Barb's Stitches

2011-12-31T16:25:00.001-08:00

Well, it's the end of another year. Not the best but not the worst one yet.

I've spent most of the day catching up on several blogs and generally getting lost in blogland. Man, there are so many talented people out here!!!

Tonight we'll go to the Legion Hall for a prime rib dinner. There'll be music & dancing but us old fogies won't be able to stay awake 'til midnight. Since it been snowing again we plan to be home waaaay early.

Best wishes for the new year to you all!

2011-12-25T08:07:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas everyone! Wishing each of you the blessings of this holy season.I am home from the South. An awesome time and a beautiful wedding. Right now we are in Creswell, Oregon spending Christmas with the kids & grandsons. What chaos!Well, gotta run. The fun continues!

I'm Back!!

2011-10-19T10:01:00.000-07:00

Hello world! My it's been a long, long time since I've posted here. This is a no guilt zone so I won't go there. Anyways, I've been busy sewing & stitching. I'm so proud that I just had to share these pieces. Four Quilts Of Valor. One for my granddaughter's fiance and one each for the three veterans that will be his groomsmen.

We leave this week-end for Alabama and the wedding which will be on the beach at Gulf Shores. So exciting! DH will stay a week. I'm staying on for about another month, my usual. This time things will be different as GD will be a married lady. A lot less 'girl time' I'm thinking.

Without further ado, here are the quilts (which have already been shipped).

Spring Has Sprung!!!

2011-04-06T21:22:00.000-07:00

"Spring Has Sprung" by Cheryl Haynes of Prairie Grove Peddler

"Cat Lessons For People" by Lizzie Kate to go with my "Dog Lessons For People" (now to get them framed alike)

A Road Trip Gone Haywire!!!

2011-04-06T20:29:00.000-07:00

Alas, it has been quite some time since I last reported in. I just haven't been able to find the words.

My previously mentioned road trip was quite a hit aka I nearly totalled Blondie. To keep it short, I picked up a rental (the rollerskate) and headed back on the road twelve hours later. Got to court just a half hour before they convened. Had to call my BFF, Pam, in Vancouver, B.C. & cancel. I just couldn't tempt the fates in the lousy weather in a rental car with no chains or traction tires. Sooooo, I stayed on with Dot and learned to make Chicken Enchiladas and Need-ums. She made me a lovely apron which I will treasure. We gabbed and sewed. I finished the binding on my latest Quilt Of Valor (sorry, I forgot to take a pic!).

When I left Dot's I headed up to Nikki's. Nik has been inviting me and I decided if she could take in a wandering soul on short notice I'd park 'er there for a bit of stitching fun. Nik's been suffering with back problems and hasn't been out much lately so I was welcomed warmly. Besides, she'd gotten this new addition to her family that I've been dying to spoil. Sashi aka Sausages (my nickname) is a 5 month-old Lhasa. What a doll! If she ever turns up missing Nik, don't look at my house!!! By this time I had finished one cross stitch & was working on another. I was lucky to attend Nik's local stitching group & meet some more wonderful stitchers.

My last stop was at Julie's to celebrate her birthday. This was my first visit to her home also. We get along so well and had loads of fun. Me dragging her to a stitching shop and her showing me her favorite antique stores. After church and what was a very short visit I headed home.

Now, since I had had to skip lunch with Vicki in Portland on my way to Washington I made a stopover on my return. She convinced me to stay overnight rather than cross the pass at night (it didn't take much convincing). There had been problems with two of the pieces I had left at the framers on my last trip to Portland. I needed to pick them up. They've now been fixed and mailed back. I should be able to pick up the framed pieces later this month at our next GTG.

I arrived home and immediately got sick. I mean FLU sick! That's hung on for about a month. Enough already!!

I'm happy to report that Blondie was not as badly injured as first thought. She's now warmly tucked back in her garage. Man did I miss her heated seats!

Oh, What A Wonderful Week-end! And A Roadtrip!

2011-02-18T19:57:00.000-08:00

We laughed, we ate, we shopped, we stitched and laughed some more! That's what these GTGs are all about. Man, I had missed these gals! I worked on both of my on-going projects. I was amazingly restrained in the LNS. Mostly that was due to stopping by Craft Warehouse on our way into town. CW was having a 40% off framing sale. I left two pieces to be framed. Then when we arrived at Vicki's she offered to take another of my pieces in for a special 60% off framing sale on Monday. Whew! That hurt the bank! Wednesday I had to take "Blondie", my jeep, in for some work. I was expecting a very expensive tab, especially when they asked to keep her overnight. What a surprise when I found out the warrenty covered everything but the normal maintenance and the wipers, minus the $100 deductible. That totally made me feel better about all the framing expenses. Need Blondie to be in tip-top shape. I leave Thursday for the Washington peninsula. I will appear in court Friday on my former neighbor's behalf. After spending a few days with her I will be heading up to Vancouver, BC to visit my BFF, Pam. On my return trip I'm planning to spend a few days with another girlfriend in Seattle. I'm just giddy with all the fun of getting to see these gals. Soooo... don't expect an update here for a bit. ROADTRIP!!!

Oh Dear!

2011-02-11T14:30:00.000-08:00

I should be excited! I should be packing & sorting my stitching. But no, I've just finished reading emails and blogs. I'm heading back to bed for a nap. At oh-dark-thirty tomorrow I leave for my stitching GTG in Portland. I've missed several so I haven't seen the gals since September. Where, oh where is my mojo?

No photos to share but I am working diligently every evening on two projects.

Time For God!

2011-02-05T16:42:00.000-08:00

with artifical lighting: this shows the fabric color better

with natural lighting: I like this because it shows the floss colors better.

Looks like I should've stood on a barstool instead of a chair and waited 'til morning for better light!! Photography is not my strong suit and I don't have a great camera.

This Lizzie Kate piece was stitched last year. I've been trying to sort out my sewing/stitching room and realized I had forgotten to photograph it. Think I'll take it with me to Portland next week-end to be framed.

Next week-end is our stitchig group's GTG. It rarely happens that Craft Warehouse is having a framing sale the same time we're having our GTG. I'll probably break the bank!

Finished Stitching!

2011-02-04T09:39:00.000-08:00

Yea, finish number two!! I finished "Dog Lessons For People" by Lizzie Kate last week. Didn't get a chance to post it then as we had to take a short trip over to Portland. This was a fun stitch and while I was waiting for a re-supply of floss I started "Cat Lessons". Am about half done with that but find myself yearning to get on with other things. Oh man, not another UFO!

First 2011 Finish

2011-01-23T13:35:00.000-08:00

Finally I have a finish to show!
I had started LK's Dog Lessons and had to order more floss (it has finally arrived). Then I started LK's Cat Lessons and found I was out of one of those flosses (more ordering). So... I started Waxing Moon Designs' Autumn Nap. Whew! I had all the flosses needed for this and have finished it today.

Too dark right now to get a great photo so this scan will have to do.

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T14:18:00.001-08:00

MAY YOUR TROUBLES BE LESS,
YOUR BLESSINGS BE MORE
AND NOTHING BUT HAPPINESS
COME THROUGH YOUR DOOR

I'm wishing all the best to my stitching & quilting friends for 2011.

We don't do anything special for New Years as a rule and this year especially since we have so much snow. I'm doing a lot of cleaning/laundry - a typical Saturday.

Christmas was a rather simple affair considering all the hassle and prep. The ride over the mountain pass was clear and easy. Two of my three types of cookies were a hit.

Pat (ds#2) had the grandboys for Christmas Eve. We opened gifts early as their mother wanted them by 7PM. Then we all went out for Mongolian Grill which has become a sort of Christmas Eve tradition. Dh & I got to visit with some dear friends.

Christmas morning Pat fixed a great breakfast. DS#3 & DDIL were there. Then all the Christmas dinner prep began. The guys were deep frying the turkey. I kept out of the way, my job was vegetables. DH fetched his 97yo mom to join us. We decided to head home that evening as "there's no place like home" (and our own bed). Good thing too as it started snowing and didn't quit for 4 days. We now have snow up to my waist!!

In my last post I mentioned "a day of rest". Well, it didn't go exactly as I planned - not all rest. But I did get some stitching done. I started Lizzie Kate's Dog Lessons For People. What a fun stitch! Here it is so far...

If you'll ecuse my poor photography, here are also some ornaments I stitched while I was in Alabama. They are from The Gift Of Stitching Magazine. The First Day of Christmas by Nancy Pederson of Tudor Thyme
and Christmas Star Tag by Annemiek Koning of The Needle's Content. I stitched this in two colorways.
I also have another of the Little House Needleworks ornaments; Joy To The World
Have you noticed a trend to my stitching? So far I have thirty-seven ornaments stitched and not one finished. I'm hoping to be bitten by the finishing fairy this year. That's about it for my New Year's Resolutions. OK, maybe finish a UFO/BAP or two. How about you?

I May Be On To Something! Oh yes, Happy Christmas too!

2010-12-22T22:19:00.000-08:00

Sorry all for that bit of venting yesterday. The holidays are definitely not a great time of year for me. And, I think I've figured out part of my problem. I haven't made a stitch since the first of December. Matter of fact, I can still barely get into my sewing room so no quilting either. This must change!

This evening DH & I discovered that we were a day ahead of ourselves! Yikes! I was thinking we needed to head over the pass tomorrow morning. (ala "over the river and through the woods...") Soooo... now I get a day of rest. I'm going to get my nails done, maybe a facial and definitely some stitching will be done. Of course, we didn't discover this until after we had exchanged gifts. He was so good to me this year. I got a home docking station for my XM radio (did I say that right?) and a complete set of Moda 3 Sisters Park Avenue fat quarters. Woo Hoo!

I don't have Christmas decorations to show off like the most of you so I will share a few photos from my front porch. This was before our latest blizzard struck.

Moses always comes in with a belly full of snowballs (and wants to cuddle).

Papa and the girls out plowing the drive.

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM BARB, JIM, KELLY, JESSIE AND MOSES May all your wishes come true!

Oh Whoa! Woe!

2010-12-21T18:06:00.000-08:00

Dang it all again! I've been home since December 4th & if I may say so, I wrote a pretty great update here. All for naught! Gone! Poof! Somewhere in cyberspace. Obviously, this blog hasn't been my main concern lately as this is the first I noticed. The short of it is...
I had the greatest month visiting my granddaughter in Daphne, Alabama. Wish I could've stayed longer. Much longer!

Today, for a plugged nickel, I'd leave the master of this house and move there. Some men just don't get it! If he's not going to participate in Christmas then neither am I. I have been on my feet all day baking for HIS son's Christmas celebration. AND he left all the shopping to me. My bad! He ordered 3 books off Amazon, but I'm supposed to wrap them! I've had it! Seems every Christmas I swear I'm going to run away the next year. This time I'm booking reservations!

Last Thursday I had minor back surgery again. I'm supposed to be taking it easy!

Ok, I'm outta here! No need to spread any more of my joyous self around.

With any luck and an attitude adjustment I'll be back to wish you all a Merry Christmas. If not, well... do the best you can during these stressful times.

Remember Our Veterans

2010-11-11T16:20:00.000-08:00

I hope you've all done something, even prayed, for our veterens today. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to attend any parades, etc. today but my thoughts were with our service people past and present. My dear husband and our sweet friend, Tom. Both military retirees. My dad, my mom, six uncles, father-in-law, brother, all veterans of foreign wars. Our granddaughter's boyfriend is currently serving in Afghanistan and before that he has served 3 tours in Iraq. When will it stop? I support our military 200%. Not so sure about our countries objectives and policies!!

For Those Enquiring Minds...

2010-11-01T14:40:00.000-07:00

... that want to know...
I am leaving tomorrow to spend a month in Alabama with my granddaughter. I miss her so. And I'm always thrilled to see her folks and Granny & Poppa. It's so wonderful there and the people are so sweet. It's become our tradition to spend Thanksgiving together. I missed last year & it just wasn't right for either of us. I'll definitely come home with my 'Southern drawl'. DH teases me about that!

I'm so excited! I think the hardest part about packing is what stitching stuff to take. I'd be happy with a suitcase full of SS and jammies. Grandgirl would get a kick outta that. Her mom, not so much!

So, I'm off now to pack. I'll check in when I can. Hugs

It's Back and A Finish

2010-10-26T12:55:00.000-07:00

Well... yesterday the sun came out & melted all the snow away. This morning I awoke to this view from sewing room window...
I've finally finished both Florin and Guilder by Tracy Horner of Ink Circles. Stitched on 32ct Hand Dyed Silkweaver fabric of unnamed color. I changed the colors to better match this fabric which is a lavender/blue/purple. The threads are all GAST, Apricot Blush, Avacado, Black Raspberry Jam, Forest Glade, and Purple Iris. I have two skeins of Purple Iris. One is very dark and the other is very light. I used some of each on these.
Now I'm off to finish some housework. Ugh! Pay some bills. UGH!! Read my friends blogs. Yeah! And choose a new project to stitch. YEAH!!

SNOW....Already!!!

2010-10-25T09:16:00.000-07:00

We had a great week-end! The grandsons came for a visit which always turns this place into a zoo. Best of all... it started snowing. They were thrilled. However, they weren't prepared with appropriate clothing. Freezing fingers... ouch!

Awoke this morning to a winter wonderland. It's still snowing and we have 4-5 inches. I'm sure the sun will come out soon & all will melt. The first snow of the season seldom lasts. Wonder if this is an indication of a hard winter??

DH must live under a lucky star! He's a procrastinator. So are his sons. Genetic, I think! Anyways, he kept putting off winterizing the motorhome. Lord knows we can't afford to go South this year. Then he ends up in the hospital & having surgery. Now he can't do the winterizing himself & Tom has injured his back recently so he's no help. I can't do it as I recently had back surgery. What a fix!! Enter son #2, Patrick! He & the boys arrive and DH instantly puts Pat to work winterizing both ours and Tom's rigs. Whew! Just in time for the first snow! MEN!

On the stitching front... very little got done this week-end. Last night I continued stitching on Ink Circles Florin. This pair, Guilder and Florin are going to be lovely. But I'm itching to start something new. I need to start organizing what I'll be taking with me when I go visit my granddaughter.

Oh, didn't I tell you? I'm leaving November 3rd at O'dark-thirty. Flying to Alabama to spend a month with my grandgirl. Heaven! I can hardly wait!

So, I'm off now to put this place back in order & do mountains of laundry. Sigh!

It's True What They Say...

2010-10-19T15:50:00.000-07:00

The longer you put something off, the harder it is to do. Well, I found that out here! I've been trying to write on this blog for nearly two weeks and it's not getting easier. So I'll take the plunge. It's my blog after all. There are no rules or police. I'll try to recap the past month, it's been a busy one.

In September I went to the WA/OR Stitcher's GTG in Portland. I try to get to these as often as I can. The ladies are so wonderful & we have so much fun. Vicki even gave me a personal ornament finishing lesson (which I shamefully haven't tried yet).

I also attended the annual Elder Women's Retreat for the Coos Tribe (DH is Native American). These gatherings are so much fun and it's great to meet with and learn from such amazing ladies. DH's cousins always make me feel right at home.

On October 1st I met my dear friend Julie in Newport, Oregon. Julie & I used to work together in our previous lives. She's one of the few people I still keep in touch with. We had a condo for a week. Lots of relaxing, exploring and gabbing. Beautiful sunsets!! The weather cooperated and everything was amazing. Here are a few pics...

While I was away, our buddy, Tom (who lives in his 5th wheel in our driveway, temporarily) injured his back. Then he got awfully sick. We moved him into the spare bedroom to keep a closer eye on him. Then on Tuesday DH had to go into the hospital. Man! I'm sick of sick men!!! They're awful babies. I'm sick of driving these guys to & fro! I'm sick of doctor's offices and hospitals!

But wait! There is light at the end of my tunnel!!! I'm leaving all this testosterone behind!! On November 3rd I leave for a month in Alabama with my granddaughter. Whew!

In all these festivities I did manage to get some stitching done. First, I finished Lizzie Kate's "Time For God". Which I've managed to misplace. So I'll show you when it's found and photographed.
Next, I finished Lizzie Kate's "Prayer Connection" again. I loved the way this turned out on the one I sent off to Afghanistan, so I stitched another for myself on a larger count fabric. Mine will be made into a pillow, I think.
And then, I started "Guilder" by Ink Circles. It's the companion piece to "Florin" which is Tracy's SYHO piece. I chose my own colors by Gentle Arts. My fabric for both is a 32ct Belfast Hand Dyed Linen by Silkweaver. No color is specified on the package but it's a lovely mottled purple/lavender/blue. It's not quite finished in this photo but it is finished now & I've begun stitching "Florin". (pleae excuse my wrinkles)

Check This Out (Whoa! Please don't! I want her all for myself)

2010-10-15T13:12:00.000-07:00

My friend Ginger has posted another contest over at her blog, BearBits. Now, a warning! Please don't go there! You'll fall in love for sure. It will end badly for you when I win.

A Finish, A Birthday and A Winner... and a bit of sad news

2010-09-14T08:34:00.001-07:00

Well, I've finished stitching another of the LHN ornaments. This one is "Under The Tree". In 'real life' it's really much brighter. Moses & I were competing for the sunshine spot in my sewing room this morning.
My birthday was a fairly subdued day (which I like). Stitched a little, played POGO games, painted the front porch. DH finally realized what day it was & took me to dinner at the Legion (taco night, my fav). I spent the evening with my hospice client watching an old movie. No fuss, no muss! A few birthday cards from special friends but no pressies (we're still paying for our "gift" to ourselves, a big screen TV).

I will be celebrating this week-end when I go to Portland for my stitching group. Man, I miss those girls! I missed July's GTG. There will be stash enhancement!!!

I know some of you have been waiting for this so I won't linger... the winner of my blogoversary/birthday giveaway is Bluladie ... Cathryn, please send me your snail-mail address so I can send your prize. And, for those who are curious, this is what Cathryn won. A Debbie Draper Designs "Pumpkin Band Sampler", 32ct Zweigart Belfast Linen in Light Terra Cotta and the six Gentle Arts Sampler Threads to stitch this piece. Happy Fall to y'all!!

Our dear Matty has gone to Doggie Heaven. I could see the signs last month. But it was such an awful month I couldn't bear the thought of losing him. Matty began to have seizures. I was up all night Friday calming and crooning to him. Saturday I got maybe three hours of exhausted sleep and awoke to the inevitable. He had the worst seizure yet before we could get him to the vet. Proud as ever, Matty walked himself into the vet's. This precious little dog had become so completely embedded in our hearts in the short five and a half months we were blessed with him. A sweeter, gentler spirit I've never known. Our lives have been enriched by his presence. Now if I could just stop crying.

OK, let's give this another try...

2010-09-05T16:12:00.000-07:00

Please let me apologise for my previous 'pity party'. Depression is nothing to snicker at and I've had my share. Fortunately I have good friends, doctors and meds. One great place I've found that has really helped me this time around is Pam Kellogg's site. Pam is an amazing and talented woman. Her willingness to share her journey has been inspiring to me (and so much more eloquent than I could've ever said). It must have been devine intervention that sent me to her blog at just the right time.

I won't talk about August here other than to say I had let circumstances beat me down. September will be better! I know this because I have several "me" time activites planned. Got to get back to 'taking care of me'.

As I mentioned before, I have been doing some stitching and have a few completions to share. First is the birth sampler I stitched for DH's niece's baby. It is based on Ellen Chester's design "A Child's Prayer". I modified it, of course, to suit my needs. Stitched on 18ct Celeadon aida with DMC threads. Unfortunately, my photo doesn't do it justice (a bit too blue).

Then, I have finished stitching several Little House Needleworks' Christmas Ornaments. Notice I only said "finished stitching". I am still finishing challenged. Oh, how I wish I had someone talented that way to help me take the plunge. Guess I need to get brave and use some of the wonderful on-line tutorials.

This is "The Merry Skater".
Next is "Red House in Winter".
And finally "Peppermint Twist". I followed this chart to-a-T except I just couldn't put the candy-cane button on it. The button I received was mostly red (Christmas Red) with a white stripe. The chart showed a white button with red stripes. I just couldn't put a bright red button on this lovely subtle shade of red floss. A personal preference.

I've just received the next ornament in this series so I'll have another soon. I can't believe I've kept up with these all year. I love Diane Williams' designs.

Now, since you've followed along this far and since I had a blogoversary September 1st and since my birthday is next week, I'm going to have a giveaway. Let's call it my birthday present to one of my readers. Only one rule: you must respond to this post before Monday, September 13th. I will have DH pick a number on the 13th and announce the lucky winner. Oh, a small hint, as our weather has been perfect Fall weather (I'm expecting an early Winter) that will be the theme of this giveaway.

Beware! Pity Pool - don't jump in!

2010-08-23T19:42:00.000-07:00

OK, I know it's been a full month since my last post. So much has happened. Most of it bad stuff. I hate feeling this way. I'm considering giving up blogging. It's all I can do to get through reading the wonderful blogs I love so much. So many creative people out there and I'm so envious of your many talents.

I have been able to put needle to thread occasionally. I have finished the birth announcement and an ornament or two. No photos now, sorry. When/if I get the energy to blog again I will have photos to share. Promise! They're taken & in the computer, I just haven't the energy to post any more right now.

Missing you,
Barb

OMG!!!!

2010-07-23T18:40:00.000-07:00

So, I drop by to post a bit about my latest finish and see that last week's post disappeared! Where did it go? It's not even saved as a draft. Sheesh! Don't know if I have the energy to regroup & repeat it all.
It was about the Sisters Quilt Show, which was fabulous

There's a great little antique/junque mall in Sisters. I found these lovelies! More frogs for my growing collection. Isn't this porcelain one the most beautiful? In the white one I plan to make a pincushion (I know this wasn't originally made to be a frog but it will become one now). I couldn't wait to put a few scissors in them. Woo hoo! Now I get to buy more scissors!!!
And we took a few relaxing local rides. This is Elk Lake, about a half hour West of here. We took the dogs swimming at East Lake, about an hour East of here. The bugs were awful. Didn't stay there for long!

So, back to this week's business... I've been working on a birth announcement based on With My Needle's "A Child's Prayer". I've changed the font to a back-stitched one rather than the cross-stitched one mostly to make it a bit smaller. I'm liking it! Perhaps a photo next week. Also I finished one of the LHN monthly ornaments "All Dolled Up". The bird is charted to be white but it just didn't look 'right' to me. I took it out & redid it in red. Much better, a cardinal!
So I can add this one to my stack of over two dozen ornaments needing to be finished. Yes, I've stitched them but have a finishing deficiency. Do you suppose Vonna would give me a bulk rate?

...And A Week Later...

2010-07-17T17:25:00.001-07:00

Quilting, Quilting, Quilting and a bit of Stitching!

2010-07-09T07:24:00.000-07:00

This has been a very busy & glorious week for me!

First off, our little town has it's Frontier Days celebration the July 4th week. We have an excellent Quilt Show as part of the festivities. So many wonderful quilters in this area. Lots of inspiration!

The second week-end in July is always the Sisters Quilt Show. The week leading up to the Show is busy, busy, busy! Our little burg is right smack on the highway to Sisters. Our quilt shop, Homestead Quilts, is becoming very well known to quilters, especially those traveling up from California, Nevada, Utah and far beyond. Fortunately for me, with all the additional traffic (aka customers) in the shop, Cathy (the owner) needs more hands to work. I always volunteer whenever extra help is needed (and get paid with a very generous shop credit). It's like putting a kid in a candy store. I love being with all the fabrics and helping and meeting the people from all over. Yesterday I met a lovely lady that traveled from England for the Quilt Show. Too much fun!

This year I'm skipping out of work for two days. DH's cousin, Madeline, is flying in from Alaska & we will meet in Sisters. She has a room reserved (not an easy feat) for four of us. M & I always have great fun rooming together. Living so close I've gone to the Show before but never for more than a day. This will be a real treat to stay over and take my time seeing everything.

On Sunday I'll be back in our quilt shop. Loads of customers stop in on their way home. Many have pre-ordered items to be picked up. Like I said, I'm just a kid in a candy store. Then I'll also have to 'pay the piper' for all the goodies I've stashed under the counter. Yummy!

In the evenings I need to sit with an ice pack on my knee so it's perfect for some stitching time. I'm working on A Child's Prayer by With My Needle. Slightly modifying it to be a birth sampler for DH's niece's baby boy (no pics yet).

Happy 4th & a small finish!

2010-07-04T08:29:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July! Please have a safe celebration!

Guess I'm not a very good holiday person. I enjoy the deeper meaning of the holidays rather than the celebrations. Christmas has gotten out of hand with all the commercialization etc. But back to the 4th.. the fireworks terrify my Kelly dog. Won't know how Matty will respond but I doubt it will be a problem as his hearing is so impaired. Besides that, I firmly believe that children and fireworks are a very bad combination. Even most adults shouldn't be playing with fire. Leave it to the professionals please! Now I'll step down from my soapbox.. .

I finished this small piece designed by Aury . She does such beautiful designs. I have last year's piece also in my finish drawer. Decided this would fit nicely as a quilt block in one of my Quilts Of Valor. Not sure I'm liking the fabric, I may change it to a solid color.

I've been quilting this week. No photo yet but I'm making a QOV with some signature squares. It felt like a good patriotic way to spend the week.

This week begins the Sisters Quilt Show activites. I'll be volunteering at our local quilt store as we get an amazing amout of traffic even though we are an hour away from Sisters. Friday night I'll be staying in Sisters with Madeline, my cousin-in-law from Alaska. Two days of wild fun with M at the quilt show! You'll be hearing more about that!!!

Today my two grandsons, Alex (10) and Tyler (6) are arriving. There will be no stitching or quilting goin on! We call them the terrorists. It usually takes Pops and I a week to recover from them. I'm hoping they'll want to attend our local festivites and rodeo. I want to!

Have a safe and fun 4th celebration!

Happy Dancin'

2010-06-24T14:43:00.000-07:00

Everybody, get out your dancin' shoes! I have finished stitching the Wiehenburg Contest Sampler. And I love it! I used SilkWeaver's Tranquility 28ct Lugana and Sulky Threads 12wt Peacock Plume. It's turned out so lovely and I bet you can't even find my MAJOR foo-paw. Yep! I found one last night just as I was finishing and I've decided not to rip it out. Can you see where I personalized it? Along with my initials, which are both B, I added a bee and a butterfly. Both of these have crowns above them so I'm calling them Queen Bee and Monarch Butterfly. (BTW, that white mark in the upper right is NOT on the fabric!)

Have decided I need to work on some smalls for a bit. Maybe try some finishing techniques as I have at this count 27 ornaments sitting in my 'little drawer of finishes'. And, I'm still not caught up on my LHN monthly ornaments or the Bride's Tree ornaments. So many goodies calling my name plus the ever-growing stash acquisitions. What's a girl to do? Where does all my time go? Whew!

Thanks for stopping by & sharing in my dancin'.

A Little Catching Up!

2010-06-21T08:08:00.000-07:00

I'm a sucker for counted cross stitch. If you've been here before you will know this. It happens that our National Parks offer a cross stitch of each park in their gift shops. Crater Lake NP was no exception. I think this one is particularly lovely. Now, having these little kits and stitching them is a whole different story. I've not completed a one of them yet!!!
Here's my "almost completed" Weihenburg Contest Sampler. I'm so pleased with the way this is turning out. I love the colors! Can you see the bee and the hive I've put in to personalize it? I may rip the hive out as it looks a bit crowded. Maybe I can put it on the unfinished side. Hmmm!
Soooo, while I was out & about the other day I caught a sale at Michael's. I bought a few trims, a few beading do-dads, this lovely white frame and this unfinished box. I have just the piece for this frame!

Notice the two little yo-yos on the box? I happened upon a NEW quilt shop in town. I actually read about them in the paper & was heading their way. They just opened June 1 but his week-end was the "Grand Opening". Quilt Works (no web site yet). I'll be visiting them again soon! Of course a gal has to support the local economy and I wish them much success. Oh! The yo-yos, I made them during a demonstration. I have one of those yo-yo makers somewhere around here but have never tried it. Pretty neat!

Of course, when I get to town to run the usual errands I always stop by Joann's. They had patriotic fabrics on sale. Aren't these lovely? I needed some neutrals.

But then, I was wandering past the decorator fabrics and it struck me that I had recently disembled two throw pillows, saving the nice long zippers. I 'needed' to make new covers. Look at the lovelies I chose. Don't they go well with the sofa fabric?

So, today I was tidying up my sewing room and got inspired to frame a little piece I had stitched years ago. I think it was a Brooke's Books pattern. I like the white frame but maybe it should go in a darker frame. Wouldn't wash out the pretty pink fabric so much. I'll look at it a while longer.

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-20T14:32:00.000-07:00

Oh, how I miss my dad! I miss him every day. I was a daddy's girl.

My dad died in 1983, while away on a trip to Vancouver, B.C. Canada. He had gone there to pick up a family friend, to bring him to Seattle to celebrate Christmas with us. Christmas has never been the same since that awful year. We had to have his services the morning of Dec. 23 or wait until after the new year. Hardly any relatives were able to attend. Fortunately, dad was an honored member of The Seattle Men's Chorus. They did a lovely service and also dedicated their Christmas Concerts to Dad.

On a much brighter note... here's my dear husband. The love of my life. I may complain about him, he's not perfect. Who is? Certainly not me! But, I'm blessed to be his and he is mine. I'll keep him!
He is father to three boys, grandfather to one granddaughter and two grandsons. Thus far, all of them have shown themselves to be outstanding citizens, loving and kind. I am proud of them all!

Surprise!! Here I Am Again!

2010-06-15T18:45:00.000-07:00

Shocking is more like it! Shocking that it's been almost three weeks since my last post. I've been one busy little bee.

I'm offically a Hospice volunteer now and have met my first client. She's a sweetie! Her only reason for living is her darling Corgi, Tucker. Fortunately she lives less than 2 miles away so I can check in often.

One of my dearest friends, Julie, from working days has been here for a visit. We've been playing tourist for days. Luckily the weather has been the best so far this year. A few photos to enlighten you (caution: this portion will be photo heavy):

Beautiful Crater Lake at Crater Lake National Park (Of course! Where else would it be?)

We had the most delicious lunch at The Lodge!

Julie's not terribly short - the snow is exceptionally deep!

My 'Edith Ann" imitation. Anyone remember that from Lily Tomlin? I couldn't get up into the rocking chair so this bench had to do.

A different direction this day... into the desert. Smith Rock State Park, there are actually people climbing on these rocks! Hoowee!

Lake Billy Chinook, one of Central Oregon's "mini grand canyons"

Central Oregon's Painted Hills My itty-bitty camera just couldn't do them justice.

Fort Rock in "The Oregon Outback". Shaped like a horseshoe, this monolith grows up out of the desert like a mini Ayers Rock, although it's not mini by any means.

We also visited the Fort Rock Museum. Very interesting AND for those stitchers and quilters who have stuck wtih me this long, a bit of a treat.

Excuses Excuses!!

2010-05-27T14:27:00.000-07:00

Yes, again I've been away from Blogland for too long. Ten days since my last entry. I've been on the computer (ie: facebook and POGO) far too much. And a slight fibro flare. Those are my excuses and I'm stitckin' to 'em!

I have been stitching in the evenings, mostly on the Wiehenburg Contest Sampler. the fabric is Silkweavers Tranquility 28ct Laguna. I sure wish they still had this one for sale! The thread is Sulky 12wt Peacock Plume. I've never used Sulky before and I've gone out to buy almost all of their colors now. It does a real nice coverage doing one over two.

I'm off now to read my two new quilting mags that just arrived. Maybe my quilting mojo is hidden in one of them. I'd sure like to get back to quilting this summer.

Holey Moley! Where Does The Time Go?

2010-05-17T18:51:00.001-07:00

I cannot believe this is my first post of May! Where is my life disappearing to? Just yesterday it was April! Is it really true that the older you get, the faster your life goes? Must be! So, I'll attempt to catch you up on the goings on around here.

Our Matty had surgery on his foot May 5th. The tumor was removed and the vet says things look good for the old man. (Not DH, the dog, silly) We did not have any of the fatty bumps & tumors removed. The foot is still bandaged and he gets the stitches out on Wednesday. DH has been a champion about changing Matty's dressings. His teeth were cleaned at the same time so the vet could get a good exam. Matt is doing well. He's so fun to watch as he tries to keep up with the girls. I've never heard him bark but DH says he did the other day. This boy is a chow hound and knows where all the treats are kept. The girls have been teaching him bad manners too. We are so lucky to have such a dear dog in our lives and are very thankful to all of Matty's benefactors.

Also on the 5th I left home to attend my very first Stitching Retreat. It was put on by Vicki and Donna of the NorthWest Stitchers Group and held in Union, Washington. This is the view we had to put up with
The weather was perfect! We had a hot tub with the same view. Pretty harsh! Twenty one fabulous women! I made new friends and enjoyed old ones too. A lot of stitching, eating, laughing, great prizes, a bit of drinking (what's a sunny day on the deck without a good beer or wine?), a bit of stash swapping. These are the ladies, don't we look delighted? Yours truly is the second from the left.

This past week I've been cleaning up my desk, catching up on some stitching, attending a couple of meetings at Hospice, tidying up my sewing room and even a bit of yard work. All that routine stuff except for the stitching, that could never become routine.

My latest work is the contest sampler piece by Wiehenburg. It's turning out gorgeous! I'm using Silkweavers Tranquility 28ct and Sulky 12wt Thread Peacock Plume. Today I spent some time browsing my charts for some Bs and bees. I want to personalize it and since both my initals are Bs, what else? The photo will have to wait til the morning. Everything I tried tonight looks too washed out.

MIA!!!

2010-04-30T14:01:00.000-07:00

Well, I've definitely been 'Missing' (sheesh, time marches on even without me)! And I've definitely been 'In Action' (more about that in a bit)! No need to send the troops out searching for me though. I'm here and well and busier than a bee's butt!

The last I posted much was about Matty joining our pack. What a dear little dog he is. Sure wish we knew more about his history, it would be interesting! It appears he wasn't abused as he's a brave little soul and doesn't flinch from touch. However, his physical condition leads us to believe he wasn't very well taken care of. Yet, he wasn't terribly malnourished. Matt will go for some needed surgeries next Wednesday, the 5th. Two things about this: First, Deb (Matty's wonderful benefactor) with the help of many generous people, has raised enough money to cover all of the costs for Matty's healthcare. Bless all of you, you know who you are! Second, I must go out of town on the 5th and won't return until the 9th. I know DH is fully capable (within reason) What happens if it gets beyond reason? I'll be home on the 9th, nobody will perish before then. Right?

Whew! I've finally finished both classes I've been attending. Fortunately they only overlapped for two weeks and the homework hasn't been much.

The week-end of April 17 - 18 was our Washington/Oregon Stitching GetTogether. I love these! Always so much fun with like minded women from all over the NorthWest. Again, Tracy of Ink Circles and Carrie of Carrie's Creation attended. As usual, I spent way too much on Carrie's silks. I also picked up all the flosses needed for LHN's Sea To Shining Sea at my LNS, Acorns & Threads, in Portland. (local, as in nearly 4 hours away)

April 18th was DH's stepmom's 97th birthday. Happy Birthday Phyllis! I wasn't there as I was at the above mentioned stitching GTG.

On the 22nd we gathered with friends for a surprise birthday party for my dear friend Terry! HB girl, you're getting younger lookin' every day!

April 24th was the wedding date for our youngest son, Jim, and his bride, Teila. We were only given a ten day notice to get this shindig together (guess what I've been doing?). As the men in my life are of Native American decent we were offered one of the tribe's properties for the event. Our Chief performed the ceremony (his first wedding{other than to his beautiful wife}).

We had a lovely time and everything turned out beautifully. DH's stepmom, Phyllis, was able to attend (thank you Patrick). After the ceremony we all went to dinner at the casino. We were able to get the newlyweds a room for the night. Can you believe those kids spent some of their wedding money gambling? Crazy! They must live under a lucky star as Jim won a $500 chip in poker. Word is they're up $470! Without further ado, here's the lucky couple:

Back to April 23rd: We picked up the wedding cake early & headed to the coast. Our greatest concern was how to get Matty into the motorhome. We had been trying to work with him all week to no avail. We even tried to go back to working on getting into the car. He isn't able to do either. His back legs are just not strong enough. Soooo, we figured out a sling made from a towel and would hand him off to each other. Luckily Matt is able to climb down the coach steps pretty well (not so with the car). Matty's taken to riding in the motorhome like a champ. He was so good the entire trip. Fortunately, we were able to hook-up right at the property where the wedding took place so we were never far away. Unfortunately we were never able to take him out on the sand as he has an open wound on his foot. Someday soon Matty, I promise!

Now, on to the stitchy stuff! No, I won't chronicle all my new stash. That might lead you to think I might actually use some of my precious stash. I do have a couple of finishes to show you though. First is my LHN 'The Library'. Man, this one almost became a UFO! All that solid stitchingis soooo boring!

Next is the fifth in the LHN Ornament SAL series. I skipped the forth and am stitching it now. I just couldn't resist this lamb. I stitched him in Whisper Thread to make him look wooly. The photo is very dark (what's up with my flash?). The fabric is actually an 18ct Dirty stitched over one. Oh, and one last thing since you've come this far. Many of you know Paulette of Plum Street Samplers. Take a look at what she and her mom, Marsha, and her sister, Audrey, are cooking up on their new blog Four Seasons Cafe. Fantastic! I don't enjoy cooking very much but I do love to bake! Now wait just a second there.... I just lost all this weight! This might be a really bad idea for me.

This Speaks For It's Self!

2010-04-15T16:53:00.000-07:00

Meet Matty!

2010-04-13T10:20:00.000-07:00

Matty has quite a story but most of it we will never know. He was found nearly dead in a field near our main road. People had asked in at my friend Deb's shop if she knew who the owner was. Nobody was sure if he had been hit. People just drove on by. Deb and several others went to get him and called the sheriff for transport to an emergency vet. Then he was moved to the Humane Society. There he had to be held for five days before anything could be decided about him. They decided he was unadoptable & would put him down. Deb was outraged.

I received THE CALL. Could I, would I take in this poor dog? I met Deb at the Humane Society to meet the dog. DH said he would support whatever I chose to do. What a gentle soul this dog turned out to be. I was hooked. He was matted so badly that even his sex was undetermined for a time. I chose the name Matt!

The next morning an emergency visit to a groomer. He was so terrified the job was only mostly completed. We suspected Matty was blind and deaf. But what a change in this dog's look! He's gorgeous! Such a puppy face for an old dog. And he fairly pranced around once we got him home. Our girls, Kelly and Jessie have been very accepting of Matt which is making the transaction much easier. Also, Moses (the cat) and Matty get along very well.

The next day we visited the vet. Cataracts, yes! Hearing impaired, yes! Teeth in terrible shape (the reason he wasn't eating too well). Most of his lumps are just fatty tissue, common with age. One lump on his foot seems to be cancerous. This needs to be taken care of in the near future.

The vet gave us a quote that floored me! So very generous! He's cut the cost to the bare bones. He'll remove the tumor and clean up the teeth. We'll wait a few weeks to let Matty acclimate to his new family. Meanwhile, I'm cooking special meals for our dear boy. Easy on his teeth & fatten him up.

Another call from Deb. She's a force to be reckoned with. She's told Matty's story to everyone that enters her shop. She's put it on Facebook. People are soooo generous. There have been offers of homes for Matty. Best of all, people are donating for the cost of Matty's surgery and care. What a relief and joy!

So without further ado, here's' Matty

Here We Go Again! And a Birthday Giveaway

2010-04-13T10:08:00.000-07:00

WOW! I can't believe more than a week has gotten away from me again. It happens easily! All sorts of things happening here in the Brainard's Barracks.

First and very importantly, son #3 is getting married! On the 24th! Yes, 24th of April, this year! We just found out and all sorts of panic has set in. It will be a small affair. They have been living together for several years now. So WE think it's about time. I think DH has been pushing them a bit as her family believes they are already married. Thus, none of her clan will be there and the burden of cost is falling on us. Very bad timing as we were hit hard this year by the IRS.

I have been busy with classes. My Wednesday class (a series of six weeks) will end this week. However, my Thursday class will continue for another five weeks. At least now it will be only one day per week. My homework has been flagging.

Then there's Matty. See other post, this date.

Almost every evening I have been able to stitch for several hours. The Library is finished as far as I can go until I get more floss. I'm trying to catch up on the LHN's monthly ornaments now.

This week-end, the 17th & 18th, is our stitcher's GTG in Portland. I'm so excited to get away and spend time with these talented ladies. A visit to my nearest LNS, Acorns and Threads. Yippee! I'll pick up threads to finish The Library and do a floss toss for the Weihenburg Contest piece.

Can you believe this? I'm having the awfulest time deciding what to get with my $50 credit I won for 1-2-3 Stitch from Felicity. Like DH says, I can't even decide what to get in a restaurant. Everything looks too delicious!

BTW, Vicky's turning 40! Check out her very generous Birthday Giveaway

Happy Hoppy!

2010-04-04T08:32:00.000-07:00

Blessed Resurrection Sunday to those who believe.

Happy Easter to everyone! Isn't this tree fabulous? It's in Germany and the couple have been decorating it like this every Easter for decades.

I've read some amazing blogs this morning. Some people have this wonderful talent with words. Others are so crafty (and I don't mean in the sneaky way!). Not I! It's another of those things I aspire to. Yet, I sit here at this computer too many hours each day, absorbing others creations. I think it's high time I made some effort. I seem to be stuck again, fixated on one project at a time. I want to finish LHN's The Library! This is such a lovely piece but it's got so many large boring solid stitching parts. I'm yearning to work on something else but my OCD reigns. I have several other large pieces started and they haunt me. Arrrgh! Soooo, anyways, here's my latest update photo of The Library.

Ain't It The Truth?

2010-03-31T10:28:00.000-07:00

This was in yesterday's newspaper. My DH cut it out & placed it on my desk. LOL I'm surprised he didn't change the cat's name to Moses and knitting to stitching or even keyboard. Those happen to be Mo's favorite places to lay. Enjoy!

I'm so Lucky! Again!

2010-03-26T15:43:00.000-07:00

Definately have to share this! You aren't going to believe this! Please don't be mad at me! This just happens to be my luck right now and I sure hope it holds for a long, long time. Think I'll run out and buy some lotto tickets.

I found out that I'm the first prize winner of Felicity's Blog Anniversary. A $50 gift voucher from 1-2-3 Stitch. Isn't this fabulous! I'm so excited! I've spent hours looking at 1-2-3 Stitch trying to decide what to get.

I'm So Lucky!

2010-03-24T11:49:00.001-07:00

As I mentioned a bit ago, I have been very fortunate this year. For the third time I have won something stitchy. Today these goodies arrived from Deb at Tempting Tangles. Tizzy & Gracie, Deb's cats, chose my name to win Deb's Spring Contest last Sunday. My prize is Examplars From The Heart 'The Virtue Sampler' along with hand painted fabric from Sugar Maple Fabrics and 18 skeins of beautiful silks from Vikki Clayton's Hand-Dyed Fibers. These silks are soooo soft to touch! I've never tried them before & can't wait. Thank you Deb and thank Tizzy and Gracie too. Those cats really know how to pick winners!

I'm determined to finish LHN's 'The Library' before I move on to another project. It's progressing nicely. I've been able to stitch almost every evening for several hours. I'll show an updat photo in a few days time.

Welcome Home Brandon!!!

2010-03-21T14:07:00.000-07:00

Jennifer has the most wonderful reason to celebrate. Her son, Brandon, is returning from a year in Afghanistan. She is honoring Brandon by having a very special give-away. Head on over and leave a "Welcome Home" for Brandon.

God Bless America

Gratitude and Stitching

2010-03-21T11:30:00.000-07:00

" At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us. " - Albert Schweitzer.

Well friends, I have been in a bit of a slump of late. Seeming to muddle through my days and nights. A general funk, I guess, because when I take an accounting I realize I have done quite a lot in spite of my malaise. I shall blame this all on taxes!

I have neglected to journalize my Gratitude. It's not that I've not spent considerable time thinking on the subject. I have so much to be grateful for. This has been an extremely lucky year for me. Matter-of-fact, I should rush out and buy a lotto ticket.

To date, I have won three giveaways this year. Becky's Be Of Good Cheer tin. Cheryl's Oak Basket. And today, Deb's Springtime Contest. I love my stitchy friends! Your teach me, encourage me, share openly, make me laugh, and occasionally, make me cry. You are my connection to the world from this "Oregon Outback".

In spite of my physical disabilities I am getting healthier. I am better today than I've been in twenty years! I am grateful for the help of my class leaders, support group, on-line group and especially my doctors. This past year has been an amazing journey!

Well... for today, that's enough! Lets get on to my stitching update. I'm kind of stuck on LHN's 'The Library'. The brick work was extremely boring as are the book backs. Only one to go. Whew! I really want ot finish this piece. I keep chanting "this will not become a UFO". So many other projects are calling to me.

Bride's Tree SAL

2010-03-14T20:09:00.001-07:00

March's theme for the Bride's Tree SAL is "FLower or Flower Basket" - good wishes, beauty in the home. I stitched this from Aury's design using up a scrap of misc fabric. It doesn't look very Christmasy to me. I think I'll restitch it making all of the flowers red. They look a lot like poinsettias to me.

I'm A Winner

2010-03-14T19:50:00.000-07:00

I still can't believe I won this gorgeous basket from Cheryl at Prairie Grove Peddler. But I have it in my hot little hands and it's a beauty. This is how Karen discribes it: "an oak market basket that was made by me years ago. It's about 12-1/2" tall with handle. It has a beautiful color from aging and signed with the number #470 on the bottom. I made over 2000 baskets before I stopped selling them so this was an earlier one."
I would really like to stitch a lid for this basket. But we all know how that goes (at least for me). Great plans - little time. I will try to find a suitable chart but I fear I will get sidetracked by all the other projects screaming at me from my sewing room. It's getting so bad in there I can hardly bear to enter. I think I'll blame all the chaos on the teddy bears (although it definately started before they were allowed in there).

A Great Giveaway

2010-03-14T19:38:00.000-07:00

Karen of Sew Many Ways is having her "One Year Of Tool Time Tuesday Giveaway". She is such a creative soul and I love to see what she will come up with each week. You really should check her blog out.

Meet Blossom

2010-03-10T22:16:00.000-08:00

See the lovely little lady bear to the right? Her name is Blossom. Blossom is one-of-a-kind, fully jointed, and 6.5” tall. She was created by my very, very talented friend Ginger Brame. Ginger is having a Spring Giveaway and Blossom is the prize. I want her so badly to come live with me so please don't go to Ginger's blog and enter, just go and look. OK?

A Beautiful Gift For Becky's Birthday

2010-03-05T15:52:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I received this most beautifully stitched and finished tin from Becky. Isn't this gorgeous? I'm thrilled! She was giving away gifts for her birthday instead of receiving them. I was chosen to receive this tin. My first attempt to photograph it was ruined by Moses, my cat. He laid on top of it. When I pushed him off he curled around it protectively. I had to ask Becky if she had put catnip in the tin. Nope! He just liked it a lot. I did finally get a nice photo but decided to show you this one with Mo.

Sad But True....

2010-03-04T15:05:00.000-08:00

Every time I went into the garage I would hear whimpering and sniffling. I knew what it was but had to ignore it. My heart was breaking! How long would this go on? Am I really that cold hearted? Well...

I recently bought a beautiful little hutch from a friend who's wife died last year. It's very sad, but I did not know this woman. I see her husband still mourning his loss. One day he mentioned the hutch and asked if I was interested. Was I ever!! It wasn't exactly what I had been looking for but it's so lovely I had to buy it.

Now, a few of you may know that I "used" to collect teddy bears. I guess, in reality, I still do. I just haven't invested in any bears for years. In fact, since moving to Oregon and marrying DH, very few of my bears have been visible.
Well, that's about to change!!! No, no, I'm not un-marrying DH. And I'm not leaving Oregon (yet).

This where my new hutch comes in. I cleaned and polished to my heart's delight. Then I went to the garage, brought out a ladder, and box by box brought all of my bears into the house. No more whimpering and sniffling! Only tears of joy and laughter! What a glorious reunion it was!! So many bear hugs! For one day I had the party of a lifetime. It was very difficult to choose. I think I chose well. Now my bears can watch me work at my desk/computer and we can chat whenever we like. Soooo, ladies and gentlemen, please meet the bears... TOP SHELF
THE CUPBOARD
BOTTOM SHELF

Now the sad and unfortunate part of this story is that I had to place four 3sq.ft. boxes of bears back into storage that night. We talked at length about all the fussing they were making every time I entered the garage. An agreemant has been made that I will bring them all out for an annual party. Sounds like fun to me!

It's March???

2010-03-03T14:26:00.000-08:00

Where on earth did January & February go? Before we know it Christmas will be here again! OH NO! Don't even think that! Hush my mouth!

Besides running in and out of town for doctor's appointments our lives have been pretty dull lately. Perhaps it's just the let-down after my fabulous stitching week-end in Portland. Ah well, I've had plenty of time to stitch. If I could only tear myself away from this blasted computer.

Have any of you had experience with rechargable batteries? A few years ago DH bought me a lovely little pink camera. We purchased rechargable batteries and a charger. Lately the batts aren't holding the charge. Soooo... I'm using regular old 1.5 V batts. This camera is sucking the juice outta these babies like a kid with a juicebox. Any ideas? Do I need to buy new rechargables? Do I need a new charger? Do these things have a limited life span? I'm flumoxed!

Quilty Stuff:
Somebody cut some fabric a bit on the skinny side! (Who?) Then she thought she could fudge it and go on. (HA!) The squares weren't too bad. (double HA!) Once the body of the quilt top started to go together it looked wonky. (really bad!!) Frustration set in. Had to fold this puppy up and put it away for deconstruction at a later date or I was going to toss it in the dust bin. (now that would be a total waste of some beautiful fabric)

I'm praying my quilting mojo will come back soon as I really want to get on with the Postage Stamp Quilt.

Stitchy Stash: (didn't somebody say I was on a diet?)
e-Bay
Yes, I'm bad! Just coudn't pass up "Patchwork Puzzle Balls" by Jinny Beyer. These have intriguesd me and I HAVE to try them.
Also, I've won
S.P.Ink "Jesus Loves Me"
Stoney Creek "Home Repairs"
Waxing Moon Designs "My Needle And My Floss"

stitching GTG
Brightneedle Charted Designs "Key West Sampler"
Rosewood Manor a XS card chart without a name
Sweetbriar Needle Design "A Friend Knows"
Val's Stitchin' Stuff "here A Cat, There A Cat"
Waxing Moon Designs "Autumn Nap"

Acorns & Threads in Portland, OR
Little House Needleworks "Schoolgirl Lessons"
Simple Stitches "Don't Cross Me When I'm Stitchin'"
Simple Stitches "Just One More Stitch"
Sisters and Best Friends "Hollyhock Sampler - Strength"

Stitchy Stuff
It's repaired! We can open the door! I frogged a section of the door and placed the doorknob thingy on LHN's "The Library". Also the door arch is finished and I'm ready to stitch the birds.

While I was bummed about the frog's visit I pulled out a UFO and finished it! Here's Prairie Schooler's "Country Wise". This one I'm going to hang over my cutting board (check back at the quilty stuff).

Oh man! The Frog is here! (Again!)

2010-02-28T14:51:00.000-08:00

Can you see it? Look a little closer. Yep! I was just stitching along, watching the Olympics when the frog snuck into the room. Did you find it yet? On "The Library" I forgot to stitch the doorknob thingy. Of course I was disgusted! Had to put the piece down before I crazily started ripping away. I will rip-it and re-stitch today while watching NASCAR and the Olympics. Meanwhile, today has been so lovely that I've had the doors open to air the place out. Hopefully the frog hopped outta here too.

Friday Night Sew-in

2010-02-27T12:43:00.000-08:00

Friday, as it turns out, was a very very productive day! A little incentive was the Friday Night Sew-in and the drawing this week-end for the participants.

Started early by working on my QOV for a few hours. I'm ready to put on the first border. My back was aching pretty bad and I didn't think it would help to keep working in the sewing room. (sorry, photos looked awful so I will not post them)

In the evening I chose to cross stitch & watch TV. I'm making good time in my LHN SAL "The Library". The center portion, the door, is another quite boring section. Lots of solid spaces. It makes for easy stitching while watching the Olympics.

In todays mail I received a package from Anita's. The 3rd ornament in the LHN Ornament SAL "Snowy Pines" and the design #1 of the SYHO SAL "A Life Lived For Others" by Glendon Place.

We had our taxes DONE today. Words cannot say what I feel. We must pay again. I thought I had really figured our deductions close enough that we should break even. Not even close! I'm about to pull my hair out!!! I hate to end on a downer, sorry.

Quilting Fun!

2010-02-25T15:07:00.000-08:00

I have been trying to give myself more time to quilt. Seems with the Olympics and life in general, my quilting has been getting ignored. Sooooo, I've been getting up a wee bit earlier and going straight to my sewing room. There's a QOV (Quilt Of Valor) in the works. I'm not terribly happy with it but I will press on, BECAUSE, I want to make make a Postage Stamp Quilt. The fabrics are gathered. I just want to finish the QOV first and I'm almost there. If you're interested in making a Postage Stamp Quilt, I think I mentioned in an earlier blog entry, Heidi is posting a tutorial. You can also click on the button in my right column to get there. Now, another thing I discovered on Heidi's blog (is she an enabler or what?) is the Friday Night Sew-In. This week she is also having a give-away. Since I usually sew or stitch every evening, I'm joining in on the fun.

Stitching Updates!

2010-02-23T13:55:00.000-08:00

Finished stitching LHN's "He's A Flake" this past week-end. He was such fun to stitch! I left the pattern with one of the stitching sisters in Portland as she is a snowman lover. Still have to decide how to finish him tho. I used a piece of
16ct aida called Sage and a brighter red, otherwise he is stitched as the pattern suggests. My next LHN ornament is in the mail, hoping to have it in my greedy little hands by week's end.

This is also my second and final piece I committed to stitch for the 2muchxs 2010 Olympics SAL Challenge.

I'm plugging along on LHN's "The Library". This SAL is lovely but I will be so pleased to finish it. All the solid stitched areas have been quite mindless and boring to work on. I'm much farther on with the door now as this photo was taken last night.

Weekly Gratitude

2010-02-22T10:03:00.000-08:00

I am so thankful for the simple things in my life; a hug, a smile, a kiss, a kind word, laughter, the snuggle of a dog nose. And for all the things I take for granted; being able to walk, talk, hear, see, my health (which isn't the greatest yet, so much better than many). The BIG things I don't give a second thought to; a comfy home, a safe vehicle, a loving and supportive husband, an income that allows us to live a moderate yet comfortable life.

FRIENDSHIP
Just returned from a week-end with some of the most wonderful women. They truly delight me. Our stitching group is varied in so many ways beyond the obvious (ages, abilities) yet we come together to share our love of needle and thread. We laugh, share, encourage, learn, teach, eat, enable, shop. They are generous beyond anything I've ever experienced. I've only been included in this sisterhood for one year now yet I feel a kinship here beyond acquaintances I have known for years. I've learned more about stitching from these ladies than in my entire past years of stitching. There is no judging here. They make me want to reach into myself for hidden strengths and talents and try new ventures. Beyond any other people in my life, these women are my friends. I look forward excitedly for our get-togethers. Whatever took me so long to find these kinds of friends? I'm just grateful to be counted among them now! (Oh yeah, they enable me to keep my wallet empty and my credit card full!!! ;)

I'm Outta Here! Again!

2010-02-19T20:10:00.000-08:00

Yes, again! It's that time again! I'm so excited! It's the WA/OR Stitchers Week-end Get-together. Happens every-other month except through the holidays. So I've been missing these wonderful ladies for months now! Unfortunate for us, fortunate for them, some of our gang will be hob-nobbing in Nashville. Ah well, perhaps they'll think of us poor minions and bring us goodies. It's happened before! Are we spoiled? You bet!
So, I'm off to pack my stitching bag and a few clothes. I've even remembered my camera (a first).
TTFN Ta Ta For Now!

Stitching Updates!

2010-02-15T10:04:00.000-08:00

Today is a lousy day for photography (at least at my skill level). Try as I may, this was the best I could get.

For my Olympics Challenge SAL and for the Bride's Tree SAL I chose to stitch "Be My Valentine - Quaker Style" a freebie by AuryTM. I changed up the colors to my choice. It is stitched on a remnant of cream 22ct aida. This is the first time I've stitched on 22ct. Gonna have to get me some more of that!!

This is my latest update on my LHN 'The Library'

BTW I did get Chinese take-out for dinner last night. I had to go pick it up though. Sigh!

Happy Valentines Day!

2010-02-14T11:48:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day everyone! We don't make a big deal of it here. It's also the Lunar New Year or Chinese New Year. We don't make much of that either but it's notable.

I awoke this morning (DH was already up) to Moses (the cat) puking on my bed. Oh yeah! So I got to change the linens first thing. I do hope this isn't an indication of how my day will go.

So, I'm off to watch the Daytona 500 with DH. Of course, I'll be stitching. Maybe I can talk DH into Chinese take-out for dinner!!!

2010 Olympics

2010-02-13T13:18:00.000-08:00

Are any of you watching the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver, B.C? I've always been a hit or miss watcher. This time I've been inspired times two to pay attention.

First, I was born in Vancouver and still have family & friends there (my BFF).

Second, one of the Yahoo groups I belong to, 2muchxs, is having an Olympic Challenge. You must start a piece during or any time after the Opening Ceremonies and finish that piece before or during the Closing Ceremonies. I have signed up to stitch two pieces.

Aury's freebie, "Be My Valentine - Quaker Style", which will also be my February piece for the Bride's Tree SAL .

"He's A Flake" by Little House Needleworks which will also be my February ornament in the LHN Ornament SAL.

Now, how's that for multi-tasking? Do you think it's fair to do it this way?

Gratitude

2010-02-12T08:45:00.000-08:00

One of my goals/desires/resolutions for 2010 was to practice gratitude. Late as it is, I've been inspired by CameoRose's blog. She has journaled so many wonderful thoughts and photos. Today I decided to join the Weekly Gratitude community. Karen & Lori, two very creative and inspiring ladies, have a blog set up to help us get started and share the gratitude.

GRATITUDE
As this is my first entry and I haven't spent much time today dwelling on any particular topic, I'll leave you with a few photos and come back later with my thoughts.

James: my love, my husband, my friend, He is my present.

Erica: my granddaughter, my sunshine, She is my future.

Pamela: my BFF, we've known each other since before we started kindergarten. I'd give her my life if I could. She is my history.

Kelly: my sweet companion. Ever loving, never judging, total unconditional love.

Postage Stamp Quilt SAL

2010-02-10T12:25:00.000-08:00

I have just run into the most wonderful SAL at Hand Made By Heidi! I've just joined, so check it out. I have posted a button in the right column. Have always wanted to make a Postage Stam Quilt! I am soooo jazzed about this project!!!

Stitching Update!

2010-02-09T19:46:00.000-08:00

Wow, I forgot that I hadn't shown an update of my LHN 'The Library' in quite a while. Here it is! I'm quite proud of getting this far. There are a lot of tedious stretches in this one. IE: the brickwork. I'm loving this design though and this fabric is a dream to work on.

It Must Be That Time Again!!

2010-02-07T13:15:00.000-08:00

WOW!!! There are so many new giveaways out here in blogland! So many generous, talented bloggers! Guess I should put my thinking cap on, but it barely fits over my serious concentration on winning, wishing brain. Makes for some great reading though!!

Anita has the 'Great Chocolate Cake Debate' going on as well as her very generous giveaway.

Lynn is giving away some beautiful Valentines.

Tia at Camp Follower Bags is so creative and generous! You should see what she can do with BDUs (Battle Dress Uniform)!

Geta from Romania has a blog that I have followed for quite some time. Her quilting is absolutely stunning and she is so generous at sharing her talents.

I know I've missed plenty of the giveaways. Editing is easy! There are also so many talented designers in blogland offering their designs free on a regular basis. Each of them is to be commended for their generousity.

The Ultimate Giveaway!

2010-02-07T12:03:00.000-08:00

My blog is mainly about my stitching and quilting. Occasionally I throw in something personal. This is very personal!!
I follow Shelly's fabulous blog "The World According To Eggface". Her blog is a work of art and Shel is the most creative cook I have ever encountered. She is having weekly giveaways this month and this week it's something I've coveted. A Cuisinart 1-1/2-Quart Ice-20 Automatic Ice Cream Maker. Anyone that knows me knows that I am an ice-cream-aholic. Shelly's recipes have literally saved my life! I had weight-loss surgery in 2009 and without Shelly's blog I think I may have died of boredom more than anything else. Check her out! She's so very entertaining and informative whether or not you're on a restricted diet or not!

Ornaments And Updates...

2010-01-30T09:58:00.000-08:00

Finished stitching 'Pear Tree' Thursday night. Just plain lazy at photographing & posting. Really enjoyed this second in the series of ornaments by Diane Williams of Little House Needleworks. Had started it over one on linen. That was a major mistake! So, here it is on a miscellaneous piece of 16ct off-white aida.

Yesterday the mailman brought me the third of Diane's ornaments, 'He's A Flake'. Last night I waded through my fabrics to find an appropriate green. I hadn't really wanted to start purchasing more fabrics when I decided to stitch both the LHN Ornament SAL and the Bride's Tree Ornament SAL. So far the only one that looks good is an aida again. I really don't mind stitching on aida, particularly the higher counts. I am also searching for an appropriate chart to stitch for the second Bride's Tree ornament. February's theme is "Heart, true love, love of family".

A little update on my LHN "The Library". It's been a bit ignored while I've stitched ornaments.

Several quilting magazines have arrived in my mailbox lately. I read them, drooling over the new fabrics that have come out and it makes me itch to start a new project. Like cross stitching, I must resist the new while I try to finish my WIPs and UFOs. I envy those with boundless energy and ability.

Complimentary LHN Chart & Bride's Tree SAL Finish

2010-01-25T14:42:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Diane Williams of Little House Needleworks released a complimentary chart to the members of the Little House Yahoo group. I took many liberties with her design but, here's my finished piece. It will become a Christmas ornament. I'm using it as my "House" ornament for the Bride's Tree SAL

Who Knows Where The Time Goes...

2010-01-24T13:24:00.000-08:00

Believe me, it's been a very dull week around here! I've been mostly stitching on my LHN "The Library". You know, the one I started stitching over one and really mucked up. Well, I'm stitching it on the same fabric, 32 ct Jobelyn Lambswool, but over two this time and it's soooo much better. Someday I may try over one stitching again, but not too soon.

Had a wee scare with a breast lump, again! All is well, thank God! So I spend a fair amount of time at doctor's offices etc..

It's begun snowing again. Just when I thought Spring was showing her lovely face (yesterday). And, I still had one Honey-do on my list (darn!). ;)

ARG! Spinning Wheels!

2010-01-17T01:19:00.000-08:00

Sorry, no, I haven't taken up a new hobby! Spinning wheels as in gettin' nowhere fast! That's what I've been doing lately.

I had this really great idea that I'd like to stitch one over one on linen. It looks so beautiful and delicate! A girl has to grow and I was feeling brave. Well, I botched three pieces. Yes, three! I couldn't do just one or even stop at two. Sooo, I went back to finish a piece on aida just to get back to my basics (it's a charity piece and still needs personalization before I'm really done wiwth it, so, no pics yet). I've restarted the biggest piece now using two over two as the designer suggests.

Over the week-end we had a surprise visit from the grandsons. We were expecting both sons and DIL but the grands were a bonus. They were only here over one night but it was fun. Grandpa cooked a huge country breakfast Sunday morning. So now the big ugly TV and all it's paraphenalia is gone with the kids.

Oh! I didn't tell you? Dh has ordered his "dream" TV. I insisted if he was getting it I wanted a new stand and a sound bar instead of the huge bulky speakers. So far everything has arrived except the TV. Slight delay, maybe this coming week. Meanwhile, we're watching a really teeny TV. We've rearranged furniture and tried to get ready. Some minor adjusting will be required. I'm sure the stuff on the walls will need a serious rearranging (it already does).

It's awfully late or terribly early (yawn). I'm taking my trusty dog and heading to bed. Night night!!!

Another Finish!

2010-01-07T21:52:00.000-08:00

Lookie, lookie!! I finished a SAL! The main chart of the Traveling Stitcher is completed. There's a small chart included and I'll probably stitch it up to use on a needlebook. I don't have the pattern to make the travel pouch shown in the photo on the chart. I could easily make one up myself but I'm not sure that's how I want to complete this piece. The pouch is cute and all, it's just that I don't think I would ever use it. It would get stuck in a drawer or given away, and since I really like this pattern I want it out where I can see it. Maybe a pillow or frame it! Any ideas?

Oopsie!

2010-01-05T13:27:00.000-08:00

Today's mail brought my 2nd ornament, "Pear Tree", in the LHN Monthly Ornament SAL. Then it struck me that I hadn't even posted the first one here. I did remember to post my finish of "Fa-La-La", the first ornament, on the SAL site. Here it is:
I finished stitching my Fa La La yesterday. Well, except, I may pull the googly eyes out & redo them. I hate French knots! No two ever look the same. Hence the googly eyes! Haven't decided on how to finish it yet. Try something new maybe? (Now, don't look too close or you'll see that I miscounted and the right side is taller than the left. Oops! My bad!)

Week One

2010-01-04T17:29:00.000-08:00

I've been a busy little stitcher so far this year!! Pardon my poor photographs and wrinkly fabrics. Here's the charity square I finished for CSFC on New Year's Day. Now just to wash & press it then off in the mail it goes.

The Library by LHN was my chosen chart to start the year. It's on 32ct Jobelyn Lambswool done one-over-one using the design's flosses. It's going to be teensy!! This is the first time I've worked one-over-one. Not bad as long as you don't have to 'frog'.

My old eyes grew weary quite quickly doing one-over-one. Soooo, I started Traveling Stitcher also by LHN. Both of these charts are being done as on-line SALs beginning the first of the year. Traveler is being done on 32ct Belfast Platinum using the design's provided floss two-over-two. Just in photographing it I've found two errors! Yikes!!

Wishing YOU Blessings In 2010!

2010-01-01T21:36:00.001-08:00

May your troubles be less,
Your blessings be more,
And nothing but happiness
Come through your door.
-Unknown

We had a very uneventful New Year's Eve. In bed well before midnight. Today I have spent most of the day stitching (between your typical household chores). I finished my first piece for the year. Actually, I planned it that way. I've been working on a square for CSFC (Cross Stitch For Charity) and knew I wouldn't get it done before the year ended. So I pushed on thru and finished it today. I also made a start on LHN's The Library. The SAL for this piece began today.

Now, back to the lists. I spent a bit of time going through what's been started and what's been kitted up as well as some committments I've made. Here are some well thought out goals for my new year:

STITCHING STARTS
two ornaments per month (LHN Ornament SAL and Bride's Tree Ornament SAL)
Prairie Schooler ABCs SAL
LHN Travelling Stitcher SAL
LHN THe Library SAL
Brooke's Books ABCs SAL
Christmas Pillow
at this point I am not participating in any exchanges. I will limit them to 4

STITCHING UFOs
Aury's Heritage SAL
2muchXS UFO Challenge - Monarch Butterfly by Dyan Allaire
PS Country Wise
PS Home OF A Needleworker
Sweetheart Tree - Cat Lovers biscornu
Janlynn - Black Retriever
Remberence
finishing techniques for ornaments

QUILTING
bind 3 existing quilts
four QOVs
two personal quilts
make two stitching totes

STASH
I will not purchase any cross stitch charts until I have completed a project and passed on the chart.
I will not purchase any stitching fabric but minimal that is needed to complete a project.
I will not purchase any quilting patterns.
I will not purchase any quilting fabric but minimal that is needed to complete a current project.

PERSONAL (am re-doing all of these as they all need work still)
practice Gratitude
be kinder to DH
drink, drink, drink water
excercise
eat healthier

Sooo... wish me luck!

2009 Winding Down!

2009-12-31T14:25:00.000-08:00

The countdown has begun! How will you spend your New Year's Eve? I, for one, will put on my 'party hat' and stitch the night away (at least until DH says he's had enough). We're in pretty much white-out conditions here with no end in sight. A foot of new snow today, so far. Luckily we have everything we need and no-place to go. The plow probably won't get up here 'til Saturday.

The dogs are having a great time whenever they venture out. Kelly's specialty is snow angels. Jessie does a fine high-step. What a riot to watch! Moses (the cat who owns us), on the other hand/paw is quite miffed. He cries to go out and two minutes later is scratching the screen on my window to come back in. I know I'm going to have to replace that screen. Dang! He hates the litter-box but hates the snow too. My new 2010 desk calendar is already damaged by wet cat laying on it & my keyboard.

As I've been AWOL since Christmas Eve morning, I will tell you that we had a safe trip both ways over the mountains and a fairly quiet Christmas (with two young boys NOT!). Again, I did not get one stitchy related gift. Next year I am being VERY specific. Obviously these guys won't buy me gift certificates. DH & I bought a Wii FIT for ourselves, exercise for me, games for him.

It's only fitting to mention here how I did on my goals for 2009:
STITCHING
finish 6 stitching UFOs before I can buy more stash (exceptions are auto ships and exchanges) Big uh oh! Really missed this one! I was worse than ever buying stash and only finished one UFO

complete at least one ornie per month yea! Stitched 14 and two starts. Unfortuantely, I only finished one. Need to work on my finishing techniques.

stitch a minimum of 6 charity pieces Well, I only stitched four blocks, but I did make three charity quilts.

begin a new BAP (this is difficult because I have so many I want to do and several in my UFOs to complete) completed one UFO and started two more

QUILTING
finish 5 quilting UFOs DONE still have at least this many more to finish Yikes!

take at least one class DONE

make two handbags or totes DONE

PERSONAL

practice Gratitude doing better but still needs work

be kinder to DH doing better but still needs work

drink, drink, drink water doing better but still needs work

excercise needs lots of work

eat healthier much better but still needs work

P.S. I did lose over 60 pounds this year!! Big Hooray!!

Tomorrow I'll fill you in on my new improved updated goals for 2010. Have a safe time if you celebrate tonight. Wishing you all a prosperous new year.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T11:40:00.000-08:00

Well, it's Christmas eve and I'm about as ready as I'll ever be. We're heading over the mountains to the 'wet side' in just a few moments. Leaving all our lovely snow behind. Ah well, it'll be a white Christmas here even if we're not.

I'm excited to see our two grandsons, Alex & Tyler. They're at that perfect age (5 & 10) where Christmas is still a wonder. Their dad is the worst, I think! He is soooo over the top about Christmas. Hoping to get some good photos this year. We need a new photo of DH & me. The last one of us together is quite a few years old and many pounds heavier, so I won't show it.

I've spent the past few days making Oregon Ducks stadium blankets. Our beloved Ducks are going to the Rose Bowl on January 1st. I made a blanket for our son and showed it to my friend Debra. This lead to making four more and I could've made dozens. I had to draw a line somewhere as I only had so much time and many Christmas activites yet to do on my list.

So, Dear Readers, it's time to get our sled on the road. (DH is tapping his foot) I want to wish each of you the Merriest Christmas. I do wish blessings on all of you and your loved ones. Stay safe, stay warm.

More Photos & Stash!

2009-12-16T17:23:00.001-08:00

Isn't this wire basket lovely? I found it in a little shop near hear. I can just imagine fabric or a small quilt spilling out of it. Maybe I'll get it hung this week-end!

My friend, Jan (my long-arm quilter) brought me this darling tea cozy pattern from her latest trip. She's so sweet! Think I'll make one for each of us!

Tracy Horner of Ink Circles was at our last stitching get-together and brought copies of this year's and last year's ornaments for us. Aren't they beautiful? She's soooo talented! Sure wish I had more stitching time!

I'm joining in on the Prairie Schooler ABCs SAL next year. I got a great deal on these charts from Nancy in Florida. She was selling some of her stash and I was lucky enough to get a chance to get them all at once.

These two photos are of stash I purchased from my friend, Jeanie's shop. She was running a special, now who can resist a special? Besides, she gives a portion of each sale to charity.
I had to have these Prairie Schooler charts, Weather Wise and Farmer's Almanac. My Dad used to say these old saying all the time. They make me smile and think of him. A very good reason to stitch these for my home.

I just love Sue Hillis' Designs and this Spool Tree is just too fun! Erica Michaels has charted some beautiful sayings lately & this is one of my favorites. And, of course, Diane Williams of Little House Needleworks is one of my favorite designers ever. I'm taking part in a SAL for The Travelling Stitcher in January.

Lots of Photos!

2009-12-15T19:55:00.000-08:00

I've finally got some photos to show you. I'm not too slow for you, am I? My camera's not the greatest for close ups so some of these aren't terribly clear.

This is the piece I completed the other day. The coloring doesn't show true here. It was a mystery on the German Marquoir group. It's done on a miscellaneous piece of linen in DMC flosses.

Here is the baseball quilt I made for my 10 y.o. grandson, Alex. I chose the diamond pattern to represent a baseball diamond. I think it's a little on the busy side.

Now the back I love, love, love! Notice I had a specially made label for the corner.

This is The Button Tree by The Drawn Thread that I'd mentioned in my last post. Isn't it too darling? I may even do one with colored buttons too.

These are the other three charts I got from Sonda besides The Button Tree.

Now I want to show you some goodies I recently aquired. These are antique spools. Aren't they lovely. I spent a bit more than I had planned to but I just HAD to have them. I wanted to buy just a few (how could I decide!!) but they wouldn't split the lot.

Well, DH says it's way past bedtime. Think I'll take the hint. More photos tomorrow! Don't worry, it will be tomorrow cuz' the photos have already been taken. Nighty night!

Out Of Touch! We Have A Winner!

2009-12-10T13:27:00.000-08:00

So sorry I've been out of touch for so long again. I've caught 'the crud'. You know, the headachy, runny nose, congested, sore throat kind. Yup, and this mornin' I added another symptom we won't discuss here.

I have however finished a cross stitch piece and a quilt. No photos yet but hopefully I can get some this afternoon. Check back for my next post if you're interested.

I have some unfinished business to take care of too. Back on November 28th I offered up a giveaway. In the rush and stumble of my life I failed to announce the winner. Since there were only six entries I've had DH sing out a number. ONE, yes number one! That's Andie in New Zealand! Congratulations Andie!

The mailman has brought me several goodies lately.
I bought some charts from Sonda's For Sale list. I've met Sonda at our bi-monthly stitching get-togethers. She's a kick!
1. CCN Holly & Ivy Sampler
2. HIH 2009 Collector's Heart
3. Drawn Thread The Button Tree
and she sent me the JBW Designs Blessings chart for free

My name was on the list for several charts by Martina Dey of Stickideen von der Weihenburg. When it came down to my pocketbook I could only afford one right now. So I chose Rose Quaker. The mailman brought Christmas Quaker Bellpull. It's lovely and I'll keep it, but, I was so very disappointed. These charts come from Germany so it just wouldn't be cost effective to return it. I'll buy Rose Quaker later when I can rub two nickles together again.

I know there's more but my foggy mind just isn't working at full speed right now. I've been very generous with myself while I've been doing my Christmas shopping this year. Bought myself both Andrea Boclli's 'My Christmas' and Susan Boyle's 'I Dreamed A Dream' CDs. Also DVD's 'The Sisterhood ot the Traveling Pants' and 'Two Weeks Notice'. I'm really going to enjoy these while I stitch!

I belong to the PaperBackSwap . It's a really great group and I save lots of money on my books. I've recently received three of Monica Ferris' Needlecraft Mystery Series: 'A Stitch In Time', 'Framed In Lace', and 'Crewel World'. I also got Debbie macomber's 'Fairy Tale Weddings' and Clive Cussler's 'Arctic Drift'. The last two are new in paperback and I'm so excited!!!

Well, I'm going to go try to get those photos now. Plus all the other little things like laundry that need to get done whether I'm sick or not. Oh, BTW, it's been in the -20F degrees here and we were without water for several days. Hence the scurry to catch up on chores. At least we haven't lost power yet this season!

'Tis The Season Of Giving!

2009-12-02T19:13:00.000-08:00

"Where Women Create" is having 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways! Each day starting December 1 to December 12 there will be a different giveaway.

And today also starts the SewMamaSew Giveaway. Giveaway Day kicks off a Season of Giving. There are so many lovely blogs to visit. These giveaways stay open through Sunday, December 6.

So lets have fun and start visiting. Surely there'll be something that catches your eye! I love to see what other people create. This is a great opportunity to get to know so many crafty people. There is inspriation abounding out there!

This isn't the first time I've told you about Geta's giveaways. She's got another stunning piece for this month! Check it out!

Post Thanksgiving and Another Giveaway!

2009-12-01T13:27:00.000-08:00

I do hope all my readers in the US had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Ours was special though very quiet as none of the grands was able to attend. My Cranberry Pecan Pie was a big hit. I've made my soup and a Shepherd's Pie, a must whenever I cook a turkey. Also, the Christmas decorating of the house was completed before everyone arrived. They were surprised but understood my crazy reasoning.

Our youngest & wife had to leave late Thanksgiving evening (she works retail). It was just going to be guys sitting around watching football the rest of the weekend. I took off Friday morning for Portland with some friends. No "Black Friday" shopping for us! Deb & Roy of Desert Rock & Gem invited me to be their guest at a Gem & Bead Show. Woo hoo! I was so overwhelmed! Next time I hope to have more spare cash and a list of goodies I NEED. We had sooo much fun!

I know what you're saying. Another giveaway! This one is very well worth your time checking out. Rebecca is giving away the most lovely Christmas pillow. Please take a moment to browse through her blog as it has so many lovely things to view particularly if you like vintage, romantic and PINK!

More Giveaways!

2009-11-28T08:55:00.000-08:00

You've got to see this! Judith is giving away one of her most beautiful L&L finishes, Angel of Summer! Look at the fabric she's stitched on! She's gotta be outta her mind! Her stitching is soooo beautiful. And while you're checking that out look at all her gorgeous quilting. Such a talented lady!!!

Now, for my giveaway! Very small by comparison! I love this piece, Be True! I love Little House Needleworks! Just leave a comment on this post. As a special thanks to the followers of this blog you'll get an extra chance in the draw.

Thanksgiving Blessings To You All!

2009-11-23T23:46:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! May God's blessings be with you all.

I am so very thankful for so many people and things in my life. I am so blessed! I've been reflecting on this today as I have a quiet day before our "troops" arrive. It would take me pages and pages to write it all down. But, I would like to share a few thoughts here.

In the past I had my parents and grandparents, aunts and uncles. I still have many cousins and immediate family, though some of them are gone too. All are dear and have blessed me and influenced me to be the person I am today.

I've also had two wonderful mothers-in-law. My first husband and his family. All gone now but forever in my heart.

My dear husband, Jim, and his boys and step-mom have embraced me and made me one of their own. Even his cousins treat me like a sister. What more could I ask for?

God has blessed us with three beautiful grandchildren, Erica, Alex and Tyler. They delight me and I am so thankful for their health and exuberence. Shouldn't we be allowed to bottle some of that for when we grow older?

I've reflected upon my marriage vows today. For better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness & health. These are important words to me! I meant them when I said them and they ring true today still!

I am so thankful for my faith and my friends. Yes, internet friends too! God has blessed me richly. I pray that I can be a good and faithful servant. A caring friend. I'm working on keeping a thankful spirit through joys and sorrows (mine and my friends').

God has given us a bounty of richness. I think of so many with so little in worldly goods yet they have such rich hearts. I think of all our service people, separated from their families. All their families preparing for the holidays without a loved one near. I pray for their safety and am thankful for their enduring service to our country.

I pray for our president and elected officials. May they serve the people of this country faithfully and reach out to God in prayer and conscience.

I wish all my dear readers a bountiful Thanksgiving celebration. And as my dad would say "keep it short, the food's getting cold".

BTW, my dried cranberries turned out delicious! Not as pretty as CRAISINS but so much more healthy. And thank you Tracy for the wonderful Cranberry-Pecan Pie recipe. I found it on-line.

Oh, She's Been Bitten!

2009-11-23T12:36:00.000-08:00

I've been so busy! I've really been bitten by the holiday bug! Christmas spirit! Whatever you want ot call it.

We'll be having Thanksgiving here this year (a first). A small crowd and that's just fine by me. This is the first year I've been home for Thanksgiving. Traditionally I spend this time visiting my grand-daughter, Erica. Well, I went to Erica's in October this year. Hence, I'm home and that means I'm here early enough to bother putting up a tree (haven't done that in eons 'cause we're never here). Soooo, guess who's already put up her small tree? Yep! I'm excited! Got that spirit! I have a four-foot pre-lit table-top. Not much room for more but I have enough ornaments to do two trees. Some of my ornaments are kept in boxes prewraped to look like presents. That way it looks like I have lots of gifts under the tree already. I also found a perfect two-foot, wrought iron, tree-shaped ornament holder. I put most of the smaller ornaments on it & placed it in our bedroom. Sooooo, I'm all decorated except for changing out the art on the walls. I have some beautiful prints that I hang. Gotta get under the bed for those today! Yes, I've already put boughs along my porch railing and a wreath on the door. My neighbors know!

While in Alabama I shipped home LOTS of fresh pecans. I love them for snacking and baking. Soooo, I've made candied pecans. Yummy! Wish I could share some with you.

At last week's Hero Quilters' get-together one of the girls brought TONS of fresh cranberries. I brought A LOT home. Today I have been a-cranberrying (is that a word?). Frozen cranberries for later. Dried cranberries (these are great snacks). Cranberry sauce for our turkey dinner. I still have a batch in the sink with a yet to be determined use. I want to make cranberry pecan muffins. Maybe take some of those to Jim's step-mom (she's in assisted living). Aren't these beauties?

Geta's Quilting Studio

2009-11-21T13:03:00.000-08:00

I meant to post about this for you earlier but, of course, I was distracted. Check this out! Geta is having the most beautiful giveaway and it would look perfect on my table. She has such a great blog with tutorials and "ahem" a monthly giveaway.

Did You Miss Me?

2009-11-20T20:20:00.000-08:00

Yes, I've been out of touch all week but not because I was having loads of fun. My computer caught a virus! I doubt it was H1N1, but who knows! So, we're back in business now and rarin' to go.

Last week-end was the Northwest Stitchers get-together in Portland. Oh Oh Oh we had soooo much fun! A stunning display of finishes! Wonderful food (thank you Vicki, Donna & Randy). Loads of laughter! Stash buying and of course, lots of stitching. I have a standing bed reservation with Vicki. Ten of us spent the night and be sure, not everyone got beds.

Tracy of Ink Circles was there & I got her new ornament "Reindeer Games" as well as last year's ornament. Tracy's daughter, Hannah, and her mom, Cindy were there too. Such fun gals!

I stitched a bit on my Heritage Sampler, my Herz von Inge from Marquoir, and another reindeer ornament. Will I ever finish anything? I'm the Queen Of Starts!

I've been working a bit each evening on the Heritage Sampler. You'd think I'd want to finish some of these ornaments. Nope! I shall remain ornament finishing challenged this year. I'd better start learning and experimenting soon. I've joined two ornament groups for next year. The Bride's Tree and The Little House Needleworks. Yikes!

Well folks, this posting is going to remain photoless. I'm too tired to bother. Have been on here most of the day trying to catch up, etc. Hope you're all getting ready for Thanksgiving. We have so much to be thankful for. Bye for now...

I'm Outta Here! Again!

2009-11-13T10:01:00.000-08:00

Just a quick note before I'm out the door. DH says "AGAIN"! Yes, this is my stitching week-end in Portland with the NWcrossstitchers Yahoo group. We gather for stitching, sharing, shopping, eating and of course, laughter, lots of laughter, about every other month. I so look forward to these GTGs.
I'm driving over with my friend Pat. She's got studded tires on her car! Good girl! It's been snowing all morning on our mountain. She's a bit lower & hasn't any snow today but we both got it yesterday. I'm certain we'll see plenty in the pass. I'll say a little prayer before we go.
On the stitching front... nothing to show. I've been working on a baseball quilt for my eldest grandson, Alex (10), for Christmas. I need to get this to the quilter sooooon! And wouldn't you know it! I've run short on the backing fabric. Miscalculation seems to be my lot lately. Hopefully we'll have time to hit a fabric store this week-end.
TTFN (ta ta for now)

A Finish Finish!

2009-11-09T12:58:00.000-08:00

Yep! I actually finished an ornie! And, I made my first biscornu!

TaDa! Here it is! Now, since it's my first biscornu and the thing is only an inch & an half in size, I think I did pretty good. It's a freebie I showed you
earlier by Sharon Manspeaker of xstitchhappy.com . It will go into my Christmas goodie box that I send to my grand daughter, Erica, every year.

Another Ornie!

2009-11-05T08:24:00.000-08:00

I finished the beading on the ornies I showed you earlier. The tree on red fabric is stunning. Unfortunately the photo doesn't do it justice. Will try for another shot when the lighting is better.

Also finished this one, JOY, a freebie by VeeandCo. Another lousy photo, but what the heck! Seems to be my lot today!

More Stash Enhancement!!!

2009-11-04T00:12:00.000-08:00

These are the previously mentioned Santa charts I was gifted by Glenda. Aren't they fun?
Four new charts by Little House Needleworks. I want all of Diane's charts!!! The Library includes the flosses.

Jeanette Douglas Designs Sunshine State Sampler

I can't go to a LNS without buying some linens. Isn't that red stunning? Not a Christmas red at all!

And then some basics I picked up just to pad the stash. Two linens and two Monacos.

Tomorrow, Tomorrow...

2009-11-01T19:28:00.000-08:00

As you can tell, I didn't get back "tomorrow". Life gets in the way, as usual. I had a doctor's appointment which turned into a grocery/errands day. Saturday was a total waste. Maybe not, I laid in bed 'til noon reading. Then I spent hours getting caught up on emails and blogs. Today I was sorting a bit in the sewing room.

***** Warning ******* Warning ******* Warning *****

This next section will be photo heavy!

First, stitching I did while away. None of them are finished. Some are true WIPs. A few still need beads.

Quaker-Style Scissors Fob by Sharon Manspeaker. A freebie on xstitchhappy.com. This will become an ornament for my grand daughter's tree.

This little freebie tree was found at ricamoletueidee.it. Lots of beading will make it stunning.

This reindeer freebie from DaffyCat Designs needs a few beads around his neck.

A freebie from Kreinik for Tokens & Trifles

From Our House To Yours a freebie by Tokens & Trifles.

Dare To Dream a freebie by Tokens & Trifles.

I started this ages ago & finally finished it with a few changes to my liking. It's by San-Man Originals.

This little guy is from a page out of a DMC Favourites magazine. No idea of the issue or by whom!! But he'll make a cute ornament.

This is my Spanish Sampler Mystery by Periphaeria Designs. I'm way behind but I did finish section 3A and start section 3B.

Next is some sewing I did just before leaving town.

This is a tote I made especially to carry my stitching that is on a frame, my largest frame (barely fits in my suitcase). Now I need to make some smaller sizes.

These 3 photos are of a large stitching tote in progress. It has big pockets left & right that can hold q-snaps and charts. There are small pockets for acessories too.

That's all for tonight! Whew, are you as tired as I am? Next post (I won't say "tomorrow" again) I'll show some of my new stash.

Whew! I'm Home!

2009-10-29T19:29:00.000-07:00

Oh my! Where do I start? I haven't got any photos ready to show you so I'll try to keep this short & add pics tomorrow.

Unpacking. Check. Linens changed. Check. Laundry. Check. Plants watered. Check. Some cleaning. Check. I'm exhausted! There's always so much to do when DH has been on his own for three weeks.

My stitching room looks like a disaster area. I did manage to acquire some stash and a few special goodies. I also managed to stitch a few small pieces and worked on one BAP. Tomorrow I'm going to attempt to spend some time in there.

The mail has been sorted (DH doesn't do anything but pile it on my desk while I'm gone. Bill paying phobia I think!) There were several surprises for me. My last Quilt of Valor returned from the quilter. A wish from my wishlist was granted. I was gifted some really cute Santa charts.

I had also mailed home several boxes to myself. (so much cheaper than paying for another suitcase) I went a bit overboard shopping for new clothes. Some of you may know that I have lost over 50 pounds this year. The clothes were a necessity and there were so many wonderful shopping opportunities.

Now, this is a great story: After I had checked my bag at the airport a thought occurred to me. I could hardly lift that bag! Thank heavens it has wheels! ZAP!! I had lost more weight than that bag weighed. I was happy dancing all over the place! I can't imagine how I had ever carried all that extra weight on my bones.

On that note, I'm going to say good night. Time to go sit with DH & stitch while he watches the tube. Photos and more tomorrow...

Lots of Giveaways!!

2009-10-28T19:07:00.000-07:00

I'm a lover and collector of designer teddy bears. Ginger @ bearbits is haveing a Silver Anniversary giveaway. Please go meet Miss Noelle Kringle (but she's mine!).

You'll love this by Jolene at Dip Diddly Designs

April at Itching 2 Stitch has this wonderful giveaway.

Becky Bee's Stitching Hive has the most delicious hand-dyed fabrics and a giveaway.

Now, if you like embroidery you'll love Robin's giveaway.

Check out the amazing quilting and a giveaway at Geta's blog.

Calling All Quilters!!!

2009-10-25T11:20:00.000-07:00

Man, you gotta see the awesome giveaway at Pumpkin Patch Primitives Quilt Shoppe!

2009-10-21T09:05:00.000-07:00

Check out Kathy's blog for a great Blogoversary giveaway!!

Checking in from Alabama...

2009-10-18T09:35:00.000-07:00

I had super easy flights down here! Easy connections, minimum waiting times and all flights were ON TIME! That's what I like!!

Erica & I are alone now. The parents left last Thursday for Key West, FL (their new duty station). I met her new room mate last night. The girls fixed dinner for us and we had a great gab fest. I know they'll do fine when I'm gone. Lauren will move in next week. That means I get upgraded to the "Parental Suite".

I've taken Erica's car several times when she's had to work. Yesterday I went out to find the local needlework shop, Ami's. Oh drat! She's gone out of business! I hate to see LNSs go under. Besides, I had planned to do some serious shopping there. Guess I'll have to venture over to Pensacola. I had numbers for three shops there and only one still has a functioning telephone. Come on Gulf Coast stitchers! Support your LNSs!!

Now, if that didn't frost my cake! The local quilt shop has also gone out of business! Whew! What's a girl to do? I HAD to go to the outlet mall for some retail therapy! I HAD to!! (I also went for a walk on the beach at Gulf Shores!!)

I had so wanted to try my hand at dying fabric while I am here. Guess I'll have to haunt Michaels and Joanne to see what I can find. I'll probably never find linen!

So, for now I'll leave you with a photo of my lovely grand daughter, Erica, and her boyfriend, Josh.

Just one more post before I go!!

2009-10-04T16:15:00.000-07:00

Yipee! First snow of the season! We awoke this morning to several inches of snow! It started snowing yesterday but didn't look like it would stick. Today it's covering everything! I'm very sure it won't affect my flight as the airport is quite a bit farther down the mountains from us. Just an inconvenience! It's finally stopped and I'm praying for a warming trend! Not likely by the looks of the sky!

And now, on the stitching front! I have a photo of a WIP: the first part of the Christmas SAL from the Marquoir group. This SAL is an exclusive to the group from Tam's Creations.

And She's Off !!!

2009-10-03T18:46:00.000-07:00

So sorry I haven't been around to update lately. I'm running around like crazy, trying to get everything ready to leave. DH will be baching it with the pets (and some things just MUST be done or they won't get done). I'm going to visit our grand daughter in Alabama for three weeks. I'm sooooo excited!

I have been trying to stitch a bit everyday. Sorry again, no photos! And I will be taking ample stitching with me. (there is at least one LNS that I know of Yipee!)

WARNING! WARNING! WARNING!
I guess this is a good time to warn you that I will only have limited internet access and may not be updating too frequently. Not to worry! I'll fill you in with loads of photos when I return.

Bye Bye!

From My Wish List

2009-09-30T01:15:00.000-07:00

Sandra is having a giveaway of The Travelling Stitcher by Little House Needleworks. This has been on my wish list for ever so long. Please, please, please, Sandra, pick me!!!

Oh My Aching Back!!!

2009-09-27T23:42:00.000-07:00

A few days ago DH talked me into taking a "little" ride on the ATV with him (it's a Polaris RZR, a side-by-side) and some friends, John & Emily. We were going to ride some trails J&E use for snowmobiling.

Now, I'm not a big fan of ATVs. I enjoy an occasional ride on the sand dunes at the coast. But mostly, no. In my wildest dreams, even when I was younger, I never imagined myself riding an ATV. This so-called "little" ride took over FIVE hours!! And it was on lava rock!! Do you know how rough lava rock is? We ended up doing quite a bit of "rock crawling". Have you ever seen them do that on TV? I have, and it scared the willies outta me. In person, it's worse!

J&E had never done this route except in snow. They hadn't a clue what was beneath (I give them the benefit of the doubt here). DH had no idea it would take so long. He gives me a "thumbs up" for being a good sport.

The scenery was stunning (of course, I forgot a camera)! The weather was perfect! We got to the top of the lava butte (they're called mountains, for pity sakes!). About that time I started wilting. Then we had to go back down! Argh!

Now, my back isn't good by any stretch of the word. I'm usually pretty careful. Whatever made me throw caution to the wind this time? I dunno! My lower back fared the best, it was fairly well braced. My mid back feels like it's broken! My neck aches 'cause my head was bouncing around like a bobble-head doll. Guess I'm paying the price for FIVE hours of folly!

This is a photo I took last year when we rode the ski lift up the mountain. Pretty huh?

I Won!!

2009-09-25T11:58:00.000-07:00

Some time ago I purchased several tickets in a raffle. First prize was a beautiful quilt. There were several other prizes of which I didn't pay too close attention to as I never really expected to win and it was for charity so I would've bought the tickets anyways. I didn't win the quilt. I was, however, fortunate enough to win one of the other prizes, this lovely pillow! Isn't it gorgeous? It looks like a Prairie Schooler design but I can't find which one. Anyone got any clues? I love the fabric too even if it wouldn't have been my first choice. All in all, I'm very pleased!!

Over The Week-End

2009-09-21T14:04:00.000-07:00

I was away over the week-end! Oh joy! I was at another stitcher's get-together at Vicki's near Portland. The weather was perfect! The stitchers at riot! The food plentiful and yummy! Thank you Vicki, Randy and Donna for providing such a wonderful week-end!

For those of you not in the Northwest, these GTG's happen every-other month. Gals come from all over. Usually we have a designer or two or three. There are always freebies and often charts and flosses for sale. Randy's pool table is turned into a showcase of finishes. But, the best part is always the stitchers. In every room! It's often difficult to stay seated 'cuz I NEED to check out what everyone is working on. I almost always get more stitching done here than at home just because it's unlimited, uninterrupted stitching time.

Esther had fabrics for sale at ridiculous prices. Had to get me some! Lynda had her entire line of charts with her. Got some more! Made a side trip to Acorns & Threads for a chart and ended up with several linens and a half dozen charts. (Who could'a predicted that?)

Other side trips I HAD to make were at Michael's, Joanne's and the Crafter's Warehouse. And yes, I did pick up a few things that weren't exactly stitching related, but, then again, maybe they are in an indirect fashion.

My stitching progress:
I was able to find a GAST floss that I think will work so I can finish my "Rememberance" piece. Whew!
Started Prairie Schooler's Country Wise
Started Heritage Sampler band 1 from Aury's SAL

Unfortunately, none are far enough along to photograph. Sorry!

And to leave you on a bright note: I received my copy of JCS 2009 Christmas Ornament Issue while I was away.

Backing Up A Bit

2009-09-17T21:27:00.000-07:00

Last week I was AWOL for a few days while I attended a women's retreat. This is an annual event that I'm honored to attend. It is for the elder women and wives of the elder men (me) of the Coos Indian Tribe. DH is an elder. I get to spend time with a bunch of cousin's-in-law and for the first time, one of DH's nieces. What a riotous crew we are. This year the accomodations were at the tribe's new casino hotel in Florence, Oregon. Very nice! We learned some beading techniques and made a small purse. We also learned to make some natural products like soap, lotion and oils. The soap was fun, using little molds and scents and dyes. NO, we didn't spend all our time at the casino... we crafted in a yurt at a state park!

Over the week-end I had a birthday. Now, we don't usually make a big to-do about them around here. So DH took me to dinner at The Outback (my choice). The next morning he fixed me steak & eggs for breakfast. Nummy! No presents... oh wait... that's a bit of a story.

I had been hinting (not so subtly) about a sewing machine I wanted for my birthday for over six months. Several weeks ago DH & I were at Home Depot for some reason I can't remember. I always wander in the appliances as I've wanted new ones since we bought this house almost five yeas ago. Sigh! Mr. Wonderful says "would you rather have your refrigerator than the sewing machine?". Now, who could turn down that deal? Nobody in their right mind. Right? Well, before we get out the door I have a stove and dishwasher too! So, that's what I got for my birthday/Christmas present. You didn't think I was getting the stove and dishwasher as a bonus did you? I'm easy! I'm happy!