Shelley's Artsy Fartsy Life

Mill Hill Patterns Giveaway

2012-01-07T19:25:00.000-08:00

The New Year tends to bring the organizer out in all of us. Well, after ~~tearing apart~~ sorting through my craft room I have discovered many patterns and whatnot I will never stitch. This is the first of possibly many giveaways I will be having over the next month or so.

The rules are simple. If you want to be entered in the giveaway then you need to comment on this post. If you do not have your blogger ID linked to an email address please make sure that you leave your email address in your comment so that I can contact you in the event that you are the winner.

Now for what you will get if you win this giveaway.

Five Mill Hill pattern books.

I will have my son randomly draw a winner on Saturday, January 14th.
Good luck to everyone!!

Happy New Year!!

2012-01-01T10:13:00.000-08:00

Giveaway Alert
What better way to start out the New Year Celebrating than with a giveaway. Jump on over to Sarah's Blog to see her awesome giveaway.

I hope everyone had a safe and Happy New Year Celebration. Paul, Connor and I all stayed up to watch the ball drop on tv. About 5 minutes later Connor was out cold, lol! It was his choice to stay up and I was shocked that he lasted that late in the evening.

I'm off now to gather up all of my stitching to organize my 2012 projects.

May 2012 be an awesome year for us all :)

Good-Bye 2011

2011-12-31T21:16:00.000-08:00

I've been getting over my infections this past week and I am finally feeling a lot better. My ear with the tube in it is still having some troubles, it keeps plugging up which isn't technically possible since there is a tube in the eardrum.

While recovering I have been stitching like crazy. My goal for this New Year's Eve was to finish all of the Monthly Britty Kitties. I have fallen a little short of that goal but I will finish them in the next week or so. Below are pics of the ones I completed this past week and the progress I made on the one I started this morning.

April Britty Kitty

by Brittercup Designs

Stitched on 32 ct. Queen Anne's Lace

with recommended GAST, WDW & DMC threads

May Britty Kitty

by Brittercup Designs

Stitched on 32 ct. Queen Anne's Lace

with recommended GAST, WDW & DMC threads

June Britty Kitty

by Brittercup Designs

Stitched on 32 ct. Queen Anne's Lace

with recommended GAST & DMC threads

(supplimented DMC for WDW)

July Britty Kitty (in progress)

by Brittercup Designs

Vickie over at Reading and Stitching is having a fantastic de-stashing giveaway on her blog. Jump on over and check it out before the deadline of Sunday, oooh that is tomorrow!!

I hope you have had a great 2011, if not, and even if so, I wish you a wonderful 2012!
Happy New Year hugs to all of my friends, both online and offline!

Advent Finale & More

2011-12-26T12:07:00.000-08:00

I have been lax in the past few days in updating my blog. I have been very ill. I caught something nasty from Paul. I have a sinus infection, ear infection in both ears and my throat is swollen and raw. My throat hasn't hurt this bad since my last bout of strep throat before I had my tonsils removed almost 15 years ago. I was able to get a telephone appointment with the doctor on Christmas Day and I am now taking an antibiotic that is already starting to give me some relief.

So, even though I am sick, I hope everyone had as wonderful a Christmas as we did. Connor was all smiles and giggles as he opened his presents yesterday morning. While he didn't get everything on his wish list to Santa he was thrilled with what he did get. He was spoiled to bits with Harry Potter Legos. He now has both Hogwarts Castle sets and Diagon Alley along with all of the smaller HP Lego kits. I think the only ones he doesn't have now are the Knight Bus, Hogwarts Express, Hagrid's Hut and The Burrow. Well, his birthday is 3 months away so I am sure they will be on his birthday wish list, lol.

My Mom & Dad spoiled me with Little House Needleworks patterns.

LHN 2011 Ornament Series No.1 - 10, plus the fabric to stitch each one!!

Advent Finale

Below are the final 5 days of the Advent Exchange from CSE Yahoo Group. I must say that Barbara outdid herself and I have loved opening all of my wonderful presents

Day 21

Photo cube

Day 22

Kimberley Crafts Icicle Ornament Pattern

Day 23

Snowman kit

Day 24

Notecards in a decorative box

Day 25

Lizzie Kate kit which includes the fabric and charms (Normal is just a setting on the washer!), size 26 needles & all the threads to stitch this kit!!! Awesome :)

Pam - aka My Secret Penpal

My new friend Pam had included some Christmas presents for Connor and I in her final letter to me revealing her identity. We opened them yesterday morning. Thank you Pam for the lovely gifts and your generosity. Connor loves the snowman toy!

My goodies - gingerbread sandwich cookie kit, snowman ornament and light up nativity statue

Connor's goodies - Invisible Ink Picture Book, mini M&Ms and a snowman toy (push the button and the snowman jumps off of the top!)

Connor Has Been Stitching Again

Connor has been begging me to get him more kits to stitch. So I let him pick a few from http://www.easystreetcrafts.com/ and they came in the mail the other day. In true stitcher form, Connor wanted to start stitching one as soon as they came out of the package. Below is his progress after 2 days, keep in mind he only stitches for maybe 30 minutes each day. He is only 7 so his attention span is pretty short.

And the Winners Are...

Lizzie Kate Cat Lessons for People Giveaway

And

The

Winner

Is...

Debi Murray!!

Silver Lining Stargazer Lily Giveaway

And

The

Winner

Is...

SocialSue!!

Teresa Wentzler Giveaway

And

The

Winner

Is...

Cindy in MA!!

Mystic Stitch Bay View Green Giveaway

Unfortunately no one entered this giveaway so I guess I will hold onto it and try again at a later date to share this with another stitcher.

I will be emailing all of the winners privately for mailing addresses and such. Congratulations to all of you!!

I am off to watch all 8 of the Harry Potter movies, I got them as a Christmas present from Paul, and stitch my Britty Kitties!!

Advent & Life with a Cat

2011-12-20T11:44:00.000-08:00

Advent Exchange Update
As each day brings a new gift to open up I am reminded of how thankful I am to have such wonderful friends that I've met online and in person.

Day 17

Double-Sided Tape (can never have too much of this as I use it in my cardmaking), floral magnet & a photo album

Day 18

Wonderful Christmas ribbons!!

Day 19

Tomato pin cushion & a bag of key chain links (also has lanyard links!)

Day 20

Stitchable coasters

Life with a Cat

Adjusting to life with a cat in the house has been 'interesting' to say the least. I've never had a cat in my home that loved a Christmas tree so much. The other night we found him half-way up the inside of the trunk, lol! No idea what he was doing, just climbing I guess. Sam is a little stinker. He gets into everything. He thinks everything is his business. I've been snapping some pictures of Sam since I am enjoying watching Connor warm up to him.

Once Sam is done tiring himself out with his antics he does this...all day long...

He loves to stare at me, lol!

Some things to share

Stay tuned later today for a few posts about giveaways. I spent most of yesterday evening cleaning through a lot of my stash and I have found quite a bit that I know I will never stitch. Some are kits, some are patterns, some are patterns I stitched but no longer need to hang on to. In the spirit of the Christmas Season I have some patterns and such to giveaway.

Don't forget to check out my FSOT blog. I have marked down the asking price on almost all of my items for sale.

Merry Christmas!!

Lizzie Kate Giveaway

2011-12-20T10:05:00.000-08:00

In the Spirit of the Christmas Season I am having multiple giveaways. This one is a pattern that I thoroughly enjoyed stitching and would like to share with a fellow stitcher.

Reply to this post if you are interested in being in the drawing for the pattern below. I will draw a winner on December 26th!!

Make sure to include a way for me to contact you.

Cat Lessons for People

by Lizzie Kate

Mystic Stitch Giveaway

2011-12-20T10:03:00.000-08:00

This wonderful RAK has sat in the bottom of my 'to-do' drawing for way too long. I know someone out there would enjoy stitching this.

Reply to this post if you would like to be entered into the drawing for the pattern below. I will draw a winner on December 26th!

Make sure you include a way for me to get in contact with you.

Bay View Green

by Mystic Stitch

Complete 15 page pattern. Stitch count is 325 x 243.

The Silver Lining Giveaway

2011-12-20T10:02:00.000-08:00

I was generously RAKed this pattern a few years back. At the time I wanted to stitch it. But, our tastes change over time and now I think it is in need of being stitched by someone else.

Reply to this post if you would like to be entered into the drawing for the pattern below. I will draw a winner on December 26th!

Make sure you leave a way for me to contact you.

Stargazer Lily

by The Silver Lining

Complete 14 page pattern. Stitch count is 269 x 342.

Teresa Wentzler Giveaway

2011-12-20T10:01:00.000-08:00

Whiel cleaning through my stash I found this book. I never intend on stitching any of the patterns in it so I would love for it to pass to the hands of a stitcher who will actually use it.

Reply to this post to be entered into the drawing for the pattern book below. I will draw a winner on December 26th!

Make sure you leave a way for me to contact you.

The Best of Teresa Wentzler

Fantasy Collection

Includes 10 patterns:

Rapunzel, Day, Night, Magical Night, Carousel, The Castle Sampler, Stroke of Midnight, The Castle, Pegasus & Unicorn

Christmas Guest

2011-12-16T19:22:00.000-08:00

While my friend is out of town for the holidays I am watching her furbaby. I love cats and I am so happy to have a little ball of fur in my home once again.

Sam Witwicky

(he's still wet from his bath in this picture)

Advent Exchange

I am a few days behind in my updates. Here are some more awesome gifts from Barbara.

Day 13

Highlighters (I can never have enough of these as I use them for marking my place on my pattern copies.)

Day 14

Post-Its (One can never have too many Post-Its!)

Day 15

Stitchable potholder, DMC needles, LoRan Needlecase, LoRan Needlethreader and a Laying Tool!!

My New Laying Tool

Day 16

Mini Flower Pressing Kit

One Last Birthday Present

I absolutely had to share this beautiful present. My dear friend Marissa made this wonderful pin cushion for me. She also made the pins in it.

With only 9 days left until Christmas I hope everyone is done with their shopping. I still need to finish wrapping my presents but that will happen this weekend.

Merry Christmas to All!!

Birthday Finale & More

2011-12-12T22:01:00.000-08:00

My Birthday
On Sunday we traveled down to my folks to celebrate my birthday. Low and behold, Paul had one of my presents shipped to their house. He bought me a Kindle Touch!!! I can not be more excited about getting a new toy than I am right now. I can't wait to start reading on it. I have the best husband ever...

Unfortunately my celebrating is over. But wait...Christmas is only 13 days away!

12 Days of Christmas
Here are the final 2 days presents for this exchange. I must say how happy I am that Meari was my partner. We keep finding out we have more in common each time we "chat". So it is no surprise that I absolutely love all of the gifts she picked for me. Thank you Meari!!

Day 11

Lizzie Kate's Snowman '10 Snippet (from my wish list)

Day 12

Cute reindeer card & the most beautiful Kelmscott scissors I've ever seen. They are so tiny.

Advent Exchange

I am having so much fun with this exchange. It is wonderful that this one lasts for 13 more days!

Day 11

A little box full of red & green leather lace, plus red & green buttons! The containers for the buttons are adorable. The lids are even buttons.

Day 12

Sheer green wired Christmas ribbon with gold glitter trees on it!!

I started wrapping Christmas presents today. I have so many more to wrap. Yikes!!

Merry Christmas

Happy Birthday To Me!

2011-12-10T20:25:00.000-08:00

My Birthday
I started off my birthday celebrating Friday night at Dave and Busters. Some of the ladies from work and I get together for a lunch date once a month. We celebrate whoever has a birthday that month. Last night we celebrated mine! I got spoiled rotten with candles, candy, a beautiful ornament, coffee mug, insulated cup, the list goes on. I played to much skee ball and my lower back is paying for it, lol! Oh, to be a kid again.

This morning I was greated with gifts from Paul and Connor. Paul got me a tin of Peppermint Cremes from Williams-Sonoma and a book light for my headboard on the bed. Connor got me a Pyrex loaf pan and a Star Wars Lego set (mental note: be careful when shopping with small children, don't comment on toys by saying you wish you had one of these...). I love Legos and I love Ewoks but I never expected him to buy them for me. Now we get to play them together!

I opened birthday presents I received from friends.

From Evalina

Donna Kooler's Encyclopedia of Needlework. (I commented on Evalina's blog when she got this book as there is a pattern in it I would love to stitch for myself. Evalina is so sneaky!)

From Lisa

A beautiful card, silk red/green earrings, Textile Heritage Delft Tulips Needlecase and Bookmark kits (from my wish list) and an adorable stitchable keychain from PINN!

I have been taking part in a Birthday Floss Club (BFC) Exchange on the CSE Yahoo Group. Here are all my cards and goodies.

Crescent Colours - Spinach (2); WDW - Icicle, Rum Raisin, Confetti, Santa Clause, Envy, Angel Hair, Jack-o'Lantern; GAST - Forest Glade, School House Red, Onyx, Deep Sea, Punchberry, Sweet Pea; Carrie's Creation - Love Always; Dinky Dyes - Luna Park & Peach Melba; The Dye Shop - Oh Baby!

12 Days of Christmas Exchange Update

Day 9 from Meari

Lovely piece of chocolate colored fabric & Carrie's Creation - Colonial Red & Magenta

Day 10

Absolutely beautiful door bells!! I can't hang this on my front door or Paul will wake up Connor way too early on the weekdays when he leaves at o'dark 30 for work. Hmmmm....where will it go....

Advent Exchange Update

Day 9 from Barbara

A cute box filled with all these goodies! 3 ornaments (1 is now hanging on Connor's tree!), buttons, xmas ornie kit and snowman placecards!

Day 10

Santa kitchen towel & pot holder & a holiday apron.

My Secret Pal Revealed

I received a surprise package in the mail yesterday. I wondered to myself, who could this be from? My Secret Pal sent me a package full of Christmas presents for both myself and Connor. Pam from MI is my Secret Pal. I am so happy to learn a name to put with the gifties I've been getting. Thank you Pam for all that you have sent to me and the friendship that has grown. I look forward to corresponding with you in the near future. I've put our presents under the tree. Fifteen more days and I'll be able to share with you what Pam sent us.

My Christmas Goodies

Connor's Christmas Goodies

We are going to my folks house tomorrow afternoon for my birthday. I might have more goodies to share when we get home.

Merry Christmas!!

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas!

2011-12-08T07:07:00.000-08:00

First I have to share pictures of a few of our indoor Christmas decorations.

Our Christmas Tree

(My camera didn't give the tree the justice it deserves. It is such a gorgeous dark green and the lights are on but you can not tell...underneath are all of my exchange packages waiting to be opened and to the right is a stack of all my birthday goodies, also waiting to be opened.)

My Christmas Countdown Display

(Both the house and the Mickey with the piano are ornaments but they are way too heavy for my tree. They both also play music.)

Connor's First Tree

(Last year Connor begged us for his own tree in his bedroom. I found this 4 & 1/2 foot pre-lit fake tree at Target for only $30! It's hard to see but it is mainly decked in Star Wars ornaments. I still need to make a felt tree skirt but that is on my list of things to do today, lol.)

12 Days of Christmas Exchange

Day 7

Silkweaver 32 count Belfast Linen

Day 8

Scrapbooking Supplies

(These will come in very handy when I'm making cards.)

Advent Exchange

Day 7

Udderly Smooth Hand Cream

It was in this adorable stocking ornament!

Day 8

Christmas Handtowel and Oven Mit

(I'm cleaning my kitchen today and these will be out and ready to use afterwards!)

Thank you to both of my Santas, Meari and Barbara. You both outdid yourselves!

Merry Christmas!!

More Exchange Presents To Share

2011-12-06T20:05:00.000-08:00

12 Days of Christmas
More goodies from Meari.

Day 5

Yummy!!

Day 6

Carries Creation Threads - Autumn Leaves and an adorable magnet sign.

Advent Exchange

More goodies from Barbara!

Day 5

Christmas tissue paper, Post-It page markers & paperclip bookmarks!

Day 6

28 count Monaco Evenweave fabric (this will come in extremely handy)

My Birthday

Some of you may know already that my birthday is coming up. Actually, it is this Saturday, December 10th. I will officially be 35! The number is no big deal to me. What is huge for me this year is the amount of love and friendship I am feeling with so many of my online friends. I have been receiving surprises in the mail the last few days.

I received a package in yesterday's mail from http://www.123stitch.com/ and I was puzzled as I did not place an order with them recently.

From Felicity

Cross Stitch Gauge, Needle Threader, Bohin Needles, Thread Heaven & a Kelmscott Needle Minder (I've always wanted one!!)

Then I got a card, but it wasn't a Christmas Card.

From Debbie

A lovely birthday card and 2 skeins of DMC!

Today's mail brought me another surprise! I got a package from http://www.amazon.com/. Again, I was puzzled as I hadn't placed an order yet, lol.

From Evalina

I don't know what it is yet! Even though the wrapping was a little torn I don't want to open it until Saturday. I'll post what it is once I open it.

I hope you are enjoying my exchange updates. I am truely thankful for each and every gift and comment I am receiving. My next update will include Christmas decoration pictures!

Merry Christmas :)

Keeping the Postal Service Busy...

2011-12-04T09:17:00.000-08:00

Surprise in the Mail
I love getting surprises in my mailbox. This past week I received a wonderful RAK from Lisa N.

LHN's Home of the Needleworker Too! &

Caron Waterlilies Far Horizons

(Both from my http://www.123stitch.com/ wish list)

12 Days of Christmas Exchange

I have been having so much fun with this exchange! Meari was my Santa and she is spoiling me so much. I am catching up on posting so the first 4 days presents are pictured below, but first see what it looked like when it arrived.

Twelve wonderful packages!

I don't know if I am supposed to open the card now or later. I've decided to save it until day 12.

Day 1

Foo Foo Foot Pampering Goodies

Udderly Smooth Cream (Can never have enough of this. Especially this time of year.)

Day 2

JBW Designs - French Country Snow Globe

Snowflake Charms

Day 3

Adorable Santa Ornie - Meari signed and dated the back!

Santa Gear 3D stickers - I am going to use these for Connor's Christmas card!

Day 4

These are approx. 5x5 inches each. If I know Meari, and I think I know her pretty well, these are hand dyed per her!

Advent Exchange

Another group I belong to is having an Advent Exchange. You have to send 25 individually wrapped presents to the recipient. Barbara got my name and boy has she been good to me so far. I can't wait for each day to see what she got me next.

Woo Hoo!!

I can't wait to open each one of them...

Day 1

A wonderful Zen Garden (Connor thought it was from Cars 2. For those that haven't seen the movie, Mater is in Japan and there is a Zen Master in a glass box raking the sand and Mater tells him he's done a good job, all the leaves are gone, lol!)

Lovely Christmas Socks - I can never have enough of these, my feet stay so cold.

4 teas - I will enjoy trying these yummy flavors

Day 2

A scrumptious apple scented candle.

When we unpack our Christmas decor I have the perfect plate for this to sit on.

Day 3

A fabulous table runner. It's beautiful and shimmers in the light.

Now I have to clean off my table so I can show this beauty off!

Day 4

It's hard to see in the picture because of my camera flash, but the year 2011 is on the top of the stocking. I can't wait to get a picture of us to put in this.

I hope to be diligent every day and update these exchanges as I open each day's surprises. My Christmas cards are all in the mail and my decorations will be going up today.

Christmas is definitely on it's way as I scramble around looking for presents! I am enjoying the Christmas music throughout the stores. It helps to ignore all of the irritating people that are in a rush.

I hope you are enjoying your holiday season. Merry Christmas Everyone!!

YUUUUUP!!

2011-11-30T07:16:00.000-08:00

Do you watch the A&E Channel?

If you do the title to this post might ring a bell!

On our drive down to Disneyland I was riding shotgun. When we got into the city freeway traffic I was people watching the vehicles we were passing on the right. Who should I happen to see and instantly squeel with glee? Dave Hester from the A&E show Storage Wars! I got so excited my Dad didn't know what to think was happening. Dave was driving one of his huge company trucks that has his catch phrase "YUUUUP!!" all over it. I waved but he was busy on his cell phone. No doubt he was on his way to a storage company to bid on units.

I think it is awesome to see people in real life that we see every week on tv. It makes you realize that they really do exhist outside of our tiny picture box!

http://www.aetv.com/storage-wars/

Where has the month gone to?

2011-11-27T15:50:00.000-08:00

Secret Pen Pal Packages
First, let me say to my Secret Pen Pal that I feel horrible. I thought I posted about the package I received in early November but as I checked the most recent posts on my blog I realized I was in error. I took the pictures, I even downloaded them to my laptop, but that is where I stopped and I have no idea why. So, below you will see what Connor and I received from my Secret Pen Pal for Halloween and what I received for Thanksgiving. Thank you so much for spoiling me (us)!!

This adorable little figure is about 6 inches tall.

Connor received a cute little bendable jack-o-lantern, a notepad,

stackable jack-o-lantern boxes and this crazy confetti!!

A lovely letter & Thanksgiving Card, an adorable light up turkey figurine,

Honey Apple Pecan Dip Mix (yummy!!) & Sew Cozy Chart & Charms by Dimensions.

Christmas Ornament Exchange

I took part in a stitched Christmas ornament exchange on one of my yahoo groups. Yesterday a package arrived all the way from the UK!! I received this beautiful biscornu ornament and magnet from Elizabeth.

Vacation Update

Well, we got back from our vacation to Disneyland yesterday. I am so disappointed with the weather we came back to. We are being hit with a wet cold. It is actually only a few degrees colder here than it was in Disneyland but it was a dry cold and the sun was showing down in Anaheim. Oh well, it just means that the best season of the year has started!!

We had a wonderful time on our vacation. I had posted to my groups that I had no pictures to share but I found a few that were suitable. Let's just say Connor was not in the mood to have his picture taken until he saw Lightning and Mater!

Finding Nemo Submarine Ride!!

For those of you who have seen Finding Nemo you'll understand the seagulls.

Every so many minutes these seagulls start saying "Mine, Mine, Mine!"

(I loved it so much I even got the t-shirt.)

Paul & Connor on the Tuck & Roll Bumper Cars in a Bug's Land.

Connor & I with Lightning & Mater!

Our feet are sore, our faces are a little sunburnt and our wallets are lighter but we did have a wonderful Thanksgiving Vacation in Disneyland.

Before we left I was so happy to find and purchase this cross stitch kit that is exclusive to Disneyland and Disneyworld!

I hope everyone had a lovely Thanksgiving surrounded by family, friends and great food! I am now getting ready for Christmas, my absolute favorite time of year. I have 2 packages I am patiently waiting for the postman to deliver to me. One is an Advent Exchange and the other is a 12 Days of Christmas Exchange.

I'm off now to get the house cleand and ready to decorate for Christmas. Plus I still am trying to finish up an ornament for an exchange I am embarrassed to say that I am behind on.

Happy Holidays to All!!

Lots of Goodies in the Mail

2011-10-30T15:42:00.000-07:00

But First...
Connor's school pictures came in!! It looks so fabulous I had to share. (Not to worry, this is not copyright infringement as we paid extra for the cd and it came with a release.)

Connor

2nd Grade

7 1/2 years old

Now for the mail...

I am taking part in quite a few exchanges. My mailman has been working busy the past few days delivering all of these goodies.

ILCS 10th Birthday Exchange

from Lisa P

Stitchable bookmark &

27x18 piece of 32ct linen (color - blue wing double)

CSE BFC Exchange

(my b-day isn't until December!!)

from JoAnn

GAST threads Soot & Antique Rose

Teas - Christmas Morning & I Love Lemon

CSE BFC Exchange

from Eva

WDW threads - Daylily & Charlotte's Pink

CSE Fall Exchange

from Barb

(shown in 2 parts)

Eggnonn'n tea, Skull Socks, Felt Pumpkin Buttons,

3 halloween notepads, Witchy Money Milk Chocolate Bar,

Candy Corn and Jack'o Lantern Candles

Floral Silhouette Ribbon, 2 Potholders,

Fall Colored Cording, 3 skeins of DMC Variations,

8x13 piece of PTP 16ct Ale Aida

I am so thankful for all of the wonderful goodies I've received. Thank you to all of the senders :)

I am off to work on stitching for an exchange with a fast approaching deadline.

Happy Halloween!!

So many things to share...

2011-10-03T15:37:00.000-07:00

Walk-a-Thon Update
I want to thank the two people that generously contacted me and sent Connor donations for his Walk-a-Thon. I won't name names, but you know who you are and I am greatly appreciative. Thank you.

This year's Walk-a-Thon fundraiser was a huge success. The PTA was able to raise almost $5,500 to help us continue with our many programs and events for the children.

Secret Pen Pal
I received the prettiest card and magnet from my Secret Pen Pal.

Some Surprises in the Mail

This first surprise came in my e-mail inbox. I don't know who it is from so I thought I'd say thank you here. I received a $10 gift certificate to http://www.123stitch.com/. I love shopping there so I know I'll be able to find something to spend it on, lol!

The second surprise came from my dear friend Lisa. She was back in the States for a quick visit and she sent me some of the most beautiful things.

Silk Necklace and Earrings from Cambodia

Another beautiful Cambodian Silk Necklace

This bookmark is 24k gold plated stainless steel. The embroidery is Korean and handmade.

Stitchy Finishes

I finished both of the following back on September 24th.

Lizzie Kates Cat Lessons for People

Stitched on 32 ct natural light linen

with recommended WDW and Crescent Colours threads.

White cat stitched using White Wisper threads.

March Britty Kitty by Brittercup Designs

Stitched on 32 ct Queen Anne's Lace Jobelan

with recommended floss.

That's it for my updates for now. I am off to stitch on some exchange pieces now.

Happy Stitching and Happy Fall!!

Back From the Framers!!

2011-09-12T17:47:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to share with you my most recent accomplishment. Grant it, I didn't officially do the work, but I trusted someone else to frame my stitching. I picked these pieces up on Friday night and without further ado...

Monopoly Board

(The matting is a bright primary red but this is the cleanest picture I could get.)

Father & Son by Vervaco

Spring Time by Sue Hillis Designs

Walk-a-Thon

If you haven't read about it yet, please check out my last blog post. Any support is greatly appreciated.

I'm off to stitch now...

PTA Walk-a-Thon Fundraiser

2011-08-29T13:38:00.000-07:00

This is an unusual place to be making this type of request but I feel I need to reach out to all of my fellow online buddies and stitchers for support.

As you all know by now, I am the President of the PTA at my son's school. This year we are foregoing the usual catalog fundraiser where kids have to sell stuff for outrageous prices compared to the value of the product. Instead, we are having a Walk-a-Thon. It is a fun and healthy way for the children to help the PTA raise the necessary funds to do host the many events and things we do for the school. To name a few...Fall Festival, Lasagna Dinner, Free Family Bingo Nights, Free Family Movie Nights, whiteboards for the students to use at their desks, replacement chairs for broken ones, teacher stipends, headphones for computer lab, owl pellets for 3rd grade science project, pottery for 5th grade end of year project, etc. The list could go on for days.

If any of you would like to help by making a monetary contribution to Connor's Pledge Sheet please contact me personally at s.tompkins76@yahoo.com. The Walk-a-Thon is taking place on Tuesday, September 20th. Last year Connor was able to do about 10 laps in the 30 minutes allotted. Each lap is 660 feet, 8 laps equal 1 mile. Pledges can be made with a flat rate pledge or a per lap pledge. For this to be a success we need to raise at least $8,000. If you would like to pledge for Connor please contact me for further information.

Note: All contributions are tax deductible and I can send you the necessary receipts for this deduction.

Thank you for all of your support!!

Gifts, a Stitchy Update & De-stashing

2011-08-27T18:15:00.000-07:00

Our 9th Anniversary
I forgot to mention this in my last post. For our 9th anniversary my folks got us an unbrella for our backyard. Unusual anniversary present you might say, but no, it was what we asked for. We've had the table and chairs for awhile but the table was left in the elements one winter and it became funky. The top was dusty and when you touched it a white powder would get stuck to your hands. So, since we got the umbrella I bought some spray paint made for plastics and I refinished the table. Here is the end result...

Secret Pen Pal

Today's mail brought a lovely card from my Secret Pen Pal. Enclosed is a bookmark that she made with her 3rd Grade Sunday School class.

PIF Update

In my previous post I talked about my past PIF experience. I in no means posted about my woes with this type of exchange/giveaway in order to get the PIFs that were due to me. But, as it turns out, the person that owed me the 5 Item PIF read my blog post and realized she had forgotten about me. She apologized and I accepted her apology. But, she did follow through with the PIF. I got this awesome package in yesterday's mail from 123stitch.com from Evalina...

No Frogging Allowed by Stitchy Kitty & the JABC buttons

Frech Country Squirrel by JBW & the WDW threads

Mill Hill Beads for Dance of the Tulips by Glendon Place

Cat Lessons

I am so close to being done with Cat Lessons but I ran out of WDW-Swiss Chocolate. I ordered another skein and this project will have to wait until it arrives to be completed. Here is my progress as of this afternoon...

De-Stashing

I recently cleaned and straightened my craft room. Mind you, I do more than cross stitch. If you haven't done so already, take a peek at my For Sale or Trade blog. The link is in my sidebar. I have many Stampin' Up stamp sets and sewing patterns, both new and gently used, that I've added to my FSOT blog.

I'm off to start stitching on my March Britty Kitty.

Happy Stitching

The Mother of All Posts

2011-08-22T20:15:00.000-07:00

**Warning - This post is long, covers a lot and is picture heavy. If you make it to the end thank you for sticking with me. And, don't forget, I love comments.**

PIFs/Stitchy Finishes
Before I share my finishes I must ~~bitch~~ vent. Early in 2010 I won a Stitchy PIF and a 5 Stitchy Item PIF on two separate blogs. To date I still have not received from either person my PIFs. I stuck to my end of the bargains. I ran the PIF Giveaways on my blog and I sent to the winners. Grant it, I slacked off on the Stitchy PIF Giveaway. This is where my finishes come in. I just finished the three Stitchy PIFs this past July. Yes, I was 4 months late on the 365 day deadline. I was kinda holding off because I was ~~pissed~~ upset that I hadn't received mine that I won. Then my concience kicked in and I decided just because I was wronged I didn't want to wrong those that won the Giveaways on my blog. So, since they've all happily made it to their new owners, here are my three recent Stitchy PIF finishes.

Flower Pillow

Pattern from June 2009 Cross Stitcher Magazine

Stitched with DMC floss on 28ct White Lugana

Misc. fabric and rick-rack from my stash

New Owner - Marl

Finished July 23, 2011

Bra Wall Hanging

Pattern from Issue 166 of World of Cross Stitching Magazine

Stitched with DMC floss on 28ct Dark Lilac Linen

Fabric and ribbon from my stash.

New Owner - Debbie Jo

Finished on July 29th, 2011

Friendship Ornament

Pattern from Issue 166 of World of Cross Stitching Magazine

Stitched with DMC threads on hand dyed fabric from Meari.

Fabric and trim from my stash.

New Owner - Rhonda

Finished July 29th, 2011

I just hope that someday I'll receive my Stitchy PIF and 5 Item PIF. I've learned my lesson the hard way though, I will never trust a PIF Giveaway ever again.

Secret Pen Pal Exchange

I joined a 5 month long Secret Pen Pal Exchange on Parsley's Blog. At the beginning of each month you send to your Pen Pal keeping your identity a Secret until the 5th month, which just so happens to be December. I'm late in updating of my receipt but I received mine earlier this month. My Secret Pen Pal sent me some adorable stitckers along with a lovely letter. Since her return address was on the envelope I plan on answering her letter before this month is over.

August Secret Pen Pal Letter

Squirrel Hunting in the Park

My parents recently came up to visit for the day and we went to the park at the State Capital. There used to be millions upon millions of squirrels to feed and play with. They were very friendly squirrels that would come right up to you and eat the nuts right out of your hand. Now there are barely any to be found and they are very careful about approaching humans. It's sad because they have always been my favorite part about visiting the park. Well, here are some pics to enjoy.

That's My Daddy!!

Milestones

Many of you know of the trials and tribulations we are getting ready to experience with Connor getting orthodontic work started this month. Well, we were originally preparing to have to have his 4 top front baby teeth surgically removed because they were not coming loose on their own. It was awesome in July when Connor came up to me and showed me that they were, indeed, loose!! It's August and now 2 of the 4 teeth are gone. Here are some pics of his fabulous little smile. Notice in the last pic how high the roof of his mouth is. That there is a big part of the problem that the orthondontia will fix.

Lost Tooth #5

Lost Tooth #6

The First Day of 2nd Grade

The day has come and gone but there are always pictures to enjoy. Here is Connor ready for his first day of 2nd Grade.

And then there was...

My burn. I mentioned it on a couple of the Yahoo Groups I belong to. I was making breakfast recently and I stretched my short arm over the frying pan to reach my tongs and my wrist bumped into the pan. As I pulled my arm away the pan came with it. OUCH!! I am happy to report that it isn't scaring that bad, only I can see where it happened. It's hard to tell by the pic but the burn was approx. 3 inches long. But recovery was 3 weeks long...

Giveaways

Sharon over at Daffycat is having an End of Summer Giveaway that ends on Tuesday, August 23rd.

Sarah over at Craftymoo is having a Holiday Giveaway that ends on August 29th.

Lynn over at Happiness is cross stitching is having a yummy giveaway that ends on August 28th.

I will say good-bye for now. I am off to finally start stitching again. I haven't picked up my needle and thread since the end of July. I am going to work on Lizzie Kate's Cat Lessons until it is complete.

Stitchy Hugs

Birthday Giveaway

2011-07-28T07:18:00.000-07:00

Kate over at The Flying Needle is having a gift certificate giveaway for her 42nd birthday on August 3rd! Stop on by an enter in the giveaway before August 7th.

Time Flew Away From Me Again...

2011-07-23T13:58:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it has been a month, plus one day, since I lasted updated my blog. Shame on me. The good news is that I do have things to share.

Stitchy Finishes
I have finished 2 of the Monthly Britty Kitty Designs since my last update.

January Britty Kitty

by Brittercup Designs

Stitched on 32ct Summer Sky Jobelan

Using recommended floss

Completed 6/30/2011

February Britty Kitty

by Brittercup Designs

Stitched on 32ct Summer Sky Jobelan

Using recommened floss

Completed 7/6/2011

Only 8 more months to stitch before I am done with this series!

Lizzie Kate Stamps WIP

I am very happy to say that I am making progress on my banner.

April Stamp

Completed 7/4/2011

May Stamp

Completed 7/6/2011

Overall Banner Progress

I don't think I'll be able to fit the whole banner into one photo in my next update?!?!

What's up on the stitchy front now?

I am almost done with 3 stitchy PIFs that are way past due. More on those in a future post once they are received by their owners.

My Cutie Pie

What's an update without a picture of my Connor. Earlier this month he was invited to a double birthday party. Brother and sister, both a few months apart on the calendar, had their combo party at a local ice skating rink. Connor dressed himself and I couldn't help but take a picture. It's hard to believe he is only 7 and going into 2nd grade next month!

The Weather

Well, I guess I can't complain much since I do live in Northern California. Normally we are battling triple digits at this point. I don't even want to think when those will come. For about 2 and 1/2 weeks we were lucky to have highs in the low 80s. Most days I didn't have to turn on the a/c during the heat of the day. If I opened the windows at the front of the house and closed all the curtains at the back of the house I could keep the house cool with the floor fan in our living room. Now, not so much. We are in a possibly 3 week long stretch of high 90s. It doesn't cool off enough in the evening to turn off the a/c and open the house for fresh air. By 10am it is already in the high 80s...needless to say I am not loving the weather. Fall cannot come quick enough for me.

School

Yes, Connor will be starting 2nd grade. School actually starts on Wednesday, August 3rd. The same day as my wedding anniversary. I am really looking forward to seeing who his teacher will be this year.

I have been working hard this past week preparing PTA stuff for the new school year. I still don't feel ready, lol.

Giveaways

Parsley over at Seasons of My Mind is having an awesome Christmas In July Giveaway!!

Gabi over at Lady of the Floss is having a fabulous Blogoversary Giveaway!!

Until next time...may your floss never tangle and your needle always be sharp!

A Weekend of Stitching

2011-06-22T12:54:00.000-07:00

On Friday I picked up my Cat Lessons for People by Lizzie Kate. I finished another row in this piece as of Saturday afternoon. Here is the progress to date.

After finishing the third row of Cat Lessons I was itching to stitch another of the Monthly Stamps on my banner. I finished March on Monday.

I have now picked up the January Britty Kitty my Britter Cup Designs. No progress pick, but I'll post the finish when it is done, should be this weekend or sooner. Now that the wedding piece is done I find I am back to my old habit of only stitching on a project for a few days and then putting it aside to stitch a bit on something else. This keeps me wanting to stitch on each piece as I don't get bored with them too quickly. By July I hope to also start stitching on Summer Time by Sue Hillis Designs. I have all four seasons and I hope to stitch them all before the end of the year. With no other time sensitive big pieces to do for the rest of this year I feel I can accomplish finishing my Lizzie Kate Stamps Banner, Cat Lessons, all of the Monthly Britty Kitties and the seasons from Sue Hillis. Wish me luck with that, lol!!

Yesterday we hit a high of 105 degrees. Today is supposed to be even warmer!! Ugh, I hope the forecst of high 80s comes true this weekend. I hate anything over 78 degrees but triple digits make me wish for high 80s...

Spring Time Complete!!

2011-06-17T16:33:00.000-07:00

I just finished the ironing and blocking! I am so excited to have completed this piece. I now have to find the perfect frame!

Before the backstitching...

Spring Time by Sue Hillis Designs

Stitched on 28 ct Antique WHite Lugana

With DMC threads

I'll be picking up my Lizzie Kate Cat Lessons for People next.

A Finish, An Exchange and more...

2011-06-17T10:02:00.000-07:00

A Finish

Nope, it's not Spring Time. Not quite yet, lol! I made a knob knocker for an exchange on ILCS.

Good Things by Lizzie Kate

Stitched with DMC threads on

28 ct Natural Cashel Linen

Funky Fabric I found for the backside!

An Exchange

Meari ran a Lizzie Kate Exchange on ILCS. I was partnered up with Sue.

The complete exchange I sent Sue.

Adorable ornie Sue sent me.

Love the hummingbird charm!

Also from Sue...

GAST in Melon Patch, Berry Cobbler and Green Apple!

The More

I am about 85% done with the backstitching on Spring Time by Sue Hillis. I will be stitching on this todxay and through the weekend until I get it done. Will post pics as soon as I am done with it.

The Weather

Can't help but complain a bit about our weather. We are having our first mini heatwave of the season. It has been in the high 90s all week long and I am thoroughly sick of it. This extreme heat makes me sick, literally. I am constantly tired and have no energy. I hope it cools down next week. I haven't watched the nightly news in a few days to see the forecast. Will have to stay awake for it tonight.

Happy Father's Day to all the Dads, Grandpas, Uncles, etc out there. You all deserve a day off, now and then, lol!!

Better Late Than Never...

2011-06-07T07:53:00.000-07:00

I was planning on updating my blog last week, but hubby was home on vacation all of last week so, of course, I got nothing done on my "to do" list. So here goes...

Spring Time Update

I finished all of the cross stitches on Spring Time by Sue Hillis Designs. All that remains is the backstitching and it is finished. I have set it aside to work on an exchange piece and then I'll pick it up again. Here it is since finishing the cross stitches on May 30th!

A Gift Received

I had mentioned in a previous post that I had a stitchy finish I couldn't show you until it reached its new owner. I run a pen pal group on yahoo and I have 2 friends that I hold very close to my heart. I stitched a pen pal booklet for both of them. I used the same design for both but I changed up the fabric color. Unfortuntaley I was in such a hurry to mail one of them off that I forgot to take a picture of it. But, I did remember to take a pic of the second one before I sealed the envelope.

Freebie design by Lucie Heaton

Stitched with DMC threads

on misc fabric in my stash.

Cording made with corresponding

DMC threads.

An Exchange

We had a Spring/Summer Exchange on the CSE yahoo group. It was a fun exchange to shop for and I once again forgot to take a picture before mailing it off. But, here are the goodies I received from Nancy!

28ct Angel Dreams by Sugar Maple Fabrics,

28ct Lugana Fairy Dust by Zweigart,

Star Detailor &

Kitty Needle Minder by Kelmscott Designs

The Weather

Mother Nature is in a major state of confusion. It felt like March and rained off and on for the past 10 days. Temps have been in the low 60s. Today it is supposed to jump to 80 degrees. I'll believe it when I see it. The only good that I can get out of this weather is that the longer it stays cooler the less of a chance we'll have triple digits this summer. Last year we had 10 days straight of daytime highs around 110F and nightime lows around 90F. Not fun and I don't want a repeat of that ever again.

Well, Connor just woke up so I'll go for now.

Happy Stitching to You!

Spring Time Update and more...

2011-05-20T21:04:00.000-07:00

Weather

The crazy weather has calmed down and it seems that we are back on track for Springtime. I am so glad that it has stopped raining. For 3 days if you looked outside you would have sworn it was January, ugh, in May.

Spring Time Update

I've been working a little each day on my Sue Hillis WIP Spring Time. I put the final stitches in the tulips this evening. Now on to the watering can and the rest of the design.

Progress as of 5/20/2011

Game Prize

On the CSE Yahoo Group we play a Name That Word game. I won Barb's word and she sent me the best prize. It's a Brass Stitchable Bookmark Kit from Bucilla. The pattern is for a name but I can tell already that mine won't fit so I am thinking of using my initials. This is awesome as I've seen other stitchers post finishes of these but I've never found the kits anywhere in my area.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend and many lovely hours of stitching time. I plan to keep working on Spring Time. But the family and I do plan to get outside into this lovely weather and go to the auction.

Blah, blah, blah

2011-05-15T14:42:00.000-07:00

Like the title of this post? I am suffering from writer's block and just have no idea what to title this update...

Framed

I picked up the frame yesterday for Love is Patient. Here it is in all it's glory.

When I picked up the framing I was able to talk to the main guy that runs the framing department. He asked me why I didn't let them mount and frame my cross stitch. I told him I am leery. He explained that they have only one lady that mounts and frames all needlework. She is also a cross stitch connoisseur. They call her the Needlework Framing Whisperer! I think I will try it out with the next piece I need framed. We'll see what happens.

Spring Time

I've been working on this Sue Hillis Design a bit each night and I am satisfied with the progress I am making on this piece. Here is my progress as of last night.

Weather

I thought Spring was here but you wouldn't be able to tell with the weather we've been having last night and today. It got down right chilly last night. I had to add a blanket to my bed. Then at some point in the middle of the night it poured down rain so hard it woke Paul up. I had to run to the grocery store this morning and I got caught in a thunder/lightening storm with dime size hail. Totally not usual for the Sacramento Area. It's getting well into the afternoon now and it is only 57 degrees ~~Celsius~~ Farenheit (sorry, having a headache and blogging should not me combined, lol!). We had days hitting the 80s this past week. Ugh...where did Spring go?

Big Finish and Other Stitching

2011-05-05T17:45:00.000-07:00

Love is Patient

I can't believe I got it done with plenty of time to get a custom frame made and ship it still in time for the wedding. I finished putting the beads and charms on this morning.

Love is Patient by Stoney Creek

Stitched on 28ct Antique White Cashel Linen

With DMC threads, Glissen Gloss

and Mill Hill Beads and Charms

I'll post more pictures of this once I have it framed.

Other Stitchy Updates

Here is my most recent picture of the progress I've made on Cat Lessons for People by Lizzie Kate. I haven't touched it since 4/6/2011. Now that Love is Patient is complete I plan to pick this one up weekly.

I don't know whatever happened to my January Stamp by Lizzie Kate picture. But as of early April I finished February. So here is an update of my wall hanging.

I have a couple of little finishes but they are surprises so I can't share them until they make it to their new homes.

What Next

I now plan on finishing Spring Time by Sue Hillis Designs while also working on all of the monthly projects I have like the wall hanging above, the Britty Kitty Series and the LHN 2010 Ornaments I haven't completed yet.

I've decided that I won't be able to stitch the Precious Moments Wedding piece for this December but I will start it sometime this year to give as an anniversary present in Decemeber 2012. Thank you to everyone who took part in my fabric voting for this piece. I am going to order the winner "Chrysalis" from Picture This Plus.

School is coming to an end so I will be more actively posting on my blog once we get into our summer schedule of activities.

Happy Cinco De Mayo!!

Opinions Needed

2011-03-20T11:07:00.000-07:00

I am reaching out to all of you, my stitchy friends, for help choosing which color fabric would be perfect for this pattern I am going to stitch for my Aunt and Uncle's Wedding Anniversary. This piece matches their wedding cake topper.

There is a poll to the left to cast your vote on which fabric you would choose to stitch this piece on. Keep in mind that the groom's tux is actually a very light pearl gray (DMC 762) and the bride's dress is DMC cotton white while her veil is DMC Satin white.

Here is the pattern...

Here are the fabric choices...

Aerial

by Picture this Plus

Chrysalis

by Picture this Plus

Confetti

by Picture this Plus

Dew Drop

by Silkweaver

Dusk

by Silkweaver

Jamaica Sunset

by Silkweaver

Summer Sunset

by Silkweaver

Valor

by Picture this Plus

Now help me out. Go vote for your favorite. I'll leave the poll open until Friday, March 25th. Thank you everyone for you help!

Lotsa Stuff

2011-03-18T17:14:00.000-07:00

I want to take a moment to warn you that this is a picture heavy post with lots of updates, some cross stitch but some not. You may want to take a potty break and get a snack before you start reading...

Stitchy Updates

Love is Patient

I have been working primarily on this piece. (1) Because it is a deadline piece and (2) because it is turning out to be a pretty quick stitch. I am running out of the Glissen Gloss Rainbow Blending Filament and will be placing an order for more tonight.

Progress as of 3/17/2011

Cat Lessons For People
I am stitching this one as a SAL with other members of the CSE yahoo group. I finished the first row and plan to stitch more on this while I wait for my Glissen Gloss order to come in.

by Lizzie Kate

Stitched on recommended fabric with

recommended fibers

progress as of 3/6/2011

Strawberry Fairy

In November of last year I finished stitching my Strawberry Fairy. I wanted to make this into a flatfold but couldn't find the perfect fabric for it. I was thankfully RAKed by Rita with awesome fabric to finish this piece. I also used a "new for me" technique called ruched ribbon for the edge embellishment. Here are some before and after photos.

WWE Update

As promised, Paul finished editing the photos from February's WWE Smackdown. Enjoy!!

In the car..."Are we there yet?"

"I am so ready for the main event!"

"Eat your heart out!"

Chillin' in line with Mommy.

The entrance stage.

This is a huge 3-D structure hanging from the ceiling

advertising the upcoming WrestleMania.

Chris Masters

The Big Show dealing with The Corre

Take that Wade Barrett!

We Love to see the Good Guy kick the Bad Guy's Butt!!

Kelly Kelly getting ready to spear Vickie Guerrero!

The Rated "R" Superstar

Edge

"Hi Daddy"

Kane giving Rey Mysterio a bear hug.

Yeah, this is gonna hurt a little.

Look Mom, I'm Flying!!

That was fun!!

Connor's Birthday

Connor turned 7 on the 11th of March. I went to his school with cookies for his classmates. His teacher, Miss Tarner, has a tradition of putting the birthday boy/girl in front of the class with a birthday sticker and pencil then all of the kids sing-a-long with a happy birthday cd.

Once Paul got home from work he opened some of his presents.

I love the fact that he can read his own cards now.

He's really into Legos right now and they have a full length movie about

a super hero named Clutch Powers. It is a really cute movie.

The next day my folks came up to celebrate the big day.

Woo-Hoo, Lego City Firestation!!

What could this be?

Lego City Airport!!

Oh My Goodness!!

Let the building begin...

Gotta organize all the pieces first...

Connor and my Dad

Paul, looks like he's thinking way too hard.

My favorite part!

I wonder what he wished for?

Well, if you've made it this far thank you and I hope you enjoyed all the updates and pictures.

This Sunday Connor is having his birthday party at the bowling alley so I am sure that early next week I'll have another picture heavy update with all of the festivities.

Tonight I am going to work on my L*K Stamp piece. I know this is an on-the-go project but there hasn't been enough lighting at the bowling alley to get any stitching done and I really want to hang this up sometime before the end of the year.

Hugs and Stitches...

Where did February go...

2011-02-28T17:10:00.000-08:00

Is it just me or did the month of February fly by in the blink of an eye? I think it did!

ILCS Froggy Exchange

Nancy received the package I sent her in this exchange so now I get to share pics of the goodies with you.

This is the ornie I stitched for the exchange.

It is a freebie by Casey Buonaugurio found here.

Here are some close-ups of the pillow before I made my own cording (for the first time ever) and made it into the ornie it is now.

WIPs

At the end of my last post I mentioned that I was taking a break from my big projects and starting something simpler. I started working on Spring Time by Sue Hillis Designs that very night and here is my progress as of February 26th.

I picked up Love is Patient this past weekend and stitched my heart out. This piece is daunting as the columns are stitched using 2 strands of Glisson Gloss blending filament and 1 strand of DMC. All I can say is "Thank goodness for Thread Heaven!!"

And here is a close up...

Framed & Hung

I finished stitching these last year and then I got the frames made sometime around...I don't remember when, LOL!! This past week I finally framed them and they are now hanging in Connor's bathroom. Sorry about the pics but the lighting in his bathroom is awkward.

WWE Smackdown

We had a blast and Connor was thrilled about the entire night. Paul took tons of pics but he needs to "fix" them because the lighting in the arena was weird. I will post pics once Paul is done with them.

What's Up Next

Glenda and I are both stitching Lizzie Kate's "Cat Lessons for People". We start our SAL tomorrow, March 1st. I have everything ready to go. Once I get home from monthly grocery shopping I'll be stitching away on this cute pattern.

Thank you to everyone who has left comments on my posts. I truly appreciate your input and your praise.

Stitchy Hugs...

Long Overdue Update

2011-02-20T17:33:00.000-08:00

Weight Loss...

It isn't coming off. I started by walking every day at least 2 miles, sometimes 3. I've almost totally cut caffeine and sugar out of my life. But have I lost weight. Nope. I was off to a great start. The first week of walking I lost almost a full 3 pounds. Now I am back to where I started the year at. I still have 50 pounds to lose by the end of this year. I need to rethink my approach and make some other changes to my eating habits. I am not giving up. I have fought this battle for to many years and I am tired of letting it run my life.

Weather

We were enjoying some beautiful 70 degree F days. Almost a week of them. Then the rainy season official hit Northern California. Friday night the snow levels dropped to 1,000 feet. We are located at about 120 feet so no chance of seeing the white stuff here, darn it :) The highs are now in the 50s and my hands and feet never seem to warm up. Let's hope Spring arrives on time this year.

Family

Connor just finished his 2nd trimester of 1st grade. He had excellent marks on his report card. He is thoroughly enjoying school. He talks about 2nd grade all of the time. I tell him to slow down. Enjoy it while you can, lol!

He is excelling at bowling. We just moved him up to a heavy 8 pound ball. Connor was thoroughly excited when he got it as it is orange and black flames, kinda reminds me of Harley Davidson designs. He decided that he wants to have a bowling party for his birthday next month.

Connor will be 7 years old on March 11th. My little boy is growing up way too fast. We measured him the other day and he is 3 feet 11 inches tall. I am in big trouble. I am only 5 feet 1 inch tall. Before long I'll be asking him to reach stuff on the higher shelves for me :)

Froggy Exchange

I received the most wonderful exchange package for the ILCS Froggy Exchange from Nancy in Las Vegas. She spoiled me rotten. Nancy made me a gorgeous box with froggy design on the lid and included 6 skeins of thread inside.

Madarin Floss (red and aqua), Wisper (white fuzzy), WDW Envy,

Valdani Pond Ripple, Gentle Art Simply Wool Hyacinth

Stitchy Finishes

This first finish was is a Lizzie Kate piece I stitched in 2010 but I just got around to making it into a no sew cube earlier this month.

I started working on the Britter Cup Monthly Series some time last year but I never finished the one I started. Now I've completed 2 of them. I am using the fabric and threads recommended in the patterns. I am going to wait until I am done stitching them all before assembling them into individual wall hangings with seasonal fabrics.

September Britty Kitty

October Britty Kitty

This next piece I made for Connor's 1st grade teacher as her end of school year present. For once I got something with a deadline done early! I order the Mill Hill frame from 123stitch and it turned out fabulous.

Checkerboard III by Mill Hill (kit)

Stitchy WIPs

One of the yahoo groups I belong to, CCS, is having a RMC SAL. Rocky Mountain Christmas by Marty Bell. I started this piece on New Year's Day but I haven't done much to it since.

Progress Update 1/4/2011

I offically now have a travel piece I am working on. I have all of the Lizzie Kate Monthly Stamps and I am stitching them on banding. Once completed this will be a whopper of a wall hanging. I mainly only work on this one while Connor is bowling league on Wednesday afternoons so not much to show yet.

January Stamp

Progress 2/16/2011

My cousin Corey is getting married in June and I am stitching a Stoney Creek pattern for his wedding present. I started this on Superbowl Sunday and have made decent progress so far. The picture doesn't do it much justice. There is a shimmery blending filament in the heart that makes it sparkle when the light hits it just right.

Love is Patient

Progress 2/20/2011

Well, I feel the urge to start a new project so tonight I am going to pull the threads and start working on Spring Time by Sue Hillis Designs.

Connor has this next week off from school so I don't know how much of anything I might get done. We are taking him to Arco Arena for WWE Smackdown this Tuesday. He is really excited and hopes to see The Rock since he just made his return onto Monday Night RAW with the announcement that he will host this year's WrestleMania!!

Happy Stitching to all and until next time...

You Will Be Missed...

2011-01-09T16:43:00.000-08:00

I was getting ready to post a stitchy update when I got some very sad news. A dear friend to many of us has passed away. Rene la Frog was a beautiful, caring, thoughtful person and she touched many of our lives in the stitching community. Over the past couple of years I've grown very close to Rene. She was always so easy to talk to, both on and off of our yahoo groups. She was always willing to lend a hand, suggestion, help in any way she could. I will miss her tremendously. I don't think I'll ever pick up a needle and thread again without remembering Rene. The only good that comes from Rene's passing is the knowing that she is no longer in any pain.

I am sending a hug to all of my stitching sisters and brothers, may we be able to console each other during this sad time.

A New Year, A Fresh New Look

2011-01-01T19:43:00.000-08:00

Welcome to 2011. Fasten your seatbelt and make sure that your tray tables are in the upright position. Enjoy the ride...

With the ringing in of the new year I decided to update the look of my blog with something fresh and new. I have also added a fitness weight loss ticker in my sidebar.

I am one of the many stricken with a life long battle of the bulge. I am a mear 5 ft 1 in tall and have now almost returned to my highest weight of 200 pounds. When I stepped on the scale this morning it totalled out at 199.4 pounds! UGH... Many of us make the annual resolution to loose weight. This is going to be THE year I actually succeed. I have made the following oath to myself...

"When I step on the scale on December 31, 2011 I will weigh no more than 150 pounds."

If I happen to go below 150 pounds in weight that is great but 150 is my ultimate goal for the next 12 months. According to those loisy charts the doctors swear by I should only weigh 120 pounds at the most. When I graduated from High School back in 1995 I weighed 145 pounds. At the time, I thought I was fat. But now I look back at pictures of me and my friends and I realize I looked damn good. My friends were all anorexic and boney looking. I don't want to see my ribs, yuck!

This blog has blossomed in to more than just my love of cross stitch and crafts in general. I would like you to continue to follow my journey as I also blog about my trials and tribulations as I work to get to my goal weight.

Final Completions of 2010

2010-12-31T23:26:00.000-08:00

I put in the final stitches of my Stargazer Lily on Wednesday evening. I squeeled with joy and did a Happy Dance!! The picture is clickable. Unfortunately the camera doesn't do a great job picking up the opalescents of the fabric and the outer edges of the petals are stitched with DMC Light Effects.

Stargazer Lily

from CrossStitcher Magazine

August 2007 Issue

Stitched on ???

with DMC cotton and light effects

to be finished into a wall hanging

The rest of these finishes happened this evening. All of them are from the Little House Needleworks "All Dolled Up" 2010 Ornament Series. I have a few more to stitch but that is okay. I used the recommened fabric, fibers and pretties.

The Merry Skater

Snowy Pines

Winter Sheep

Fa-La-La

He's A Flake

I want to thank you, one and all, for following through this past year. It has definitely had it's ups and downs. But, with no regrets, I move on.

Happy New Year 2011!!!

Stargazer Update & More Christmas

2010-12-28T21:25:00.000-08:00

My Stargazer Lily

I last updated on my Lily back in June of this year. I have been working on this since 2009. It is for me, so of course it gets pushed to the side for gifts, exchanges, etc.

Here is how we last left my Lily.

And here is how it looks as of this evening.

I think it will be all done by tomorrow evening!! I am still undecided on how I will finish this off. I am thinking of making it into a tote bag front. Any suggestions?

More Christmas

I previously posted about how Paul spoiled me for my birthday earlier this month. Well, he outdid himself once again on Christmas Day. I got an iPod and a Sony Speaker Docking Station! I also got 2 "A Christmas Story" t-shirts. This is my all-time favorite Christmas movie. I know the entire script by heart. We can watch it and mute the volume and I can recite the words for you! One shirt has the "Leg Lamp" and it says "It's a Major Award". The second shirt has Ralphie on it and says "I Shot My Eye Out". I got more stuff but these topped the cake for me.

Connor was spoiled, too, of course. The luck of being an only child. This past year he has become fasinated with WWE wrestling. He wrote a wish list to Santa and the top items on the list were some of the WWE belts. Here is Connor in his Champion Glory.

Etc...

I have my Little House Needlework ornaments to finish stitching this week. I think I have 4 of them complete except for the beads and then the other 8 to start and finish before the ball drops on New Year's Eve.

I am so excited that on Thursday I am going to meet up with my friend Lisa!! She is back in the States just for the holidays and then back to Cambodia she goes :(

Check out my Stitching Goals for 2011 in my sidebar. Is there anything there you will also be stitching? Drop me a line if there is, maybe we can stitch them together in a SAL.

Exchange Finale, Connor's Stitching & a Stitch-A-Thon

2010-12-26T19:37:00.000-08:00

CSE Advent Exchange Finale

Yesterday was the final day for the CSE Advent Exchange. Below are pictures of what I recieved during days 17 through 25.

Day 17 - Hard Candies

Day 18 - Do It Yourself...Christmas Garland kit

Day 19 - Moose Ornament

Day 20 - Fabric

Day 21 - Mint filled Dark Chocolate Frogs

Day 22 - DMC Mini Kit (Cyclamen)

Day 23 - Gnome Ornaments (in Santa Box)

Day 24 - Christmas Fabric

Day 25 - Fazermint Chocolate Cremes

Thank you Helle for such a fabulous exchange. I thoroughly enjoyed opening my presents each day. I hope you had a very Merry Christmas.

Connor's Stitching

Connor finished stitching his little car kit just in time to give it to his Grandpa, my Dad, for Christmas. This time I remembered to get pictures of Grandpa with his present (unlike when he opened his Harley Davidson present).

Connor's Car

Completed 12/24/2010

Connor & Grandpa

Christmas Day 2010

A Stitch-A-Thon

Many of us members of the ILCS Yahoo Group are extremely upset by the news of our dear stitching friend Rene la Frog being in the ICU. To pay tribute to Rene and her love of stitching I suggested a week-long stitch-a-thon. Many have jumped on board with me. Over the past few days I have finished all of the Mill Hill Charmed Instrument Ornaments.

Mandolin

By Mill Hill

Completed 12/21/2010

French Horn

By Mill Hill

Completed 12/21/2010

Trumpet

By Mill Hill

Completed 12/23/2010

Violin

By Mill Hill

Completed 12/24/2010

I also finished up a bookmark for my friend, Rebecca. She is a huge Tigger fan.

Tigger Bookmark

From Pooh & Friends Bookmark Kit

By Janlynn

Completed 12/22/2010

I have been working on the metallic edges of the petals on my Stargazer Lily. It is moving along much quicker than I anticipated. Whether I'm done or not I plan on sharing an update pic sometime on Tuesday.

I'll talk more about Christmas Day and what not in my next post.

Happy Stitching...

An Exchange, a Present and Shopping

2010-12-17T11:55:00.000-08:00

CSE Advent Exchange

I've laxxed on my updates for this and I apologize, especially to Helle who took the time to pick these items out for me. I truly appreciate and love this exchange.

Day 11 - Elf Decoration Kit to Make

Day 12 - Handmade needlebook

Day 13 - Ornament Set (Boy and Girl)

Day 14 - Ornament Kit by the New Berlin Co.

Day 15 - Stocking Ornament

Day 16 - Opalescent Fabric w/gold filaments & skeins of floss

ILCS Birthday Club

Melinda had previously emailed me letting me know that along with the 123stitch gift certificate I received from her to also be expecting something in the mail. In yesterday's mail I was surprised with this lovely birthday card and beautiful scissor fob. Sorry, the picture does not do the fob the justice it deserves.

Shopping Spree

I went on a grand shopping spree at 123stitch with all of the wonderful gift certificates I received for my birthday. My package arrived yesterday afternoon and here are the goodies I got.

Stitch Fixer, Custom Corder,

Spirit of Christmas Past & Present Patterns

from Brooke's Books Publishing,

Mini Block Bowling Pattern w/charms

from Hinzeit, School Pictures Magnet Kit

from Mill Hill, Checkerboard III kit from Mill Hill

28 ct Antique White Cashel Linen and

Mill Hill Glass Treasures

(supplies to make Love is Patient by Stoney Creek,

wedding present for my Cousin)

32 ct Stormy Skies Lugana

(fabric for Rocky Mountain Christmas

by Marty Bell)

Snowman Trio Pattern by

Stitchy Kitty, 28 ct BlueBell Jobelan,

WDW & GAST threads

WDW & Crescent Colours

to complete

Uber JAck by Bent Creek

and

Cat Lessons for People by Lizzie Kate

I hope to have at least one stitchy finish to share with you in my next post.

Happy Holidays!!

My Birthday Presents and a couple of Exchanges

2010-12-11T17:26:00.000-08:00

I belong to the ILCS Birthday Club and yesterday was my birthday. I hit the big 3 - 4, lol!!

I received many gift certificates to shop at 123stitch, even from my folks. I did receive a couple of wonderful packages in the mail, too.

From Lisa

Friendship teenie kit by The Sweetheart Tree,

handmade scissor fob and frogging needle

The scissor fob is personalized with stones from Paul,

Connor and mine birth months. Plus some awesome

Sagitarrius charms.

The frogging needle has a lighthouse charm that looks

just like the haunted lighthouse in one of my most favorite

episodes of Ghost Hunters.

From Debbie Jo

Cat Lessons for People by Lizzie Kate and

the 32 count natural light linen for this piece.

Connor got me a 1:23 scale Pretzel M&M Kyle Busch Race Car, a Kyle Busch Halloween T-shirt and a Harry Potter game for the Nintendo DS.

Paul spoiled me to no end. A couple of weeks ago he splurged on an Ott-Light for me while we were at JoAnn's. They were having a 50% off sale and I had a coupon for an additional 20% off my entire purchase. I got this awesome lamp for around $120, regular price $280!!

Oh, and there is more...he bought me my first ever laptop! Now I don't have to keep leaving my stitching chair everytime I want to chat with my online groups or read blogs. I can do it all from the comfort of my sofa now, yippee!!

He also got me this gorgeous pea-coat.

And then had fun taking my photo a few more times.

Advent Exchange

Day 5 - Santa Claus Kitchen Towel

Day 6 - Metallic Candy Cane garland

Day 7 - Festive Napkins

Day 8 - Christmas Stocking ornament

Day 9 - Weekender Kit

Day 10 - Santa Apron, cookie cutters, threads,

packages and recipe for making Danish cookies.

Sock It To Me Santa Exchange

From the ILCS group, Meari held the annual Sock It To Me Santa Exchange. Emily got my name and here are the lovely items she surprised me with.

Snowflake knee high socks, flavored teas,

"Eat Dessert First" Mill Hill kit and

Lizzie Kate's Tiny Tidings VIII

My hope is that everyone is having a wonderful holiday season. I have been sick with a chest cold and my asthma flaring up these past 3 days. But, I've managed to finish my Christmas shopping and wrap all of the presents. Each night Paul and I relax in the living room by the sparkling lights of our Christmas Tree.

Happy Holidays and Stitchy Hugs to All!!

Advent Exchange & a RAK

2010-12-04T13:30:00.000-08:00

One of the Yahoo Groups I belong to is holding an Advent Exchange this holiday season. I was lucky to receive a large package of presents from Helle in Denmark. Along with my 25 individually wrapped presents was included a Disney chocolate Advent Calendar, a cute Advent Candle, a Christmas CD Card and many yummy marzipan chocolates.

Paul had my camera at work for a couple of days so here are the first four days of goodies I received.

Day #1 - Skovbaer Tea

Day #2 - Marcipanbrod (Chocolate covered marzipan with nougat)

Day #3 - Red Ribband bookmark fabric, package of needles,

5 skeins of variegated threads

Day #4 - DMC Color Variations bookmark kit

A RAK!
In my last post I mentioned that I am having great difficulty finding fabric with realistic strawberries on it for finishing my Strawberry Fairy into a flatfold. Rita, from my Monopoly SAL group, was extremely kind enough to RAK me this large piece of fabric that will be perfect for my finish. I will post an update on it once I have it completely assembled.

A Winner, Stitching Fun, a Surprise in the Mail and Finishes Galore

2010-11-28T18:49:00.000-08:00

A Winner

On the 24th of November Paul picked the winner of the Neuschwanstein Castle Birthday Giveaway. Congratulations to...

Crafty Peg

I will be contacting you via e-mail for your mailing address.

Stitching Fun

On a recent trip to my not-so-local needlework shop Connor picked out a kit for kids to stitch. It is labeled for 8 years and up but with my help he is enjoying himself immensely. Here are some pics of my little guy stitching for the very first time.

A Surprise in the Mail

Sharmila, a member of my Monopoly SAL Yahoo Group, sent me a package to thank me for running this group. From India I received a beautiful drawstring bag filled with 2 variegated skeins of Anchor floss, beads, and an adorable wooden keychain that has a mirror on the inside.

Finishes Galore

My parents albsolutely love the Harley Davidson I stitched for their anniversary. I wish I had taken a picture of the look on my Dad's face when he opened the wrapping on it. I honestly haven't seen him that speechless in a really long time. He kept admiring it all weekend.

Harley Davidson - Heritage Softail

by Brenda Franklin Designs

Stitched on 40 ct linen

using DMC threads to match my Parents Motorcycle

framed in chrome with faux leather matting

More pics can be found here.

While framing the Harley Davidson I decided to finally frame a piece I'd finished way back in 2008.

With the Harley Davidson finally behind me I finished up my Strawberry Fairy. I want to finish her as a flatfold but am having trouble finding a yard of strawberry fabric this time of year.

The Strawberry Fairy

by DMC

from July 2004 Issue of CrossStitcher

Stitched on 32 ct Bo-Peep Pink Belfast Linen

with suggested DMC colors

Will finish into a flatfold onec I find the perfect fabric.

I altered the pattern a bit because I eliminated the border.

Click here for more pics.

After my Strawberry Fairy was complete I dug through my current WIP drawer and realized I had one piece left in the set of four I was stitching for Connor's bathroom. I had previously recharted this pattern as it was a girl in a purple tutu and I only have one boy so it is only fitting that his bathroom have little boys not girls in the artwork. I am ordering frames from JoAnn's for the entire set tomorrow morning. I will post more pics once I get them all framed and ready to hang.

Brush Your Teeth

by Calico Crossroads

Stitched on 28ct white Lugana

With suggested DMC colors and WDW - Confetti

To be framed in the near future.

I'm off to work on my Mill Hill Instrument Ornaments now.

Until next time...

Birthday Giveaway!

2010-11-14T00:01:00.000-08:00

In honour of my hubby's 41st birthday I am having a giveaway!!

For Paul's 40th birthday I stitched his favorite castle, Neuschwanstein. Today I am offering the pattern by Heritage Stitchcraft and all of the DMC threads to complete the project. All you have to do is get the fabric.

Giveaway Rules:

You must reply to this post only and don't forget to leave a way for me to contact you. For doing so you get one entry.
If you are already a follower or you become a follower of my blog you will receive a second entry.
If you post about my giveaway on your blog and let me know you will receive yet another entry.
This giveaway is open to anyone, anywhere.
The drawing will take place on November 24th.

Good luck to all who enter.

Been So Busy Stitching I Didn't Want To Blog

2010-11-13T10:16:00.000-08:00

I knew I hadn't blogged in awhile. Haven't had much of a desire to get on the computer much lately. I'd rather be stitching. But I have missed quite a few updates so this is going to be picture heavy.

ILCS Exchanges From October

Perched on a Pumpkin by Blue Ribbon Designs

From JCS 2010 Halloween Issue

Stitched on 28 ct Sage Jobelan

with DMC threads and Mill Hill Beads

Stitched for Jennifer Blake

Stitched a second time for Kelly (ran the exchange)

Finished with a different specialty thread

Received from Jennifer Blake

Adorable Ornie, postcard from Iowa,

patterns, GAST threads (Highland Heather,

Sea Spray, Walnut & Autumn)

Happy Halloween Freebie

Kreinik Website

Stitched on 28 ct opalescent white Cashel

with Carrie's Creation threads

Card also made by me

Stitched for Heidi McJunkin

Received from Heidi McJunkin

Beautiful Card, Nerds on a Rope,

Candied Pumpkins,

Carrie's Creation threads (Fall Splendor,

Lumiere de Cheryl & Wildfire)

ILCS Blind Ornament Exchange

Spool Ornament by Sue Hillis Designs

JCS 2007 Christmas Issue

Stitched on 28 ct opalescent white Cashel

with DMC threads

Cool Christmas by Fresh Threads Studio

JCS 2010 Ornament Preview

Stitched on 28 ct opalescent white Cashel

with DMC threads

For Rene La Frog (ran the exchange)

WIP Updates

Strawberry Fairy as of 11/12/2010

When we go to my folks house I have been

bringing this to work on since they

can't see the Harley yet.

Harley Davidson as of 11/11/2010

I am so close to being done.

The frame and matting are on order.

My parents anniversary is on the 17th

but they won't be up until Thanksgiving,

so I still have plenty of time to finish this!

Come back tomorrow for a giveaway in honour of Paul's 41st birthday!!

The Winner Is...

2010-09-22T09:04:00.000-07:00

My Book Giveaway ended on the 15th and I had Connor pull a winner from the bucket but I am just now getting around to posting the winner. Sorry for being so behind on this. I had all the best intentions but life got really busy.

The winner is...

Carissa

Congratulations!!

I will contact you via email for your mailing address.

Book Giveaway!

2010-09-15T00:00:00.000-07:00

I recently was introduced to a series of books by Monica Ferris. The story is centered around Betsy Devonshire and her sister's Needlework shop "Crewel World".

I haven't been able to stop reading these books. As soon as I finish one I immediately pick up the next book. I don't usually find myself reading books multiple times. Here is where my giveaway comes into play.

Win my entire collection of the first 12 books by Monica Ferris!

Crewel World

Framed in Lace

A Stitch in Time

Unraveled Sleeve

A Murderous Yarn

Hanging By a Thread

Cutwork

Crewel Yule

Embroidered Truths

Sins and Needles

Knitting Bones

Thai Die

Please note that these books are not brand new. They are gently used books.

Rules of the giveaway:

1. Open to anyone in the world. (Note: If you do NOT live in the United States I ask that you help with the cost of shipping overseas. I can accept money via PayPal.) Amended 8/31/2010
2. You must be a follower of my blog.

3. You must leave a 'Love Note' on this post stating that you want to be entered into the drawing and please include your e-mail address.

4. You get 1 entry for your 'Love Note' and you can get a second entry if you post about my giveaway on your blog. Please leave me another 'Love Note' letting me know that you've done this.

5. I will have my son pick a name from the drawing bowl on Wednesday, September 15th!!

Pansy Sampler and Evalina'a Challenge

2010-09-11T16:59:00.000-07:00

Evalina recently posted a challenge on her blog for anyone who was interested to pull out a UFO and work on it until September 12th. I had originally planned on pulling out my Happy Birthday Table Topper but when I went digging in my supply drawer for something I found my Pansy Sampler that I haven't stitched on since January.

Here is where I left it in January.

And here it is now. Stitching is done. I don't have the time yet to make it into a needleroll.

Pansy Sampler

by Victoria Sampler

stitched on 32 ct Antique White Belfast Linen

with DMC threads and perle cottons

to be finished as a needleroll

Harley Progress

2010-09-11T16:33:00.000-07:00

I've been working hard to get this one done by it's deadline. Here is my progress as of the 7th of September.

I have a few more exchange pieces to work on and then I'll be picking this one back up real soon.

Did you think I was gone forever?

2010-08-29T11:20:00.000-07:00

Wow! I cannot believe that it has been over 2 months since I last updated my blog. It's amazing how busy you can get and how fast time can fly when the youngster is on summer break from school. Connor went back to school on August 3rd and I am finally feeling 'caught up' and back to 'normal' again.

This is going to be a lengthy update so you may want to take a potty break and get a drink and/or snack before you proceed.

School

As many of you may know, last school year, while Connor was in Kindergarten I was volunteering in one of the 4th grade classrooms. The teacher was very overwhelmed and unorganized to say the least. I was also a PTA member and the Box Tops Coordinator for the school.

This school year my volunteering has taken on a change of sorts. I am still the Box Tops Coordinator for the school but as of July 1st I am the PTA President for this school year! Talk about a lot of work. I was a little mis-informed of just how busy this new title would keep me. I tend to pay attention to the littlest details and I like to follow the rules and guidelines set forth in any project I take on. Well, lets just say that my predecessor didn't really follow the rules to a "T" and didn't really pay attention to who was doing what and if 'things' were being done properly according to PTA Rules and Guidelines. I spent the last 3 weeks playing clean-up and catch-up and I still have quite a bit to do but I have a better handle on the situation now.

Stitching

On my last post I shared my first photos of my Strawberry Fairy and a piece I am doing for my parents' wedding anniversary in November. Here are some newer updates on both pieces.

Once I pick up my Fairy I have a lot of trouble putting her down. This is progress as of June 25, 2010. She is more than 50% complete. I did put her away after this picture was taken and I haven't stitched on her since. She is for myself so I am not in a huge deadline hurry to complete her.

I had posed the question "What am I?" with my first picture of this piece. Many of you guessed correctly. This is a Harley Davidson 'Heritage Softtail' Motorcycle. This picture is my progress as of July 2, 2010. I didn't do any stitching in July and I just recently picked my needle and threads back up. I will begin posting weekly updates on the Motorcycle from now on as I plan on working on this one as my main project since I need it done and ready to gift by mid-November.

In between stitching on the Motorcycle I have been working on some smaller pieces. Lori and I, a friend from the ILCS Yahoo Group, had a private biscornu exchange to give her a break-in exchange before joining in one an official exchange.

I stitched two different designs in two different shades of some of Lori's favorite colors. These designs are from a larger piece called Patchwork Sampler by Catia Dias.

Side 2.

And here is the beautiful snowflake biscornu that Lori stitched for me. I love the beadwork and the picture doesn't do it the true justice is deserves. It is stitched on an iridescent fabric. It is simply gorgeous and I can't wait to put it on display this winter season.

Side 2.

Meari, ILCS Yahoo Group Moderator, sponsored our annual Bookmark Exchange. We were to stitch a bookmark and include 2 skeins of summer color floss and 2 drink mix packs. I wanted to surprise my recipient so I stitched 2 bookmarks. Carol loves quilts so these are the bookmarks I finished for her.

Bookmark #1

Bookmark #2

And here is the entire package I sent to Carol.

Mark stitched me the most adorable kitty cat bookmark and a lovely beach scene. We've already drank all the yummy kool-aid.

I have begun to stitch the Ornament Series from Little House Needleworks. I am waiting until finishing of each ornie to attach the 'pretties'. I have all of them kitted up and ready to be stitched as I complete other small projects. Here are the ones I have stitched so far.

He's A Flake

Fa-La-La

Snowy Pines

The Merry Skater

I am stitching these on the recommended fabric and with the recommended floss. Karen at Wasatch Needlecraft sells the fabric for these ornies cut to the size needed at very reasonable prices!

My Health

I finally have control of my IBS! It sucks to be on so many prescription drugs for the many ailments I suffer from but I am so happy to be able to go wherever I want, whenever I want and not worry about my bowels all of the time. I have found many trigger items that I have to permanently stay away from but that is easy to do now that my body realizes how good it can feel.

This past Monday I did have a bit of a scare. I went to the dr for some advice on a simple rash. Turns out the rash is actually a form of eczema. I do suffer from extremely sensitive skin so this does not surprise me in the least bit. The scare came when the nurse took my vitals. My heart rate was 152 bpm! The dr had me lie down and rest for about 20 minutes and then they hooked me up to an ekg machine to see how my heart was doing. I was tachycardic and my heart rate was 147! The dr told me to quite all caffeine, nicotine and alcohol and come back next Monday for another check of my vitals. Well, the nicotine and alcohol were simple because I don't drink or smoke anymore anyways. The caffeine was another issue altogether. I had already had my 2 cups of coffee that morning but I didn't drink or eat anything else that was caffeinated. By Tuesday I had a full blown migraine. I felt like my brain wanted out of my skull. Paul ended up taking me to the Emergency Room to get a lovely shot of Toradhal and I have since then drastically cut back on my caffeine intake but I realize I can't quit it cold turkey. I go in to the dr for my vitals check tomorrow morning. We will see how my heart is doing and I'll keep you updated.

Fun Stuff

My Dad bought me my very own motorcycle helmet last weekend. I get to join my parents on the next Ladies of Harley ride they are taking up to the Russian River area in September. Woo-Hoo!! I love riding on the back of my Dad's motorcycle. I will be sure to have Paul take pictures of my on the bike with my Dad. I am so excited!!

Well if you are still reading this I thank you for sticking with me until the end of this lengthy update. Since I was away from blogger-land for so long I think it is only fair to my followers that I host a giveaway sometime in the following week. So keep and eye out for something fun to win!

WIPs and an ILCS Virtual Stitch-In

2010-06-11T16:25:00.000-07:00

When I last visited my Stargazer Lily it was in January of this year. Here is how I left it.

I picked it up again towards the end of May and I was able to get quite a bit done. I only have the outer layer of the petals to stitch and I am using a metallic thread.

My good friend Lisa came up from Bakersfield to visit for about a week. I decided it was time to start a new WIP. She helped me pick my Strawberry Fairy. I didn't get a ton stitched, well at least it didn't feel like it. The fabric is an extremely pale pink and under my ott light it is like stitching on white. I started the wings of my fairy and it was mostly white and light shades of ecru with some grey.

June 5th was the monthly Virtual Stitch-In on my ILCS group. I actually turned the whole weekend into a Stitch-In for myself. I started another new WIP. This one is going to be an anniversary present for my folks. I need it done before November.

I put in over 2,500 stitches in this piece. I used an entire skein of DMC 310. This is stitched 2 over 2 on 36ct Lakeside Linen.

Can you guess what I am going to be?

New Finishes

2010-06-11T16:01:00.000-07:00

Nothing like major procrastination when it comes to stitchy updates. I've completed 3 projects in the past couple of weeks.

Lizzie Kate Giggle Boxer

"Did you ever stop to think?"

stitched on the included 27ct Cream Northern Cross Linen

with suggested GAST & WDW threads

I think I am going to make this into a no-sew cube once I find the perfect fabric.

Holiday Harmony Drum by Mill Hill

(kit)

Holiday Harmony Harp by Mill Hill

(kit)

I have all of the Holiday Harmony Mill Hill kits. There are 6 in the set. I am stitching these for Connor. He has an intense love for instrumental music.

Prizes and a RAK

2010-06-11T15:51:00.000-07:00

NASCAR Giveaway

I recently mailed the prize for my NASCAR giveaway to Glenda. It has been received so now I can share with all the fun shopping I had.

Name That Word Prize

I won another Name That Word game on the CSE group. Flo sent me this little towel to stitch on.

RAK

I received this awesome RAK from Linda F. She had a bunch of Stoney Creek publications to share. I am going to have so much fun thumbing through these. I will share with all any that are not appealing to me.

Long Overdue, Very Lengthy, Picture Heavy Update

2010-05-23T13:42:00.000-07:00

Wow! Where has the time gone to? It has been almost a whole month since I have posted any updates on my health or my stitching. So much has happened and been done. Please bear with this post as it will be long and full of pictures. I'll wait here while you go get a snack and beverage.

Okay, are you ready? Let's go...

My Health

Last time I wrote about my health I had not yet seen my GI or HNS doctors.

Back on the 29th of April I had a tube put in my right ear to hopefully correct the negative pressure problems I am having. I have my follow-up appointment to see how everything is going with the tube this Tuesday the 25th. I still have severe ringing in my right ear and it occasionally has a plugged feeling. We'll just have to wait and see what the HNS doctor has to say on Tuesday.

On the 5th of May I saw my wonderful GI doctor. She is amazingly attentative and very helpful when explaining many technical sounding medical things. Terry looked through my history since I last saw her in mid-2009, paying close attention to what has gone on most recently and my trip to the ER. She has decided that my GP doctor jumped the gun saying I have GERD and gastritis. After much discussion, Terry is treating me for IBS. I am on a new medication and I will see her again on the 11th of June to see how my symptoms are. If everything has calmed down for me and I am not having an pains then the diagnosis is definitely IBS. I have been keeping a food journal to track what I eat and how my body reacts in the hours to follow. I have found a few things that I have had to either totally cut out of my life or just cut back on. I am feeling a ton better and I have only been on my medication for a little over 2 weeks now. So things are definitely looking up for my health.

RAKs and a Prize

I have received a couple of surprise RAKs in the past couple of weeks.

Robin's first attempt at a beaded scissor fob! I think she did an awesome job and I am touched that she made it for me.

As a thank you for helping Lisa with a stitchy gift she surprised me with a pattern off of my http://www.123stitch.com/ wish list. It's called BYOB by Glory Bee.

I won the Name That Word game on CSE group. Sharon sent me a very pretty butterfly kit and a cool bottle opener!

Project Finishes

I have been busy the past few weeks finishing some pieces that I stitched recently and not so recently.

I stitched this celestial kit way back in 2008. I just now decided how I was going to finish it. I am loving the wall hanging technique. The border is a glittery purple fabric, but no matter how many different ways I snapped the picture the fabric looks blue.

This is necessarily cross stitch related but I used a sewing machine and that is technically stitching. I made this shoe for Connor to learn how to tie laces. He hasn't tried it yet, but he thinks it looks really cool.

I completed the stitching on Connor's Tooth Fairy pillow back in March. Here it is all ready for his little choppers to start falling out.

I completed the stitching on this gift for Connor's kindergarten teacher back in February. I finished off into a no-sew cube and gave it to her during National Teacher Appreciation week earlier this month. She adores it!

Stitchy Finishes

In my spare time this past month I have been a stitching fool. Here are my finishes for the past few weeks.

Father & Son

kit by Vervaco

Replaced the aida with 28ct Ivory Jobelan

finished on 5/10/2010

These next few pieces are part of a set of 4 that I am making to decorate the walls of Connor's bathroom.

Clean Your Ears

by Calico Crossroads

stitched on 28ct white lugana

with recommended DMC threads

finished on 5/11/2010

Wash Your Hands

by Calico Crossroads

stitched on 28ct white lugana

with recommended DMC threads

finished on 5/15/2010

Take a Bath

by Calico Crossroads

stitched on 28ct white lugana

with recommended DMC threads

pattern altered from a girl to a boy in the tub

finished on 5/19/2010

I think I've reached the end of my accomplishments for now! I am currently stitching a Lizzie Kate Giggle Boxer, "Did you ever stop to think?". I should be done with it tonight sometime.

If you lasted through this entire post I thank you for reading my ramblings. I hope you have a wonderful end to your weekend and a fabulous week to follow.

Hugs and Stitches!!

NASCAR Giveaway Winner Announced

2010-05-22T10:08:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to

GLENDA!!!!

Thank you to all who participated in this giveaway. Now let's keep our toes crossed that the All-Star Race doesn't get rained out today.

Glenda, I will email you privately for your mailing address.

NASCAR Giveaway

2010-05-21T23:59:00.000-07:00

In honor of the upcoming NASCAR Sprint Cup All-Star Race on Saturday, May 22nd and NASCAR in general :) I am having a NASCAR giveaway. There will be only one winner in this giveaway. All you have to do is reply to this post with your interest in being entered in this giveaway and leave an e-mail address for me to reach you at.

What is the prize you ask? Well, here is a little sneek peek...but this is not all you get.

Patterns by Judy Counts

include, but not limited to,

Stock Car Racing - '91-'92 Stock Car #2

Mark Martin's '93 #6 Valvoline Ford

Kyle Petty's '93 #42 Stock Car

I will have my hubby pull a winning name when the All-Star Race is complete on Saturday, May 22nd.

Good luck to all who enter!

Plagued By More Health Problems

2010-04-27T14:59:00.000-07:00

Those of you who know me through the multiple Yahoo Groups I belong to know that I recently have been having some health problems. I thought I would just post a somewhat boring update on what happend, is happening and will happen in the near future.

Two years ago I was diagnosed with BPPV, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. I have attached a link, by clicking on BPPV, for those who are interested in more detail. I have been dealing with the comings and goings of vertigo symptoms ever since.

Move forward to about 3 months ago, I had my first ever ear infection. But, before the pain hit I had a plugged right ear for about 2 weeks. I went to the Dr. and took all of my antibiotics and the infection went away and my ear finally popped.

Move to Tuesday, April 13th. I woke up and my right ear was plugged again. But this time it was more severe. I couldn't hear any muffled sounds out of my right ear at all. When I snapped my fingers near my right ear I would hear it on the left side of my head. What was even more weird was when Connor whispered into my right ear I could hear it. With my plugged ear came a severe case of my vertigo. After battling for 2 days with both symptoms I called my Dr and had an appt scheduled for Friday, April 16th in the AM.

Move to Friday, April 16th. I woke up around 5:30am with intense stomach cramping and belching for no reason what-so-ever. There was tons of pain between my sternum and my belly button. It would come and go every 15 minutes to an hour and would only last for about 5 to 10 minutes. Since I already had a Dr appt I figured I would ask about these 'attacks' I was having. Of course, by the time I got to the appt the pains in my stomach were almost non-existant. My Dr. sent a referral for another hearing test to see what was wrong with my ears and she wrote me a prescription for Pepcid, stronger than the OTC.

By that evening the pains began reappearing sporadically. By Saturday morning I was exhausted and in pain much more frequently and intensely. I called the advice nurse and was told that the Pepcid could take up to a week to start working but to just bear with it all and stay on a bland diet. Oh, and to hurry out and get a bottle of Pepto and start drinking that around the clock.

On Sunday Paul was on the phone with the advice nurse because I was even more exhausted, had new pains to add to the list, and could not eat or drink much of anything other than little sips of water. But, even the water was causing me intense pains. The nurse told Paul to make sure I kept taking my Pepcid as directed and to stop taking the Pepto because it contains aspirin which can upset your stomach. I still had tons and tons of belching, it was like there was a bubble making machine in my belly. The nurse suggested switching to Maalox. So off to the store Paul went. After taking a couple of doses of the Maalox I was starting to feel some major relief. All of the pains in my stomach turned to a somewhat ignorable burning sensation, something I had never felt before. I actually got a somewhat decent 4 hours of sleep Sunday night.

I woke up Monday feeling okay. Maybe 50% of normal but functionable. Paul left for the bus and train to get to work. About an hour or so after Paul left all of my pains came back all at once and were lasting longer and stronger than ever before. I barely got Connor to school and then I rushed over to the train station to pick Paul up. He drove me home to see just how long it would be before another attack hit. We were at the house for about 5 minutes when my body and mind just couldn't take the pain anymore and I collapsed. He immediately took me to the ER.

We were pleasantly surprised that there was no waiting at the ER. The Dr and nurse assigned to me were wonderful. They immediately got an IV going and started running blood work. Then came the cocktail I got to drink, lidocain and maalox. It tastes horrible but within 20 minutes I was feeling a lot better. It numbed my esophagus and my entire stomach!

I know it is way to late to make a long story short but I am now taking Prilosec every morning, Maalox throughout the day and Pepcid at night. I have a list of foods I am to stay away from and foods I can slowly try to work back in to my diet. I have an appointment with the GI Clinic because they want to scope my stomach and my lower intestines to find out what caused all of this, because it could all happen again at any moment.

Regarding my ear, I had an appt with Head/Neck Surgery yesterday and my hearing tested on the 16th. I have negative pressure in my right ear really bad and it is starting in my left ear. The negative pressure is causing the ringing and plugging in my ear. It may also be causing the slight hearing loss I've been experiencing over the past 10 years in my right ear. I wasn't getting hearing tests before so they have nothing to compare the results with. I go back in to HNS this Thursday for a consult to have tubes put in my ears. My eustacian tubes are not working properly.

As of today my number one complaint is my major caffeine withdrawal I am going through. That is the #1 no-no on the list. I am feeling about 85% back to normal now. I will keep this as up to date as I can so that I don't have another novel of an update like this one. If you are still reading, thank you for keeping up with me. I know I can be very long winded.

Celebration Giveaway on Meari's Blog

2010-04-27T06:53:00.000-07:00

Meari is have an awesome giveaway on her blog to celebrate a follower milestone. Go check it out.

Teddy Bear Giveaway Winners Announcement

2010-04-22T16:55:00.000-07:00

With the help of my son, Connor, I have winners for each of the three teddy bear themed patterns I am giving away.

Pattern #1: Renee (truckingmom)

Pattern #2: Felicity

Pattern #3: Renee G.

I will be sending private emails shortly to get your mailing addresses so that I can get these patterns in the mail to you all.

Thank you to everyone who participated in the drawings. I have many more giveaways planned so keep your eyes peeled for more goodies.

Teddy Bear Giveaway

2010-04-08T13:58:00.000-07:00

I have 3 different teddy bear patterns from kits that I have previously stitched. I no longer want these patterns and would love for them to go to someone who would want to stitch them.

Giveaway rules:

You must leave a comment on this post including your e-mail address and the number(s) of the pattern(s) you want to be entered to win.
On Thursday, April 22 I will pull a name from each of the 3 drawing baskets. I will then notify the winners via my blog and their e-mail address.
Each winner has 2 days to respond to my e-mail. If after the 2 days I have not heard from a winner I will redraw a name from the basket.

Pattern #1
Cherished Teddies Around the World
Bob - U.S.A.

Pattern #2
Blue Jean Teddy Bear
Birth Record

Pattern #3
Teddy Bear Birth Record

April ILCS Virtual Stitch-In

2010-04-06T12:42:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday was the monthly Virtual Stitch-In on ILCS. I was lucky to have the day to myself to relax and enjoy stitching with no interruptions. Connor was with my folks for the Spring Break holiday weekend and Paul was vegging with computer games.

Here is my progress as of late Saturday night on Father and Son.

All three of us have been battling colds and allergies. With Mother Nature still playing her cruel jokes, it seems like winter outside every other day.

I'm working on some giveaways that I plan on posting over the next couple of days. So definitely keep an eye out for them. Also, I've created a separate blog for my stash that I want to sell or trade. The link to visit that blog is in my sidebar.

An Overdue Update...

2010-03-31T10:42:00.000-07:00

It's been one of those days, it seems, for the past 2 weeks...

The Weather

Mother Nature seems to be playing a cruel prank on us here in Northern California. Two weeks ago it was super sunny and temps jumped to the mid 70s. We were so excited. We peeled off all of the plastic that we seal our window interiors with for winter and we opened up the house for the first time since October. We shut off the heater, but didn't rush to take the extra blankets off of the beds yet.

Fast forward to the present. We've had rain off and on for the past couple of days and our highs for the day are now in the low 50s. Connor has come down with a nasty cough, Paul and I are both miserable from the cold and our allergies, and we keep staring at the thermostat contemplating turning our heater on.

I want Spring to come back. She peeked her out for a week and then disappeared on us.

My Feet

Well, 2 more days and I can stop wearing the 'boot' on my right foot. The pains in my feet are totally gone, knock on lots of wood. I'd like to say that the only thing good that has come out of these whole ordeal with my feet pains is that Paul got to stay home these last 2 weeks while my right foot was in the boot because I can't drive at all. Good thing he has tons of sick time accrued and rarely ever uses it. He badly needed a break from work anyways. We haven't gone on vacation for over 2 years so he was needing this break.

Exchanges

On ILCS we had a St. Paddy's Day Exchange. I was lucky to have Rene la Frog as my partner. She spoiled me with WDW, Crescent Colours and The Gentle Art threads and a cute Froggy Card.

I went shopping crazy on her thread and I made her a little surprise. I forgot to take a picture of the entire package I sent her but you can view it on her blog. I did remember to take pics of the surprise.

I Don't Do Frogging!

By The Cat's Whiskers

Stitching on 32 ct Yellow Belfast Linen

With DMC threads

Scissor Slide (I've since made 2 more, it's so much fun!)

Other Stitchy News

In a previous post I showed competed pictures of the stitching of What a Hoot!. Well, I finished the assembly, took me 3 whole days to do. Not necessarily because it was difficult. I've never put anything this complex together and I was taking my time with each step to make sure I didn't mess up anywhere.

Ozzie the Owl in all his glory!

The Backside The Inside

Ozzie with his glasses off. Aren't those teenie scissors adorable?

I completed all of the stitching on Connor's Tooth Fairy Pillow. Now I just have to wait 'til I get over to JoAnn's during one of their many upcoming sales to get all the components to make this into a knob knocker. There will be a pocket where the space of no stitches is.

The Tooth Fairy

From Cross Stitch & Country Crafts magazine Issue May/June 1989

Stitched on 28 ct white Monaco

with DMC threads

To be finished as a knob knocker

After all of these finishes I asked Paul if I should start something new that I have already kitted or should I work on more of my WIPs. I only have 2, if you don't include the Happy Birthday Tabletopper, Father & Son and my Stargazer Lily. Paul couldn't remember when I had last stitched on Father & Son. I didn't realize the last time I took an update pic was in August of 2009! Well, I picked it back up on the 20th and I've been making such great progress that I may just keep working on this until it is complete.

This is where I left it on August 25, 2009.

This is 1 week of off and on stitching. I have completed the entire bottom of this piece. I think it will take me another week or so to complete this if I keep up with it and don't get distracted with other stitchy things in my to do pile.

I think I've caught up on just about everything now. I feel so much better being able to update on a more daily basis. Hopefully I'll be better in the month to come.

Happy Spring to Everybody! Don't fill up too much on jelly beans and chocolate bunnies this weekend. I have my Cadbury Eggs to keep me company ;)

Blogversary Giveaway!!

2010-03-22T14:02:00.000-07:00

Felicity is having an awesome Blogversary Giveaway on Blissful Creations. Go check it out ASAP as it ends soon.

Beautiful Blogger

2010-03-18T12:48:00.000-07:00

I have graciously received this award from Meari. I have never personally met Meari, but we met through the ILCS Yahoo group and have become good friends. Thank you Meari for choosing me to receive this award. It is wonderful to know that people enjoy reading about my artsty fartsy life and then some, lol!!

The rules are simple:

1. Accept the award.

2. Thank the person who gave you the award.

3. Add a link to the person who gave you the award.

4. Put the award on your blog.

5. Write 10 things about yourself that others might not know about you.

6. Pass the award on to 10 others.

10 Things About Myself Others Might Not Know

1. I am a firm believer in ghosts, especially since my cat haunts my home.

2. I've lived in 6 different places in 3 countries. (South Carolina, The Netherlands, Texas, Italy, Illinois & California)

3. I think my toes are cute.

4. I repeated teh 6th grade, but not because I failed it the first time.

5. I am a habitual list writer.

6. I have 1 rib that is larger than it should be.

7. I am related to Mary Shelley, author of Frankenstein, and Pocahontas.

8. I have a huge dislike of and anxiety towards clowns.

9. I don't like being in heavily crowded areas.

10. I love to surprise friends and family with gifts for no reason. (Too bad money is tight so I have had to cut back drastically.)

And now, I nominate...

1. Rene (Rene la Frog's Ramblings)

2. Lisa (Stitch Crazy)

3. Felicity (Blissful Creations)

4. Kelly (I Love Cross Stitch)

5. Kathy (Kathy's Stitching Blog)

6. Mel (Epic Stitching)

7. Nancy (Nancy's Needle Notes)

8. Kathy (Kathy's Stitching and other comments)

9. Sadie (Stitching up a Storm)

10. Vicki (Vicki's Life & Stitches)

The Tabletopper Didn't Make it Under the Cake

2010-03-18T10:39:00.000-07:00

I tried really hard to finish the Happy Birthday Tabletopper in time for Connor's Birthday celebration on the 13th. Unfortunately it just wasn't meant to be. This is as far as I got when I gave up late in the evening on the 12th.

I hadn't even come close to finishing the Nun Stitch that goes all the way around the piece. This has to be completed before I fray the edges. I also still need to stitch the greeting on all 4 sides that says "Happy birthday to you!"

It's actually a good thing I ran out of time because there are a couple of things that I am unhappy with in this piece and after much contemplation I am going to do a ton of frogging and order some different threads.

It's probably hard to tell from these pictures but the cake and presents are done primarily in pastels with some dark blue and red accents. The border which is stitched with Caron Watercolours is all dark shades of brown, greens, and clay like colors. The entire time I was stitching with the Watercolours I kept questioning why the pattern would call for something so dark and drab on a piece that is supposed to be bright and cheery. But, I ignored my gutt feeling because I was so determined to finish this in time for the celebration.

Then I started working on the Nun Stitch. Again, the designer chose a dark color, black Perle Cotton to edge this entire piece with. I didn't get far on this part when I realized there was simply no way I was going to finish on time. The "Happy birthday to you!" design is also supposed to be stitched in all black.

That is when I gave up and put my needle down. My gutt has won! I am going to frog the entire Watercolours border. Next time I am at my not-so-local LNS I will take this project with me and pick a Watercolours thread that is more bright, cheery and compliments the design better. I will also be choosing a different color to stitch the greeting along the 4 sides and the Nun Stitch will be done in white so that it does not stand out so much. Needless to say, now I have no deadline to finish this and I honestly need a huge break from it.