Julie's Keepsakes

getaway

2012-01-18T10:49:00.001-06:00

Unfortunately, I don't have any stitching to share. I'm still trying to locate my decrepit mojo. I'm hoping today will be the day. I had a chance to stitch with all my wonderful stitching buddies this past weekend, but I opted for football and no stitching. I did miss all those ladies and the food. However, I do get to "live" with two of my most precious friends this upcoming weekend. Sally and Susan (no blogs); along with mom.

Every January mom, myself, Sally and Susan travel down to St. Augustine, FL for a Susan Greening Davis stitching getaway at the beach. Literally, AT THE BEACH. We always have a fun-filled weekend, good food, and score lots of goodies. I won't be scoring too many goodies this trip. Just a nice time away from home with great friends, the best mom and the talented Susan Greening Davis.

This year's project is so cute. I cannot wait to see it in person. I hope I'm bringing a suitcase big enough to bring it back in. Click on the link below to see a photo from SGD's website.

Steamer Trunk

That's it for now. I leave Friday morning so I must be shoving off. Have lots to prepare in the next couple days for a 4-day extravaganza. Yay!

Talk soon...

thy hancock and winter abound

2012-01-12T17:00:00.001-06:00

Went by my LNS this afternoon. They were holding a couple charts and some thread AND I made my mind up on which fabric to use for the Elizabeth Hancock sampler by LHN. I joined the SAL for 2012 (see sidebar photo), thanks to Vonna.

The design calls for 30 ct Straw by WDW, but I'm opting for 30 ct Cocoa. It's very similar and just as pretty. I almost went with a 28 ct Harvest Blend linen, but digressed. I'm happy with my final choice of Cocoa. Unfortunately, only some of the silks were in for me to purchase today. The rest are on the way. I believe I could start this with what I have. I'll have a look see.

The other chart is none other than Blackbird's Loose Feather Winter design. I have the other two and am almost done stitching Summer. Ahh, so pretty, indeed.

Then I saw this out my window...

Oh-man! That white ~~crap~~ ~~crud~~ stuff. I hate snow. Tomorrow hasn't even presented itself and school is already declaring a snow day. Good grief! Talk soon... :-)

mrs. rodgers' neighborhood...part 2

2012-01-10T22:51:00.001-06:00

2011 has been one of those years. Let's just say I'm glad Christmas is over, seasonal items put away, and the new year has started. I do hope 2012 proves to be more productive and promising. Here's what did happen in 2011...

I had to start Loose Feathers - Summer by Blackbird Designs. It was like a dirty little drug calling my name...a good drug though, as I'm sure everyone can agree.

This is truly embarrassing, folks. I started stitching Trees by The Workbasket in 2008 while visiting Keepsakes in Ohio with my mom and aunt. I bought the chart, the called-for WDW threads, and some beautiful, to-die-for Lakeside Linen fabric. But this was sleeping for sometime before I "remembered" I still had it tucked away. This is the calateral damage when starting too many projects at once. It's a sickness, I suppose, and I suffer in a big way!

One loooooong q-snap, I'll tell you. But it's proving to work wonderfully with this design.

I'm sorry, but he's the cutest fox I've ever stitched. He looks like he's in mid-flight, but I assure you he's not on steroids. He's standing on some other forest friend. I promise. Maybe he or she will be lucky enough to make this year's stitching agenda. That's if I come up with one.

This poor guy. Notice he borrowed Frankenstein's shoes so he could tread better through the trees? I stitched him 1-row too high and wasn't about to rippit out (I'd rather croak). I didn't notice his height difference until after I woke this design and started to stitch on it again. We borrowed extra shoes for him and I must admit, he doesn't look all that bad. He looks like a bad ass. I wouldn't mess with him if I crossed him through the trees.

Towards the end of the year I was visiting primitivebettys blog and was taken with Deaver Daughter's Schoolhouse Sampler. Had to have it. The concept of one large sampler embodied with two mini samplers really caught my eye. Betty's story of the sisters really inspired me to stitch this with my mom and her sister (my Aunt Pam) in mind. The focus color is blue which is my favorite color. I was hooked, but imagining two sisters diligently stitching on their very own mini sampler on the same cloth to combine one large design. Very cool! I'm sorry I'm not further along.

I have forgotten the fabric I'm using. I know I changed the count because I want this design to be substantial when finished. I stuck with the called-for threads because...

the colors are rich, deep, and Dungaree is a fabulous primitive blue.

Again, I can't remember the fabric blend or count. I'll soon get this back out too. I went for the mottled look for aging purposes, obviously.

Aunt Pam and I call this one ATS (pronounce "ats") because anytime we talk about it we don't want to keep referring to it as And They Sinned. You know that humungous, most beautiful, will-take-an-individual-longer-than-a-lifetime-to-complete design by Examplars From The Heart? Yeah, that's the one. Saying And They Sinned in a sentence sounds lengthy and because of "And" it's just plain weird to add to any type of sentence. Therefore, we say ATS - it works, and we know we're weird for it.

Such a cute little Cherub. I read that Cherubs were known to guard the entrance to the Garden of Eden. Makes sense with this design.

The color purple is a calming color. The stars next to her appear to be off center. I will add, that this entire design has mistakes so if this design is in your to-do basket there are corrections you can acquire, but make sure you check the instructions every so often. I feel as if I'll be checking and re-checking the instructions and corrections sheet as I go along. The border cannot be stitched first because of mistakes and by keeping the border and inner design together, you'll make fewer mistakes. At least that's what I have found.

Another Cherub and a snake. Who doesn't like to stitch up a snake? There are two on each side atop and I must admit, even though these snakes aren't very nice, they were awfully quick and fun to stitch.

I have a little more than this done. There's a gorgeous sun and bird in the lower left hand corner peeking from the cloud. Oh! And that cloud...it was hell stitching that thing. Aunt Pam and I are thrilled to be done stitching THAT cloud. It's actually two different colors, but you almost can't tell. My aunt and I are having a long distance SAL. We're using two different count fabrics, but we are sticking with the color palatte.

I stitched two gifts for two special people this year. Both were for Christmas. I believe they were well received and much appreciated.

This was my first Brittercup Design and I truly enjoyed crossing every x. When I saw Stealing Oats I knew who I had to stitch it for. Her name is Devinee and she's a wonderful 12-year old girl I've grown quite fond of and close to over the years. She is the daughter I'll never have.

She loves horses and cats. She shares the love of horses with her mother and the cat, for me, represents Devinee. Hence stealing oats from the horse :-) That Devinee sure is a goober.

You can't tell, but the frame has traces of a subtle red hue which reminded me of a barn nestled in the countryside. The dark wood also matches furniture in Devinee's room.

Here it is in all its glory. I used a Vintage Country linen. It has a slight over-dyed appearance which goes well with the weathered barn/country look. Devinee was surprised and does appreciate my hard work. I'm glad I was able to stitch her something as she does see me stitch for myself and others.

My next gift was for my mother. I actually started and finished stitching this last year. Which translates to 2010. Egads! It wasn't intentional by any means. I had no idea how I was going to finish-finish it during the stitching. I only decided, or rather made up my mind, on how is was to be finished. I wanted something extra special so my project began...and it took awhile, but mom was pleasantly surprised, therefore, job well done.

Of course, we can all tell which designer this is. Little House Needleworks, of course! It's dainty and sweet from the Little Women Virtues Series "Strong and Beautiful" which my mom truly is - no lie. I added the Made with Love charm. I thought it cute for the little lady to hold something rather than nothing :-)

It was a pleasure using Belle Soie silks in colors as lovely as My Mom.

Mom would never presume she's strong, and she may think she's beautiful, but not nearly the way her daughter does. Mom is the most enfluential person in my life. Past. Present. And Future. Pretty is as pretty does. I've been witness to some of mom's toughest times and she comes out on top, always. That's a person I need in my life and I'm thankful to God for her.

I finished it into a box. I added lace I purchased in Florida while on a stitching retreat with mom and friends that originally came from Germany. It works perfectly, including how the scalloped edge of the lace matches the top border of the design. I didn't plan that. It just worked out that way.

I bought the unfinished box at Joann's. I think it cost a mere $3. I bought stain and varnish and went to work. I even managed not to get stain or varnish on the gold clasps. So proud of myself for that - toot toot!

Went through my fabric stash and found some that matched perfectly to the design. Again, it was meant to be! I measured, used my rotary cutter for precision, and used Mod Podge to adhere the fabric to the inside of the box.

I also padded the bottom with felt and then with the fabric. I completed the box with matching necessaires inside. My only complaint is that no matter how much time went by the lid felt tacky. It had weeks to dry so I'm not sure what the deal was. Doesn't matter. Mom truly loves it and I love her.

I do apologize for not remembering fabric choices and counts. I've lost a bit, if not all, of my mojo since the year started. I haven't stitched a lick. Aside from stitching in 2011, both boys have grown, naturally. Jose's got more of an attitude and has a strong set of friends. He had surgery too (and unfortunately not on his attitude). Cameron had major dental work done which proved costly and painful. But Cameron is still sweet, 4 years old, and very imaginative.

Went to Ohio for Thanksgiving, and my parents have retired. Except dad has started a new part-time job hosting a morning radio station show 3 times a week. This should be interesting!

A very special someone gifted me a Kindle Fire for Christmas, and man, am I ADDICTED!!! So is Cameron. It's the best Christmas gift I ever received aside from when I was 8 and dad got me an ATARI. Back then, we didn't have a lot of money so I understand now what it took. But that day, dad hooked it up to a suitable TV and played Tennis with me all afternoon. Twenty-plus years later, I'm given a gift in the same capacity and I'm in love.

This thing is amazing! I'm on it everyday. The only things it doesn't do is 'ring-a-ling-ling' and brew coffee. Other than those two things, there isn't anything this Fire cannot do. Thank you, RAD!

So, goodbye to 2011 and hello to 2012. I don't make resolutions because I'm not committed enough to keep them. I usually stray. Change is too inevitable. But I sure hope I get a job soon bc we're struggling. I want my children to be happy. I want my parents to feel at peace for the rest of their lives. I want my brother to be productive and healthy. I want RAD to continue having success and good fortune. And I want Mr. Rodgers to win the Superbowl!!!

Thanks for taking a walk through Mrs. Rodgers's neighborhood - Go Green Bay! Talk soon!

love & peace

2011-12-16T14:16:00.000-06:00

Talk soon...

mrs. rodgers neighborhood...part 1

2011-12-15T13:09:00.001-06:00

Tree trimming is complete! I use a pre lit, artificial tree. I once had a nice 7-foot tree, but it was "mistakenly" put out with the trash some years ago. However, when Cameron was born and able to walk, I bought a 4-foot tree (seen below). I decided to put it on a table that continues to work well for us. I store this and all holiday decorations in the attic, but this year was more, shall we say, trying than years before.

I believe something or someone was looking over me. While getting the boxes down I fell from the attic. I was on the 4^th step from the top and just went backward. Landed on my knee. I was a cross between the bionic woman and some sort of stunt person with a little bit of grace to boot. I managed to do a Kareem Abdul-Jabbar kind of move and turn in mid-air; hence landing on just my knee instead of my back or neck. Did I mention I fell on concrete? Uh, yeah. All I got was a knot and a bruise, believe it or not. I did stay out of the attic the rest of the day and asked for help later on.

On top of this little chaotic event, more than half my lights didn’t work and I wasn’t about to test every single teeny tiny light bulb! No. No. No. Instead, I just went to Dollar General and bought a strand of white lights and VIOLA! I’m satisfied. This little tree will be purposely put into the trash this year.

Moving along…

Mom and I celebrated our birthdays on the 10th and 11th. Saturday, we had a really nice time with our friends, Sally and Susan, as we always do. We were invited to Sally’s beautiful home for lunch, gift exchanging (for our friendly Christmas exchange too) and some stitching; although we didn’t get to stitch an inch. We did rummage through Sally’s stash, though ;-)

I received these gifts from both my girls. Isn’t that Jane Austen thread keep just to die for?! And we can always use more scissors! Sally stitched this darling little JBW stocking for me and it adorns my tree as we speak. I just love handmade gifts, don’t you? Thank you, Sally and Susan, for being so good to me. I love you both so much!

Hold onto your needles gals…

This is what my mother gave me for my birthday.

This is just the top! Check out the quilting of the spools of thread and needles all around my name. This quilting is done inside and out. The background fabric is a sampler style. It looks like it could be Moda or Blackbird, but mom wasn’t sure. Even I'm not really sure, and I don't really care. She had it made for me. It’s really very pretty.

The trip inside is even better…

Five pockets are crochet serving a purpose for a ruler, scissors (with a built-in magnet), a thread keep (maybe Jane Austen will fit cozily inside), a pencil, and a dainty little cube for Thread Heaven. But of course, the mind is a crazy place and I can designate these cozy nooks for anything I like. I love that it has one massive place for “my project” and the separate areas for all other necessaries. This is one of the best gifts I have ever received. Thank you, Mom!

Sunday was my birthday and I spent it with my parents…

Mom is so funny. She stopped by her local store and saw this cute little elf cake and knew that it was for me.

Like Paulette, I took some photos at my parent’s house. There is just something about mom’s house during winter that just feels like, well, home. I ~~messed~~ played with my photos a bit. Mom really likes nativity scenes. I only took a few photos of two of them. She has a few more scattered around the house that I didn’t capture.

I really played with this next photo. My parents have very high ceilings and mom has Grandma's sleigh on a window ledge far out of reach. Grandma made this Santa and his sleigh of reindeer many, many years ago. She could create anything and was a queen when it came to plastic canvas and yarn, which were the used materials. I thought it would look neat to add snow...so I did.

Later on Saturday night we all met up for our birthday dinner. Hibachi style. And dad had one more gift up his sleeve for me...

Did you think I was kidding about Mrs. Rodgers neighborhood?!?! Nah! I really meant it :-). And you can start calling me that from now on, please..................(j/k).

To be continued...

journey

2011-12-12T14:34:00.001-06:00

And I don’t mean the band. My last, significant post was May 9. Seven months ago. A week hasn’t gone by that I haven’t thought about making a journal entry. A wise woman recently said to me, “Blogging is a luxury and we have to be in the right frame of mind to do it or there isn't any fun in it.” And I agree with that. Sharon is so right.

In May I was let go; other wise, fired from my job. It’s been touch and go since and I’ve only now felt like blogging. I still don’t have a job so times are tough, and with Christmas around the corner I’m not very “merry.” All I want for Christmas is a career. Can Santa help with that?

Jose is now 14 years old and has visited the ER twice since May. Once requiring a visit to the OR; and we have no insurance, but blessed be us. Jose is perfectly fine, health wise. He needs to do better in school and his attitude needs adjusting BIG TIME! I love him with every ounce of my body. He gave me the title “mother.” Being pregnant and unwed at 21 with him saved my life in ways he’ll never understand. But I don’t always like him. I can go from being so unbelievably proud of him one minute and telling that to anyone who will listen, to regretting ever opening my mouth the next. But God love him.

Cameron is 4 years old and has not visited the ER. Cameron has developed such a mature personality and his sense of humor is wicked. He’s extremely independent, creative and determined. He still looks like Curious George and he’s in love with his Papa (my dad). He calls me ‘sweetheart’ a lot. He’s such a hoot and a pleasure to be around, but annoying sometimes because his energy level is full force all day. Oh, and he never stops eating and still maintains a tiny figure. He does NOT get that from me!

I have been stitching and managed to get a couple things finished this summer. I was able to get one piece framed, however. It’s a Christmas gift for someone very special to me. I will post pictures of it in an upcoming entry. I also read more this summer and finished a few books from my Kindle.

This year has been a tough one in so many areas. I’ve had a lot of blessings too. Lots of changes. I just turned 36 and by far the most difficult job on the planet is parenting. And what’s harder than that…parenting alone. Anyway, this is my humdrum post and promise the next one will be great!

In a rare moment, here is Jose and Cameron getting along. Cameron needed help battling Bowser in Super Mario and asked Jose to assist. Lucky Cameron...Jose said yes.

Talk soon!

paging dr. cameron

2011-12-08T11:29:00.000-06:00

The other day I picked Cameron up from daycare which followed a visitation with his daddy. After our miss-you hugs, we got into the car and our conversation went so...

Mommy: The kitties are sick, Cameron.
Cameron: What's wrong (concern in voice)?
Mommy: They have colds. The kitties are sneezing and have runny noses. But not Samantha. She's not sick. (She's our oldest cat.)
Cameron: Are they at the doc-dor?
Mommy: No, honey. They're at home.
Cameron: They need cat tissues.

Like I said. Paging Dr. Cameron... Paging Dr. Cameron... You have a telephone call at the front desk.

Talk soon!

meet ms. elizabeth hancock

2011-12-07T08:28:00.000-06:00

I was ~~tempted~~ introduced to a new SAL for 2012 started by our infamous Vonna from The Twisted Stitcher. Of course, I joined!

Look at the gorgeous colors, and the verse is beautiful. Diane Williams did a great job with this sampler. So, head over to Vonna's blog, send her an email and sign up. Or if you lack will power go over to Stitching with Elizabeth Hancock blog, just created by Vonna, and get yourself tempted. I did!

Talk soon!

quickie

2011-12-03T16:40:00.001-06:00

I'm dropping in for a quick hello. I've updated my page here. I've got new additions (furry babies, that is) - take a peek on the side panel! They are awfully cute, I must say so myself :-). I haven't posted in 7 months. Whew! I'll talk briefly about that in my next post. Have a good evening!

Talk soon!

mother's day

2011-05-09T16:21:00.000-05:00

I wish I could say that Mother's Day was a wonderful day, but it wasn't. My mom is in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean heading to Rome, Italy, but I did receive a call from her. We chatted just a bit while she was cruising across the pond. I received some lovely text from friends and family, and I had a great conversation with Aunt Pam.

Oh, yesterday just didn't turn out the way I wished it would or thought it should. Cameron was with his father for the weekend and that was all right with me. I made the choice not to spend it with Cameron AND Jose so that I could spend more quality time with just Jose. But things didn't go so well between us. A waste of a day, actually. Cameron does come home this evening, as I need the comfort of his upbeat sense of humor right now. A sneak peek of the usual dose I get of Cameron.

Yep! Can't wait until he comes home this evening. He's always full of surprises.

Talk soon...

smitten over

2011-05-06T13:31:00.001-05:00

** Jose and Cameron
** Mom
** new blog looks
** Fridays
** moonlight stitchin'
** free weekends
** Sade's music
** laying pool-side
** reading from my Kindle
** summer
** stitching
** orchids
** kittens
** chats with Aunt Pam
** starting a new book
** a good movie
** margaritas
** Orion's belt on a clear night
** being in love
** cheese
** organizing
** close friends
** starting a cross stitch project
** finding ~~lost~~ misplaced items
** morning coffee outside
** samplers
** chocolate
** traveling
** laying in bed
** pasta
** freshly painted nails
** fabric
** primitives
** punchneedle
** a finished piece
** wikipedia
** a clean house
** shopping at my LNS
** Cameron telling me he loves me & smiling
** Jose telling me I'm pretty cool

Talk soon...

shows open!

2011-04-14T17:17:00.000-05:00

Run on over to the Online Needlework Show and check out all the venues. Get your list flowing and head to your LNS so they can pony up...lol. Anyway, you know the drill...Talk soon!

"good news" post

2011-04-13T17:19:00.001-05:00

I said I had "good news" to share in my last post. At least good news to my eyes. On Saturday, my LNS called to say two of my stitched pieces were framed and ready for pick up. I didn't waste any time. Now, please forgive my photography because I'm no photographer, but more importantly, I don't own a good camera anymore so I do my best with what I have.

The Sampler Lady by Little House Needleworks

I must raise my own needle with this one. I love, love, love the framework on this piece. It matches perfectly with the floral-work in the design and that's why I picked it. I could not be happier about the finish. Kathy, at my LNS, did a superb job!

Schoolgirl Lessons by Little House Needleworks

Again, I'm very pleased with how this design turned out all framed. I liked the beaded edging and for a reason I can't quite put my needle on, I thought it went well with the design (shrugging my shoulders). You may not notice, but around the edges of the beading there is slight hints of red which between that and the Country Vintage linen (that has hints of green), the red Belle Soie I used really pops. It's a dainty piece and I like that.

I finished both these LHN design in 2009 but because of my divorce that ensued afterwards, getting them framed took a backseat. A lot took a backseat, but these ladies are framed and home with fresh walls and a new slate of life.

My late-Aunt Lora stitched this for my mother (her sister) when I was born. Don't know who the designer is, but my mother told me it is stamped cross stitch. I'm divulging quite a bit of personal information about my self in this photo (lol), but I thought it was more important to demonstrate that all the women in my family are needle-crafters.

I'm a 4th generation cross stitcher and I take great pride in that. Since I don't have much to show for in the way of hand-me-downs from my dear Aunt Lora, who passed away from brain cancer when I was 17, I wanted to share what she made. Mom gave this to me over the weekend. I often walked around the homes of all my "mothers" and was envious of all their earlier pieces, some childhood handwork and some that they created for others, especially those no longer with us. I'm going to cherish this piece no matter how juvenile it may be. It's vibrant, cheerful, in great condition, and it's something my Aunt Lora stitched for her sister, my mom.

As everyone knows, Aunt Pam and I are extremely close. She has a piece of needlework in her kitchen that she did at a very young age (possibly between 6-10 years of age) that I'd love to have one day. In fact, Aunt Pam has tons of giant samplers worked all throughout her home - amazing stuff! Unfortunately for me, Aunt Pam has a daughter (my cousin Kari) that will, more than likely, inherit these treasured pieces.

This is all my good news for now. We've had several severe thunderstorms over the last couple months and we'll continue to have more. Today was gorgeous and tomorrow shouldn't be too bad. It's been difficult to take good pictures with all this happening...Take care and Talk soon!

downton abbey

2011-04-12T12:27:00.003-05:00

Another finish in my midst. It's really no big deal, but it counts.

It was a freebie by Tanya designed after a PBS production called "Downton Abbey." It was a fantastic series which I'd like to order on DVD at some point and re-watch.

Good news to share in an upcoming post...stay tuned...Talk soon!

i love a good mystery!

2011-04-08T16:56:00.002-05:00

Don’t you?! Today I joined a club sponsored by Attic Needlework & Collectibles. And not just any club. A Mystery Sampler Club which will be sent in 3 portions over a 3 month period starting May 10. A photo of the sampler won’t be revealed until the 3rd and final portion is sent (oh the suspense!), but the fabric choices are terrific. I have chosen Lakeside Linen, 40 ct. Choice of threads are WDW or a conversion for silks, and since I don’t want to run out and collect 18 skeins of silk any time soon, I’m going to stick with WDW. This just works for me and it keeps the cost down.

The design is called “Birds of a Feather” by designer Brenda Gervais of Country Stitches / With Thy Needle & Thread. Jean Lea, from Attic Needlework & Collectibles, is extremely helpful and she creates a beautiful newsletter which I have also subscribed to. Jean's newsletter comes in a .pdf format so if you have trouble accessing the newsletter link I've provided, you can find it on her website under Newsletter - Here’s a sample of her recent newsletter – it’s fab-u-lous! But as of today, there's a new newsletter. Please subscribe AND sign up for the Mystery Sampler Club!

I also ordered "Feather Your Nest" cross stitch chart. It's so vibrant. That's it...Talk soon!

memory

2011-04-07T16:50:00.001-05:00

Last Saturday night, Jose and I saw Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical Cats. As a child, my parents took me to see these Jellicle Cats perform when we lived outside Chicago. I was a mere 9-12 years old (wow!). I remember it being just before Christmas - might have been Christmas Eve because I distinctly remember coming home and our Christmas morning was celebrated that night due to a trip back home to Cincinnati the very next morning. That evening with my parents is a fond memory of mine. I remember going into the city, catching a cab ride, seeing the musical, and even losing my blanket on the streets of Chicago. But dad convinced the cab driver to drive around the block to see where I had dropped it. In hopes we'd locate it. Luckily, it was still lying on the cold winter street waiting for my return.

I was engrossed by Cats. I learned that the stage was built at an incline so the performers could jump through the air and achieve their acrobatic maneuvers more easily, and as I remember the most about Cats, the stunning performance of Memory. Such a breathtakingly sad moment of the musical.

Now I have a new memory of Cats. I love musicals and I always enjoy the musicality and performance of such, but this time Cats was, well, kinda boring. I realize now that Cats has no plot. No story. Just a bunch of people dressed in cat-like costumes, pretending to lick and clean themselves and then bust out in song for no aparent reason at all. Albeit there were funny moments and entertaining parts that still caught my attention. The performance of Memory is still to die-for. Once again, it was a beautiful performance and still remains the highlight of the show. It’s still a wonderful memory for me and always will be.

The fondest memory of the evening was spending it with my well-groomed son (he does clean up well) and the company we kept. We all had a lot of much-needed fun!

[And thanks to mom for babysitting Cameron while I made a memory with Jose like the one they made with me – xoxo!]

2x2x2

2011-04-06T14:00:00.000-05:00

Two must be my lucky number this week, but then I’m lucky to have finished anything at all. I managed to finish stitching 2 designs, both by The Sampler Girl.

My Everything by The Sampler Girl

I changed it up so it’ll suit my suitor. I took antique white linen and dyed it with taupe Rit dye. I used WDW Blue Topaz for the lettering and Perle Cotton for the heart. The turquoise batik fabric is being used for the back. My hope is for a hanging pillow. I have a leather-y type cord so it’s pretty masculine, I think. It’ll do.

Movie Night by The Sampler Girl

I started this in 2009 and got most of it stitched then. I used what I had on-hand so some threads were changed and I used a different linen color, but stayed with the same count. The popcorn buttons are adorable. They are by Just Another Button Company – had them forever too. It’s a wonder I was able to keep up with them for so long.

I recently decided that, although a stitching addict and it’s a sickness to start one project without finishing another (admit it, you are all guilty of this too), I’m going to attempt (ahem) to finish my past WIPS. But still continue with new projects. I mean, I have too much stash as it is and it’s only going to ~~get worse~~ grow so I might as well grab thy needle and start stitching. Sooooo, Movie Night was one of them and it's done! One down and onto the next “X.”

In the mail this week, came two new charts I ordered from none other than The Sampler Girl (maybe I have a thing for Tanya…hhhmmm).

The Beggar’s Purse Sampler, where I adore the brown color arrangement and the special stitches Tanya implements in this one. Plus, who doesn't like a sampler, right? Her newly released French Folio immediately caught my eye, with all the delicate pinks, whites and blues – very fresh and 'Gai Paris'. I can’t wait to stitch these up and decorate a spot in my home.

Also in the mail, came two of my quilting magazines that my Aunt Pam gifts to me with regular subscriptions.

Better Homes and Garden’s American Patchwork and Quilting and McCalls Quilting. Aunt Pam also provides me with Fons and Porter, but that one hasn’t arrived yet, and thankfully not, because it wouldn’t mesh well with this post, now would it?! I’m not the advanced quilter like my aunt. I’m more of a beginner and an itchy-wannabe quilter, even though I do know how to quilt, I still love my magazines. They are so inspiring if nothing else.

I may even come up with another finish this week. Don't hold your breath, but definitely keep your fingers crossed :D --- Here’s to hundreds more of two of everything…Talk soon!

etui

2011-04-05T16:17:00.000-05:00

If you are really loved, someone will gift you with one of these. But if you're really, really, really loved, then someone extra special will make one and gift it to you. No drooling allowed. I don't want my etui wet or dirty...lol

I spent Thanksgiving 2010 with my Aunt Pam and the rest of my mother's (my) family. While visiting one night, my aunt presented me with an unexpected gift bag. I was rather surprised, to say the least, but inside was this beautifully handmade, personally made-with-love for me, etui. I was in total shock and disbelief!

We both love the color blue so she was on the mark with her color choices. And as far as the etui itself, I was mesmerized by its detail and functionality. I really couldn't believe it was mine; still don't. It's such a special creation that even my mother has taken it with her to her guilds for show-n-tell and received many rave reviews (well, Aunt Pam has received the rave reviews). I've taken it to our LNS and again, mouths drop and mops come out to sop up the drool.

When I opened my gift and the etui fell open, as did my mouth, it reminded me of a bloomin' onion (without the smell, of course) and as such, Aunt Pam says, "Julie, when someone makes this for you, they really really really love you." And I know my Aunt Pam does. I love her too!

Talk soon!

poses

2011-04-04T19:29:00.001-05:00

I was off work today because Cameron was under the weather and so we hung out around the house. Even though Cameron wasn't feeling well he never loses his sense of humor or his need to show off!!!

After every pose Cameron would say "And this!" "And this..."

"And this!"

"Mommy, show me your face!" (How could I resist this child?)

"Good job, Mommy!" Cameron says ;-)

friday funny

2011-04-01T10:32:00.001-05:00

Ha-Ha.....April Fool's Day!

Talk soon!

first school picture

2011-03-31T16:29:00.000-05:00

{Taken St. Patrick's Day - 2011}

I just got back Cameron's first school picture. There's a story to having his picture taken, but I can't share it. However, Cameron had been crying before this photo was taken because all the kids were getting their mugs photographed and he wanted his done too. It was finally his turn and he gave a very sweet, yet exhausting, little smile. When I showed Cameron this photo of himself, well, here's how it went:

Mommy: Look Cameron. See, it's your picture.

Cameron: [Silent gaze at the photo]

Mommy: I love this picture of you, Cameron! What do you think?

Cameron: I cute like Curious George.

Talk soon!

that is the question

2011-03-30T22:04:00.001-05:00

To cord or not to cord?

[Designer/Design Unknown (because I can't remember)]

This was the piece I mentioned in an earlier post where my late-pooch Chloe had gnawed on it, resulting in bleeding fibers. Mom skillfully salvaged one of my first completed pieces back in 2005. Now it’s 2011 and I’m just now getting around to giving it purpose. So pathetic, but I digress. I do like what its become, almost.

I laced the back, but have yet to secure it to the wooden base and that’s because it isn’t necessarily even (like I needed to tell you). I was so hell-bent on making sure it was securely fastened to the cut-out backing, that I didn’t pay close enough attention to the front that the edges were, in fact, smoothly round.

Anyway, cord or not to cord? That is the question. If I attach twisted cord around the edge to hide the uneveness I'll have a more "polished" look. If I go cordless, I'll need to re-lace the back and not pull so tightly; making sure to pay closer attention to my front, but this means starting over. Either way isn't too bad - it's all fun and I still get a homemade pincushion, nonetheless.

So, what's say you! Talk soon, shall we?

weekend wrap-up

2011-03-28T17:20:00.000-05:00

~saw the movie Battle: Los Angeles --- Jose saw this with my mom and they said it was good; entertaining to be exact. I thought I should see it too so I did. I agree with their assessment. I enjoyed it. Very entertaining and I even cried at times.

~bought more orchids --- 2 miniatures and 2 standard sized; all Phalaenopsis. And an additional orchid called a Cattleya that I get to grow myself. This will be my first attempt and I’m more than thrilled.

(this is what my Cattleya could very well look like once grown and with blooms)

~took 2 Little House Needleworks projects to my LNS to be framed ---

I can’t wait to get them back! I bought a few other odds and ends, as well, to help facilitate in some self-finishing of smalls I have. I put together a round pin cushion that I haven’t photographed yet. I found a round wooden support (whatever you want to call it) at my LNS. I have a finished piece from 2005 (gulp!), just a dainty piece, that my mother saved, when my late-pooch Chloe got hold of it years ago and did everything to it except tear it to shreds. The thread bled and it was a mess, but mom worked on it (remember this, mom?). I’ll show you later what has come of it now; six embarrassing years later.

~started a tiny freebie given by The Sampler Girl some time ago called “Downton Abbey.” The show aired on PPS Masterpiece Classic in January 2011 and I really liked it. I love how Tanya can hone in on her ability to capture a moment and turn it around with a design to share with all of us, no matter how big or small. I truly admire this designer for her simplicity and commitment to a dream. Tanya’s not pretentious and I like that a lot. Besides, she’s just a damn good person straight from the heart.

~allergies started to kick in, but the older I get the more relief I’m finding.

That’s my weekend wrap-up. It was cold, wet, sometimes rainy and cloudy, the entire weekend. Spring has sprung, but I’m ready for the warm-up. Not the teasing warm-up we had last week when we hit 80 degrees for a couple days and then flew back down into the 50s with 30s as our overnight lows.

I forgot to mention in my coming back post (LIVE LOVE LAUGH) that for Christmas 2010 I bought myself a Kindle – yay!!! I’m official…Talk soon!

PS – Thank you EVERYONE who has welcomed me back with open arms and who commented on such. You are dear to me, all of you, even if you didn’t comment…;-)

live love laugh

2011-03-25T17:15:00.002-05:00

I've been gone awhile from blogging. In fact, my last post was November 3, 2010. I haven’t had Internet service since December 2009 and it was turned back on roughly 6 months ago, with brief service interruptions here and there. Needless to say, maintaining Internet has been spotty. I’m just going to account for the last 15 months and give it to you as straight as I can.

2010

2010 was quite a year. I lost my beloved and loyal companion, Chloe, in March.

Chloe was a beautiful Vizsla, with big green eyes, long floppy ears, and the personality of a lamb. She was a wonderful, human-like girl that supplied my entire family with jaw dropping rear end pokes (it’s just how she said "Hello! I'm Chloe.") and endless love and affection for all things. She was very kind and patient with my children; all children, yet she would knock them over with excitement so grab up your little ones. I highly recommend a Vizsla for any blend of family. I buried Chloe myself at my parent’s house in the woods. A very sad moment for me, but I feel good now that I did it alone.

In April, I began working for a wonderful law firm. Yes, I said it. Wonderful law firm and highly successful too. An entertainment law firm that has more perks than pokes. I love my job and I admire the people I work with. I can say that I will be here a long time.

Also in April, Chris, who you’ve known as DH, and I got divorced. I know. I know. The “D” word. Yes, we were divorced in April 2010 and life hasn’t been easy since our separation in late 2009, but how is life after divorce ever easy? And with two children? It isn’t, but I have two extremely loving and supportive parents. Two children that keep me on my toes and sometimes on my nose. I have a great job that pays me well enough to support myself and the boys. I have my many x-stitch pals, especially my Aunt Pam, who I don’t see or talk to as often as I'd like, and my nearby lovelies, Sally and Susan. The children and I have had our ups and downs since the divorce and we continue to make strides and at times fall back, but such is life.

In May, Jose turned a corner: teenage-hood-lum. Yes, he’s 13! He is getting to be such a big person and…

quite the handful these days, which is proving to be the toughest challenge of my entire life thus far. I can’t seem to find the sweet, caring and lovable boy I thought I was raising. I wish I knew where he was.

Very few times, I get a teeny tiny glimpse of the boy who used to call me “mama,” but like I said, it’s just a glimpse. Those glimpses are when I’m happiest.

May was one of Nashville’s worst times. As a matter of fact, one of Tennessee’s worst times in history. May 2010 was the time of Nashville/Middle Tennessee’s giant flood. Maybe I’m biased, but the flood didn’t get the media attention it deserved and it may have been because of the oil crises in the gulf and the bombing attempt in New York, but we got over it rather quickly. It’s nearly a year later and some of the houses across the street from me are still vacant, still recovering. The Opry Mills Mall is still closed which has cost billions of dollars in lost revenue and lots have lost jobs. Rich, poor and celebrity lost something in this as well. No one was above the reaches of the water that weekend in early May.

My kids and I personally had to leave our home because of rising water. The homes across the street back up to one of our creeks (Mill Creek) that dangerously overflowed and flooded my neighbors’ home and made our street impassable. Two days later, we were able to come back and by the grace of God, the water only made it to the foundation of my home, but I had roof and leaking issues. Still do, but we were spared and saved. Here’s a 5-minute video (scroll down and click on the You Tube video); and a Wikipedia link, if you’re interested.

So far, my children and I survived a marital separation, a dog’s death, a divorce, I returned to work, Cameron started daycare full time, and a historical flood. All in 5 short months.

By July, my younger brother was living with us. Huge mistake in more ways than one, but I thought it would do him some good at the time. By him living with us meant that Cameron and I had to share a bed. No fun at all. But by December, my brother had moved elsewhere and life started to get back to a bit of "our" so-called normalcy.

At the end of August, Cameron turned 3.

Cameron isn’t above from demonstrating poor behavior, but he’s a wonderfully joyful child, with a radiant smile and the most matured sense of humor any 3-year old I’ve ever known to have. This child knows how to make a person laugh and he’s good at it too! He does like to talk about the normal stuff: cars, blocks, food, tattle tale on Jose, farting, bodily fluids…you know, the normal boy stuff.

He has the most energy of any one person I know and he never shuts up. He resembles Curious George too, which is actually pretty cute! He likes his new daycare and does well in all types of activities. He’s very talented and independent. And I’m proud of how well he’s adjusted to living in two places half the time.

2011

It’s now a new year and I don’t have very much stitching to show for. I did manage to finish-finish one piece by La-D-Da called LIVE LOVE LAUGH. 2010 was one heck of a year, and there’s still progress to make, but this design was suitable at the time I was stitching. It spoke in volumes and it lifted my spirits.

Unfortunately, it was the only piece I did complete in 2010, although I started many others. There was just so much to do and such little “extra” time to do it in. Now that I’ve returned to work and take care of 2 children pretty much alone, time is limited for much else.

You’ll think I’m crazy, but I did add a new pleasure to the mix of chaos. I have always been intrigued by orchids and never had the courage to keep one. Mainly because I thought they were too difficult to care for. I’ve never had a green thumb for any kind of plant; inside or out. There’s a lawyer at work that is fascinated by orchids and has a rather large collection in her office. After careful consideration, using her as my muse, and doing extensive research on all-things orchid, I have my own collection now.

This is only 1 of at least 4 that I have now. This was the second orchid bought for me by a very special person and was gifted in October. It still blooms and is spiking, as we speak. In an exclusive "orchid post," I'll unveil my other beauties; some which are species :-)

I have every intention of blogging regularly. Of course, not as regularly as everyday, but as often as I can fit into my day. I have many projects right now and maintaining orchids is actually a "task" believe it or not. They bring me joy...not as much joy as stitching, but they do bring me fresh blooms and color. Thanks for reading and hope you'll stay with me...Talk soon!

for the record

2010-11-03T17:22:00.000-05:00

...the tree in my photo blog topper was taken at mom's house last fall (by me!);

...the November Flip-it is a Lizzie*Kate I stitched and finished last year; and

...the Give Thanks pillow was last year's freebie from Beth Twist.

Hopefully I'll pull together some new memories this fall. Talk soon!

the weekend's end

2010-11-03T10:11:00.000-05:00

Had a sleepy weekend...

But managed to fit a new project in...I know. Pathetic beginning.

Started Waiting for the Harvest by Blackbird Designs. I'm using the called for WDW Dark Chocolate thread, and the same fabric count suggested, but I'm using my own hand-dyed fabric.

Halloween was a bust. We didn't do anything; no dressing up; no trick-or-treaters; no outings, which was fine by me. Cameron and I were under the weather and Jose deems himself too big for the occasion so we all stayed in. That's a wrap.

Talk soon!

**I had a brain fart. The BB calls for GAST Dark Chocolate NOT WDW. Sorry for the incorrect information.

walking

2010-10-27T10:03:00.001-05:00

Last weekend I went on a much-needed walk that I had not been on in quite sometime. Some of you may remember (or not) that a time ago I walked routinely after taking Cameron to daycare; Monday-Friday religiously. Since starting work in April 2010 I haven't had the opportunity to take as many walks as before. It's a shame really because it was key to keeping in shape and, for heaven's sake, the outing was exhilarating. A stress-buster for sure. Anyway, to make a long story short, I found Mr. Walking Stick. Boy was he big and really pretty (the photo does not do justice for him). But wait...what is that thing on his butt?

Okay, I got away pretty fast and enjoyed the rest of my walk. Talk soon!

PS---Can anyone tell me how to reduce/delete/condense my "labels?" I need to par them down. Any help will be useful!

moonlight

2010-09-17T17:16:00.000-05:00

I'm goin' to Moonlight Stitchin' with all the girls Saturday night!!! I haven't been in 9 whole months. Wish me fun with my needle and needful-gal-pals!

Talk soon!

labor day weekend

2010-09-09T15:18:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone had an enjoyable Labor Day weekend like the one I had. It was nice having a long weekend with an extra day off work, the kids not having daycare or school, and to have extra time spent with loved ones is especially nice. For the first time in a long while I felt in no rush…it was nice.

Saturday was low-key. Jose spent time out at my parent’s house and Cameron and I spent time at home. Cameron did the usual 3-year old toddler stuff. He colored. He played with blocks. He ran around outside and in. We watched a movie or two. We went out for ice cream in the evening because the weather was beautiful. It couldn’t be missed.

Sunday was low-key for Cameron and I with the exception of running an errand, but I did make brownies and managed to take hold of minor household projects. Jose was out at my parent’s still and he proved to be a lot of help to them. He helped my dad trim tree limbs. According to my mom, Jose was a pretty good assistant and these days, at 13, he hasn’t been very useful for anything, unfortunately. To hear that he provided a helping hand was relieving and once I saw the photos of him helping my dad I was over the moon with pride. It brought a much needed smile to my face.

Jose and Papa did a fantastic job and worked well as a team. Mom did a neat job at capturing the “moments” too. There are a lot more photos, but I wouldn’t want to embarrass my dad with his silly Chevy Chase facial expressions.

Labor Day was an enjoyable Monday! I was surrounded by my favorite people and that’s all that mattered. No one had to work. No children had to attend school. No deadlines and no place to be. It was a beautiful day out at my parent’s home. We weren’t grilling out until 4:00, but we arrived early in the afternoon so there was plenty of time to gather and play. I took the boys to a nearby creek which resulted in a fun time. We found some fossils as well.

After the trip to the creek and our 4:00 meal, Nana and Papa played a little ball and catch with Cameron. It was really cute. Papa took pictures.

Nana missed the pitch…

And when all is said and done and you’re tuckered out from such a glorious weekend, what better way than to sit next to Papa and relax…

Talk soon!

cameron turned 3

2010-09-01T11:53:00.004-05:00

Monday, August 30th, Cameron turned 3! If you ask him how old he is he'll tell you he's 5. He'll hold his little hand up with a goofy, toothy grin and say "I FIFE!" Then snickers. If you disagree he just does his sweet little laugh and says "uh-ughhhhh!" He's pretty convincing at times. He has a wonderful sense of humor for 3 and I love him to death.

He had a great little birthday at Nana and Papa's house with me and his big brother. He loves ice cream so Nana had an ice cream cake for him.

He's into cars and anything Cars (from Disney) related so he was gifted with some pretty BIG characters.

He had a fun time. I'm proud of my big (little) 3-year old. He's already wearing underwear...Happy Birthday, Cameron! Mommy loves you.

Talk soon!

13

2010-08-13T16:58:00.000-05:00

Today marks my parents' 28th wedding anniversary so I want to dedicate a blog-post just to them.

{Mom and Dad in Barcelona, Spain - 2010}

Happy Anniversary!!! Love you so very much.

hiatus ending

2010-08-09T17:05:00.001-05:00

After a long hiatus from blogging, I want everyone to know that there hasn't been a month to go by where I haven't thought of everyone I once conversed and shared with. I will post again shortly because A LOT has happened since December 10, 2009 (my last blog post), but this post is merely to say 'hi, I am still here and I have missed you all!'

It will take some time to get back into the "blog-of-things," but I feel optimistic, and I have lots to show and tell. And of course, my blog is severely out-dated so lots of revising is needed. Hang in there with me!

10

2009-12-10T23:59:00.003-06:00

Today is my mother’s birthday. I crashed her party somewhat - LOL. She had lunch with our dear friend, Sally, and then headed over to the LNS for some socializing and stitching time. There was no intention of my partaking, but my presence was had anyway. I don’t think either minded or at least I hope not :) I arrived to lunch mid-way and I didn’t sit and stitch. I visited with staff instead. Afterwards Cameron and I went home. I think mom had an okay time. Dad is out of town, but he’s taking her out Friday evening for her birthday once he returns from his trip. They’ll have a nice time I'm sure of it.

In keeping with mom’s birthday and using the day she was born (December 10), I’m counting the ways I love and appreciate my mom:

1. She’s trustworthy and loyal.
2. She’s reliable and selfless.
3. She’s caring, loving and nurturing.
4. She’s the best mother in the world – there isn’t anything she wouldn’t do.
5. She’s patient and kind to her crazy and testy grandsons.
6. She’s charming, funny, witty and laid back.
7. She’s youthful and fun and doesn’t look her age.
8. She’s a loving and devoted wife to my dad and he’s good to her in return.
9. She’s an excellent cook.
10. And she’s ALL mine – MY mom!

Happy Birthday, Mom! I love you more than you could possibly imagine.

believe

2009-12-08T22:38:00.001-06:00

Believe (past freebie)
The Sampler Girl
32 ct. Antique White linen
Belle Soie Sister Scarlet

I’m trying to stay optimistic this season. It’s difficult but I am trying. Without sounding too Mr. Scrooge, I’m just not into Christmas this year. I haven’t even begun to take down fall decorations in exchange for the Christmas/winter ones. It’s a sickness I think. I’m stitching on a couple of gifties and I’m not working as diligently as I should. Not with anything. I did, however, have a job interview last Thursday at an entertainment law firm down on Music Row and was luckily called back for a second interview to which I had this morning. It went very well, but still no offer as of yet. They are still sorting through the second batch of applicants and will make a third cut by next week but I feel good about how things went today. I guess I’ll know something within a week or so. I just need to believe in myself a little more these days.

Cameron believed he could build these two towers, with a little bit of mom power backing him up, to which he did succeed. And maybe mama will be successful too if she believes a little more in herself. Thanks for stopping by…Talk soon!

why???

2009-12-06T13:04:00.001-06:00

[PLAY VIDEO]

WHY??? WHY??? WHY??? WHY does my child do such things??? I call Cameron my ER Baby, and for good reason. Where does he come up with these wild and crazy ideas? His big brother wasn't even in the room so no influence there. TV was of no concern. In fact, I can't remember what was on. Cameron just dumped his blocks on the couch. Climbed up between his daddy and me and bombs away. He scared the living crud out of me at first bc it was really really loud and I wasn't expecting him to act like a kitty cat missing his step on a ledge (I was positioned to the right of the couch). I immediately stood up and of course yelled.

I mean, c'mon, are you kiddin' me?!?! Who does this except an insane trapeze artist...who by the way has a safety net underneath them...HELLO!!!! I had my phone right there (it has a camcorder) and caught his second leap of faith, which might I reluctantly add, I let him do so I could show all of you fine folks my Evil Knievel reincarnated two year old. Who's more stupid? Me or my dear sweet, Linda Blair impersonating Cameron?

Doesn't matter...we BOTH belong in the nut house...

Talk soon!

november wrapped

2009-12-01T19:32:00.001-06:00

November, for me, represented family this year as it does most every year, but this November brought forth many changes - both good and not so good. This month has been tried and true. Relationships torn and scorned. Others brought anew and one passed to another paradise (RIP Grandma Nichols). The boys and I went with my parents to Arkansas to spend Thanksgiving with my grandparents and Uncle Jimmy. It also happened to be my grandmother’s 84th birthday.

Our Thanksgiving was extra special and oh so sweet. Other than the normal ups and downs that children bring with their age(s) and the usual traveling hiccups, our Thanksgiving was memorable and savory. We even brought my parent’s/brother’s dog, Jasmine. Underneath it all, I/we enjoyed our time together. (Thanks to everyone who wished us safe and well travels!)

My parent’s vehicle was packed. There was food and luggage in every crevasse. We added the third seat for Jose and Jasmine, the dog, to sit in (they had the most room). Cameron and I had the second row seat and we were without extra space. Mom and Dad had the captain’s position obviously and they were jammed in. I must admit though, it wasn’t all too bad. I pretty much stitched the entire way.

Grandpa is always by Grandma’s side, helping her in every way. They are both so tired but he has taken the role of aid and nurse. There is loving care there for sure. He’s in pretty good shape for being able to take care of her and him at this phase of life. I admire his perseverance (or is it a lack of asking for help?) or maybe because he just has to. At some point, we all will have to care for the ones we love.

Who doesn’t love cornbread? Who loves it when it’s in muffin-style? I do! I do! I probably ate four of these. My mom had the food prepared by Cracker Barrel and I would recommend this for Thanksgiving, or any meal for that matter...anytime. It was absolutely D-LISH!!! I’m not sure how the carrots were cooked but yum is the word. That’s my plate. Less turkey, more starch – right up my alley. Cameron enjoyed his plate of food but I think he enjoyed ~~sitting~~ ~~standing~~ kneeling in a real chair more. He was content. I love this picture of him and my dad. They were so smitten.

My Dad says that when you’re at grandma and grandpa’s house your metabolism slows - LOL. I think he’s correct. Every time we’re there we want to fall asleep. As my grandma calls them, they’re a bunch of lazy bones ;-) Even Jasmine the dog got trapped in that stereotype. Grandpa loves to play Dominos. Grandma and Uncle Jimmy like to play Rook. Cameron had to get in on the action of Dominos of course and naturally Cameron lost one of Grandpa’s pieces so while out on Black Friday (OMG!) we picked up a new set for him. This photo is just too cute. These grown men in wife-beater tanks (just a term) with a little two-year old child. LOL

Mom, myself and the boys stayed at a nearby hotel bc there wasn’t enough room at the house. Cameron looked so “royal” having breakfast in bed while cozy in his flannel collared Christmas jammies in a white fluffy bed. So regal! Cameron being mechanically and technically savvy was the first person to correctly operate our hotel room thermostat controls. In fact, we couldn’t get him to leave the damn thing alone. Hot. Cold. Full blast. Auto. On. Off. On. Hot. Hot. Hotter. Hotter. Freezing cold. I couldn’t tell if I was dying from hypothermia or just melting away.

The days following Thanksgiving were memorable. Cameron made a real friend in Uncle Jimmy, but then that doesn’t surprise me. Uncle Jimmy was always good with the kids. Cameron took his nap in Jimmy’s arms and Uncle Jimmy didn’t mind one bit. More lazy bones on the couch including the dog. Mom and I stitching together. She’s stitching on a LHN project and I was sorting threads for her on an upcoming project. Jose and his Papa - they always have a good time together.

Target-filled bag of dirty cotton. Must clean cotton.

Arkansas’s main cash crop is cotton. My grandparents live in a very small town called Lake City right outside Jonesboro. They are surrounded by never-ending cotton fields. The side of the roads are sprinkled with puffs of cotton and I thought to myself “hey, that would make excellent fiber fill!” Friday afternoon, Jose and I went out and picked cotton. Okay, not exactly picked cotton. More like picked up cotton. The cotton fields had already been picked for the season so we were getting the leftovers…and whatever else blew off the trucks – LOL. Doesn’t matter. I got real, homegrown cotton for my projects and I know where to get more. Lots more! ;-)

I managed to start a piece the day we left (Wednesday) and I finished stitching it Thanksgiving Day. Can’t say what it is yet or show it clearly. I still need to get ribbon to finish it up, but it is cute, simple and sweet. I can’t wait to tackle the finishing bc I’m trying something new (to me anyway).

November is all wrapped up for 2009. The only word I can come up with, even with life’s trials and tribulations, is

Thankful (finishing unfinished)
primitivebettys
32 ct. linen hand-dyed by me
WDW Copper & GAST Chocolate
Finishing into pinkeep/ornament

I am THANKFUL after all...with a side of turkey - heehee.

December already? There are a few birthdays arriving shortly. My birthday. Mom’s birthday. Just to name a couple. Mother Winter blows herself into town – not cool. Christmas is around the corner of course. And now it’s time to put away the fall decorations in exchange for all the Christmas trimmings; however, it will take quite the flurry of whatever-it’s-going-to-take (for lack of a better term) to get myself in gear for that time of year. Honestly, I am not heavily excited about this year-end, but I am going to take one day at a time and do the very best I can with what I have. (Guess this means a blog face lift is in order to coincide with the season, ugh?) Here’s wishing Dear December will be gentle and kind. Talk soon…

grandma nichols

2009-12-01T10:23:00.001-06:00

On a very sad note, dh’s grandmother passed away late Wednesday night. She has been ill for quite sometime and her health had been declining rapidly over the course of a year. Dh’s Aunt Carol and Aunt Donna have been the most caring daughters a mother could ask for and have done everything in their power to ensure their mother’s quality of life. I’ve stayed in regular contact with Aunt Carol and Aunt Donna over the course of this year and have sent them numerous photos of Cameron so that Grandma Nichols could photographically meet her great-grandson. She always thought Cameron looked like her son (my FIL). I’m thankful dh and I could grant her memories of her past. I met Grandma Nichols once years ago when dh and I were merely dating. I’m not sure if she was spiritual or religious, but I pray she has found her way home to her higher power and that she is reunited with her love. She will be missed.

gathering tales

2009-11-25T12:00:00.001-06:00

It seems that Thanksgiving gatherings are traditional for most families but not for mine. Even though our Thanksgiving Day is spent with family, which is tradition, our holiday plan differs from one year to the next. My parents, brother, and I have always lived a distance from the rest of the family and being married hasn’t changed circumstances bc dh’s family lives in Canada (not to mention their Thanksgiving is in October-anyhoo). My FIL, however, does live nearby.

As a young child we always spent TG with my mom’s side of the family and those holidays, Christmas and Thanksgiving, are some of my first. They are my favorite keepsakes of the heart. The family was bustling with laughter and joy, bad jokes, with a little drama mixed in. Kids running around. Cookies and decorations on the tables and name tags labeling plates. Those were some of the best times of my life and a yearly occurrence.

Since those times every year our TG gatherings changed. Last year we had the addition of our family-friend join us. The year prior my BIL and his (now) fiancé and FIL joined my family (or was that Christmas?), or was that just my FIL? See how jumbled up our holidays can get. The year prior to that one was our last TG spent with my late-MIL, Barbara, who passed away the year after of cancer. My family and in-laws spent TG at their house. It was a memorable Thanksgiving because it was our last with her – a cherished treasure for me.

[Grandma and Grandpa meeting Cameron for the first time. Cameron was 3-4 months old.]

And again, this TG will be different. My parents and I haven’t traveled to be with family in quite sometime and this year we’re leaving home to spend it with my Grandparents and Uncle Jimmy in Arkansas. Don’t get me wrong, I’m looking forward to the visit, but at the same time it will be a bit sad. My Grandmother has recently been diagnosed with dementia. Physically her health has been declining for quite sometime, but now her mind is failing her. The boys and I want to visit with her while she still knows us and can enjoy us and we can enjoy her. Her birthday also happens to be the same week as TG so it’s an extra special treat for her to have us all there. My dad told me that he asked Grandma what she wanted for her birthday and she said “All of you!” Well, she’s going to get her wish and I’m happy to be apart of that gift. It’s been awhile since we’ve all filled her home.

[Play video – 10 seconds] Grandma used to do this little ditty to us when we were kids. I think it’s a southern thing but what I do know for sure is that it’s a tradition for her tickle a baby this way. ;-)

My mother has organized a TG dinner by having a local store cook an entire turkey feast with all the fixins’ and we’ll pick it up when we arrive. The easy part is no one has to cook or clean up which makes for more family time. The way I see it is none of us are wasting time. This could very well be her last birthday and her last Thanksgiving. I want to savor that memory forever and I want Grandma to carry it in her heart forever as well. This will be one gathering tale I’ll never forget…Thanks for listening to the tales. Happy Thanksgiving and many blessings to all! We're off on our Thanksgiving travels. Talk soon!

PS. I do like Blogger’s scheduled post option, don’t you? :-)

before thanksgiving

2009-11-25T00:30:00.001-06:00

It has been a really, really rough week and a half. In 7 days Cameron and I have been to see the doctor 4 times - three times for Cameron and once for myself. Luckily for us both we’re clearing up but we have lingering effects. Cameron was nearing a series of shots to cure his infection, but thankfully his round of oral meds finally kicked in and knocked down the infection tremendously.

After his 2-day vomit fest and 3-4 days of 103-104 temperature he developed a head-to-toe rash. At first I thought maybe he had an allergy to the antibiotic but he saw the doctor (3rd visit) and found that he had the Roseola virus and his ear infection was at its ultimate worst. Now he’s over ALL that and becoming his spunky, kicky-self again. He still has a runny nose and a slight cough, still on meds, but definitely on the mend.

Cameron sporting his dashing smile again and the new Christmas jammies his Nana gave him. They have doggies on them.

Since Cameron has been so sick and one of our daily, minute-by-minute challenges has been wiping a snotty nose he’s been influenced some into helping Blue Bear with his supposed snotty nose too. Only Cameron used some of mommy’s batting instead of tissue or toilet paper. Speaking of which...

I am doing better, but I too have a lingering cough. Sinuses are still a bother and my voice isn’t quite mine. I asked Cameron to get me “some” tissue and he brought back the remaining toilet paper unraveled. Isn’t he adorable?! I just had to capture this. Luckily I had the camera on the table where I was sitting. Cameron’s so funny – LOL.

I have been productive…I think. If that’s what you call it. I have done stuff. For starters I went to Moonlight Stitching at the LNS on Saturday and I had a fabulous time – one of the best times actually. I know it’s partly because of my mood but also bc of the company I kept. It would have been even better if mom were there. I sure did miss her and so did everyone else.

My friend, Sally, gave me a couple of her finished projects to finish-finish. This is one of them by LK. We’ll be finishing it into a hanging ornament which I’ve started, but I’m not posting pics until it’s complete. The orange fabric is for backing the ornament and it’s really cute. The DMC is for twisted cord.

I finished stitching primitivebettys Thankful freebie and I’ve started to finish-finish it into a hanging ornament, but no pictures of that one yet either. I’m bummed I have nothing to show on that front bc I was hoping I would before Thanksgiving but it doesn’t look that way. I've had my hands terribly full with an ill child and a sick self. I'm surprised I've gotten as much started as I have all things considering.

I joined my first SAL a week ago - The Prairie Schooler ABC Bee. I asked the LNS if they would order the first ABC chart (and they did!) and they got it in next day. Way cool! I had a piece of linen (28 ct. Natural) and the DMC in my stash so off on my start I went. I’ll post a progress photo after the Thanksgiving holiday.

Today I experimented with dyeing fabric with cinnamon ground for the first time as well as the usual dyeing process with Rit and coffee. I used scrap pieces for the job. The darker pieces are with Rit and the lighter pieces are with cinnamon and coffee. The grey/blue is with Rit. Just having some experimental dyeing fun that’s all.

Cameron and I went by the LNS today to pick up a piece of 36 ct. linen; Antique White to be exact. That wasn’t exactly what I was looking for, but that’s what I ended up getting. I had a $20.00 punch card so I used that for linen, a JBW design, and a skein of WDW. My total came to $19.39. Not bad, ugh? Anyhoo, I plan on dyeing the fabric – it’s for a specific project that I started this evening.

Well, that’s it for me. It’s seriously late. Past midnight. Tomorrow I have to pack. The boys and I are riding along with my parents to Arkansas for Thanksgiving to visit with Grandma and Grandpa and Uncle Jimmy. I’ve scheduled a blog post while I’m away so that’s checked off my to-do list. ;-)

I hope you all have a Happy and safe Thanksgiving holiday! Hugs! Talk soon!

sick & rotten don't mix

2009-11-20T11:27:00.002-06:00

Cameron has been ill since last weekend. Thursday was the first full day he didn't have a fever. So far, we're in our second day of no fever. Thursday was also the turning point for keeping food down, thankfully. He is perking up more and more, but still not fully himself. However, bc of the endless cycle of sickness in this house and the duration of its effects we are overdue of vacation and time away from each other. I'll prove that to you now. Go ahead and play this wonderful video I managed to catch.

Cameron had five, count 'em, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 temper tantrums just like this one in one day. Each lasting around 45 minutes. Think about this for one minute, or how about 5 hours bc that's about what this equates to. Five hours of ear piercing, blood curdling, I'm-going-to-call-the-Catholic-church-and-request-an-exorcism (and we're not even Catholic), two-year old hissy fit this little boy throws when he's been sick for a week. Next time this happens dh can stay home with him and I'll go off to some island with my mom and friends and sit and stitch until this little bugger is well enough to come home to. Thank God tomorrow evening is moonlight stitching! Thank God for 6 hours of time away from Cameron, away from Jose, away from dh, away from this ~~prison~~ house! I am looking forward to just getting away no matter where I end up. At this point, I just don't give a flying-flip!

Are you wondering what calmed Cameron down finally? I showed him video of himself portraying Linda Blair. He didn't like what he saw. He watched the 30 second video, turned his head away from me and 1-minute later this...

That's right sweet baby of mine...you get your rest after all that beautiful screaming you did while mama cradles herself in the corner, knees to her chest, rocking back and forth, crying for her own mommy to come make all the clouds go away. LOL Btw, I am feeling better. Not 100% but improving. Thanks to everyone for your well wishes! Talk soon!

first time SAL-ing

2009-11-19T15:36:00.000-06:00

I joined my first SAL today so as soon as I purchase the first chart, ABC by The Prairie Schooler, I'll be on my way. I'm really excited. Vonna put this together and it's a loose SAL - Vonna is so cool for it too!

If you wanna join click on the photo (also on my sidebar).

If you would like to see where people began drooling, therefore, asking Vonna if she were going to set up a blog for the SAL check out THIS LINK. (Need a Kleenex?)

I'm going to stitch mine as this model which was done on 28 ct over 1. I cannot wait to get started. Talk soon!

off our game

2009-11-17T13:48:00.000-06:00

Cameron and I are completely off our game. We’re both sick as dogs. Cameron’s fever is proving difficult to control and it’s nearly impossible for him to keep anything down. He isn’t eating much so basically fluids are all we’re attempting at this point. I took Cameron to the doctor yesterday. He has a viral infection. He’s tired. I’m tired.

I’m sick too but with something much different. I have no fever. Saw the doctor this morning. I have a sinus infection and a cough - the pain is terrible. I have a swollen throat and glands. Dh came home while I went to the doctor bc Cameron is too busy up-chucking (pardon me). I was thankful for that. (Not the up-chucking. Dh coming home and sitting with Cameron.)

Because of being off our game and having my hands incredibly full with illness the only thing I’ve managed to stitch on and get right is Rudolph by The Stitcherhood. It was a freebie last year. It took all but one evening to stitch and one evening to put together. My Aunt Pam and I stitched while on the phone together last night and this is what I finished. She finished her project too.

I’m sad. Well, sad news for me rather. Due to difficult circumstances here on the homestead we have to shut off our cable, Internet, and telephone. Sad?? Entirely. What does this mean? It means I can’t blog. Can’t blog regularly or visit all of you on a regular basis. According to dh this takes effect Wednesday. The phone I’m not too worried about bc I have my cell, however, when Jose gets home and I’m not there he usually calls me to say he made it home safe and sound. He won’t be able to do that now. The TV isn’t a huge deal bc I’m more a movie person and I have tons of them. However, I do watch certain shows through the week so maybe mom will T-Vo those for me.

I’ll stitch and work my projects as I always do. I can update my blog and visit others when I visit my mom. I usually go to her house one day a week so not all is lost completely. I can still receive email but will only get to check it when I’m at mom’s house. The only real critical problem here is that this puts a HUGE wedge in my efforts to find work. Ninety-nine percent of my search is done via the Internet and job search engines so I’m extremely concerned about this. I can’t look for a job one afternoon a week and the paper is of no source these days. One strategy I do have left is to contact a recruiter and have them on the search for me. But then, who these days doesn’t have email??? I feel like a cave woman (anyone want to pull me by my hair?).

Anyhoo, moonlight stitching is Saturday at the LNS so at least I have something to look forward to. I have many, many friends there especially my dear heart Sally. She always lifts my spirits. Unfortunately, mom won’t be there. No, she’ll be returning from Key West, Florida that evening – lucky tanned-girl.

I’m getting off-line now. Cameron needs his nap and I might even take one. I feel like crap-ola. I need to rest. We had a dreadful time last night and today isn’t fairing much better. I’m exhausted and overwhelmed. Seriously, all, I need a vacation. Talk soon!

winter-y, pumpkin-y

2009-11-13T22:39:00.001-06:00

I’m so happy! Pat who is the shop-owner of the LNS finished knitting my Midsome Mitts and I’m truly appreciative and so pleased by how they turned out. Aren’t they pretty? She did such a fantastic job. She was fast too. Go to Staci’s blog for the free pattern.

I started on Winter Row by Bent Creek. I don’t have a progress pic to share, but I started the first snowman. I’m using different color linen but the same count and I am using the recommended threads though.

This afternoon while the boys were attending school and dh was at work I decided to do some baking. I don’t get to bake very often but I’ve had this recipe for awhile now. I borrowed it from my mother and she borrowed it from her friend Judy. I believe she’s the source of the Pumpkin Coffee Cake. It is really good, however, next time I’m leaving out the chopped nuts. I can do without them. Nonetheless, it is good. I can’t wait until morning time. Coffee brewed, piping hot, and warm up that coffee cake. Yum-yum!

Pumpkin Coffee Cake Recipe

Ingredients:
½ c butter

¾ c sugar

1 tsp vanilla
3 eggs, beaten

2 c flour

1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda

1 c sour cream

1 can pumpkin (16 oz)
1 egg, slightly beaten

1/3 c sugar

1 tsp pumpkin pie spice

Streusel Topping:
1 c packed brown sugar

2 tsp cinnamon
1/3 c butter

1 c nuts, chopped

Directions:
Cream butter, sugar, and vanilla in a bowl. Add 3 beaten eggs, beat well. Combine flour, baking powder and soda. Add to butter mixture, alternating with sour cream. Set aside. Combine pumpkin, 1 beaten egg, sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Set aside. Prepare topping by combining dry ingredients and cutting in the butter. Pour half of the batter into a 13 x 9 inch baking dish. Spread to cover the pan. Sprinkle half the topping mixture onto batter. Spread pumpkin mixture over the top. Spread remaining batter over pumpkin mixture. Spread the rest of the topping o the top over that. Spread remaining batter over pumpkin mixture. Spread the rest of the topping on top of batter. Bake at 325 degrees for 50-60 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

As I type I’m falling asleep. I guess that’s a sign I must retire for the night and call it quits. Talk soon….zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

aside from stitching...a history lesson?

2009-11-13T18:34:00.001-06:00

Thursday a friend and I went to Carnton Plantation in Historic Downtown Franklin where the Battle of Franklin took place during the height of the Civil War. It was one of the most intense, yet shortest (lasting only 5 hours) and bloodiest wars fought during the Civil War taking place the evening of November 30, 1864. Carnton Plantation was owned by a wealthy and well-known family named McGavock. There are roads named after the family and 3-4 other plantation homes surrounding Nashville. President Andrew Jackson was a very close friend of the McGavock family and even stayed at their home many times during his travels. [The Hermitage (located east of Nashville) is another town/plantation, tourist spot which is the home of Andrew Jackson.]

This entire area is one giant battlefield. It’s quite extraordinary really. Historical societies and private organizations are still excavating the grounds and finding Civil War relics. The history that Nashville and the surrounding area has to offer is amazing. A lot of people don’t know, and I didn’t either until now, is that Nashville was one of the more important cities back then for supplying the Union army with whatever they needed which was a pretty big army. Everything was sent through Nashville for the entire south – pretty amazing stuff.

Photos are not allowed taken inside the home, but we are free to take ones outside. I only took a few. This photo is actually of the back of the house. Funny how the door is off center. In the main living room I noticed a ball of yarn and sheets of paper on a table. Naturally, I had to check it out. It was counted cross stitch from the 1850s. The tabletop had a removable lid and inside was more sheets of cross stitch. I guess these girls drew cross stitch patterns for themselves. It was so neat!

A view from the back porch. It’s a breathtaking view looking out into open fields with trees here and there. I can just imagine no trees at all during the 1800s. Seeing as far as the eye can see and poor Carrie McGavock (pictured above at her engagement) coming onto her porch the morning of November 30 and witnessing two giant armies, each 20,000 strong lining themselves for battle, one in the south and one to the north, on their property. Can you imagine? This family had nothing to do with what was about to take place. It just so happened that their house was right in the middle of this battle and it served as a hospital for the wounded and dying Confederate soldiers. Four generals died on this back porch.

The 2-story brick house with 2 doors was the slave quarters. One side was for sleeping and cooking. The other was for wool making and textiles. I wished I had photographed in there and am slapping myself for not. The McGavock family owned a total of 39 slaves. Some field slaves and some house slaves. Interestingly, there was a slave named Mariah (I think). She had been with the family for decades. After the war and after the Emancipation Proclamation she made the decision to stay with the family instead of being a free woman. In fact, she stayed with the family until her death. Even though slaves were not taken well care of, the slaves of the McGavock family, especially Mariah, had it better than most in the south. The small white brick house on the right was the family’s smoke house. We all know what a smoke house is, but they also made candles and other supplies in there as well. This is where they stored meat and other goods through the winter.

Here is inside the smoke house and this is just one of two giant dug out logs the family used to house meat and other goods. What’s amazing about the inside is that it still, after all these years, smells like smoke and a hint of meat. The roof is blackened and ash still remains on the walls and on the floor.

In the end, neither side won this battle in Franklin. The battle at Carnton Plantation was completely unnecessary and it was never about or for the Village of Franklin. It was about taking Nashville (about 20 miles north of Franklin) which the Union finally did win. The Confederate suffered more loss than the Union at Carnton but no one won. Each suffered great loss. The McGavock family literally went through hell this evening on the 30th of November 1964 doing all they could to sooth, mend, “put down,” house, and give peace to wounded and dying Confederate solders, and forever changing their own lives.

They continued to live at Carnton until the early 1900s. The entire McGavock family, cousins and extended, are buried just steps away from their home in their private cemetery along with the thousands of known and unknown Confederate solders that died in and around their home. I can’t imagine this battle being fought in their front yard. They owned the 600 acres surrounding their house which was the battleground and the land that encroaches downtown Franklin. Forty-thousand plus men on foot and horse, along with cannons and wagons and other supplies traipsing across the landscape at 4:00 pm. Amazing!

For those wondering what “Carnton” means it is derived from a Gaelic word cairn that means “a pile of stones”. A cairn is sometimes a pile of stones marking a grave. It’s fitting for a place like the Carnton Plantation.

Well, that’s all for the agonizing history lesson - LOL. I had a fabulous time there and always do and even though this was my third tour in 16 years I learn something new each time I go. I’ll probably go again sometime in the future and really study the graves next time around. Thanks for listening to how my Thursday went. Our dinner tonight was roasted lemon chicken, baked beans, and macaroni and cheese – Kraft style. ;-) Dessert? Pumpkin Coffee Cake! (More on that later.) Talk soon!

it IS a sickness after all

2009-11-11T14:50:00.000-06:00

Okay! Well! My needles are either on fire or I’m extremely nuts…maybe a little of both. LOL I meant to post this last night, but actually began falling asleep on the keyboard (no kidding) and had to shut it and myself down. This proves I am nuts (in a good way), and tired. I finish-finished two projects after I made my post yesterday which proves that my needles are indeed on fire including my embroidery needle and sewing machine.

28 ct. Natural linen
Recommended GAST
Lizzie*Kate

I finished November flip-it into a needle cushion. I filled it with crushed corn. How suitable, don’t you think? It’s so dainty and cute. Feels like a little bean bag. I like it and Jose likes it too. He thinks it’s cute. I'm really glad he likes one of my handmade pieces, but he's NOT getting it!

28 ct. Lambswool linen
Over-dyed threads
primitivebettys

Better late than never I suppose. I stitched Hallow’s Eve a year ago. I even machine quilted the framework of fabric around the stitched piece, but I never finish-finished it. So disappointing b/c I wanted it done so badly. Oh well. At least I got it done and I was able to use my black ric rack. I do love my ric-rack.

We finally settled on pizza for dinner last night. And my third tour of the Carnton Plantation was cancelled today but we’re going Thursday instead. I’m home alone right now, can you believe it? It’s so quiet, except for my teeny taps on the keys. I’m going to get off and see what I can get into while the boys are away. Thanks for stopping by and leaving comments. I adore each and every one of you! Talk soon!

november & dashing

2009-11-10T16:04:00.001-06:00

As of late, I am literally on fire. I just started the November flip-it Sunday night and finished it last night. I’ve had so many finishes lately. I’m not sure what my craze is. I think it’ll become a needle cushion or it can just sit in a basket or atop a shelf through November. I also started something new while at mom’s yesterday. Stacy Nash’s Dashing Through the Snow. It’s a cute primitive piece.

I love that squirrel charm. Squirrels remind me of my Grandparents b/c they used to feed them from their dining room window, and Grandpa used to feed them outside on the porch. Some squirrels would sit on his lap and eat from his hand. There have been a few bites to the hands, but that never stopped Grandma and Grandpa from feeding the squirrels peanuts. Squirrels ran through the house a few times as well. LOL Wonderful memories!

I’m stitching this on 32 ct linen hand-dyed by me. I like it so far. It’ll help with the overall primitive feel. I’m using the recommended threads - can’t go wrong sticking with the SN recommendations.

That’s all I have for now. The sun is starting to lose its appeal. Going bye-bye! The days are so short now, but the weather has been fantastic! Tomorrow I’m taking my third tour of the Carnton Plantation in Franklin, TN with a friend of mine. It’s an awesome place with tremendous history. The Battle of Franklin during the Civil War was fought there. Well, Jose will be home from school shortly, Cameron is still napping, and I have no clue what's for dinner. WOW! Talk soon!

a busy bee

2009-11-08T21:13:00.000-06:00

I felt like a queen bee today tending to my hive. In this case the “hive” stands for all my activities not home. First I went for my routine walk. It was g-o-r-g-e-o-u-s! Our high was in the mid-70's - can’t beat that. Afterwards, I went to the FedEx office store (used to be Kinko's) to make copies and print off my Jane Austen sampler for an upcoming project. Here are the ingredients:

Not too long ago, Alma and Barb’s blog had the best tutorial on how to cover a paper mache box, which I’ve done before, but they added one small clever detail to their box that I have not yet tried. They copied a favorite Quaker sampler and inserted it inside the entire box. It is so, so adorable. I just had to make one so I began the process today. The two pieces of reproduction fabric above are of original color. I adopted Blackbird’s way of removing color.

I experimented with removing color from two pieces of fabric with Rit dye color remover as they did. Blackbird was right. You have to remove that fabric quick or else. Thankfully I read their instructions twice over and was ready to take the fabric out as fast as I was at putting them in. I let the pieces air dry in the sun for a couple of hours. Here they are color removed, after drying, and before ironing. I’ve ironed them since and they look so soft and old. I love how they turned out. I’ll work on the sizing and slicing of fabric as soon as possible. I’m in no rush.

Jo March says…

I finished stitching Little Women Saturday night. I started it Friday afternoon so a fairly quick stitch indeed. I picked these two pieces of fabric a year ago for this design and they look better now than they did before. I’m glad I picked them. =)

I’m shocked I had bells in my finishing drawer, but they work, don’t they? They add a nice “ring” to the piece – LOL. Tanya was right. Christmas doesn’t always have to be in red and green. PINK will work just as well. The pink and green stripes remind me of candy canes so it definitely works for this piece. The pink with green stripes is the backing fabric while the just pink stripes are for the bottom panel.

Here it is all made up. It’s done on 28 ct linen that I hand-dyed with a pomegranate and that was a year ago. Surprisingly its managed to keep its color nicely. I used the recommended DMC thread – only three colors. I used a ribbon that had polka dots on it which compliments the berries, wouldn’t you agree? :o) Anyhoo, can’t wait to get this out for Christmas and jingle those bells!

While I was in the spirit of finishing projects and starting others I decided to get threads together for the November flip-it by Lizzie*Kate. This needs to get stitched b/c it is November – can’t waste anymore time. Aren’t the colors pretty with this one? I think so. I love those rich colors. I’m going to turn this one into a little needle cushion.

Last, but never ever, ever least is Cameron being ever so sweet and cute. I cut his hair Saturday night and as mothers we know how much older our toddlers look once we make those snips. I leave you with him playing outside today in the yard and the car.

Enjoy your Monday! We’re spending ours at Nana’s house – Yay!!! Talk soon!

decisions

2009-11-07T14:36:00.001-06:00

With trying to keep with the holiday spirit (so not me but trying to find cheer in it) and after much inner struggles I have decided to put any project that doesn’t ring Thanksgiving, fall, Christmas, or winter aside for the time being and focus on just the fall thru winter projects. I need and want more pieces to fill my home that reflect the season which unfortunately I don’t have much of.

I’m putting Mayflower Landing by LHN away even thou it will be greatly missed. I just haven’t touched it in over a month. My focus over the next couple of months is ornaments and anything winter-ish and fall. For example, I just pulled out Little Women yesterday and look how far I am already.

This is proving to be a quick stitch and much loved. Upon looking through Tanya’s Booklet One I noticed several other Christmas themed stitches that look fun and quick – I’m going to look into those as well.

When going through my stash of charts I noticed I have Paulette’s Christmas Tea design which I really want to stitch, but I need to get the Belle Soie silks first. Also, go check out Paulette's freebie bok-bok turkey - so cute! I have a teeny tiny November pillow to stitch up by Lizzie*Kate that I need to get a move on with before the month is over. There is at least a couple of other Christmas themed projects I want to start, but I won't bore you with those now; not in this post anyway. And I have the yearly stitching project for mom to do. Ahhh...! What are us stitchers to do with all this stash and not enough hands or time to stitch it all in??? Seriously! It’s overwhelming, don’t you think.!?

Anyhoo, my walk was fantastic. It was extremely windy though which was fine b/c I actually broke a teeny tiny sweat – that sun was just blazing. It was wonderful! I think the weather will be about the same Sunday so looking forward to another round. =) Well, I’m off. Cameron is napping and I’d like to get some stitching in or whatever I can do before he wakes. Talk soon!

pillow talk

2009-11-06T23:54:00.000-06:00

NOT!!! We aren’t that intimate, are we? LOL But I do have finished pillows to share with you. The first…

Give Thanks by Heartstring Primitives. I decided on a cupboard pillow finish for this one b/c of its width yet small size. To keep with fall and the pumpkin theme I used a jute-type cording for a hanger which I really like. Stitched on 18th Century Grey linen by R&R. I used a combination of Crescent Colours and GAST threads. There are a couple of mistakes, but I decided on keeping them. I backed it with an orange batik fabric which really compliments the pumpkins and the overall feel of autumn. I am pleased overall. I hope Beth likes it too! =) It’s my first finish of hers.

My other conversation ~~pillow~~ piece is…

Crows by Bent Creek. I finished stitching this a couple of weeks ago but procrastinated sewing it up into a long pillow. I kept with the fall theme again and filled it with crushed corn that I got from the pet store months and months ago. I’ve used it before for filling and it works great. I’m just happy I have it finished-finished. I’m pleased with having something else for fall.

Finally, this will ultimately become a pillow…

Little Women by The Sampler Girl. This design comes from Booklet One back in December 2008. I pulled this out for two reasons. First, because I recently started reading "Little Women" in which the very first sentence reads “Christmas won’t be Christmas without any presents” grumbled Jo March. This brings me to my second reason. Reading that sentence reminded me that I had Booklet One; that this design was included, and that I began gathering materials when it came out. Right after I took the photo of my necessaries, I put the first several stitches in. See, it says Christ already. I hand-dyed that fabric myself with pomegranate – that was a fun and messy experience. Ironically I feel in the spirit to stitch something Christmas-y (so not me) so in feeling this way I had to watch something Christmas-y…so in went Christmas Vacation with Chevy Chase. I’m a weirdo, I know. Chevy doesn’t coincide with the March sisters, but that’s me. Miss. Weirdo!

Anyway, I can’t wait to go walking Saturday. Nashville’s high will be in the 70’s and not a cloud to touch us with low humidity. OMG! That is P*E*R*F*E*C*T weather people and I’m taking advantage of it with a nice looooong walk. Ah, I cannot wait to get out there! I’ve been pumped all day for it. I must go. I want to stitch more on Little Women. Thanks for listening to my “pillow talk” ;-). Talk soon!

give thanks

2009-11-05T22:24:00.001-06:00

I finished stitching this freebie last night.

By Heartstring Primitives. I made a couple of mistakes, but I’m not going to correct them. I accept small mistakes such as these.

And I give thanks for moments like these…

After school specials.

Goodnight everyone. Talk soon!

"f" is for

2009-11-03T23:46:00.001-06:00

Floss tag…

I stitched up a little floss tag for my Aunt Pam. It’s her first one. She really loves it and was taken by complete surprise when it arrived in the mail.

ABC Bird. It’s from Alexandrina. I used 32 ct linen, hand-dyed by me, using GAST Brethren Blue, Dark Chocolate, Shutter Green, and WDW Copper. I personalized it by adding our initials and year to the back. With love always, Aunt Pam!

Fall decorations…

I traded the Halloween trimmings for fall ones. I enjoyed taking everything off my hutch, wiping them down, putting some away, rearranging others, switching items around, adding a little of this and a little of that. I’m quite pleased with my dining room area (except for the blue spongy walls). I even added a couple pieces of fabric as table linens just to give more fall coloring to the room – it’ll do for now until I can quilt some up.

Freebies…

My hopes are to get these two stitched and finished up while fall is still in session – LOL. The first is Thankful by primitivebettys. Second is Give Thanks by Heartstring Primitives. Both very talented ladies. I want to get to The Sampler Girl’s freebie called Blessings to You, but I want to finish one of these first. (Get those freebies while you can!)

Feeble…

Chia Head is looking awful. He has a white mossy substance growing near the root. Yeah, I think it’s about time to de-weed, clean that bald cranium, and store Chia away for the winter. I’m done taking care of him as I have too many things to take care of at the moment. So, a much-waited-for good-bye is in order. Good-bye Chia Head! I am not going to miss you.

Fever…

Jose stayed home from school today. He’s running a temp of 101.5. He’s having sinus pressure and head issues. I guess the crud is all in his head. Poor thing. He may need to stay home tomorrow too and we might see the doc. I’ll probably put Cameron in daycare. It will be best for them to avoid each other as much as possible at this point. Cameron’s ear infection is improving so that’s good. He’s due for another flu shot soon though. That time of year…ahhh! Talk soon!

stitch, therefore i must shop

2009-11-01T23:23:00.002-06:00

I hate shopping, but not shopping for stitching essentials, charts, linen, etc., and especially done with friends and/or family. =) Halloween afternoon I played over at my friend Sally’s house. Had so much fun! We went to her LNS which I had never been to. It was a neat little place. It had more than just stitching to glance over, but I stuck to the essentials and bought a little more stash. After wards Sally and I went for a juicy, heart-stopping cheeseburger which was d-lish. The conversation was much needed on my part, and then we headed back to her house for a little Sewing101 on a cute little pumpkin ornament she’s putting together.

Sally reads a lot. I mean A LOT. She has books in relatively every room of her house. I admire a person who reads and reads and reads. She allowed me to take pictures of her cozy library nook which is absolutely adorable and these photos probably won’t do the space any justice. For someone (me) who doesn’t read as much as they should or as much as they really want to I love looking over books. There is just something about reading over the spines and wondering what's inside. Maybe it’s the smell of the paper under the cover. I don’t know, but there is something about looking over shelves upon shelves of literature and storytelling that intrigues me.

I love Sally’s décor too. She has a thing for bunnies as well which are tastefully placed throughout her home. Did you notice her Jane Austen shelf? So cool. Sally wrote the Tennessee Criminal Law Case Finder book. She has two copies, but I had to take a photo as I’m proud to know this about my friend. She’s an attorney and I formerly worked for a criminal defense attorney so these books are intriguing and familiar to me anyway. The light is hand-painted and is really pretty. I just love this space and I enjoy the company I keep when I’m there. Sally, thanks for sharing Saturday with me. I thoroughly enjoyed our visit. Good luck with your finishing!

Shopping Saturday…

I plan to finish Bent Creek’s Winter Row into a long pillow and Lizzie*Kate’s November Flip-it into a needle cushion or maybe that’ll just get put into a basket for decorating. No needles required.

I couldn’t believe how many LHN charts this shop had in stock. I love the house series, but really want to stitch the Two White Houses first so that’s the one I purchased. Funny thing is that I’ve never seen Necessities Sampler before. In fact, there were some I had not seen before Saturday. I love it when that happens - it’s like new found treasure. I saw CCN’s Forest Snowfall and had to have it! The verse is so sweet and the little deer-bunny combo sold me. Pretty colors too. You know, you just can’t go wrong with his mother-daughter duo, can you?! Has everyone seen the Ornament of the Month Dianne has designed? These two amaze me with their talent and speed at which they create.

Shopping Sunday…

(L-R) 32 ct. Ice Blue for Winter Row, Bent Creek; 32 ct. Antique Ivory for Clara’s Skating Sampler, The Sampler Girl; 28 ct. Confederate Grey for Forest Snowfall, Country Cottage Needlework; 32 ct. Flax linen for Rain in the Country, The Sampler Girl; 28 ct. Vintage Autumn Field for Mr. Darcy, The Sampler Girl; 28 ct. Raw linen for November Flip-it, Lizzie*Kate.

The best part about all the gorgeous linen is that I shopped at moms for it – LOL. The boys and I went to mom’s house for a French toast breakfast, mixed with fruit and bacon, and coffee. Orange juice for the boys. After cleanup, which I gladly took on, I went through mom’s gobs of linen for these new charts I just bought and ones I received last week. If you can imagine, I’m pretty happy right now. Giddy actually.

Sally allowed me to borrow Little Women. I’ve never read this story. Can you believe that? I know…shame on me. Sally already crossed her fingers at me so I get it – LOL. I read about Louisa May Alcott. What an intriguing and robust woman she was. It makes the temptation to read her novel even more the fancy. So without further ado…Talk soon!

halloween

2009-10-31T22:07:00.003-05:00

Boo-Brothers...

Becoming Jack...

Ghostly Encounter...where's the baby? where's the baby?

There goes the neighborhood (from my friend Sally's hood)...

Lily's 5th birthday...

Happy Halloween!

PS ~ I'll post about my visit with Sally and any stitchy progress I have to share later on. Talk soon!

the unfinished finished: part 1

2009-10-30T22:51:00.001-05:00

I felt like getting "some" (I said some) of my finishes that need finishing out and showing them off especially that Hallow's Eve by primitivebettys. When am I ever going to get to all these? It's not like they'll be difficult to finish. And there are still more stashed away in my craft space. Ahhhh...sometimes I could cut my own arm off and throw it at myself.

Tomorrow I am going to my friend Sally's house to play. I can't wait! It'll be so much fun and I can't wait to see her. Other than my mom and aunt she's my best bud. I just adore and love her. But first I'm running by the LNS in the morning to be sized for my mittens that Pat (shop owner) is knitting for me. I can't wait for those. She already started on them too. Yippy!

My interview went extremely well this afternoon. I actually had fun, but like I've said before I can have fun anywhere, but these guys were really fun and laid back. These lawyers were wearing jeans for heaven's sake!!! I've never worked for a firm where you could wear jeans. I was shocked. The only downside is the pay isn't so great, but the atmosphere is fantastic and so was the staff. I really don't know which way the scale will tip if they decide to call. I'm pulled.

Thanks to Barbara from across the pond for wishing me 'good luck' on my interview. I so appreciate the hug, YOU! And to everyone else for your well wishes. I get to see a new shop tomorrow with my buddy Sal! I'm giddy! Onto the next...Talk soon!

new stash

2009-10-29T17:59:00.000-05:00

See...I said earlier this morning that I was a spoiled daughter. Look what came in the mail today from my dearest mother. ALL Sampler Girl products, of course, from Tanya's $5.00 one-day sale last week. I'm so happy about these designs. Love the card!!

Like I said before, I am the luckiest, most blessed daughter and niece in the entire world. Btw, Cameron's doctor appointment went well this afternoon. He does have an ear infection but nothing ear drops and antibiotics can't cure. He has no temp and no other illness so that's a much needed relief. He goes to daycare tomorrow, however, because fantastic news for me...I have a job interview!!! I haven't worked outside the home in 2 years so I'm a bit nervous. Wish me luck. =)

Well, I must be going. Dinner bell is ringing - nothing special tonight. Onto the next...Talk soon!

just another hodgepodge

2009-10-29T09:09:00.002-05:00

I wish my posts were as interesting as everyone else’s, and I wish I could come up with a better title for this post. I hate when I can’t come up with something well-fitting and catchy. “Just another hodgepodge” will have to do.

Went over to mom’s Monday and it’s always a circus. Meaning I bring the circus where ever I go. Meaning my kids especially Cameron. He is a handful these days. Mom wanted to tease me further and this was on the front door.

Sorry for the glare. It was a beautiful day for Nana’s and apparently for "Edward" to greet us at the door. Ah, mothers can be so cute, can’t they? LOL

Mom bought these Gummy Brains for Jose and of course Cameron wanted some brains too. Good thing Jose was sort of in the sharing spirit. Jose took the rest of them to school yesterday in his lunch. These boys are spoiled rotten by Nana. I’m a pretty spoiled daughter too. Spoiled niece as well!

When we arrived home I was pleasantly surprised by a package from Aunt Pam. When I went to Ohio last I went through my aunt’s reproduction fabrics. I saw this fantastic Moda fabric I just had to have. She couldn’t part with it, and understandably b/c she’s using it for a project, but she did allow me a 6x3 snippet. My thought was to take this to the LQS and buy some. I went to the shop and they didn’t have it and can’t get it. I told my aunt of my defeat and disappointment. I wasn’t going to stop there though. My search will continue. Well, search no more! The pleasant surprise was my aunt mailed me a fat quarter of the Moda fabric!!! I was and still am ecstatic! Am I not the luckiest, most blessed niece in the entire world??? I think I am. I went from a snippet to a fat quarter and all b/c I’m loved. =) Thanks again, Aunt Pam. I love you!

Progress on the first tree is taking shape. The alphabet hugs the entire length of the tree line and of course more trees will be stitched. Let’s just say that the alphabet serves a root-like purpose. Stitching the animals is turning out fun and looking kind of spiffy - LOL. I’m enjoying it, but I haven’t stitched on Trees in a couple of days. I've been working on smalls and dyeing fabric.

I’ve stitched on this surprise piece the last two days – finished it up Tuesday afternoon. Just a slight peek is permitted at this point. I did use GAST and WDW.

I’m just about complete with re-organizing all the DMC. Boy, it’s a lot of floss!!! I’ll put these containers into a cabinet in my crafting area. Much more efficient and accessible – love, love, love the sound of that!

I can’t knit. I was taught once, but there is no way I’ll be able to knit something like THIS. I’ll procrastinate. Never will get it done let alone start it. Staci is gracious with this pattern of hers and I simply fell in love with it. One of the shop owners of the LNS is a knitter and since we have known each other for about 15 years I felt comfortable to ask for her knitting expertise. I went by the shop and she helped me pick out the right type of yarn. I think the yarn I picked will turn out beautifully for this pattern. I can’t wait to see them turned into mittens. I know Pat will do an excellent job!

I think the Chia Head is on his last grassy knoll. He is looking pretty strung out, isn’t he? His ~~grass~~ hair looks like tangled wires at this point. I still give him water and for the past couple of days we’ve had no sunlight so things are looking mighty grim for Chia – heehee…And Thursday, Friday and Saturday we’re forecast for rain and thunderstorms. Imagine that.

I started a couple of small freebies, but I’ll post on those later. I’m trying to get into the fall-feeling. I love summer so much but I am trying to feel the fall season. I do like the color changes – it is pretty, but I don’t like the chilly air especially cold winters. I haven’t been able to get outside for walks this week. Thank goodness for tread mills and indoor exercising. At least I have that. Cameron has a nasty ear infection so we haven’t walked or been to daycare. One of his ears is leaking fluid and I know he’s uncomfortable. We see the pediatrician this afternoon.

Finally, Halloween is on a Saturday instead of a week night, but neither of my children is going trick-or-treat-ing. That is fine by me though. I really don’t enjoy walking around the neighborhood begging for candy. I know the kids love it, but I can live without it to be honest. I asked Jose about it but his response is “I’m too old to dress up,” so Jose won’t be going out. Since Cameron has an ear infection and we don’t have a costume we’re going to pass this year. Cameron won’t miss it. In fact, I don’t think he’ll care. Besides, there's enough cool stuff on TV that night to keep us busy, and I do have plenty of stitching.

Well, I best get off. Cameron is watching Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. This child is funny. Lately he's been getting into these movies as well as other more mature movies. At this age Jose was watching Barney. Funny. Onto the next...Talk soon!

"expressions" by cameron

2009-10-25T13:06:00.002-05:00

Cameron has been quite the expressive little toddler this weekend and I have to share his accomplishments with all of you. Cameron hardly says a word other than Mama and Dada and the occasional yes or no nod. Now that doesn't mean he doesn't make a sound because he does. Boy does he ever!!! He's loud and sometimes disruptive. He decided to copy us and say some words this weekend...FINALLY! I'm so proud of him. This weekend Cameron said:

Jose
Papa
Baby
Red
Nut
More
"D"
"E"
"O"
Harry Potter

Isn't that fantastic? For some reason Cameron is really interested in watching Harry Potter so he attempted to say the name several times and I'm not going to hold him back.

Remember my mentioning reorganizing my DMC inventory/storage? I've adopted my Aunt Pam's system. I'm having so much fun getting this all together. Here's where I started.

I've made lots of progress since I took this photo. And trust me when I say this, these aren't the only Loran bags I have either. I have 3 of my own and then I inherited my late-grandmother's and my late-aunt's DMC stash as well. Currently I am finished organizing mine, but now I have to go through theirs. This part shouldn't take too long b/c the bags and boxes are already set up. It'll be nice when this is all organized though, but for now I'm having fun.

Cameron wanted to express himself in creative ways just like mama so a coloring Cameron went...

He enjoyed sitting in his chair next to me while he did his thing and I did mine. Doesn't he hold his crayon with such precision?

Cameron is currently taking his afternoon nap and I'm finishing the laundry and posting this. :) I think I'll get back to organizing my floss and maybe try and stitch or start a finishing project. We'll see what time allows for me...Onto the next. Talk soon!

i dyed last night

2009-10-23T16:13:00.001-05:00

I actually did. I dyed some fabric last night. Not much; just a 16x16 of 32 ct. Antique White linen piece.

I used Rit dye in Taupe and actually dipped, baked, and ironed twice over. I’m happy with the results. There are a few ‘smalls’ I’d like to stitch on this. If you can believe it I ironed the fabric twice. Not sure what the deal is.

Jose and I just returned from seeing the movie Paranormal Activity. Whoa! What an interesting movie that was. It was extremely creepy and very entertaining. Even had its funny moments where we laughed out loud. I found out that both the actors were only paid $500 for their part. That's insane!

The Sampler Girl is having a classic one-day sale today. Five Dollars on everything except for select items, but mostly everything is $5.00. Go check it out and place your order.

Well, gotta run and pick up Mr. Cameron from school. I bet he's crying every time that door opens, the bell rings, and it isn't his mama yet. :( Poor thing. So pathetic. Talk soon!

such a hodgepodge

2009-10-22T21:48:00.001-05:00

It was a very pleasant morning. Walked an hour. Ran errands. Picked up some needed supplies and had a super-duper lunch with Mom and our dear friend Sally. The day remained pleasant throughout so I picked Cameron up from school a little early, bought him some McDonald’s fries, and headed home. When I arrived I had goodies waiting for me.

I bought one of The Sampler Girl’s Jane Austen trinkets. I’m attaching it to a necklace. I got a head start on Christmas and bought JOY, an ornament that comes with a festive design to stitch. I also bought the chart Busy Nothings. I really, really love this little needle cushion. Lastly, I received a sweet freebie chart along with my order – can’t ask for anything more. A great little package to end my day, but that’s not all.

You are never going to believe what else arrived in the mail today!!! Ladies, you will die…and be insanely jealous. Feast your eyes upon this…

Look who the card is from. Ugh-ah! Love, Edward ;-) Okay, I know…I wish. We all wish, right? My mom is a riot, I swear. Mom sent me a Halloween card and the boys their very own card (not from Edward though). They all play music too. The Edward card plays a song from the first soundtrack album which I love. All I can say is that I died when I opened this. I died twice more when the music played. I died three times after that when I saw who signed the blasted thing. LOL I immediately called my mom laughing in hysterics. She’s a hoot! I love you, Mom!!! You know how to make a daughter’s day bright and her heart laugh and sing. ((Hugs))

Okay. I made the decision to frog the mistake I made. I just couldn’t bear leaving it. However, it wasn’t as bad as I first thought and obviously so b/c I was able to re-stitch what was wrong and I added the year and my initials to the piece all in one night. I’m glad it’s finished. Now I can make it into something out of the star fabric I bought. Yay! More on that later.

Now for the freak show…

Chia Head is literally a freak of nature. No pun intended I swear! I can’t tell what’s wrong with this thing, or what isn't. Chia has a receding hairline for starters. He was born in a kiln obviously. Look at that massive hole in his head. And the grass is so straggly that I’m afraid of getting too close. It might reach out and grab me like Robbie's braces in the movie Poltergeist. Remember that scene in the bathroom when he’s brushing his teeth and checking out his braces??? The wires from his braces become long and straggly and begin to cocoon him in the corner of the bathroom, directly from his mouth. OMG!!! Chia’s hair is like hundreds of tentacles waiting to leach onto something (ME ‘cuz no one else is taking care of it). There is absolutely no uniform to them. I can’t wait for this thing to die.

I’ve shown you a photo before of the bridge and the moon with blue skies, but these are more photos (taken with my cell phone) this morning of my trek across the bridge, down the embankment, under the bridge, and back around to the other side underneath. Did that make any sense? Did I say bridge too much? LOL It’s just a magnificent place. It then trails for miles along the river. So peaceful and calm. In the distance (may need to click to enlarge) you can see the General Jackson docked at Opry Mills. Anyway, this is where I walk every day, most days. At times there have been deer a mere 20 yards away – that’s pretty close.

Tomorrow Jose and I are going to the movies for lunch. We’re seeing Paranormal Activity. I know, I know. Creepy!!! But we love this kind of stuff. I’m going to begin my DMC storage transformation tomorrow – can’t wait. I went to Dollar General today and found clear shoe box containers for a buck each. Woo-Hoo! Onto the next…Talk soon!

"unfortunately julie"

2009-10-22T17:07:00.002-05:00

I saw this on Monique’s blog and decided to see what happens. I went to Google and typed in unfortunately julie. Monique didn’t have much fun, but mine were actually quite silly. Here were some of my entries…

Unfortunately Julie…

* was recently informed that most of the cats had been poisoned over a period of a few days. (Sorry Aunt Pam)

* lost her role when it was discovered that she had posed for Playboy magazine.

* was unable to resist her first love and slept with Hart.

* Andrews never sang it.

* and Meaghan are up for elimination this week, will they manage to dodge some votes?

* & Julia isn't entirely about Julia Child.

* has moved to the mainland, but we would like to thank her for what she has contributed to the company.

* is sometimes whiny, often self-indulgent infatuation with all things Julia is not so amusing.

Now that I’ve searched for unfortunately julie I have to admit that mine are goofy and funny. It didn’t take much time and some, if not all of you, will be familiar with what these are talking about. I think they are silly. I know my family will laugh at a few; maybe even try it themselves. :) Now, get back to whatever it is you were doing. LOL Talk soon!

a productively fun day

2009-10-21T21:51:00.001-05:00

Jose and I had a fun lunch with our friends today and afterwards we went to McKay’s - a used book, CD, and more store. We had a delightful time together. We giggled like two little kids (I would say two little school girls, but he might get offended). I had store credit so that made it guilt-free spending, sort of. He got a video game and a couple of books. I found an Elmo movie for Cameron, a movie for myself, a new edition dictionary, and my favorite find, the Anne of Green Gables book on CD. I can’t wait to listen to this. I’m thinking I can sync this to the iPod and listen to literature while I walk.

One can never have too many fat quarters, wouldn’t you agree? I went to the LQS looking for a specific pattern. Reproduction of course. I couldn’t find it. I asked about it and they can’t get it. It’s Moda! Go figure…Anyway, there are other places. However, these fat quarters are exceptionally close to the pattern I want with a mere difference of base color. Six fat quarters for fifteen dollars – not bad in my book. I even had a helper named Jose. :)

I also went by the LNS and picked up some WDW and GAST threads so I can frog the crud out of Crows (that sounds funny – lol), start on another project, and bought a piece of 32 ct. linen so I can hand dye it.

Here is the Dutch beauty. Trees by The Workbasket. I’m stitching it on 32 ct. Exampler Vintage which is probably one of my favorite hand-dyed linens. It’s gorgeous and has plenty of variation. Plus, it’s versatile enough for so many designs. I love the owl, but so many more cute animals to come.

I normally wouldn't bash JCS and I'll try not to, but I am extremely disappointed with the latest issue. I think I managed to get through it in 0.8 seconds it was that terrible. I didn't enjoy it at all. There are two things of slight interest. One is an ad I saw - I'm going to visit the website at least. And two, was a dainty little design that says Happy Holidays (I think). Not sure that I'll make it into a mitten, but I do like the "primitive" feel and the Charlie Brown tree. Other than that this issue is blah.

On a more positive note, I'm adopting a system from Aunt Pam to implement a new way of organizing my DMC threads. I still use the Lorann cards and the bobbins and the floss bags and ALL this for storage. I don't like it. My aunt has a fabulous system set up for her DMC and I think it'll work beautifully for me as well. So far I have the 3x5 index cards and zip lock bags. Next I need storage containers so I think this calls for a trip to Dollar General or the like. Tomorrow might be a good day for that since it's a "me" day. Friday is movie day for me and my biggest baby. :) Talk soon!

the good, the bad & the ugly

2009-10-21T19:36:00.001-05:00

The good…

I measured and fitted Elmo for his finishing into a pillow for Cameron. I stitched Elmo 10 years ago for Jose but never got around to framing it. Cameron smiles every time I show him Elmo so why not make use out of something I made long time ago. All that’s left is sewing up the opening and it's all Cameron.

Betty (primitivebettys) recently put out another wonderful freebie on her blog just in time for fall and Thanksgiving. I love how Betty allots plenty of time for us all to stitch them up. However, I can’t decide which color to use. I want it monochromatic and obviously in fall tone. I have the colors pictured to choose from, but I would really like to use Sarsaparilla by WDW most of all. Have you seen that color? It’s fabulously Thanksgiving-ish. It’s the same color that borders my Crows I’m working on by Bent Creek. Anyway, Betty’s primitive Thankful is so sweet and I’ll be starting that as soon as I pick out the color I want.

The bad…

Cameron is soooooo bad but in such a gooooood way. I took half a dozen photos of Cameron in the cowboy hat. I just couldn’t help myself. Then he showed me his nose.

The ugly…

Don’t EVER, EVER, EVER, EVER stitch while sleeping. To Self: Duly noted. Look at this mess!!! Notice the bottom left hand border. From pumpkin to left corner is down one stitch?? Ahhhhhhhh…I could literally strangle myself. I see frogs in my future. I know better than to stitch when I’m asleep, but its become such a ritual to stitch in bed. The positive note is that it is only that bottom left side ~ WHEW! The only other issue is that I have to stop by my LNS Wednesday (which isn't a bad thing) b/c I have no more of Sarsaparilla to fix this or finish that teeny tiny speck you see still left un-stitched at the top. (I haven’t forgotten about you Shari ;-)

The rest of the week should be pleasant enough. Since Jose is on break we have some things planned. Cameron goes to daycare and I’ll go for my walk the rest of the week. I’m looking forward to it. I’ve been on the treadmill in the mornings since Sunday and I need to be outside in the open air. Afterwards we’re having lunch with a buddy of mine. We have other errands too before picking up Cameron.

Thursday or Friday we’re going to see a movie together. Something scary and jumpy. One of those days I’m dedicating to myself though so I can hit the library, Joann’s, and any other place I can get into trouble in. LOL Bottom line…I need away from my house.

I’m off to continue stitching on Trees. I’ll show this Dutch beauty off soon. I’ve almost got the first tree stitched. This piece is really cute. Talk soon!

Edited to say...that I was wrong in thinking that Sarsaparilla is a WDW thread. It isn't. It's a Gentle Art thread.

grandma’s pillow finis

2009-10-19T21:00:00.002-05:00

I finally finished Grandma’s Pillow and I am jumping up and down with joy. After sewing the back and pressing it with my iron I literally stood back and my legs wiggled I was so excited at the outcome. ;o) This is the best pillow finishing I’ve ever done! Grandma would be proud. I found a way to make ALL four corners look identical to which I am ecstatic about. I was having trouble before...but…not…anymore. I love finding new ways to “up the ante” especially when you happen to stumble across them instead of planning them out. That’s the best way to learn, imho.

Sequence of events…

I added buttons and vintage lace. Grandma would have loved this idea. I’m quite pleased, if I may say so myself. ;-)

I love the fabric I picked. I was unsure at the LQS, but bought it anyway. I am so glad I did. It is from Windham Fabrics, Colonies Pink and Blue III circa 1870. Grandma’s Pillow measures 13”w x 9”h – a perfect size, I think. I ironed interfacing and pressed the entire piece once I turned it right side out.

I’m so happy with the finish ~ one of my favs! I went to moms today and had a show and tell. She was quite impressed as I knew she would be. I’m getting better at finishing which Aunt Pam would be proud of b/c she’s an appliqué/embroidery queen. Her threads are hidden so well and she would be so surprised at my skills on this piece. I may have to bring Grandma’s Pillow along to the next moonlight stitching to show it off to my ‘home girls.’ ;-p

In the foreground, notice the tiny black and white photo encased in the gold frame? That’s my grandma when she was just a toddler; Anna Kaufhold as stitched on the pillow. That picture was maybe taken around 1919-1920. She looks like a doll.

Gotta run! My final 2009 Stacy Nash club kit came in the mail today. Yay! It is Christmasy and oh so darling. I’m stitching on my Crows tonight. I think I can get it done this evening. And I finished kitting up Trees by The Workbasket last night and even started it, but more on that later. I’m typing out loud…lol…Talk soon!

the chia head

2009-10-18T10:02:00.001-05:00

I can only imagine what this thing will look like with a head full of grass. Already it appears out of a horror flick. Look at those side burns...Talk soon!

table: before & after

2009-10-17T20:32:00.001-05:00

Yesterday I posted about having numerous projects I wanted to tackle. In order to wrangle those projects I need space, clean space. But I have one problem. My craft table is a mess.

So what's a girl to do???

Clean it up, sillies!!!

Whew!!! Now I can begin my projects. After my walk this morning I came home and started cleaning this area up. I stated yesterday that living in Tennessee you learn fairly quickly that weather forecasts are usually wrong and I was correct. It was cold and very windy this morning. It was 40 degrees, but it did not rain one bit. Not at all today. Then I find out that the remainder of the week we’re to see almost 70 degrees. I can live with that. That’s if that is correct weather forecasting. But I digress; back to the projects…

I’m adding buttons and cotton vintage lace to ‘Grandma’s Pillow’ (as I’m calling it from now on). Lace will be added atop too. I really can’t wait to get this complete and laying on my bed. Since the “photo shoot” I began sewing the lace onto the piece. I concurred with Aunt Pam and decided to use fiber fill instead of a store-bought pillow form. This way I can make it any size my heart desires. I’m really pleased with my choices thus far.

[Play video]

First, please ignore the floor. We have long overdue plans to replace it. It’s partly ripped up so it looks pretty raunchy (and that’s an understatement) at this point. Second, try, try, try and put out of your mind the music DH is playing in the background. He's categorizing music on his PC. Anyway, Cameron was sitting on Chloe, our 80 lb Vizsla. She didn’t mind. Then she nonchalantly rolled on her side. Play the video of Cameron – he’ll do anything to get her back up. Too cute.

Sunday…Chia Head status. Yay! LOL Talk soon!

supplies and fabric and progress, oh my!

2009-10-16T23:01:00.001-05:00

Today Cameron went to daycare and Jose was home from school. Fall break began today and will continue through next week. I went walking this morning. It was pretty chilly out but nothing a good hard walk couldn’t do to help heat things up. It was perfect! I spent a lot of time in the parking lot afterwards to cool down and do some thinking as if I don’t do enough of that already. Oh well. Afterwards, I headed home to freshen up and check on Jose. I drove to the LQS after lunch. Here are the goodies I picked up…

[Sorry the photos are blurry. I’m still using Jose’s camera. I can’t afford a new one for myself at this point.] I found tons of rick rack (baby rick rack too) which really pleased my heart - made me think of grandma. I had some vintage lace cut and that was satisfying to find that on huge spools for next trip out. I love variety and abundance. I also bought other odds and ends. I basically just stocked up on accessories for when I sew and embellish needlework. I had more purpose to be at the LQS than just for accessories though. I went for fabric. Not a lot, but enough for specific small projects I would really like finished by year's end. For instance,

this is Petite Rouge Lettres that Blackbird Designs gave as a freebie earlier this year. I finished this some time ago, but never finish-finished it. I’m finishing it into a pillow. I picked reddish/white reproduction fabric to compliment the color palette of the piece. I may add some vintage lace but haven’t decided just yet. And,

this is 2007 Christmas Special Edition by Lizzie*Kate. I started stitching this when I was recovering from my cesarean after having Cameron. However, I didn’t complete it until 2008. Here we are in 2009 and I just now decided on its finish. A wall hanging for the Christmas/Winter season. The green and red fabrics are both reproduction and I haven’t decided on the backing fabric, but I can decide on that later. I just want to piece the front together. “Baby steps, baby steps, baby steps into the elevator…” Lastly,

there’s progress on Crows – a fine day by Bent Creek. While I was shopping around I decided to pick up fabric for this one too (why not get a head start, right?). The mottled star pattern was with the Halloween fabs. There are some really sweet Halloween prints, I must admit! This fabric will work nicely with Crows, and it plays off the star perfectly, imho.

I’ve just been informed that the final Stacy Nash kit for 2009 will be coming my way very soon. I cannot wait! I’ve stitched and finished all the ones I’ve received so far this year (there have been 3). Each one has been unique and fun. Quick too.

First thing Saturday morning, and I mean first thing, I’ll be taking one of my long, hard walks. The weather calls for rain and 49 degrees as the high, which the temp may be even lower that early in the morning but I do not care. Well, I do, just not enough to stop me from my daily routine. Besides, living in Tennessee means the weather forecast is usually wrong; dead wrong. All the time. Anyway, I need this time to walk. It does a body gooooooood! I’m off to sit n’ stitch, and I should probably get crackin' on some of these projects too. Oh wait...I still have that table runner to start cutting and piecing ~ duh ~ LOL. Talk soon!

cha-cha-cha-chia

2009-10-15T19:24:00.000-05:00

Either too cute or too gross! Not sure which. :) In person this thing is pretty gross looking and feeling. I'm sure once it has grass it'll feel more natural, but until then I don't want to touch it. Maybe it'll grow a mullet. That'll look attractive, don't you think? If it doesn't, we can certainly groom it so. This may potentially become quite fun and therapeutic for me after all. Wa-ha-ha!

Jose received the Chia Head as a gift in the last year and finally it's getting put to use. (For those who have kids, you understand the amount of toys that NEVER get used in the timely manner in which they should. Now I don't feel so bad.) Anyway, back to Chia Head...Sunday DH and Jose decided to get this out and start the planting process. I'm impressed actually. I'm surprised it sprouted so quickly. I'll keep you posted on its grassy hair-Yay for you, ugh?!. LOL Talk soon!

crows & a lizard

2009-10-14T18:06:00.028-05:00

I stayed up way too late last night (1:30 am) stitching on Bent Creek’s Crows – A Fine Day, but at least I got a lot of stitching done. :) No complaints there! I'm going to make this into a long pillow instead of framing it. It's easier. It's faster. It'll be more fun turning it into a pillow.

This morning was misty and cool, but I didn’t care. It didn’t stop me from ~~singing~~ walking in the rain. Walked for an hour or so. I just don’t care what it’s doing weather wise. When it comes to my walks nothing stops my stride. I have to walk to feel normal these days. It helps my sanity. I have way too much crud going on in my noggin these days to just let it roast.

I saw this little guy cross my path and took his photograph with my cell phone camera. He was much prettier than this picture presents. He was redder in person. Dh says it’s a skink, but who am I to argue? I haven’t a clue. I just thought he was sweet and he didn’t mind my being there.

OT (off topic for those who don't know) – I’ve been looking for full time work lately. I need to go back for many reasons to which I won’t bore you with, but looks like I’ll be returning to the ole law firm environment. That’s what I know best so I suppose I need to start there. Wish me luck in my search! Talk soon!

Julie's Keepsakes

getaway

thy hancock and winter abound

mrs. rodgers' neighborhood...part 2

*love & peace*

mrs. rodgers neighborhood...part 1

journey

paging dr. cameron

meet ms. elizabeth hancock

quickie

mother's day

smitten over

shows open!

"good news" post

downton abbey

i love a good mystery!

memory

2x2x2

etui

poses

friday funny

first school picture

that is the question

weekend wrap-up

live love laugh

for the record

the weekend's end

walking

moonlight

labor day weekend

cameron turned 3

13

hiatus ending

10

believe

why???

november wrapped

grandma nichols

gathering tales

before thanksgiving

sick & rotten don't mix

first time SAL-ing

off our game

winter-y, pumpkin-y

aside from stitching...a history lesson?

it IS a sickness after all

november & dashing

a busy bee

decisions

pillow talk

give thanks

"f" is for

stitch, therefore i must shop

halloween

the unfinished finished: part 1

new stash

just another hodgepodge

"expressions" by cameron

i dyed last night

such a hodgepodge

"unfortunately julie"

a productively fun day

the good, the bad & the ugly

grandma’s pillow finis

the chia head

table: before & after

supplies and fabric and progress, oh my!

cha-cha-cha-chia

crows & a lizard

love & peace