tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71161015130827108372024-03-12T19:18:11.844-05:00Inspired NewsCathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.comBlogger115125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-74183488618285732502013-11-28T22:02:00.001-06:002013-11-28T22:02:37.361-06:00Count Me Inspired Needlework Retreat Part IIFriday after we came back from dinner at the Blue Gate, we all settled down into an evening of stitching. It was also time to work on our annual retreat project. This year, I selected "A Needlework Collage" using the pattern from Erica Michaels. Here is a picture of our sample model. <br />
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The designer, Linda Stolz, used a piece of silk gauze on which she stitched the word "Needles." She added a few wool pages and some sticker numbers denoting needle size and created some needle pages. She also handwrote a familiar verse, "All of my scattering moments are taken up with my needle." We had a table full of supplies to utilize to create our own collage on trading card pages. We could use pieces of our own stitching, scrapbook paper, fabric trims, wool, buttons and whatever else struck our fancy. This was our project to create and whatever materials we wished to include would be perfectly fine. Here are a few attendees perusing the available supplies.<br />
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Several ladies actually finished their pages at the retreat. Here are some examples:<br />
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I gave everyone a challenge for next year's retreat. Whoever has finished their collage needs to bring it and we'll take a vote. There will be a prize for the "People's Choice" collage. Here are some examples from the designer of different ways you can utilize scraps of stitching and other needlework media.<br />
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There is one more part left to this retreat recap. Check back again for the details of our last days together.<br />
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CathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-27229363054681889552013-11-09T23:36:00.000-06:002013-11-09T23:36:03.604-06:00Count Me Inspired Needlework Retreat 2013 - Part IThe boutique is packed and in the van. I make the trek alone this year and it was a good thing....there is no way I could have fit a passenger in the van! It was loaded to the roof. I pulled into the Farmstead Inn driveway about 2pm local time, checked with the front desk for room info, then drove around back to the conference center to start unloading the van. This is the sight that greeted me.<br />
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I don't think there is a more wonderful sight: gazing upon an oasis of stitchy contentedness for the first time, knowing that 3 days of bliss is in store for you. I love the Farmstead Inn. Everytime I see that "red barn" conference center, I get a smile in my heart. I set about unloading the van and after a little while, help arrived and we finished the unload. Setup of the boutique commenced. It took about 6 of us working diligently to get the boutique ready for our attendees. About 4:30, I ran down to my room to change clothes and freshen up. The room is ready and waiting...table assignments have been made and each attendee has a name tag waiting for them on the edge of the table.<br />
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This was the sight that greeted everyone in the hall on the way to our conference room:<br />
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Boutique:<br />
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Here's our first evening together. Everyone is mingling together and having fun; making new friends!<br />
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We went to lunch the next day and I was able to snap a pic of some of the ladies that help me out with the retreat and other "shop" doings. L to R: Pam, Grace, Debbie & Rita<br />
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Getting a little bit of stitching in before heading over to the Blue Gate Restaurant for dinner.<br />
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Stay tuned for Part II....lots to write about and more pictures to show you!<br />
CathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-90974835543125240362013-10-13T22:17:00.000-05:002013-10-13T22:17:06.632-05:00Friday Funday Finishes!Customer Jo stopped by yesterday for our Friday Funday stitching event. This is a once-a-month stitch afternoon held on the 2nd Friday of every month. If you're available, come on by and join us for a fun and relaxing few hours. Well, Jo just happened to bring with her a one-woman trunk show! She is quite creative and resourceful and loves to frame things using her treasure trove openstock frame stash.<br />
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Here's a cute little Lizzie Kate "Land That I Love"<br />
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"Crow Patriotic" by Homespun Elegance<br />
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"Sheep Freebie" by Shepherd's Bush and "Tall Snowman" from Heart In Hand<br />
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Not sure of the name of this one, but I'm pretty sure it's from Crossed Wing Collection<br />
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A bunch of cute wool pincushion kits from Just Another Button Company<br />
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A close up of the "Ghost Spoolkeep" kit and "Pumpkin Mini" pincushion<br />
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This is one of my favorites although Jo couldn't remember who designed it. She said it came as a kit with the perforated paper, memo pad and pen. You stitch the designs, lightly glue or use stitchery tape to attach them to the memo pad. So adorable! "Can't Remember Jack" memo pad <br />
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Forgot to get designer names and titles for those below but these are great for the upcoming holidays!<br />
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Love this little sled! I've been wanting to stitch one of these little sled ornaments and Jo certainly has inspired me to get moving! Too cute! I can envision an entire Christmas tree filled with these gems. Or, bring smiles to all your gift recipients and attach a little sled to their holiday package!<br />
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I hope to have more interesting news to report from our upcoming "Count Me Inspired" Needlework retreat. It will be here in two weeks! Can't wait for Shipshewana!!<br />
CathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-84895155669811085692013-08-04T22:22:00.001-05:002013-08-04T22:23:59.740-05:00DuClay Chapter EGA Saturday Stitch-In<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qYw0TK_fLZk/Uf8Wu0uymoI/AAAAAAAABXQ/4D9B3uymSsM/s1600/duclayexhibit4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qYw0TK_fLZk/Uf8Wu0uymoI/AAAAAAAABXQ/4D9B3uymSsM/s320/duclayexhibit4.jpg" /></a></div><br />
The family is currently in Florida visiting with Grandma, cousins, aunt, uncle and more cousins! We're having a blast. Having recently become a plural member of the DuClay Chapter EGA, I was fortunate to find out that they just so happened to be having a stitch day while I would be in town. I drove out to Orange Park and met the chapter members for lunch at Honey B's Cafe. After lunch, we drove to the library for the class. We were lucky to be able to take a wool applique class to make a scissor case. Here is a picture of the model. Mine is no where near finished but I hope to find some time to tackle it soon.<br />
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One of the gals attending the event was stitching on this wool design. The woman holding it is Denise, our instructor for the scissor case.<br />
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Double bonus for me is that the Chapter had a needlework exhibit on display at the library. I took as many pictures as I could to capture all of the items on display. I apologize if I missed any! <br />
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Check out this beautiful casket! Sorry for the glare but I had to photograph through glass.<br />
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Back in January when I was able to attend a different Chapter workshop, the members were taught how to make stand-up cubes for their needlework. Many of the members have them on display in the exhibit. They did a fabulous job on their cubes!<br />
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Thank you, DuClay Chapter for another fun day stitching in Orange Park. See you next time I get to Florida!!CathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-54374240797332004762013-04-03T23:43:00.000-05:002013-04-04T08:08:04.979-05:00Summer House Stitche Workes Contest<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pdFr9vGw0mY/UV160GBjw1I/AAAAAAAABWc/eGktZSAnYMw/s1600/summerhousecontest.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pdFr9vGw0mY/UV160GBjw1I/AAAAAAAABWc/eGktZSAnYMw/s320/summerhousecontest.jpg" /></a><br />
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My friend Beth Seal from Summer House Stitche Workes is having a give-away on her blog. The prize is a copy of her four "Garden" samplers. Beautiful! Pop on over and enter the contest. Good luck!<br />
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<a href="http://summerhousestitcheworkes.blogspot.com/2013/04/blog-contest.html" target="_blank">Summer House Stitche Workes Blog</a><br />
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CathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-91449177470959503082013-03-31T11:59:00.000-05:002013-03-31T12:01:01.505-05:00Happy Easter!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o430lWCc0PA/UVhnnfgbeBI/AAAAAAAABVs/R6Y5ZPLC1ck/s1600/Easter-HeLives-small.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o430lWCc0PA/UVhnnfgbeBI/AAAAAAAABVs/R6Y5ZPLC1ck/s320/Easter-HeLives-small.jpg" /></a><br />
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Hi all, a wonderful, Blessed Easter to you! We are currently in Pennsylvania and we get to share this day with all our family!<br />
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My friend Marilyn stopped by a few days ago and brought a stunning stumpwork piece to show me. This was offered a few years ago at an EGA Regional Seminar and I wanted to take this class. However, what I want to do and what I'm able to do are usually two different things! Marilyn took this course online and here is her version, stitched and framed. Look at how beautifully executed the stitches are and how the flower and petals seem to jump off the ground fabric. <br />
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And a close up. The little pinecones are so realistic and I simply love the cardinal! The beads and pearls also give nice texture.<br />
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I have tried stumpwork before and loved how easy it was to create raised portions of the needlework design. I have a prized stumpwork piece in my collection and will always treasure the time I spent creating the work of art. <br />
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Have a Blessed Day!<br />
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CathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-28238174883152235572012-11-10T00:23:00.000-06:002012-11-10T00:23:00.068-06:00"I'm A Fan of Pam" ClubPam, who works with me at the shop on Thursdays, has ongoing practical jokes with a co-worker at her full-time job. Debbie learned about this joke and figured we could extend the fun to the retreat. Imagine Pam's surprise when three of us came to lunch one afternoon with our "I'm A Fan of Pam" buttons! <br />
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Pam was a good sport about it as we razzed her all weekend about being her fans! Here we are, paying homage to Pam, but by the time this was snapped, we were falling over each other, hysterical with laughter! It does one good to kick back, relax and just laugh. We love you, Pam. Thanks for playing along and letting us have some fun!<br />
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CathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-62711769799855111572012-11-08T00:14:00.000-06:002012-11-08T00:33:58.292-06:00Count Me Inspired Needlework Retreat 2012It's hard to believe another retreat has come and gone. That makes three. We had such a fun time and this was the largest group by far. The first year we had 32. The second, 36. This year, there were 53 attendees! We doubled the room size and it led to a cavernous feeling in the room. We set up the boutique in the room with the round tables for our meals. This left plenty of room between our three sets of tables, with no one feeling cramped or unable to comfortably get out of their chair. The picture below will give you an idea of the layout of one side of the room.<br />
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Each retreat I try to have the group work on a little project, something needlework related but not cross-stitch. I want them to stretch their comfort zone a bit, but nothing too difficult or tedious. It should be a remembrance of the retreat. This year, the group project was a little wool pumpkin needlebook. Here are some attendees working on the pumpkins.<br />
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And some finished masterpieces!<br />
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The food out in Shipshewana is always spectacular. We found the <a href="http://www.gardengatecupcakes.com/">Garden Gate Cafe</a> last year and returned again this year. Trust me, the food is as delicious as it looks! These are the Cafe Cherry Chicken Salad and the Chicken Salad Wrap.<br />
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The dinner bell rings and it's only a few steps away to our buffet line! How easy is that?<br />
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Dinner Friday night was at the <a href="http://www.riegsecker.com/shipshewana/bluegaterestaurant/">Blue Gate Restaurant</a>. I make a point to stop here every chance I get when in the area. The food and service are always excellent! I was so overwhelmed by how they served us with such precision and speed, that I totally forgot to take pictures!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LLs9ahEySB0/UJtHAcBHI1I/AAAAAAAABUA/9MNvaIsRh4M/s1600/blue-gate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="164" width="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LLs9ahEySB0/UJtHAcBHI1I/AAAAAAAABUA/9MNvaIsRh4M/s400/blue-gate.jpg" /></a><br />
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Something we look forward to each year is the "smalls" exchange. If you want to participate, you stitch a small (ornament, needlebook, scissor fob, etc), wrap it up and bring it to the retreat. Here we gather everyone together and if you have a small to exchange, then you pull a number. When your number is called, you get to select a wrapped small from the table. Once everyone has taken a small, we open them one by one and then try to guess who stitched it. Sometimes we get it right but many times, we are surprised! Such creative gals attend the retreat and we are bowled over by the fun ways we see things finished and assembled.<br />
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That's enough for today! Next post, I will show you some photos of what the gals were stitching on at the retreat!<br />
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Cathy<br />
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CathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-83849569879814620642012-09-13T21:56:00.002-05:002012-09-13T21:58:15.201-05:00I'm NOT Dreaming of a White ChristmasMy husband and I made a quick run to the local Home Depot tonight. Look at what I saw!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZzjLWwdua24/UFKboQVN59I/AAAAAAAABRM/WagGd7WCqeQ/s1600/pumpkins_homedepot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZzjLWwdua24/UFKboQVN59I/AAAAAAAABRM/WagGd7WCqeQ/s400/pumpkins_homedepot.jpg" /></a><br />
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This is always the signal for Fall and tonight was the perfect night as it is a little cool and rainy. <br />
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However, when we stopped at Kohl's, I was not prepared for this sight! <br />
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Come on!! The kids have just started back at school and Halloween is not yet here. Heck, it's barely mid-September!!! Don't you think this is just a bit overboard?? <br />
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Cathy<br />
CathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-72948021879514190622012-08-29T07:05:00.000-05:002012-09-04T00:15:00.062-05:00A Sucker For PumpkinsWith the summer season winding down, I'm looking forward to all the colorful abundance Autumn brings. One of my favorite things of the Fall season is pumpkins!<br />
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Just Another Button Company, Pumpkin Mini PincushionCathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-19468425505736481372012-08-26T17:00:00.001-05:002012-08-27T01:23:57.832-05:00A Little Bit of Stitching I've had the chance to do a bit of stitching and finishing (not much so don't get too excited)! Also, there are some more shop models and customer finishes I want to share. First is a design by Rosewood Manor called "Flowers of Rosehall". This was stitched by Marilyn using the recommended Valdani silks!<br />
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Forgive me for not getting the designer of this next magnificent, pulled thread piece. The pattern calls for each block to be filled with a pulled thread stitch, but the teacher recommended, as seen here by Marilyn, to fill in every other block and finish the outside edge. This way, if the stitcher gets totally bored with all the blocks, they can at least do half of them and still have a very gorgeous piece! Don't you agree? I'm sorry about the picture rotation. I tried and tried to get it to face right side up, but Blogger is just fighting me! The other two photos are close ups of some of the pulled thread blocks.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_DEbzV7fMUE/UDqXf0iXf3I/AAAAAAAABOU/UxeNfUFJGQU/s1600/pulled_closeup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_DEbzV7fMUE/UDqXf0iXf3I/AAAAAAAABOU/UxeNfUFJGQU/s400/pulled_closeup.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W-Wdv3y2giM/UDqXgCxUtoI/AAAAAAAABOg/eBGBczcXGm4/s1600/pulled_closeup2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W-Wdv3y2giM/UDqXgCxUtoI/AAAAAAAABOg/eBGBczcXGm4/s400/pulled_closeup2.jpg" /></a><br />
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Next are some ornaments sent back from my finisher. These were stitched by Pat. She and her husband went to Disney World with another couple and this is what she's giving them for Christmas! What a wonderful remembrance of their trip together.<br />
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Pat also stitched two of the Blackbird Designs stocking ornaments. Don't you think they turned out lovely?<br />
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This shop model was done by my fabulous "over one" stitcher friend, Kathy. She loves to stitch over one, so it was just a no-brainer that I asked her to do this "Stitch An Inch - Fall" from By The Bay Needleart. <br />
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Lastly, here's the design I stitched and finished. It is from Dames of the Needle called "Acorn Pillow Pocket". I loved stitching this and did have fun putting it together. It really was super easy.....I just used a blind stitch to join the wool, stuffed it, added the ruched ribbon and sewed the design to the top of the wool pillow. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-76_wdwrR_bA/UDqbeCumHqI/AAAAAAAABQM/ua11vDztq3E/s1600/acornpillowpocket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="400" width="396" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-76_wdwrR_bA/UDqbeCumHqI/AAAAAAAABQM/ua11vDztq3E/s400/acornpillowpocket.jpg" /></a><br />
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Thanks for stopping by. Hope you are making some stitching progress in your neck of the woods!<br />
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Cathy<br />
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CathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-67133811074750451422012-07-31T01:10:00.001-05:002012-07-31T01:10:58.242-05:00Vacation Fun at the Smoky Mountains<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ougBcigNXl4/UBdla1odUTI/AAAAAAAABLw/6TEVQv1kEPc/s1600/cabin_fireplace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ougBcigNXl4/UBdla1odUTI/AAAAAAAABLw/6TEVQv1kEPc/s320/cabin_fireplace.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
My poor readers....you probably are wondering what has happened to me! I've been busy with shop stuff, traveling to see the twins and going to Columbus needlework market. Then, the twins arrived a few weeks ago and last week we took off for Pigeon Forge and the great Smoky Mountains. You may have read this previous post about an<a href="http://inspirednews.blogspot.com/2011/02/anniversary-trip.html" target="_blank"> Anniversary trip</a> to the Pigeon Forge area. We enjoyed our cabin stay so much that we planned another trip and shared this cabin with cousins and kids from Kentucky, my sister and her granddaughter from Florida and my other sister from Chicago. This time we rented a 3-bedroom cabin that also had bunk beds and a pull out sofa sleeper in the lower level for all the kids. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-njnK20oIidU/UBdlaZymwgI/AAAAAAAABLo/iYgxajTlklU/s1600/cabin_basement.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-njnK20oIidU/UBdlaZymwgI/AAAAAAAABLo/iYgxajTlklU/s320/cabin_basement.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>It was one big party for them down there, each and every day. We each took responsibility for one evening's dinner, cooking and cleaning up. This way, there was no hassle wondering what to eat or where to go. We were able to fully enjoy our vacation.<br />
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Our first trip away from the cabin included a visit to <a href="http://www.ripleyaquariums.com/gatlinburg/explore-the-aquarium/" target="_blank">Ripley's Aquarium in Gatlinburg</a>. My cousin had been to this aquarium before and highly recommended the place and I have to agree. It was one of the best aquariums I've ever been to. An outstanding feature of this place was the ride through the shark tank. When you first enter the room, you are above the tank and are thrilled when you see the sharks swim by. But the best part is when you walk down below and step onto a conveyor that slowly guides you beneath the tanks. You get a birdseye view of the fish in their natural habitat that you've never seen before.<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0Nyyf10oQIA/UBdlhanhAQI/AAAAAAAABMg/lN97JdiJHEw/s1600/sharks_sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0Nyyf10oQIA/UBdlhanhAQI/AAAAAAAABMg/lN97JdiJHEw/s320/sharks_sm.jpg" width="320" /></a>You can see a sword-nosed shark resting on top of the plexiglass tunnel in the picture above as the people are moved through the tunnel into the next area. In the picture to your right, there are several sharks swimming around. The entire time in this underground marvel, I kept hearing in my head the, "Da dum da dum" from the Jaws movie. To see those sharp teeth up close and right in front of my eyes was thrilling. I loved this section of the aquarium so much, that when we had gone through the entire building, we had to go back through the shark exhibit.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L1uShrTVbRk/UBdlhJyiMII/AAAAAAAABMY/g5OimgoP5GI/s1600/shark_sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L1uShrTVbRk/UBdlhJyiMII/AAAAAAAABMY/g5OimgoP5GI/s320/shark_sm.jpg" width="320" /></a>We saw all kinds of fish: helmet crabs, sea horses, Nemo, Cuttlefish, Jellyfish, sea turtles and some huge Japanese Spider Crabs. Of course, the twins picked up the helmet crabs and petted the sting rays and had a wonderful experience. If you ever get the chance to visit, it would be worth your while!<br />
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We also took several trips up the Smoky Mountains, hiking and looking for streams and waterfalls. We did find several and the kids enjoyed splashing in the cool, spring water.<br />
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We returned to Newfound Gap, the highest point near the center of the Smoky Mountains. There you can stand with one foot in Tennessee and the other in North Carolina. We hiked a bit around this area, climbing sections of the Appalachian Trail and taking in the beauty around us.<br />
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There was an art class up on the mountains, working on their assignment for the day. It was wonderful to see the artists enjoying their work. I stopped to speak with the woman in the picture below and she told me the students were all fairly new to painting. Hard to believe when you see how beautiful her canvas is.<br />
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What a different view we had last week, compared with last January. It was cold and snow packed up at Newfound Gap last year and we had to wear our heavy winter jackets. This trip, the air was cool and breezy. A far cry from the 100 degree temps down in town!<br />
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Next post, I'll show you a few more pictures from our trip. I do love this part of the country and hope we make this a biennial get together with our family. <br />
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Cathy<br />
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<br />CathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com8Pigeon Forge, TN, USA35.7884241 -83.554332935.7369021 -83.6332969 35.8399461 -83.4753689tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-40316522570820757072012-06-07T07:00:00.000-05:002012-06-07T07:00:16.430-05:00Inspiring Visits<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ezVNEiqFgnQ/T8wr_u-rSHI/AAAAAAAABK0/tADVEDNa1lg/s1600/IMG_0995.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ezVNEiqFgnQ/T8wr_u-rSHI/AAAAAAAABK0/tADVEDNa1lg/s400/IMG_0995.jpg" width="400" /></a>My friend Kay from Bloomington stopped in last week and brought a friend with her. Cindy has never been to my shop but is no stranger to stitching. Lucky for me, they both brought some finished needlework designs. Here is Kay with "Tribute to the Old Masters" by Nouveau Encore. This design was inspired by the beautiful alphabets created by the French Masters of centuries ago. I love the red floss color! What a grand statement this design will make once it is framed!
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Cindy brought along a design by Scarlet Quince titled, "Sun and Moon Flowers." This design was created from the art work of G.D. Leslie. Let me tell you, this is solid stitching! Cindy said it took her about 8 months to complete the stitches. She has quite the set-up for threaded needles; each needle is in its own pocket on a vinyl sheet and there are about 20 pockets to a sheet. These vinyl sheets are then secured into a 3-ring binder. It makes for good organization and easy transportation, although I couldn't imagine traveling around with such a large design. I'd be too worried it would get ruined!<br />
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Thanks, ladies, for showing off your beautiful works of art. They are truly admirable and I'm sure will be treasured for many years to come!<br />
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CathyCathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-22981308225492926702012-06-03T22:13:00.000-05:002012-06-03T22:13:18.031-05:00Stitching FinishesMy friend Marilyn is a prolific stitcher. She not only stitches 1)a lot and 2)quickly, she also 3)"finishes" finishes them, if you understand what I'm saying. If she stitches an ornament design, she finishes it into an ornament. If Marilyn stitches a needlebook, she assembles it into a needlebook. No stitching and then tossing the needlework into a drawer (like lots of people I know)! Saturday mornings are a treat for me because when Marilyn gets a chance to stop by the shop, she usually brings some of her finished needlework to show me.
This is the Sturbridge Box which was offered as a "Stitcherama" (webinar) from The Victoria Sampler.
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"Year of Flowers" and "B My Valentine" both by The Drawn Thread.
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One last piece from Marilyn is one the name of which I can't remember! As soon as I find name and designer, I will edit this post to include that information. She mounted the stitchery into a boxtop and made the smalls which tuck inside the box.
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Now, after seeing these wonderful pieces, I am inspired to go stitch a bit on one of my own! Have a great week!
CathyCathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-12098564614893234972012-05-19T23:48:00.001-05:002012-05-19T23:48:53.171-05:00Sleigh Bells Ring<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Have you seen the latest Little House Needleworks ornament, "Sleigh Bells"? It's a very nice ornament with a catch-y little tune. Are you listening? This year at the shop, we've been taking the monthly ornaments and changing them up a bit. We choose a different fabric and then switch the cottons to silks.
My sister is stitching the model for the shop. When I told her that we use silks for the kit, she was intrigued. When I mentioned that it makes a really affordable way for someone to try stitching with silks, she volunteered to stitch the model! Well, let me tell you, she's a believer! LOL I think she is hooked. Nancy went home tonight and finished stitching the design. The image you see here is what I shot this afternoon. Look how rich the colors are on the deeper colored linen.
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I think she did a great job! I will get the kits made up on Tuesday. Call or email if you'd like to get a kit! Have a great weekend, everyone!CathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-85073044073618849682012-04-20T19:48:00.003-05:002012-04-21T00:56:00.753-05:00Stitching ZenithImagine if you will, a world in which the majority stitches, a world in which the majority goes a little crazy with anticipation over the next Loose Feathers release and a world in which everyone understands the stitchy language. There is never an idle remark about "string" or a question of, "what are you knitting?" when in fact you are stitching. Everyone knows how to stitch and it is a favorite pasttime of most adults. Now, for the pinnacle of my little daydream....stitching is such a treasured mind relaxer, that there is one of these on nearly every corner:<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3okiqPWXzd8/T5IGpx3MfjI/AAAAAAAABHc/Z3b8Q6_CCUo/s1600/orts_bar.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 315px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3okiqPWXzd8/T5IGpx3MfjI/AAAAAAAABHc/Z3b8Q6_CCUo/s400/orts_bar.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5733652590425308722" /></a><br /><br />Can you imagine? You could walk into any Orts Bar, pull a chair up to the bar and start stitching. There would be no awkward moments because you don't know anyone. Everyone speaks the stitchy language and you could become fast friends with everyone stitching at the bar! You would find out what projects they were working on and they would inquire about yours. You could have stitch-alongs right at the Orts Bar! There are free-flowing lattes, cappuccinos, pepsi, water and whatever else your heart desires. You could come and stitch for an hour, a couple hours, visit once a week or every day! At the end of each shift, the orts would be collected and deposited into the giant tank that sits behind the bar. It would be one massive ort display, and stitcher's would sigh wistfully while gazing at the tank and say, "See that Kreinik #12 braid in the lower left corner? That's mine from two years ago when I was working on Rainforest Crunch by Needle Delights."<br /><br />Sounds like the Stitching Zenith to me! Don't wake me up.CathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-54585336250031055952012-03-23T23:50:00.005-05:002012-03-24T00:06:45.894-05:00Finishes and A New ModelI just posted over on the <a href="http://2012yearofsmalls.blogspot.com">2012 Year of Smalls Blog</a> about two great shop models I received back from my finisher. I am thrilled with them both!<br /><br />The first is Poinsettia House by Little House Needleworks. This was the January Small. We changed the fabric to Jobelan 28 count and then stitched this over one thread. I love how the pinks pop on the green fabric.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bO_0dLb3ziQ/T21Tjgn39bI/AAAAAAAABG4/dDmOLNQToMk/s1600/poinsettiahouseorn.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 330px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bO_0dLb3ziQ/T21Tjgn39bI/AAAAAAAABG4/dDmOLNQToMk/s400/poinsettiahouseorn.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723322570975475122" /></a><br /><br />Next is Small Token by Blackbird Designs. This was the March Small. We stitched this on R&R 35 count Cafe Kona linen with the recommended threads. My finisher did a fab job, added the great Chenille trim and stuffed with walnut shells. I just love it!<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3TymHlR05us/T21TkKUsoyI/AAAAAAAABHE/6Bz7uZ4v3og/s1600/smalltokenpincushion.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 382px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3TymHlR05us/T21TkKUsoyI/AAAAAAAABHE/6Bz7uZ4v3og/s400/smalltokenpincushion.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723322582169330466" /></a><br /><br />I'll be on a hunt for a suitable frame for this beauty. Titled, "Humility Sampler" by Heartstring Samplery. We changed everything on this one. Changed the fabric and converted all the threads to silk. I will have this available as a kit in the shop soon. I have more linen on order and will work up a thread kit for the silks to make the price more reasonable. If you'd like me to send you a kit, just shoot me an email.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V_ahkd4VYNU/T21U5mJtjgI/AAAAAAAABHQ/Uz8AugEGZXU/s1600/humilitysampler.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 252px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V_ahkd4VYNU/T21U5mJtjgI/AAAAAAAABHQ/Uz8AugEGZXU/s400/humilitysampler.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723324049928326658" /></a><br /><br />Have a fabulous weekend!<br /><br />CathyCathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-76430469105435277982012-02-06T23:42:00.004-06:002012-02-11T00:23:13.616-06:00Five States In Four Days Part IILast post, I told you about my trip out to Spring Green, WI. Now, from where I left off.......<br /><br />While Debbie & Pam worked on the box smalls, I set to work on the Morning Star spice box. I'm teaching the class this month at my shop so I needed to get my model done. Here are the "parts" drying after being painted.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--e3QNEYqsnQ/TzC1NYgNaHI/AAAAAAAABFA/C12W9kJkdiw/s1600/morningstar_box.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--e3QNEYqsnQ/TzC1NYgNaHI/AAAAAAAABFA/C12W9kJkdiw/s400/morningstar_box.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706259969398892658" /></a><br /><br />And here is the piece laced but just resting on the box lid. I still need to wax the box and glue the needlework to the top. Stay tuned for pics of the class. If you're local and want to join in, there are still a few openings in the March class.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0OQUWkS1ueU/TzC1Nuqm4VI/AAAAAAAABFM/DamoLKKqoYU/s1600/morningstar_box2.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0OQUWkS1ueU/TzC1Nuqm4VI/AAAAAAAABFM/DamoLKKqoYU/s400/morningstar_box2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706259975348085074" /></a><br /><br />Debbie was on quite a roll that night. She also assembled this sweet piece that had been languishing in her "stitched" pile for many years! I think it took her all of 45 minutes to put it together.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WQyjRQIo4sE/TzYHHeG0uJI/AAAAAAAABF8/gvQNo4K4P1s/s1600/Needlebook_Deb3.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WQyjRQIo4sE/TzYHHeG0uJI/AAAAAAAABF8/gvQNo4K4P1s/s400/Needlebook_Deb3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707757402660845714" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-giOqwah4nZE/TzYFJs4lMSI/AAAAAAAABFk/1Fck6m6grkY/s1600/Needlebook_Deb.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-giOqwah4nZE/TzYFJs4lMSI/AAAAAAAABFk/1Fck6m6grkY/s400/Needlebook_Deb.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707755241964122402" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rL4Zomx-knw/TzYHHsX_CQI/AAAAAAAABGI/Pm2HhLLk8Lk/s1600/Needlebook_Deb4.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rL4Zomx-knw/TzYHHsX_CQI/AAAAAAAABGI/Pm2HhLLk8Lk/s400/Needlebook_Deb4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707757406490921218" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zA9jHAIxf-0/TzYFJ-YtPUI/AAAAAAAABFw/yL-GUjLA7N0/s1600/Needlebook_Deb2.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zA9jHAIxf-0/TzYFJ-YtPUI/AAAAAAAABFw/yL-GUjLA7N0/s400/Needlebook_Deb2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707755246662270274" /></a><br /><br />And finally, here's a pic of where it all took place. This is the living room/work area of the 2nd Story. Notice all the different work stations to make this truly a great place to get some serious finishing done. Rotary cutters and cutting mats at the ready, iron & ironing board just begging to be "pressed" into service and all the wonderful tables to spread out and move from project to project. <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C1dfonOP2vM/TzYHINMK3DI/AAAAAAAABGU/QuVpa5yEJ6A/s1600/SecondStory.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C1dfonOP2vM/TzYHINMK3DI/AAAAAAAABGU/QuVpa5yEJ6A/s400/SecondStory.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707757415299734578" /></a><br /><br />I do have a few ornaments to show you that were cut and assembled on that weekend, but I need to sew on the cording first. I hope to have those ready to show you soon! <br /><br />CathyCathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-58976575234328105852012-02-06T23:36:00.001-06:002012-02-06T23:38:12.758-06:00Five States In Four DaysI've been doing a bit of traveling lately. Last weekend, two friends and I took a road trip out to Spring Green, WI, to the Country Sampler. Pay close attention to those upper windows because that, my dear readers, is what is referred to as "The 2nd Story." <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vnQ8AaLLtNk/TzCuYn2aHUI/AAAAAAAABD4/edHSbe0z1ig/s1600/CountrySampler.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 288px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vnQ8AaLLtNk/TzCuYn2aHUI/AAAAAAAABD4/edHSbe0z1ig/s400/CountrySampler.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706252465915698498" /></a><br /><br />There is an apartment above the shop which contains three bedrooms with seven beds, a full kitchen, two bathrooms, living room and awesome work space. We planned to stay in the 2nd Story overnight and spend the evening getting some needlework finished. But first, we planned to arrive in time to take a "make-it, take-it" class that was offered at the shop. It was to be a wool heart done in wool applique, a technique I had not done before. We used a book by Maggie Bonanomi called "Buttonwood Farm." My finished heart is pictured here. <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rgkYP3poNj8/TzCv2YNPs1I/AAAAAAAABEE/KAIBQrAjcnw/s1600/woolHeart.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 360px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rgkYP3poNj8/TzCv2YNPs1I/AAAAAAAABEE/KAIBQrAjcnw/s400/woolHeart.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706254076624221010" /></a><br /><br />I did have to spend some time in The 2nd Story assembling my heart as I didn't get it completed in class. My friends decided not to put their initials on their hearts. The applique is addicting and so fun! I definitely will try it again.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pmiUrnN6Tzc/TzCwtrImH8I/AAAAAAAABEQ/g2UUCgNpBCw/s1600/woolHeart_3.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 252px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pmiUrnN6Tzc/TzCwtrImH8I/AAAAAAAABEQ/g2UUCgNpBCw/s400/woolHeart_3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706255026597797826" /></a><br /><br />We stopped for lunch here and I can highly recommend this place!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RjZkN0DJMw0/TzCxXw8EF4I/AAAAAAAABEc/ZopQ8kXSpHY/s1600/GeneralStore.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RjZkN0DJMw0/TzCxXw8EF4I/AAAAAAAABEc/ZopQ8kXSpHY/s400/GeneralStore.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706255749710354306" /></a><br /><br />We took a class last year at Celebration of Needlework, NH, and wanted to put together our boxes. Here is Pam hard at work assembling her needle case. <br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-73635dwD3DY/TzCzSRu6L2I/AAAAAAAABEo/Jv3GiNv1tE4/s1600/CelebrationBox.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-73635dwD3DY/TzCzSRu6L2I/AAAAAAAABEo/Jv3GiNv1tE4/s400/CelebrationBox.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706257854457589602" /></a><br /><br />All three of us were able to finish the inside, tufted lid, but I have not yet stitched my needle case, so only Debbie & Pam's boxes are totally complete. Aren't they lovely? The boxes are hand painted by a woman somewhere out East. <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-atN1ilSiqR0/TzCzSok-KLI/AAAAAAAABE0/vk0xSexygOo/s1600/CelebrationBox2.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 174px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-atN1ilSiqR0/TzCzSok-KLI/AAAAAAAABE0/vk0xSexygOo/s400/CelebrationBox2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706257860589922482" /></a><br /><br />Next time I will show you what else we worked on and give you a bird's eye view into the work area. It definitely aided us in getting so much completed in such a short amount of time!CathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-6541068250925749062012-01-21T22:37:00.005-06:002012-01-21T22:56:23.419-06:00And A Forest Grew!I have the most talented customers! Look what Pat brought in to show me today!! Unbelievable. This is "And A Forest Grew" designed by Rosewood Manor. It is stitched on 28 count Cashel and stitched over one linen thread. Totally incredible. <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XRm0CTxWNF8/TxuUR53a1FI/AAAAAAAABCk/ADLqfPjUPtM/s1600/AndAForestGrew.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 187px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XRm0CTxWNF8/TxuUR53a1FI/AAAAAAAABCk/ADLqfPjUPtM/s400/AndAForestGrew.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700312788679447634" /></a><br /><br />She still has a bit more stitching to do (and remove her basting threads), but wowie, this is gorgeous! Look at the fox and the little robins.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w4ry1zhwOJg/TxuUSWd2dMI/AAAAAAAABCw/MbH73JAJJT0/s1600/AndAForestGrew2.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 304px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w4ry1zhwOJg/TxuUSWd2dMI/AAAAAAAABCw/MbH73JAJJT0/s400/AndAForestGrew2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700312796356834498" /></a><br /><br />How about that deer?<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Je8KOu9ejE/TxuUS9A_rbI/AAAAAAAABC8/SWTBcUvFOGE/s1600/AndAForestGrew3.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Je8KOu9ejE/TxuUS9A_rbI/AAAAAAAABC8/SWTBcUvFOGE/s400/AndAForestGrew3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700312806704786866" /></a><br /><br />Those trees!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eQvItEheqBk/TxuUTVUHZVI/AAAAAAAABDM/qwMfQN4g7Q4/s1600/AndAForestGrew4.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 255px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eQvItEheqBk/TxuUTVUHZVI/AAAAAAAABDM/qwMfQN4g7Q4/s400/AndAForestGrew4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700312813227435346" /></a><br /><br />The mama bird feeding her babies in the lower left and then toward the top, the owl in the tree.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NlQ4xm_YBO0/TxuVJODABsI/AAAAAAAABDU/aVkseWqcbVk/s1600/AndAForestGrew5.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 280px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NlQ4xm_YBO0/TxuVJODABsI/AAAAAAAABDU/aVkseWqcbVk/s400/AndAForestGrew5.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700313738989536962" /></a><br /><br />The serpent in the tree of life.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hazL498WZmE/TxuVJUJwcCI/AAAAAAAABDg/T5-MelEf7vs/s1600/AndAForestGrew6.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hazL498WZmE/TxuVJUJwcCI/AAAAAAAABDg/T5-MelEf7vs/s400/AndAForestGrew6.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700313740628488226" /></a><br /><br />Those little bunnies!<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i7JzjRaWa7Q/TxuVJ2RCgaI/AAAAAAAABDs/AiP_mI86PVo/s1600/AndAForestGrew7.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i7JzjRaWa7Q/TxuVJ2RCgaI/AAAAAAAABDs/AiP_mI86PVo/s400/AndAForestGrew7.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700313749785837986" /></a><br /><br />I love this design - always have. I love it even more now that I've seen it stitched over one!!! I think there is something to be said for over one stitching. The smallest of details really pop out. Thanks, Pat, for letting me showcase your masterpiece on my blog!CathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-59738681609357988022012-01-11T22:04:00.012-06:002012-01-11T23:47:15.674-06:00An American Girl Christmas & Customer FinishesThe twins were here right after Christmas and we had action-packed days for their entire stay. My cousins were also in from Kentucky, so we were able to have a traditional Christmas Eve, albeit several days after Christmas. It's always nice to carry on the family traditions. The day after my cousin Robin's arrival, my sister, Robin and I set about to make pierogi, which is a staple of our Christmas Eve feast. <br /><br />One of the highlights of the twins visit was a trip downtown to the American Girl store. Angie and I had been together last year, but Robin and her daughter (one year older than Angie) had never been. Sometimes it's best not to let little girls know about these stores! We toured the two-story, little girl's dream shop and then headed over to the American Girl Cafe for our luncheon reservation. Here are the girls deciding what to choose for lunch. Take notice that the dolls get to join us for the luncheon!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lVU-uaMubRU/Tw5eWog3fII/AAAAAAAAA_4/z_YaTEsOOM0/s1600/americangirl.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 260px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lVU-uaMubRU/Tw5eWog3fII/AAAAAAAAA_4/z_YaTEsOOM0/s400/americangirl.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696594321595661442" /></a><br /><br />Both girls selected the Picnic lunch with mini hotdog, mini hamburger, macaroni and cheese and fruit skewer. Yum! It was a very fun afternoon, one I'm sure the girls will not forget anytime soon!<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q_IEq9X9Mdc/Tw5fp0_l-3I/AAAAAAAABAE/yVdfxSQb4eo/s1600/americangirllunch.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 333px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q_IEq9X9Mdc/Tw5fp0_l-3I/AAAAAAAABAE/yVdfxSQb4eo/s400/americangirllunch.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696595750874905458" /></a><br /><br />Marilyn stopped by recently to show me some of her Jane Greenoff finishes. Marilyn is a stitching machine! She not only stitches so quickly, she finishes them all herself, too. Here are Butterfly Needleroll on the left and Flowery Mead Band Sampler on the right. <br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X4Ugm_1Xe6U/Tw5j_XlO7gI/AAAAAAAABAQ/xMv97RB3GYI/s1600/janegreenoff1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 215px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X4Ugm_1Xe6U/Tw5j_XlO7gI/AAAAAAAABAQ/xMv97RB3GYI/s400/janegreenoff1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696600518983347714" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vttwemRy93Q/Tw5j_iHejkI/AAAAAAAABAY/dhdZZyr9ebs/s1600/janegreenoff2.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 243px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vttwemRy93Q/Tw5j_iHejkI/AAAAAAAABAY/dhdZZyr9ebs/s400/janegreenoff2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696600521811332674" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PRPXr2LaP7A/Tw5j_wKqMlI/AAAAAAAABAo/Zp772eBSspM/s1600/janegreenoff5.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 174px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PRPXr2LaP7A/Tw5j_wKqMlI/AAAAAAAABAo/Zp772eBSspM/s400/janegreenoff5.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696600525582774866" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CLZ_tL6giFA/Tw5lWrScPJI/AAAAAAAABBA/l8lxMbqmiaM/s1600/janegreenoff6.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 381px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CLZ_tL6giFA/Tw5lWrScPJI/AAAAAAAABBA/l8lxMbqmiaM/s400/janegreenoff6.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696602018921856146" /></a><br /><br />Next up is Silk Flowers Needle Tidy. It's so amazing, with sections inside for your needles, 22, 24, 26, 28 and a beautiful pincushion in the center. Tied up with a drawstring, even the back is magnificent!<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iLxrpdFlsgo/Tw5kAfyhHpI/AAAAAAAABA0/i3UYSRSkLp8/s1600/janegreenoff7.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 351px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iLxrpdFlsgo/Tw5kAfyhHpI/AAAAAAAABA0/i3UYSRSkLp8/s400/janegreenoff7.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696600538366418578" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VyGIwr5R_3I/Tw5lnUbWj5I/AAAAAAAABBM/_ZDxSY8nP7I/s1600/janegreenoff8.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 388px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VyGIwr5R_3I/Tw5lnUbWj5I/AAAAAAAABBM/_ZDxSY8nP7I/s400/janegreenoff8.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696602304842993554" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NyGbasz7KSw/Tw5mzAjtD2I/AAAAAAAABBw/E54UIPg4FlI/s1600/janegreenoff9.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 248px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NyGbasz7KSw/Tw5mzAjtD2I/AAAAAAAABBw/E54UIPg4FlI/s400/janegreenoff9.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696603605179371362" /></a><br /><br />Here's a pic of BBD Morning Star that I stitched for a shop model.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Co6LXYuI1TA/Tw5yi8uR2TI/AAAAAAAABB8/2iHZJCLMvtI/s1600/morningstar_lg.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 363px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Co6LXYuI1TA/Tw5yi8uR2TI/AAAAAAAABB8/2iHZJCLMvtI/s400/morningstar_lg.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696616523411609906" /></a><br /><br />No stitching tonight for me but here was my progress on the 40 count Morning Star as of last night.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8XYokjy6HUk/Tw5yjHh9dRI/AAAAAAAABCI/ZRSUNJUFFA4/s1600/morningstar2.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 352px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8XYokjy6HUk/Tw5yjHh9dRI/AAAAAAAABCI/ZRSUNJUFFA4/s400/morningstar2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696616526312731922" /></a><br /><br />Hope to make some x's on the French Vanilla tomorrow evening! Wish me luck.CathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-5552150313640126182012-01-08T23:43:00.008-06:002012-01-10T01:05:05.733-06:00Christmas, Etc.Hi friends, thanks for stopping by! I wanted to catch up and give you an update of things that have been happening in my life. Christmas happened since my last post and I'd like to share some of the gifts I received. My very generous DH showered me with Vera Bradley this year! I received not one, but two new handbags. I love, love, love both patterns. Quick story....I had purchased some Vera Bradley gifts for friends and employees, several of which were in the Suzani pattern. Also, my friend Teresa has a Suzani patterned bag. The more I saw the pattern, the more I liked it. I just happened to mention casually (really! I wasn't hinting!) that the Suzani pattern was growing on me. Well, what a guy! He bought me the chain bag, wallet and loop keychain in the Suzani pattern. <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x0Fxj0I_ZE0/TwvVxC1pptI/AAAAAAAAA-k/Q797PvoWsW8/s1600/vera_suzani.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 370px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x0Fxj0I_ZE0/TwvVxC1pptI/AAAAAAAAA-k/Q797PvoWsW8/s400/vera_suzani.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695881192292329170" /></a><br /><br />He also picked up the handbag in the Night & Day pattern, another simple, yet elegant look.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T0G9B17j1OQ/TwvVxSp4TJI/AAAAAAAAA-w/GCn1i3ozlqQ/s1600/vera_nightday.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 366px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T0G9B17j1OQ/TwvVxSp4TJI/AAAAAAAAA-w/GCn1i3ozlqQ/s400/vera_nightday.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695881196537924754" /></a><br /><br />My sister gifted me with several things but most special of all was this round beauty. This is from the sister that as of three years ago, did not even stitch! Nancy did such a fab job of stitching and finishing this box all by herself! <br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E_svAn8zCDM/TwvXFwdIhQI/AAAAAAAAA-8/hDjst3jfszI/s1600/holdhope2.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E_svAn8zCDM/TwvXFwdIhQI/AAAAAAAAA-8/hDjst3jfszI/s400/holdhope2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695882647646536962" /></a><br /><br />I did a bit of stitching myself for an ornament exchange. This is the ornament I gave. Here's the front:<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7XtlUOFjwcU/TwvX7u2UIlI/AAAAAAAAA_I/34CkeREtJJ0/s1600/peaceonearth.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7XtlUOFjwcU/TwvX7u2UIlI/AAAAAAAAA_I/34CkeREtJJ0/s400/peaceonearth.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695883574928220754" /></a><br /><br />And the back. I was able to personalize for Patti since it wasn't actually ready for the day of the exchange. The gals let me participate even though my ornie wasn't finished. It took about another week to finish the stitching and get it assembled. This is called "Peace on Earth" by Victoria Sampler. You will find this adorable ornament in this year's issue of JCS Ornament magazine.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BAoFPJe-AF0/TwvX7ycI3oI/AAAAAAAAA_U/IhtFBAaPSGs/s1600/peaceonearth_back.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BAoFPJe-AF0/TwvX7ycI3oI/AAAAAAAAA_U/IhtFBAaPSGs/s400/peaceonearth_back.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695883575892172418" /></a><br /><br />Here is the ornament I received from <a href="http://brendastitching.blogspot.com/">Brenda</a>. It's designed by Linda's Designs, distributed by Victoria Sampler, called "Biscornuments." I love these tiny beauties! They are so petite and delicate. I have been wanting to stitch one of these ever since I saw the pattern book. I was so thrilled to get this one in the exchange, stitched and finished expertly by Brenda! I will have to make up a few of these. My tree would look great with a handful of biscornuments hanging on it!<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gw7Rbk2PUyw/Twvb47KrKdI/AAAAAAAAA_g/yvGNj4JG9vo/s1600/biscornument.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 284px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gw7Rbk2PUyw/Twvb47KrKdI/AAAAAAAAA_g/yvGNj4JG9vo/s400/biscornument.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695887924741745106" /></a><br /><br />Lastly, I'm teaching a box finishing class next month. We are doing the Blackbird Designs "Morning Star" box. We will paint and sand the box and then mount our finished needlework on the box top. Publishing a date meant that I had to get cracking on the design! Yikes. Here is my progress from earlier today. It is going much more quickly than I anticipated. This is done on R&R 40 count French Vanilla. Stay tuned for an update within the next few days. <br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VoBNyWEuLTc/TwvhQWASGPI/AAAAAAAAA_s/EeR0Y4jBSeQ/s1600/morningstar.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 374px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VoBNyWEuLTc/TwvhQWASGPI/AAAAAAAAA_s/EeR0Y4jBSeQ/s400/morningstar.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5695893824641046770" /></a><br /><br />I do hope you all are finding time to put needle to fabric!CathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-19200328764765753332011-12-21T22:00:00.005-06:002011-12-21T23:00:29.621-06:00A Stitching Evening of SurprisesThis past Saturday evening, I got together with a group of stitchers for a festive holiday party. I had to work at the shop that day so I was the last one to arrive. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted with package after package of lovely stitchy surprises!<br /><br />You will see l to r (top row), a beautiful, quilted candle mat with candle, a stitched and beaded scissor fob with my initial and l to r (bottom row), homemade crackers and holiday music, a perfectly stitched and finished floral ornament and a handmade needle minder. <br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DntkRtElLLk/TvK1gKI3QVI/AAAAAAAAA-M/foHHRRg9_7U/s1600/Jayne_Christmas.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DntkRtElLLk/TvK1gKI3QVI/AAAAAAAAA-M/foHHRRg9_7U/s400/Jayne_Christmas.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688808843404329298" /></a><br /><br />But wait, that's not all! L to r (top row), the ornament I received in the exchange, a Victoria Sampler "Biscornument", a cute, little snowman plaque, l to r (bottom row) Candy Apple hand soap with decorative snow scene cover and lotion (the Santa in the picture is mine used as a prop, a lovely, golden reindeer ornament and a decorative hand towel and Very Bradley mints!<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_G2-UTaxjfM/TvK2v821IrI/AAAAAAAAA-Y/ssNJzaueQuw/s1600/Jayne_Christmas1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_G2-UTaxjfM/TvK2v821IrI/AAAAAAAAA-Y/ssNJzaueQuw/s400/Jayne_Christmas1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688810214228566706" /></a><br /><br />Am I lucky, or what? I won't mention what I gave because it pales in comparison to all the awesome gifts I received. These gals have really raised the bar! My mind has been reeling as to what I can do for next year. There are 10 in the group, so if it will be handmade, I need to get started NOW! <br /><br />My dear friends, if you are reading this post, thank you again from the bottom of my heart for gifting me with such wonderful presents. You sure know how to make a gal feel special!!<br /><br />Merry Christmas, everyone!CathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-80277839088336664492011-12-13T23:11:00.010-06:002011-12-14T00:15:55.073-06:00Quick Trip EastWhile at the retreat in Shipshewana this past October, I ordered an item from Yoder's Hardware store. I was waiting and waiting for it to come in. I had hoped it would come in during November because I wanted to meet a friend of mine who would just happen to be out in Shipshe on a Quilt Retreat around Thanksgiving. Well, they called last week to tell me that my item was now in stock. It was a large item and I knew it would be cheaper to drive and pick it up then to have it shipped to me. Two weeks before Christmas was not the optimal time to make a quick trip to Shipshewana, but if I didn't go on my day off this week, it would be at least a month before I had an opportunity to get out there. <br /><br />The drive was pleasant, the temperatures, mild and I was able to stop at the Blue Gate and "Christmas store" to check out what was new. Here are some pictures right before evening set in.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5-l7C0oQ0N0/Tug4PTbd1II/AAAAAAAAA84/R0CKPE_Ndbw/s1600/BlueGate.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5-l7C0oQ0N0/Tug4PTbd1II/AAAAAAAAA84/R0CKPE_Ndbw/s400/BlueGate.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685856365119919234" /></a><br /><br />I picked up what I ordered at Yoder's and after quickly making a few purchases of Christmas gifts, I set out for home. I wish I had more time to stay and take in all the lovely, twinkling lights, but that will be for another day.<br /><br />I was able to snap a quick shot of Rob, the UPS guy that brings all the wonderful, stitchy designs to the shop.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c57FSGvZ-M4/Tug6de5AaMI/AAAAAAAAA9E/67fDt_-O-Dk/s1600/102_0449.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c57FSGvZ-M4/Tug6de5AaMI/AAAAAAAAA9E/67fDt_-O-Dk/s400/102_0449.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685858807738034370" /></a><br /><br />Jill brought in some finished Ink Circles designs a few weeks ago that she will be giving as gifts this Christmas.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e9zTmJ9W2WM/Tug75YT-5iI/AAAAAAAAA9Q/JxhNk1g2uGc/s1600/InkCircles.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e9zTmJ9W2WM/Tug75YT-5iI/AAAAAAAAA9Q/JxhNk1g2uGc/s400/InkCircles.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685860386520098338" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g1dUHGgeOTA/Tug75pbFm0I/AAAAAAAAA9c/GgF05zYTi1c/s1600/InkCircles2.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g1dUHGgeOTA/Tug75pbFm0I/AAAAAAAAA9c/GgF05zYTi1c/s400/InkCircles2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685860391113300802" /></a><br /><br />Marilyn also stopped by with some finishes of her own. My goodness......so many samplers, so little time!<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fVJDgZSfth4/Tug9hi1nqsI/AAAAAAAAA9o/uOZpXBP04vU/s1600/Vanover.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fVJDgZSfth4/Tug9hi1nqsI/AAAAAAAAA9o/uOZpXBP04vU/s400/Vanover.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685862176051931842" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kCwEW64MLzc/Tug-ESgdHtI/AAAAAAAAA90/toIPywvyAj4/s1600/102_0462.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kCwEW64MLzc/Tug-ESgdHtI/AAAAAAAAA90/toIPywvyAj4/s400/102_0462.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685862772963614418" /></a><br /><br />I hope to bring you some more updates of customer framing and/or stitching projects within the next week. Thanks for stopping by!CathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7116101513082710837.post-9449623918857396992011-11-22T09:05:00.008-06:002011-11-23T11:53:07.054-06:00Truly Thankful<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f0qCbqGXK5s/Ts0w4_AJ6mI/AAAAAAAAA78/NZ7PN3wT4yI/s1600/thanksgiving-feast.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 399px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f0qCbqGXK5s/Ts0w4_AJ6mI/AAAAAAAAA78/NZ7PN3wT4yI/s400/thanksgiving-feast.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5678248460726954594" /></a><br /><br />I've been fighting a reaction of my body to sugars I eat, whether in sweets or carbs which covert to sugar. The condition is known as candidiasis where the "bad" bacteria feed on the sugars I intake and then overrun the good, beneficial bacteria. It is a hard one to knock out and the steps you need to take are drastic. The first recommended step to rid your body of these nasty bacteria is to do a cleanse. For seven days, you go on a liquid fast, drinking several concoctions meant to flush your system. I decided to go for it since I couldn't continue on as I was. I'm telling you, I was so hungry by the end of the afternoon that I caved! How do people do fasts, let alone for seven days?! I didn't eat much and it was certainly on the list of "allowed" foods, but still, it was food! <br /><br />This was perhaps a reminder of how fortunate I am to live in this country. I am truly thankful for food. I am thankful I can look into my stocked cupboards and refrigerator and find many things that I can throw together for a meal. I am even more thankful that when the cupboards are bare, I can just drive to the store and buy more food. There are so many other countries where food is a luxury and here in the Western world, we don't even give food a second thought because it is so plentiful. <br /><br />Definitely food for thought! What makes you truly thankful?CathyRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15534879300182679173noreply@blogger.com1