tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80723806308907453122024-03-14T02:52:57.300-04:00Stitch 'N TimeTerihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-6006206739166422502016-01-01T14:26:00.002-05:002016-01-01T15:12:55.370-05:00It's 2016!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NQikuoug8io/VobQjqjs4PI/AAAAAAAAAeE/mcBHFgsXvMM/s1600/TJL_4623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NQikuoug8io/VobQjqjs4PI/AAAAAAAAAeE/mcBHFgsXvMM/s400/TJL_4623.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
No new year's resolutions or promises for posts, but best wishes to all for a <i>Happy New Year</i> and <i>Peace</i>. I have a couple of projects underway, one about to start, and creative energy that I've not had in awhile. My thanks, as always, to those of you who continue to blog and share your works with the rest of us. You are both motivating and inspiring. May all your open doors lead to wonderful experiences this coming year!<br />
<br />Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-62053936902323841552012-01-01T20:44:00.008-05:002012-01-01T21:58:53.206-05:00Happy New Year!Just dropping by to wish everyone a happy and healthy new year!<br /><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CIkvmM3xd9c/TwEQfUO5vnI/AAAAAAAAAc4/eXGTjsCYOyg/s1600/DSCN2393.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CIkvmM3xd9c/TwEQfUO5vnI/AAAAAAAAAc4/eXGTjsCYOyg/s400/DSCN2393.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692849534166220402" border="0" /></a>I'm still around, but 2011 was more about work and family than free time for crafting. Years have "themes" like that, don't they? My heartfelt "thanks" to those of you who visited my blog last year and left such kind comments about the restored needlework. I'm also <i>very</i> thankful for those of you who continue to blog and share your life and creative work. You are such an inspiration!<br /><br /></div><div> </div><div>A friend's first grand baby has inspired a baby afghan, so that's the only project I have to share at the moment. I'm just a "wee" bit behind, as baby arrived right on time in November. No surprise to anyone who knows me that the timing has worked this way. I'm thankful for family and friends who love me anyway. Here's just one pic for the proof that I've at least been working on something creative!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kcSXWqkA0xw/TwEWBDCtvhI/AAAAAAAAAdE/O7sAIQRhbrA/s1600/DSCN2509.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kcSXWqkA0xw/TwEWBDCtvhI/AAAAAAAAAdE/O7sAIQRhbrA/s400/DSCN2509.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692855611225390610" border="0" /></a>I'm enjoying the basket weave, but I've only found time to work on this one while out of town. Now that it's January, I'm going to have to learn to stay home and knit!<br /><br />As for new year's resolutions, I'll make just one as far as this little corner of my world is concerned: to post twice as many times in 2012 as I did in 2011. Almost there!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KK07KB600_w/TwEXbRj5O0I/AAAAAAAAAdQ/Oid25t2AOt4/s1600/DSCN2453.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KK07KB600_w/TwEXbRj5O0I/AAAAAAAAAdQ/Oid25t2AOt4/s400/DSCN2453.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692857161310878530" border="0" /></a>Again, hugs and a "Happy New Year" to all. May 2012 bring love and peace.<br /></div><div><br /><div><br /></div></div>Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-25201162547298558462011-01-23T17:40:00.012-05:002011-01-23T18:16:14.743-05:00It's a New Year!Not only is it a new year, but it's going to be a new month if I don't get busy and finally post something! Hope everyone had an enjoyable holiday season. As for me, my winter decorations are still up from <i>last</i> year! Nothing like staying ahead of the game. Still, all has been well on my end, and I've had plenty of fun and travel to make up for the lack of crafting and posting.<div><br /></div><div>However, I <i>did</i> have my rescued cross-stitched piece framed last summer, so I wanted to share the finished piece here.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TTywmVBJOHI/AAAAAAAAAcI/8Rorh2h2Qt0/s1600/DSC_8213.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TTywmVBJOHI/AAAAAAAAAcI/8Rorh2h2Qt0/s400/DSC_8213.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565517412046551154" border="0" /></a>Most of my framed cross stitch hangs in my dining room, so that's where this piece landed as well. I like the vintage look, the natural linen, and the black design, mat, and frame. The next picture is not the best in terms of angle, etc., but you get a better idea of what the restored piece looks like.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TTywxWIiCFI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/io5QlSgmGMo/s1600/DSC_8220.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TTywxWIiCFI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/io5QlSgmGMo/s400/DSC_8220.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565517601324533842" border="0" /></a>I think it's an improvement over the damaged original.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TTyzeawEhPI/AAAAAAAAAcg/adWfrz6simA/s1600/DSC_4565.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TTyzeawEhPI/AAAAAAAAAcg/adWfrz6simA/s400/DSC_4565.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565520574681482482" border="0" /></a>Here's a detail shot of the simple black frame and mat.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TTyw51aK6iI/AAAAAAAAAcY/TvVAtIHYvYI/s1600/DSC_8225.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TTyw51aK6iI/AAAAAAAAAcY/TvVAtIHYvYI/s400/DSC_8225.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565517747158968866" border="0" /></a>If my memory serves, this is the first piece of cross stitch that I've rescued. But it's not my last! I found another piece in an antique mall over the Christmas holidays. That piece has a couple of stories to tell, so I'll share pictures and those tales in another post. And, who knows, I may be on to something here. More shopping and rescuing may lead to less crafting on my end, but more pictures and postings here! <br /><br />Enjoy the rest of January 2011 while it lasts!<br /></div>Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-62268642969435440832010-08-21T10:26:00.013-04:002010-08-21T11:12:00.118-04:00She Squandered MillionsI took my stitched carriage couple piece apart and took it to the framers (say that 10 times fast). Here's a behind the scenes look with at least one clue to the time period.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TG_kB9UB8cI/AAAAAAAAAbM/DeMyCzortqE/s1600/DSC_5136.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TG_kB9UB8cI/AAAAAAAAAbM/DeMyCzortqE/s400/DSC_5136.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507871591586984386" border="0" /></a>The age around the mat is easy to see once I removed the frame.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TG_kO-hoUMI/AAAAAAAAAbU/yK6Be-fCOT8/s1600/DSC_5137.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TG_kO-hoUMI/AAAAAAAAAbU/yK6Be-fCOT8/s400/DSC_5137.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507871815250759874" border="0" /></a>As expected, the linen was laid flat.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TG_kac0IN6I/AAAAAAAAAbc/yCc-Ki27yDg/s1600/DSC_5138.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TG_kac0IN6I/AAAAAAAAAbc/yCc-Ki27yDg/s400/DSC_5138.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507872012359972770" border="0" /></a>I had wondered about the dark color peeking through the lace openings. There was a partial label in the center that indicated an 8"x10" opening. Looks like this came with the frame, but it's a very thin, slick piece. Not sure what this layer is made of. Not paper. About the thickness of carbon paper. Any ideas?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TG_kijexMtI/AAAAAAAAAbk/aT7z79qyqE8/s1600/DSC_5139.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TG_kijexMtI/AAAAAAAAAbk/aT7z79qyqE8/s400/DSC_5139.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507872151588385490" border="0" /></a>The best clue, though, was awaiting. I had to laugh when I got to this final layer. This colorful piece was the back piece of cardboard.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TG_kp8We_AI/AAAAAAAAAbs/7hFjxt188QE/s1600/DSC_5140.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TG_kp8We_AI/AAAAAAAAAbs/7hFjxt188QE/s400/DSC_5140.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507872278523608066" border="0" /></a>I was so impressed and surprised by how beautiful and well-preserved this final layer is. The colors are so pretty. Looks like this backing was cut from a larger movie (?) poster. Any ideas? It was certainly fun to peel back time and end with such a surprise. But more importantly...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TG_kzVVPLaI/AAAAAAAAAb0/h_wDvzo7VE0/s1600/DSC_5141.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 363px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TG_kzVVPLaI/AAAAAAAAAb0/h_wDvzo7VE0/s400/DSC_5141.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5507872439848086946" border="0" /></a>I laughed out loud when I read the text. Was the original framer the cross stitcher? The cross stitcher's husband? Was the humor intentional? Regardless, the message certainly endures across the years!Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-40525510078124902262010-07-03T08:53:00.014-04:002010-07-03T09:36:36.619-04:00I've Not Been Stitching, But...I have a confession to make. I've not been stitching, but I have been shopping!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TC8zRt5894I/AAAAAAAAAak/55fxCcrO26E/s1600/DSC_4565.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TC8zRt5894I/AAAAAAAAAak/55fxCcrO26E/s400/DSC_4565.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489662850261383042" border="0" /></a>Each year, my sister and I meet in Springfield, OH for a BIG antique show and flea market. I say "big," because out of all the years we've been going, I've only made it to all the vendor areas once - and that's over a three-day period! This year, I got lucky and found an affordable cross-stitched piece that was looking for a good home.<br /><br />I've seen a number of similar pieces, but none completed on a piece of linen like this with what reminds me of Battenburg lace around its edges.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TC8zcPAwvrI/AAAAAAAAAas/lCfXx9tp1k8/s1600/DSC_4570.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 312px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TC8zcPAwvrI/AAAAAAAAAas/lCfXx9tp1k8/s400/DSC_4570.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489663030947004082" border="0" /></a>This looks to have been a stamped design. The stitching is fairly well executed compared to the other pieces I've seen. But I didn't notice the faint marks of a stamped design until I imported my photos. The other stitched pieces I've seen of this nature have a similar horse and carriage theme, and they've all been completed with black floss. I did a quick Google search to see if I could locate any information on the pattern or the time period. Do you know anything about these designs? What do you think - something from the 1950s or '60s? I'd be interested in finding out more.<br /><br />There <span style="font-style: italic;">is</span> a bit of water damage on the bottom of the mat. And the frame is literally falling apart.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TC8zlSaxqrI/AAAAAAAAAa0/jO1ci1RuOgc/s1600/DSC_4572.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TC8zlSaxqrI/AAAAAAAAAa0/jO1ci1RuOgc/s400/DSC_4572.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489663186480245426" border="0" /></a>You can see the linen peaking out from the back edges, so I'm guessing the fabric was just laid flat in the frame.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TC8zsnMssLI/AAAAAAAAAa8/SJfN2qk7J7o/s1600/DSC_4573.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TC8zsnMssLI/AAAAAAAAAa8/SJfN2qk7J7o/s400/DSC_4573.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489663312317427890" border="0" /></a>This one will be going to the framers so that it can be properly conserved. After that, I have just the place for it!<br /><br />And, "what," you may ask, "does a long day/weekend at the Springfield show look like?" Like this closing photo of course!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TC80r_RqMsI/AAAAAAAAAbE/l0mSvrlTaH8/s1600/DSCN5170.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/TC80r_RqMsI/AAAAAAAAAbE/l0mSvrlTaH8/s400/DSCN5170.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489664401112445634" border="0" /></a>I certainly don't know where the days go, but here's to a fun summer and a great holiday weekend!Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-65374757797191847392010-02-14T08:06:00.008-05:002010-02-14T08:20:03.089-05:00Love SpringsI know we've all heard that "love springs eternal," but for those of us surrounded by snow, sometimes we need a reminder. I spent yesterday at a conservatory and was reminded that spring <span style="font-style: italic;">is</span> on its way.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S3f35Iqq0OI/AAAAAAAAAaU/szD8RkR1xbQ/s1600-h/DSC_1621.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S3f35Iqq0OI/AAAAAAAAAaU/szD8RkR1xbQ/s400/DSC_1621.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438087636024217826" border="0" /></a>Happy Valentine's Day!Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-18884758525688762172010-01-31T13:29:00.012-05:002010-01-31T14:04:16.898-05:00An Itsy Bit of EtsyNow that I'm "caught up" on my weaving posts, I'll return to the stitching front.<br /><br />Last week I noticed that Beth Twist of <a href="http://thetwistfamily.blogspot.com/">Heartstring Samplery</a> had posted a new design to her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/heartstringsamplery">Etsy shop</a>. I fell in love with the border patterns and the sentiment. Such a perfect design for this time of the year! I love the touch of red in the hearts.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S2XSxQR5JEI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/tgAf-8tA2KE/s1600-h/DSC_1500.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S2XSxQR5JEI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/tgAf-8tA2KE/s400/DSC_1500.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5432980269117809730" border="0" /></a>I also noticed that <a href="http://kathybarrick.blogspot.com/">Kathy Barrick</a> had also added a number of "old" patterns to her <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/kathybarrick">Etsy shop</a> that I needed to add to my collection.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S2XS3BQamlI/AAAAAAAAAaE/7T_R39Eo4Ys/s1600-h/DSC_1501.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S2XS3BQamlI/AAAAAAAAAaE/7T_R39Eo4Ys/s400/DSC_1501.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5432980368164297298" border="0" /></a>I ordered patterns on the same day, and they all arrived on the same day just a few days later. Fast service! I certainly have new motivation to keep stitching!<br /><br />As for the little bit of stitching I've done of late, I have just one little motif, in progress, to show from the Mary Wigham sampler. It's been awhile since I've worked on white linen, so I've had to take my time on this one and rip out a few atitches along the way. That's ok. I enjoy the process as much as anything, so the slow go is fine by me.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S2XS8s7s64I/AAAAAAAAAaM/vqLbyakQPKs/s1600-h/DSC_1511.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S2XS8s7s64I/AAAAAAAAAaM/vqLbyakQPKs/s400/DSC_1511.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5432980465787923330" border="0" /></a>Hope you are staying warm wherever you may be and enjoying the day!Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-16887718077395923912010-01-23T09:56:00.024-05:002015-02-09T20:12:21.421-05:00I Know It's 2010, But...<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S1sUHk8Gh3I/AAAAAAAAAZU/hsy0maU4Yuo/s1600-h/DSCN5614.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S1sUHk8Gh3I/AAAAAAAAAZU/hsy0maU4Yuo/s400/DSCN5614.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429955896132667250" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a>First off, let me wish everyone a "Happy New Year!" while it's still January! Yes, I know it's 2010, but I'm still "in" October and wanted to share with you how the rest of the week went for my weaving class. I know. Weaving is not the only thing I'm "slow" at!<br />
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Once I got through my second full day of class, changed my attitude, and decided that whatever I got accomplished was "good enough," then all went well.</div>
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My goal for my sampler was to try every possible weave combination that my instructor and I could come up with. So, I took meticulous notes. Aimed for symmetry. And here are the results!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S1sQpyZpbvI/AAAAAAAAAY0/jBix9GNYFCk/s1600-h/DSCN5497.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S1sQpyZpbvI/AAAAAAAAAY0/jBix9GNYFCk/s400/DSCN5497.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429952085815291634" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a>A little bit of basket weave.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S1sQ1yd93tI/AAAAAAAAAY8/0ZV0JonK_c8/s1600-h/DSCN5507.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S1sQ1yd93tI/AAAAAAAAAY8/0ZV0JonK_c8/s400/DSCN5507.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429952291991838418" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 264px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a>Playing with color and pattern.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S1sRIEpgDuI/AAAAAAAAAZE/QF1r-RZLbzw/s1600-h/DSCN5536.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S1sRIEpgDuI/AAAAAAAAAZE/QF1r-RZLbzw/s400/DSCN5536.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429952606109699810" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 239px;" /></a>Attempting a symmetrical ending.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S1sRWxmvg9I/AAAAAAAAAZM/FN3hoR2RgfY/s1600-h/DSCN5537.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S1sRWxmvg9I/AAAAAAAAAZM/FN3hoR2RgfY/s400/DSCN5537.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429952858695893970" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a>Cutting the warp. Would you believe that I was the last person to take a project off the loom?!?<br />
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One of the things that's really cool about the folk school is that all the classes participate in a final exhibit. Thus, the wonderful finishes from our class:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S1sWhEc7S_I/AAAAAAAAAZc/gbyIzMG8eqw/s1600-h/DSCN5549.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S1sWhEc7S_I/AAAAAAAAAZc/gbyIzMG8eqw/s400/DSCN5549.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429958533111827442" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a>Talk about a group of talented folks and what they were able to do in a week's time!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S1sW9NobtaI/AAAAAAAAAZs/93DsN6QQMfQ/s1600-h/DSCN5569.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S1sW9NobtaI/AAAAAAAAAZs/93DsN6QQMfQ/s400/DSCN5569.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429959016612345250" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a>Beautiful and colorful hand towels.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S1sWuETTqFI/AAAAAAAAAZk/JkE4JrNI_Ps/s1600-h/DSCN5565.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/S1sWuETTqFI/AAAAAAAAAZk/JkE4JrNI_Ps/s400/DSCN5565.jpg" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429958756409780306" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a>Lovely samplers, scarves, and even a shawl!<br />
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I would love to show you detail shots from every single project we worked on, but you will just have to trust me when I say how beautiful everyone's choices were and what a great group of folks we had in our class.<br />
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Maybe one of these days (or years!) I'll show you a few more pattern shots from my project and the "final" finish. 'Till then, I'm digging out at home as the new year begins.<br />
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Thanks for the continued inspiration to those of you who blog and post so faithfully. I've done a pretty good job of staying up-t0-date of late, and just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy your pictures, projects, and posts. Till next time...happy crafting!</div>
Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-7478066608569081372009-12-06T07:20:00.015-05:002009-12-06T08:25:52.166-05:00A Week of Weaving: Day Two<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Sxuu0-axmoI/AAAAAAAAAYk/M4DQCyWOZZI/s1600-h/DSCN5649.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Sxuu0-axmoI/AAAAAAAAAYk/M4DQCyWOZZI/s400/DSCN5649.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412111602347514498" border="0" /></a>When I woke up on Tuesday, our second full day of class, I woke up with a new attitude. I had gone to bed feeling discouraged about my feeble attempts and slow progress the day before - especially when I compared myself to others in the class. Many of them were ready to start weaving Tuesday morning. I still had threading and tie up to look forward to. But for whatever reason, I woke up thinking that I was here to learn as much as possible and <i>enjoy</i> the process. I had <b>not</b> "enjoyed" the day before; and that's a feeling I'm not used to and don't like. I decided then and there that I was going to take my time, not worry about how much I got "done" or how quickly, and that if I only completed one project instead of two, then that was good enough. <div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Sxuocee6qaI/AAAAAAAAAYM/5LqW3NC038o/s1600-h/DSCN5467.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Sxuocee6qaI/AAAAAAAAAYM/5LqW3NC038o/s400/DSCN5467.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412104584388323746" border="0" /></a>So on Tuesday, I took my time and spent most of my day threading the heddles. Our instructor, Pam, wanted us to play with twill, so she insisted that we "come up with" our own draft design. I understood only the basic ideas behind a draft, and even though I really, <i>really</i> wanted to follow someone else's pattern, I came up with a threading pattern that was at least symmetrical and started threading. I didn't take the time to even think about what the weave structure might look like; I was just ready to get started and learn as I go.<br /><br />I was in the right frame of mind on Tuesday, so Ruth (my loom) and I got along just fine. The threading was tedious, as was getting all those threads through the reed, but it was a much easier process for me. By late afternoon, I was ready to weave!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Sxup_Jr_wsI/AAAAAAAAAYU/jJ-eY3Q4Z4w/s1600-h/DSCN5470.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Sxup_Jr_wsI/AAAAAAAAAYU/jJ-eY3Q4Z4w/s400/DSCN5470.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412106279613088450" border="0" /></a>By the end of day two, I had completed several inches of plain weave. I was on my way!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SxurCBjWycI/AAAAAAAAAYc/Ibhv_vC7D7o/s1600-h/DSCN5474.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SxurCBjWycI/AAAAAAAAAYc/Ibhv_vC7D7o/s400/DSCN5474.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412107428480600514" border="0" /></a><br /></div>Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-23916399659571512212009-11-01T08:50:00.027-05:002009-11-01T11:23:50.741-05:00A Week of Weaving: Day One<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Su2nSTvyWMI/AAAAAAAAAXU/bOkXSsBtm_U/s1600-h/DSCN5645.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Su2nSTvyWMI/AAAAAAAAAXU/bOkXSsBtm_U/s400/DSCN5645.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399155461267282114" border="0" /></a><br />What have <span style="font-style: italic;">you</span> always wanted to do? Me? I always wanted to learn how to spin and weave. When I first got out of college (and I'm talking just weeks after graduation!), I took a two-week spinning course offered through the School of Homestead Living and Rio Grande College in Ohio. Over twenty years later, I finally took a beginning weaving class at the <a href="http://www.folkschool.org/">John C. Campbell Folk School</a>. I learned more than I ever imagined I could learn in a week's time thanks to instructors Pam Howard and Dianne Totten.<br /><br />The course I signed up for, "Weaving - Beginning and Beyond," was a course on four-harness loom weaving that covered everything from preparing a warp, weaving a sampler, and completing a finished project. Pam, the resident weaver at the school, began our class on a Sunday evening with introductions and an overview of what we were in for during the week ahead. She warned us that Monday would be the most "difficult" day, but asked us to trust her <span style="font-style: italic;">and</span> the process.<br /><br />Monday morning came, and Pam wasn't kidding about that day being the most difficult. Pam introduced us to the warping board after we had picked out yarn and planned our first project, a sampler.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Su2oiGtSB8I/AAAAAAAAAXc/zHgzqpVt24U/s1600-h/DSCN5393.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 264px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Su2oiGtSB8I/AAAAAAAAAXc/zHgzqpVt24U/s400/DSCN5393.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399156832156649410" border="0" /></a>Pam made preparing the warp look easy.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Su2ppsoWVcI/AAAAAAAAAXk/1ipbFP_lwCk/s1600-h/DSCN5400.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Su2ppsoWVcI/AAAAAAAAAXk/1ipbFP_lwCk/s400/DSCN5400.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399158062107219394" border="0" /></a>But all that over, under, up, around, over, down, really messed with me! My DH always said that he was amazed that I had ever learned to tie my shoes, because when it comes to challenges like tying a knot, putting a strap on a camera, or wrapping warp, I have problems: big problems. I think Pam thought I was kidding when I was struggling with just following basic directions, but she soon learned I wasn't. Thanks to her and Diane's patience and direction, I finally managed to get all my threads aligned in the right direction.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Su2q2ZvKVUI/AAAAAAAAAXs/MqklYjx-QGA/s1600-h/DSCN5407.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 354px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Su2q2ZvKVUI/AAAAAAAAAXs/MqklYjx-QGA/s400/DSCN5407.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399159379885446466" border="0" /></a>By the time we were ready to "dress" the loom that day, I think Pam was the only one smiling!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Su2r0T7GY5I/AAAAAAAAAX0/5YCZgAeyxes/s1600-h/DSCN5409.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 323px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Su2r0T7GY5I/AAAAAAAAAX0/5YCZgAeyxes/s400/DSCN5409.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399160443476796306" border="0" /></a>When I went to lunch on Monday, a friend took one look at me and said, "Oh no." I was close to tears and feeling pretty stupid. I didn't expect weaving to be easy, but I also didn't expect to have SO many problems day one. Everyone else in the class seemed to be following along without any problems. Not me.<br /><br />I went back to class after lunch, nonetheless, and somehow managed to go from the warping board to warp on a loom. Amazing!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Su2uRrv7XPI/AAAAAAAAAX8/evaUTQ2YXNs/s1600-h/DSCN5442.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Su2uRrv7XPI/AAAAAAAAAX8/evaUTQ2YXNs/s400/DSCN5442.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399163147111849202" border="0" /></a>By the end of the day on Monday, I was ready to spend the week with Ruth, an 8-harness, 32" Macomber loom. Ruth: my new best friend, or enemy in disguise? Only time would tell.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Su2xQxVMZhI/AAAAAAAAAYE/4qIgBCRcTAE/s1600-h/DSCN5443.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Su2xQxVMZhI/AAAAAAAAAYE/4qIgBCRcTAE/s400/DSCN5443.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399166429965346322" border="0" /></a>By supper Monday evening, the weaving fantasy had ended. Reality began.Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-21202073388554199762009-10-25T12:38:00.015-04:002009-11-01T08:49:24.057-05:00The John C. Campbell Folk SchoolIn case you think I've been slacking in the crafting department because I've not been very good about posting of late, I'm here to let you in on a little secret about where I've been: the <a href="http://www.folkschool.org/index.php">John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown, NC.</a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SuSA9tZOmCI/AAAAAAAAAWs/u4vje1FTMpc/s1600-h/DSCN5590.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SuSA9tZOmCI/AAAAAAAAAWs/u4vje1FTMpc/s400/DSCN5590.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396580051142481954" border="0" /></a>When I first learned about the folk school a couple of years ago, I began making plans to go. The school was founded in 1925 by Olive Dame Campbell and Marguerite Butler and is named in honor of Olive's husband, John, who passed away in 1919. Both John and Olive studied Appalachian life and culture during the early 1900s. The school was modeled after Danish folk schools as a way to preserve that culture. Then, as now, the community of Brasstown welcomes visitors and supports the school's mission.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SuSBKrl-vII/AAAAAAAAAW0/7jbntY6osdc/s1600-h/DSCN5520.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SuSBKrl-vII/AAAAAAAAAW0/7jbntY6osdc/s400/DSCN5520.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396580273997397122" border="0" /></a>Today, the school offers classes in everything from blacksmithing to woodworking, and all in a noncompetitive and inspiring environment.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SuSG_IfkvUI/AAAAAAAAAXE/c9E-nHKO7Yg/s1600-h/DSCN5576.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SuSG_IfkvUI/AAAAAAAAAXE/c9E-nHKO7Yg/s400/DSCN5576.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396586672666492226" border="0" /></a>I had only a week at the school, but I'm ready to go back. I'm not going to get into the details of the class I took all in this post, since I have plenty to share. But I will leave you with a couple of hints as to what I've been up to. I spent the majority of my time at the Pittman Fiber Arts studio, seen here.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SuSHH5tBX4I/AAAAAAAAAXM/ZyKilCFZ4dI/s1600-h/DSCN5633.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SuSHH5tBX4I/AAAAAAAAAXM/ZyKilCFZ4dI/s400/DSCN5633.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396586823315185538" border="0" /></a>Falling in love with fiber that began here.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SuSGvTJ9NiI/AAAAAAAAAW8/lBbYP_0xO8M/s1600-h/DSCN5406.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SuSGvTJ9NiI/AAAAAAAAAW8/lBbYP_0xO8M/s400/DSCN5406.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396586400650704418" border="0" /></a>Much more to show and tell later. I hope your fall crafting adventures have been fabulous!Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-90286132558583465212009-07-12T16:10:00.006-04:002009-07-12T16:31:37.030-04:00Mary and MeI've tossed the floss for Mary Wigham and have decided to join the SAL.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SlpDxfZrW1I/AAAAAAAAAV8/ZvIROz_eHJE/s1600-h/DSC_8217.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SlpDxfZrW1I/AAAAAAAAAV8/ZvIROz_eHJE/s320/DSC_8217.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357669224232475474" border="0" /></a>This project will be a "first" for me, as I've never selected my own colors before. I was surprised by how easy it was (I'll say that now before the stitching begins!) to stand in front of all the DMC offerings and select the soft colors I was going for with this sampler. I selected the colors and then quickly settled on a 32 ct. antique white linen by Permin. Now to get started!<br /><br />I'm still working on Jenny Bean's church, but there's not been enough progress since last time to share another photo.<br /><br />Instead, I'll leave you with a photo from yesterday that captured the essence of the summer day along a garden wall. Have an enjoyable week!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SlpHiReg55I/AAAAAAAAAWE/bbfs_EoKhew/s1600-h/DSC_8115.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SlpHiReg55I/AAAAAAAAAWE/bbfs_EoKhew/s320/DSC_8115.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357673360843138962" border="0" /></a>Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-30360768783453517522009-06-14T13:08:00.014-04:002009-06-14T13:50:35.557-04:00Is it Still Spring?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SjUuuoMSpYI/AAAAAAAAAVM/sWYcdOqt61Q/s1600-h/DSC_6090.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SjUuuoMSpYI/AAAAAAAAAVM/sWYcdOqt61Q/s320/DSC_6090.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347231511170164098" border="0" /></a>I figured I'd better get busy posting my spring stitching progress (I can hear you laughing with me now!) before summer is upon us.<div><br /></div><div>Proof....</div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SjUvWw2tlsI/AAAAAAAAAVU/4dWhlC8ZE98/s1600-h/DSC_7950.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SjUvWw2tlsI/AAAAAAAAAVU/4dWhlC8ZE98/s320/DSC_7950.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347232200690341570" border="0" /></a>Just a wee bit of stitching on Jenny Bean's church. It's not that I've lost my desire to stitch, I've just not sat still long enough! Instead, I've been out enjoying the spring season and taking advantage of photo ops.<br /><br />I <span style="font-style: italic;">have</span> engaged in a bit of spring stashing, though. I fell in love with Tyler's Lion by <a href="http://pagesperso-orange.fr/longdog/">Long Dog Samplers</a> as soon as I saw it. My photo is not the best, but you get the idea of what a lovely design this happens to be.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SjUxmwl7c9I/AAAAAAAAAVc/2sQ_HAycrck/s1600-h/DSC_7953.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SjUxmwl7c9I/AAAAAAAAAVc/2sQ_HAycrck/s320/DSC_7953.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347234674521109458" border="0" /></a>If you, or someone you know, is working on Tyler's Lion, please let me know. There's so much possibility with this design!<br /><br />As for other random thoughts...check out the gorgeous just-completed sampler at the <a href="http://samplerloversblog.blogspot.com/">Sampler Lover's</a> blog. And, for those sampler lovers out there, the new (at least new to me) <a href="http://needleprint.blogspot.com/">Needleprint</a> blog is a must see and read.<br /><br />I'll leave you with one more random spring photo from Parke County, IN and a not-so-random wish that you are all enjoying your spring stitching and non-stitching adventures!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SjU20BINk4I/AAAAAAAAAVk/F4dtIV0caQU/s1600-h/DSC_7558.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SjU20BINk4I/AAAAAAAAAVk/F4dtIV0caQU/s320/DSC_7558.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347240399856309122" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div> </div>Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-73788656366207740152009-03-15T09:04:00.010-04:002009-03-15T09:28:28.059-04:00Back at It!Thank you for the kind words and warm wishes. I'm waiting for the "it gets easier" part to begin, but I'm doing well and thankful for every day.<br /><br />The last few weekends have felt pretty "normal." I've been visiting blogs, admiring everyone's work, and I've picked up the needle again. Yeah! Remember the little kitten ornament I started during the Olympics? Well, I completed the stitching,...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Sbz-SuNwcbI/AAAAAAAAAU8/eReHyUz4Hh8/s1600-h/DSC_5732.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 282px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Sbz-SuNwcbI/AAAAAAAAAU8/eReHyUz4Hh8/s320/DSC_5732.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5313401257987174834" border="0" /></a>and I finished the back stitching.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Sbz_Vbx896I/AAAAAAAAAVE/sCpH10kGurQ/s1600-h/DSC_5739.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 282px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/Sbz_Vbx896I/AAAAAAAAAVE/sCpH10kGurQ/s320/DSC_5739.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5313402404089952162" border="0" /></a>I'll admit that back stitching is <span style="font-style: italic;">not</span> my favorite part of the process, but it certainly makes a difference. I'll hold off on really "finishing" this little guy until the other kittens are stitched and ready (so who knows what decade that will be). For now, though, I'm back at it!Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-71173948011446861832009-02-05T10:58:00.008-05:002009-02-05T11:45:04.042-05:00In Loving Memory<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SYsM_IqWLUI/AAAAAAAAAUg/KdFRbcLrYC4/s1600-h/Richard+Nevels.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SYsM_IqWLUI/AAAAAAAAAUg/KdFRbcLrYC4/s400/Richard+Nevels.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299343665327910210" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Rick Nevels</div><div style="text-align: center;">6/21/52-1/26/09</div><div style="text-align: center;">Loved and Missed</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">When I started blogging a little over a year ago, I never intended to post a personal picture or to write about my personal life. In fact, when I first "discovered" blogs, I was too afraid to even leave a comment on anyone else's site. My how a year changes things.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">My husband, Rick, passed away unexpectedly a little over a week ago. Rick was a talented and passionate photographer and had gone up to Covington, KY on Friday, 1/23, to attend a Photoshop workshop with a friend of ours. He grew ill after lunch, was taken to a local hospital, and by Monday evening he was gone. Because his condition deteriorated so quickly, the hospital performed an autopsy that showed the "worst case" of pancreatitis they had ever seen. The pancreatitis was caused by "sludge" in the gallbladder getting trapped in the duct leading into the pancreas, and the pancreatic enzymes backing up into the pancreas. It was a quick and devastating process. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I share this information with you in hopes that it may help prevent the death of someone you love. Rick had been having severe abdominal pain for about a month, and had gone to see his doctor on Thursday. Even though his blood work from Thursday was within normal ranges, his doctor had set him up for an ultrasound to look for gallstones on the Monday he actually passed away. The episode that sent him to the hospital on that Friday was "attack" number five. According to the doctor who performed the autopsy, Rick was already exhibiting signs of pancreatitis when he began seeking medical attention for the stomach pain. The only thing that could have prevented his death is if he would have had his gallbladder out long before this past month. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Words cannot express how much I will miss him, nor what a wonderful relationship we shared. Our love of photography and the outdoors is what brought us together. In fact, the reason I started blogging is that Rick started a blog at the same time (a story I will share sometime). You can see some of his work on his blog, <a href="http://kyphotoblog.blogspot.com/">Photography in the Bluegrass</a>. I will do my best to continue his work and to honor his memory and my love for him through our photography and his website. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Now that I've moved from the impersonal to the personal, please know that my intention is to continue this blog as a way to share my love for needlework and to not dwell on the personal. Circumstances, however, have a way of making life and relationships all the more meaningful. Rick and I have been blessed by the love of many here in the Louisville area. I know, too, that the online community cares as well. Please don't let someone you love die from a stomach ache. <br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SYsVIrhwyiI/AAAAAAAAAUo/lGVpVAIPjwg/s1600-h/DSCN3799.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SYsVIrhwyiI/AAAAAAAAAUo/lGVpVAIPjwg/s400/DSCN3799.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299352625398991394" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Rick & Teri<br /></div>Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-75201835728724007852009-01-21T06:50:00.002-05:002009-01-21T06:52:55.046-05:00It's Been a YearI started this blog one year ago today. And I'm still here. Wow. Happy! Happy!!Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-37185415057890320222009-01-18T15:32:00.008-05:002009-01-18T15:55:06.116-05:00Knitting and StitchingNot too much going on during this cold, cold January except a little knitting and stitching. Not a bad way, though, to spend a cold, gray day.<br /><br />First of all, thanks for all the kind comments on Jenny Bean's contributions to my MMIRR! As you can see, the church is framed and under roof, and the bricks and windows are going in. I'm really needing a lot of <span style="font-style: italic;">good</span> light, however, for this linen. My DH has loaned me his desk lamp, so that has helped quite a bit. I'm thinking I may also need a stronger pair of reading glasses, though!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SXOWO2HHpcI/AAAAAAAAATo/Lgh666GbuJo/s1600-h/DSC_5128.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SXOWO2HHpcI/AAAAAAAAATo/Lgh666GbuJo/s320/DSC_5128.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292739168878175682" border="0" /></a><br />On the knitting front, I pulled out a scarf that I had started awhile ago; it's the "Flying V Scarf" by Iris Schreier in <span style="font-style: italic;">Exquisite Little Knits</span>. The yarn is Moda Dea's Cache, a bulky 75% wool, 22% acrylic, and 3% polyester blend. I like the colorway and the pattern, but I'd select a softer and lighter weight yarn if I make another. I love having a project on the needles during the winter months.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SXOWfUwv-nI/AAAAAAAAATw/t6zCbGp04WM/s1600-h/DSC_5125.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SXOWfUwv-nI/AAAAAAAAATw/t6zCbGp04WM/s320/DSC_5125.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292739451983755890" border="0" /></a><br />Hope you are all staying warm and enjoying your January projects as well. Until next time, happy stitching and knitting!Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-14056287545637210402009-01-01T16:10:00.018-05:002009-01-01T17:47:28.578-05:00A New Year and a New Project<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SV02IewMvJI/AAAAAAAAASw/37cTa3BuzYY/s1600-h/DSC_5117.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SV02IewMvJI/AAAAAAAAASw/37cTa3BuzYY/s320/DSC_5117.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286441056924908690" border="0" /></a><br />Happy New Year! I must say I love having a couple of days off work!! I'm catching up with blogs, and this post will make my 3rd post in two days. Truly amazing. I guarantee all will be back to "normal" soon! In the meantime, it's been so nice to relax and focus on a few creative endeavors.<div><br /></div><div>Many of you already know that New Year's eve marked the official groundbreaking for the <a href="http://memyselfandirrs.blogspot.com/">Me, Myself, and I Neighborhood Round Robins</a>. I've not broken ground yet - will be doing so this evening - but I spent part of yesterday finalizing my plans. I'll not repeat my initial plans I wrote about <a href="http://time2stitch.blogspot.com/search/label/MMIRR">here</a>. Instead, consider this post my first "progress" report!</div><div><br /></div><div>I had a frame in mind that I purchased earlier this year that I thought would be perfect for my neighborhood. It has an opening of 21" x 24". However, when I sat down to place my designs and pick a starting point, it didn't take long for me to realize that I didn't have near enough room for the neighborhood I envisioned. So...I've placed the "big" project on hold, and instead I'm taking a very pragmatic approach to my neighborhood: I'll be finishing and framing each of my historical houses, so the end result will be a repositionable wall community.</div><div><br /></div><div>Please meet the first residents: the local clergy and his dog, a female neighbor, and another neighbor's cow. </div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SV02mzcJ6zI/AAAAAAAAAS4/vHgMCg3ZiHQ/s1600-h/DSC_5116.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 182px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SV02mzcJ6zI/AAAAAAAAAS4/vHgMCg3ZiHQ/s320/DSC_5116.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286441577874058034" border="0" /></a>This scene is from Jenny Bean's 1794 sampler.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SV04xtseulI/AAAAAAAAATA/4j3xZ1RIkLU/s1600-h/DSC_5115.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 271px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SV04xtseulI/AAAAAAAAATA/4j3xZ1RIkLU/s320/DSC_5115.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286443964333734482" border="0" /></a>The pattern is from the <a href="http://www.scarlet-letter.com/">Scarlet Letter</a>, an excellent source of sampler reproductions and adaptations.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SV05dDDxHhI/AAAAAAAAATI/pCMk8iEHg7c/s1600-h/DSC_5114.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 259px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SV05dDDxHhI/AAAAAAAAATI/pCMk8iEHg7c/s320/DSC_5114.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286444708802928146" border="0" /></a>The floss and 29 count linen in the first picture make up the construction materials. Design size is 10" x 6". The history lessons will begin soon!<br /></div>Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-30528854904890708522008-12-31T12:06:00.019-05:002008-12-31T12:51:10.946-05:00Christmas Past<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SVuo1dQ7Z6I/AAAAAAAAARc/yGNG6lF6Y30/s1600-h/DSC_5087-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SVuo1dQ7Z6I/AAAAAAAAARc/yGNG6lF6Y30/s320/DSC_5087-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286004223991572386" border="0" /></a><br />Can you believe Christmas is <span style="font-style: italic;">past</span>, and here we are looking at New Year's eve??? Unbelievable! We were fortunate enough to spend Christmas in Ohio with my family, so I'll share a few pictures of my Mom's tree (which I <span style="font-style: italic;">love</span>) and some of the cross-stitched ornaments I've made for her in Christmases past.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SVurEEJNjpI/AAAAAAAAARk/uUoeP-ap3Oc/s1600-h/DSC_5080-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SVurEEJNjpI/AAAAAAAAARk/uUoeP-ap3Oc/s320/DSC_5080-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286006673969614482" border="0" /></a>Mom's tree is filled primarily with snowman and cardinal ornaments. It's always fun to search for something new for her tree.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SVurpbrqPsI/AAAAAAAAARs/19yQKP2CMGM/s1600-h/DSC_5084-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SVurpbrqPsI/AAAAAAAAARs/19yQKP2CMGM/s320/DSC_5084-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286007315943276226" border="0" /></a>The ornament, above, was the first cardinal ornament I made for her. My finishing skills are not very good, but the pale blue fabric and the egg shape at least related to the subject matter!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SVus5BVjAZI/AAAAAAAAAR0/iz9a0kIsZOI/s1600-h/DSC_5089-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SVus5BVjAZI/AAAAAAAAAR0/iz9a0kIsZOI/s320/DSC_5089-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286008683260739986" border="0" /></a><br />The year I made the wreath ornaments, Mom got one too. It's not one that I would have picked out for her, but I wrapped all my ornaments that year, and let folks select, at random, their gift.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SVutH3StE8I/AAAAAAAAAR8/rm9qTgyOOBw/s1600-h/DSC_5096-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SVutH3StE8I/AAAAAAAAAR8/rm9qTgyOOBw/s320/DSC_5096-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286008938262500290" border="0" /></a>My favorite, though, is the cardinal on the mailbox. This is one I'd like to have hanging on my tree as well!<br /><br />Finally, I'll share a photo of a stitched piece I made for Mom and Dad back in the late 80s/early 90s.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SVuudGa91kI/AAAAAAAAASE/heeVHHRY-VA/s1600-h/DSC_5091-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SVuudGa91kI/AAAAAAAAASE/heeVHHRY-VA/s320/DSC_5091-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286010402612565570" border="0" /></a>Mom had moved the location of this P. Buckley Moss design for the first time, and I was able to get close enough to take a shot. The photo is not so hot, but this is still one of my favorite finishes. When I purchased the pattern, my plans were to make one for my parents, and one for me. After hours and hours of working with white floss on white 36 count linen, and ripping out an entire lower section of the snow because I had messed up, I decided that this finish was going to be my one and only for this particular design. I love P. Buckley Moss's work, though, and have several other cross stitch patterns of her prints that may get worked up if I live to be an old, old woman!<br /><br />One last look...<br /> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SVuwAJl9uuI/AAAAAAAAASM/DhRI0_PuZ_c/s1600-h/DSC_5093-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 222px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SVuwAJl9uuI/AAAAAAAAASM/DhRI0_PuZ_c/s320/DSC_5093-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286012104271051490" border="0" /></a>and a wish to all of you checking in for a healthy, happy, and peaceful New Year!Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-27267444716020328502008-12-31T11:32:00.015-05:002008-12-31T15:44:01.760-05:00Binding OffFrom the title of this post, you may be able to infer there's a happy ending for my sister's Christmas scarf. Christmas day, however, began like this:<div><br /><div><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SVuffoPEy_I/AAAAAAAAARE/-uGqLO7xv8s/s320/DSC_4967.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285993953374817266" border="0" /></div><div>My sister's comment: "Do you remember...when you gave me my afghan...and you still had <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">it </span>on the needles?!?" Yes. I remember, and so does my family! In my own defense, I was in college; she was graduating from high school, and I was <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">almost </span>finished with a soft, beautiful, feather-stitched afghan. </div><div><br /></div><div>Two days after Christmas, though, her new scarf was off the needles...</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SVuh7SFnWvI/AAAAAAAAARM/_JgzghYx2oQ/s1600-h/DSC_5109-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 171px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SVuh7SFnWvI/AAAAAAAAARM/_JgzghYx2oQ/s320/DSC_5109-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285996627489151730" border="0" /></a>and around her neck....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SVujaI3jZMI/AAAAAAAAARU/vOCG_V7bW34/s1600-h/DSC_5111-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 207px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SVujaI3jZMI/AAAAAAAAARU/vOCG_V7bW34/s320/DSC_5111-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285998257101825218" border="0" /></a>Needless to say, she was happy that I had taken the hint and used the yarn she had fawned over. Merry Christmas sis!<br /><br /></div></div>Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-8678669860061671122008-12-21T08:56:00.019-05:002008-12-21T09:36:39.433-05:00'Tis the SeasonI love the holiday season, the decorations, and all the handmade ornaments. Please enjoy a few pictures from my holiday cross stitch projects from Christmas past.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5NHair6mI/AAAAAAAAAPs/7zPJuOV0iv0/s1600-h/DSC_7602.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5NHair6mI/AAAAAAAAAPs/7zPJuOV0iv0/s320/DSC_7602.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282244202731399778" border="0" /></a>Remember these? These are the first four Prairie <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Schooler</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Santa</span> cards, stitched and framed in the 80s. They were my first laced and framed projects, so I was pretty pleased with the results. I still love them! Here's a closer look.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5Og6_Yf7I/AAAAAAAAAP0/BwbZvXJyBFA/s1600-h/DSC_7614.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5Og6_Yf7I/AAAAAAAAAP0/BwbZvXJyBFA/s320/DSC_7614.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282245740450054066" border="0" /></a>And two more....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5PX_e4F-I/AAAAAAAAAP8/KrAf1em_b2c/s1600-h/DSC_7609.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5PX_e4F-I/AAAAAAAAAP8/KrAf1em_b2c/s320/DSC_7609.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282246686548695010" border="0" /></a>One Christmas past, I stitched and finished wreath ornaments for others and saved one for my tree....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5QgFgPu3I/AAAAAAAAAQE/cG1ujzB22Sw/s1600-h/DSC_7603.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5QgFgPu3I/AAAAAAAAAQE/cG1ujzB22Sw/s320/DSC_7603.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282247925115632498" border="0" /></a><br />And finally, one Christmas trip from the past I spent stitching the mini ornaments, below, that still hang on a small table tree....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5RQGlILxI/AAAAAAAAAQM/ly0Z7CBazyg/s1600-h/DSC_7628.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5RQGlILxI/AAAAAAAAAQM/ly0Z7CBazyg/s320/DSC_7628.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282248750038265618" border="0" /></a>Mrs. Claus, her animal friends...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5R0xyPgPI/AAAAAAAAAQU/W7Fq4V59egs/s1600-h/DSC_7631.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5R0xyPgPI/AAAAAAAAAQU/W7Fq4V59egs/s320/DSC_7631.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282249380111286514" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5SFW2CWNI/AAAAAAAAAQc/JAHioyVJ_dQ/s1600-h/DSC_7626.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5SFW2CWNI/AAAAAAAAAQc/JAHioyVJ_dQ/s320/DSC_7626.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282249664937220306" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5SYpyYiOI/AAAAAAAAAQk/gmHoQQ64KMg/s1600-h/DSC_7627.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5SYpyYiOI/AAAAAAAAAQk/gmHoQQ64KMg/s320/DSC_7627.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282249996439685346" border="0" /></a>Two of my favorites...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5S0iqTGII/AAAAAAAAAQs/6n51cvgTNDI/s1600-h/DSC_7629.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5S0iqTGII/AAAAAAAAAQs/6n51cvgTNDI/s320/DSC_7629.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282250475563063426" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5TBrhalAI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/WFrAFQkg5Ug/s1600-h/DSC_7630.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5TBrhalAI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/WFrAFQkg5Ug/s320/DSC_7630.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282250701280023554" border="0" /></a>And Santa himself....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5TW9RuY1I/AAAAAAAAAQ8/bAEH9QK1LNs/s1600-h/DSC_7632.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SU5TW9RuY1I/AAAAAAAAAQ8/bAEH9QK1LNs/s320/DSC_7632.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5282251066823304018" border="0" /></a>Happy holidays...from me...to you!Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-13850552064021949732008-11-23T19:40:00.016-05:002008-11-23T20:57:53.350-05:00Casting On (Again)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SSoAiGv7tXI/AAAAAAAAAO8/nFYh-FrgX0Q/s1600-h/DSC_4731.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SSoAiGv7tXI/AAAAAAAAAO8/nFYh-FrgX0Q/s320/DSC_4731.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5272026899717797234" border="0" /></a><br />Or...why not to take knitting advice from your husband, when your husband doesn't knit. Here's why.<div><br /></div><div>Last night's conversation:</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Me: "What do you think?"</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>DH: "It's not wide enough."</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Me: "Hmm. This is about how wide I've made my other scarfs. How's this?"</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>DH: "It's not wide enough."</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Me: "You really think so?"</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>DH: "Yes. It's not wide enough."</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Me: "OK. How's this?"</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>DH: "Much better."</div><div><br /></div><div>Fast forward to this morning's conversation:</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>DH: "What are you doing?"</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Me: "I'm starting over. This scarf is too wide."</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>DH: "Yeah. It looks too wide."</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Me: "Humph."</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>DH: "I don't know why you listened to me in the first place. I don't know the first thing about knitting!"<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SSoDSkLxLuI/AAAAAAAAAPE/5NawGpITPqw/s1600-h/DSC_4725.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SSoDSkLxLuI/AAAAAAAAAPE/5NawGpITPqw/s320/DSC_4725.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5272029931276152546" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div>Please meet my newest (1) afghan square, (2) table mat, or (3) head warmer for DH (sorry, no picture for that option!).<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SSoEHkhT41I/AAAAAAAAAPM/0oh1JJ3K0js/s1600-h/DSC_4728.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SSoEHkhT41I/AAAAAAAAAPM/0oh1JJ3K0js/s320/DSC_4728.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5272030841899574098" border="0" /></a>The scarf is back on the needles and will be a Christmas gift for my sister. She saw the yarn and dropped a<span style="font-style: italic;"> big</span> hint, so if you're reading sis, at least let me know <span style="font-style: italic;">you</span> know, so I can wear it in and save myself the wrapping!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SSoFNcHrzkI/AAAAAAAAAPU/pDSWYoY-Pf0/s1600-h/DSC_4730.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SSoFNcHrzkI/AAAAAAAAAPU/pDSWYoY-Pf0/s320/DSC_4730.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5272032042235448898" border="0" /></a>The yarn is Bernat's Soft Boucle. It's indeed soft and working up well on the larger needles. This is the first project I've posted on <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/account/login">Ravelry</a>. If you are a knitter or crocheter and have not gotten an account on Raverly, do so. The site recently celebrated its first year, and it's a wonderful free resource for yarns, projects, patterns, etc. and offers wonderful organizational tools for your projects. If you are already on Ravelry, I'd love to hear about your work!<br /><br />And while I'm on a scarf kick tonight, I'll share a picture of the scarves I've made over the last few years. To say I <span style="font-style: italic;">like</span> fiber is an understatement. With so much yarn out there, a quick knit is always an easy, fun, and practical way to enjoy some of the choices available!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SSoIrpi3shI/AAAAAAAAAPc/emY8aPpyGqE/s1600-h/DSC_4720.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SSoIrpi3shI/AAAAAAAAAPc/emY8aPpyGqE/s320/DSC_4720.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5272035859770094098" border="0" /></a>And one last look at all that color, glorious color!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SSoJKmdX9gI/AAAAAAAAAPk/JbW_3XD3IGU/s1600-h/DSC_4724.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SSoJKmdX9gI/AAAAAAAAAPk/JbW_3XD3IGU/s320/DSC_4724.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5272036391517681154" border="0" /></a>Best wishes for a warm week ahead and a Happy Thanksgiving!<br /><br /></div>Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-52220533095952901592008-11-09T10:50:00.014-05:002008-11-09T11:53:07.372-05:00All Roads Lead To...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SRcIMaUjJtI/AAAAAAAAAOU/xThiac9-FNI/s1600-h/DSC_4369.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SRcIMaUjJtI/AAAAAAAAAOU/xThiac9-FNI/s320/DSC_4369.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5266687298550048466" border="0" /></a><br />...a new craft project! At least that's been the case for me this fall. It's hard to believe that September and October are behind us, but I was able to spend most of my favorite season on the go. My husband and I vacationed in West Virginia and Virginia, and I spent several weekends in Ohio with my sister for two major events: the Country Living Fair in Columbus, and the Springfield Antique Show Extravaganza. Talk about two fun-filled weekends and a week's worth of beautiful mountain scenery! I could go on and on about our travels, but I'll stick to the crafty bits that followed me home.<br /><br /><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SRcMuNdBKhI/AAAAAAAAAOk/767wKIerqZQ/s1600-h/DSC_4510.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SRcMuNdBKhI/AAAAAAAAAOk/767wKIerqZQ/s320/DSC_4510.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5266692277257972242" border="0" /></a><br />Now that the projects can be seen in one place at one time, it doesn't look as bad as I had imagined. Lord knows I don't need another project, but I'm not one to resist temptation when it comes to the fun stuff! One of the booths at the Country Living Fair showcased finished quilts and punchneedle designs, so I bought my first punchneedle kit: the two Christmas sheep in the center of the photo above. Prior to this kit, I had admired the small designs, but I just hadn't found one that I liked well enough to buy. This one definitely caught my attention as did two others.<br /><br />As for the latch hook kits, it has been many years since I've worked one of those, but these two already hold sentimental value. My niece made me a latch hooked kitty pillow when she was 9 (she's now 19) that looked like the cat I had at that time: a little black and white tuxedo cat. We now have two cats we adopted almost two years ago: another little tuxedo and a big yellow fellow. Now how could I resist?<br /><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SRcQfqfJRwI/AAAAAAAAAOs/cy18qw23yCM/s1600-h/DSC_4512.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 313px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SRcQfqfJRwI/AAAAAAAAAOs/cy18qw23yCM/s320/DSC_4512.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5266696425399994114" border="0" /></a><br />Finally, I'm still stitching away on the kitty ornament. I'm almost ready to begin the backstitching! This little cross stitch project has seen a lot of miles this fall, but not once did I find time to stitch on any of my fall romps.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SRcSteVRIXI/AAAAAAAAAO0/PgdEjMxAITs/s1600-h/DSC_4508.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 278px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SRcSteVRIXI/AAAAAAAAAO0/PgdEjMxAITs/s320/DSC_4508.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5266698861678764402" border="0" /></a><br />Now that it's darker earlier, perhaps there will be more time for all these projects. And, yes, there's a Christmas project (not saying for what year) in the project photo above thanks to one of my sister's not-so-subtle hints. It definitely pays to hang out together during this time of the year! What new projects have caught your eye this fall? Hope you are all having fun with whatever you are working on!<br /></div>Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-39738376244029167102008-09-07T08:19:00.009-04:002008-09-07T09:13:25.868-04:00Me TooI know I'm not alone when I say I joined the <a href="http://memyselfandirrs.blogspot.com/">Me, Myself, and I Round Robin</a> that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Vonna</span> has opened. Not like I need another project, but this one was too enticing to resist! Like a lot of others who are participating, I've spent the past week thinking A LOT about my neighborhood. Last weekend I went through all of my cross stitch patterns thinking about the possibilities. Thank goodness it was a long holiday weekend! I finally decided to use design elements from reproductions of historical samplers.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SMPL7TZeBWI/AAAAAAAAAN0/t_fI9WMlcR4/s1600-h/DSCN5060.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SMPL7TZeBWI/AAAAAAAAAN0/t_fI9WMlcR4/s320/DSCN5060.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243258610869208418" border="0" /></a>Last night I sat down and started pulling out the houses to see what my options are and how large of a building lot I might need. I'm already concerned about size, but that's another issue altogether. So far, I have five house options out of the charts I pulled.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SMPOKGRrfjI/AAAAAAAAAOE/1fUodtYicVM/s1600-h/DSC_2955.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SMPOKGRrfjI/AAAAAAAAAOE/1fUodtYicVM/s320/DSC_2955.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243261064068169266" border="0" /></a>I'm so glad we have time to plan this project. Putting all the ideas together will be a challenge. I'm looking for a few specific elements from historical samplers that I don't have, such as a church, so I get to continue my research and see what else I can find. Seriously, this planning part is just downright fun!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SMPRWZx15oI/AAAAAAAAAOM/zPbNr-Hv_Gk/s1600-h/DSC_2954.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SMPRWZx15oI/AAAAAAAAAOM/zPbNr-Hv_Gk/s320/DSC_2954.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243264573996656258" border="0" /></a><br />On the stitching front, my "Olympic kitty" is still in training. I'll blame my early bedtime and too much Olympic event <span style="font-style: italic;">watching</span> for my lack of stitching progress! My husband just asked me this morning if I was going to finish this cat before I start my next project. He always makes me smile. Bless his heart!Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072380630890745312.post-85254333645423341402008-08-31T08:39:00.020-04:002008-08-31T10:10:49.374-04:00Fair InspirationIt's always a sign that summer is drawing to a close when the State Fair comes and goes. Last weekend was our <span style="font-style: italic;">last </span>weekend for the Kentucky State Fair. Have I mentioned that I <span style="font-style: italic;">love</span> the fair??? All fairs bring back such fond memories of 4-H exhibits (yes, snickerdoodles were the first thing I ever entered in a fair), parade routes (I played a squeaky clarinet), muddy shoes and wet clothes (it <span style="font-style: italic;">never </span>rains on the Barlow Fair), and running around the Ohio State Fair with my sister and squealing with delight over moldy food in one building and air conditioning in the Senior Citizens' building. Yep. I love the fair!<br /><br />Nowadays, I look forward to the annual events - for lots and lots of reasons - and for the inspiration. Here are pictures of a few of the items that caught my eye during this year's Kentucky State Fair. None of this work is mine, but I sure do find it inspiring!<br /><br />Let's begin with some incredible quilts....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SLqaUJvy7oI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/6ZjeHDF84lQ/s1600-h/Blue+Ribbon.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SLqaUJvy7oI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/6ZjeHDF84lQ/s320/Blue+Ribbon.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240670787403443842" border="0" /></a>The color is what really caught my eye with all of these quilts. The appliqué on the one above is beautiful, as is each and every block in the design.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SLqalPTbNPI/AAAAAAAAAJY/hLpL9s_2Q14/s1600-h/Blue+and+Brown.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SLqalPTbNPI/AAAAAAAAAJY/hLpL9s_2Q14/s320/Blue+and+Brown.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240671080952837362" border="0" /></a>And I never would have thought to combine the blues and browns with all that beautiful coral in the one above!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SLqa1lSafnI/AAAAAAAAAJg/-OZlB1fpZVs/s1600-h/Chickens.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SLqa1lSafnI/AAAAAAAAAJg/-OZlB1fpZVs/s320/Chickens.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240671361732083314" border="0" /></a>As for the barnyard filled with chickens and roosters...too cute. Some even had sparkles and sequins to accent their feathers.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SLqbEV60z5I/AAAAAAAAAJo/OvqwHiSwStU/s1600-h/I+Spy.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SLqbEV60z5I/AAAAAAAAAJo/OvqwHiSwStU/s320/I+Spy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240671615304650642" border="0" /></a>And I couldn't resist the colors and whimsy of each of these houses.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SLqbQe8h1hI/AAAAAAAAAJw/94K6gIa0f58/s1600-h/Cat+in+the+Hat.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SLqbQe8h1hI/AAAAAAAAAJw/94K6gIa0f58/s320/Cat+in+the+Hat.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240671823886145042" border="0" /></a>Even the Cat in the Hat was in the neighborhood!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SLqbcb0X3kI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/ZYe9W5ubiyk/s1600-h/Garden+Quilt.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SLqbcb0X3kI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/ZYe9W5ubiyk/s320/Garden+Quilt.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240672029205061186" border="0" /></a>As for these last two quilts, they are amazing! I love the garden design in the one above. And each and every wildflower in the one below has incredible texture and stitching that brings them to life.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SLqbqAo7fII/AAAAAAAAAKA/MQxUXy7PuJY/s1600-h/Wildflowers.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SLqbqAo7fII/AAAAAAAAAKA/MQxUXy7PuJY/s320/Wildflowers.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240672262427475074" border="0" /></a>One of the things that I've noticed over the years is that the quilt displays stay about the same in terms of the number of entries. There are always rows upon rows upon rows of beautiful quilts to wander through. Unfortunately, I can't say the same about needlework entries, and cross stitch entires in particular.<br /><br />When I first moved to Kentucky and started attending the State Fair, the entire back wall of one of the convention halls would be covered with cross stitch. And that back wall wasn't all! Each year, the exhibit area gets smaller and smaller. It's sad to see the number of entries dwindle each year. Nevertheless, here are a couple of items that I spent time admiring.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SLqcLHptJrI/AAAAAAAAAKI/_aUuphUv98I/s1600-h/Bastin+Basket.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SLqcLHptJrI/AAAAAAAAAKI/_aUuphUv98I/s320/Bastin+Basket.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240672831245461170" border="0" /></a>I love Marjolein Bastin's artwork, so I really enjoyed seeing one of her designs in a larger scale. This particular piece was worked on what looked to be fabric for an afghan. I loved the overall look.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SLqchBFyUHI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/VY4jDki2I8c/s1600-h/Christmas+Stocking.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SLqchBFyUHI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/VY4jDki2I8c/s320/Christmas+Stocking.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240673207441313906" border="0" /></a>I also came across one of the most spectacular Christmas stockings I've seen. Not only is this a beautiful design, but check out the workmanship and the great details below. I love it!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SLqcsLz0OCI/AAAAAAAAAKY/Aoda9G17lNw/s1600-h/Stocking+Details.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Dqvo-ZjHcqc/SLqcsLz0OCI/AAAAAAAAAKY/Aoda9G17lNw/s320/Stocking+Details.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240673399297292322" border="0" /></a>I hope you've enjoyed seeing some of the great work that was on display this year. I hope, too, that those quilters, needleworkers, and fiber artists out there will continue to exhibit their work each year. What incredible inspiration!Terihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13661315464602739489noreply@blogger.com0