since she is putting them in the mail tomorrow!!!!!!

I am grateful for family.....

Done done done!!!

Well here I am posting again..... I put my mind to finishing Miraculous Birth sampler by Stoney Creek and even after goofing off on saturday I was able to finish the little backstitching and the beading in one day!!!! I have to say I am so proud of this piece and all it means and will mean for the mother. I did it as a memorial for my SIL's cousin who is a sweetheart and no one should suffer the lose of a child the way she did!!!!! This is for you Lynn! And now I can take it with my SIL to my framers and we can pick out a frame together especially since she knows her decor and tastes. I took several pictures and then took some more...to make it stand out I needed to put it on a white pillowcase otherwise the picture was just washed out. So without any further delays here they are.... and and and and finally . I really had a lot of fun with this piece especially learning two new stitches the Eyelet Variation and the Braided Heart and of course relearning the Satin Stitch. Also working with Glissengloss Japanese silks and other threads was fun!!!! I can now say I'm still not sure why it took so long to finish but my SIL's visit next week was the the push I needed to finish!!!!

I am also contemplating another new start... I know I have too many as is but I having been dreaming of Fairy Moon but Mirabilia . Maybe after my SIL's visit ...if I can hold out that long. The obsessing has begun.....

I am grateful for finishes and friends...

Does any one remember .............

Once again I've been lax in posting. But this post has been running around in my head for days!!!! I started this one last year as a gift for my SIL's cousin. It's Miracle Birth Sampler by Stoney Creek. I had a hard time getting this picture but once finished I will get a better picture. And it almost done ...my goal is by next weekend since my SIL and family are visiting and then we can take it to the frame shop together and pick a perfect frame for it. I'm not sure what was holding me up on it but I started thinking or rather obsessing about it 2 weeks ago. I picked it up and feel like I haven't put it down. I mastered the Eyelet Variation stitch as well as the Braided Heart stitch. Once I started stitching them I just followed the diagram and it went smoothly!! Not as hard as I thought....It's done with japanese silks and beads!!! I am down to just a little backstitching and the beads. I see it being finished this weekend actually since I'm off all weekend! I felt I had to stitch this for her from my heart! It's a long story but basically she had twins on my birthday 2 years ago after a difficult pregnancy and all was going well when suddenly the boy passed away. It was a total shock and I managed to find this perfect piece!!!! I think she will love it!!!! I wish I could see her face but my SIL will be giving it to her when the time is right!

I really need to be stitching and getting the house ready for my SIL and family visit next sunday but I have a week and I am good under pressure. We will be opening the pool as well for their visit. I can't wait to get in and swim and let's not forget the hottub! Oh well I'm off to stitch but first I must go to Jo-Ann's and get the new gingher's Emma!!!!! I can honestly say my scissor collection is growing......will post a picture soon!!! Have a great weekend everyone!!!!

And to answer Vonna's question from my last post I am getting a nice monthly discount on my Pilates classes!!! Let me just say I love Pilates. It has made me quite flexible and I can now touch my toes and even put my hands palm down on the floor without bending my knees!!!! Something I've never been able too do!!!!! So happy!!!!

I am grateful for days off and long weekends!!!!!

Just one more.....post

I truly can't believe it's the end of March already! I am finally rested and feel restored. I took yesterday and just vegged...I've been doing that a lot lately but I think it's my body just telling me to slow down and rest!!!! I am listening!!!

I was hoping to get caught up with The Red Thread through March and I succeeded!!! Here is my recent progress picture..... I am really enjoying this and working the border at the same time is a plus. So I won't have the whole border to finish at the end!

I know I've said I love Pilates before but I really do!!! I had a great workout today. I changed it up and did abs on the box today which shocked my instructor since it's my least favorite way to do abs. But I decided I was going to master them on a box and I thoroughly enjoyed it. And to show just how much I love Pilates .....this is now on my rear window I will soon try "Star" again. I haven't done it since the surgery. My balance is a bit shaky so I'm working up to it...maybe next week!!!

In my organization a few months ago I was missing a pattern...Circe by PRdesigns and the thread pack. I panicked for a minute or two and then realized it was in the downstairs basket. And it was...crisis averted. I wasn't planning to start it any time soon but I must know where each and every piece of stash is!!!!!!

I am grateful for my husband's love.......

Me again

Well it's the end of my days off but thankfully I only have to work tomorrow and then I'm off again!!!! I managed to stitch and relax plus get some errands done. I am back at Pilates twice a week and loving it!!! I did a hard workout today "the chair" and am sore but feel rejuvenated!!!

I started another new one . I just couldn't help myself. Here is my start on Blonde Cameo by Passione Ricamo from The Gift of Stitching magazine . Here she is.... I have to finish her eye and I'm not sure about her lip ...maybe once she's backstitched completely it'll look better. What do you think??? Also I find myself making more mistakes lately I think it may be after working all day and then stitching late. Thankfully they have been small and I caught them and was able to either fix or adjust........I'll post the fabric later since I can't remember right now and she is downstairs at the moment.

And Storm did fine the other day. We picked her up and she was tired but good. Here's a picture from today at the top of the stairs... And she has clean teeth!!!!!! She is my love!!!!

I'm grateful for Pilates workouts......

It's tuesday and I'm off

Let me first wish everyone a belated Happy Easter!!!! I was working and it was exceptionally busy. I felt I hadn't had a day off and was totally exhausted so much so that I took yesterday and just vegged ....I slept till 2 pm. I have to remember that I am still healing and need to still take care of me. DH was wonderful he brought home chinese takeout and we had a quiet evening on Easter. He brought me tulips a few days before and aren't they beautiful Please excuse the mess around them...... And I now have 3 days off and I've already been to Pilates!!! I look forward to my time there and feel stronger each time. I woke up early and took Storm to the vet's for a dental cleaning and am a bit anxious since she is my baby girl!!!! I know she'll be fine but we have never even boarded her so it was a little tough this am. When we travel we have someone come to the house and care for her. I'll be picking her up later today and plan to spoil her even more tonight!!!!! Here is my baby girl.... She was a rescue and so calm and completely loving. I am blessed to have found her!!!!

I did manage to pick up needle and thread by early evening and finished Halloween Fairy last night. I only had the backstitching and beading left. I did complete it time to enter into the Mirabilia Stitcher's contest which closes on April 1st!!!! Here she is

Halloween Fairy by Nora Corbett

32ct PTPlus Crystal Midas

I truly love her and she was fun to stitch up!!!!! So far she is my fourth finish for 2008. Thanks for visiting and have a great day!!!!

I am grateful for days off and my baby girl Storm......

Some finishes

Well I'm back with some finishes this week!!! And I thought I'd post them since I'm so thrilled!!!! The first finish is a small Shepards Bush that took a little over a week to do and in all honesty if I'd worked on it consistently it would have been finished sooner..... And it's official I'm addicted to Shepards Bush!!!! Although I'm not sure why it's taken me so long to discover the sheer joy of working on one. But better late than never....... Next is my Mdsigns Letter "C"......which even though I marked the chart as I went I still had an error that needed adjustment since I wasn't frogging the whole thing and I do believe it's okay and only I'll know where the mistakes lay.... .

To answer a few questions from my comments... Yes I will be doing all 8 Couture Pixies by Nora Corbett. I've done 2 so far for my nieces and will redo them for myself......my favorite is still Daisy though. The next answer is I just started getting Silkweaver's as a FOTM but last year I was getting PTPlus FOTM!!! So I have a good stash going and am finally using it for my projects. I love them both!!!!! They are both so beautiful and wonderful to work on!!!

I also updated my sidebar with new pictures if you'd like to look.....

I am grateful for my finishes this week.....

Oh My Word......

I need to say that I am thoroughly exhausted but really wanted to post so here I am!!! Work was tough this weekend all 3 days we were short by 1 nurse and it was aggravating...but today was better and in the long run I'm glad I went in and didn't call out as previously planned. I really need to save my time since we are having company in April and to say I'm thrilled is an understatement!!!! It's DH's brother and wife and nephew!!! My SIL is more like a sister to me!!!!! And they have never been here in the 5 years we have lived here so it will be fun!!!!!

I have stitched but no pics to show....I promise some soon. I finished my first SB Fear Not! It was a small one and in attempt to get the horn perfect I broke it...But with the magic of a bit of glue you can hardly tell so it's off to the framer's tomorrow!!!! I forgot to mention that I introduced a friend and relatively new stitcher to the wednesday group and it was fun!!!!! The ladies are so very friendly and welcoming! We must keep our art alive and prospering!!!!!

I have seen this pattern on many blogs and I fell in love with it ..... I do believe in Hope and the necessity of hope in our everyday life!!! I found it after emailing Mary Kathryn and she promptly replied and now it's ordered and I'm so happy! I truly love the simplicity of the design and the message of hope and it comes with the threads and pins......my first pinkeep finish????? If you love it as well here's the link . And as an added bonus 10% of the proceeds go to breast cancer charities......

And I ask you how did these lovely designs get by me and the reason for the post title.... and !!!!! They are so beautiful and a bit more sophisticated from the other Couture Pixies. And oh wait I truly thought there were supposed to be only six and now there are eight!!! Not that I'm counting or disappointed on the contrary I'm thrilled!!!! Of course they are on order at SP for me I called today!!!!! Just couldn't wait till tomorrow!!!!

I'm grateful for wonderful cross stitch designs to stitch and the creative designers........and my wednesday stitching group....

Pictures and ramblings.....

Is it March already? I thought I'd post the first signs of spring from my front yard!!! It was taken at twilight that magical time when so much is possible..... And I am back at work and have to say that it is really cutting into my stitching time!!! I am still stitching most days but on the days I work my energy level is zero by the end of the day! Not surprising at all but it's those days that I really have to think about stitching. I also started back at Pilates and am taking it slow with lower springs and the instructor is being great and sensitve to my needs!!!! It feels great just to have a routine again. The 6 weeks off was grand but had no structure so I am enjoying the returning routine!!!! I also joined Netflix finally and got my first movie "Across The Universe" I thoroughly enjoyed it even though it was a bit bizarre unfortunately DH didn't like it at all. The music from it is sensational I already have it on my Ipod!!!!! Now on to some more pictures of stitching......

First up is Cirque des Cercles as you can see I have 2 pages completed and it's on to page 3. I am thrilled with the colors and my progress. Next is SB's Winter Moon I almost have the moon all filled in and then on to the specialty stitches. If you recall this was my January 1st start. I am looking forward to the rest with a bit of nervousness but have complete confidence that I can do it!!!! Next is Mdesigns Letter C It is almost done as well. But it seems even with marking the chart as I went I have an error so did I panic or frog....no I adjusted. I paid extra close attention but mistakes happen and only God makes perfect things. And I'm sure DH won't know the difference..... Next is The Red Thread by Bent Creek I'm not quite where I should be but I am progressing and actually the snowman is complete since this picture was taken. So by the end of March I will be up to date..... And yes I have one more picture Santa Claus is Coming to Town by Birds of a Feather This was my February 29th start. Even though it's out of season I truly love this one. I adore Christmas and Santas and keep them up year round. And one last picture of Mirabilia's Halloween Fairy which I'm not sure I have posted so here she is ......and she does have legs now....I did pick up Mirabilia's Christmas Elf Fairy from the framer's but have yet to take her picture. I need to save something for the next post. If you've read this far thanks for visiting!!!!

I am grateful for life returning to normal ..................

No pictures ..........

Unfortunately I have no pictures but have been stitching quite a lot!!!! I am adoring Cirque once again. I have lots of ideas roaming around in my head as to stuff to do and finding the energy for it all.... The good news is I am starting back at Pilates next wednesday!!! I have been considering not starting till April but I realized the fear is all in my mind.....I stopped by the studio today and the instructor was like just try a few and it was great no pulling on my incision !!! Yah!!! So I'm going to start slowly and then see how I feel!!!! I really think the Pilates will help with my energy levels. I'm also working the next 4 out of 5 days... i didn't schedule myself that way so we'll see! But I am going to take it as easy as I can. Tuesday back at work was good and everyone was so kind and helpful! I do love the people I work with!!!! I missed my naps!!!!!
On another note I read on one of my yahoo groups I think it was Metrostitchers that since leap year only happens once every 4 years it qualifies as a new start day!!!!!!! And leap year is tomorrow..... So I have mine all picked out and ready to go....Are you in????

I am grateful for feeling stronger everday.....