tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75249017195267456942024-02-18T21:59:52.396-05:00Yellow Flower MeadowStitching in my little corner of VirginiaSusanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.comBlogger431125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-80158993121022405612023-04-07T00:01:00.082-04:002023-04-07T00:01:00.186-04:00Easter Blog Hop 2023<p> Welcome to the Easter Blog Hop for 2023! This hop, and many others, is hosted by the wonderful Jo at <a href="https://serendipitousstitching.blogspot.com/">Serendipitious Stitching.</a> Hop on over there so you can so who is participating so you can collect all the letters. Take a look at Jo's stitching while you're there - she does beautiful work. Letters you ask? Oh yes, this isn't your average blog hop, it's a treasure hop. Go to each participating blog and collect the letters to figure out the phrase. All the details are on Jo's blog.</p><p>Don't rush off just yet - here's my entire Easter/spring decorating. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggv4psF4yscky3cRrYhOzoSSC1oCT9PE7QzCP-fFtWl4-JUqTenoPtsVNPZIkJ8CG_ev_EhlGwKdRM93pVI3w1-1oe61J0sIJ5nZzeVJtEFGW5MWWd6pEIBcjOWiiZWL9ma_7fxdbXyqXu2FGIVoaoTZMzLJ0ckSEO6yg51Xmhxw_InozuBKM9sfxNbQ/s4032/Easter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggv4psF4yscky3cRrYhOzoSSC1oCT9PE7QzCP-fFtWl4-JUqTenoPtsVNPZIkJ8CG_ev_EhlGwKdRM93pVI3w1-1oe61J0sIJ5nZzeVJtEFGW5MWWd6pEIBcjOWiiZWL9ma_7fxdbXyqXu2FGIVoaoTZMzLJ0ckSEO6yg51Xmhxw_InozuBKM9sfxNbQ/s320/Easter.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p>The display is is a real family affair as the cute little bunnies are from my mom, the framed piece was a gift from my sister (she made different inserts for each month) and I stitched and finished the carrot. The carrot is a Secret Needle Night project from <a href="https://thesilverneedle.com/">The Silver Needle</a> from many years ago - I used the project kit and the optional finishing kit. If you look carefully, you can see the April Showers frog on the bottom shelf (another Secret Needle Night project - finished as a flat fold)</p><p>NOW you can hop on over to your next stop: <a href="https://stitchinggrandmacathy.blogspot.com/" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="background-color: white; color: #196ad4; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; outline: none !important;" target="">https://stitchinggrandmacathy.blogspot.com/</a> .</p><p>Don't forget your letter and enjoy the rest of your hop:</p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh7rRIKf_sMvnzW3IT6DCE51ZQfyXEokL6ZFFK9E2P8fywqZDuVFUPB0xbZ2DJpsJM-4N3CFApgrrWxlZQCduxTxzJsvgvNkX_dmn2df6CJmEyR7vi8x9bKnl6SdfDsy3ZOOn3xTr6cowVBkP_BvhnWVTzrFIkK5vZtfcMmITtbRCCaoHzY4MLUMTZuzA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh7rRIKf_sMvnzW3IT6DCE51ZQfyXEokL6ZFFK9E2P8fywqZDuVFUPB0xbZ2DJpsJM-4N3CFApgrrWxlZQCduxTxzJsvgvNkX_dmn2df6CJmEyR7vi8x9bKnl6SdfDsy3ZOOn3xTr6cowVBkP_BvhnWVTzrFIkK5vZtfcMmITtbRCCaoHzY4MLUMTZuzA" width="200" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-57340049226915248292022-12-09T00:00:00.164-05:002022-12-09T00:00:00.183-05:00December 9th - 2022 Advent Calendar Blog Hop <p> It's December 9th! </p><p>Welcome to my very neglected blog and my entry for the 2022 Advent Calendar Blog Hop. The hop is hosted by Jo at Serendipitious Stitching. You can catch up on the previous days and follow along for the rest of the month <a href="https://serendipitousstitching.blogspot.com/2022/12/2022-advent-calendar-blog-hop.html" target="_blank">here</a>. While you're there, check out her stitching and finishes. Jo does beautiful work.</p><p>I have had a very slow stitching year and my blogging mojo has not returned but I'm making an attempt by participating in Jo's blog hops - one of them is going to spark the fire.</p><p>Fortunately for this entry, my entire stitching year was Christmas themed.</p><p>First up is a stocking for my great-niece Ellidae (Elli most days). </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQyscGwqM0jtVa4zI4dkvL1QHF9i81cV_4deJyAXyDFq6xP4CpKjSKDuaQYwCwmvasXcP-3RCzEEVY6_F-A_r7m0EITECeEye1Hvq83AGZSyMSI0gSE7AuAPpli270DhNHo6fQZLxGBSU7H0giDFYdsQq7QMhlsvyCDNNDi28ms6UDZ0-iQ-C5lhue6g/s4032/Elli%20Stocking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQyscGwqM0jtVa4zI4dkvL1QHF9i81cV_4deJyAXyDFq6xP4CpKjSKDuaQYwCwmvasXcP-3RCzEEVY6_F-A_r7m0EITECeEye1Hvq83AGZSyMSI0gSE7AuAPpli270DhNHo6fQZLxGBSU7H0giDFYdsQq7QMhlsvyCDNNDi28ms6UDZ0-iQ-C5lhue6g/s320/Elli%20Stocking.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></td></tr></tbody></table>This is Oh Deer! from Satsuma Street. It's done on 28-count black Jobelan with the called for DMCs. The pom-poms are Ruddie's Nose from Dames of the Needle. The only change I made was to flip the design so the toe faces right instead of left.</p><p>Next is my great-nephew Beckett's stocking:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDdlOXO5vfE-4g8tidVD3RlPcJFb2IsFKi6C7AhoGAJugebhWLbProofZDgRjVN7DHLK8Lqd65k3t_mIacnNZus3h6eK771Yha0tQBOiM-tdOVRRvh9o4rn2GoiJYj72YJXEa3O5oO2uqtXxrBWPjhf9w0E0O_I_Ig9eXE4WAVLwanG3Wjf71b0eN4Rg/s4032/69007795273__00F04CF7-0C31-4EC9-888E-06A61235633B.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDdlOXO5vfE-4g8tidVD3RlPcJFb2IsFKi6C7AhoGAJugebhWLbProofZDgRjVN7DHLK8Lqd65k3t_mIacnNZus3h6eK771Yha0tQBOiM-tdOVRRvh9o4rn2GoiJYj72YJXEa3O5oO2uqtXxrBWPjhf9w0E0O_I_Ig9eXE4WAVLwanG3Wjf71b0eN4Rg/s320/69007795273__00F04CF7-0C31-4EC9-888E-06A61235633B.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Penguin Joy from Stoney Creek. This is stitched on 28-count Clear Sky from Stoney Creek with the called for DMCs, Glissen Gloss and beads. I had some finishing issues with this one, but once it's filled with presents, I'm sure they won't be noticed.<div><br /></div><div>And probably my favorite - for my son:<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1yfXiEjhh17VxgFtEYEmoDFsq_mV-OYZvK0C00IwwypiddAsMUtE5q3f7DV95v2D5LP58tilpXEAZNyYb1JeL3LrrK5U_UBNzb8odUW4X3CcxADUCTUXhUmwWQNHh-Okx5D1z2UXtazP1WwTlAV7hi9kj7-x95YnuFN_ZinAXGiwcLWJDxZf1QrFmDQ/s4032/7%20Swans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1yfXiEjhh17VxgFtEYEmoDFsq_mV-OYZvK0C00IwwypiddAsMUtE5q3f7DV95v2D5LP58tilpXEAZNyYb1JeL3LrrK5U_UBNzb8odUW4X3CcxADUCTUXhUmwWQNHh-Okx5D1z2UXtazP1WwTlAV7hi9kj7-x95YnuFN_ZinAXGiwcLWJDxZf1QrFmDQ/s320/7%20Swans.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><p></p><p>Seven Swans to Rule Them All by ScreamingHeartDesign on Etsy. It's stitched on 28-count Snow on Blue evenweave from Fabric Flair using DMC Etoile. Mounting piece and cording is from Joann Fabric and the greenery is stuff I've had hanging around for years. Warning - if you are easily offended - just search the pattern title rather than going to the shop site.</p><p>Now on to the question of the year - "What's for afters?" I used to make a pecan pie, a pumpkin pie and an apple-cranberry pie (and sometimes a carrot cake with cream cheese-pecan frosting or a cheesecake) but those days are long gone. I'll get a single serve pecan pie and vanilla ice cream for The Hubs. For me? I'm not sure. I prefer cherry pie and they can be hard to find in my little corner of Virginia. </p><p>I hope you all have a Happy Christmas or your holiday of choice or just a great day. Don't forget to follow along at Jo's blog.</p></div>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-80807292594996022612022-04-15T00:30:00.002-04:002022-04-15T00:30:00.178-04:00Easter Treasure Hunt Blog Hop 2022<p> I'm a little too old to be scrambling around looking under bushes and up trees for eggs and candy, but I can take part in Serendipitous Stitching's Easter Treasure Hunt Blog Hop. It's hosted by Jo at <a href="https://serendipitousstitching.blogspot.com/">Serendipitous Stitching</a>. Jo's done all the hard work, you just have to hop around to participating blogs and collect all the letters to this year's mystery phrase. Once you've visited all the blogs, collected all the letters and decoded the phrase, hop over to Jo's blog and pop the answer in her Hop post comment box. </p><p>Here's my little bit of spring/Easter decorating to peruse: </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvmnPfXrX_IBHXxh687oHj4-iCVq-e5g80xJ1zjcm7RszJdwAYbimO4Yh9lxgOQ2Y-PlglFY60CwUs0BFa80UVcJwzOdSPKW3qR_HvGvCjjnqDhDKphE8psU0cE2uPL2I3wMOSDWEeu5WvbT2ahCHNXAhd3AC12ZRTKbnn3Y2lp9ws5V6Qki5KH3TsZg/s4032/Easter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvmnPfXrX_IBHXxh687oHj4-iCVq-e5g80xJ1zjcm7RszJdwAYbimO4Yh9lxgOQ2Y-PlglFY60CwUs0BFa80UVcJwzOdSPKW3qR_HvGvCjjnqDhDKphE8psU0cE2uPL2I3wMOSDWEeu5WvbT2ahCHNXAhd3AC12ZRTKbnn3Y2lp9ws5V6Qki5KH3TsZg/s320/Easter.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><p>The framed typography is a gift from my sister. She printed one for each month and gave them to me with the frame - great gift idea - yes? The little bunny is from my mom and the slightly damp frog is from <a href="https://thesilverneedle.com/">The Silver Needle's</a> <a href="https://www.thesilverneedle.com/secretneedlenight.html">Secret Needle Night</a> from several years ago. All Secret Needle Night projects are done on large count material so they stitch up fast and use fun threads. I purchased the optional finishing kits and they came with everything you needed to finish your piece just like the model (no glue, but the bows are already tied, you just have to fuss with them a bit). Not affiliated in any way, just enjoyed stitching them.</p><p>I'd love to show you some more recent stitching, but in truth, there hasn't been much of any done since the Valentine's blog hop. Maybe someday soon. But you didn't come here to see stitching anyway, did you? You're here for the letter! Mine is:</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh0zCJQ8G8lC3ene2jtzXSJ1YgFQdrLjm6YxZLLBZTcxZvD0_ZSNgdQbvswjjdhqNzynRelzHYlC4Hnv1Nt1I_Ojkuem1JsRlRDtijwSglPDD4nDwAf7SvpjOWul1X_8n3ezcZgs47yvV57mHwinEtEm7HxDiqM8PrLm9viaNKornSglxAJYvPEfx0Mhw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="900" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh0zCJQ8G8lC3ene2jtzXSJ1YgFQdrLjm6YxZLLBZTcxZvD0_ZSNgdQbvswjjdhqNzynRelzHYlC4Hnv1Nt1I_Ojkuem1JsRlRDtijwSglPDD4nDwAf7SvpjOWul1X_8n3ezcZgs47yvV57mHwinEtEm7HxDiqM8PrLm9viaNKornSglxAJYvPEfx0Mhw" width="240" /></a></div><br />Your next stop is <a href="https://stitchinggrandmacathy.blogspot.com/" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" style="background-color: white; color: #196ad4; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" target="_blank">https://stitchinggrandmacathy.blogspot.com</a>. Enjoy your visit there and the rest of your hop!!<p></p>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-76795330583598043822022-02-14T01:00:00.077-05:002022-02-14T01:00:00.159-05:00Secret Stitching Sweetheart Blog Hop<p> <i>*click* and *creak* can be heard as a door is pushed open... Me, looking around, "it's a bit dusty and musty in here, but nothing that a little activity won't cure" and begins dusting things off and airing out, so I'm presentable for:</i></p><p>The Secret Stitching Sweetheart Blog Hop hosted by Jo at <a href="https://serendipitousstitching.blogspot.com/">Serendipitous Stitching.</a> Hop on over to her blog to see the list of everyone that is participating and click around to see all the wonderful Valentine's Day themed stitching or just something that a stitcher would love.</p><p>My Valentine is this gorgeous crazy quilt heart:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhqM-DDeCyCF_xLbE07fXuw8Ayzlo93cX1Quo2PoI_YRpvKvBnfAo69oxEk1GVoUcSQJo0fNYo8rY4EH46LkSSIhZictysKIwpNvPrDMH133Dnduar1ka3wUtWaZZJT2r1rwHdJ3BUonuhU4MZSqrGydn9nZQ85rh5hZ5J33eZ_7HWqPFMbMzCX2I1Wzg=s4032" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhqM-DDeCyCF_xLbE07fXuw8Ayzlo93cX1Quo2PoI_YRpvKvBnfAo69oxEk1GVoUcSQJo0fNYo8rY4EH46LkSSIhZictysKIwpNvPrDMH133Dnduar1ka3wUtWaZZJT2r1rwHdJ3BUonuhU4MZSqrGydn9nZQ85rh5hZ5J33eZ_7HWqPFMbMzCX2I1Wzg=s320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p>I have always admired this style of needlework for its beauty, but oh my! the work that goes into the planning (see that fussy cut bit in the middle?), and all the embellishments - LOVE the spider and web and the pearls and the heart button and, and, and... So very beautiful.</p><p>I'm off to check out all the other participant's blogs. I hope to be back before the next blog hop... </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-40943032899470680172021-12-05T00:00:00.193-05:002021-12-05T00:00:00.157-05:00Day 5 of the 2021 Online Advent Calendar<p> Welcome to day 5 of the 2021 Online Advent Calendar and the second Sunday of Advent. If you were just cruising around looking for dusty, neglected blogs, the Online Advent Calendar is hosted by Jo at Serendipitous Stitching. For previous days' postings and more information you can go <a href="https://serendipitousstitching.blogspot.com/2021/12/2021-online-advent-calendar.html">here</a>.</p><p>I am very much a holiday/Christmas stitcher. I, before being possessed by a knitting demon, always had a holiday piece on the frame. I still have one on the frame, it's just not getting too much love right now (that's not strictly true, as it's a Christmas stocking, I'm now frantically stitching on it ;-)). Here are the last two Christmas pieces I finished:</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt9b-RimMpf5x5rj-FIkc5NTOVaMULoZGOpYscKTQ75K9op5KsXHZazMrgVzECkgyTIhshDzPPEHHAlUn7OQB89t96QZ-xllNWju5LXcTonFhB9kYbzgmB4MnP2daXv35OJglJli0_92Ug/s2048/stocking+front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt9b-RimMpf5x5rj-FIkc5NTOVaMULoZGOpYscKTQ75K9op5KsXHZazMrgVzECkgyTIhshDzPPEHHAlUn7OQB89t96QZ-xllNWju5LXcTonFhB9kYbzgmB4MnP2daXv35OJglJli0_92Ug/s320/stocking+front.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>The one on the left is <i>Vintage Baubles</i> by <a href="https://shannonchristine.com/">Shannon Christine Designs</a>. The one on the right is <i>Candy Nutcracker</i> by Barbara Baatz for <a href="https://www.koolerdesign.com/">Kooler Design Studio</a>. These were made for my great-niece Cassimera and my great-nephew Grady. I have one Christmas stocking on the frame for Cassie's new brother, Beckett and one for Grady's baby sister, Ellidae is in the wings. <p></p><p>Jo always provides us with a question or theme for discussion and this year's is to tell you about my tree.</p><p>While I love real trees, I have had various artifical ones for probably 30 years or so. I don't honestly remember why we switched over to an artificial one, but clean-up is easy and I'm not finding needles in April. Despite having an aritifical tree, I am not one that puts their tree up right after Thanksgiving (American). The tree goes up, typically, a couple of weeks before Christmas and stays up until Epiphany. And that statement may be why we have an artificial tree. As people pushed back the start of Christmas to Thanksgiving, the supply of real trees was greatly diminished by the time we went to get one. Rather then buy a real one that was not going to be at its best by the time we put it up and completely dried out by the time we took it down, we decided an artifical one would be best.</p><p>I'll start from the top down - we have an angel. It was The Hubs'. It's seen better days, but the season is also about memories and she has plenty. Our tree is now pre-lit but I am a Christmas light lover, so it was always the more the better. I don't have a color, or any, theme for the tree. I have glass and stitched and handmade and glitzy, tacky and whatever catches my eye at the time ornaments on it. I add a couple new ones each year. Ever since the dog walked past the tree and came away covered with it (gotta love static and fluffy dogs) we have not added tinsel. I'm not sure if tinsel is the same world-round, but for me, it's thin strips of shiny metal foil, usually silver and it looks like icicles on the tree. I do use a shiny beaded garland. And last, but definitely not least, I use the same tree skirt every year. My sister made it for me and I treasure it.</p><p>As for stories of the trees over the years, I could tell you about the foster kitten that scaled it, or the cat that picked all the ornaments off, or the dog that used the water reservoir as his drinking bowl but every year there is a story added to the tree. This year, even though I'm in Virginia and they're in Michigan and will probably never see my tree, we're adding Ellidae and Beckett to the tree's story.</p><p>Happy Christmas and Season's Greetings if you celebrate a holiday this time of year. I hope you have a wonderful day if you don't celebrate. I wish all of you peace in the coming year.</p>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-34392999343219611042021-08-20T11:29:00.003-04:002021-08-20T11:29:22.478-04:00Let's try this again<p> Ahhhh, another Friday off. The extra hour during my work day does sometimes seem unending (I work 8 9-hour days, one 8-hour day and have every other Friday off) but having a 3-day weekend every other week is so nice. Today, in my craft rotation, is a sewing day so once I get this all written and posted, I'll be sewing/making something with fabric (probably storage or project bags - either knitting or stitching).</p><p>I've missed a lot of check-ins but am only late for <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrFQTo_FHrzK01-dmUAHSMInD-PHyNRm6Gh2h0UnOd3duRIxY42d-3rcizJvkMmZBVYvtulItKbhjhyphenhyphenSH5rpvbxkio7yRCX6Nka2OqN_fjq25T5wk_2KB2iCC_PvMvvKhDaBucINApL3y1/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="193" data-original-width="200" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrFQTo_FHrzK01-dmUAHSMInD-PHyNRm6Gh2h0UnOd3duRIxY42d-3rcizJvkMmZBVYvtulItKbhjhyphenhyphenSH5rpvbxkio7yRCX6Nka2OqN_fjq25T5wk_2KB2iCC_PvMvvKhDaBucINApL3y1/w200-h193/image.png" width="200" /></a> this month. Gifted Gorgeousness is hosted by Jo at <a href="https://serendipitousstitching.blogspot.com/p/gifted-gorgeousness-2021-sign-up-page.html">Serendipitous Stitching</a>. This is a wonderful SAL that gives us a chance to thank people that have gifted us stitchy goodness, to show things we're making for someone else or whatever else we can make fit. It's a wonderful no pressure SAL that only requires you to post and link-up on the 15th of each month (or there abouts, Jo leaves the check-in open through the end of the month). This has been an easy SAL for me the last few years as just about everything I've stitched has been for someone else. The last month, I finished <i>Winter Hearts </i>by Shepherd's Bush:</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv3u7URK7T2r-yLr7luE8RIP52kdY_KG54zADGVutXC3opDz2d_apNq8Wc_HZfZV2U1W74_vzYW1Be3wHrdsVHIwgWvxri0tUiZagpJSNS42UIqe6xjmARffuCBgXReWPInpZy4VSURQE1/s2048/Winter+Hearts+-+done.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv3u7URK7T2r-yLr7luE8RIP52kdY_KG54zADGVutXC3opDz2d_apNq8Wc_HZfZV2U1W74_vzYW1Be3wHrdsVHIwgWvxri0tUiZagpJSNS42UIqe6xjmARffuCBgXReWPInpZy4VSURQE1/w200-h200/Winter+Hearts+-+done.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">and started <i>Baby Bug Ball </i>also by Shepherd's Bush:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUaUM90WF8PtWmfUsUrUIsCztHCq1nPZHkOcZ1v2Q3sSfKleWPEdUfWyJjYRlDztDgk3dzYp4w559edxAcAhbGjBnHczKMqEhyphenhyphenmWcJsba8xLNq4-e5Qveef0-T0MVms4EeezgIvd5B8BmU/s2048/Baby+bugs+ball.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUaUM90WF8PtWmfUsUrUIsCztHCq1nPZHkOcZ1v2Q3sSfKleWPEdUfWyJjYRlDztDgk3dzYp4w559edxAcAhbGjBnHczKMqEhyphenhyphenmWcJsba8xLNq4-e5Qveef0-T0MVms4EeezgIvd5B8BmU/s320/Baby+bugs+ball.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;">These are both gifts for the new littles. I need to finish the satin stitch border and add an alphabet and lots of do-dads on this. There are also some beads and small buttons. I'm optimistic that I'll have a finish this weekend. I think I'll use the alphabet - it's very quirky, but fun - and put the baby's name and birthdate under the satin stitch border and make this into a pillow. My other thought was to finish it as a drum and put the baby's name on the "back" - his name on one side of the seam and birthdate on the other, with some sort of decorative stitch over the seam. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've mentioned my new rotation the last couple of posts. In order to give myself time to get a few of the other WIPs I have finished and to just take some of the pressure off myself (in the past I've scrambled the last minute to get things done or finish things up and it's just not fun), I came up with a crafting rotation. Saturday, Sunday and Monday are stitching days, Tuesday is papercrafting, Wednesday is knitting, Thursday is crochet and Friday is sewing. These are general and I don't get too upset if I feel like doing something on the "wrong" day - as long as I'm seeing progress on things.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Monday, I cut and stamped and now have a stack of cards to put together. Tuesday, I finished Elli's hat:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFRlaZhe_mk0J6U1dOMDRgxLy8nXJKnL1uHTmqKSu7vq6FunEcraNH-cNAfgAFO0menxuJtzMalFyjDmfvoTcP9Gwz5-bcGCawfYujJoopdmtNANKwX87wAuh87IB4pIX18pv54IR5vEOv/s2048/Elli+Hat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFRlaZhe_mk0J6U1dOMDRgxLy8nXJKnL1uHTmqKSu7vq6FunEcraNH-cNAfgAFO0menxuJtzMalFyjDmfvoTcP9Gwz5-bcGCawfYujJoopdmtNANKwX87wAuh87IB4pIX18pv54IR5vEOv/s320/Elli+Hat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is the <i>Sockhead Hat</i> by Kelly McClure in Licorice by SplashofColorYarnsUS on Etsy. I had enough yarn left that I decided to give baby socks a try.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8xJ0I9m7EH7s648zuLeDBsLbWAooTCT1BjmrtSBCX9A-BdrcqhYbquBbMfenNzv07hzSVZRS6cJDvqT14V1stTo1xeYuyBjruKvbjNeGPizvsONBTv_gnbqTn_fmtMQjSXPNtUpPIiBhY/s2048/Elli+socks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8xJ0I9m7EH7s648zuLeDBsLbWAooTCT1BjmrtSBCX9A-BdrcqhYbquBbMfenNzv07hzSVZRS6cJDvqT14V1stTo1xeYuyBjruKvbjNeGPizvsONBTv_gnbqTn_fmtMQjSXPNtUpPIiBhY/s320/Elli+socks.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is the first pair of socks I've made using double pointed needles (and yes it is a bit like how wrestling a hedgehog would be). It's getting a bit easier as there's more fabric, but these are VERY fiddly. I think I started them three times. I'm using the <i>Cozy Little Toes</i> pattern by Judy Kaethler - it's a free download on Ravelry and making the 3 months size.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Last night I crocheted:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiavFIst1ySC_MYlc-drfhX2d0wCgztJUO_cUXgFPfdV8UXaELU6GgwSmWvwt6X7G2uK3LaiS3gMeTyocOENaf96IR13IhPt9FOTLNR1dOtZlM9IscuZgi0lcuGHJ5efhfdTd41S0wRxiGR/s2048/Loiselle+blanket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiavFIst1ySC_MYlc-drfhX2d0wCgztJUO_cUXgFPfdV8UXaELU6GgwSmWvwt6X7G2uK3LaiS3gMeTyocOENaf96IR13IhPt9FOTLNR1dOtZlM9IscuZgi0lcuGHJ5efhfdTd41S0wRxiGR/s320/Loiselle+blanket.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is the baby blanket for the new great-nephew. The pattern is <i>Tiny Basketweave Baby Blanket</i> in Bernat Baby Blanket Tiny "Pebble Path". The pattern was free on the Bernat website (I think). This is that wonderfully soft, chenille-style yarn but in a worsted weight. It's a really simple pattern and once past the first couple rows is only front- and back-post double crochet. I like this so much that I'm going to rip out what I have on The Hubs' blanket and restart it in this pattern. So easy but very dramatic.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As I mentioned, sewing today. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And before I forget <i>again</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQFgQ9pi7UyIKcVcLIjYYb8pp6ajJllbUpGyJphWRizFdbRWoLkTM45v3mMimC411yX_XAK-p5W-1vmYLSqF9hI1OcKEQtPNm8wVi1S5rr0Wyu987EZgPsMc5eLgu6ato0mqxaI3xq8UuL/s2048/sunflowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1918" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQFgQ9pi7UyIKcVcLIjYYb8pp6ajJllbUpGyJphWRizFdbRWoLkTM45v3mMimC411yX_XAK-p5W-1vmYLSqF9hI1OcKEQtPNm8wVi1S5rr0Wyu987EZgPsMc5eLgu6ato0mqxaI3xq8UuL/s320/sunflowers.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />This was our sunflower patch a few weeks ago. These are all volunteers and grew from seeds the birds scattered from the feeders. The flowers are all gone now and the seed heads have been stripped by the gold finches but it was very pretty while it lasted. <i>The house is actually grey - it's been so humid this summer that we're having an awful algae/mildew problem on the siding - definitely need to wash it this fall.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm off to sew. Hope you're all well and safe.</div>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-85312047686100287242021-08-07T12:13:00.002-04:002021-08-07T12:48:12.580-04:00My solution wasn't great...<p> In my last post, I said I wasn't sure if I would be posting my next scheduled day. I didn't and my solution was to just not post at all for two!! months. We are well into summer and zooming to autumn. We have trees starting to drop their leaves, but I think it's more stress from lack of water (although today should help a lot, it's been raining since early this morning) rather than seasonal change, but one can hope (I am not a lover of summer). </p><p>So, grab a cuppa and hang on, this one's going to be long...</p><p>I mentioned I was planning to go to Michigan the end of June for Cassie's birthday. I made it!! I had a wonderful time and it was so good to see everyone again. Here's the "card" I made for her and a picture of a one year old eating cake:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLWv91-0bo3jcGKZV_5oPtVTfwBaU6_AmSmFtW-27p7eKPhasmkneseK4qhduBgf_H7NSP2xZsXgllXYQw_2SWGVC6dQaokXInjkhzBcSSfGGdSBOnSBRrs8Kd6XTLmzWnkrZYKnRfoEdh/s1200/Cassie+birthday.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLWv91-0bo3jcGKZV_5oPtVTfwBaU6_AmSmFtW-27p7eKPhasmkneseK4qhduBgf_H7NSP2xZsXgllXYQw_2SWGVC6dQaokXInjkhzBcSSfGGdSBOnSBRrs8Kd6XTLmzWnkrZYKnRfoEdh/s320/Cassie+birthday.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">To save space, I made up collages, some things were cropped a bit but think you can see everything.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When I got home, I did a lot of sewing and knitting.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK5GHHleHHev1CFnI91STGPbU760ufAUIq8j1fNkDbC5izSgXiMMMSlhZ4p2EAQJ2z42pCmDxh0G7UG3mGlzQ-1-wwF7uCuGbjd837Ap4X4181BGM0k_OHKhFp5vu-Mf4iT0HiloKJuAgC/s1200/Bags.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK5GHHleHHev1CFnI91STGPbU760ufAUIq8j1fNkDbC5izSgXiMMMSlhZ4p2EAQJ2z42pCmDxh0G7UG3mGlzQ-1-wwF7uCuGbjd837Ap4X4181BGM0k_OHKhFp5vu-Mf4iT0HiloKJuAgC/s320/Bags.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I saw a YouTube video on these bags and decided to give it a try. I love them! The size is perfect for large gifts (I used the animal one for a baby shower (more on that later) gift), and storage (the other two have sweater quantities of yarn). I have fabric ready for a few more that I will use for general yarn storage. The nice thing about this bag is that it takes minimal supplies - 2 fat-quarters for the outside, some interfacing, a zipper and lining fabric.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I enjoyed sewing so much that I did some rearranging in the guest room and brought my sewing desk up from the basement, so my machine is now out all the time and my sewing things are all in one place again. When I decide to work on papercrafts, I just move my sewing machine to the floor and have the desk for my work surface - it's so much better than the dining room table.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The majority of my knitting was on the blanket for my niece's baby (my other niece texted that she was going to host a baby sprinkle the same weekend as the family reunion so I needed to get it finished).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here's the finished piece and a close up of the bubbles:</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEE2PQaAsyCAZp65mkN5i5NdEbkz1Qrdfq93rTLzIF74ntYRX6-DT-73v87yA3bQOk5H9sVCFIj1p3cF3ULH-6bbycVKB3gUxsDwEcAiYjX2e7lkPSKYhLavM-f3xWebYvhKIrKk2ni7Jx/s1200/Elli+Blanket.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEE2PQaAsyCAZp65mkN5i5NdEbkz1Qrdfq93rTLzIF74ntYRX6-DT-73v87yA3bQOk5H9sVCFIj1p3cF3ULH-6bbycVKB3gUxsDwEcAiYjX2e7lkPSKYhLavM-f3xWebYvhKIrKk2ni7Jx/s320/Elli+Blanket.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div>I needed a card and made this:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipmREiBvaseO0_mICF3I3B3dtWd7K3lliaoP9G7MsY3IhU7xK1BN6bdn6k_ULV4M1xwhiIKLCBTcLDfn6PZtqKv1Lcfrr37qdkULAI_YQSLtS1jaFcEMcNJK13Gn_VU-nllUjKLvUfDKmy/s1200/Elli+card.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipmREiBvaseO0_mICF3I3B3dtWd7K3lliaoP9G7MsY3IhU7xK1BN6bdn6k_ULV4M1xwhiIKLCBTcLDfn6PZtqKv1Lcfrr37qdkULAI_YQSLtS1jaFcEMcNJK13Gn_VU-nllUjKLvUfDKmy/s320/Elli+card.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>So July 23rd, I bundled the blanket into the animal bag and took the card and headed back to Michigan for the family (my dad's side) reunion, a baby sprinkle and to see everyone again. I had a wonderful time and it was so good to see the extended family again.</div><div><br /></div><div>The baby sprinkle was not a minute too soon as on July 31st, Miss Ellidae (Elli) Louise was born. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje-HdNS0gWEe6pQnzWDYkAuSPupy0vMPGhliTVu0uzSd7c5uWtypb2mPejW3vjjmceqahe89gqZf4JVenrl0V31PFOLTCyvubfhzonnTjcCrBKVr-6aupJgQwIg1EGjeb-6mXUYRGt880r/s991/Ellidae+Louise.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="991" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje-HdNS0gWEe6pQnzWDYkAuSPupy0vMPGhliTVu0uzSd7c5uWtypb2mPejW3vjjmceqahe89gqZf4JVenrl0V31PFOLTCyvubfhzonnTjcCrBKVr-6aupJgQwIg1EGjeb-6mXUYRGt880r/s320/Ellidae+Louise.PNG" width="242" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">She was 10 days early, but she seems pretty happy to be here:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRIfGFX5mA6n5q4QLVF6tjeO8D_j28H0Jb9twu1JdfDemNsoLdzJScKvecK1uzqNs0fFszN8QWNn5-fJ9z9tOvC2rrX0LYtwjirUYSNzmtnhrczMS4jTX_sNuQkLVB0bmlZi0LNbfwebK2/s974/Elli+big+smile.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="974" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRIfGFX5mA6n5q4QLVF6tjeO8D_j28H0Jb9twu1JdfDemNsoLdzJScKvecK1uzqNs0fFszN8QWNn5-fJ9z9tOvC2rrX0LYtwjirUYSNzmtnhrczMS4jTX_sNuQkLVB0bmlZi0LNbfwebK2/s320/Elli+big+smile.PNG" width="246" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">She's named after a maternal great-great-grandmother (her nonno's grandmother) and shares her oma's middle name (which is my dad's mother's name). Everyone is doing well and settling into being a family of four.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I am hoping to get to Michigan over Labor Day weekend to meet her.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">With the arrival of Elli, my focus changed to her birth piece. Here is the finished <i>Winter Hearts</i> by Shepherd's Bush</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQSwBK2mvmSEGe0e8r5C-ENZFVUGfgsKJAHYelHQGnai64Vn8XsCBCG-SiNCe5rgOfEYz1m0FjbBY0C5_lE-aHL5qrHih0UYsHZ_FQY4FR0OEQnr-3WOkY6Rtl0_btULRDwydVcC0Jx78/s2048/Winter+Hearts+-+done.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQSwBK2mvmSEGe0e8r5C-ENZFVUGfgsKJAHYelHQGnai64Vn8XsCBCG-SiNCe5rgOfEYz1m0FjbBY0C5_lE-aHL5qrHih0UYsHZ_FQY4FR0OEQnr-3WOkY6Rtl0_btULRDwydVcC0Jx78/s320/Winter+Hearts+-+done.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">and a close-up of the hearts:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkGP1Yv3LUqKKR-OCAYvs39m8eXHBvmj5O5Rx5txjv4uzcu2lb7YhjuYfUuzN37Yp8qceCG9LNFy-9FKiVc-FIvo5SZKyGApTeC-1kt-cNR55YBh5gphceQIvMWPg6p7Y_B_M0HeqvioQl/s2048/Winter+Hearts+-+close+up.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkGP1Yv3LUqKKR-OCAYvs39m8eXHBvmj5O5Rx5txjv4uzcu2lb7YhjuYfUuzN37Yp8qceCG9LNFy-9FKiVc-FIvo5SZKyGApTeC-1kt-cNR55YBh5gphceQIvMWPg6p7Y_B_M0HeqvioQl/s320/Winter+Hearts+-+close+up.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There is hardanger (lower left), pulled thread (upper right), and cut work (upper left) in the piece. It is stitched from the kit on white Belfast using Au ver a Soie and white #12 perle cotton. I'm going to finish as a wallhanging, but need to get a few more specifics from my niece before starting. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So after getting things finished up for Elli (well, except for the hat I'm knitting for her for Christmas), I started on things for the next baby (my nephew and his wife are expecting a boy the end of October). I started a blanket (crochet this time, I'm not sure I'll knit a blanket with a time limit again), but there's not enough for the pattern to appear, so will show it next time. I also started:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOdhg5SeyUxAw1mpx7sWMH5-KS3DRN_-1hZ9c6CykSOWLcQpEhEWUDAPQDIclywH5AyPijvz75GpX0KD1R1wc-w_dil3uTVU1Q7NjKhLn9STKbTxoh0O7xedHb0fW-vaP4kF-3YjC4skd4/s2048/Baby+bugs+ball.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOdhg5SeyUxAw1mpx7sWMH5-KS3DRN_-1hZ9c6CykSOWLcQpEhEWUDAPQDIclywH5AyPijvz75GpX0KD1R1wc-w_dil3uTVU1Q7NjKhLn9STKbTxoh0O7xedHb0fW-vaP4kF-3YjC4skd4/s320/Baby+bugs+ball.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is <i>Baby Bug Ball</i> by Shepherd's Bush. It's stitched on Light Sand Belfast with the silks and beads from the kit. I'm waiting for the fabric so I can get started on his Christmas stocking.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In the few minutes between sewing or working on baby things, I've been knitting.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7f5xeomFP0W2Igb09YLtBPVU1rUtgoeG5AR6LGB6icI8it0948G8fZ68lrdKlAWD4rj9WWO9DilfC1YboNbYj7unkGekIpXz3FRtzLv5hl-OcFoxqrdZAUhXDJIeOhVQFAyjeScxZzqE/s2048/Neutra+shawl.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7f5xeomFP0W2Igb09YLtBPVU1rUtgoeG5AR6LGB6icI8it0948G8fZ68lrdKlAWD4rj9WWO9DilfC1YboNbYj7unkGekIpXz3FRtzLv5hl-OcFoxqrdZAUhXDJIeOhVQFAyjeScxZzqE/s320/Neutra+shawl.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is the Neutra shawl by SweaterFreak. I started the make-along, but I'm rubbish at them so didn't keep up, so am just doing a bit when I can - this is all of part 1 and a bit of 2 (the slanted ribbing). This is not as dark as it's showing up here. It's also hard to tell, but the blues are a gradient set, I think they will show up better in later parts. While I do have to pay attention to what I'm doing, this one is only knits and purls. I'm very tempted to do another one with a light gray main color and a burgandy gradient.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">With all the different knitting projects I have started and planned, I have a small but growing needle collection. To keep them all separated, I made this:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZowAYVJv7AR23YA0x0XqsnefrjiYdfAc5mUka9tciJnmp_upKEpzLFRWXakWObd95TnIKQ-AARXiuut8jPLoUaCHBQrC8mv0r8Yzn_igGkS_uktsYfqkV4Lf18E0N_Q2XDxeosdB08jmZ/s2048/portfolio+outside.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZowAYVJv7AR23YA0x0XqsnefrjiYdfAc5mUka9tciJnmp_upKEpzLFRWXakWObd95TnIKQ-AARXiuut8jPLoUaCHBQrC8mv0r8Yzn_igGkS_uktsYfqkV4Lf18E0N_Q2XDxeosdB08jmZ/s320/portfolio+outside.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div><br /></div>This is the <i>Flip Pocket Portfolio</i> by <a href="https://payhip.com/comfortstitching">comfortstitching</a>. When you open it, there are six zippered pockets:<div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Csb778DHSGSe4ygFd-GSxJPihQNrKig7OM4-N8fgzYWSlSN6quwu19VKL1d6IzQEH6tn3tLVdZVJVDeuToMjF8rDxF_GrhgJT74iBay8Q_9mauH4u4AOYllUhxe4ePGhyKl_D2jotM_Z/s2048/portfolio+inside.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Csb778DHSGSe4ygFd-GSxJPihQNrKig7OM4-N8fgzYWSlSN6quwu19VKL1d6IzQEH6tn3tLVdZVJVDeuToMjF8rDxF_GrhgJT74iBay8Q_9mauH4u4AOYllUhxe4ePGhyKl_D2jotM_Z/s320/portfolio+inside.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2-6LYeZsDVHQOGoBF2jPs6EOk2zH7GlGsjqQD53s-lk55gQlwUVxhiQ7x2I9F1mfCYWCAhoPZNm2VHGQSet85jBNN1trJzfmx5wGals3fvyVf4cPcGvvAjZo8xp-yFfan_gczmaAuOiYn/s2048/portfolio+pocket.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2-6LYeZsDVHQOGoBF2jPs6EOk2zH7GlGsjqQD53s-lk55gQlwUVxhiQ7x2I9F1mfCYWCAhoPZNm2VHGQSet85jBNN1trJzfmx5wGals3fvyVf4cPcGvvAjZo8xp-yFfan_gczmaAuOiYn/s320/portfolio+pocket.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>I had some difficulty with the binding as the directions were very different from what I'm used to. I'd never stitched with vinyl before, so I'm sure that didn't help the process any. This wasn't a complicated sew but it did take good chunk of an afternoon and evening.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We were notified that we won't be called back to the office until at least October 1st, most of us are thinking it will be closer to the end of the year, and that my boss is pushing for either remote or maximum telework for her staff, so I finally felt comfortable enough to start a craft rotation. While I'll be crocheting and stitching to finish up baby things, I'm making time for other crafts. I don't know how long I'll keep it up but it's nice to be able to get some other things started and finished. That announcement also helped me realize that I don't have to save up all my housework for the weekend, so I've finally started spreading it out during the week so that my weekends are usually fairly chore free and truely relaxing.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hope everyone is well.</div></div>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-3810884683897020942021-06-11T16:33:00.004-04:002021-06-11T16:33:59.963-04:00Summer has started<p> We haven't officially started summer, but the last few days have certainly felt like it. It's been hot and humid and just not nice to be outside. It's also been raining - enough that most of central Virginia seems to be under flood or flash flood warnings. So glad I don't have to go anywhere this weekend.</p><p>No new species of birds at the feeders but there are new birds.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1qU9_HetgdMSXj6xtxWcmtANq_Tsf2DI0X44UVYrveBkNxzfXXMFs4gja9DJutdss03535KpfPswKZYN-VUfy29n-Z0yizo1TpEDsq5zgzxq7jOWZBki5X43aggWMetS8E1LgIRw-b0rF/s2048/baby+woodpecker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1780" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1qU9_HetgdMSXj6xtxWcmtANq_Tsf2DI0X44UVYrveBkNxzfXXMFs4gja9DJutdss03535KpfPswKZYN-VUfy29n-Z0yizo1TpEDsq5zgzxq7jOWZBki5X43aggWMetS8E1LgIRw-b0rF/s320/baby+woodpecker.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p>The one on the right is baby woodpecker (these are downy woodpeckers). I haven't been able to get a picture of the baby cardinals (there's one sitting in the bushes looking in the window keeping the cats attention) or house finches. Honestly there could be lots of babies out there but if they come in alone it's hard to tell. If they come in with a parent, they sit in the bushes or on the feeder and flap their wings and beg for food. We've also had a doe with twin fawns come through the yard. I don't like living so far away from things, but all the wildlife (I've seen a red fox, a grey fox and a coyote the last couple of weeks) is fun to watch.</p><p>Along with the heat and humidity and young animals a sure sign of summer is my stitching slump. I am having a hard time getting myself going with my stitching (but not knitting, all I want to do it seems is knit - which doesn't seem right with all the heat).</p><p>Despite the slump, I have been stitching almost every night the last couple of weeks - I try to put a length of any color in each evening. All I've worked on is <i>Winter Hearts</i>. It went from here:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdVMZEb694WbQbxwGlFiusroFmSf9-H62j61cDw4don8Lh1LBQWRVzFzvloAoPXWEDVHkxMeFXWtXOcjSG20uyAFUJRUWjHSl3qHdSOXnDSNKvR7waDNns57Omib2vbWxtsfILkJoKDohJ/s2048/Winter+Hearts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdVMZEb694WbQbxwGlFiusroFmSf9-H62j61cDw4don8Lh1LBQWRVzFzvloAoPXWEDVHkxMeFXWtXOcjSG20uyAFUJRUWjHSl3qHdSOXnDSNKvR7waDNns57Omib2vbWxtsfILkJoKDohJ/s320/Winter+Hearts.jpg" /></a></div><p>to here</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitHoMbFMXFfvjGHyRSPN45AJqZ9cpH5pGYw60IzQdDNzY4uvBm5ZRdEqWXoVjc1VNN3Y40OGK6X7oEi_laVVomDbXpLKqQYhWEPnI1KgQhUfvlaPngmEpg1RPUN9Da00kcIn3ecOVkJFkL/s2048/Winter+Hearts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitHoMbFMXFfvjGHyRSPN45AJqZ9cpH5pGYw60IzQdDNzY4uvBm5ZRdEqWXoVjc1VNN3Y40OGK6X7oEi_laVVomDbXpLKqQYhWEPnI1KgQhUfvlaPngmEpg1RPUN9Da00kcIn3ecOVkJFkL/s320/Winter+Hearts.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Lots of little filler bits in those gaps over the flowers to put in but it's getting there. The picture is really distorted - I had to unroll the fabric from the scroll rods so it's sagging there in the middle. Hopefully, the next time you see this, the border will be done and I'll have started on the hearts. Speaking of next time, I may (leaning more towards will) be gone my next scheduled posting day. I am hoping to be in Michigan that day. Hard to believe, but Cassie will have completed her first trip around the sun the end of the month and there's going to be a party. Looking forward to the party, but more looking forward to seeing everyone.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Other crafting, mostly knitting but a little crochet has happened but not enough of either to really speak of (and besides, I forgot to take pictures).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is the shortest post I've done in a while but one-at-a-time and slumps don't make for newsy posts. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hope everyone is well.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-9787414634312968552021-05-30T15:38:00.001-04:002021-05-30T15:39:13.631-04:00Even less this week<p> Once again, not my usual posting day. I went to the optometrist and ran errands Friday morning (and a good chunk of the afternoon - I forgot how long it takes to do the grocery shopping when you actually go into the store) and then cut out things and sewed the rest of the day and well into the night. I made two sock project bags <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvkGQGm9ptG2Fy7NHrRuAubQQrG37rEeS7oIt7UXT8A8Kz5IJyHfVnDKS2z85MqDeQnLy8LtpgER51kQ6fay97yeS91VNI49bPK0SR1nybtxN4abznNVmnJnIydsL1jOjT74x5Y2Zbwj7Y/s2048/sock+bags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvkGQGm9ptG2Fy7NHrRuAubQQrG37rEeS7oIt7UXT8A8Kz5IJyHfVnDKS2z85MqDeQnLy8LtpgER51kQ6fay97yeS91VNI49bPK0SR1nybtxN4abznNVmnJnIydsL1jOjT74x5Y2Zbwj7Y/w200-h200/sock+bags.jpg" width="200" /></a> and two <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj1ZM1IyWxPTga9y1z19NVWxvls1xwX_vXEAE5GNPGVVWIYf4Xh4ec373VFpBcfH93o1F9bwqau-kNVOuYan0fiYe8OX3iYE2F6nggvusTGl5xNr2Imc9e7_oprYa_o3fOd-uTqtciesYg/s2048/shawl+bags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj1ZM1IyWxPTga9y1z19NVWxvls1xwX_vXEAE5GNPGVVWIYf4Xh4ec373VFpBcfH93o1F9bwqau-kNVOuYan0fiYe8OX3iYE2F6nggvusTGl5xNr2Imc9e7_oprYa_o3fOd-uTqtciesYg/w200-h150/shawl+bags.jpg" width="200" /></a> shawl/sweater sized bags. If I make the larger bags again I will need to get a stiffer interfacing (maybe the fusible fleece) as they are a little droopy. I also forgot to write down the final dimensions (I was making it up as I was cutting and sewing) so another thing on my "don't forget to do list." </p><p>Saturday I got started on the housework that didn't get done on Friday and did some more sewing. I finished DSon's pillow <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh3ZQxckhjzthCYTiH0wi2fN57SOiXMnROFDdddrr0S-HZIRWdL3Gohw_-2prr660E82nx4asGUQgb5tQzDXQwp6nxcxTO837rV3sGgXaPeMw7Xxq0SwfxVRDrR3kqM-OAaO5cSR5FxhtD/s2048/Godzilla+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh3ZQxckhjzthCYTiH0wi2fN57SOiXMnROFDdddrr0S-HZIRWdL3Gohw_-2prr660E82nx4asGUQgb5tQzDXQwp6nxcxTO837rV3sGgXaPeMw7Xxq0SwfxVRDrR3kqM-OAaO5cSR5FxhtD/w200-h200/Godzilla+pillow.jpg" width="200" /></a>. The photo does not capture how vibrant the stitching fabric is. Rather than the comic strip style/color backing fabric I used this: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-H5VT1_np6L8mDaLCT-1wl6LF3R6UJeQate0IkbNxybfGOXMWE7DAak7lEI-KMuHllOD7En4Ehnl2UPY0_UEZdInyXxUQEIDhZY6hhA0wydj_FaGaVvhjE5lxrwhdAlAyqDt6jqXt1Ovk/s2048/Back+of+Godzilla.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-H5VT1_np6L8mDaLCT-1wl6LF3R6UJeQate0IkbNxybfGOXMWE7DAak7lEI-KMuHllOD7En4Ehnl2UPY0_UEZdInyXxUQEIDhZY6hhA0wydj_FaGaVvhjE5lxrwhdAlAyqDt6jqXt1Ovk/w200-h200/Back+of+Godzilla.jpg" width="200" /></a>. This fabric and the blue scales in the shawl bag came from <a href="https://www.spoonflower.com/">Spoonflower</a>. I could easily go crazy on their website, but I have enough fabric in my "quilting" stash to make many, many more bags.</p><p>Today is the May <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjneAfDvTLpvkt5IaaBmRjkw_Ng3wSMr_w0Lo2YDYcwiwbWsH1HkkGc-Tkq20Mc_0OFiHItYzi2tO2qt3Zo-h4iFMnU3f-CUhIFtGDM3Uzqgg1l9ejdkKOyrBjOGJddDqL_IoEw9B1vd1Ro/s240/WIPocalypse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="240" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjneAfDvTLpvkt5IaaBmRjkw_Ng3wSMr_w0Lo2YDYcwiwbWsH1HkkGc-Tkq20Mc_0OFiHItYzi2tO2qt3Zo-h4iFMnU3f-CUhIFtGDM3Uzqgg1l9ejdkKOyrBjOGJddDqL_IoEw9B1vd1Ro/w200-h200/WIPocalypse.jpg" width="200" /></a> check-in. WIPocalypse is hosted by Melissa at <a href="https://measi.net/measiblog/">Measi's Musings</a>. No sign-up, just post about your WIPs and link up (either on her blog or the Facebook group) on the last Sunday of the month. Since I changed my stitching plan, I have stitched nothing from my original WIPocalyse list. I hadn't even factored in there would be baby stitching this year when I made my list. Fortunately the rules allow for new starts and additions and subtractions from your original list, so I added <i>Winter Hearts</i> by Shepherd's Bush:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxSVDATj9LDNW9WsR45_9kqlURXV-lTJGhdTgau0fSoUc-qNSQwftXkhSdx34oUGBObj-4dpXq87rcQGGhHsRrwyArytI8SnWEZVQ5zOWNcQhgtXs0EcPj-UsT3drvHwsQzCCXZNtwuesz/s2048/Winter+Hearts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxSVDATj9LDNW9WsR45_9kqlURXV-lTJGhdTgau0fSoUc-qNSQwftXkhSdx34oUGBObj-4dpXq87rcQGGhHsRrwyArytI8SnWEZVQ5zOWNcQhgtXs0EcPj-UsT3drvHwsQzCCXZNtwuesz/s320/Winter+Hearts.jpg" /></a></div>This is done with all the kit materials - white Belfast linen, Au ver a Soie and white 12 perle cotton. I did stitch a bit more after this picture was taken and have finished to the center of the border. It is taking a lot longer than expected (story of my stitching life) as while the leaves are all one color, they aren't large so lots of starting and stopping (that and I've been watching FlossTube while stitching and everytime someone shows a project or chart, I have to go look for it - fortunately I haven't been buying just looking). The flowers and leaves will be connected by a vine. As I am all caught up on everything, I plan to spend the rest of today and a good chunk of tomorrow (Memorial Day) working on this. In addition to posting our progress, Melissa gives us questions each month. This month's is: <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Open Sans", Tahoma, Verdana, Segoe, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">What was the first project you ever stitched? (whether you finished or not). </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">My first cross stitch project was a Santa face. It was a kit and came with everything - hoop, fabric, thread and needle. The hoop became the frame for the finished piece. I remember finishing it, but I'm not sure what happened to it. I seldom get rid of Christmas decorations, so I imagine it's in a box somewhere in the basement. </span></span><div><span style="color: #222222; font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #222222; font-family: trebuchet;">I think that's about it. I have done some knitting on the baby blanket but as that's just rows of baubles that look like all the other rows of baubles, there's not too much to show.</span></div><div><span style="color: #222222; font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #222222; font-family: trebuchet;">Hope you are all well.</span><br /><p></p></div>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-52373015252399067702021-05-14T19:03:00.001-04:002021-05-16T18:45:24.864-04:00Not a lot this time.<p> It's been two weeks already? I had a couple hours off last Friday afternoon and that's thrown my sense of time off a bit (not that that is difficult right now). </p><p>No new birds to report this time. Sadly, the migratory ones have moved on. We do have at least three pairs of cardinals that are <strike>sharing</strike> tolerating each other around the yard and woodline this year, but I haven't seen the grosbeak in a week and we're down to one blue jay so other than the cardinals and the male Goldfinches some of the brightness has gone from the feeders. </p><p>Some littles news: </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhabD0c1fkZIqxVMeJ3jrSK5zxtfIf5XXpwaF8NAYrHgRYXOCDo6V46ikQK3Tq_-jkLh74LmIvJv5w7GHvdsPk2l0dM3Lm66LczsKPF1GRIikETSNrVXHobrU_GBdWMU1b5UDhD6MfKIsf6/s1201/Cassie+Walking.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="733" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhabD0c1fkZIqxVMeJ3jrSK5zxtfIf5XXpwaF8NAYrHgRYXOCDo6V46ikQK3Tq_-jkLh74LmIvJv5w7GHvdsPk2l0dM3Lm66LczsKPF1GRIikETSNrVXHobrU_GBdWMU1b5UDhD6MfKIsf6/s320/Cassie+Walking.png" /></a></div><p>She's going to be running with her brother and cousin in no time. What's the saying, "moving out of the way for the next one?" </p><p>In my last post I said I was going to have a new rotation by this one. I did a lot of thinking and it looks like the best option is to go one-at-a-time on each project. It worked well last year (I was even done early) so hoping it will this year too.</p><p>I also mentioned that I had two pieces picked out for Grady's sister and was all set to start one of them, but was missing fabric or thread for both of them. An order was placed and the waiting commenced. I could have picked up <i>Goldie</i> but knitting was calling louder so I spent a week working on my Knights Who Say Knit MAL.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqmL-Qxk3c2Xdy8iLQ-MJMPPfJyvn_HfXp9_i77FbiXz7ASUtz92q9T8lZtT7GEfwfwsshByYu66dW4QmpYgo9D73jAUP33P5BOG1B-4uHeFBWBLpL9QJ5xPU9fBXy5-9jR7SHS5jpllFq/s2048/Knights+who+say+Knit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqmL-Qxk3c2Xdy8iLQ-MJMPPfJyvn_HfXp9_i77FbiXz7ASUtz92q9T8lZtT7GEfwfwsshByYu66dW4QmpYgo9D73jAUP33P5BOG1B-4uHeFBWBLpL9QJ5xPU9fBXy5-9jR7SHS5jpllFq/w320-h240/Knights+who+say+Knit.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>This is part 1 and a bit of part 2 finished. Lots of artistic license happening (especially in the very top part. I have pulled it back and started 3 times but can't seem to get it to work, so I am doing a "variation"). The puffs towards the top are areas between some lacework and should block out when it's done. I did do a quick steam block to straighten out the bottom and get it more in shape. As expected, I am not keeping up with this any better than I do a SAL as part the last will be released on Monday.</p><p>My order came in (EARLIER then the tracker said!!!) and I started <i>Winter Hearts</i> by Shepherd's Bush. It's done on white Belfast with Soie d'Alger and perle cotton.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg85sV8VnTAxoekJyq1B5CQS0m6kLMMh7Vgydupy4G9mkYBGFNUF0qQb8_72HHQ162I1Z6QJulgqiu02HmlgSJYyGLQprHDuqupgf-NgwZtZrNciT1aLKSdUpjgnNlkuJXFfYUXtlzH7NY/s2048/Winter+Hearts.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg85sV8VnTAxoekJyq1B5CQS0m6kLMMh7Vgydupy4G9mkYBGFNUF0qQb8_72HHQ162I1Z6QJulgqiu02HmlgSJYyGLQprHDuqupgf-NgwZtZrNciT1aLKSdUpjgnNlkuJXFfYUXtlzH7NY/s320/Winter+Hearts.jpg" /></a></div>The boxes are done with four-sided stitch and are taking me forever to do (it's good tv stitching). It's in muted greens, pinks and purples. The baby's room is being done in greys and pinks so I thought this would go well (and it's not babyish so could stay up for a while). There will be a heart in each block with different specialty stitches. The border is leaves and that flower in the corner that you really can't see. This is an old kit (the chart is hand drawn) and I don't think it's available (the Shepherd's Bush website says if you'd like to purchase to contact them). <p></p><p>I just realized that tomorrow is the official check-in for <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIxyAYSX28oYBeUHQkzL1IM1zXuBlEU17JN2dmWr7RhMuEeASjeOawhcM9FNjLMFytXmLcJl2X3OsEWDJWSQW04jclFSTXWaLcEksVzpP-uZVOLXF5Hp_EoUb4p-2MjwWPKGnCWJVIYQy/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="193" data-original-width="200" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIxyAYSX28oYBeUHQkzL1IM1zXuBlEU17JN2dmWr7RhMuEeASjeOawhcM9FNjLMFytXmLcJl2X3OsEWDJWSQW04jclFSTXWaLcEksVzpP-uZVOLXF5Hp_EoUb4p-2MjwWPKGnCWJVIYQy/w200-h193/image.png" width="200" /></a> and even though I'm off my normal rotation I still have projects that fit. Gifted Gorgeousness is hosted by the every wonderful Jo at Serendipitous Stitching. She started this in 2015 as a way to show our appreciation for stitching gifts that we may have received. It expanded to include gifts we are making for others or anything else we can shoehorn into the theme. My MAL fits as I bought the yarn with birthday money. <i>Winter Hearts</i> definitely fits as it's a gift for my great-niece-to-be as does this (my secret project from a bit ago):</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvCMx8Qe8z59x_VjBIYVlBiylQOKwhFcly7th1rKwK8HriDrGzT8xryLxcSJrz-fp6C8NLyOf8hCokZRLJ_MGtrGh0jCA9J04Y2JXa2QjsdMI3AibLHveJ2sO5utqmQ2HIvxI7e-bCJZ-j/s2048/Raccoons.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvCMx8Qe8z59x_VjBIYVlBiylQOKwhFcly7th1rKwK8HriDrGzT8xryLxcSJrz-fp6C8NLyOf8hCokZRLJ_MGtrGh0jCA9J04Y2JXa2QjsdMI3AibLHveJ2sO5utqmQ2HIvxI7e-bCJZ-j/s320/Raccoons.jpg" /></a></div><i>Raccoon Rabble</i> from Plum Street Samplers. It's done on 36-count 'Shroom Juice (my tag doesn't say which company) with the called for threads. Here's the back: <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib3Nol1YFzm5LpNKwGAkfmcY1CpZqa297StIspJ2UzlWoq7cZYnQS2Ea6a3p2KndrKdPY1zKtW9Ei-3YPBdzzcoB5J3QypFQNCf2DW_wS7BL5sxbAg7dNLc1Y2LLUAwYkhXf5OeyIHFv-T/s2048/Raccoon+back.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib3Nol1YFzm5LpNKwGAkfmcY1CpZqa297StIspJ2UzlWoq7cZYnQS2Ea6a3p2KndrKdPY1zKtW9Ei-3YPBdzzcoB5J3QypFQNCf2DW_wS7BL5sxbAg7dNLc1Y2LLUAwYkhXf5OeyIHFv-T/s320/Raccoon+back.jpg" /></a></div><br />The chenille trim is from Lady Dot Creates (and it looks like I forgot to tie the bow in the corner). This was a Mother's Day gift for my mom.<div><br /></div><div>I've liked all the Plum Street stacks but have you seen the newest? It's hedgehogs and sooooo darn cute.</div><div><br /></div><div>So, I could have sworn I worked on more, but for the life of me, if I did, I can't remember what it was.</div><div><br /></div><div>Today was my compressed day off and all the housework and grocery shopping is done, so I have the weekend to work on the hearts. Maybe I'll finish those boxes!</div><div><br /></div><div>Hope you're all safe and well.<p><br /></p><p><br /></p> </div>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-60104194313293247182021-05-14T18:51:00.007-04:002021-06-01T03:13:39.510-04:00Not a lot this time.<p> It's been two weeks already? I had a couple hours off last Friday afternoon and that's thrown my sense of time off a bit (not that that is difficult right now). </p><p>No new birds to report this time. Sadly, the migratory ones have moved on. We do have at least three pairs of cardinals that are <strike>sharing</strike> tolerating each other around the yard and woodline this year, but I haven't seen the grosbeak in a week and we're down to one blue jay so other than the cardinals and the male Goldfinches some of the brightness has gone from the feeders. </p><p>Some littles news: </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhabD0c1fkZIqxVMeJ3jrSK5zxtfIf5XXpwaF8NAYrHgRYXOCDo6V46ikQK3Tq_-jkLh74LmIvJv5w7GHvdsPk2l0dM3Lm66LczsKPF1GRIikETSNrVXHobrU_GBdWMU1b5UDhD6MfKIsf6/s1201/Cassie+Walking.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="733" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhabD0c1fkZIqxVMeJ3jrSK5zxtfIf5XXpwaF8NAYrHgRYXOCDo6V46ikQK3Tq_-jkLh74LmIvJv5w7GHvdsPk2l0dM3Lm66LczsKPF1GRIikETSNrVXHobrU_GBdWMU1b5UDhD6MfKIsf6/s320/Cassie+Walking.png" /></a></div><p>She's going to be running with her brother and cousin in no time. What's the saying, "moving out of the way for the next one?" </p><p>In my last post I said I was going to have a new rotation by this one. I did a lot of thinking and it looks like the best option is to go one-at-a-time on each project. It worked well last year (I was even done early) so hoping it will this year too.</p><p>I also mentioned that I had two pieces picked out for Grady's sister and was all set to start one of them, but was missing fabric or thread for both of them. An order was placed and the waiting commenced. I could have picked up <i>Goldie</i> but knitting was calling louder so I spent a week working on my Knights Who Say Knit MAL.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqmL-Qxk3c2Xdy8iLQ-MJMPPfJyvn_HfXp9_i77FbiXz7ASUtz92q9T8lZtT7GEfwfwsshByYu66dW4QmpYgo9D73jAUP33P5BOG1B-4uHeFBWBLpL9QJ5xPU9fBXy5-9jR7SHS5jpllFq/s2048/Knights+who+say+Knit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqmL-Qxk3c2Xdy8iLQ-MJMPPfJyvn_HfXp9_i77FbiXz7ASUtz92q9T8lZtT7GEfwfwsshByYu66dW4QmpYgo9D73jAUP33P5BOG1B-4uHeFBWBLpL9QJ5xPU9fBXy5-9jR7SHS5jpllFq/w320-h240/Knights+who+say+Knit.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>This is part 1 and a bit of part 2 finished. Lots of artistic license happening (especially in the very top part. I have pulled it back and started 3 times but can't seem to get it to work, so I am doing a "variation"). The puffs towards the top are areas between some lacework and should block out when it's done. I did do a quick steam block to straighten out the bottom and get it more in shape. As expected, I am not keeping up with this any better than I do a SAL as part the last will be released on Monday.</p><p>My order came in (EARLIER then the tracker said!!!) and I started <i>Winter Hearts</i> by Shepherd's Bush. It's done on white Belfast with Soie d'Alger and perle cotton.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg85sV8VnTAxoekJyq1B5CQS0m6kLMMh7Vgydupy4G9mkYBGFNUF0qQb8_72HHQ162I1Z6QJulgqiu02HmlgSJYyGLQprHDuqupgf-NgwZtZrNciT1aLKSdUpjgnNlkuJXFfYUXtlzH7NY/s2048/Winter+Hearts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg85sV8VnTAxoekJyq1B5CQS0m6kLMMh7Vgydupy4G9mkYBGFNUF0qQb8_72HHQ162I1Z6QJulgqiu02HmlgSJYyGLQprHDuqupgf-NgwZtZrNciT1aLKSdUpjgnNlkuJXFfYUXtlzH7NY/s320/Winter+Hearts.jpg" /></a></div>The boxes are done with four-sided stitch and are taking me forever to do (it's good tv stitching). It's in muted greens, pinks and purples. The baby's room is being done in greys and pinks so I thought this would go well (and it's not babyish so could stay up for a while). There will be a heart in each block with different specialty stitches. The border is leaves and that flower in the corner that you really can't see. This is an old kit (the chart is hand drawn) and I don't think it's available (the Shepherd's Bush website says if you'd like to purchase to contact them). <p></p><p>I just realized that tomorrow is the official check-in for <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIxyAYSX28oYBeUHQkzL1IM1zXuBlEU17JN2dmWr7RhMuEeASjeOawhcM9FNjLMFytXmLcJl2X3OsEWDJWSQW04jclFSTXWaLcEksVzpP-uZVOLXF5Hp_EoUb4p-2MjwWPKGnCWJVIYQy/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="193" data-original-width="200" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIxyAYSX28oYBeUHQkzL1IM1zXuBlEU17JN2dmWr7RhMuEeASjeOawhcM9FNjLMFytXmLcJl2X3OsEWDJWSQW04jclFSTXWaLcEksVzpP-uZVOLXF5Hp_EoUb4p-2MjwWPKGnCWJVIYQy/w200-h193/image.png" width="200" /></a> and even though I'm off my normal rotation I still have projects that fit. Gifted Gorgeousness is hosted by the every wonderful Jo at Serendipitous Stitching. She started this in 2015 as a way to show our appreciation for stitching gifts that we may have received. It expanded to include gifts we are making for others or anything else we can shoehorn into the theme. My MAL fits as I bought the yarn with birthday money. <i>Winter Hearts</i> definitely fits as it's a gift for my great-niece-to-be as does this (my secret project from a bit ago):</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvCMx8Qe8z59x_VjBIYVlBiylQOKwhFcly7th1rKwK8HriDrGzT8xryLxcSJrz-fp6C8NLyOf8hCokZRLJ_MGtrGh0jCA9J04Y2JXa2QjsdMI3AibLHveJ2sO5utqmQ2HIvxI7e-bCJZ-j/s2048/Raccoons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvCMx8Qe8z59x_VjBIYVlBiylQOKwhFcly7th1rKwK8HriDrGzT8xryLxcSJrz-fp6C8NLyOf8hCokZRLJ_MGtrGh0jCA9J04Y2JXa2QjsdMI3AibLHveJ2sO5utqmQ2HIvxI7e-bCJZ-j/s320/Raccoons.jpg" /></a></div><i>Raccoon Rabble</i> from Plum Street Samplers. It's done on 36-count 'Shroom Juice (my tag doesn't say which company) with the called for threads. Here's the back: <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib3Nol1YFzm5LpNKwGAkfmcY1CpZqa297StIspJ2UzlWoq7cZYnQS2Ea6a3p2KndrKdPY1zKtW9Ei-3YPBdzzcoB5J3QypFQNCf2DW_wS7BL5sxbAg7dNLc1Y2LLUAwYkhXf5OeyIHFv-T/s2048/Raccoon+back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib3Nol1YFzm5LpNKwGAkfmcY1CpZqa297StIspJ2UzlWoq7cZYnQS2Ea6a3p2KndrKdPY1zKtW9Ei-3YPBdzzcoB5J3QypFQNCf2DW_wS7BL5sxbAg7dNLc1Y2LLUAwYkhXf5OeyIHFv-T/s320/Raccoon+back.jpg" /></a></div><br />The chenille trim is from Lady Dot Creates (and it looks like I forgot to tie the bow in the corner). This was a Mother's Day gift for my mom.<div><br /></div><div>I've liked all the Plum Street stacks but have you seen the newest? It's hedgehogs and sooooo darn cute.</div><div><br /></div><div>So, I could have sworn I worked on more, but for the life of me, if I did, I can't remember what it was.</div><div><br /></div><div>Today was my compressed day off and all the housework and grocery shopping is done, so I have the weekend to work on the hearts. Maybe I'll finish those boxes!</div><div><br /></div><div>Hope you're all safe and well.<p><br /></p><p><br /></p> <p></p></div>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-54023459918936312552021-05-02T14:35:00.002-04:002021-05-02T14:35:37.207-04:00A little behind my time<p>Rather than a leisurely lie-in on Friday (my day off), I had to get up earlier than I normally do for work, take my car to the garage and wait while they repaired the windshielf wiper motor. To be fair, the motor worked just fine it just turned itself on and off at inappropriate times. After getting that all sorted, I made a quick trip (if there is such a thing) to Trader Joe's and then home. By then, my weekend schedule was thrown completely off kilter and here I am blogging on a Sunday. Not just a Sunday, but the first Sunday in May!!! </p><p>I think this one's going to be long, so grab a cuppa your favorite:</p><p>The bird sightings for this blog are very colorful. A pair of rose-breasted grosbeak. Here's a picture of a male and female from the <a href="https://www.birdsandblooms.com/birding/bird-species/finches-and-buntings/rose-breasted-grosbeak/">Birds & Blooms</a> website:</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg85ObLOWJ26LNX-gTRchPFl_tNj243UtEFJoMMZbA1oZbeJBg8XjBgEG6rNNy0xapJ4L4G8gtMIFD7PrKChGnaE4hJ2i78IrwBBc3FYA29OL5iSwJSt9oQwOA7B8B1JsATr0_8-rzcvxDY/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg85ObLOWJ26LNX-gTRchPFl_tNj243UtEFJoMMZbA1oZbeJBg8XjBgEG6rNNy0xapJ4L4G8gtMIFD7PrKChGnaE4hJ2i78IrwBBc3FYA29OL5iSwJSt9oQwOA7B8B1JsATr0_8-rzcvxDY/" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">We are in their migratory area so they'll only be around for a few days to maybe a week but always nice to have them stop by.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">We also had a brief stop by of four or five ruby-throated hummingbirds last week. Here's a picture of a male from <a href="https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2015/apr/30/area-birding-migratory-bird-day-approaches/">The Spokesman-Review:</a> (not my local paper, but a very good picture)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirByHgxKk0h2-JW5xczfZawJbKjw-_VSfnPgMYXUFgYsyXp2_341YqXZlh2_qNu0azFoIPBhqf6LwVuVqjczmT0gsfAlSqKShOmrxB-MQ9bu3gYzpKZs7KKy-rOkKufcbwGrVeNFLRPYcm/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="400" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirByHgxKk0h2-JW5xczfZawJbKjw-_VSfnPgMYXUFgYsyXp2_341YqXZlh2_qNu0azFoIPBhqf6LwVuVqjczmT0gsfAlSqKShOmrxB-MQ9bu3gYzpKZs7KKy-rOkKufcbwGrVeNFLRPYcm/" width="300" /></a></div><br />As best as I could tell, there were three males and two females. We usually have two or three pairs that stay through the summer, butI haven't seen any that look like they're settling in yet.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And while I was typing, a male indigo bunting <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtTyE7PnlXe3uQLE_0u5nUljhvb8516KUWfPgBFWngJbzAXnS0fdYkka_wx953KS6OuiLKQHix7wzxAlal2kegadvgl111__O7DFCe2e3IyHCbsXT9T5atYX0tq-m106aTy5D7xfMGhT60/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtTyE7PnlXe3uQLE_0u5nUljhvb8516KUWfPgBFWngJbzAXnS0fdYkka_wx953KS6OuiLKQHix7wzxAlal2kegadvgl111__O7DFCe2e3IyHCbsXT9T5atYX0tq-m106aTy5D7xfMGhT60/w200-h150/image.png" width="200" /></a> joined the group at the feeders. We're in their breeding area, but I only see them occasionally. The photo is from <a href="https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Indigo_Bunting/id">The Cornell Lab</a>.<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">But you're not here for birds are you? How about:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic1dlxds4C2Rgt6hlli_Uqkn_A_sEmN-FQTu3A6GRnGwdEzcqhdV4fgQ4I5fH31vAMCUgecha51xMN0TZDNm3dMxou0oPnVIBUr3eJmxCyKRKIz8CyqHTsFnTt1W7FIlzn6hci6FJv5NcO/s205/Baby+L.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="205" data-original-width="205" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic1dlxds4C2Rgt6hlli_Uqkn_A_sEmN-FQTu3A6GRnGwdEzcqhdV4fgQ4I5fH31vAMCUgecha51xMN0TZDNm3dMxou0oPnVIBUr3eJmxCyKRKIz8CyqHTsFnTt1W7FIlzn6hci6FJv5NcO/w200-h173/Baby+L.png" width="200" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">No, that's not the latest picture of Baby W, that is a picture of the newest Baby L! Jack and Cassie will have a sibling come October! Another new one to meet! And aren't the holidays going to be fun with five littles?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">That news changes my crafting plans for the rest of the year. As I need to do another blanket, birth notice/sampler and stocking, so April was probably the last month for my regular rotation. I'll need to work out a new one as I don't want to lose the momentum I've built up on <i>Goldie</i> and <i>Zen</i>.</div></div><p></p><p>With that, here's a broad recap for April - I stitched for some amount of time on 27 days, I knit on 29 and took one day off from both. </p><p>I'll start with the knitting. The majority of my knitting time has been for Baby W's blanket. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTnPMs2vIu41EDVhhPhGy40b_2Lb-KOmnIqIengnsypzCpuLWCAQ7kbchD0yNrcmjwYxRobNzSpC7Udw9lPGyQNId84Mm50pFtIYiSt_XtJ41HJEpQ9qu6ypy6SQ7aDcqQrYI0142TA_rc/s2048/Baby+Blanket.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTnPMs2vIu41EDVhhPhGy40b_2Lb-KOmnIqIengnsypzCpuLWCAQ7kbchD0yNrcmjwYxRobNzSpC7Udw9lPGyQNId84Mm50pFtIYiSt_XtJ41HJEpQ9qu6ypy6SQ7aDcqQrYI0142TA_rc/s320/Baby+Blanket.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>The pattern is Puffed Baby Blanket from Plymouth Yarn in Lion Brand Baby Soft in the Twinkle Print colorway. I am well into the second ball of yarn. This is a "knit until you're happy with the length" pattern so not sure how much more I have to do. </p><p>On the 19th, the first clue for the Knights Who Say Knit mystery MAL dropped. Clue 2 has dropped and Clue 3 will come out tomorrow, I still have two sections of Clue 1 to finish but I am very pleased with how it's coming along. I have done a LOT of unknitting, ripping back and have even learned to ladder down but I'm counting those as gains as they are all things I will need to know in future projects. There are still lots of mistakes but they are ones that I can live with. Here's where I was through section 5 of part 1:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWL0iwDr7cE9b_A4y8OeZrldbs9Y_f1s4JXaeDuk_6RotNlKGnm_BkCGmv32Obnd351USo4Mk9cLqCjcTf6QgWapkGoJ4IKTs2-y9-ShrYH9QwWaDNG_6LhAAWvQrPZzzy5VvtMxN6icPi/s2048/Knights+who+say+Knit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWL0iwDr7cE9b_A4y8OeZrldbs9Y_f1s4JXaeDuk_6RotNlKGnm_BkCGmv32Obnd351USo4Mk9cLqCjcTf6QgWapkGoJ4IKTs2-y9-ShrYH9QwWaDNG_6LhAAWvQrPZzzy5VvtMxN6icPi/s320/Knights+who+say+Knit.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Knights Who Say Knit by Lyrical Knits. Yarn from Miss Babs in Hamster and Elderberries </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And yes, that is an oldie but goodie Knights is sitting on - will get to that in a minute.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But, I just remembered <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDZHa7K2_LiF9as2s6DBOnhywO2W2iz9tt-e5Su794DKOBiszV0HiSEF4AXxEI13FrIgsWYWTiJhgWUscjyKCGcX8taN-gvA5qCT7R204WmpNekFmWg3ifj2AesCuZjCuWj6F2skKoEXYw/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="240" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDZHa7K2_LiF9as2s6DBOnhywO2W2iz9tt-e5Su794DKOBiszV0HiSEF4AXxEI13FrIgsWYWTiJhgWUscjyKCGcX8taN-gvA5qCT7R204WmpNekFmWg3ifj2AesCuZjCuWj6F2skKoEXYw/w200-h200/image.png" width="200" /></a> was last Sunday and my next project falls under it. WIPocalypse is hosted by Melissa at Measi's Musings. It's an encouraging SAL to remind us to give a little love to the pieces we've already started even though that or that or that new start is calling. When I posted last I had four days left on my <i>Japanese Zen Moss Garden</i> by Chatelaine. You can see previous progress pictures from April <a href="https://yellowflowermeadow.blogspot.com/2021/04/spring-has-sprung.html">here</a>. In the days that were remaining in its rotation it went from here: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_rR92GCbaoyX7hP8rz5RWruYcNhGXmUtSb3qxm_w6i-gOR33QgxBS1VrHic92sw_wUklovDAW6p8yNWldWfpPARK6jeiW9r8A2uWRz87xqdFsGhiMydHK704KpO330WyWlYimC7JL1tvN/s2048/Zen.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_rR92GCbaoyX7hP8rz5RWruYcNhGXmUtSb3qxm_w6i-gOR33QgxBS1VrHic92sw_wUklovDAW6p8yNWldWfpPARK6jeiW9r8A2uWRz87xqdFsGhiMydHK704KpO330WyWlYimC7JL1tvN/w200-h200/Zen.jpg" width="200" /></a> to here: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYtn_4yNNG74hWTrO9wurfX9-8PmVx3OQpOiioTt7TiqOe3-oimqspPbxprbGi3NuHi4Bd0Zz-ynCcA6Gt_Uo5936frcuEEaty_f4WIdqfuYAY5s0J8X5NIVscwPyypHuPssu1zkEPhuQg/s2048/Zen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYtn_4yNNG74hWTrO9wurfX9-8PmVx3OQpOiioTt7TiqOe3-oimqspPbxprbGi3NuHi4Bd0Zz-ynCcA6Gt_Uo5936frcuEEaty_f4WIdqfuYAY5s0J8X5NIVscwPyypHuPssu1zkEPhuQg/w200-h200/Zen.jpg" width="200" /></a> H<span style="text-align: center;">ere's a closer look: </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP7aEv7Ba-EokkDUKr_gCK5DdJlqCFO5TH6Gl92k2SJKJVKYwS08M5sVhVx4eWY_aRrA7RdjYZti909wrFCWsDiwcrqD1K2Q2HLsl9lWUlyWKLnWQQb3nJa4MiTVXGrmNchdjKzhRbfLx3/s2048/Zen+Closer+Look.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP7aEv7Ba-EokkDUKr_gCK5DdJlqCFO5TH6Gl92k2SJKJVKYwS08M5sVhVx4eWY_aRrA7RdjYZti909wrFCWsDiwcrqD1K2Q2HLsl9lWUlyWKLnWQQb3nJa4MiTVXGrmNchdjKzhRbfLx3/w200-h200/Zen+Closer+Look.jpg" width="200" /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You can also see my progress on <i>Goldie</i> in the previous post. She's the other project on my WIPocalypse list this year. Melissa gives us prompts each month and April's was: <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Open Sans", Tahoma, Verdana, Segoe, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Have you found yourself to be more or less productive in your stitching during the Covid-19 pandemic? </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: times;">This is an easy one for me - MUCH more productive. As I've mentioned, I used to get up at 3:45 AM, leave my house by 4:45AM, return about 7:45 PM and was in bed by 9:00 PM so not a lot of time for much of anything. My stitching/crafting time was limited to a few hours on the weekends and whatever I could manage on the train (although the train had become so crowded that it was difficult to do any stitching). Since I've been working from home, I've not only gained the commuting time but several additioal hours as I don't have to go to bed with the sun (well that saying only works in the summer but...). My biggest issue was getting myself out of the mindset of "I don't want to get settled as I don't know when this will end". I still feel that way, but we have been told we will be given at least 30 days notice before we have to come back into the office and once back in the office, we'll still be on, as best as I can tell, a very telework heavy schedule. I believe I'll be teleworking four days a week. They haven't given any guidance on our schedule if we're on an alternate work schedule like I am. It is possible, I may only have to go in one day every other week.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: times;">Once I finished my 10 days on <i>Zen</i>, I pulled out <i>Temperature Tree</i> and added the rest of March's and through April 22nd's leaves. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZL8hGAe6c7AorOalY-ak60GqMm6Z04axPjyXLIeSC_T8xb0hY04MjLo0uP6zZkHpMGDABNAmdvfo6oo-o3sskqsFE3ppToi2Ai744Tmrhy8eEUatKu84IQ45V51RZtix39QKcZUd64ByV/s2048/Temperature+Tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZL8hGAe6c7AorOalY-ak60GqMm6Z04axPjyXLIeSC_T8xb0hY04MjLo0uP6zZkHpMGDABNAmdvfo6oo-o3sskqsFE3ppToi2Ai744Tmrhy8eEUatKu84IQ45V51RZtix39QKcZUd64ByV/w200-h200/Temperature+Tree.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>It is still a much cooler tree than last year, although there are a few warm days in there. At some point I will post a comparison with last year's.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: times;">Once <i>Temperature Tree </i>was caught up, the Wheel of What's Next? was consulted and decided that <i>Elegant Doily</i> deserved some time. The best I can tell, the last time this piece was on the frame was for a week in August of 2015. This is one of my oldest WIPs. I started it during my son's senior year in high school. His 20-year reunion is this year. Here's where it was when I started </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ16bWvbrDxNLxa3kytsCA483BfLNq3n5ChEICy6G5QwsH3HJwI1ZPazdAexjHI4wTjG4svtF-8nEogxtg1ierr4aeuTlz1mrBmK_GJ7icNvnPGA2giYyiVXcpUmGGiQ5W79Wbq3yHbRBP/s2048/hardanger.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; font-family: times; font-size: 16px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ16bWvbrDxNLxa3kytsCA483BfLNq3n5ChEICy6G5QwsH3HJwI1ZPazdAexjHI4wTjG4svtF-8nEogxtg1ierr4aeuTlz1mrBmK_GJ7icNvnPGA2giYyiVXcpUmGGiQ5W79Wbq3yHbRBP/w200-h150/hardanger.JPG" width="200" /></a> and when I finished up on Friday <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixoC4E9fTR8rlahu1-60cipSaTUdO9GJOBRweR4UnYij_bCtOtqIQM-whaCsagnRMRRcEpiAHAXLiyLRnoYqBzDb3B7JRuToQtcxrblzPwvEkF_saZvg07TYTxAWGb6VyPnd3NRHvN0Xg3/s2048/Elegant+Doily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixoC4E9fTR8rlahu1-60cipSaTUdO9GJOBRweR4UnYij_bCtOtqIQM-whaCsagnRMRRcEpiAHAXLiyLRnoYqBzDb3B7JRuToQtcxrblzPwvEkF_saZvg07TYTxAWGb6VyPnd3NRHvN0Xg3/w200-h150/Elegant+Doily.jpg" width="200" /></a> <span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: times;"> and here's a closer look </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS8QeboJat6Y17K1WGvnIne0RKxxhE9Qt9tHFoOMVTa4I5aWodmc8DE5PZxJ5fFb6Cyd1_F45dY3poMCveWuG29E7M15z5srzIIPIn6KhF5zsgUUhU_7mbHiPi5W719YbwwtEpwufRDkjZ/s2048/upclose+hardanger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; font-family: times; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS8QeboJat6Y17K1WGvnIne0RKxxhE9Qt9tHFoOMVTa4I5aWodmc8DE5PZxJ5fFb6Cyd1_F45dY3poMCveWuG29E7M15z5srzIIPIn6KhF5zsgUUhU_7mbHiPi5W719YbwwtEpwufRDkjZ/w200-h200/upclose+hardanger.jpg" width="200" /></a> Not a lot done. I finished cutting the diamond on the left and the squares in the diamond and started wrapping. This one takes me forever to get going on. I will find anything to do but work on it. Once I get started, it is enjoyable, but it takes SO much to get me started. Hopefully, the Wheel of What's Next? will pick it again soon and I'll remember how relaxing it is to wrap those bars and sit down and start right away.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Phew! I think that's it. Next time I hope to have my new rotation figured out. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As I still haven't decided between two pieces for Baby W's announcement, I'm going to start one today to see if it sparks anything. If not, maybe it will work for Baby L. If not, I had it in my stash so I must have liked it and will have it done.</div></div>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-69173249037753372062021-04-16T19:30:00.000-04:002021-04-16T19:30:10.000-04:00Spring has sprung<p>Spring has definitely arrived in central Virginia. Everything, and I do mean everything, is blooming. If the sneezing and itchy eyes weren't clue enough, seeing this <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2h-4mXc5TLcAnNxyRuU_zmZvle8bZjAXVS8_7XmedWlMaGI8W0C33005_8uYhDM-5jMjzbe_AY-7pX3KdXeEt-JpqBq_zinnTUStlBUyxwY0PfYPKVGfi0i1tuW11auZwreGeAWpzSF3a/s2048/Pollen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2h-4mXc5TLcAnNxyRuU_zmZvle8bZjAXVS8_7XmedWlMaGI8W0C33005_8uYhDM-5jMjzbe_AY-7pX3KdXeEt-JpqBq_zinnTUStlBUyxwY0PfYPKVGfi0i1tuW11auZwreGeAWpzSF3a/w150-h200/Pollen.jpg" width="150" /></a> was a dead give-away. Yes, that's a puddle covered in pollen. You can even see where cars have driven through it and left tracks on the pavement. As with many things, it's the pollen you can't see that really gets you.</p><p>Other than the start of yellow car season (the pollen is also nature's fingerprint powder, there are finger and hand prints all over my car where the pollen has stuck to the oils from our hands), there has been very little new happening the last <strike>year </strike>two weeks. I have stitched and there has been knitting (which I always forget to take a picture of) despite really just wanting to curl up in a comfy chair and read. </p><p>Looking at my crafting calendar, I'm only a day late for <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHENrSzCOpNWhRa1a2wWpjDVE_Ne16EyKJ-s6SLITluC-I2bLR6-0DF_2OrmuKTjVp5tzfZbS_WoyxL0GXMTZxl3rge6fV7x5puNCu3TPfdLec9zNwXLcu4oF2iwcnA2CQxupuq3XW5S89/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="193" data-original-width="200" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHENrSzCOpNWhRa1a2wWpjDVE_Ne16EyKJ-s6SLITluC-I2bLR6-0DF_2OrmuKTjVp5tzfZbS_WoyxL0GXMTZxl3rge6fV7x5puNCu3TPfdLec9zNwXLcu4oF2iwcnA2CQxupuq3XW5S89/w200-h193/image.png" width="200" /></a> which has got to be a new record for me and ties in perfectly with the two pieces I have worked on. Gifted Gorgeousness is hosted by Jo at <a href="https://serendipitousstitching.blogspot.com/p/gifted-gorgeousness-2021-sign-up-page.html">Serendipitous Stitching</a> (the link will take you to the Gifted Gorgeousness 2021 Sign-up Page, you can click on over to Jo's blog from there). Jo started the SAL as a way for us to say "thank you" to everyone that gave us stitching goodness, or to show things that we're stitching for others or for anything you can shoehorn into the theme. As I mentioned, I have two focus pieces in my rotation that are gifts. The first is <i>Goldie</i>. It is charted by Heaven and Earth Designs from a photograph my nephew took of my in-laws' dog and will be a Christmas gift for them. Last time I showed it, it was here:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi37bvMk7RvDkADENMQkCufMGn2iQNDSVXx5uUYKziZt0kASOVbZq9qc72n7g4D0WbJY08bo3waZ2GaGJXO4Z_1cZAVZYG0ISSboCRaD5YfC6QVmL-dBq4bMGohX8YTglzsGWKv7FEp47he/s2048/Goldie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi37bvMk7RvDkADENMQkCufMGn2iQNDSVXx5uUYKziZt0kASOVbZq9qc72n7g4D0WbJY08bo3waZ2GaGJXO4Z_1cZAVZYG0ISSboCRaD5YfC6QVmL-dBq4bMGohX8YTglzsGWKv7FEp47he/w200-h200/Goldie.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><p>and when I put her away after her rotation time, she was here:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOhclh4FJ46rOlBUrJG36Y58UwwPr4XFvW5jIt5SnFN33hEsfvm4rtKUEe5ISrEZdAEMKmdGzWx-cizwbiMu8Yb5Cot4iEttsqgyAEhTwM4Zpbvus1mej19ep0snYT_w_1sLO-6v3ez9Z-/s2048/Goldie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOhclh4FJ46rOlBUrJG36Y58UwwPr4XFvW5jIt5SnFN33hEsfvm4rtKUEe5ISrEZdAEMKmdGzWx-cizwbiMu8Yb5Cot4iEttsqgyAEhTwM4Zpbvus1mej19ep0snYT_w_1sLO-6v3ez9Z-/s320/Goldie.jpg" /></a></div><p>I am very happy with progress I made. I didn't follow through with my plan to stitch a length of blue for every dog color I stitched. As Goldie became more and more recognizable, I wanted to see how she was really going to look. She's stitched 1-over-1 on 28-count Antique White Monaco with DMC.</p><p>As soon as I put <i>Goldie </i>away, I put <i>Japanese Zen Moss Garden</i> on the frame. This one is a gift for my son. When it was put away after its last rotation, it was here:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjPHjxAd53fo2DrnjNhrWhDPOlhKa0ARuGNwXLcz7DDGxg2_g8Hv2_Kx2kmI1eFY621yOR-RpqEx9i4xCl2YrWuRtWhfc_qeLIAiBt0IRcPfzZXdQVGgqrHKWPglqqW4wkfbW2M1GbD90i/s2048/Zen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjPHjxAd53fo2DrnjNhrWhDPOlhKa0ARuGNwXLcz7DDGxg2_g8Hv2_Kx2kmI1eFY621yOR-RpqEx9i4xCl2YrWuRtWhfc_qeLIAiBt0IRcPfzZXdQVGgqrHKWPglqqW4wkfbW2M1GbD90i/w200-h200/Zen.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><p>and today it's here:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7gjuM0gNKGrmkPhYQ9qV4bZh2_Nt10qJbF1o_7L30mdEHHNq81tDIy84fgf6lIq-LfPNAQ7dHpl09TwRiP-RWQ_vxjmO1puC5ei7lOWCd-W2GG3rh8dqCy1PwGdSEvN5yF1K8Ee7z_UtL/s2048/Zen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7gjuM0gNKGrmkPhYQ9qV4bZh2_Nt10qJbF1o_7L30mdEHHNq81tDIy84fgf6lIq-LfPNAQ7dHpl09TwRiP-RWQ_vxjmO1puC5ei7lOWCd-W2GG3rh8dqCy1PwGdSEvN5yF1K8Ee7z_UtL/s320/Zen.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p>I am almost done with the lower left pond. Once I finish the cross stitching there, I'll move out to the waterfall/bushes. This comes off the frame on the 20th, so a fair amount of time to get that done. As I'm looking at the picture, I also need to square off one of the spaces in the lower right. The pattern is from <a href="https://chatelaine.de/">Chatelaine</a>. I'm stitching it on 32-count Summer Sky Jobelan from Wichelt using Martina's DMC conversion. The bead kit is from <a href="https://european-crosstitch-company.myshopify.com/">European Crosstitch Company</a>. <br /></p><p>Stitching and knitting tonight. Tomorrow I am going to mow the lawn (although I think the battery will need to be charged before I can get the lawnmower started) and then stitch or knit the rest of the weekend. Monday is the start of the Knights Who Say Knit KAL. It's a 5-part mystery shawl knit along designed by Mary Annarella of Lyrical Knits. The pattern is available on Ravelry and Payhip. I used my birthday money (thanks again Mom) and splurged on the "Hamsters and Elderberries" yarn set <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgohDjXMZ-Wmqtj7lTd1Rw1N0zKJIHwTRVzII273WQmRwA5CITL39qOWTB0BJHRHAS7FJ8ZiLpIttxX4CfIz9sokGAw3TReVXEhvuDEOR0TFlCdTuxeJU1hjWDUs2DOCWRU7hjAmmAF8zdM/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgohDjXMZ-Wmqtj7lTd1Rw1N0zKJIHwTRVzII273WQmRwA5CITL39qOWTB0BJHRHAS7FJ8ZiLpIttxX4CfIz9sokGAw3TReVXEhvuDEOR0TFlCdTuxeJU1hjWDUs2DOCWRU7hjAmmAF8zdM/w200-h200/image.png" width="200" /></a> from <a href="https://www.missbabs.com/">Miss Babs</a> (photo from the Miss Babs website). I haven't done a KAL but don't expect that I'll keep up with it any better than I do a SAL, but I will enjoy the journey.</p><p>Hope you are all well.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-60136966325515443292021-04-02T21:16:00.005-04:002021-04-02T21:16:49.236-04:00Pretty busy couple of weeks<p> I know it's only been two weeks but sure seems longer. I think part of the reason is that I worked on four different pieces during my ten days of "pick a stitch" at the end of the month. I'm used to seeing three pieces a month, so if there were six, it has to have been a long time. </p><p>Lots going on in the family the last couple of weeks. A couple of highlights:</p><p>Grady let us know...</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7K4fnEVSnfO_xxwp0shET0-5OkTl7w5aB-4ngebeqG3saZir25KRAYW9PIEXC60r1cvgRxEFb28zdDG78ZoaEOXPsCVvYoJT0jP7w4CygNxljxQCsIl3tksiDZbPnX-s3-x61BEUbFMKc/s982/Baby+Girl.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="982" data-original-width="736" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7K4fnEVSnfO_xxwp0shET0-5OkTl7w5aB-4ngebeqG3saZir25KRAYW9PIEXC60r1cvgRxEFb28zdDG78ZoaEOXPsCVvYoJT0jP7w4CygNxljxQCsIl3tksiDZbPnX-s3-x61BEUbFMKc/s320/Baby+Girl.PNG" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>He's going to be a really good big brother. The photo started my search for a pattern for an announcement. I've found two in my stash - <i>Baby Bug Ball </i>and <i>Sophie's Roses</i> both by Shepherd's Bush - that I keep coming back to, but I haven't started surfing for patterns yet. </p><p>Next was that DS moved into his first Michigan apartment (he lived in several when he lived in New Hampshire). As a housewarming gift, I did this for him:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRng2btSCb8Vl5rpmwaaT8HxgwC4iluiAhi0Fs8XGqL8Mmph_ONf8fYsw-1Y7daifNTvnjnTaFSWsv_PTKdeMzSBJUD1eYH0lcSUuYCEgZYIf7qqvGyu4t-o77cTZ50wg9opYzBpAvoVhB/s2048/Godzilla.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRng2btSCb8Vl5rpmwaaT8HxgwC4iluiAhi0Fs8XGqL8Mmph_ONf8fYsw-1Y7daifNTvnjnTaFSWsv_PTKdeMzSBJUD1eYH0lcSUuYCEgZYIf7qqvGyu4t-o77cTZ50wg9opYzBpAvoVhB/s320/Godzilla.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The pattern is from Ampyfied on Etsy. The fabric is 32-count Pacific Sunset from Sunny*Dyes Fabric and the thread is DMC. The only change I made was to stitch the heart in red. I'm planning to finish this as a pillow. I've got it in my head to have a cartoon-ish fabric on the back (I'm sure I can find Godzilla fabric on Etsy) with black piping. </div><div><br /><div>Stitching-wise, <i>Japanese Zen Moss Garden </i>had one more day of rotation. I had grand plans of getting the center finished and some beading started. Unfortunately, I realized that I'd done Algerian eyelets instead of Rhodes stitches in a couple of places and had to do some frogging. So while no beads, I did get most of the center done. Here's where it was:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUnvavtoj2m3LOcNChfYXM73n1zjKTYPJdcjHWQqpun3iln0EHK43cj7X_-RvFdUdijWT8G0gsYpsvrvxZ2QHH_95t0KsVpD3H3jQwRB7gdjBZxKjSz7j8NAqSs_1ydRcUWKyOCsFQNlPQ/s2048/Zen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUnvavtoj2m3LOcNChfYXM73n1zjKTYPJdcjHWQqpun3iln0EHK43cj7X_-RvFdUdijWT8G0gsYpsvrvxZ2QHH_95t0KsVpD3H3jQwRB7gdjBZxKjSz7j8NAqSs_1ydRcUWKyOCsFQNlPQ/s320/Zen.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>and here's the center with the specialty stitches done - most of those blank areas are beads or crystals:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjutwAfkCrkzx0wxO5_s7YTLldOcPtdPxnoyLXN3B6XV9xkWXscypw8QKurORrTecMYeVbUCq3UOvzi9TNJu7tydXESuPD5N2fEkj2QqD77rH-SIIjjg5Pz6phk762M2DfeL4YwYYl7bLeC/s2048/Zen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjutwAfkCrkzx0wxO5_s7YTLldOcPtdPxnoyLXN3B6XV9xkWXscypw8QKurORrTecMYeVbUCq3UOvzi9TNJu7tydXESuPD5N2fEkj2QqD77rH-SIIjjg5Pz6phk762M2DfeL4YwYYl7bLeC/s320/Zen.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>After finishing Zen's 10-days, I put <i>Temperature Tree</i> by StitchinMommy on Etsy on the frame and finished off February and got March started.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYTSBATI7GaQigk25xJeQmaUWw7Ygu4nNb4clmFukbXuKqi-8pbUD1EEDcruXaOnP6tt4aG3GNHIYTiRA0R9oaVoYrHWTiQ2zEt7Qk_x4ynVRH7_An7xZfwBJ-_N3hAr9y3VBuT0eWxgvY/s2048/Temperature+Tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYTSBATI7GaQigk25xJeQmaUWw7Ygu4nNb4clmFukbXuKqi-8pbUD1EEDcruXaOnP6tt4aG3GNHIYTiRA0R9oaVoYrHWTiQ2zEt7Qk_x4ynVRH7_An7xZfwBJ-_N3hAr9y3VBuT0eWxgvY/s320/Temperature+Tree.jpg" /></a></div><div>See those four gold/yellow leaves? That's the end of winter in central Virginia. We'll still have cool evenings and even a cool day or two - like today's 45 F - but we won't have any more really cold snaps. </div><div><br /></div><div>Once I got the leaves on the tree, I picked up my secret stitching and got it finished. I do need to finish-finish it, but I have a bit of time before it needs to be done. After that finish, I started and finished <i>May Godzilla Destroy This Home Last. </i>I had a few days left in the month, so spun the wheel of what's next? and worked on <i>Garden Fair </i>by Courtney Collection. I started this in January of 2020. It's been touched once since. When I last stitched on it, it was here:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi07Evj7rqAh4ASSCVX40wJzHdjC74nXQOWUr9xS0_iO7Vho_MWjfJ9ovzNGWzvE9altFKbcEvrSqct3PEKypc5PTRBmxKR0OZvXA8vCwIs0Qh8s4VI9reTDRJAj7DgqokEQnAnnImXYiwN/s2048/Garden+Fair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi07Evj7rqAh4ASSCVX40wJzHdjC74nXQOWUr9xS0_iO7Vho_MWjfJ9ovzNGWzvE9altFKbcEvrSqct3PEKypc5PTRBmxKR0OZvXA8vCwIs0Qh8s4VI9reTDRJAj7DgqokEQnAnnImXYiwN/s320/Garden+Fair.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>and when I put it away after it's 2-1/2 evenings of stitching, it was here:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGwYqmhSPLqNDAjQnh-dsAs07QILU_D2tKjqfSSK7Qp7Wxw7sifxXiPUpvwJbmAKFTmjZ5qSKS4ldnX_-AgZEy7M4-N8CQNh9YX4rgImLrKurcUR0YqyrPpz0iev-28-xdwUryoZ-1shhN/s2048/Country+Faire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGwYqmhSPLqNDAjQnh-dsAs07QILU_D2tKjqfSSK7Qp7Wxw7sifxXiPUpvwJbmAKFTmjZ5qSKS4ldnX_-AgZEy7M4-N8CQNh9YX4rgImLrKurcUR0YqyrPpz0iev-28-xdwUryoZ-1shhN/s320/Country+Faire.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>The before picture is wrong way around, I started this one in the lower right corner for some reason - I'm sure it made sense when I did it. I'm stitching this on 40-count Mallow using Anchor black and DMC 817. I will eventually frog the red corner motif but I wasn't in the mood for 1-over-1 frogging. </div><div><br /></div><div><i>Goldie </i>went back on the frame for her ten days yesterday. I didn't get enough stitches in last night for them to be noticable, so no progress picture of her.</div><div><br /></div><div>And before I totally forget, last Sunday was WIPocalypse check-in day. Fortunately, <span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Melissa ke</span>eps that post open for stragglers.</div><div><br /></div><div>Melissa at Measi's Musing started<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSnWrzVcTKXi_NzMkttDDFBoQhglCeUvmIFzZhKDnmysFZnNa6GhNeRmAb6O0x4beijM7znoihi9GuhrPpTQjlf8GLbT2zZ0b3kM186OZofi-V6fN2AuDtQyDrBc4-93fzm6-TPi20BsgW/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="240" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSnWrzVcTKXi_NzMkttDDFBoQhglCeUvmIFzZhKDnmysFZnNa6GhNeRmAb6O0x4beijM7znoihi9GuhrPpTQjlf8GLbT2zZ0b3kM186OZofi-V6fN2AuDtQyDrBc4-93fzm6-TPi20BsgW/w200-h200/image.png" width="200" /></a> in 2012 so we had a place to show the projects we wanted to finish before the end of the world and it's just kept going. Click on the badge at the top and it will take you to the official basics - there is also a Facebook group if you're more comfortable there. I have two official WIPocalypse pieces, <i>Goldie</i> and <i>Japanese Zen Moss Garden</i>. Zen's current picture is back just a bit in this post and <i>Goldie's </i>most recent picture is in my last post. There are cues each month and this month's is: <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Open Sans", Tahoma, Verdana, Segoe, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">What is your process for working on WIPs? Are you a one-at-a-time stitcher, a rotation stitcher, or something else? </span><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 16px;"> I am primarily a rotation stitcher. I have had as many as 25 and as few as two projects in a rotation. 25 was right out - touching something for an average of two weeks a year did not make for much progress but it did provide a lot of variety. Two provided progress, but not a lot of variety. This year, I've found a rotation that allows for both productivity and variety. My WIPocalypse pieces are my focus pieces. I stitch on <i>Goldie </i>from the 1st through the 10th of each month, <i>Japanese Zen Moss Garden</i> from the 11th through the 20th, on the 21st I add leaves to <i>Temperature Tree</i> and then I spin the wheel of what's next? and work on that project through the end of the month or until I get tired of it. If I get tired of it, I spin the wheel again and work on that project until the end of the month, or until I get tired of it, repeat as needed. Basically, those last 10 days are "stitch what I want with some guidelines". BUT all that changes when I have a project with a deadline. 2020 was primarily a one-at-a-time year with two littles joining the family so double the announcements and Christmas stockings. I will go OAAT once I find an announcement for Baby Girl W and when her Christmas stocking is picked. I will probably replace my last 10 days with knitting as the blanket is taking much longer then expected (which I tend to say about all my projects) I'll pick my rotation back up when I've finished all her stitching. Going back into the office will also require me to evaluate my rotation, but we'll not talk of that right yet.</span></span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 16px;">I havn't done any stitching today and not sure I will. I had a cramp in my right hand this afternoon and it still hurts. Sounds like a good evening to read.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 16px;">Hope everyone is well.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-86273203110795302442021-03-19T13:14:00.000-04:002021-03-19T13:14:50.590-04:00TUSAL, Gifted Gorgeousness and it's IHSW<p> So far my blogging and stitching plans are working <i>of course I have now cursed both of them</i>. I am making progress on both but not stressing myself out. I think my brain has finally settled into this "new" and I'm not thinking too hard on "what happens when I have to go back to the office". Based on an email from the Secretary (of Agriculture) my "when" sounds like it's still a ways off and even when we reach that point, it will be very different than before. He is reinstating our old telework policy that allowed for up to four days of telework per week and they're doing position reviews to see which ones can be done virtually (obviously the majority can as we've been doing it for a year now). My direct manager is all on with the four days of telework, and hopefully upper management will be too <i>I did hear that our Director said that managers had better have a very good reason for not allowing maximum telework so it sounds promising</i>. </p><p>Looking back at my stitching "journal", <a href="https://itsdaffycat.blogspot.com/2018/01/a-totally-useless-stitch-long.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="53" data-original-width="145" height="73" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9E05hXpeqlARgLz6XMyhq0IRVAEGimvSOSqeBaZn4EoKlqIYmSV2obdBpqEOFdXyBe-SV_X7sIfT8paQOptKOvSLcLiFDb9SfyWH7Db4JkYZ_ysZUZ5LQHCX-9X97vdWO1Kw4nGN6d_6F/w200-h73/image.png" width="200" /></a> was March 13th. TUSAL is hosted by Sharon at It's Daffycat and is a just-for-fun collecting SAL. What do you have to collect? All those little snips of thread or yarn or what-have-you that you normally <strike>have hanging on your pants leg </strike> throw away. Instead of throwing them away, put them in a decorative jar and on the new moon, post a picture. I'm a little late but fortunately, this isn't a high stress SAL. Here's what's in my jar right now:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbxp_94GJNIZqVIPHlOFoYGDys_J1MCXPe9pOaoInAKorC1Z-ZT755Ob5oL9MLjDfUXoNPN7I_BsZ87k264Avs_8PpK2PNvQlboDeGqso9n3Yh_PD3ao97qI1gqymDOvUZ7NOVcPSJltvu/s2048/TUSAL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbxp_94GJNIZqVIPHlOFoYGDys_J1MCXPe9pOaoInAKorC1Z-ZT755Ob5oL9MLjDfUXoNPN7I_BsZ87k264Avs_8PpK2PNvQlboDeGqso9n3Yh_PD3ao97qI1gqymDOvUZ7NOVcPSJltvu/w200-h200/TUSAL.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><p>I added quite a bit of frog fuzz this month. It really is leaning towards darker/earth tone colors right now, except for that splash of blue Kreinik, isn't it?</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://serendipitousstitching.blogspot.com/p/gifted-gorgeousness-2021-sign-up-page.html" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="193" data-original-width="200" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlaLnkFzaAN_wBCaONRMcVo1sAhyhEyKlIEwWlrDqIqgfS_G0NiKST8ylMdv32KFi4HBLEVZcL3PCx4Wc-K6sK1qi4j0M2DWEbEzT1PQfCVktzy0RHgY8lWSmaK9Lw2G6hADTvg41AHzEH/w200-h193/image.png" width="200" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p>check-in is the 15th of each month, but our lovely hostess, Jo at <a href="https://serendipitousstitching.blogspot.com/">Serendipitous Stitching</a> keeps the check-in open until the end of the month. What is Gifted Gorgeousness? It's our chance to thank everyone that has given us stitching gifts, or to show things we're stitching as gifts or anything else you can shoehorn into the theme of "gift". I have two focus pieces that fit perfectly in this SAL as they are both gifts.</p><p><i>Goldie</i> is charted by Heaven and Earth Designs and is a gift for my MIL and her husband. I was coming to the tail end of her rotation time in my last post but will show from the beginning of her rotation time.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">She started here the 1st of March<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZSFMPrMRBcXO3iUkq82RKLEjV67aVXZ_UnLhgxZ5ef8rBIbPyCuJLWu7u0WZn6iKemVzSbScX7JU0h4SPOrBus-vmcFiF455HkL4elc34_W2l2S4HtS0pE0o-2TvMZ6YoPE7Bzlmk9KQq/s2048/Goldie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZSFMPrMRBcXO3iUkq82RKLEjV67aVXZ_UnLhgxZ5ef8rBIbPyCuJLWu7u0WZn6iKemVzSbScX7JU0h4SPOrBus-vmcFiF455HkL4elc34_W2l2S4HtS0pE0o-2TvMZ6YoPE7Bzlmk9KQq/w320-h320/Goldie.jpg" width="320" /></a> <span style="text-align: left;">and when her 10 days were up, she was here:</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSGoFfVmUHp07N1rYAFUNJYwgfNnrZRU6h2fsUtKz8Fh1nuGbfM9gMw6VfViGGsIJAU2GnuMSo2FJasb2DxbbGrOf0AfZ-t22NcfcMN4NKz1on-bjCBRLd8lG4AGUJ55zPcB61W-t48hC7/s2048/Goldie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSGoFfVmUHp07N1rYAFUNJYwgfNnrZRU6h2fsUtKz8Fh1nuGbfM9gMw6VfViGGsIJAU2GnuMSo2FJasb2DxbbGrOf0AfZ-t22NcfcMN4NKz1on-bjCBRLd8lG4AGUJ55zPcB61W-t48hC7/w320-h320/Goldie.jpg" width="320" /></a> LOTS of blue was filled in, there was some frogging and restitching, lots of body stitching and all that brown in her face. EXCEPT the majority of the "brown" is DMC 934 which is actually a green, "Black Avocado Green" according to the DMC website. It is things like that color choice that lead me to ask no questions when stitching a HaED pattern. Should a green work, not in my mind, but it does.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After <i>Goldie</i> came off the frame, <i>Japanese Zen Moss Garden</i> went on. This one is a gift for my son. It was here at the start of its 10 days: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCV4ZlC-CFRqntN-nHohL77Md8S1AYt7LXrzi-W9pCB0EN1PosE85_koyuvWc1MOY9gXDam_RAW1xU64zIOa5d8-qS17V_IbhXc77inACGN-ZqOrrBWwMRH2T_WjHHb1tFfMqhNbe7E6ye/s2048/Zen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCV4ZlC-CFRqntN-nHohL77Md8S1AYt7LXrzi-W9pCB0EN1PosE85_koyuvWc1MOY9gXDam_RAW1xU64zIOa5d8-qS17V_IbhXc77inACGN-ZqOrrBWwMRH2T_WjHHb1tFfMqhNbe7E6ye/w320-h320/Zen.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">and today it's here: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiadden5YwcmnbpAyZEZzAFDVO0QfeYP0pDyQwwoMjDPlSanhf3SOmqT1AMwRoMlFrXvPPHsYj3tIPMVlv5BZu835ujEIwMHqUfXpvzNxrhSaZTC3bwmkkyRbTjo89EDvq0KIuIfRXNg-SB/s2048/Zen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiadden5YwcmnbpAyZEZzAFDVO0QfeYP0pDyQwwoMjDPlSanhf3SOmqT1AMwRoMlFrXvPPHsYj3tIPMVlv5BZu835ujEIwMHqUfXpvzNxrhSaZTC3bwmkkyRbTjo89EDvq0KIuIfRXNg-SB/s320/Zen.jpg" /></a> I finished the Buddah - that took the better part of a weekend, I'm not sure why it gave me so much trouble - added some of the "stones" in the water section, and started the fill-in of the center - lots of Rhodes stitches and Algerian eyelets. It will be on the frame today and tomorrow and I am aiming to finish the center fill-in and maybe add some beads. Chatelaines can be very heavily beaded, like all those swirls around the sandy center, so I add the Delica beads as I go, so I'm not facing days or weeks of beading at the end. I'll roll a piece of quilt batting or sometimes a tea towel into the top scroll bar to keep them from damaging the fabric - if I use a tea towel it also provides a nice dust cover for my stitching.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This weekend is also March's <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAsusjbCBh5kjY4o79rBMcgm-HmqRjRx2VtXq8Cg_2Cb-G9ZFZCa6S2PPAFnr6gyHleUAYDrD63EmAeZLCiGv1xnqvEwdirbOdty4k7j_peFD5oFrdosNE-bEiw00ov0y0Nfj-_6fHo4Aj/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="135" data-original-width="130" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAsusjbCBh5kjY4o79rBMcgm-HmqRjRx2VtXq8Cg_2Cb-G9ZFZCa6S2PPAFnr6gyHleUAYDrD63EmAeZLCiGv1xnqvEwdirbOdty4k7j_peFD5oFrdosNE-bEiw00ov0y0Nfj-_6fHo4Aj/w193-h200/image.png" width="193" /></a> What is IHSW? It happens on the third full weekend of each month and is permission for you to take time for yourself and stitch while knowing stitchers around the world are doing the same thing. No set amount of time, no minimum or maximum number of stitches, no specific project, just stitch when you can from your Friday to your Sunday night. You can participate in blogland or the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/757401391130415/announcements">Facebook</a> group. As I mentioned, Zen will be on the frame today and tomorrow. Sunday I'll fill in leaves on <i>Temperature Tree</i> and then work on my secret stitching piece. Once that piece is done, I'll spin the "what next" wheel for my rest of the month stitch.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have also been knitting and crocheting but I keep forgetting to take pictures. While I'm not working on it right now, I did rip out what I had on my Heavy Metal Shawl. I just wasn't happy with how it was working up - I did get a new needle - a Hiya Hiya Sharp (my favorites) - so am hoping that will make some difference when I start it again.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hope everyone is well and has a chance to hermit and stitch this weekend.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><p></p><br /><p><br /></p><p></p>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-9732017292045303212021-03-06T11:33:00.005-05:002021-03-06T11:33:30.076-05:00Well, that was rougher than I thoughtAs a just-in-case, if you can, take at least the day after your second COVID vaccine off from work <strike>housework</strike> <strike>just being human</strike> - I sailed through my first one with a sore arm and about a week later very swollen lymph nodes on the shot side <i>lemme tell ya', <b>that</b> scared the pants off me! Got to the CDC's website to see if it was a side effect of the vaccine - yes in about 11% of the cases (and mostly women report it - I wonder if that's because we're so attuned due to self-exams and mammograms or if it really is more common in women) and can take two to six weeks to go away. PHEW!!!. </i>Anyway, figured the same for the second. HAH! Within hours, arm pain. Then the flu-like symptoms hit - for me body/joint aches, fatigue and a fever. Suffice it to say I was fully down for the count for one day and just so "blah" on the second as to have been useless. I woke up this morning feeling just fine and yes, the last two days were worth it. <b>None</b> of the stories should keep you from having the vaccine because your mileage will vary - the nurse that did my shot said she had a slight headache and The Hubs had a sore arm - just be prepared for the possibility of side effects. <div><br /></div><div>So stitching:</div><div><br /></div><div><div><i>Japanese Zen Garden </i>from Chatelaine was at the very end of its rotation time when I last posted. When I put it away it was here:</div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX4-lOtZarCweM5ATEZOq1RAnzOUe3JiiO4pW2-cRTi9pnNdZZIe-ODOYa_AMqs1i2DOTucuIu9poWfhd7SIGyhShRNqtzYzkYnmV5Lon_bhBDojX_dDQOZ8ZG2aWEFfPGjEikEtCLxGgJ/s2048/Zen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX4-lOtZarCweM5ATEZOq1RAnzOUe3JiiO4pW2-cRTi9pnNdZZIe-ODOYa_AMqs1i2DOTucuIu9poWfhd7SIGyhShRNqtzYzkYnmV5Lon_bhBDojX_dDQOZ8ZG2aWEFfPGjEikEtCLxGgJ/s320/Zen.jpg" /></a></div>I finished the stitching in the lower right corner and some of the backstitching in both corners and, fixed a Kreinik error in the upper corner - used the wrong color - and started the Buddha representation in the right center. I'm doing it one over one so it really doesn't look like much right now. All in all, not bad progress during the rotation.<div><br /></div><div>I then pulled out <i>Temperature Tree </i>by Stitchin' Mommy and got it to here:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkgJqdx60RR7KT9dMip1xxwWkdpnOpuIEO05TcjAWz36oZ4bDRXCzMT6kme_ySwzYYRQeIljznKk3XOKGqn3vQD3KLKGvdWVScGjSqXHwrix2a5FPtslekBXCnp3H9t6ZFWCsmIvK3KRRw/s2048/Temperature+Tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkgJqdx60RR7KT9dMip1xxwWkdpnOpuIEO05TcjAWz36oZ4bDRXCzMT6kme_ySwzYYRQeIljznKk3XOKGqn3vQD3KLKGvdWVScGjSqXHwrix2a5FPtslekBXCnp3H9t6ZFWCsmIvK3KRRw/s320/Temperature+Tree.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>It is done through February 22nd. The January 31st leaf used a color that didn't show up in 2020's tree at all - for the 32 to 35 F range - and it was used in four leaves in February. The next three leaves in February will show the end of winter at my house. We may get a cold day or two, like this weekend, but we won't have any more extended cold snaps.</div><div><br /></div><div>After I finished working on the tree, I started a new piece, but as it's a gift and I'm not sure if the person it's for reads this, so I'll hold off showing it until it's been gifted. I will say, it's a small, I'm about half done, there's an awful lot of stitching for a small, and I have thoroughly enjoyed working on it.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Goldie </i>went back on the frame Monday of this week and I put in 362 stitches that evening. I was watching a lecture series put on by the Oxford University Museum of Natural History on early life and was not paying as much attention to my stitching as I should have been because Tuesday, I spent most of my stitching time frogging... For her, I'll show a before and after...</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZSFMPrMRBcXO3iUkq82RKLEjV67aVXZ_UnLhgxZ5ef8rBIbPyCuJLWu7u0WZn6iKemVzSbScX7JU0h4SPOrBus-vmcFiF455HkL4elc34_W2l2S4HtS0pE0o-2TvMZ6YoPE7Bzlmk9KQq/s2048/Goldie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZSFMPrMRBcXO3iUkq82RKLEjV67aVXZ_UnLhgxZ5ef8rBIbPyCuJLWu7u0WZn6iKemVzSbScX7JU0h4SPOrBus-vmcFiF455HkL4elc34_W2l2S4HtS0pE0o-2TvMZ6YoPE7Bzlmk9KQq/w200-h200/Goldie.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia-4rW7fG1X6XHhEdrACCNp44iMUHVBBwyFiTQDIo-L-jQ0dhRSOICzm44bGnwX3d65-XstMKbjeRH3fowCmcKGXnIW_o7YiL76pou2U6m122DYM01RdomKy5IGnHIXnSCn8lv_uFXxKHv/s2048/Goldie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia-4rW7fG1X6XHhEdrACCNp44iMUHVBBwyFiTQDIo-L-jQ0dhRSOICzm44bGnwX3d65-XstMKbjeRH3fowCmcKGXnIW_o7YiL76pou2U6m122DYM01RdomKy5IGnHIXnSCn8lv_uFXxKHv/w200-h200/Goldie.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Today</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>You can see the ghost of some of the ripping in the lower right. The ghost area and the stitching to the immediate left of it in the "Before" picture is what was ripped. There's still a bit to put back and I hope to get that done today. As I missed three evenings of stitching, there won't be as much progress as previous month's.</div><div><br /></div><div>I almost forgot - I have a check-in for <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf3B6TFZ16OyJDsHQ3Xu_BpGlUYvCqarKJDpGz3AL86xo2jASPZ41Q5bfg_hPR8SwW0p0DuVCSSX3QG7P7XLLajZV7TRdJ7eM7N5ACLjiY1ug2uymItqT7Q2N-SWhHlLQKxoVN8sKvsrlG/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="240" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf3B6TFZ16OyJDsHQ3Xu_BpGlUYvCqarKJDpGz3AL86xo2jASPZ41Q5bfg_hPR8SwW0p0DuVCSSX3QG7P7XLLajZV7TRdJ7eM7N5ACLjiY1ug2uymItqT7Q2N-SWhHlLQKxoVN8sKvsrlG/" width="240" /></a>. WIPocalypse provides us with some incentive to finish up those WIPs we might have hanging around. Melissa at Measi's Musings is our host and all the information can be found <a href="http://measi.net/measiblog/wipocalypse_main/2021-wipocalypse-info/">here</a>. Zen and Goldie are my WIPocalypse pieces this year, but it's a flexible SAL so I can add as I need. There's a one-month challenge going on this month, but as I missed three days of stitching, I'll wait for the next one. Also, if you're participating in other focus SALs, you can count all of that towards your WIPocalypse month challenge. Melissa also gives us writing cues each month and February's was: What SALs are you participating in this year? I loosely participate in several. I say loosely as I seldom make the posting deadline <i>like this one</i> or forget about it but do it anyway <i>like IHSW - International Hermit and Stitch Weekend</i> but I am trying to get better at each of those things. So this year, I am trying to keep up with WIPocalypse, <a href="https://serendipitousstitching.blogspot.com/p/gifted-gorgeousness-2021-sign-up-page.html">Gifted Gorgeousness </a>hosted by Jo at Serendipitous Stitching, and <a href="https://joysze.blogspot.com/p/international-hermit-and-stitch-weekend.html">International Hermit and Stitch Weekend</a>. I'm also trying to keep up with <a href="https://itsdaffycat.blogspot.com/2018/01/a-totally-useless-stitch-long.html">TUSAL </a>(Totally Useless SAL). I would love to join other SALs but it's still so up in the air as to when they'll start wanting us back in the office, I hate to commit to more and then fall flat as that is totally demoralizing.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I had more to show than I thought, hopefully that keeps up.</div><div><br /></div><div>See you in a couple weeks.</div><div><br /></div>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-65085372123349280602021-02-19T14:11:00.002-05:002021-02-19T14:11:45.671-05:00Start of winter<p> So, in my last post, I said February was either the end of winter or just the start - this year it's just the start. Like most of you, storms have lined up with little respite in between. Unlike many of you, it hasn't been Arctic cold (although much colder than average) and we haven't yet lost power (although we were as prepared as we could be in case we did). The latest winter storm warning has been lifted and it looks like we'll warm up into the high 30s F for the next couple of days so the ice should all melt off before the next storm hits on Monday.</p><p>The birds have been mobbing the feeders all week. Most of them are seed eaters and the ice has covered all the grasses they rely on through the winter. No unusual sightings this week, but a couple of robins (American robins are in the thrush family while European robins are in the flycatcher family so same name/different birds) are hopping around in the yard right now. They will appreciate a bit of a thaw.</p><p>Before we get to the making, I have been very remiss in showing pictures of this young lady:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYiU7j-soPj-EL6Pa54pLpV9TKX4Y_-3srANgkUmJ6vVS6VPCmEBWw3RGaPcrxtBJYACXoMdl7jXToLbRyHum0oZ417euuRcnaWqFaW_4H81L4csm7U1Ywl07Wwv1h8QfnKhN3XsI0pHyq/s991/Cassie.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="991" data-original-width="742" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYiU7j-soPj-EL6Pa54pLpV9TKX4Y_-3srANgkUmJ6vVS6VPCmEBWw3RGaPcrxtBJYACXoMdl7jXToLbRyHum0oZ417euuRcnaWqFaW_4H81L4csm7U1Ywl07Wwv1h8QfnKhN3XsI0pHyq/s320/Cassie.PNG" /></a></div>Cassie is almost 8 months old now and is a very happy, smiley little girl. She is also very much a little night owl. Although today she seemed to be much more of a morning lark - I guess there's just too much going on for her to miss any of it. <p></p><p>Sooo, making happened and it all aligns with the two SALs that I'm also doing check-ins for. </p><p>First, the easiest SAL you'll ever participate in <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhixuT0-g7wAtSk5Ws5ZwBhUV3EsLJAr2qyXrpZtc7F7gxtdVSg6MqSz8_TPuE4m7V3Ea9rLGYDqbGizRe9gotJ2rgyd752nSziAaFKQLCG01Qf7MfVZ0b62GxT1524lZv2LQ2jyVEPmPKl/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="53" data-original-width="145" height="73" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhixuT0-g7wAtSk5Ws5ZwBhUV3EsLJAr2qyXrpZtc7F7gxtdVSg6MqSz8_TPuE4m7V3Ea9rLGYDqbGizRe9gotJ2rgyd752nSziAaFKQLCG01Qf7MfVZ0b62GxT1524lZv2LQ2jyVEPmPKl/w200-h73/image.png" width="200" /></a> <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 14.85px;">TUSAL is hosted by Sharon at </span><a href="https://itsdaffycat.blogspot.com/2021/02/totally-useless-weather-forecast.html" style="background-color: white; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 14.85px; text-decoration-line: none;">It's Daffycat</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Cambria; font-size: 14.85px;"> (clicking there should take you to February's post). If you want a no stress event, this one's for you. If you craft there are always little bits of leftovers. Save them up in a container rather than tossing them (or wearing them to work on your pants) and every month on the new moon (I said "full moon" in my last post - sorry for any confusion), post a picture and then link over to the check-in post. Here's the bits I've generated since the beginning of the year:</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy13_Qay-LkL1D86zBzP5S9NP8UCN-8CjuGVAcoiBHNJ1OtbLrvRw8o-vq4tOEwySRjLbhG9Z2jQ-UiyAO9ivX_bvHebjMt-Zj29PyzvQpT5c3RzYwOXI-chMPzCJxeAATprOlHolcT_m-/s2048/TUSAL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy13_Qay-LkL1D86zBzP5S9NP8UCN-8CjuGVAcoiBHNJ1OtbLrvRw8o-vq4tOEwySRjLbhG9Z2jQ-UiyAO9ivX_bvHebjMt-Zj29PyzvQpT5c3RzYwOXI-chMPzCJxeAATprOlHolcT_m-/w200-h200/TUSAL.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />My actual stitching fits perfectly into <a href="https://serendipitousstitching.blogspot.com/p/gifted-gorgeousness-2021-sign-up-page.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="193" data-original-width="200" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXVHTJQyPEM3Txrojzmr5nn3S_uqzXo2XOhtxAnOrIqdus9hTIPd-pwCmOjrLbizUfzGfutQkW2NBj1wokfeNEQwF7WgqKJIOkk2UnV_nlnsekQJpJCPwQ6f_rCuVVv_Bz33swfFKcz1lj/w200-h193/image.png" width="200" /></a> Gifted Gorgeousness is hosted by Jo at <a href="https://serendipitousstitching.blogspot.com/">Serendipitous Stitching</a>. It is the perfect way to say "thank you" to people that have given you stitching goodness or to highlight gifts you are stitching or show stitching that you can shoehorn into the theme. Stitch, take a picture and post around the 15th of each month. Jo said she keeps the check-in open through the end of the month so plenty of time to get your check-in done. My two focus pieces fit the SAL perfectly <i>Goldie </i>and <i>Japanese Zen Garden.</i><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i>Goldie</i> was charted by <a href="https://heavenandearthdesigns.com/index.php?main_page=index">Heaven and Earth Designs</a> from a picture my SIL took of my in-law's dog and will be a Christmas gift some year for the in-laws.</div><div><br /></div><div>In my last post she was here <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAU7pqAQfqB3XyQgCtRIK8vBNBKrogX2JHtvNUm-xXehGl8jPCWrANj1RXle7s6SP4sD1sSFRxq32xRlgltZKniMJ9b8BXgttXdChu-JZzZDtwrPJa3YR4g6iQPIGzg_YwrjOSdi4MnPJv/s2048/Goldie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAU7pqAQfqB3XyQgCtRIK8vBNBKrogX2JHtvNUm-xXehGl8jPCWrANj1RXle7s6SP4sD1sSFRxq32xRlgltZKniMJ9b8BXgttXdChu-JZzZDtwrPJa3YR4g6iQPIGzg_YwrjOSdi4MnPJv/w200-h200/Goldie.jpg" width="200" /></a>and now she's here</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh89nnKVU2VeKgJaSqrEY9HDAWhIvzguc1R8vTYRvev-VudS9x10e4Pvr_SuQFt_qD84KKzY1pw36gZYKyz23gds73mlhrqsP0PC3lCni7PHdgjKryRNp1wk3m02pAVYvl8AssCmKN-ATTD/s2048/Goldie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh89nnKVU2VeKgJaSqrEY9HDAWhIvzguc1R8vTYRvev-VudS9x10e4Pvr_SuQFt_qD84KKzY1pw36gZYKyz23gds73mlhrqsP0PC3lCni7PHdgjKryRNp1wk3m02pAVYvl8AssCmKN-ATTD/s320/Goldie.jpg" /></a></div>I decided that as there was miles and miles of blue stitching once her head was finished that I would complete one color in the head and then do one or two lengths of blue. I am afraid that if all I have left is all that blue, I'll stall out and I really would like to get this finished sooner than later. She's done on 28-count antique white Monaco with DMC - 1 over 1 with full crosses.<div><br /></div><div>The next piece is <i>Japanese Zen Moss Garden</i> by <a href="https://chatelaine.de/">Chatelaine</a>. This will be my son's when it's done. When I finished in January, it was here <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKFiNpHrzHTZ0dAr5jO9Hcl66r-gk_lSyHHek7jR4xsJwrfqZvPvzoiKc2m_lMk8DkJXTXDHreq3AX5DBPCtFq26xID86qbOPgdXvpQWepSc_jYlWvgh-D_bmZhUcUqyia9cfEMfwwGHX6/s2048/Zen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKFiNpHrzHTZ0dAr5jO9Hcl66r-gk_lSyHHek7jR4xsJwrfqZvPvzoiKc2m_lMk8DkJXTXDHreq3AX5DBPCtFq26xID86qbOPgdXvpQWepSc_jYlWvgh-D_bmZhUcUqyia9cfEMfwwGHX6/w200-h200/Zen.jpg" width="200" /></a> and today it's here</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSZczRVQRHR8q9tzx7pkfCg_-_6yB1Ef-mY-TegfJa_lkxGaoFlHRao-aAeCd4FRVUzPPMqgIJIovgzcD4gjHGVgQKoImm6LxppFYVH5g5sXQaLsNl5oNB2cbjVQTPgXSzAkQRmv2wqLEF/s2048/Zen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSZczRVQRHR8q9tzx7pkfCg_-_6yB1Ef-mY-TegfJa_lkxGaoFlHRao-aAeCd4FRVUzPPMqgIJIovgzcD4gjHGVgQKoImm6LxppFYVH5g5sXQaLsNl5oNB2cbjVQTPgXSzAkQRmv2wqLEF/s320/Zen.jpg" /></a></div><div>I'm stitching this on 32-count Summer Sky Jobelan with Martina's DMC conversion (except for a couple of threads that didn't have a good substitute) and the called for PTB and beads. I was making very slow progress on this one. I thought it was just a lighting issue, but it ended up being a magnification issue (guess 32-count is now my limit with my current glasses). I moved my magnifier over and things are now moving along nicely (after I fixed all the miscounts). Zen is on the frame through tomorrow. </div><div><br /></div><div>Even my knitting falls into Gifted Gorgeousness as this is for Baby W. I was not happy with the way the blanket was looking so I ripped it out and started again. I am much happier now. Here is the whole blanket<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbhMOqUXoWcAkCdW_03WCgbcP_uagyeA65gmfaLVGrj2VsvGpLYsnXh0RJ7k0J-aOxt2Muou5N7MoBKHmknDz_IM5066IcXS0JG7VMvsG4sYdZQ4dQziso28qkDkIQu5hj4DyMKHQkXJ_/s2048/Baby+Blanket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbhMOqUXoWcAkCdW_03WCgbcP_uagyeA65gmfaLVGrj2VsvGpLYsnXh0RJ7k0J-aOxt2Muou5N7MoBKHmknDz_IM5066IcXS0JG7VMvsG4sYdZQ4dQziso28qkDkIQu5hj4DyMKHQkXJ_/w200-h150/Baby+Blanket.jpg" width="200" /></a> and here is a closer look <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDFEU-hb2DCqL7EiNNwds36uMcdPN98BBCELi_ZFgyTEhYHdyw6lJQkQHx04js3a8GH9nVqamX2WC51icSScc90ps_LZfG8DxUAnou5PW3HzC9b4jRi29YwgOprDMCvhDFTy7izuna0k1h/s2048/Blanket+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDFEU-hb2DCqL7EiNNwds36uMcdPN98BBCELi_ZFgyTEhYHdyw6lJQkQHx04js3a8GH9nVqamX2WC51icSScc90ps_LZfG8DxUAnou5PW3HzC9b4jRi29YwgOprDMCvhDFTy7izuna0k1h/s320/Blanket+2.jpg" width="320" /></a> I have some work to do on uniformity but I suppose an individual bubble won't show up in the hundreds (thousands?) that will be in the finished blanket. This is three full repeats of the pattern, so only 20 more to go.</div><div><br /></div><div>As I mentioned, Zen is on the frame until tomorrow. I hope to finish the corner bit and maybe do some of the specialty stitches in the center before it goes away until next month. <i>Temperature Tree </i>by Stitchin' Mommy will be going on the frame Sunday. I hope to finish the branches and get caught up with the leaves fairly early in the "leftover" days in February. I'll spin the wheel of projects to fill in the rest of the time.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hope you are all well, safe and warm.</div>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-1081131598443720222021-02-05T12:35:00.004-05:002021-02-05T12:35:46.698-05:00A tree grows in Virginia<p> January certainly flew by and February has fully taken hold. February in central Virginia is a very iffy month. It's either the end of winter or just the start of it. This year it seems like it's just the start. We had snow last week, the forecast is for snow on Sunday and then for it to get cold (well cold for here). February is also "that" month - even though it's short it's terribly long BUT now we have a bright note. This guy<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnC2Efy_x_ohZIQ5-pbtj8g3eo2HxiX_17FU4ggimFrqmIi_jemt6ra8mcY8C4Knu0MZL0W7Mo5MCDyoIyQ0vw-SPLpqSd1SP3eDYgxA5AzWuejUS00fS0YY2LIMy-v-_42PaNf-fkAxMX/s649/Grady.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="511" data-original-width="649" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnC2Efy_x_ohZIQ5-pbtj8g3eo2HxiX_17FU4ggimFrqmIi_jemt6ra8mcY8C4Knu0MZL0W7Mo5MCDyoIyQ0vw-SPLpqSd1SP3eDYgxA5AzWuejUS00fS0YY2LIMy-v-_42PaNf-fkAxMX/s320/Grady.jpg" width="320" /></a>. Doesn't seem possible but Grady celebrated his first birthday this week. He began his celebration by starting to walk and topped it off with a delicious mess <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9AWtcxQ2a_rKtQzvWdAlL7QOMU7JtVFOoCCmiUN6luwf9MTG6kYwl5zF08CAXWUrlexdXtj1iXm8dnio4xgEc0VGXfmxxsF3vWf_u41BfqqOa0qIFtkGDWPWVaMRwB0kBrsZGKBIsYEP7/s1203/Grady+Birthday.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1203" data-original-width="740" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9AWtcxQ2a_rKtQzvWdAlL7QOMU7JtVFOoCCmiUN6luwf9MTG6kYwl5zF08CAXWUrlexdXtj1iXm8dnio4xgEc0VGXfmxxsF3vWf_u41BfqqOa0qIFtkGDWPWVaMRwB0kBrsZGKBIsYEP7/s320/Grady+Birthday.PNG" /></a>. Hopefully we can get things under control and I can get over to see him in person soon. I didn't get to visit but I did make him a "card":</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirqg9vWBnWTSG0TFiGh41v4IBrweW1OEpIQfYkpWM4cNkl4gK5iu-1W072DIHrQWzuUtyPVjo8J9m9vmgZPLrsvY8nwo_jfqC7hDWwTo-kU1A3dwRC6zsOKv3QvctbiaLn9SRiDxIK1WT1/s2048/card1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirqg9vWBnWTSG0TFiGh41v4IBrweW1OEpIQfYkpWM4cNkl4gK5iu-1W072DIHrQWzuUtyPVjo8J9m9vmgZPLrsvY8nwo_jfqC7hDWwTo-kU1A3dwRC6zsOKv3QvctbiaLn9SRiDxIK1WT1/w200-h200/card1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><p>When you take off the roof you see: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPRquYVUV7_c9nKjq-JeGOkRzlpP9W9lwVj4G0WvS-_3NBRY-zlMg_ynrOcHt0QgHbS4FrFD_5lbUUpfkjslyClh5EMzLnxLkMnDkYw8fesQilW6IZdyIpnm1mPdu5mpLpg9CXCoot_0-4/s2048/card4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPRquYVUV7_c9nKjq-JeGOkRzlpP9W9lwVj4G0WvS-_3NBRY-zlMg_ynrOcHt0QgHbS4FrFD_5lbUUpfkjslyClh5EMzLnxLkMnDkYw8fesQilW6IZdyIpnm1mPdu5mpLpg9CXCoot_0-4/w200-h200/card4.jpg" width="200" /></a> and in the center<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRA0Pp4Emsk4Plnn9R5gQWD1CoW6cABRF3KJnhf2mccvrgBd4cCXS1scraKWrE1p4ixXjNXmHPoECJq02nUqu_VkRUyABZQ3cOpSYTto0kL0XsXK5CPauVjBZOXqx6Vm2J4hr_3Vbd02wp/s2048/Card3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRA0Pp4Emsk4Plnn9R5gQWD1CoW6cABRF3KJnhf2mccvrgBd4cCXS1scraKWrE1p4ixXjNXmHPoECJq02nUqu_VkRUyABZQ3cOpSYTto0kL0XsXK5CPauVjBZOXqx6Vm2J4hr_3Vbd02wp/w200-h200/Card3.jpg" width="200" /></a> another dog - which is a vague approximation of his dog Winston.</p><p>With our move into late winter/early spring (maybe) we've had another shift in the birds. The goldfinches have returned in droves. I had almost 40 of them on the feeders the other day. There are also several pairs of cowbirds that came in last week - they are really early as I don't usually see them until late March. This morning there were two surprise visitors to the feeders <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXJ-WZpElwX1YZmtQ-SJkCKYnMW2RNFQDfhPXPqprBCxzUmId2tB8Rotd8QxvYn_ENpnfd4Rf8dFU8CAUVDXwfWiYooMrTvI9xDEuLSc1onW3ZgOFsqi4N2kYPtSFvsJJtcGl5zmvCbebz/s2048/Evening+Grosbeaks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXJ-WZpElwX1YZmtQ-SJkCKYnMW2RNFQDfhPXPqprBCxzUmId2tB8Rotd8QxvYn_ENpnfd4Rf8dFU8CAUVDXwfWiYooMrTvI9xDEuLSc1onW3ZgOFsqi4N2kYPtSFvsJJtcGl5zmvCbebz/w150-h200/Evening+Grosbeaks.jpg" width="150" /></a>They're hard to see, but it is two male <a href="https://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/evening-grosbeak">Evening Grosbeak</a>(click the name to go to the Audubon Field Guide entry). They visited the feeders when I lived in New Hampshire but have never seen them here. In looking at various maps, I am in the "nonbreeding scarce" area which explains why my Merlin bird app didn't bring them up as a choice when I tried to enter seeing them. Not sure if these two are just on a road trip or if it's a statement about the weather in southern Canada and the northern US.</p><p>I don't suppose you stopped by to read about birds or birthdays or cards did you? So my post title - Rather than spin the wheel of projects, I decided to start my 2021 Temperature Tree for the last January rotation slot. There is nothing to show as a start but I did get to here:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg701o-cL3mVC85BS5So7Z3WDlYX1dwitnosievFZcmNW02f5vLGCuOCCIYby2bklV8xN6nsd-G1FC2Ia0fFoZ-EqKpQIBD9zB353WwORrw635Zwy-IQdpEpaoX4zDMyv8YCkKGunta4GFG/s2048/Temperature+Tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg701o-cL3mVC85BS5So7Z3WDlYX1dwitnosievFZcmNW02f5vLGCuOCCIYby2bklV8xN6nsd-G1FC2Ia0fFoZ-EqKpQIBD9zB353WwORrw635Zwy-IQdpEpaoX4zDMyv8YCkKGunta4GFG/s320/Temperature+Tree.jpg" /></a></div>I probably could have finished the tree but I had a couple of nights when stitching was not lighting any fires. I'm very happy with the progress I made and will make this my February rotation project too. It won't take the entire ten days so will spin the wheel of projects once this is done. This is done on 18-count Fiddler's Aida in Lite Oatmeal with DMCs. The fabric is MUCH lighter than shown. I can't wait to get to the leaves and compare them to last year's.<div><br /></div><div>On those nights when stitching didn't call to me, knitting did and I started the baby blanket for the expected addition.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLVsFh7AI2or6-682TxA1yS9UlT3QReb8dmT1WOWTHlsX93MwSMZZeEWC7G2m-bX9OX3cXgHWKSYjWLwW8xALAfzt2B768gmK3atvkcKZiNHB04mxJO1CKoiFRPsD0m15TnSDtpstFEBCa/s2048/Baby+Blanket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLVsFh7AI2or6-682TxA1yS9UlT3QReb8dmT1WOWTHlsX93MwSMZZeEWC7G2m-bX9OX3cXgHWKSYjWLwW8xALAfzt2B768gmK3atvkcKZiNHB04mxJO1CKoiFRPsD0m15TnSDtpstFEBCa/w150-h200/Baby+Blanket.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><br /><div>This is the first row of actual pattern (I have done a second set of the bobbles but forgot to take a picture). I made a counting error in this row so the bobbles didn't line up for the second set of bobbles, but I think they will line up after that. The pattern is <i>Puffed Baby Blanket. </i>It's a freebie from Plymouth Yarns. The yarn is Baby Soft DK from Lion Brand in the Twinkle Print colorway. This is the most stereotypically baby of the baby blankets I've made but I really like it.</div><div><br /></div><div>After Temperature Tree came off the frame, it was time for Goldie to go back on. She's gone from here:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiqFxEW4oXfQ4xOqJu52pyFklkRizqW0o2EMvRXUcxAUmLNUAVGHCl3dARAjOqPepqhs7PTg80G726q5pUwE_6Dlhzmy1HDXYHCN3z80vws7uoxvZhyphenhyphenNwbMFeewAln3yVWsrLuZT_QxbGR/s2048/Goldie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiqFxEW4oXfQ4xOqJu52pyFklkRizqW0o2EMvRXUcxAUmLNUAVGHCl3dARAjOqPepqhs7PTg80G726q5pUwE_6Dlhzmy1HDXYHCN3z80vws7uoxvZhyphenhyphenNwbMFeewAln3yVWsrLuZT_QxbGR/s320/Goldie.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>to here:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnjCZfKCenilbFg9OYuoLET3CzgpepHQ5H10-4UwO_eOjFNMgaRFq-9efV1r-xtV2u2CmeGorQtzJ1wTpBSya3Ur31hBXyWd4aDBdVWsagIUJf4Rpf8xtKRxR_3c80NqQPpvJhNkZV0Ewr/s2048/Goldie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnjCZfKCenilbFg9OYuoLET3CzgpepHQ5H10-4UwO_eOjFNMgaRFq-9efV1r-xtV2u2CmeGorQtzJ1wTpBSya3Ur31hBXyWd4aDBdVWsagIUJf4Rpf8xtKRxR_3c80NqQPpvJhNkZV0Ewr/s320/Goldie.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>She's done on 28-count Monaco one over one with the called for DMC. She's on the frame until Wednesday the 10th so I am hoping to finish her head. </div><div><br /></div><div>Now that I have figured out the pattern repeats, I have been working on Habitation throw during Teams meetings and webinars. I have used three full 10 gram skeins and a bit of a fourth so far. </div><div><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1gBO9WtBpL8a-l12Kqg5_UU61e-QS9-HUGwxU-bHpxM4BMTBqQqxuFwuPl-189p_iZSIkoEP6YmCeUeKQ2qmpc1jRVcH_qJYHaM7h8u_dGEDU5guY7T5PCTUZusMudj0rko7Ag-YxtKkS/s2048/Habitation+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1gBO9WtBpL8a-l12Kqg5_UU61e-QS9-HUGwxU-bHpxM4BMTBqQqxuFwuPl-189p_iZSIkoEP6YmCeUeKQ2qmpc1jRVcH_qJYHaM7h8u_dGEDU5guY7T5PCTUZusMudj0rko7Ag-YxtKkS/s320/Habitation+.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colors from right to left:</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> Smeagol, Real Elvish Rope, Don't Follow the Lights and a little bit of What Do Your Elf Eyes See?</div><div><div style="text-align: center;">from Bumblebee Acres' 2020 Lord of the Rings Advent Calendar. All in their squishy sock base.</div><div><p>Those two padlock looking things are holding dropped stitches - of course they're in the border and it's an i-cord border so I will have to do some work to figure out how to fix them - and also marking the front of the throw.</p><p>I'm off to do some housework, order groceries and then spend some quality time with Goldie.</p><p>Hope you are all doing well. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><br /><p><br /></p></div></div>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-5300264457118756172021-01-22T12:24:00.003-05:002021-01-22T12:24:22.523-05:00Early for some, late for others<p> The one thing I didn't take into account when I came up with my brilliant blogging plan was SAL check-ins. In an effort to get back into regular blogging, I decided to keep my schedule and just be okay with being late for some check-ins and early for others. Once I get myself back into a blogging routine, I'll think about working in the check-ins on, or at least close to, their actual dates.</p><p>We had another small Christmas celebration yesterday - the box from my mom reached it's destination safe and sound (and it only took a month - those ponies are getting faster every year!). It was actually rather nice to open the gifts outside of the hustle and bustle that seems to define Christmas anymore. As usual I was spoiled - thanks Mom!! - with a cute shirt and necklace, yummy candy, a very generous gift card and two very nice additions to my stash:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwPeUea0ZoVZg3paxL9HieZM6AVqtHVbCGIBRBtnBKY-ZuMyBs2jYsaSfh6kEwgK65g1fxVa2aBFR9e34NG_VmTO5dFF0FKQpmK7ZfdF4JiC0tuRrm87rUaA1DFLMxmGA9LlWerx2TiWQr/s2048/Christmas+gift.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwPeUea0ZoVZg3paxL9HieZM6AVqtHVbCGIBRBtnBKY-ZuMyBs2jYsaSfh6kEwgK65g1fxVa2aBFR9e34NG_VmTO5dFF0FKQpmK7ZfdF4JiC0tuRrm87rUaA1DFLMxmGA9LlWerx2TiWQr/s320/Christmas+gift.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div>These are <i>For Ewe</i> from Teresa Kogut (isn't that sheep adorable?) and <i>Stained Glass Christmas</i> from Ink Circles. And yes, those are the threads and fabric (there is enough fabric to do all four ornaments in addition to the sheep). Looking at the picture makes me want to start them all.<div><br /></div><div>The first SAL check-in that I'm late for is <br /><br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmGzgs2kXUykdvo2TYypLrBRvgHwPvYayc_iZqxQX_msTwCqKk3KGM44Et4vTOuCDP9GtGnazRB1hn1R8o5YpkDfDRTEVGGvoDXlbMCF-w9vjWqwwYS8Y9jEgge9jQfNMlpbQPN8o2ocL4/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="53" data-original-width="145" height="73" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmGzgs2kXUykdvo2TYypLrBRvgHwPvYayc_iZqxQX_msTwCqKk3KGM44Et4vTOuCDP9GtGnazRB1hn1R8o5YpkDfDRTEVGGvoDXlbMCF-w9vjWqwwYS8Y9jEgge9jQfNMlpbQPN8o2ocL4/w200-h73/image.png" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">TUSAL is hosted by Sharon at <a href="https://itsdaffycat.blogspot.com/2021/01/the-totally-useless-stitch-long-2021.html">It's Daffycat</a> (clicking there should take you to January's post). If you want a no stress event, this one's for you. If you craft there are always little bits of leftovers that you normally just bin, well, save them up in a container - it doesn't have to be pretty I use a repurposed Yankee Candle jar - and every month on the full moon, post a picture and then link over to the check-in post. Here's my jar on December 31st:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimWbL98BTivSlMDOwYfs8AQ7_o5IqKlPF6ZB-ccGhJ8xQ9V32rt6RQqUKrtEL0t1-pMIHSXNldCpx6zotaxhIWOGyTyq9qjs0i1l4sxrvQtPJ5GAQFcBj6QtRC6b5nha5VcIgAgpRUHXXu/s2048/2020+Ort+Jar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimWbL98BTivSlMDOwYfs8AQ7_o5IqKlPF6ZB-ccGhJ8xQ9V32rt6RQqUKrtEL0t1-pMIHSXNldCpx6zotaxhIWOGyTyq9qjs0i1l4sxrvQtPJ5GAQFcBj6QtRC6b5nha5VcIgAgpRUHXXu/s320/2020+Ort+Jar.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">and here's where it was last night:</div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxREdtZr8HpDm3wf7BGNC3Lxx3U7gTB7Iac3Zp4FdF11JRshBAMfbQsjSlX3xvWYj6bYqGtLfNwQfNfJ6xTWcUm9JGWo_0ZOJNKsG8hVBVzZtM3vjFw_Fpew0gpibO_W2nLZu0tinqq7C1/s2048/TUSAL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxREdtZr8HpDm3wf7BGNC3Lxx3U7gTB7Iac3Zp4FdF11JRshBAMfbQsjSlX3xvWYj6bYqGtLfNwQfNfJ6xTWcUm9JGWo_0ZOJNKsG8hVBVzZtM3vjFw_Fpew0gpibO_W2nLZu0tinqq7C1/s320/TUSAL.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>Not a bad start, unfortunately, the majority is frog fuzz from a really silly counting error.</div><div><br /></div><div>The other two check-ins I'm late for are: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqF22VkSGJJj68R4pv9XtfjzSXYnqAn1ZpVi9Kzm92mTbvmLTbWzm-mjWyaTBT62hItkK4_UYOqE8Rx7z03y1d66NjXnTJ8aqYdkc-aZs3hFh8TQ5QF3SDerOiWHgOBy78N1lwMJwrFt5p/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="193" data-original-width="200" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqF22VkSGJJj68R4pv9XtfjzSXYnqAn1ZpVi9Kzm92mTbvmLTbWzm-mjWyaTBT62hItkK4_UYOqE8Rx7z03y1d66NjXnTJ8aqYdkc-aZs3hFh8TQ5QF3SDerOiWHgOBy78N1lwMJwrFt5p/w200-h193/image.png" width="200" /></a> and <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPF1ZNQQhY_GnSnr5U46AcSoKkP0j5mrNH4a6tOMJk2mqhOSdmyiYgSRHUGf_tLWkj8zTdsO_M9fzcykasewKV1b_9SHk2MOkL8pptDIHMn5QuEBc_EmrL56nVrDAarT6yS_ZyXNjQ95vt/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="135" data-original-width="130" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPF1ZNQQhY_GnSnr5U46AcSoKkP0j5mrNH4a6tOMJk2mqhOSdmyiYgSRHUGf_tLWkj8zTdsO_M9fzcykasewKV1b_9SHk2MOkL8pptDIHMn5QuEBc_EmrL56nVrDAarT6yS_ZyXNjQ95vt/w193-h200/image.png" width="193" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /><p><br /></p><p>I didn't officially participate in IHSW, so am just mentioning this one in case you're interested in participating. Clicking Hermie up top there will take you to description of the SAL, but essentially on the third full weekend of the month, clear your calendar of everything else and stitch! or clear a few minutes and stitch or stitch while you're doing something else. Basically take a little me time and enjoy your favorite hobby and post about either on Facebook or on your blog and then link up on the IHSW post at <a href="https://serendipitousstitching.blogspot.com/">Serendipitous Stitching</a>.</p><p><br /></p><p>My two focus pieces fit perfectly into<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqF22VkSGJJj68R4pv9XtfjzSXYnqAn1ZpVi9Kzm92mTbvmLTbWzm-mjWyaTBT62hItkK4_UYOqE8Rx7z03y1d66NjXnTJ8aqYdkc-aZs3hFh8TQ5QF3SDerOiWHgOBy78N1lwMJwrFt5p/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="193" data-original-width="200" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqF22VkSGJJj68R4pv9XtfjzSXYnqAn1ZpVi9Kzm92mTbvmLTbWzm-mjWyaTBT62hItkK4_UYOqE8Rx7z03y1d66NjXnTJ8aqYdkc-aZs3hFh8TQ5QF3SDerOiWHgOBy78N1lwMJwrFt5p/w200-h193/image.png" width="200" /></a> and are also on my <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG0JmCMCB8EPGPIcmu14elB1GdjdTwiG-qkrYmMl4P-UfGKOTJFbqnNBxcx90Vkkhha7so8m2ANi0XpqPfxzCUB6s22OnFzxnOvcK8_p99yqnbKsIuwKnwKHvHDw9_fyl925MP2sjhkMgb/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="240" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG0JmCMCB8EPGPIcmu14elB1GdjdTwiG-qkrYmMl4P-UfGKOTJFbqnNBxcx90Vkkhha7so8m2ANi0XpqPfxzCUB6s22OnFzxnOvcK8_p99yqnbKsIuwKnwKHvHDw9_fyl925MP2sjhkMgb/w200-h200/image.png" width="200" /></a> list so a two-fer check-in. Gifted Gorgeousness is hosted by Jo at Serendipitous Stitching and is a way to thank people that have given us stitching goodness by using the things they have given, show stitchy things that we're giving as gifts, or anything else you can shoehorn, no matter how loosely, into the theme. Stitch and post on the 15th or thereabouts of each month. WIPocalypse is hosted by Melissa at Measi's Musings and is a reminder that no matter how bright and shiny the new things are, your WIPs are just as bright and shiny and deserve attention too. Another stitch and post, but this time on the last Sunday of each month.</p><p>As I mentioned, I have two focus pieces and they fit into both of these SALs perfectly:</p><p>The first is <i>Goldie. </i>It is charted by Heaven and Earth Designs from a photograph taken by my SIL and will be a gift for my in-laws. She was here at the start of my rotation time:</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIDw7I25iuJs7sTziaRz7AHDADco_gL3ICycYP-3_6w729oddyj-v5j6ljLGa0CxJ6GbNakuucv-i8T8I_X1x_smrboSYJTiAZSayDSkW3wjuK5VM-lPdxqL1eGdPi9b5RJgD2yIRG2Qh_/s2048/Goldie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIDw7I25iuJs7sTziaRz7AHDADco_gL3ICycYP-3_6w729oddyj-v5j6ljLGa0CxJ6GbNakuucv-i8T8I_X1x_smrboSYJTiAZSayDSkW3wjuK5VM-lPdxqL1eGdPi9b5RJgD2yIRG2Qh_/w200-h200/Goldie.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">and at the end of her ten days, she was here:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiefARAgS_f2_L6cRfmaXXp-5tMEBJqADVHa886T8cMw2W6OqvtjC9nqvyawQKjDbevde7gtCEH0hMuI9rkpPB5m56l1fik2z_t7KJWjRohMXtIDzzw1mLJzi1eoL4vT4ZYT62tUOuFo43c/s2048/Goldie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiefARAgS_f2_L6cRfmaXXp-5tMEBJqADVHa886T8cMw2W6OqvtjC9nqvyawQKjDbevde7gtCEH0hMuI9rkpPB5m56l1fik2z_t7KJWjRohMXtIDzzw1mLJzi1eoL4vT4ZYT62tUOuFo43c/s320/Goldie.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I don't anticipate this much progress in future rotations, but there were holidays and days off so lots of extra stitching time. She's stitched on 28-count Antique White Monaco, 1 over 1 in DMC.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The next piece is <i>Japanese Zen Garden</i> by Chatelaine. I was just looking back through my posts and the last time I posted an update on this was July of 2018! Fortunately, my son is a patient person... Which is right at the midst of wedding stitching and right before baby stitching. I had a very hard time getting back into the rhythm of Chatelaine stitching, so not as much progress as I'd hoped but now that I've got it again, hopefully next month will be smoother and more productive. It was here when I picked it up again: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxfM2ajq_2HWMdAQkgk3hIbwFg-9YoSpR4in35Sk1Q5Ep0zXixISuamcnQIVwQetexE9lNkQaxTnugYpwzkHYalaT9CRuKsFZXTB9DHO4EcqF2LjEa-9LCXm63kHzKNQ-2pWXxlkRukla1/s2048/Zen.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxfM2ajq_2HWMdAQkgk3hIbwFg-9YoSpR4in35Sk1Q5Ep0zXixISuamcnQIVwQetexE9lNkQaxTnugYpwzkHYalaT9CRuKsFZXTB9DHO4EcqF2LjEa-9LCXm63kHzKNQ-2pWXxlkRukla1/s320/Zen.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">and here at the end of its ten days:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnO8rEKQTBwFsLJHbMe19c4QW_wZKrf79S0XR4vH1sL6KgyGXBElr2b0QTZs8ewzGeVS14M9nYsDYwo2-2r7YTLH95PR8NZRha1ebIV-3vTFbkAFfl1iWWYFLplkrsgqHc4CEUPfcvSbGn/s2048/Zen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnO8rEKQTBwFsLJHbMe19c4QW_wZKrf79S0XR4vH1sL6KgyGXBElr2b0QTZs8ewzGeVS14M9nYsDYwo2-2r7YTLH95PR8NZRha1ebIV-3vTFbkAFfl1iWWYFLplkrsgqHc4CEUPfcvSbGn/s320/Zen.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I started the specialty stitches in the center - I'd forgotten how much she loved her Jessica stitches - and worked on the water in the lower right corner. While I seldom question Martina's directions, the stone colored Rhodes stitches in the center are supposed to be backstitched "to provide definition", as they are stitched in a perle weight thread, it was just not an attractive look to me, so I left that out. This is on 32-count Summer Sky Jobelan using Martina's DMC conversion except for a couple of threads that didn't convert well and the called for beads and petite treasure braids.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Melissa always provides writing cues for WIPocalypse posts and this month's is: <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "Open Sans", Tahoma, Verdana, Segoe, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Tell us about a WIP on which you’ve really struggled to make progress. Explain its history. What appears to be the reason you’re struggling?</span></div><p>That's an easy question, I struggle with <u>all</u> my WIPs. I still love every single one of them and will finish every single one of them. The main reasons for struggling are: I LOVE big projects, the bigger the better: I do NOT stitch as fast as I think I do so I always underestimate how long something is going to take; this last year excepted, I don't have as much stitching time as I used to; and designers have really stepped their games up the last few years and I want all the new things and I want to start them all when I get them. Can you tell I've thought about this before? :-) I don't see any of these things changing soon so while I am focusing on finishing things, I've decided to be okay with having lots of WIPs right now. They will all be finished in their time and I am enjoying the journey with each of them.</p><p>I hope you are all well. Now I'm off to start something new....</p><p></p><p><br /><br /></p></div></div>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-34676003629748869382021-01-08T13:27:00.002-05:002021-01-09T12:33:32.197-05:00Trying something newTwo posts in less than a week? Who does this blog belong to? In an effort to settle myself and maybe feel just a little bit in control of something, anything, I am trying some new things. First is the blog, I have every other Friday off, so I am going to make that my blog day - hopefully earlier than I'm getting to it today, but things got in the way. So, fingers crossed, I will be posting twice a month.<div><br /></div><div>The second is my rotation. I had a crazy rotation set up and I wasn't following it - at all. It worked a bit for the commuting me, but it wasn't working so well for the working-from-home me. I'd been mulling over a change, but couldn't come up with anything, so while listening to <i>Just Keep Stitching</i> over on YouTube, I heard Stephanie discuss her rotation and my ears perked right up and my brain yelled "THAT'S IT!!!" and then I thought, "That's not a revolutionary rotation, why haven't you thought of it before" but anyway... So instead of the crazily convoluted rotation I had, I am now going to work on <i>Goldie </i>for 10 days, <i>Zen Garden</i> for 10 days and a randomly chosen WIP <i>or whatever I'm feeling at the time </i>for the rest of the month. Simple and easy to remember. My wheel is all set up in Decision Roulette for the random WIP pick and even though I didn't put any knitting or crocheting on the wheel, I do try to get a few rows in each night.</div><div><br /></div><div>Two simple changes and I am feeling energized about my making again and a little settled. The changes pull me away from "then" and put me in a mindset of now and now has got to be better. It's not going to make for real exciting blogs as I'll only have one or maybe a few days of a second project, but everything is flexible and maybe this will get me back into weekly blog postings.</div><div><br /></div><div>I can FINALLY show the making I did for Christmas this year. I think everyone has received their card and the last of the boxes arrived at my sister's Tuesday. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here's my 2020 Christmas card:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHkm2cfkaVgGvluGmqg7zn7t64UqsN2KWcA45nNGHhGdJ_WTS0XVjc_d8mrsztIWN9hVXPjJcb022ixZV8RD4kCEga0JBQ6E7H2HKfqB6ySHZuXolVQwF8Y6OIiyqQMhXj2FZ_crh58igi/s2048/2020+Christmas.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHkm2cfkaVgGvluGmqg7zn7t64UqsN2KWcA45nNGHhGdJ_WTS0XVjc_d8mrsztIWN9hVXPjJcb022ixZV8RD4kCEga0JBQ6E7H2HKfqB6ySHZuXolVQwF8Y6OIiyqQMhXj2FZ_crh58igi/s320/2020+Christmas.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>The stamp is the Hydranea/Poinsetta PUNCH-INS stamp from Make an Impression. I did a search for the company but it looks like they are out of business (my papercrafting stash is only about 10 years younger than my stitching stash). Lots of punching, cutting and some watercoloring but I like how it turned out. </div><div><br /></div><div>And here are all the things I made for Christmas:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDZYZduWixFtII-k289olwe2atC1LRGg1i6hPN3qd2JUynXupwzK-ddXSA9ZssIQ-KH1t5F-JiyaodVK6jBDalQi-xIe6m5z8jRHNZCrwC064Js30VSg5aGHAM50n_CQAP9_Egv6wrW8sA/s2048/handmade+christmas.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDZYZduWixFtII-k289olwe2atC1LRGg1i6hPN3qd2JUynXupwzK-ddXSA9ZssIQ-KH1t5F-JiyaodVK6jBDalQi-xIe6m5z8jRHNZCrwC064Js30VSg5aGHAM50n_CQAP9_Egv6wrW8sA/s320/handmade+christmas.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>The four bags on the left were used instead of wrapping paper (I really don't like wrapping so being able to put the gift in the bag and zip it shut more than made up for the additional time it took to make them). There are also a couple there in the background in different sizes.</div><div><br /></div><div>There were two more hats (this is before blocking and prettying up) finished after the main picture <i>the hats are knit in <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/SplashOfColorYarnsUS?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=558682096">SplashOfColorYarnsUS</a>'s colorway Smoke on the Water</i>:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQIb2Io7hLgly3d22VRwbnliNGU4Or7OuJkt7rg4rSRwP6Aksjj8mq9vzl0tuCaG08mHuQzbAeyyFYRSkik1742sxpvmFM7__QL8zzfkdsfc6-zz773imdg-WJoUt52a5jPch_tS09jDQq/s2048/Couple+More+Hats.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQIb2Io7hLgly3d22VRwbnliNGU4Or7OuJkt7rg4rSRwP6Aksjj8mq9vzl0tuCaG08mHuQzbAeyyFYRSkik1742sxpvmFM7__QL8zzfkdsfc6-zz773imdg-WJoUt52a5jPch_tS09jDQq/s320/Couple+More+Hats.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>And here is a close up of the finishing of the ornaments I showed a while ago:<br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF_XnqmGsSLLeRhwrko-gh522-U0b-_HjtxlM18QDVLSSsTP25xjeEwWKq-Dm5mDNO7tnmVeP0dFbzXWu3IzzBxk4tM2B7KO3IyQdNUsLaCoO693jUviL5m2AWCLHi4ssUV2eUoiq_5aNM/s2048/close+up.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF_XnqmGsSLLeRhwrko-gh522-U0b-_HjtxlM18QDVLSSsTP25xjeEwWKq-Dm5mDNO7tnmVeP0dFbzXWu3IzzBxk4tM2B7KO3IyQdNUsLaCoO693jUviL5m2AWCLHi4ssUV2eUoiq_5aNM/s320/close+up.jpg" /></a></div>The little bit of Spam fabric you can see is a mask for DSon.<div><br /></div><div>and here's a closer look at the shawls. It was one of the few VERY sunny days we've had so the colors are blown out. The front one is deep greens and blues, the middles is teal and berry and the back one is rich, fall colors.<br /><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX4TV5GhxlCUBsDUrH6tA_WCteHKwUijTYOHnGSncjjr1jow2RbBBBycz967mPgYNGKBba0BCOLfVfK9b2LEMMhjQXGLe39ZeIfd-S_jXJsxBk2igJjiq6me8cJdyQUWZMNP3Fl2SDgOkn/s2048/shawls.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX4TV5GhxlCUBsDUrH6tA_WCteHKwUijTYOHnGSncjjr1jow2RbBBBycz967mPgYNGKBba0BCOLfVfK9b2LEMMhjQXGLe39ZeIfd-S_jXJsxBk2igJjiq6me8cJdyQUWZMNP3Fl2SDgOkn/s320/shawls.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>Now on to more recent making.</div></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Before I started my new rotation, I worked on By the Bay Needleart's <i>Time for Seasons</i>. It was here when I put it away last:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-AkGqFidYIRVecdfi0x_NmLd7c9pZnXWjaxHmeESs6_G9sIpvj38jnM2sk-_fDF-Vz5FodLOerN-AygUA94RQ3tYWvz8LV55gkLjaBNriRP7C52LgO6ybZntO8-NwCTjD7ez_WEGpFxf4/s2048/Time+for+Seasons.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-AkGqFidYIRVecdfi0x_NmLd7c9pZnXWjaxHmeESs6_G9sIpvj38jnM2sk-_fDF-Vz5FodLOerN-AygUA94RQ3tYWvz8LV55gkLjaBNriRP7C52LgO6ybZntO8-NwCTjD7ez_WEGpFxf4/s320/Time+for+Seasons.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>and it's here now:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZYDhDehnn9a6XOHYGq14zPRg6fjwgxueIQz46OgXk7uHXuiRAZ5yhJy75mAFZ02zEUZ1RrjSEe9awNBgg076PTMsezD33kuiJACiIcvuJWdPlqQdu8wqji7FOWQs4YR3Hfg0ANbnNmRdh/s2048/Time+for+Seasons.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZYDhDehnn9a6XOHYGq14zPRg6fjwgxueIQz46OgXk7uHXuiRAZ5yhJy75mAFZ02zEUZ1RrjSEe9awNBgg076PTMsezD33kuiJACiIcvuJWdPlqQdu8wqji7FOWQs4YR3Hfg0ANbnNmRdh/s320/Time+for+Seasons.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>This is a full-coverage piece - well, in the areas that are stitched - so it's going to be a long while before it's done.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Goldie</i> (as a reminder since it's been ages since this was out - Goldie is my in-law's dog and I had HaED convert a picture into this Christmas stocking pattern that I hope to give to them this Christmas) was the first of my focus pieces in my new rotation. She started here:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIDw7I25iuJs7sTziaRz7AHDADco_gL3ICycYP-3_6w729oddyj-v5j6ljLGa0CxJ6GbNakuucv-i8T8I_X1x_smrboSYJTiAZSayDSkW3wjuK5VM-lPdxqL1eGdPi9b5RJgD2yIRG2Qh_/s2048/Goldie.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIDw7I25iuJs7sTziaRz7AHDADco_gL3ICycYP-3_6w729oddyj-v5j6ljLGa0CxJ6GbNakuucv-i8T8I_X1x_smrboSYJTiAZSayDSkW3wjuK5VM-lPdxqL1eGdPi9b5RJgD2yIRG2Qh_/s320/Goldie.jpg" /></a></div>and today she's here:<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI08VUSXAt6GmR5S0DYRZUbD73fX_ovoBXSoTZAJ86RaQ-W7hCI5og7ctoqhDQh1172HME07LOcSH5uPio_wHzsIoie1j3QX_GVuS7zEhTtFn2EXJ2ylgT2lI326PaecrFW2Sb4sXD7MVG/s2048/Goldie.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI08VUSXAt6GmR5S0DYRZUbD73fX_ovoBXSoTZAJ86RaQ-W7hCI5og7ctoqhDQh1172HME07LOcSH5uPio_wHzsIoie1j3QX_GVuS7zEhTtFn2EXJ2ylgT2lI326PaecrFW2Sb4sXD7MVG/s320/Goldie.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>I am still working on how to tone down that blue in her nose - I'll finish stitching before I do it just to see if it suddenly just works <i>which happens a lot with HaED charting.</i> If it doesn't, I do have dyes that I can dilute and strategically place. I'm very happy with my progress and will be working on her through Sunday.</div><div><br /></div><div>I also started a throw and a shawl.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsXSZjk1fpZqmw8qx62cBQ7zXbX_3ottZAkTgRaIXgiTp3QPtlYVjhb7EzQTbHUUrzbZEa_R0ASzxk9Gko8tIfI_ZdQ9IFl-8JibDVPF3j-uFjuHwmKjFZvE74sRO1oEpjUFlz36dMbZ0p/s2048/Habitation+.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsXSZjk1fpZqmw8qx62cBQ7zXbX_3ottZAkTgRaIXgiTp3QPtlYVjhb7EzQTbHUUrzbZEa_R0ASzxk9Gko8tIfI_ZdQ9IFl-8JibDVPF3j-uFjuHwmKjFZvE74sRO1oEpjUFlz36dMbZ0p/s320/Habitation+.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>This is my version of the Habitation Throw by Helen Stewart (the pattern is available on Ravelry). I say my version as I have already used a fair bit of "artistic license" <i>especially on the edge as it's an i-cord edge and it is, at times, getting the best of me. </i>I'm using the Tour de Tolkien 2020 Advent calendar (although it's really a countdown to Christmas not an Advent) yarns from <a href="https://bumblebeeacres.com/" target="_blank">Bumblebee Acres Farm & Fiber Shop</a>. I was fortunate enough to snag one at their "we have a few left sale" in November. This year's colors were based on the <i>The Two Towers</i>. This is the colorway <i>Smeagol</i>.<i> </i> I waited until they were all unwrapped and then made three yarn cakes with 8 days on each (my baller wouldn't handle all of them). This is their Squishy Sock base (75% SW Merino/25% nylon). They didn't have any on their Coquette base (75% SW Corridale/25% nylon) which is what I usually buy from them but this is a nice yarn and I'm enjoying trying something different.</div><div><br /></div><div>Next up is my version Heavy Metal shawl by Shireen Nadir. The pattern is available on Ravelry and from <a href="https://shop.thebluebrick.ca/" target="_blank">The Blue Brick </a>shop. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNs4FqDRMLF-RViiNhNj83TIHtR1e8I4MxeSVUlDAHk4vJ5vw_tXG_EfCxibEChw3j_W-ARDfAVqBZ9WUwJspUqsbIII50P_AewNfngzPVU3oTmfQhGpmOsiUuxiD3vfmOcG4KWPHwPvB5/s2048/Heavy+Metal.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNs4FqDRMLF-RViiNhNj83TIHtR1e8I4MxeSVUlDAHk4vJ5vw_tXG_EfCxibEChw3j_W-ARDfAVqBZ9WUwJspUqsbIII50P_AewNfngzPVU3oTmfQhGpmOsiUuxiD3vfmOcG4KWPHwPvB5/s320/Heavy+Metal.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>Again, my interpretation as I could not get the "slip with yarn in front, yarn over, knit" to look right, so I changed it (and you can see where on that left edge) to "with yarn in back" so I didn't drive myself crazy. I'm using the Winter Berry colorway -<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgur5M8Ixv8rU4ESmPd2olNgXk1Qj-zGxfs3yIJRsdJEL122jgtAPtshsqIsmGJA2Leab-Hg04Ctil9XMfAmmH-iPN8Lwh97rmwwSkSSCnztVusz_-acq-S2Qke5yneHcXsLm0kYosPc-2j/s300/image.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgur5M8Ixv8rU4ESmPd2olNgXk1Qj-zGxfs3yIJRsdJEL122jgtAPtshsqIsmGJA2Leab-Hg04Ctil9XMfAmmH-iPN8Lwh97rmwwSkSSCnztVusz_-acq-S2Qke5yneHcXsLm0kYosPc-2j/s0/image.png" /></a></div><br />- from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/WendysWonders127LLC?ref=yr_purchases">WendysWonders127LLC</a> on Etsy - <i>gotta love Christmas money</i>. She does amazing gradients and offers large skeins - the one I bought is 600 yards <i>and that's a medium</i>. The yarn is a wool/silk blend and hopefully I can do it justice. </div><div><br /></div><div>I also had an issue, with both of these projects, with the circular needles. I'm used to a 9" circular for socks but not the 24" and 40" these use, so had cables in the way, yarn tangled around cables, etc. I finally decided to start them on double pointed needles and once they're too long for them, transfer to the circulars. That seems to be working, but I am still having an issue with the yarn tangling. I suppose some of it just comes with experience.</div><div><br /></div><div>Speaking of yarn - I placed an order with <a href="https://ravenswoodfibreco.com/collections/limited-edition-yarns">Ravenswood Fibre Co</a> and was expecting to wait forever as they are in Nova Scotia, Canada. The other day I received a 9" x 13"manila envelope in the mail. I'm wracking my brain trying to figure out what it is as I hadn't ordered any patterns or books from Canada. I open the envelope and it's my yarn!!! To reduce shipping costs, they vacuum pack it!</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn2KVY0JsU_8bcT2AyqP5dQbeQdh9y0k3DLHKJtdciqF4SZsoKZCUy-NYkeuhiPQOmuk5-blHvdtr2dxGSKkjY4s4jvP9KQ2A0CbkWgDOBEb6lqKz3No4XgxQ08GY4JcGlcWoLRxeHT__b/s2048/Yarn+1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn2KVY0JsU_8bcT2AyqP5dQbeQdh9y0k3DLHKJtdciqF4SZsoKZCUy-NYkeuhiPQOmuk5-blHvdtr2dxGSKkjY4s4jvP9KQ2A0CbkWgDOBEb6lqKz3No4XgxQ08GY4JcGlcWoLRxeHT__b/s320/Yarn+1.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's a full 100g skein!!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy6NrryuACKUyDxyf7-zrKuaw3NnZMM-uYgzcVtYwGz7RqqhxCJ1COxagOiNHi_oQ1Jv3YDLtwGeUuYe3JFCbkAE4QNa0xquf-9uOrDzBBJxqWBxuydJYXseWATAvhtrCajANG8rB19ibL/s2048/Yarn+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy6NrryuACKUyDxyf7-zrKuaw3NnZMM-uYgzcVtYwGz7RqqhxCJ1COxagOiNHi_oQ1Jv3YDLtwGeUuYe3JFCbkAE4QNa0xquf-9uOrDzBBJxqWBxuydJYXseWATAvhtrCajANG8rB19ibL/s320/Yarn+2.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>I don't know how long I can keep it in the bag, but I am tempted to do this with the rest of my yarn. Keeps it clean and sure makes storage easy. This also shows how much air yarn fibers trap.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Thanks for reading this longer than anticipated post. Hope everyone is well and see you in a couple weeks.</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /></div><br /><br /><div><br /></div></div>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-80438462452598391482021-01-03T13:11:00.006-05:002021-01-03T15:32:54.187-05:00A new year, a new WIPocalypse<p> A new year with all its possibilities and a new WIPocalypse with all its possibilities. Before I get into the WIPocalypse posting, a catch-up on what I've been doing the last week or so.</p><p>I have my first finish for 2021!! This is <i>Temperature Tree </i>by Stitchin' Mommy on Etsy:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJC1kKjSQ4Ks6ua87LxB-gMKnhdvuKP2jU2cZeHq-lSznSB1s5oi5W_63fAlxHamEmOzP4NArFoA0MD2Ikhx7faQ8HrYNP-YGV-Ow5XeFVCA6AfKTAIDJLCbQXbyJCr_ABCwltj7HAIa4g/s2048/Temperature+Tree.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJC1kKjSQ4Ks6ua87LxB-gMKnhdvuKP2jU2cZeHq-lSznSB1s5oi5W_63fAlxHamEmOzP4NArFoA0MD2Ikhx7faQ8HrYNP-YGV-Ow5XeFVCA6AfKTAIDJLCbQXbyJCr_ABCwltj7HAIa4g/s320/Temperature+Tree.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p>This is done on 18-count Light Oatmeal Fiddlers - the color is blown out for some reason - with the called for DMCs. I'm planning to do one for 2021, but need to get floss for the trunk. I used 3882 for this one, but you can't get it anymore and I don't have two skeins of any browns in my stash (??? how did that happen) so a quick pick-up order to Michaels when I have some more things to get. </p><p>I mentioned in my last post that I was going to start <i>Heirloom Christmas Sampler</i> by The Victoria Sampler. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq2OqqVPCDxb5Krcl_bCWxEQym_e2QVCxEus3E52aTiH8Ov5bkwy15ldzlmzKdglaisai-NksQG1S_BY-UeSS5SDqnoifwZy57hGjErSdpSIQ5cG2BIAmdlWiAMiq1p84nXCrgajuFoJ5z/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="643" data-original-width="500" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq2OqqVPCDxb5Krcl_bCWxEQym_e2QVCxEus3E52aTiH8Ov5bkwy15ldzlmzKdglaisai-NksQG1S_BY-UeSS5SDqnoifwZy57hGjErSdpSIQ5cG2BIAmdlWiAMiq1p84nXCrgajuFoJ5z/" width="187" /></a></div><br /> I started at the center top and as you can see from the cover photo, that means The Tree!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgauSy750xipOsFQCQqsbStQHRFYYVIDcGLFgGxsD5tsuANPEtvO2NtBf7Rkd7hvUevkscHU3LnMca66KFw6168d8FTZo6Som5r5ZYyyhFDHO-liH0NMFTsIrVKKWp0KSWIYW6t_CMu5tu5/s2048/Heirloom+Christmas+Sampler.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgauSy750xipOsFQCQqsbStQHRFYYVIDcGLFgGxsD5tsuANPEtvO2NtBf7Rkd7hvUevkscHU3LnMca66KFw6168d8FTZo6Som5r5ZYyyhFDHO-liH0NMFTsIrVKKWp0KSWIYW6t_CMu5tu5/s320/Heirloom+Christmas+Sampler.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p>I'm stitching this on 28-count Platinum Cashel in the Victorian Rose (roses and teals) colorway. I bought the silk and beads accessory pack so it's the called for fibers. I could not get the perle accessory pack so will be using DMC perle #8 in white. Other than being backstitch, once I got past the top five or so branches the stitching was rather enjoyable. There are more presents and some backstitching to do to finish this band but that should go fairly quickly.</p><p>My New Year's Eve start was <i>Amy Cann 1831</i> from Hands Across the Sea Samplers. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii14V0RlQmwiiBiGyRb1DEoSFzH_sp6Kwb12cLHwTUwrbm3qf0Z9ykiH9uJPbwINWd23HKUxMTGdH4NyqmuwURF4qDAoAz4Iej7-YNKvzHHVliG9YPwaZpvcNhU67rm9gZilvqhUJDiG6r/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="458" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii14V0RlQmwiiBiGyRb1DEoSFzH_sp6Kwb12cLHwTUwrbm3qf0Z9ykiH9uJPbwINWd23HKUxMTGdH4NyqmuwURF4qDAoAz4Iej7-YNKvzHHVliG9YPwaZpvcNhU67rm9gZilvqhUJDiG6r/" width="262" /></a></div><br />This is so not my normal style (although I'm not sure what my normal style really is), but the color palette caught my eye and there are no people (people on samplers are a real turn-off for me). I'm stitching her on 40-count Vanilla Latte from Fabrics by Stephanie with the called for NPIs. I had planned to stop stitching at midnight but I had a rhythm going on the border and when I finally stopped stitching it was 1:45 AM, so first stitches of 2021. I didn't finish the border but decided I would on New Year's day. I had a major PHEW!! moment when the ends matched up:<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEny_U3mv9b7tJdC0e1CkiBAfHiQzbQ9ybmVZA-hHLQVWz5sCj6CFMwufTdg-v5pv6aVoGUynckTe5nFd7H8w-zEtyb2nmUwtaz6ObHRkD_tM6vJ2nAlBMSdP9cVYDjr6kpbEYTXY6cyPy/s2048/Amy+Cann+-+Phew.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEny_U3mv9b7tJdC0e1CkiBAfHiQzbQ9ybmVZA-hHLQVWz5sCj6CFMwufTdg-v5pv6aVoGUynckTe5nFd7H8w-zEtyb2nmUwtaz6ObHRkD_tM6vJ2nAlBMSdP9cVYDjr6kpbEYTXY6cyPy/s320/Amy+Cann+-+Phew.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And here's the closed border:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAOPBNJ_pjyN-gAMlrlScInnrekPnT6psUQj0eBHaVx-v8Nn0DoGusOk2GjYiWdhMtnMqCj5cq2PCqWP4ZNVbc0jcEe9pHIoFDHw9FNJshv6vy01K66vMv2IuJX0ajSP60cVEMtLuQP0Ex/s2048/Amy+Cann+-+Finished+Border.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAOPBNJ_pjyN-gAMlrlScInnrekPnT6psUQj0eBHaVx-v8Nn0DoGusOk2GjYiWdhMtnMqCj5cq2PCqWP4ZNVbc0jcEe9pHIoFDHw9FNJshv6vy01K66vMv2IuJX0ajSP60cVEMtLuQP0Ex/s320/Amy+Cann+-+Finished+Border.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>The actual fabric color is closer to what is showing in the model picture. The called for fabric is Vintage Strawflower from Lakeside Linens which has a pinkish tint on my monitor and my fabric definitely leans cream/tan.<div><br /></div><div>After I finished the border, I put <i>Virginia - A Cumberland County Inspiration </i>by Heart's Ease Examplar Workes on the frame: </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5BSVsxQuknhxy22CjlzDcQD50ts_Qg_xfDxCpX_w4KnprfrG-p2FF5A1-F15miAm6_JQvqFPf4NKv7vwcYu3TC9UoBKvgqbSoUp6FcjSAHcxVTv9FJp4FTdKEg7jrKnMFCYq6KZtauNAl/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="349" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5BSVsxQuknhxy22CjlzDcQD50ts_Qg_xfDxCpX_w4KnprfrG-p2FF5A1-F15miAm6_JQvqFPf4NKv7vwcYu3TC9UoBKvgqbSoUp6FcjSAHcxVTv9FJp4FTdKEg7jrKnMFCYq6KZtauNAl/" width="199" /></a></div><br />Despite having a person on it, EVERYTHING about this sampler appeals to me. I'm stitching her on 40-count Biscotti from Colour and Cotton (the called for is Vintage Meadow Rue from Lakeside Linens) with (mostly) the DMC conversion. I say "mostly" because there were several colors that converted to the same DMC. As I wanted the more subtle color shading, I bought the NPIs for them. There was another hold-my-breath moment on this:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO5WPd60c4RyyepWlxeqVYmlanh9ZvPHEx1mE47XR81TG7Uoz6JbxX_6jCWgDghUKnQgj0uPZ6kv4CuHp9IPZcBQI2AArpzrcxsKbfVYoN__IRWPS3EOHkc8ay58nu_XuO8YtrEJPqjTH-/s2048/Virginia+-+A+Cumberland+County+Inspiration.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO5WPd60c4RyyepWlxeqVYmlanh9ZvPHEx1mE47XR81TG7Uoz6JbxX_6jCWgDghUKnQgj0uPZ6kv4CuHp9IPZcBQI2AArpzrcxsKbfVYoN__IRWPS3EOHkc8ay58nu_XuO8YtrEJPqjTH-/s320/Virginia+-+A+Cumberland+County+Inspiration.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div><div>but it matched up and I got all three layers done and a little bit of the dogwood branch. I normally start in the upper left corner and while I'm usually very confident in my counting/measuring, I wanted to make sure it fit my fabric. I bought a fat half but the edges are a bit wonky so I didn't want to just measure in 2" and start - so I started at the top middle. There is a main vine that defines the entire border, but I'm afraid if I stitch it first I'll get discouraged seeing how big it is (441x535) and how little I have done. </div><div><br /></div><div>Well, so far, this has been as long as a normal blog post and I still need to do my WIPocalypse introduction. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9lwHDAc8UgsX3fA7FjGpXwwT-TdNpEO3Uy7abbUnh5G-618Dh8RHnsurQ_FFvqM4AvCRyZnd2tN9CJHczbPQMHnnfthRPQOsl6ppdQ0WAIdFTPk6YG6y_7hH3_jQpbzbKx8A0dASJieLh/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="240" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9lwHDAc8UgsX3fA7FjGpXwwT-TdNpEO3Uy7abbUnh5G-618Dh8RHnsurQ_FFvqM4AvCRyZnd2tN9CJHczbPQMHnnfthRPQOsl6ppdQ0WAIdFTPk6YG6y_7hH3_jQpbzbKx8A0dASJieLh/" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /><p>was started 10 years ago by Melissa at Measi's Musings. If you click on the icon above, it should take you to the 2021 page and from there you can get to her blog (or check her out on FlossTube). The idea was to stitch all those WIPs before the world ended - little did we know it wouldn't be in 2011.... Well, the world didn't end and my WIPs weren't finished and I just added another six, so another year of WIPocalypse works just perfectly for me. The idea is to put some time into those pieces that aren't so bright, shiny and new (darn those designers - they do seem to be upping their games) and then post on the last Sunday - or there 'bouts - of each month. No weekly or monthly challenges, no time requirements, no tracking, just stitching or knitting or crochet or whatever your crafts are. And, if you're at a loss for words, Melissa gives us writing ques each month. This is our introductory post, so it's to introduce ourselves and our 2021 plans, so....</p><p>I'm Susan, I live in northern, central Virginia - almost exactly halfway between Richmond and Fredericksburg. I am a writer/editor for the US Department of Agriculture and usually work in Washington, DC although I have been blissfully working from home since March. I share the house with The Hubs and three cats. I am a solitary stitcher more by of circumstance (When I'm in the office, I have a rather long commute 2-1/2 hours each way - that doesn't leave any time for outside activities during the week and pushes all the stuff that normally gets done during the week into the weekend) than choice. I have been doing some form of needlework since I was 4 or 5 - anyone remember stitching cards? My mom taught me to do stamped cross stitch (I did a set of tea towels for my Grandmother when I was in 1st grade) and then embroidery. I remember the phone call 35 or so years ago when Mom said she'd picked up a kit and had I ever tried counted cross stitch? Thanks Mom...:-) I have tried lots of other crafts over the years, yarn is trying to take over right now, I taught myself to crochet two years ago and dusted off my near non-existent knitting skills the beginning of 2020, but there is always a cross stitch piece on the frame (I am a scroll rod/frame stitcher - I have a Needlework System 4 stand that I absolutely love). I suspect crochet and knitting will become commute crafts once I'm back in the office - right now they are sharing the time with my cross stitch. As you can see above, I tend to stitch BAPs (if you're new those are big a$$ed projects) so don't have a lot of finishes in any given year. I put together my 2021 stitching plan a few weeks ago - you can see it up in the WIPocalypse Projects and 2021 Stitching Plan tab at the top of the page AND THEN!! Wednesday, I got a text from my niece saying their adding a little to the family in August!! Yep, Grady's going to be a big brother. Such great news and so excited. So, my stitching plans are changing or they will once we find out what this little is as I'll need to get a Christmas stocking stitched. </p><p>If you read through all of this - thank you. My normal posts aren't this long, although I don't think I've done a normal post in several years. Hope to see you all in the WIPocalypse check-ins and looking forward to seeing all your progress this year.</p></div></div>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-34334695351676809242020-12-27T13:53:00.003-05:002020-12-27T13:56:01.144-05:00December WIPocalypse<p>It's time for the end of year WIPocalypse check-in. I did not do a very good job of keeping up with any of my SALs this year. I think I made the January introduction for WIPocalypse and that was about it. It wasn't as though I didn't have the time, I started working from home full-time on March 17th. I certainly stitched, so had plenty to talk about. I even dusted off some old knowledge and started knitting again. I think my lack of blogging and most things non-work computer related comes down to - I have no space difference between work and home. My work area is my stitching/making area. The only difference is which computer is out. If working from home becomes a real, full-time thing, I will have to work out a different space arrangement.</p><p>And none of that has anything to do with stitching or WIPocalypse. WIPocalypse is hosted by Melissa at <a href="https://measi.net/measiblog/" target="_blank">Measi's Musings</a> (she's also on YouTube as Geekywitch) and reminds us to ignore (as best we can) the siren song of new starts and love the ones we're with.</p><p>I remember saying that 2020 was going to be all-baby-all-the-time for stitching and that if I had time after finishing a birth announcement and stocking for the soon to arrive Baby W (Grady was born the beginning of February), I would start and hopefully finish a birth announcement for Baby L (Cassie was born the end of June) and if there was any time left in the year, I'd start her stocking so she could have it for Christmas 2021. Things were going along just like planned until March and office closures and stay-at-home is best and the world changed. For me, that change meant that I lost a crazy long commute and gained about five hours of stitching time in the evening (the 2-1/2 hours of commute time plus 2 to 3 hours because I could stay up past 8:30) which meant I not only finished ALL the baby stitching but I managed to have 10 finishes this year (only 5 of them were on my official WIPocalypse list). I know that doesn't sound like a lot, but in 2019, I finished 4 pieces.. </p><p>Because I didn't think I'd be doing anything other than the stockings and announcements, my brain couldn't settle into a routine once I finished them - despite having a very detailed stitching plan. I started things (because I needed more for my WIPocalpyse in 2021 :-)), flitted from piece to piece and went crazy with the knitting and crochet. You can see all my stitching finishes in the "Finishes" tab up top there. Most of them you've seen but these two:</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgFZv1ZK0F5Fmh81qek_nD6L55pOuyCt5ODkxDRaaFEfwnRzjnSwY-cFyovYlqNJgRTWS34DtbfFqrIcg4mOqKHQ3UPXYs5R4Pbp4Fiedp3gnuicbdxf9WaOHl8x8nS3GKjP3KQogutvlA/s2048/Let+it+Snow.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgFZv1ZK0F5Fmh81qek_nD6L55pOuyCt5ODkxDRaaFEfwnRzjnSwY-cFyovYlqNJgRTWS34DtbfFqrIcg4mOqKHQ3UPXYs5R4Pbp4Fiedp3gnuicbdxf9WaOHl8x8nS3GKjP3KQogutvlA/s320/Let+it+Snow.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitppC-YUWT82VlmQkbZb3Jr6DkONFF-r809Km3QMsDZEw21CtbvSazmM1xQt4MWLC3sYllchY5fqavYxGo11qtXj39vsEt5d4G4jDjqlCdCJyOBOp6VHl-j8sl-aIho0CTXR41Cfcd_ICM/s2048/Christmas+Carol.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitppC-YUWT82VlmQkbZb3Jr6DkONFF-r809Km3QMsDZEw21CtbvSazmM1xQt4MWLC3sYllchY5fqavYxGo11qtXj39vsEt5d4G4jDjqlCdCJyOBOp6VHl-j8sl-aIho0CTXR41Cfcd_ICM/s320/Christmas+Carol.jpg" /></a></div><p>are new. The top is <i>Let It Snow </i>by Tiny Modernist. It is done on 14-count black Aida with the called for DMC plus white etoille (which doesn't show up at all in the picture). The bottom is "A Christmas Carol" by Sapphire Mountain Handworks as part of her book club SAL. It's done on a piece of mystery 32-count linen (it might be Stone Grey) with DMC and some red mystery beads. I did change up some of the color locations as they didn't play well with my fabric, but overall I like how it turned out.</p><p>2021 will be the 10th iteration of WIPocalypse. Click on the button on the left there and it should take you to the 2021 information page if you'd like to participate. I'll be there. Not only did I go through a starting frenzy earlier in the year, I have started (or will start) a project a day since Christmas so plenty of new WIPs to work on.</p><p>The ones I've started so far are:</p><p><i>Early Christmas Morning</i> from Blackbird Designs:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2qODI8sj6i1MTZ8-vT9CtvDsN3WPPgpr0DZWE9pvrJRJ8fLWGbjyEZU4krDQ_xKIZ6-iA8Y7O4Bh5bJAoXFPI8eHQrz5MChJSGFBOzU60QNc90dP7F6m39B2a1HRcn4fCyuGevTayqevO/s2554/Early+Christmas+Morning.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1231" data-original-width="2554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2qODI8sj6i1MTZ8-vT9CtvDsN3WPPgpr0DZWE9pvrJRJ8fLWGbjyEZU4krDQ_xKIZ6-iA8Y7O4Bh5bJAoXFPI8eHQrz5MChJSGFBOzU60QNc90dP7F6m39B2a1HRcn4fCyuGevTayqevO/s320/Early+Christmas+Morning.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>This is stitched on 36-count Patriot's Brew from R&R Reproductions with the called for threads - one over two. I saw this last year on someone's YouTube and loved it. As with many Blackbird Designs, it was out of print (it was a club piece in 2018 at Dyeing to Stitch) but the rumor was that it was going to be released the end of this year. I found a picture of the kit and got the fabric and thread names and ordered it back in February thinking there would be a run on the fabric and threads when it published because, you know, buy all the Blackbird's. I never thought supplies would be unavailable due to a pandemic.<div><br /></div><div>My next start was <i>Christmas in my Heart 1843</i> by Samplers Not Forgotten</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkEIs8gvqpZNVJwF1d3BSDs-jiJpmMgzSU81wObNliAQNh9myvuUe5SAgZfV_QSPBgB0_vunVcMjVmO9h0ExEjPn759BlON2aFimJLgAuwfaYmp-nvYImTfzOYLXwN0nLTrGrMTJBRkBbh/s2048/Christmas+in+my+Heart+1843.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkEIs8gvqpZNVJwF1d3BSDs-jiJpmMgzSU81wObNliAQNh9myvuUe5SAgZfV_QSPBgB0_vunVcMjVmO9h0ExEjPn759BlON2aFimJLgAuwfaYmp-nvYImTfzOYLXwN0nLTrGrMTJBRkBbh/s320/Christmas+in+my+Heart+1843.jpg" /></a></div><div><p>This is stitched on 35-count Cocoa from Week's Dye Works with a color conversion by <a href="http://www.sgcountrysampler.com/" target="_blank">Country Sampler</a> in Wisconsin. They do country/prim color conversions of many charts. I bought this one fully kitted. </p><p>Next up is an oldie:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZiAJzaIwfwO_-6pjQPmbWYyXhyphenhyphen9LLOoZ1qykERNyfOVgr4sbrCFyZ4DpUcBqVu4nFkEesvOGgsI853wKugkRvfsUsYIVcMTfoI4BpzD-74VRXzv3aO4bGOrPD5VRnyDQHQ6lvr0NULYFp/s2048/Holly+and+Ivy+corner.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZiAJzaIwfwO_-6pjQPmbWYyXhyphenhyphen9LLOoZ1qykERNyfOVgr4sbrCFyZ4DpUcBqVu4nFkEesvOGgsI853wKugkRvfsUsYIVcMTfoI4BpzD-74VRXzv3aO4bGOrPD5VRnyDQHQ6lvr0NULYFp/s320/Holly+and+Ivy+corner.jpg" /></a></div><p><i>The Holly and the Ivy</i> by Teresa Wentzler. It's stitched on 28-count Platinum Cashel with the called for DMC, Kreinik and beads. I stitched the top row of the border all the way across and then started this corner. This is, like most TWs, blended thread heavy. I think there is only one non-blended color in this corner. I am making the blends and bobbinating so they're easy to find, but that does take time. Once I get them set up, stitching should be much faster (says me with every project I stitch).</p><p>The last one will be (I'm starting as soon as I finish here) <i>Heirloom Christmas Sampler</i> by The Victoria Sampler. I'll be stitching it on 28-count Platinum Cashel in the rose/teal colorway. </p><p><i>The Holly and the Ivy </i>and <i>Heirloom Christmas Sampler </i>have been in my stash for ages (I think I bought them both right after they published) and I kept thinking, "I should start those when I finish some of these others". This year pushed me to, "Just start them already, they're not doing anyone any good just sitting in your stash." </p><p> I have two more BAP starts planned for New Year's Eve and New Year's Day - the <i>Virginia </i>sampler from The Heart's Ease and <i>Amy Cann 1831</i> from Hands Across the Sea Samplers. I know I'll start stressing out about the number of WIPs I have, and especially the BAP WIPs, but right now I'm okay with it. Besides helping me handle all my WIPs is what WIPocalypse is all about right? :-)</p></div>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-25491654870283581082020-12-16T00:00:00.144-05:002020-12-16T00:00:05.400-05:00Day 16 of the Advent Calendar Blog HopWelcome to day 16 of the Advent Calendar Blog Hop hosted by Jo at <a href="https://serendipitousstitching.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Serendipitous Stitching</a>. This is my third year participating and I thoroughly enjoy visiting everyone's blogs and seeing all the beautiful Christmas/holiday/winter stitching. <div><br /></div><div>My stitched piece this year is one I stitched and FFOd <u>this year</u>, which is as close to a Christmas miracle as I'm likely to get. This is <i>Needle Nick</i> from Lizzie*Kate:<br /><div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZULEsCGogGeAFqBko2RuuMlRbOzVvqg1sKAl_scksijZN6Wdks6IJW2RLh9bUd5kNET-cdDESahRbQX9ctcD36eIAVvT03gY_TOZuAqiqGpuqDRD1xQ7PYmt9uEbXa4MMbhu7s4BrqobM/s2048/Needle+Nick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1537" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZULEsCGogGeAFqBko2RuuMlRbOzVvqg1sKAl_scksijZN6Wdks6IJW2RLh9bUd5kNET-cdDESahRbQX9ctcD36eIAVvT03gY_TOZuAqiqGpuqDRD1xQ7PYmt9uEbXa4MMbhu7s4BrqobM/s320/Needle+Nick.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>He's stitched on 28-count Lambswool Jobelan with the DMC conversion. I used DMC Blanc in his beard rather than the called for Wisper as I detest stitching with Wisper. He is designed to be a stand-up, but I thought this frame fit him perfectly. The frame originally had a clipboard clip and bow to hold a 4"x6" photo. After I mounted Nick on some chipboard, I removed the clip, glued Nick down and reused the bow. Not as fancy or embellished as a lot of things I've seen recently but I figured there were enough embellishments on the piece.</div></div></div><div><br /></div><div>This year's question is: What is your favorite Christmas book? I am particularly fond of <i>How the Grinch Stole Christmas </i>by Dr. Suess and the other four of Dickens' Christmas stories, but my absolute favorite is <i>A Christmas Carol in Prose, being a Ghost Story of Christmas.</i> I start the book on December 1st every year. Once I finish the print version, I turn to the audiobook versions. I'm not sure how many different versions I have but, as I think I've mentioned before, the Tim Curry version is my favorite. When I'm not reading, or listening, I'm watching. I have four versions that I cycle through. The Patrick Stewart version is my favorite followed closely by the George C. Scott and Muppet versions, my fourth is the Alastair Sim version. What's that? No, I don't get tired of it and I find myself pulling it up in my Audible feed throughout the year. Why? I don't know - redemption? hope? love? The story has them all. </div><div><br /></div><div>Did you miss some of the earlier posts? Click on that link to Jo's blog up top there to find the links to previous posts and the doors for future ones. Thanks for stopping by and Happy Christmas or winter observance of your choosing.</div>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-62684700150076353972020-11-24T11:18:00.001-05:002020-11-24T11:18:25.193-05:00It's November<p> Can you believe it's November already? What? ....Thanksgiving is the day after tomorrow? Well, that means it's the <b>end</b> of November and December starts next week! I suppose I should have known given all the Black Friday ads I've been seeing lately, but it feels like they've been running since last Black Friday.</p><p>So what have I been up to since my last post? During the one tiny window in COVIDness between bad and horrible, I went to Michigan for Cassie's baptism. As I was going into someone else's bubble, I did my 14 day isolation before I left, only stopped once during my drive over (and back), distancing, masks, and all recommended safety measures were taken and 14 days isolation when I got home. Honestly? It was a bit nerve wrecking but I'm glad I was able to do it as I won't be traveling for a while.</p><p>After my frenzied finishing weekend, my stitching has shifted into "slow". I have been knitting and crocheting though. I've finished and started a hat and made really good progress on a throw (I'll show pictures later - I don't know if the recipients read this blog). </p><p>I started my annual craftcation last week - I usually take two weeks off around Thanksgiving (American) to finish off gifts, make cards, bake, and just generally get things ready to send off. This year it worked out that I could take off from Veteran's Day until the Friday after Thanksgiving so a nice long stretch of time off. This is what my dining room table looked like on my first day off with all my supplies pulled out for card making:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs9uZhDjIem3HYSkdiupcPv8IMnpE8PCYRCvQlrXshPMXerU9NMKt2MafkYoUebuI1PZl8U8-7v3bbG0i0vKpa6SDUuDhN4j85zzUMTSVbGgkEYCRdPvoYiILaYvmtJEww2UHhk63m5ldT/s2048/Craftcation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs9uZhDjIem3HYSkdiupcPv8IMnpE8PCYRCvQlrXshPMXerU9NMKt2MafkYoUebuI1PZl8U8-7v3bbG0i0vKpa6SDUuDhN4j85zzUMTSVbGgkEYCRdPvoYiILaYvmtJEww2UHhk63m5ldT/s320/Craftcation.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p>Here is one of the cards I finished the first day:</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBUDn-vLve-cg9i82L1cVX46FieWy7xiAjXNKA6CBsos5HmkQZJy_D_6F_xPZhrDuaAuEQwpv8XfnYOktN2LAkPezMluDR9KJMo3dA__39nTuQpGKlWQWAEk61AJshzN6vAHVzzidSVZRY/s2048/Thanksiving+Card.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBUDn-vLve-cg9i82L1cVX46FieWy7xiAjXNKA6CBsos5HmkQZJy_D_6F_xPZhrDuaAuEQwpv8XfnYOktN2LAkPezMluDR9KJMo3dA__39nTuQpGKlWQWAEk61AJshzN6vAHVzzidSVZRY/s320/Thanksiving+Card.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p>I then started in on the Christmas cards:</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkGVvy_oIzpSrSJGsMI3CBNI2pTwJ5omoOsbXKIIl_SyBZNOqlUBnvNJwAGVk348fV4WB8zannCn0CMdySy3fIvM3jOU4hcL36PeST1VkFcKa4jDUh325wz22rTAbLWV3oyRIfPLjudbhE/s2048/Christmas+Card.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkGVvy_oIzpSrSJGsMI3CBNI2pTwJ5omoOsbXKIIl_SyBZNOqlUBnvNJwAGVk348fV4WB8zannCn0CMdySy3fIvM3jOU4hcL36PeST1VkFcKa4jDUh325wz22rTAbLWV3oyRIfPLjudbhE/s320/Christmas+Card.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'll show the finished ones once they've been delivered</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>I finished this year's cards and made good progress on next year's (of course I did the same thing last year and then sat back and let I-have-plenty-of-time take over).</div><div><br /></div><div>I've spent a lot of time sewing - I've made five more bags - they're designed for knitting projects but they make great gift "wrapping" and FFOd three pieces, knitting (hats) and crocheting - I've finished and started a shawl. I always feel like I'm just flitting from one thing to another, but I manage to either complete or make good progress while I'm flitting.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have not forsaken stitching. I spent some time on <i>Pandemic </i>and got it to here:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhztveVBHtvMMfhL60zc2FrYzkWOH1fSB1HSt-viOCqpZNPn1VBfmLGLHMI8R2IfsxDstsCmBuxg7b8RW1csldQ7DTRCC5-wUtkNHNcE3Q2MglwpVgr-xXzpwUsGC9y1ip5hqPZRjGPuo4d/s2048/Pandemic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhztveVBHtvMMfhL60zc2FrYzkWOH1fSB1HSt-viOCqpZNPn1VBfmLGLHMI8R2IfsxDstsCmBuxg7b8RW1csldQ7DTRCC5-wUtkNHNcE3Q2MglwpVgr-xXzpwUsGC9y1ip5hqPZRjGPuo4d/s320/Pandemic.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>This a tiny bit of the upper left corner. I'm stitching it on 28-count white Monaco using one strand of Sulky 12 weight thread in <i>Sunset </i>over one thread.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Luna</i> was restarted. This is where it was when I stopped last time:<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLoQ1cQn5yhpXMzKL64yEyLS0s_w0fANWZ-NBaS6ujhypdrPib72ndisVgqOJGBC2mvvVXQ2RvHnVkBc0ewMwchmOCh3lGlrCoxGAwTDK6NXHXrugp9WWTNhQnfdg5xMXCFB9lsDlwOMNC/s2048/Luna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLoQ1cQn5yhpXMzKL64yEyLS0s_w0fANWZ-NBaS6ujhypdrPib72ndisVgqOJGBC2mvvVXQ2RvHnVkBc0ewMwchmOCh3lGlrCoxGAwTDK6NXHXrugp9WWTNhQnfdg5xMXCFB9lsDlwOMNC/s320/Luna.jpg" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>I decided it needed to be further over the moon, so pulled this out and moved her over and up a bit:</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7H1rz1as-bnHxOGwQ8Cgtu_seqTI1a75Po8LlkOB31ukN1MASosCki6Kdv0eGHEyguKdNTSbT-MEnFzqDwB1wZxFHMmUfSJ79H2O_FNSXVZ0zYgYzQeL3b4aCz5OECQ5QT7ZvfC_CIgmi/s2048/Luna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7H1rz1as-bnHxOGwQ8Cgtu_seqTI1a75Po8LlkOB31ukN1MASosCki6Kdv0eGHEyguKdNTSbT-MEnFzqDwB1wZxFHMmUfSJ79H2O_FNSXVZ0zYgYzQeL3b4aCz5OECQ5QT7ZvfC_CIgmi/s320/Luna.jpg" /></a></div><br /></div><div>I think I could have gone over a little further, but as the design spreads out at the bottom, I was pushing further into my framing border than I felt comfortable doing - yes I've heard they can do it with 1" of fabric, but I really don't think they should have to if I can help it.</div><div><br /></div><div>I finished <i>Needle Nick </i>and really like how he turned out.</div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmEFviCJRhLkqzrdKpblGbOCXXPYUk2t8laiFTCRkKSswsg3CI9sPxfHf9OIOOH3iklHzDZnwkIrDtekfxkfdnCduUt7xNvRkKtMir-2a8QZ-BCjCn-M96MW0NAVLz_hsFYhyphenhyphentJjzqmyD6/s2048/Needle+Nick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmEFviCJRhLkqzrdKpblGbOCXXPYUk2t8laiFTCRkKSswsg3CI9sPxfHf9OIOOH3iklHzDZnwkIrDtekfxkfdnCduUt7xNvRkKtMir-2a8QZ-BCjCn-M96MW0NAVLz_hsFYhyphenhyphentJjzqmyD6/s320/Needle+Nick.jpg" /></a></div><br />I have FFOd this one, but forgot to take a picture (maybe showing the finish will push me to write before next year).</div><div><br /></div><div>And I have a new start</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHTC08-B9F5vaE_WBynGg5OpQYlovVinEZR_zTaf6uvQjSquZD-FFnc272VYDY2O0uDTPHkKybGz-iX8JWQSkQ833eIV334P6pxm23pjLqZM0mEhHNc3Wc5gpXvVt0osGLUmu4K9TZsnha/s2048/Let+it+Snow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHTC08-B9F5vaE_WBynGg5OpQYlovVinEZR_zTaf6uvQjSquZD-FFnc272VYDY2O0uDTPHkKybGz-iX8JWQSkQ833eIV334P6pxm23pjLqZM0mEhHNc3Wc5gpXvVt0osGLUmu4K9TZsnha/s320/Let+it+Snow.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>This is <i>Let it Snow </i>from tiny modernist. I'm stitching it on 14-count black Aida with mostly the called for - I am doing the white with one strand of white DMC and one strand of white etoile. I tried with all etoile but it had a distinct grey cast to it so went to a blend.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have also planned and prepped for two new starts</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMbE92vKa-foxeIsljdM33oXnH5iHM4cDNlF8o9ZGfd-95SSSKLA6M5volKMpV1l5sSCMd5J6R5AaiaAtf3uVOf0rCHCLdsDbL1LYqo4buNEm6_CIt3qbEBiJ1spv0Z59eIK8LVicja-Qq/s2048/New+starts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMbE92vKa-foxeIsljdM33oXnH5iHM4cDNlF8o9ZGfd-95SSSKLA6M5volKMpV1l5sSCMd5J6R5AaiaAtf3uVOf0rCHCLdsDbL1LYqo4buNEm6_CIt3qbEBiJ1spv0Z59eIK8LVicja-Qq/s320/New+starts.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>This is the fabric for <i>Heirloom Christmas Sampler</i> from The Victoria Sampler (front) and <i>The Holly and the Ivy </i>by Teresa Wentzler (back). I don't have specific start dates, they are just on my "want to" start list. I really do need to sit down and work on a stitching plan for 2021 or at least settle myself down and continue with 2020's <i>because four more BAPs are NOT needed in my WIP pile.</i></div><div><br /></div><div>I hope everyone is well and safe. If you celebrate, have a happy Thanksgiving.</div>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7524901719526745694.post-38705733267795886992020-10-03T15:20:00.003-04:002020-10-03T15:30:22.101-04:00Whoa!<p> I knew it had been a while since I posted but I didn't realize I'd completely missed September. I have great intentions - my inbox has several emails with photos to insert here but I somehow don't find the time to sit down and actually write. That's not true, I'm making time for lots of other things but not adding to my blog or reading blogs or doing much of anything that requires me to be on the computer. It's all going back to what I've mentioned before - spending all day on the computer for work leaves me with little desire to spend any fun time on it. Yes, I did all of my work on my computer when I was in the office, but I had breaks from staring at a screen all day <i>and no I'm not pushing to go back into the office anytime soon</i>. I have been productive in my non-computer time though. I should probably warn you, this post is going to be long and very picture heavy:</p><p>Before the making update, a youngins update:</p><p>Grady is</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZjc5kHmoo2DOad-jzCLa7bDKh9bkpc2gzMVC0EJwY6nLlZzi8scIUH8p2hxSB60VzE71d0B8CLyU0bqu0wyqd34y3MRXXPAhvKSHbNvidSkCSPIj_fK-BBtY8udFkC_UOPI-9pL1JGJKI/s787/Grady.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="787" data-original-width="735" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZjc5kHmoo2DOad-jzCLa7bDKh9bkpc2gzMVC0EJwY6nLlZzi8scIUH8p2hxSB60VzE71d0B8CLyU0bqu0wyqd34y3MRXXPAhvKSHbNvidSkCSPIj_fK-BBtY8udFkC_UOPI-9pL1JGJKI/s320/Grady.PNG" /></a></div><br /><p>eight months old today! He is thhhhiiiissss close to crawling and is sitting up like a champ. And oh my those eyes...</p><p>Cassie just turned three months</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjhNMsqC5kFGfft2heqTrvkFHjdSC_UHa-E1_N-hiyrkTDd_vwgJORU3Sf1QOFRSSMnjOYCGwLb2YZ4uvttaJBQuzm8dFdYEtqCL6_tDNC7O8hpmoapbZXpM19Rl-Hn-X6ZHUgIVKTdMmB/s1008/Cassie.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1008" data-original-width="756" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjhNMsqC5kFGfft2heqTrvkFHjdSC_UHa-E1_N-hiyrkTDd_vwgJORU3Sf1QOFRSSMnjOYCGwLb2YZ4uvttaJBQuzm8dFdYEtqCL6_tDNC7O8hpmoapbZXpM19Rl-Hn-X6ZHUgIVKTdMmB/s320/Cassie.JPG" /></a></div><p>and is the perfect little princess.</p><p>And Jack, well Jack is looking very grown up </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxl2GQksailfsUCAsQEfStd9p1rUWoDmdRymxtNrJa2WOCe_I0aioPF_ygSf_3lgzmumn9yxOLk5KF0KM4UgB74ci0WAjLgnd92Tk7LAnaDv3wgY1KJwt_z1pW5aJ_lcyBg-eOR0F9RPkU/s990/Jack.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="990" data-original-width="520" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxl2GQksailfsUCAsQEfStd9p1rUWoDmdRymxtNrJa2WOCe_I0aioPF_ygSf_3lgzmumn9yxOLk5KF0KM4UgB74ci0WAjLgnd92Tk7LAnaDv3wgY1KJwt_z1pW5aJ_lcyBg-eOR0F9RPkU/s320/Jack.png" /></a></div>It's so hard to believe that he's almost two.<br /><p>So, making - lots of making happened in September...</p><p>I did a bag sewing/finishing day and fully finished:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWTPuk1JtzogE9Xps7LT9yLZnfZdVWe4p8PXnsL8BnuCSd8TdTnZv_Hmt60FSpH00Hbfnt3qVqaFhY_-XALsKT4JIQLzDfd82VcF-u3OAFj6nU_1T_PnT4TTf47PKi1OfZy_GRyB_fr6GQ/s2048/Sweet+Pea.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWTPuk1JtzogE9Xps7LT9yLZnfZdVWe4p8PXnsL8BnuCSd8TdTnZv_Hmt60FSpH00Hbfnt3qVqaFhY_-XALsKT4JIQLzDfd82VcF-u3OAFj6nU_1T_PnT4TTf47PKi1OfZy_GRyB_fr6GQ/s320/Sweet+Pea.jpg" /></a></div>Cassie's birth record pillow. This picture shows the fairy colors better, but this one:<div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaaCzUD3PJWjlfDCl7TXLeQFsUcAyrr9Yw-DSwTrsbk4yWQxrbXjokn8I1NubAlgo9t5kfrTV6YWfmcHSjo4r7L1WXmIbFjY6QY34FnuuUZqdjDhdu8QVovfcB4dwDQUcYTB9E5h4i0_mf/s2048/Sweet+Pea.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaaCzUD3PJWjlfDCl7TXLeQFsUcAyrr9Yw-DSwTrsbk4yWQxrbXjokn8I1NubAlgo9t5kfrTV6YWfmcHSjo4r7L1WXmIbFjY6QY34FnuuUZqdjDhdu8QVovfcB4dwDQUcYTB9E5h4i0_mf/s320/Sweet+Pea.jpg" /></a></div><br />shows the fabric color a little better. The two hearts have Cassie's name and birthdate on them. I'm pretty pleased with how it turned out.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once I finished this pillow, I FFOd a piece that I finished years ago <i>YIKES!!! my list says I finished the stitching in 2011!! </i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkdpHOPFbBxBcBHRTBxq6tZKU_Y6YuQWqd7Ui6ZZ6ql40d4cqHeNTpNUhHNczuf3CU0x9t-Aievl-sWrHJsszzhobnw2FC3wM2zt5uLtL4TwTqVr6szn5CzLwlX7ZNf6LDXyGdUnVLMZj5/s2048/LK+Santa.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkdpHOPFbBxBcBHRTBxq6tZKU_Y6YuQWqd7Ui6ZZ6ql40d4cqHeNTpNUhHNczuf3CU0x9t-Aievl-sWrHJsszzhobnw2FC3wM2zt5uLtL4TwTqVr6szn5CzLwlX7ZNf6LDXyGdUnVLMZj5/s320/LK+Santa.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Socks and Underwear</i> by Lizzie*Kate<br />No information on fabric or fibers but I'm pretty sure it was done in DMC and the beard is Wisper<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I'm looking for the bag of snowflakes so I can put another one to balance it out a bit.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">When the pillows were finished, I started on the Christmas stockings:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8MYHGVL0UrmOFTruw1yWbm0hNH-F1h-M3sElnm_16Nxwa86_MA3xUz8uPLnwkEmltBSOT97k48qO30o4Ukw-h1M8z_HHMcey7g28kX4ouclRx-qK794FEjMmc-iEFVlzPliUh739LIzyH/s2048/stocking+front.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8MYHGVL0UrmOFTruw1yWbm0hNH-F1h-M3sElnm_16Nxwa86_MA3xUz8uPLnwkEmltBSOT97k48qO30o4Ukw-h1M8z_HHMcey7g28kX4ouclRx-qK794FEjMmc-iEFVlzPliUh739LIzyH/s320/stocking+front.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5IANoAvvXg57Go3-oB6PECdJKuTWZ8wSs8oLoIm3bJp3OOJsDqzUIM4FTgJ9ki-Rzx712lk80TdsuuMhldP90QL52NUulNKUGcEZk0RaZjIt-PRDmbhClxAqX7zzIuZRCXDvdpBN-XXE7/s2048/stocking+back.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5IANoAvvXg57Go3-oB6PECdJKuTWZ8wSs8oLoIm3bJp3OOJsDqzUIM4FTgJ9ki-Rzx712lk80TdsuuMhldP90QL52NUulNKUGcEZk0RaZjIt-PRDmbhClxAqX7zzIuZRCXDvdpBN-XXE7/s320/stocking+back.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></td></tr></tbody></table>I also did up a bunch of gift and knitting bags but forgot to take pictures. The sewing machine has been put away to rest and recover for a little while. After I finished the finishing I tried to settle into a cross stitch project, but mostly just flitted hither, tither and yon. First I pulled out <i>Goldie</i>. It went from here:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1yd1HF5R-_IDm_lRneywvZSuwlcPBhrbeHKikL5ay6zpruxfPW4Yvo-THjZRAI4OI2rp8Yko0YpBmsi-td1MbLoEP2UwASKAYtP5gTgexsRtM5qesduoNroBNauGYzhvgmIkre_X8O8sN/s2048/Goldie.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1yd1HF5R-_IDm_lRneywvZSuwlcPBhrbeHKikL5ay6zpruxfPW4Yvo-THjZRAI4OI2rp8Yko0YpBmsi-td1MbLoEP2UwASKAYtP5gTgexsRtM5qesduoNroBNauGYzhvgmIkre_X8O8sN/s320/Goldie.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">to here:</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfZ4fMvXaUufJ_uKVIPnUOiiy6ZNDj_Vdq_Sfz3H__EqYkEmRELgie75nh_dFacPFM1H2jcm1QSpgz8PpgHFL9yf3ZXzJPQUtfduDNLPTM-bTPil-NLQ8MrprHP7p-M0JXne46g8PLbunn/s2048/Goldie.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfZ4fMvXaUufJ_uKVIPnUOiiy6ZNDj_Vdq_Sfz3H__EqYkEmRELgie75nh_dFacPFM1H2jcm1QSpgz8PpgHFL9yf3ZXzJPQUtfduDNLPTM-bTPil-NLQ8MrprHP7p-M0JXne46g8PLbunn/s320/Goldie.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Goldie - </i>Christmas Stocking charted by Heaven and Earth Designs<br />Stitched on 28-count Monaco with DMC 1 over 1</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div>It looks like the last time she made an appearance was in July of 2018. I would really like to get this finished for Christmas 2021 <i>although it would be really nice to finish it for this year.</i><div><i><br /></i></div><div>Next came <i>Poinsettia Fairy. </i>The artwork is by Rueben McHugh and it's charted by Charting Creations. I started this in February of this year and got this much done:</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-style: italic; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoILvDpgKL0eew3YFhuT7mPSaX0VONaubpq6ZDbkwOYdnTFj0aLP6tuCsEkQpWXCV5jn-aD-vn9oYN3Ailbz9Pkxv3xkUS8qZ_rBx7q79Zih_t1hCtoHHkSEfgO8ooa_osEo5Ua8LJdNtR/s2048/poinsettia+fairy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoILvDpgKL0eew3YFhuT7mPSaX0VONaubpq6ZDbkwOYdnTFj0aLP6tuCsEkQpWXCV5jn-aD-vn9oYN3Ailbz9Pkxv3xkUS8qZ_rBx7q79Zih_t1hCtoHHkSEfgO8ooa_osEo5Ua8LJdNtR/s320/poinsettia+fairy.jpg" /></a></div><br />I added a bit more:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsWoFoSApnuJri8XKJTe3YsIodHxQ1ddhGWDnSPFOtwLU7W5to04yHl2u1i_2UhxEx_0GzH7BonbVmVVyKUzUqfjzQM-BBaWY9wqwpRaDV1acVUvEz3cuPodLbiCvX_lCuFPKdfOaG44EM/s2048/Poinsetta+Fairy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsWoFoSApnuJri8XKJTe3YsIodHxQ1ddhGWDnSPFOtwLU7W5to04yHl2u1i_2UhxEx_0GzH7BonbVmVVyKUzUqfjzQM-BBaWY9wqwpRaDV1acVUvEz3cuPodLbiCvX_lCuFPKdfOaG44EM/s320/Poinsetta+Fairy.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>This one is also done on 28-count white Monaco (I bought a bolt of it several years ago) in DMC 1 over 1.</div><div><br /></div><div>I then landed on <i>Needle Nick</i> by Lizzie*Kate. He went from here:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY6pfnuhLkli04_sdimM9LMR2DS3KRAxfVvQFPjxbO_HTn1FrhoZA9I_LVY_HTxj7DkE62p7p5cxajSpAsH7TgpOzSX3OVjm7aMfvXWiZOk5pDBgzxjRn_wfwpwllv_QCa5HRiNXAhSkEW/s2048/Needle+Nick.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY6pfnuhLkli04_sdimM9LMR2DS3KRAxfVvQFPjxbO_HTn1FrhoZA9I_LVY_HTxj7DkE62p7p5cxajSpAsH7TgpOzSX3OVjm7aMfvXWiZOk5pDBgzxjRn_wfwpwllv_QCa5HRiNXAhSkEW/s320/Needle+Nick.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>to here:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9baEG5ZvEfEKrlezKXyMT2hKaF81RAR2zXgtNGUj_h-z7GcR8gysBdml5nv3SyMmG4uoYuT9856-mlnISAktiZY2GgwJUVavYa41WKNtif2CSawsXXvzmJeGxs2Uy87Z6C5yVWtu25s2L/s2048/Needle+Nick.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9baEG5ZvEfEKrlezKXyMT2hKaF81RAR2zXgtNGUj_h-z7GcR8gysBdml5nv3SyMmG4uoYuT9856-mlnISAktiZY2GgwJUVavYa41WKNtif2CSawsXXvzmJeGxs2Uy87Z6C5yVWtu25s2L/s320/Needle+Nick.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div>and then here: <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJPVNHHWVcu7I6wi6ZK9HBPhZpvXJn899JcE9hwRjXjOTq3WyJwE8nlToiLNG0KfcJNFfUkxsMJgugbIJr8WPrxu05vC7eZeUlMIBueY1wCPJw5OekGMh3r6HseeDWn15Qx1tDDEYODmzJ/s2048/Nick+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJPVNHHWVcu7I6wi6ZK9HBPhZpvXJn899JcE9hwRjXjOTq3WyJwE8nlToiLNG0KfcJNFfUkxsMJgugbIJr8WPrxu05vC7eZeUlMIBueY1wCPJw5OekGMh3r6HseeDWn15Qx1tDDEYODmzJ/s320/Nick+2.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>After I hit that big block of red coat, my stitching mojo wandered off, so I picked up my yarn and hook and needles.</div><div><br /></div><div>I finished the second sock (but haven't blocked it yet):</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJO11hFLXXcr9GPG6av4wYcVsokzLhGrVetGYjW6cTN8UtEfSZBj37KoL4GiDfhQn9r9GFQ5HiAQabcwYT1_o4ItigRuAJvRB2lfzv73er5X7ZH38DZVoChjMOoXB8YnDTus6PL7Gl7-03/s2048/Sock.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJO11hFLXXcr9GPG6av4wYcVsokzLhGrVetGYjW6cTN8UtEfSZBj37KoL4GiDfhQn9r9GFQ5HiAQabcwYT1_o4ItigRuAJvRB2lfzv73er5X7ZH38DZVoChjMOoXB8YnDTus6PL7Gl7-03/s320/Sock.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div><br />and because I enjoyed it so much, I cast on another one:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNtTElSlzPv0-DNgXTsKUOf4Pq1uE7C89h2rbPCUyMWr9v1ard-PVOmujo_wKsDzV0Bla7zXvAUPQBLng99ikU9tE-vy_lT1ni6txNlCj0AzDm4KJBBd4qgHNxgVj4q_Nd-TCp3rTd60_q/s2048/socks.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNtTElSlzPv0-DNgXTsKUOf4Pq1uE7C89h2rbPCUyMWr9v1ard-PVOmujo_wKsDzV0Bla7zXvAUPQBLng99ikU9tE-vy_lT1ni6txNlCj0AzDm4KJBBd4qgHNxgVj4q_Nd-TCp3rTd60_q/s320/socks.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>As I was working on this, I realized that while I thought I had plenty of time, Christmas would be here before I knew it so decided I should get busy on gifts.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimBWQnHz0hfB8Ii23AKO-PoBSZYSxVLu8NpgDgGfjCSSxza4BEC7PCK1S74lLL_dwY3RMCKjyCNcpSp8RVvORnMHhDlciLzVPpr77RNfxaoqMa-sLzeSHJOSulFm_E5M5La1YdCKSrypXP/s2048/shawl.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1914" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimBWQnHz0hfB8Ii23AKO-PoBSZYSxVLu8NpgDgGfjCSSxza4BEC7PCK1S74lLL_dwY3RMCKjyCNcpSp8RVvORnMHhDlciLzVPpr77RNfxaoqMa-sLzeSHJOSulFm_E5M5La1YdCKSrypXP/s320/shawl.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>This is the Kaleidoscope Shawl - it's a free pattern from Red Heart and uses Red Heart Unforgettable yarn - this is the Mermaid (I think) colorway. <i>I had to use one of the cat's chairs to get a decent picture so please excuse all the fur (I used the lint roller on it before I put it away)</i>. This one is for my niece. I also finished one for my mom's birthday (which is Monday - HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!) but neglected to take a picture of it in my rush to get it in the mail. It was done in shades of white and grey (the colorway is Pearly) Here's what is left from three skeins of yarn: </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQiQsvyzILgFcoA2Kll3fwaenT-hKbPA-i7jmJh5un_WErHCy5bkmN0Fq8RZjO1j_nNzY_VgNWgvWjv82obdCDx9Lz4qPqfu8p9aNmqzLtcZrVlfbB10WNgxDHL9cpGND4Gf4tqfXLhHNw/s2048/yarn+chicken.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQiQsvyzILgFcoA2Kll3fwaenT-hKbPA-i7jmJh5un_WErHCy5bkmN0Fq8RZjO1j_nNzY_VgNWgvWjv82obdCDx9Lz4qPqfu8p9aNmqzLtcZrVlfbB10WNgxDHL9cpGND4Gf4tqfXLhHNw/s320/yarn+chicken.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div>I think this is a prime example of "yarn chicken" and yes, I was sweating this one.</div><div><br /></div><div>I started and finished a hat for Cassie <i>all the youngins are getting one this Christmas</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXUbweshk-joYppu7s5q0nxSh3YZdUrGGuVjg0u-pgZ58Q6bNvEaY33C0xJqW5OZutPAtheB9XTK6KmAVJ6XV6ABxrSGL5GwDe7KUCkEKfW5TFJvV2jZ51Xd26XUc2at39cAQUE-GFYByx/s2048/Cassie%2527s+Hat.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXUbweshk-joYppu7s5q0nxSh3YZdUrGGuVjg0u-pgZ58Q6bNvEaY33C0xJqW5OZutPAtheB9XTK6KmAVJ6XV6ABxrSGL5GwDe7KUCkEKfW5TFJvV2jZ51Xd26XUc2at39cAQUE-GFYByx/s320/Cassie%2527s+Hat.JPG" /></a></div><br />This is the <i>Sockhead Hat</i> in Splash of Color Yarns' <i>Licorice</i> colorway. The colors are lighter than they are showing up in this picture. I cast on one for Jack in <i>Let's Roar</i> from the same dyer (it's Detroit Lions blue and "silver") - Grady will get the same color and I have a turquoise-ish/grey (<i>Smoke on the Water</i>) for Vance and Calder. Fortunately, once I get past the ribbing, it's just round after round of stockinette so perfect for sitting back and relaxing.</div><div><br /></div><div>And I finished and cast on another throw, but again, neglected to take a picture.</div><div><br /></div><div>And then finally:</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyvUZnU1JOqiCRjHvTqkMBGuhEUt_EiZCZkQeAEdsRuDZQZySZSwUCf4KjGgsUpwZm6fj71YXhya6-XNIdjZSIGD_zGE0ZdsBxU03fhlWKqn03SZfKITJpUqTbdXbFIYOHIs8ztzZ0jmSb/s543/Ready.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="543" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyvUZnU1JOqiCRjHvTqkMBGuhEUt_EiZCZkQeAEdsRuDZQZySZSwUCf4KjGgsUpwZm6fj71YXhya6-XNIdjZSIGD_zGE0ZdsBxU03fhlWKqn03SZfKITJpUqTbdXbFIYOHIs8ztzZ0jmSb/s320/Ready.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;">And yes, Virginia is heading towards some form of winter <i>being that 2020 has been such a year I'm a little scared to see what winter has in store for us</i>. We had a front go through a bit back and the temperatures went from the upper-80s/lower-90s to 60s and 70s (that's F not C). The leaves have started changing and there has been a shift in the birds at the feeders from Finches (Gold, House and Purple), Sparrows and hummingbirds with a surprise Magnolia Warbler a few weeks ago to Chickadees, Titmice and Blue Jays with a surprise Red-Headed Woodpecker. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Off to settle into some sort of making for the remainder of the weekend. I hope you and yours are staying safe and well.</div>Susanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13370771698452520645noreply@blogger.com5