tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48997251288807494612024-03-13T09:00:29.621-04:00Girl with NeedlesTales of a girl who stitches and knits, among other things.TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.comBlogger325125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-19231487292250944052013-03-12T18:00:00.000-04:002013-03-12T18:00:03.215-04:00Work leads to StashI had to go to Atlanta last week for work meetings. Honestly, you don't want to hear about them. I'll just say that on the whole, they were productive and move to what you really want to see and hear about....new stash!<br />
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I had to stop by my favorite needlepoint shop <a href="http://www.institchesatlanta.com/" target="_blank">In Stitches</a> to pick up a canvas I had ordered and the next in a series of small canvases they had for me. The canvas was the first to be found and brought out. I had ordered this after seeing one in the shop that is similar, only the bunny is pink and sitting. Blue is more my color and I can't wait to figure out how to stitch this one. I'll be saving it for a class sometime later this year.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LYjCUSllZ08/UT0liXNpO7I/AAAAAAAABqE/aURU0FtCkG8/s1600/Bunny+needlepoint+stash.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LYjCUSllZ08/UT0liXNpO7I/AAAAAAAABqE/aURU0FtCkG8/s320/Bunny+needlepoint+stash.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Isn't it adorable?!?!?!? The gold is a bit sparkly, which is really cool. No idea how I'd finish it were I to ever get it stitched, but I'm sure I have plenty of time to figure it out.<br />
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While I was waiting for someone to find my tree canvas I got to looking at the table full of canvases from two, yes TWO trunk shows. I found two Raymond Crawford canvases I really liked. One is a small state canvas for Florida...<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hfJzy4DlzDw/UT0m8Jj7ZUI/AAAAAAAABqM/THH-k7OiUkY/s1600/Florida+new+stash.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hfJzy4DlzDw/UT0m8Jj7ZUI/AAAAAAAABqM/THH-k7OiUkY/s320/Florida+new+stash.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Very bright and has lots of potential for sparkly goodness.<br />
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I don't have any Thanksgiving canvases, so I decided on Give Thanks and found threads that I liked to be able to start it at some point soon.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t3uAY01AaZM/UT0nOwn-4QI/AAAAAAAABqU/LCX8JX0trFM/s1600/Give+Thanks+new+stash.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t3uAY01AaZM/UT0nOwn-4QI/AAAAAAAABqU/LCX8JX0trFM/s320/Give+Thanks+new+stash.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I'm going to do some thinking and digging in some stitch books before I do anything. Try to figure out what fun stitches I should use.<br />
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Finally I found a cute insert for one of the luggage tags so I went ahead and got that as well.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8nZ83OFj6mk/UT0nhIWwX5I/AAAAAAAABqg/79djLIW_OiQ/s1600/garnet+and+gold+luggage+tag.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8nZ83OFj6mk/UT0nhIWwX5I/AAAAAAAABqg/79djLIW_OiQ/s320/garnet+and+gold+luggage+tag.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I'll stitch my initial in the center and then it can be put in the tag that I bought but forgot to take a photo of.<br />
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The rest of my stash enhancement consisted of buying some stretcher bars that I needed. And I might have had them order me another canvas that will hopefully be there when I go back to Atlanta next month. All in all a fruitful and fun trip after a week of work. I mean, I earned it right??<br />
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<br />TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-90391715826363375792013-03-10T15:52:00.000-04:002013-03-10T15:52:15.387-04:00Figurative February check-in<a href="http://lottloft.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://www.lottloft.com/images/themeBanner_2013_doctor.gif" /></a>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">Figural February</span> </span></h4>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Who are the people in your neighborhood...your WIP neighborhood, that is? Give your people-populated Projects some face time this month. </span></blockquote>
This month's ornament challenge, in keeping with the regular theme, was to stitch a snowman (or snow woman). I choose a kit from my vast stash. I think it turned out adorably.<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);">"Snow" by Glory Bee. I still need to make it into a proper ornament. </span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bh3r4wXMF8I/UTzdQ8kI4vI/AAAAAAAABpk/8hb4ZBQKyAY/s1600/DSCN0044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bh3r4wXMF8I/UTzdQ8kI4vI/AAAAAAAABpk/8hb4ZBQKyAY/s320/DSCN0044.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);">One of my EGA 2013 Finishing Challenge pieces is "Christmas Adam & Eve". I made a little progress the few days I worked on it. At least it got the date in the bottom part so I can work on it at stitch-ins and I did put some more of the wording in. Although its on 40 ct so that might not work out well either. This pieces looks larger in pictures then it actually is. </span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iEKKmVGNRCA/UTzdY7YV4qI/AAAAAAAABps/qJ8qZ00tJbc/s1600/DSCN0043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iEKKmVGNRCA/UTzdY7YV4qI/AAAAAAAABps/qJ8qZ00tJbc/s320/DSCN0043.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);"> </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);">Since my RA decided to drive me crazy this month I decided to work on "Noah's Mantle". Didn't get a lot more done, but it's progress. I'm looking forward to seeing how this will look as it progresses. It's on 18 ct. fabric and is worked with perle cotton fibers. </span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6Jcz5gtgwD0/UTzkOc0kAfI/AAAAAAAABp0/p0V83Ad1dmo/s1600/Noah%27s+Mantel+02282013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6Jcz5gtgwD0/UTzkOc0kAfI/AAAAAAAABp0/p0V83Ad1dmo/s320/Noah%27s+Mantel+02282013.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);">That's the round-up for the month. Sorry for the lateness. I keep blaming work, but that's really been a lot of the problem. I just got home from a week in Atlanta for work and maybe a few hours of fun. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);">March Madness is here and that's going to be fun. I won't have TONS to show, but hopefully a thing or two. The ornament is 3-D...I'm still debating this one. I have an ornament I'd like to stitch that's in my stash of ornament kits. I'm going to pull it out and see how far I get on it. Hope everyone enjoys stitching in March!</span><br />
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TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-85073635580792121292013-02-09T17:49:00.000-05:002013-03-10T20:20:33.153-04:00Jardin January (late) Month End<a href="http://lottloft.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://www.lottloft.com/images/themeBanner_2013_doctor.gif" /></a>
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Many of my friends will tell you I'm usually running a bit behind, late if you will. I will admit that this is a little extreme. I really meant to be on time with my end of month round-up but as you can tell I didn't make it. I actually didn't have a lot more to snow from my mid-month post but here goes.<br />
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I decided it would be fun to try and stitch an ornament a month with the ornament themes. I still have a few, ok closer to hundreds, of the kits from the Oranment Exchange I was part of with a group of far flung stitching friends. Since the theme this month included a tree I decided on this one..<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/girlwithneedles/8458401889/" title="Orny tree. From free pattern. by GirlWithNeedles, on Flickr"><img alt="Orny tree. From free pattern." height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8089/8458401889_072c7952e0.jpg" width="375" /></a>
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The kit came from DF Heather, yes our own Theme-a-licious Heather. She used the free pattern from Rainbow Gallery and included all the really interesting fibers used. The fabric has a metallic thread though it. I can't wait to get this one finished. I had some lovely fabric in my stash for the back so now I just need to decide if it should be a pillow or flat finish and the embellishments.<br />
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Another piece I decided to pick up was Christmas Adam & Eve by Notforgotton Farm. I purchased this at The Attic on a trip and changed the fabric, sorry I don't remember to what and I can't find the bag it was in. It calls for Antique White, but the people didn't show up so I liked this more khaki color. Another one I think will be fun when it's finished.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/girlwithneedles/8458402717/" title="Christmas Adam & Eve by GirlWithNeedles, on Flickr"><img alt="Christmas Adam & Eve" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8530/8458402717_84220c4058.jpg" width="375" /></a>
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Finally I made a start on Ellen Chester's Quaker Sampling III. I bought this to be a sort of companion piece to the other of Ellen's I did for my parents 50th Wedding anniversary. For those familiar with this piece you will immediately notice that I changed the fabric and the fiber color. The fabulous Drema at <a href="http://www.needlecraft-corner.com/" target="_blank">Needlecraft Corner </a>helped me find the perfect blue fiber and a fabric to make it pop. <br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/girlwithneedles/8458403361/" title="Quaker Sampling 3 by GirlWithNeedles, on Flickr"><img alt="Quaker Sampling 3" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8385/8458403361_607fc459f0.jpg" width="375" /></a>
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I'm stitching on 36 ct Very Light Examplar with 1 strand of Gloriana 12 strand silk "Velvet NightSky". I'm in total love.<br />
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That's all folks. As a review, I only touched these 6 pieces...<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/girlwithneedles/8458832459/" title="Jardin January roundup by GirlWithNeedles, on Flickr"><img alt="Jardin January roundup" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8247/8458832459_5f3b82d318.jpg" width="334" /></a>
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I didn't make any further progress on the pieces I showed at the mid-month point. Oh, for those wondering, yes all of these are also part of my EGA chapter's finishing challenge. I'll show you the final ones later this month. The ornament will have to be completely finished before it can count as completed for the challenge, but for purely stitching it's my first finish of 2013!<br />
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My RA has decided to flare up so this first part of February hasn't been as full of stitching. I have embraced the new monthly ornament theme and should have one finished with a snowman on it by the midpoint check in. Hope everyone else is having a better stitching month!TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-7566062737767571822013-01-17T12:11:00.000-05:002013-01-17T12:11:23.145-05:00Jardin January Theme-a-licious Check In<a href="http://lottloft.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://www.lottloft.com/images/themeBanner_2013_doctor.gif" /></a>
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Jardin January<br />
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The holidays were a little stressful...let's relax in a nice garden. Work on any piece with flowers or garden.</blockquote>
Another year means another try at <a href="http://www.lottloft.blogspot.com/p/theme-licious-2013.html#graphix" target="_blank">Theme-a-licious</a> with my DF Heather. This year I'm getting off to a fairly decent start.<br />
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Toccata #1 progress so far:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2Unx0semd5o/UPbeAHamdMI/AAAAAAAABoo/auogWaIcABk/s1600/DSCN2099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2Unx0semd5o/UPbeAHamdMI/AAAAAAAABoo/auogWaIcABk/s1600/DSCN2099.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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This piece is a tad addictive. You pick it up to work on a square and boom, you finish that square and think "Ohhh, look I've accomplished something! Lets keep going!" I'm waiting to get bored with it. Hopefully that won't happen since this is the SAL (Stitch-a-Long) for 2013 with my EGA chapter. <br />
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Daughters of Longbourn Hall progress:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uNRDzpTo0gA/UPgm-3ed01I/AAAAAAAABo4/IpDUQPfMCUw/s1600/DSCN2100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uNRDzpTo0gA/UPgm-3ed01I/AAAAAAAABo4/IpDUQPfMCUw/s1600/DSCN2100.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Look! A person! I'm excited I made so much progress on this piece. I'm amazed. This is one I'm planning on working into each month's theme. I'll have to be creative, but hey, that's the fun of Theme-a-licious!<br />
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Well I meant to get this posted right on the 15th, but work and life conspired against me. I'm headed for a weekend of fun with friends in Atlanta later today. I doubt I'll post anything before I return, but you never know. I have some catch-up posts I need to get finished, but I really doubt I'll have time this weekend. But I will return to post another day...soon...I hope....<br />
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<br />TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-33982449330094619912013-01-14T18:38:00.000-05:002013-01-14T18:38:00.054-05:00What's this "finishing" they speak of?Actually I have finished a couple of things during 2012, and I plan on trying to finish a lot more in 2013. Let's get to what I actually accomplished...<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xCxD7klVPgk/UPNAt5NFMOI/AAAAAAAABoY/wfs1godyKXU/s1600/mosaic88da1b973642764290253cfd846b110cff0e9a30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xCxD7klVPgk/UPNAt5NFMOI/AAAAAAAABoY/wfs1godyKXU/s1600/mosaic88da1b973642764290253cfd846b110cff0e9a30.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a><br />
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Ok, so it's not a ton of stuff, but that's ok too. I finished one thing that had been in my WIPs for a very long time and two new things. Plus there's the "finishing-finishing" I did!<br />
<br />From left to right starting at the top: Winter Garden Gate (Moss Creek Designs), FSU seal (no idea the designer), Noel Ornament ( ??? ), Rose (no idea the designer), Feathered-Friends Santa (HeathStrings/The Artists Collection, JSC 2005 Orny edition), HallowEden (Plum Street Samplers), Noel (painted canvas), Long May She Wave (Ellen Chester).<br />
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I included some things that I'm fairly certain I finished stitching before 2012 but did the actual finishing this year like the FSU seal and the Rose. The other ornaments I finished stitching this year and wow, even did the finishing for two of them.<br />
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Winter Garden Gate has been in my WIPs pile for a long time. I even tried to finish it as a SAL with DF Heather a few years ago. Getting it completed in 2012 was fantastic. That makes 3 of the 5 Gates that Rae designed are complete and a wall in my house. When Heather came down to go to the Sun Region EGA stitching weekend with me last year we started another gate. Sadly I haven't worked on it since. <br />
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With everything that went on in 2012 I'm pretty impressed I managed to do all this. I'm looking forward to 2013 and getting a few other things out of my WIP pile and hopefully some more ornaments finished. I've actually got a box full of ornaments I've stitched but haven't finished. I think I need some "finishing" days this year.<br />
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Thus ends my look back at 2012. Now to look forward!TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-75703242081095835662013-01-13T17:48:00.002-05:002013-01-13T17:48:36.919-05:00On the first day of 2013 my needle managed...(Disclaimer: It took me forever to upload my pictures so you'd have something to look at and not just a lot of words. I blame work.)<br />
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To actually stitch a few stitches. I decided to make a start on the SAL my EGA chapter decided on for 2013. I have to admit that Toccata #1 was not my first choice, I was hoping for the canvas piece we had on the ballot. But that's ok, I'm game for a new project and this one looks interesting so I ordered my kit and got it before the New Year. I actually didn't have a lot of time to stitch. I spent part of the morning getting the linen ready, it needed a good ironing and then had to be mounted on some scroll frames. I decided to go ahead and put it on scrolls since the piece is pretty good size and there's pulled work in it. I need some tension for that kind of stitching.<br />
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Then I was distracted, in a good way, by lunch with a friend. We decided to try out a pizza place in Orange Park that brews their own beer, and has a lot of other interesting craft beers on tap. We haven't had a chance to catch up and talk for awhile so that turned into a 4 hour lunch. That's my <strike>excuse</strike> reason for not having more done. I really only worked on it for a few hours.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/girlwithneedles/8378494228/" title="Toccata 1 on Jan 1, 2013 by GirlWithNeedles, on Flickr"><img alt="Toccata 1 on Jan 1, 2013" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8507/8378494228_f82a5d5852.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a><br />
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I figure this will count for Theme-a-licious as well since there are flowers in this one, somewhere in those multitude of squares. I'm also going to pick up Daughters of Longbourn and see if I can't make some progress on it. I've decided that the Bennett sisters will be included in my Finish Challenge list so hopefully I'll make some progress and **gasp** even finish it this year. A look at it at the beginning of the year...<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/girlwithneedles/8378495870/" title="Daughters of Longbourn on Jan 3 by GirlWithNeedles, on Flickr"><img alt="Daughters of Longbourn on Jan 3" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8073/8378495870_3597294a96.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a><br />
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So, that's the first 2 items on my Finish Challenge list, there will be 8 more before the month is through. We'll see what else decides it wants to be finished to hang on the walls, or sit on a shelf, this year. TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-14694706922786213732012-12-31T22:25:00.000-05:002012-12-31T22:27:04.471-05:00Going out with a WaveI'm sure most everyone has given up on me ever posting to my blog again. I'll just say it's been a tough year. For those who don't know me IRL I had to have some major surgery this year. Things started taking a bad turn in January and weren't great until the surgery in August. The 3-4 week recovery time stretched to 7 weeks out of work. Thankfully I started a new job in March with a great company, working for a great boss who understood what was going on. Then a week after I was back at work my dad had to have a pacemaker put in. The good news is I think we've all settled down into a somewhat normal routine now.<br />
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I might have been sick, but I still managed to stitch and knit some. I've got some pictures to regale you with a little later, not all at once. I mean, I wouldn't want to overwhelm you or anything now would I? Well that and I need to break out the camera and take some actual photos! My DF <a href="http://jackiecastson.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Jackie</a> was over Friday stitching and watching season 1 of Sherlock with me and she saw some of my goodies all finished. She insisted I needed to get back to my blog and since I promised her, and DF Heather I would...and because I have a finish to share, today was as good as tomorrow to start back.<br />
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Oh, the finish? You want to see? Well the picture isn't fab, I took it with my phone, but you'll get the idea.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/girlwithneedles/8331270933/" title="Long May She Wave by GirlWithNeedles, on Flickr"><img alt="Long May She Wave" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8221/8331270933_5b0d020a44.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a>
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It's the completed stitching for Long May She Wave (now you get the title right?) by Ellen Chester. Ellen came to our duClay EGA Chapter earlier this year and taught this lovely piece. I can't believe I actually finished the stitching. I even went today to find the thread and other things I'll need to do the actual finishing. I had hoped to get started on it this evening, but I'm a little too tired to manage that. I'll try and work on it tomorrow. I'm very excited to get this accomplished as Ellen is headed back to Jacksonville to teach another class for us in 2013. I'm all signed up and it will be a first for me to finish one of the classes I've taken from her.<br />
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I'll be posting some other pictures and some musings soon. There's lots going on my my stitching/knitting/needlepoint life. Our EGA chapter decided on a great SAL for this year, Drawn Thread's Toccata #1. We're also doing a challenge to help those of us with issues completing things. We'll see if it helps me or not. Plus I've been making some progress on other classes I took last year and the monthly clubs I joined. Oh and there's <a href="http://www.lottloft.blogspot.com/2012/12/theme-licious-2013-themes-announced.html" target="_blank">Theme-A-Licious</a> over on Heather's blog. I mean, I can't resist with the chance to post this banner at least a couple of times a month...<br />
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<a href="http://lottloft.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://www.lottloft.com/images/themeBanner_2013_doctor.gif" /></a>
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I'm a sucker for anything with Mr. Tennant in it. And I like the themes too. <br />
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So please come back and stay tuned. I'm getting back into the swing of things, catching up on my favorite blogs and hopefully things will stay sane, or at least what passes for sane in my life!TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-48762131275797417792012-03-26T21:14:00.000-04:002012-03-26T21:14:07.415-04:00Liebster Blog AwardThe very sweet Alice over at <a href="http://pinsandneedles-alice.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Pins and Needles with other cat things</a> blog gave me a new to me award. Thanks Alice! <br />
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Here are all the details about the Liebster Blog award:<br />
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<i>Liebster is a German word, meaning favorite, dearest or beloved, and the Liebster is awarded by bloggers to other, newer bloggers who have fewer than 200 followers, to spread the word and help the new(er)bies gain wider recognition.</i> The award comes with four conditions that each recipient must satisfy when accepting:<br />
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1. Choose five up-and-coming blogs (with fewer than 200 followers) to award the Liebster to.<br />
2. Show your thanks to the blogger who gave you the award by linking back to them.<br />
3. Post the award on your blog. List the bloggers you are giving the award to with links to their sites. Leave comments on their blogs so they know about the award.<br />
4. Share five random facts about yourself that people don't know about you.<br />
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My 5 blogs with fewer than 200 followers - this was harder than I thought it would be.<br />
<a href="http://corgiscottage.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Corgi Cottage</a> - Laurie has beautiful stitching and sweet Corgis. What more could you want?<br />
<a href="http://karolinescorner.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Karoline's Korner</a> - I love Karoline's blog for the stitching...and well because of where she lives. I dream of going for a visit!<br />
<a href="http://wooley-thoughts.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Wooley Thoughts</a> - Melody is a dear friend and I love seeing all her WIPs. I'm lucky and get to see most in person since we don't live too far from each other and are both members of our local EGA.<br />
<a href="http://totstitch.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tot Hill Farms Stitches</a> - Chris is a fantastic stitcher, plus she makes great pictures of trips she takes.<br />
<a href="http://knitkimberknit.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Knit Kimber Knit</a> - Thought I'd throw in a little yarnie-goodness only blogging. Kim knits and spins. I just love all the colors. Plus she's a collector of sock yarn, love me some sock yarn! I'm not sure how many followers Kim officially has, so she's kind of a wild card.<br />
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5 Random Facts about myself: (these are always hard!) <br />
1. I was on a competitive swim team as a teen, before my parents moved me to "the country".<br />
2. I love rabbits/bunnies/hares and really want to own one but never have.<br />
3. I live in Florida but I'm not that fond of the ocean, I'd rather be in the mountains.<br />
4. I collect cookbooks.<br />
5. Sadly I like all the "Housewives" shows. Everyone has their vice.<br />
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I keep meaning to share something fun with everyone. Now is as good a time as any since we need some pretty pictures.<br />
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Anyone want to take a guess what this is?<br />
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Maybe this will help....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kr--u41TDfM/T3ESJQX-_sI/AAAAAAAABnU/rWxpR-PQjYk/s1600/DSCN1945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kr--u41TDfM/T3ESJQX-_sI/AAAAAAAABnU/rWxpR-PQjYk/s200/DSCN1945.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
The last time I went to my hairdresser she had this for me in her car. The perks of having a hairdresser that also deals in antiques. She figures its from the 70's. She found it at am estate sale and immediately thought of me so she picked it up for me. I had some cleaning to do, but it turned out nicely. I love it. I put it in my office, which still needs some work to turn it into the office/craft cabana.<br />
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I'll leave you with some final pictures and wish everyone a great week!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-STjHu7fmcic/T3ESST-4m4I/AAAAAAAABns/pVWXMlghujU/s1600/DSCN1948.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-STjHu7fmcic/T3ESST-4m4I/AAAAAAAABns/pVWXMlghujU/s320/DSCN1948.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-58002029787069174862012-03-05T20:16:00.000-05:002012-03-05T20:16:08.505-05:00What the March Madness Winds Blew InWell March has come in here all blustery and that has helped me pick something different each day. I think what I'll do this month is try to work on something different each week day that I stitch but let the weekends, especially Sunday, be my wildcard day(s). Sunday gets special treatment because I tend to knit while watching that week's NASCAR race and chatting with my knitting/crochet buds who are fellow fans. So, here's what's been done so far.<br />
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1st - If you were reading yesterday's post you'll remember the "key to quality blogging - foreshadowing" moment I threw out for you all to ponder. You see I stuck with Blackwork Band Sampler from Rae Iverson/Moss Creek Design since I was making some good progress. Managed to finish up the satin stitch border and work some more of the vines.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C4X4IqIrZ18/T1Q8rY8-GOI/AAAAAAAABmw/t_P9AGGbHMg/s1600/DSC_0162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C4X4IqIrZ18/T1Q8rY8-GOI/AAAAAAAABmw/t_P9AGGbHMg/s320/DSC_0162.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
The first was also my first day as an employee, rather than a contractor/consultant, at ING. I'm excited about this change. I'll also be changing jobs within the company, but that comes a bit later, first I have to hand over the large project I just took over in February to a new contractor. That will take a few weeks since she also has to learn the way ING does things.<br />
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2nd:<br />
Decided to go back to Long May She Wave by Ellen Chester and see if I couldn't finish one of the small pieces that gets attached to the book. Went with the needlebook front and managed to finish it. Of course that's because it's so tiny and the red and white stripes are closed herringbone with is so easy and goes so quickly when worked "in hand". Isn't it cute??<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-Y-hASHH9g/T1Q9qfNkItI/AAAAAAAABm4/HpXCghQ6hg8/s1600/DSC_0163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-Y-hASHH9g/T1Q9qfNkItI/AAAAAAAABm4/HpXCghQ6hg8/s320/DSC_0163.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I know it looks almost exactly like last month's flag, but really it's different, and even smaller.<br />
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3rd:<br />
One day last week I got a new goodie from market in the mail. I totally blame my DF Jean for this one. She's the one that pointed it out to me and of course I had to have it. I mean, it's Noah's Ark! So, I decided to get a start on it. It goes quickly since it's on 18 ct and is stitched over 2 with a single strand of pearl cotton. It's going to be fun to work on and I may have to pull it out to work on it when I'm tired this month. This is called <a href="http://www.thesilverneedle.co/bentcreekkits.html" target="_blank">The Noah's Ark Mantle</a>. <br />
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4th:<br />
The 2nd race of the NASCAR season brought out my version of Saroyan. I'm knitting it with a 4 ply cotton yarn that I found on Etsy. It changes colors so right now it's just blue, but soon it will start changing to the next color. I love this colorway. I think it will make a great piece to wear this summer, or next considering how slow I'm knitting on it, with a cute dress or tank top. I've only managed to get 5 repeats done, but hey, I have all season right?<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/girlwithneedles/6807272908/" title="Saroyan by GirlWithNeedles, on Flickr"><img alt="Saroyan" height="300" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7178/6807272908_a52243c755.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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Next weekend I'll be in Atlanta with my friend and work buddy Theresa R. We're going to take a class for the painted canvas called Halloween March. I'm looking forward to playing with something new and fun.<br />
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Hope to everyone is having fun with their version of March Madness!TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-57905007152180906562012-03-04T23:02:00.002-05:002012-03-04T23:02:59.840-05:00Fangirl February!<img border="0" height="76" src="http://www.lottloft.com/images/themeBannerShiny.gif" width="400" /><br />
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I'm REALLY late with this post. No excuses, I've just been busy with work and...and...like I said I've got no excuse. Anyway, you don't come here to read, you come here for pictures.<br />
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Fangirl Febrauary was fun. I ended up not working a whole lot of different things. I got started on Long May She Wave, a class I took last year with Ellen Chester. When I started it I just had a few red & white rows done. I worked on it until I finished. This is the front of the book that you end up making after you've stitched all the little pieces. I was excited to get this finished. It's the largest part until you start putting it together.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--wLfCXsHl8M/T1Qy8-d8h8I/AAAAAAAABl4/2_YuguR0xSw/s1600/DSCN1959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--wLfCXsHl8M/T1Qy8-d8h8I/AAAAAAAABl4/2_YuguR0xSw/s320/DSCN1959.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I also worked on one of my favorite of all time pieces from Rae Iverson. I took Blackwork Band Sampler back in 1998. Interestingly this is the class where our fearless Theme-a-licious leader Heather and I met. I do have a picture from the last time I pulled this piece out so you can do a little before and after comparison.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nn1SZ2d7I4I/T1Q1RCUpiuI/AAAAAAAABmA/75pMkHR9nkU/s1600/DSCN1485.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nn1SZ2d7I4I/T1Q1RCUpiuI/AAAAAAAABmA/75pMkHR9nkU/s200/DSCN1485.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vFrfZ1bV-RY/T1Qy6swizaI/AAAAAAAABlw/Suksn9QjoQM/s1600/DSCN1958.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vFrfZ1bV-RY/T1Qy6swizaI/AAAAAAAABlw/Suksn9QjoQM/s200/DSCN1958.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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This one is getting close. Of course I've been saying that for YEARS and as you can see I still haven't finished it. I'm sure it will show up again soon (foreshadowing).<br />
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I also pulled out a needlepoint piece that I've been working on to finish. I've only got her hair to put in and she'll be ready to go to the finisher. Here's how she looked at the end of the month. I really only worked on her one Saturday, so it's not a lot of progress.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mHOe4NQqw2I/T1Qyz5GW0oI/AAAAAAAABlg/gA5GgnAVZM4/s1600/DSCN1951.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mHOe4NQqw2I/T1Qyz5GW0oI/AAAAAAAABlg/gA5GgnAVZM4/s320/DSCN1951.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Finally I took Ann Dale with me to Sampler Guild since it's our guild project this year. Didn't get a whole lot done since I tend to do more talking than stitching. However, I got more of the ground under the trees finished so that's progress.<br />
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I also did some finishing. I stitched this several years ago and have never done anything with it. I have no clue why I went with this grey fabric, but I like how it's ended up now that I've got the box made.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O6cFUhFT1vs/T1Q5Zo-SyjI/AAAAAAAABmI/ccgw2VmT8W0/s1600/DSCN1954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O6cFUhFT1vs/T1Q5Zo-SyjI/AAAAAAAABmI/ccgw2VmT8W0/s320/DSCN1954.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I also picked up my pieces that I took to the framers. Have a look.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LalU_1WKaSw/T1Q6RORvzuI/AAAAAAAABmg/ypxxi_am_Qs/s1600/DSC_0165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LalU_1WKaSw/T1Q6RORvzuI/AAAAAAAABmg/ypxxi_am_Qs/s320/DSC_0165.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter Garden Gate</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nXLhSlKyjgo/T1Q6T9QZW_I/AAAAAAAABmo/gnRxzuTH44s/s1600/DSC_0166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nXLhSlKyjgo/T1Q6T9QZW_I/AAAAAAAABmo/gnRxzuTH44s/s320/DSC_0166.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HallowEden</td></tr>
</tbody></table>March Madness has begun and I've actually worked on a few different things. I might even manage to get a post out before the end of the month!TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-35477585620083383202012-02-01T17:33:00.015-05:002012-02-01T17:33:00.299-05:00Jardin January update<img border="0" height="76" src="http://www.lottloft.com/images/themeBannerShiny.gif" width="400" /><br />
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I have plenty of reasons why I haven't posted in a month and a half. Things like Christmas, going to the Champs Bowl game to see my beloved Seminoles play, a trip to Atlanta for some time with friends and for work, then home where I've felt "a little puny" for a few weeks. But those would all be excuses and really no one reading this cares about them. All you care about is pretty pictures of what I've been working on this month.<br />
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I had grand plans...GRAND plans, let's review the list.<br />
<ul><li>Margaret W Brown 1838</li>
<li>Tulip Slip</li>
<li>Winter Garden Gate</li>
<li>Pansy Garden</li>
<li>Wild Woodviolets</li>
<li>Antique French Ribbons</li>
<li>The new Christmas Stocking</li>
<li>Ann Dale</li>
<li>Misty Morning Vineyard</li>
<li>Anniversaries of the Heart</li>
<li>Daughters of Longbourn Hall</li>
<li>Mary Corey</li>
</ul>Now let's see what I actually managed to accomplish.<br />
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When January started Winter Garden Gate looked something like this...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GR9_Qc_iDgE/Tyh6mBesO6I/AAAAAAAABkc/H5nbPz2R5yU/s1600/DSCN1547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GR9_Qc_iDgE/Tyh6mBesO6I/AAAAAAAABkc/H5nbPz2R5yU/s320/DSCN1547.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I'm happy to report that I finished it and even managed to take it to the framers where it's currently hanging out. I'm so excited! Since this one was started in 2005 I think it counts not just for Theme-a-licious but also WIPocalypse! I'll have to remember and hopefully show a picture of it framed when it's time for that post in February. See how pretty?<br />
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For whatever reason the only other piece that kept calling my name was Ann Dale. I made a start on it Jan. 1 and just kept picking it up. I didn't take it with me to Atlanta, it's a LOT OF FABRIC to travel with, but I'm happy with my progress so far. Most of the ladies in my Sampler Guild are working on this so I'm anxious to see how much progress everyone has made. The colors are so very me, all those reds and greens. This is one that I hope will continue to hold my interest. We'll have to see. I have a bad habit of starting large projects and then loosing interest. Oh who am I kidding, I do that with small projects too. All that "ohhh, look at the new start/project/shiny" gets in my way. But take a look and stick around to see what comes next.<br />
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And now comes Fangirl February. A Valentine to our favorite designers. Back in December I had a nice long list of designers I thought would be good candidates. I'm fairly certain at least one of those will make the cut and I might have to pull out something from another favorite. So for now here are the possibilities:<br />
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<ul><li>Moss Creek Designs - I have plenty of WIPs from Rae I can choose from. Decisions, decisions.</li>
<li>Ellen Chester - There are a few that I have in my stash. PLUS the fabric and fiber for Quaker Samplings III came in the mail the other day. Maybe getting a nice start on that is in order.</li>
<li>Plum Street Samplers - Again, I have more than a few designs in my stash I can pick from here and some are even kitted up ready to start.</li>
</ul>The problem is I have plenty of designers that I would be happy to work on. I could add Blackbird Designs on and work on AOTH, or Mirabilia and work on Christmas Fairy. I'm really going to have to think about it for a day or so and see what feels right. Hopefully I'll do better in February and you'll see an update on the 15th that will show some progress on something. I might even have to pull in some needlepoint for the month! Until then I hope everyone's stitches are perfect! <br />
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For those who want to see more about Theme-a-licious and check out <a href="http://lottloft.blogspot.com/2012/01/theme-licious-jardin-january-wrap-up.html" target="_blank">The Magic That Is Heather's blog. </a>TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-79755944640605500382011-12-19T20:14:00.000-05:002011-12-19T20:14:59.051-05:00Getting ready for 2012First a big southern welcome to my new followers. Can't believe I have over 50 now! I'm sure some of you are finding me because of what this post is all about. Let's hope 2012 brings us lots of stitching time!<br />
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It seems I'm in the mood to start making lists for next year. I'm a great one for the making of the lists. I love lists. I even like to cross things off them. The problem comes when I make lists for stitching/knitting/crochet purposes and then aren't able to cross items off. I sometimes get discouraged and in a rut. But still I make them.<br />
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So, now I can make lists for <a href="http://lottloft.blogspot.com/2011/11/theme-licious-2012.html" target="_blank">Theme-a-licious 2012</a> and <a href="http://measi.net/measiblog/2012-wipocalypse/" target="_blank">WIPocalypse 2012</a>. The best news is that they aren't mutually exclusive lists and really each month's theme will help me figure out my list of WIPocalypse. I've kind of been throwing some ideas around in my head for Theme-a-licious, especially for January. My problem is do I want to use that challenge to focus on a single project each month or just create a my monthly rotation around the theme? Decisions, decisions. If I were only more like my friend TheresaR I wouldn't have such a problem. Unlike me of the many WIPs, she's a monogamous stitcher.<br />
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Here's what I've come up with so far.WIPs for WIPocalypse are noted as well. <br />
<u><b>Jardin January</b></u><br />
<ul><li>Margaret W Brown 1838 - I'm using Jean's (of The Attic fame) conversion. (WIP)</li>
<li><a href="http://thistle-threads.com.mytempweb.com/blog/index.php/2011/06/needlework-nibble-to-support-exhibit/" target="_blank">Tulip Slip</a> - my EGA chapter went together to purchase this as a project this year. We've contemplated doing the finishing in a program in 2012 so this makes great sense.</li>
<li>Winter Garden Gate - cuz, well it's SO close to being finished and if I don't get it done by then why not have a nice finish to start the year? (WIP)</li>
<li>Pansy Garden - and old UFO from ASG one year (WIP - kinda obvious)</li>
<li> <a href="http://www.barberryrow.com/hc/k056.jpg" target="_blank">Wild Woodviolets</a> - this is a silk gauze piece I bought after a class many years ago. So pretty. (WIP)</li>
<li>Antique French Ribbons - since well there are flowers on some of the ribbons!(WIP)</li>
<li>My new Christmas Stocking will fit nicely in this catagory. </li>
<li>Apparently I wasn't around for the vote but I'm also going to start <a href="http://www.shakespearespeddler.com/" target="_blank">Ann Dale</a> with my sampler guild friends. (Some friends huh? They wait until I've left to decide we're all going to do the SAL for this sampler!)</li>
<li><a href="http://home.comcast.net/%7Ethutmosis/chatelaine/chatgallery/chatgalleryMMV.html" target="_blank">Misty Morning Vineyard</a> certainly fits into this month and I keep saying I'm going to work on it and finish it before I die. (WIP)</li>
<li>Anniversaries of the Heart - because it's another huge project that I want to make progress on in 2012</li>
<li><a href="http://www.wyndhamneedleworks.com/Stitching_Parlor/the_daughters_of_longbourn.htm" target="_blank">Daughters of Longbourn Hall</a> - see AofH for a reason (WIP)</li>
<li>Mary Corey - since I couldn't resist starting it when I bought it and it just is calling to me! (WIP)</li>
</ul>Fangirl February (I'm listing the designers I'm going to choose from during the month)<br />
<ul><li> Rae Iverson (Moss Creek Designs - who's website is being redone so no link right now)</li>
<li>Ellen Chester (<a href="http://www.withmyneedle.com/" target="_blank">With My Needle</a>)</li>
<li><a href="http://plumstreetsamplers.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Plum Street Samplers</a></li>
<li>Patrick Woods</li>
<li>Tony Minieri - cuz I need to make some progress on that class </li>
</ul>I'm sure as I look through my stash I'll find some other pretties I could work on. I need to look at ornament kits and see if any fit the bill as well. Let's be reasonable, it's also possible that I'll start picking up something just because it hits my fancy. But looking at the list I've got more WIPs than new starts and even a few UFOs. If I could just finish one or two that would be fantastic. In January I have a nice 3 day weekend planned with my DF Jackie. We went to this same retreat last year. I took way too much to work on. I'm going to try and pare down this year and see what happens...oh who am I kidding, I'll take way too much to do and talk way too much, but at least I'll have a good time! <br />
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Any others making plans for next year? <br />
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PS - I just looked through this list and thought, "You know....I may just ditch that entire list and do something completely different. It's all going to depend on what I feel like come January."TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-27177564952352302572011-11-29T19:36:00.017-05:002011-11-29T19:36:00.797-05:00Another Great Weekend in AtlantaSo, in case you missed it, I started the month off heading to Mesa, AZ with DF Heather for a weekend of stitching. Ok, let's be real, it was a partial day of stitching and lots of stash enhancement opportunities. Then I came home, worked to pay for that trip, and then proceeded to head off to Atlanta for 6 or so days of fun, stitching and more stash enhancement with my peeps up there after only being home for barely 10 days.<br />
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I worked from Jean's on Thursday but we managed to make a trip to <a href="http://eatsleepknit.com/">Eat.Sleep.Knit</a>'s store. Now I've done some damage on their website. But as scary as the website is the store/warehouse is even more so. The proof is in the picture.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CaB6ci1Wqww/TtRjhWSSt9I/AAAAAAAABjc/tKzpQNy2xoE/s1600/DSC_0040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CaB6ci1Wqww/TtRjhWSSt9I/AAAAAAAABjc/tKzpQNy2xoE/s320/DSC_0040.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>That's just my haul. DF Jean managed to have a pile just as nice. In all that is a full sweater and who knows what else.<br />
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Now, I was there to take a class at <a href="http://www.institchesatlanta.com/">In Stitches</a> with Tony Minieri Friday through Monday. But that didn't stop us from heading over to <a href="http://www.atlantanimbleneedle.com/">The Nimble Needle </a>and checking out what they had. I like to make sure I support small business as many of you well know, so of course I couldn't leave empty handed.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dSaKZHC8fGs/TtRlRXj37zI/AAAAAAAABjk/-B1aTcVrlew/s1600/DSC_0066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dSaKZHC8fGs/TtRlRXj37zI/AAAAAAAABjk/-B1aTcVrlew/s320/DSC_0066.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> A little something for mom's blue & gold tree....eventually.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IHHiHqW9Wvk/TtRlTR5pKhI/AAAAAAAABjs/tbvcq0ZZb7A/s1600/DSC_0067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IHHiHqW9Wvk/TtRlTR5pKhI/AAAAAAAABjs/tbvcq0ZZb7A/s320/DSC_0067.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Something for my stitched tree...eventually. </div><div style="text-align: center;">And of course I changed the colors!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fdwCEFJOH8c/TtRlWLSdlnI/AAAAAAAABj0/hay7QmiA0Pk/s1600/DSC_0068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fdwCEFJOH8c/TtRlWLSdlnI/AAAAAAAABj0/hay7QmiA0Pk/s320/DSC_0068.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">(Quick Jean...don't look!) I had to have the Halloween shoe.<br />
And really, didn't your mom tell you about kissing lots of frogs? </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Then Friday we packed ourselves up and headed to <a href="http://www.institchesatlanta.com/">In Stitches</a>. Heather met us and she and I managed to get started on our project with Tony. About 2 hours in Heather leans over and says to me in a very low whisper, "I couldn't figure out what we'd be doing for 4 days!" That was way funnier than it sounds, believe me. By the end of the day my canvas looked like this...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H4Z7qzj4yeQ/TtRmvqEXqAI/AAAAAAAABj8/3jZAce52THQ/s1600/DSC_0041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H4Z7qzj4yeQ/TtRmvqEXqAI/AAAAAAAABj8/3jZAce52THQ/s320/DSC_0041.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>No really, that's a day's worth of class. And that was a LOT of work. Tony kept the class moving and I kept up. By Monday, that's day 4 for those of you trying to keep track, I was a little punch drunk but still going strong. I think it helped that Jean & I decided back a few months ago that it would be fun to really try and relax some that weekend and to get a hotel room in Buckhead near the shop for Saturday and Sunday night. It helped some not having to get up quite as early as if we'd stayed up at her house.<br />
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We really treated ourselves, well and I found a good deal, and we stayed at the <a href="http://grandatlanta.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/index.jsp?null">Grand Hyatt</a>, which used to be Hotel Nikko. The Japanese garden is still there, but I didn't get out during a morning to get pictures. If you're staying in the area I highly recommend this hotel. The staff was wonderful and the whole place was beautiful. Unfortunately Jean started feeling sick Saturday and by Sunday she was slightly miserable...maybe really miserable. So she went home and I hung out Sunday evening with DF Heather watching the final NASCAR race and rooting for Tony Stewart to win. I even had Heather rooting for him, although if she'd seen Carl without his helmet before the race started she might have been yelling a different tune at the TV. Heather went home after the race and some dinner next door at <a href="http://bricktops.com/">Brick Tops</a> and then met me Monday morning for breakfast at <a href="http://www.flyingbiscuit.com/">The Flying Biscuit cafe</a>. Then we grabbed a ride from the hotel's shuttle for our final day of class. By the end of the day this is what my canvas looked like...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xlYaibJBjBk/TtRop140RJI/AAAAAAAABkE/ENBUBTctAVU/s1600/DSC_0065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xlYaibJBjBk/TtRop140RJI/AAAAAAAABkE/ENBUBTctAVU/s320/DSC_0065.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>For those familiar with this pattern you might notice that the colors I have are a bit different than any of the pictures you can find online. That's because I went with the "fuchsia" colorway, which is really more a jewel tone take on the original. Love the colors and I'm planning on working on this next year. It's an amazing piece with lots of great stitches. Learned lots of great techniques as well during the 4 days.<br />
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Now most of you are wondering what other trouble I managed to get myself in to while wandering around such a great needlepoint shop for 4 days. Wait no longer...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9ackUjcwPhw/TtRpmbYR1aI/AAAAAAAABkM/XF1emYVtRj8/s1600/DSC_0080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9ackUjcwPhw/TtRpmbYR1aI/AAAAAAAABkM/XF1emYVtRj8/s320/DSC_0080.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>I mean really? You expected me to by pass this? As Heather told her dear husband it was a triple threat. Lots of great blue/green colors, bunnies and they are in Medieval dress. I was a total goner. It really was sad. Plus Tony Minieri himself was there and kept giving me ideas for stitches and pulling colors from the vast supply in the shop. For four days we had it laying on a table in one of the rooms and would just pull fibers and play with what would look just perfect. I forgot to lay out some of the fibers I bought already to get a start on this, but let's just say I'll be working on this for a nice long time. Heck, I don't even have stretcher bars this will go on yet! Oh, and that brown dress is changing colors thanks to Mr. Minieri's suggestion. Now to finish the Mermaid so I won't feel too crazy about putting this in the rotation come 2012!<br />
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Of course all good things must come to an end. So it is with getting to hang out for 4 days stitching and looking at fibers and great canvases, spending time with old friends and making some wonderful new ones. Tuesday I had to get back to work and fly home, in that order.<br />
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Thanksgiving was a day spent with my parents, nice and quiet. Didn't even cook. I took them out to dinner so we'd have a relaxing day for a change. Didn't even make it to shop on Black Friday (oh please stop...I know what you're thinking...why would I need to shop after my two out of town crazy stash hauls...and you might be right.)<br />
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Now I'm on the countdown to Christmas. We'll be starting to decorate this week I'm sure. Takes time to put all those tree's up you know. Of course now it's dark at like 5 so it's time to have trees with lots of lights to brighten the darkness.TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-70200612643285418652011-11-28T23:33:00.000-05:002011-11-28T23:33:30.877-05:00If you want to know...Earlier this month I took a trip to Mesa, AZ with DF Heather and took the infamous Chocolat with Jackie du Pleissi. Much fun ensued. She introduced me to her friend Annette who is apparently my twin separated at birth! The three of us had a great time.<br />
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Now, if you want to see pictures and a really good recap of what I did you need to head over to <a href="http://lottloft.blogspot.com/2011/11/chocolat-weekend.html" target="_blank">Heather's blog and read the post</a>. My camera decided to hide on my and I didn't have it on the trip. Plus Heather does a much better job of letting you know all the fun we had (and the food we managed to find to eat).<br />
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I will show you my stash enhancement. I'm not sure what kind of fumes Jean pumps into the store to make you go all weak and have no will power to resist the patterns, fabric and threads, but apparently I'm hyper-sensitive to it. Here's what I couldn't resist...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LWZZ-evTlaI/TtRe7FPmOuI/AAAAAAAABi0/U7C4A8f3JwA/s1600/DSC_0061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LWZZ-evTlaI/TtRe7FPmOuI/AAAAAAAABi0/U7C4A8f3JwA/s320/DSC_0061.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Mary Corey with my own twist. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Changed all but the alphabet color, and working over 1 on 40 ct.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i43OtSbDZc8/TtRe9XoauTI/AAAAAAAABi8/jS_CQYZf5go/s1600/DSC_0063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i43OtSbDZc8/TtRe9XoauTI/AAAAAAAABi8/jS_CQYZf5go/s320/DSC_0063.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Some things off my wish list.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pw60Lr9dzE8/TtRe_eHzIoI/AAAAAAAABjE/TONb7duPIaM/s1600/DSC_0072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pw60Lr9dzE8/TtRe_eHzIoI/AAAAAAAABjE/TONb7duPIaM/s320/DSC_0072.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Changed the fabric but that's all. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">And then Heather surprised me with the great project bag</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dMYDeVjFB-E/TtRft5SpqhI/AAAAAAAABjM/tIGIcuPM5OY/s1600/DSC_0069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dMYDeVjFB-E/TtRft5SpqhI/AAAAAAAABjM/tIGIcuPM5OY/s320/DSC_0069.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Obviously it's perfect because it has bunnies! But that's not all. Inside was....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qVm3kiUB92I/TtRfwLuXuEI/AAAAAAAABjU/Q9xsPhD7Elg/s1600/DSC_0070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qVm3kiUB92I/TtRfwLuXuEI/AAAAAAAABjU/Q9xsPhD7Elg/s320/DSC_0070.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>That would be fabric for Spring Quakers. I had the pattern and the threads. Now I just need to get some things out of my rotation, or not.<br />
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So that was my weekend in Mesa. I'm proud that I managed to blog about it in the same month. Next up the weekend in Atlanta taking Tony Minieri's class, Antique French Ribbons. Not too many pictures from that, but there is more stash!TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-85994254824150774382011-11-11T15:15:00.001-05:002011-11-11T15:15:00.078-05:00Honoring Veterns Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2lF6sGS8EYU/Tr1ztqdfr6I/AAAAAAAABio/Fukv9usYblE/s1600/vintage+veterans+day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2lF6sGS8EYU/Tr1ztqdfr6I/AAAAAAAABio/Fukv9usYblE/s320/vintage+veterans+day.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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It's days like today that I hope we all stop and think about the sacrifices that many have made so that we can all enjoy many of the freedoms we enjoy. Many of you who have read my blog and know me know that my family has a long tradition of serving our country in the armed services, well mainly the Navy. My brother Doug is retired from the U.S. Navy, his son, another Doug, is currently active duty Navy. Both my mother and my father's fathers served in WW2 in the Navy. One was lucky enough to come home, the other did not.<br />
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My mom's family served on both sides during the "War between the States" and I've been told that we even had members who served during the Revolutionary War. If I'm not mistaken someone in our family has served during every war the U.S. has fought since the start of this nation.<br />
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So today we take a few minutes to pause and remember and honor the many, many brave men and women have served in our military to make sure that we can live in a country that, while it may have it's problems, is still one of the best experiments in government by and for the people this world has known. There are still some of those great men and women who served in WW2 around, and if you are honored enough to know one, or are related to one, I hope that today you will say thank you for their amazing service. Same goes for those who served in Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm and the current wars we are waging. And don't forget those who just put the uniform on and served even during the years when there wasn't an active "engagement" going on. Their willingness to stand guard is what has kept us free.<br />
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Thank you Veterans and may God bless you for you unselfish service to this country I call home.TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-52215581049494680772011-11-10T17:30:00.001-05:002011-11-10T17:30:01.410-05:00A Return of the ThemesSome of your know my DF Heather (or as many of us call her "The Magic That Is Heather") and her great <a href="http://lottloft.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blog</a>. Some of you may also know that she and I spent the last weekend together in AZ (hey H you need to blog for us 'cuz you have the pictures!) and while we were there we not only stitched, ate and bought more stash, we spent some time talking about fun things. Heather mentioned she was thinking of resurrecting monthly themes like we have done in the past. I LOVED the idea and mentioned it would be fun to have some alliterations. (Not sure why but it sounded like fun to me.) We laughed, we talked, we laughed some more at some wild ideas of words that start with "J", and "O" and well a few other letters.<br />
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In the end Heather came up with a great list and you should head on over to her "<a href="http://lottloft.blogspot.com/2011/11/theme-licious-2012.html" target="_blank">Theme-a-licious</a>" post from yesterday to read all about it...and sign up to join the fun.<br />
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And yes, I have already been planning what I could stitch for each of the themes. I love making lists. Plus the last time we did this I managed to get quite a few things finished and made some good progress on other items.<br />
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Camera should be here tomorrow. Until then I'm picture free.TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-87674976562656957392011-11-09T17:52:00.008-05:002011-11-09T17:52:00.315-05:00No Eye CandySo, here's the deal. I've lost my camera. I went looking for it before I went to Arizona for Chocolat. Couldnt' find it. Figured I'd come home and "bam" there it would be right in front of me. Well, no "bam" no nothing. I'm at a complete loss. I've looked through all my bags, in my office, all over the house. NO CAMERA. I realize it's not that large so it could be hiding anywhere, but seriously? It's a nice Nikon point & shoot, about 2 years old. Takes fairly decent pictures. I really like it because it will fit in my purse and doesn't weigh a ton.<br />
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What's a girl to do?<br />
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Buy one of these is my answer.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zvm32t2aukA/TrriQZVVC0I/AAAAAAAABig/Yj0R1MxhwnI/s1600/NikonD3100.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zvm32t2aukA/TrriQZVVC0I/AAAAAAAABig/Yj0R1MxhwnI/s320/NikonD3100.png" width="320" /></a></div>Should be here by the weekend. Then maybe I'll have some pictures to share. And I'll probably find my sweet little camera as well.TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-89848150766183223802011-11-08T19:13:00.000-05:002011-11-08T19:13:00.138-05:00Stitcher's Bucket ListChris over at Tot Hill Farms blog posed the question what is on your stitching bucket list quite awhile ago. Let's face it, we all have one. It would be really easy to say, "Finish all the pieces I took a class for" or "Complete everything in my stash (really, who thinks that's something that's doable?? have you seen my stash??). So here's what I decided on this week.<br />
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1. Finish at least one of the HUGE Chatelaine pieces I have in my stash. The two top contenders are "Misty Morning Vineyard" and "Tuscan Town". I have the most done on MMV so it might actually get finished.<br />
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2. Complete all 5 of Rae Iverson's Gate series. I have 2 completed and on my wall. I'm SO close to having Winter Garden Gate complete. See...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lwY-X_za534/TrhVgBBX8NI/AAAAAAAABiY/-yoMXh9ZcD0/s1600/DSCN1830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lwY-X_za534/TrhVgBBX8NI/AAAAAAAABiY/-yoMXh9ZcD0/s320/DSCN1830.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For those not familiar with this one I'm missing the mirror image of the assisi stag and some initials. (and a date to show when I actually finished it. Then I only have 2 more to do. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3. "The Wind Blows" from The Scarlet Letter. I'm not sure exactly why I love this piece, but I do. I have to stitch it some day. I have the pattern, just need to college the rest of the goodies for it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4. I want a "Noah" wall. I have several charts that are Noah, all that I love. I want to do them so I can have a whole wall of them with a picture of my maternal grandfather on that wall as well. (Yeah, his name was Noah and he was in the Navy, died in WWII, and finally I was born on his birthday.) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5. Along those lines I've started an "alphabet wall", a "Quaker wall" and want an "A&E" wall. I have at least 1 of each so I've got a start, but I want more....MORE I say! Here's my current list for each wall:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Alphabet Wall</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><ul><li>Stitchers Row (finished)</li>
<li>small prim hornbook (finished)</li>
<li>La-D-Da bunny (finished)</li>
<li>Illuminated Letters Sampler (Samplar Workes)</li>
<li>Poppy Maye Russell (Heartstring Samplery)</li>
</ul><div>Quaker Wall</div><div><ul><li>An Emblem of Love (finished)</li>
<li>Spring Quaker </li>
<li>Mary Peacock</li>
</ul><div>Noah Wall</div></div><div><ul><li>The Flood</li>
<li>A Weeping and a Blessing (Barrick Samplers)</li>
<li>Noah's Stocking (Carriage House - but not as a stocking)</li>
</ul><div>A&E Wall</div><div><ul><li>HallowEden (finished)</li>
<li>Mary Corey (The Linen Sampler)</li>
<li>and here's where I get stuck I need some more in my stash. I welcome ideas from those of you who read this blog. (Hey Siobhan which other ones should I add? You've stitched so many great ones I trust your judgement.)</li>
</ul></div><div>6. Visit the V&A and really spend some time looking at their collection. Maybe even come away with some ideas for a design of my own.</div></div><div><br />
</div><div>I'm sure there are other things on my list, although right now these are the ones that come to mind. If you look, that's a lot of stitching. Who knows if I'll manage to finish any or all of these, but it's a nice little list. Maybe I'll take a look at it once a year and see if it changes.</div>TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-29777208151755634532011-11-07T18:05:00.001-05:002011-11-07T18:05:00.916-05:00Weekend FunI have to admit that I have been a bad, BAD blogger. I had this written right after my weekend in August (gasp, that was like 2 1/2 months ago!) and it sat in my blogger folder as a draft since then. Why you ask? Because I kept meaning to take one single picture which I never did. So, I'm just going to post this 2 1/2 months late and beg your forgiveness. At least it has some good eye candy in it. I'm going to try and do better. I have some things to share from both my stitching and my knitting. So look for them. Thanks to those who have stuck around even when I have been quiet. And now what I did the weekend of August 19th.<br />
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I promised a report on last weekend's festivities and I don't like to disappoint. It took awhile to get around to blogging it, but hopefully it will be worth the wait.<br />
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Friday morning DF Jackie picked me up and after loading up her car with my "essentials" we headed to have a quick breakfast before going to Camp Blanding for the weekend. We were lucky enough to meet up with some friends of mine and stake out a nice spot of tables in the middle of the larger of the 2 rooms. Everyone got all set up and as they started sewing, I started stitching. Now, before you get all excited that I accomplished everything I set out to do, let me just warn you that I always set goals and rarely make them happen.<br />
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On Friday I worked on a couple of things. One was the Hemstitch Pillow, which was a class I took YEARS ago, like in 1998 or something crazy like that. It's a neat piece and apparently will take me a lifetime to finish since when I pulled it out of my bag it looked like this...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fqBaUhwkI2Y/TlgDT3PxcQI/AAAAAAAABh0/EiTDsna44rc/s1600/DSCN1827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fqBaUhwkI2Y/TlgDT3PxcQI/AAAAAAAABh0/EiTDsna44rc/s320/DSCN1827.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I managed to finish that 2nd row. So now the after...(ok, so there's no after picture. Which is what held up this post for months....MONTHS.)<br />
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I also worked on Daughters of Longbourn. I love this piece and hardly ever work on it. So I decided it was worth working on Friday. Here's what it looked like before:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xap-WRpXMTQ/TlgCEruvxTI/AAAAAAAABhs/q77guG-q0dQ/s1600/DSCN1590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xap-WRpXMTQ/TlgCEruvxTI/AAAAAAAABhs/q77guG-q0dQ/s320/DSCN1590.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Actually I had a little more than this done, but not much. And here's what it looked like when I put it away after a stitching and talking and looking at other people's pretty quilts and eating and talking, did I mention there was some talking?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ViWQajpAfu8/TlgCHrb1IHI/AAAAAAAABhw/0faUZi2CkrM/s1600/DSCN1842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ViWQajpAfu8/TlgCHrb1IHI/AAAAAAAABhw/0faUZi2CkrM/s320/DSCN1842.JPG" width="246" /></a></div>For me that's a lot of work!<br />
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Then Saturday morning was a little hard. I had to go to a funeral so I didn't have a lot of time that morning and came back after lunch. There was also the presentation of the Quilts of Valor to Camp Blanding. That's always something to see. I did make a good start on my Chocolat for the class in November. It always takes me awhile to figure out how to get my piece sewn onto the stretcher bars! But you can see, it's going to be fantastic!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGh-5HQLxN0/TlgDX14BMII/AAAAAAAABh8/ZGuoJtVd67Q/s1600/DSCN1839.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGh-5HQLxN0/TlgDX14BMII/AAAAAAAABh8/ZGuoJtVd67Q/s320/DSCN1839.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> This thread is fantastic and really I think I have plenty of time to get it done...no really.<br />
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I also managed to put in some time on Margaret W. Brown. This piece is just so sweet and if I haven't mentioned it before I just love the more muted colors that Jean at The Attic did as a conversion. Plus all those silks are just wonderful to work with. A little before....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u_utOQcDyKk/TlgDVykd1II/AAAAAAAABh4/Xy-gYr_hb-M/s1600/DSCN1833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u_utOQcDyKk/TlgDVykd1II/AAAAAAAABh4/Xy-gYr_hb-M/s320/DSCN1833.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
And what it looked like after....<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WiySjux28tc/TlgDbPf_LmI/AAAAAAAABiA/FVgZOlFCcXA/s1600/DSCN1844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WiySjux28tc/TlgDbPf_LmI/AAAAAAAABiA/FVgZOlFCcXA/s320/DSCN1844.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Jackie and I had discussed that we wanted to finish another project from our trip to Mesa in January. We decided that we could do an entire small little sampler that we got and put it in the cool frame we received during the weekend. Well, we did! Look, isn't it just too adorable?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c3ZkG8z0yKo/TlgFtKptvyI/AAAAAAAABiI/cUS4Q6wKWJI/s1600/DSCN1848.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c3ZkG8z0yKo/TlgFtKptvyI/AAAAAAAABiI/cUS4Q6wKWJI/s320/DSCN1848.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>The pattern called for the colors to be black, scarlet and a gold, but I decided to use some threads from my stash and go a bit more red, white-ish and blue. I'm working on getting this fixed so it can hang on my "alphabet wall". I need to find one of those small sawtooth hooks to attach to the back.<br />
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I did manage to add some things to my stash. There is a "sale" room where anyone can bring things that they no longer want to others can procure those items. I managed to procure several charts, and even some that were fully kitted up with fabric and fibers. All at a great deal. I also managed to "encourage" the purchase of a Singer Featherweight machine. It needs a little TLC, but was still a good deal. I almost wish I'd bought it since it was a 1935 which just might be the year my mother was born, but that can't be right so it's a good thing Eva took it home with her.<br />
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I did purchase a little bunny that's just too adorable and complete handmade by the very talented Heather Lynn. His name is Dusty and if you hurry over <a href="http://www.oldegreencupboard.com/mohair_bears.html">to here</a> and scroll down you can see much better pictures than the one I took below of where Dusty is living for now. Although I think he likes being the bunny protector of my growing collection of "primitives".<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VJ2fj_KmfsA/TlgFnzflZuI/AAAAAAAABiE/7sYtjc2_VeE/s1600/DSCN1851.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VJ2fj_KmfsA/TlgFnzflZuI/AAAAAAAABiE/7sYtjc2_VeE/s320/DSCN1851.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
That's all I have to share for now. It was a great weekend. I had a load of fun and can't wait for the next one in January.TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-26986803654488395832011-08-20T10:19:00.000-04:002011-08-20T10:19:01.072-04:00<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6218331-the-wild-sight" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="The Wild Sight" border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51XsioVyqcL._SX106_.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6218331-the-wild-sight">The Wild Sight</a> by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1410339.Loucinda_McGary">Loucinda McGary</a><br />
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My rating: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/155660824">3 of 5 stars</a><br />
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First off the Kindle edition has some problems with formatting. I tried not to let the bother me, but I have to admit that I think this would have been a much more enjoyable read if it hadn't been an issue.<br />
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Otherwise, this was a good solid mystery/romance with some paranormal elements thrown in for good measure. I liked the mystery more than the romance, I felt that the author could have developed it a bit more than just pawning it off as "instant lust/love" I mean that has it's place, but then I like things to develop a little more than it did. The rest was good. The mystery/suspense part was well written with a few twists that kept me guessing what would happen next. <br />
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Like a lot of the books I read for pleasure this isn't a hard book, won't make you think too much, just enough to be pleasant and enjoyable. <br />
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So, since I've promised to blog more often I realized that this was sitting in my drafts and needed to be published so here it is. I'm sure Jackie and I are having a fantastic time and much stitching and knitting has been accomplished. Yeah, that's probably what's happening.....TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-14085732902791234442011-08-18T21:11:00.000-04:002011-08-18T21:11:54.842-04:00The rumors of my demise are falseI am alive, and doing relatively well. Life has been busy with work and life. I realize that's not a perfect reason not to blog, but it's the only one I have. A lot has happened in the last 3 months or so and since I don't have a ton of time right now I'm going to give you the very, VERY quick update and then hopefully find some time to do more in the next couple of weeks. So here are the highlights:<br />
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<ul><li>Got a contracting job back with the company I've been with the last 3 times. I really like working there and this is a nice challenge. So far I've enjoyed it and learned a lot. It's through the end of the year so we'll see what happens after that. </li>
<li>I've been to Atlanta 3 times and Charlotte once. The Atlanta trips were a mixture of business and also some pleasure during my birthday weekend. Charlotte was all about family. </li>
<li>I really haven't finished anything on the stitching front. I'm very close to having the Mermaid done. The picture below is the latest and taken with my iPhone so not the best, but you get the idea.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h03UY5ff9uo/Tk20Lo7bWrI/AAAAAAAABho/L3iTbx96ZPU/s1600/IMG_0271.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h03UY5ff9uo/Tk20Lo7bWrI/AAAAAAAABho/L3iTbx96ZPU/s320/IMG_0271.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><ul><li> In other stitching news, I took another class at the needlepoint shop in Atlanta for my birthday and started another large needlepoint canvas. I'll show pictures later.</li>
<li>In non-needlepoint stitching news...well all I can say is I've been stitching. I can't really tell you what all I've worked on and if I've even accomplished anything. I can say that I've made great strides in obtaining stash. GREAT STRIDES. I'll have to do an entire post on that, so for pics and info you'll just have to wait. Needless to say I've been trying to stimulate the stitching economy practically on my own.</li>
<li> I have no knitting news to report. I've been in the knitting doldrums. It's been so gastly hot that I couldn't even think of picking it up. I do have a few things on the needles and a pair of socks I really want to start so we'll see what happens.</li>
<li>Health wise, things are pretty good. Some days better than others. The RA seems to be in control, just have days where I have almost no energy, but those aren't too often. I did have to go to the dermatologist the other day. I had him remove a mole from behind one of my ears and he also took a spot on my leg. Neither are suspected of being cancerous, both were just annoying. The one behind my ear sometimes was being irritated by some earrings and the one on my leg was being caught by my razor so my very nice doctor said they were both going away. </li>
<li>Upcoming events include a very busy fall. Our EGA chapter is having an open house event the 2nd Saturday in October with a program about Bargello work. Then two weeks later they and our Sampler Guild are hosting a wonderful teacher, Ellen Chester, for a day long class which is completely full! Then the next weekend, (first of November) I'm meeting my DF Heather in the Atlanta airport and we're headed to Mesa, AZ for the weekend and a great class from Jackie de Plessie called Chocolat. THEN 2 weeks later I'll be back in Atlanta for a 4 day class with Tony Minieri called Antique French Ribbons. And at some point I'm trying to find a weekend to meet DF Jill in Tallahassee for a weekend of FSU football. That's enough to make you tired right there! Plus there's work to pay for all the fun. More on all of this later</li>
<li>This weekend DJ Jackie and I are headed far, far away (ok, it's really only a couple of miles away from my house) to Camp Blanding for a retreat. It is mainly quilters, but I'm taking all my stitching and even some knitting to work on. My goal is to touch each of my current projects for my 2011 challenge. I've taken before pictures and I'll take some afters. We'll see if I make any progress. I'm also taking my bag of ornaments that are stitched and need to be finished. Maybe, just maybe I'll manage to finish one or 2 of those. We'll see. </li>
</ul>Ok, that's way more than I intended to write. I hope there are still some people out there who check in with me occasionally to see if I'm still around. If so, thanks for sticking with me and I'll try to do better! Until some time next week....good stitches all around! TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-8203466755813762842011-05-02T20:04:00.000-04:002011-05-02T20:04:27.232-04:00Books and a Contest<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/321545.A_Morbid_Taste_for_Bones" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="A Morbid Taste for Bones (Chronicles of Brother Cadfael, #1)" border="0" src="http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1296427936m/321545.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/321545.A_Morbid_Taste_for_Bones">A Morbid Taste for Bones</a> by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4046.Ellis_Peters">Ellis Peters</a><br />
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My rating: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/104918371">4 of 5 stars</a><br />
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I'd heard about this series for years and finally decided to look for a copy of the first in the series. Thankfully I found one at a local used book store and I'll be looking for the rest. Brother Cadfael is a wonderfully written character, not to mention the story is good. The good brothers of Shrewsbury Abbey are off to obtain the bones of St. Winifred from her resting spot in Wales and the adventure is on. Brother Cadfael came late to the monastic life, but the lessons learned prior come in handy to help solve the mystery of who shot Rhisiart, the prominent landowner and vocal opponent to the moving of St. Winifred's bones. A short book, but a great read. I can't wait to hunt down the rest in the series. <br />
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And now for the contest. The ever wonderful Edgar is celebrating his 4th Blogiversary with a give away. Even if you don't want to enter you should take yourself over to his blog (<a href="http://blacksheepsite.blogspot.com/2011/04/four-years-and-counting-blogoversary-is.html">Blacksheep's bit of the web</a>) and view the beautiful stitching. I also look forward to his estate sale finds and info on great movies, oh and the occasional baked treat is always nice too! <br />
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I'm sorry I haven't posted pictures of any stitching lately. This week was the first at my new contract job and it's been busy from the beginning. Nothing like diving in and going straight to work. That also means by the time I'm done in the evenings I really haven't felt like doing much of anything. I have managed to knit on the surprise gift I'm making but that's about all. Tomorrow is Sampler Guild so I promise I'll stitch and make some pictures! <br />
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Tonight some friends are throwing a dinner party for my parents to celebrate their anniversary. Even though it was almost 2 months ago, they decided to have a get together and celebrate now that my mom is feeling a bit more herself. They are all close to my parents and I'm sure we'll have a wonderful time together tonight, as we usually do. I might have some pictures from that as well.<br />
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Hope you all have a wonderful evening and enjoy some fiber goodness!<br />
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I thought this would publish Friday night, and it didn't, so I'm going to let you in on another contest. Deborah over on <a href="http://cranberrysamplings.blogspot.com/2011/04/finally-my-giveaway.html">Cranberry Samplings</a> is having a give away. So click the link and see if you want to put your name in the hat.TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-77459875302511190022011-04-22T22:33:00.000-04:002011-04-22T22:33:12.658-04:00Books, Books, Books!Obviously I needed to catch up on my book reviews since I've been away from the computer for a week. No really great reason why except that I took a break while I waited to receive the computer I'll be using for my new contract job and can get back to earning some real money. I've even been lax about reading blogs this week, but I'll be catching up this weekend and hopefully will be back to normal after Easter. For now, enjoy some reviews of books I've read lately. It's a bit of a hodge-podge, but then my taste in reading materials is pretty eclectic. <br />
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<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8104949-the-ship-in-the-hill" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="The Ship in the Hill" border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51z7jjaK2cL._SX106_.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8104949-the-ship-in-the-hill">The Ship in the Hill</a> by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/251186.William_L_Sullivan">William L. Sullivan</a><br />
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My rating: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/158523162">3 of 5 stars</a><br />
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<i>(Disclaimer: Won through Goodreads "First Reads", signed copy from author.</i><br />
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Another book I'd like to give 3.5 stars to if I could. I loved how this book blended the excavation of an actual Viking ship and the lives that the women found in the ship might have led in the 800's. Weaving some of what really happened, myth, legend and good old fashioned imagination the author brings to life the story of Asa of Agthir and the fictional Dr. Kirstin Williams. I think the author did a great job of taking the Viking legends and sagas handed down through time and used them as a starting point to flesh out the characters from the 7th century in the novel. <br />
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What I didn't like about the novel was how the people in the 20th century were "linked" to the people in the 7th century. I realize it helped to move the underlying plot, but seemed a bit contrived at times. But it didn't bother me too much, since it's a technique I've seen used by many a romance author who write stories that involve "time travel" (even though this book didn't).<br />
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All in all I enjoyed this book, it was interesting and well written enough to keep me reading well into the night. Plus I feel like I learned something about a part of the world that I didn't know that much about and it made me curious about Viking lore and history. <br />
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<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6209790-the-no-1-ladies-detective-agency" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency" border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Kw-98Az3L._SX106_.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6209790-the-no-1-ladies-detective-agency">The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency</a> by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4738.Alexander_McCall_Smith">Alexander McCall Smith</a><br />
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My rating: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/92458710">3 of 5 stars</a><br />
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The first in a series of mystery novels set in Africa finds Precious Ramotswe setting up shop as a "Lady Detective" after her father's death, definately not something anyone thought she would do with her inheritance. Along the way we learn about Mma Ramotswe's life before becoming the first lady detective in Gaborone. The main mystery surrounds the disappearance of a young boy from a small town in the region, but throughout the book "smaller" mysteries, which really aren't mysteries in the traditional sense of the word, are revealed. Through it all Mma Ramotswe's down to earth intelligence and good sense shine as she helps those who come to her for assistance.<br />
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I'd really give this one 3.5 stars if I could. It's a fairly easy read, not too taxing on the brain. I liked that the author stayed true to the setting, giving me as a reading more insight to the area and the people. I'd like to read more of these and will probably try to get them from the library. <br />
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<i>Disclaimer: I'm pretty sure I got this one free from Amazon on my Kindle. Too lazy to check and see.</i><br />
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<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6590378-enchanting-the-lady" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="Enchanting the Lady" border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/512-86bjh5L._SX106_.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6590378-enchanting-the-lady">Enchanting the Lady</a> by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/108905.Kathryne_Kennedy">Kathryne Kennedy</a><br />
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My rating: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/124738336">3 of 5 stars</a><br />
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Some romance, some fantasy, some magic, some Victorian England and a hot man who's a shape-shifter...what's not to like? I have to admit that I thought this was more a YA book until I hit the first hint of sex and realized it was meant for adults. <br />
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This wasn't a challenging read, I had most of it figured out pretty quickly, but it was interesting and fun, and just what a friend likes to call "good brain candy". <br />
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I liked Felicity, the main female character. She has spunk, even though it seems she's almost invisible to everyone until she meets Terrence Blackwell, a shape-shifting baronet who is also a spy for the royal family. Terrance can't seem to forget the beautiful woman he can see through the spell cast by relic-magic, the type of magic that killed his brother. Terrence is a were-lion and his character reflects his animal nature, which made sense and made the story even more interesting in my opinion.<br />
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The author does a great job of describing an alternate Victorian England that is filled with magical peers and were-animals, where even the buildings aren't what they seem. This is the first in a series that I downloaded from Amazon when it was offered as a free promotional and is no longer offered free. I liked it enough that I'll be downloading the other books in the series soon since this really gets a 3.5 in my book!<br />
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I started a new knitting project, but I can't show it off yet. It's a present for a friend that I'm fairly certain reads my blog. Also, I haven't taken any pictures. I do have some stitching updates that I need to blog about so be on the lookout for those. TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-78856615199042894822011-04-13T21:55:00.000-04:002011-04-13T21:55:33.307-04:00HallowEden Happy DanceCan't believe I've actually finished another piece but...well....I have! This was one I started with my DF Jackie when we were on our retreat in February. We'd purchased it while in Arizona at The Attic's retreat in January. I loved stitching this piece and can't wait to decide on a frame and get it on the wall.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--nELHt36Xlw/TaZSMsxgRPI/AAAAAAAABfY/3o63HlgnYbM/s1600/DSCN1767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--nELHt36Xlw/TaZSMsxgRPI/AAAAAAAABfY/3o63HlgnYbM/s400/DSCN1767.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HallowEden by Plum Street Samplers</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-deEGZyA1v4A/TaZRyFQYSxI/AAAAAAAABfQ/SRUGoEi25Pk/s1600/Apr+13%252C+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-deEGZyA1v4A/TaZRyFQYSxI/AAAAAAAABfQ/SRUGoEi25Pk/s640/Apr+13%252C+2011.jpg" width="492" /></a></div>I love how Adam has a leaf but it takes a pumpkin for Eve! It's stitched on 40 ct Purely Primitive Newcastle with the called for Crescent Colours floss. I did do some creative cutting with the Candy Corn used for the pumpkins so they didn't turn out too yellow. I also used Brandied Pears for my first and last initial in the alphabet.<br />
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That's all for today. I'm still waiting on all the paperwork to be completed so I can get started learning what's going on there. Until then I'm getting some things done here at the house although today was a bit of a loss since I had a migraine almost all day. Hopefully I've got it under control this evening and won't have any more problems with it this week. Thanks everyone for stopping by and leaving comments I love reading them! Have a great evening and Thursday.TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4899725128880749461.post-32514441348614732652011-04-12T18:03:00.000-04:002011-04-12T18:03:05.081-04:00Lots Going OnNo really, there has been. There was the Clay County Fair, two Jacksonville Symphony concerts, a quick visit from my aunt & uncle on their way to summer in Michigan, oh and I got an offer for a contract through the end of the year that sounded very interesting and I've been getting all the paperwork for that done. But ya'll just want to see pictures.<br />
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Let's start with how mom and dad's anniversary sampler turned out when framed.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r6QuDpg2Pdw/TaTBLPR8RFI/AAAAAAAABc8/80kXCfLwWc0/s1600/DSCN1763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="301" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r6QuDpg2Pdw/TaTBLPR8RFI/AAAAAAAABc8/80kXCfLwWc0/s400/DSCN1763.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An Emblem of Love by Ellen Chester of With My Needle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>It's so hard to get a really good picture of this since I ended up putting it under glass. The colors really don't show through in this picture as deep and beautiful as they really are. There was a small problem with the frame so it was ready until the Tuesday before our county fair started, which was the last day you could enter things in for showing. Mom, Dad and I went to the framers to pick it up and then take it directly to the fair grounds. Mom said she almost cried then, but didn't thinking if she did I would as well as the mother and daughter team that do our framing. It's now hanging on a wall in our house and they both really love it. Plus I did manage to keep it a secret, neither of them knew I was working on it.<br />
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Speaking of the fair, I took a few other things and did well in the ribbon department.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R53pzl252zw/TaTF7h8jo2I/AAAAAAAABdc/anvSh9SogpA/s1600/FairRibbons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="250" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R53pzl252zw/TaTF7h8jo2I/AAAAAAAABdc/anvSh9SogpA/s400/FairRibbons.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left: Entries and ribbons awarded, Right: in exhibit hall</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table>As you can see I took Traditional Elegance, Little Green Acorns, An Emblem of Love, Peacock Pinkeep Drum and Linen Sewing Book (entered as one item) and my Traveling Woman shawl. I'm pretty happy with the results.<br />
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Since I last posted I also finished La-D-Da's Briar Rabbit.<br />
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</div>I love how this turned out and can't wait to decide on a frame. I think I know what I want but not positive. It will end up on the same wall as A Stitcher's Row. I finished this in record time, mainly because that's all I stitched on. I started on March 28th and finished it on April 7th. Crazy right? And I had to stitch the majority of the bunny twice since I messed it up and couldn't figure out how to make it work without ripping and restitching.<br />
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I'm not sure why I'm on the kick to only stitch on one thing at a time but it's continuing with HallowEden. I'm really close to having it finished and picked it back up after I finished Briar Rabbit. Here's a peek as of this morning.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rlvK-K-aLvc/TaTIW3fSCmI/AAAAAAAABdo/MxeugJkcpGM/s1600/DSCN1765.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rlvK-K-aLvc/TaTIW3fSCmI/AAAAAAAABdo/MxeugJkcpGM/s400/DSCN1765.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>I hope to get this one finished at least by the end of this week. We'll see. Last week I was asked to return to ING as a contractor and jumped at the opportunity. It's with the same group I worked with last and I'll be doing something a bit different. I am hoping all the paperwork gets completed and my computer arrives soon so I can start working. Yep, I'll be mainly working from home again which is another reason I jumped at this job. I like working from home, I have a home office so it all works out really well. Plus have you seen the price of gas? It's 33 miles from my house to the office in Jacksonville and my truck gets like 15 mpg on that trip. Ugh! Not having to go into the office every day is really nice, not just because it saves me some money, but time as well, those 33 miles take almost an hour to drive. So I don't have almost 2 hours of drive time every day or the expense of the gas plus a job that sounds interesting with a group of people I like. Just a great blessing.<br />
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I'd like to also thank Lee for including me in her March Favorite Posts. What an honor and so unexpected. If you've never checked out her <a href="http://lakestitcher.blogspot.com/">blog</a> run right over there and enjoy. And be sure to see what other bog entries were her favorites last month, she always finds some great posts!<br />
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That's all for now, I'm headed to a meeting a church that I'm hoping won't last too long. Hope everyone has had a great week and has been getting some time with your fiber project of choice!TeresaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13938804049979107314noreply@blogger.com14