Dilemma

I have a major dilemma.  I have a project on next years list for the WIPocolypse that I began when I first started stitching.  I will not date myself, but I have to admit, I am amazed the fabric is still in tact.  Well, the problem is, I am self taught and figured out a bunch of stuff later my stitchy life.  The problem in this case is that the stitches are not all going in the same direction.  Its a mess.  Now, I really want to finish because I am 1/4 of way through, but the fact that the stitches are a mess is really bothering me.  I am attached to this piece because its the first big project I ever started.  The completed part is a line of lettering with a border and some garland.  I can unpick the garland to correct, but the lettering with the border is impossible.  The majority of the piece would be stitched correctly.
So, the question is, should I finish it and keep it as a reminder of all that I have learned?  Or should I just resign myself to the fact that I should begin again?
I leave it to you fellow friends.  Should I toss it, or should I finish her up?

Merry Christmas

I am so excited this year.  Its the first Christmas that my little one will know what to do with gifts.  Now, I should add that we have gone through great lengths to ensure that he knows the true meaning of Christmas.  Its a birthday party, not a holiday.  The concept of Santa is still not too clear though.  Out attempt at getting a picture with Santa turned into an after school special featuring the Stranger Danger message.

Of course, it doesn't help that Santa's eyes are glowing red (he he he).  And, yes, that is me trying to get my DS to sit still.

On a happier note, I was able to get the ornaments I made for his teachers done.

The pattern is a freebie from The Sampler Girl.  You can find it on her blog here.  You will want many many things when you visit, so consider your self warned. ;)  I used DMC's variegated floss.  I forgot the numbers, but if anyone is interested, please email me.  I am so proud of these ornies.  Its my first attempt that this type of finish.  I know they are bit crooked, but that (to me) is one of the nice things about home made gifts.

I also want to take this moment to say Merry Christmas to everyone.  I want to say thank you to all of my bloggy buddies.  I would never have attempted to try any of the new finishes I have done this year, or try new types of fabric.  I have learned so much from everyone and can't wait to see what treasures everyone of of you creates next year (so I can copy you ;). 
Merry Christmas!!!!!!

My Favorite Elf

Hello All, not much stitching over the week-end, but lots of cleaning and Christmas decorating.  I have this insane need to clean everything including the walls before I put up Christmas decorations.  It keeps me sane and my house less embarrassing ;).  My house is in constant toy chaos - but I love my little elf.  I wouldn't change a thing.  I thank God everyday for giving me my son.  I am truly blessed.
As for the decorating.  I got half a room done.

Sorry about the clutter on the couch.  My DS will not let the box for the train go.  He likes to look at the pictures and play with the train at the same time.  He is a train fanatic.  Here are a few close ups of some of the treasures I have been given over the years.

This is an ornament my mother-in-law brought back from the Waterford Crystal company tour she took a few years ago.

Another she brought back from the White House two years ago.

I have a few of these crosses scattered through out the tree.  I am attracted to old fashioned things and these crosses were just perfect.  Miraculously, this tree and the main ornaments were all purchased almost 10 years ago when I was first married.  Even the strings of lights.  I consider it a gift from God who knows I am on a budget.  I have a few more I would like to share, but the pics are aw full.  I will do some retakes and get an update on the sock monkey next time.  The last pic is of the reason I put up all this stuff.  My favorite elf....

Footsie pajamas are my absolute favorite.  My DH told me he may have a line on a matching set for myself.  We will see how that goes.  I am not so sure my bottom is as cute as the one above. ;) 

Till next time, keep those needles sharp and the cocoa warm.

I'mmmm Baaaackk

Hello everyone,

First I would like to say hello to my new friends and the long timers.  I appreciate you following my blog, especially since its been a few months.  I had some personal turmoil and illnesses that made it impossible to do much more than was necessary.  But, I am back and in full swing.
On the Stitchy front, I haven't had much energy or time to get much done, but I did manage to finish this little guy.

Pirate Sock Monkey by Raise the Roof Designs

I used the recommended DMC threads and a Strawberry Linen that was new at my local LNS.  He is from the 2011 JCS Halloween Issue.  I have a thing for pirates due to the eye patches.  I was forced to wear one on and off through out the years for the various eye surgeries, so I have a special place in my heart and a bedazzler for them ;).  I was also able to begin the little sock monkey for my son.

Nickademus from Raise the Roof Designs

I am using all of the recommended DMC colors and a blue linen I was able to match up.  Its a bit muted compared to the pic in the magazine, but I like it.  Its from the 2010 JCS Christmas Ornament issue.  I meant to get this little guy done last year, but I am super duper slow.
Can you tell I like sock monkeys?  Who doesn't.  They are cute, cuddly, and machine washable.  Very valuable when you have a two year old.
Well, I know its not much, but I wanted to say hello to everyone and that I have been silently blog stalking you guys.  Everyone is so talented and I am super duper happy to be back.  Type to you soon.

WIPocalypse and TUSAL

Lots to share today.  First,  I am a couple of days late on my TUSAL.

Sorry for the mess on the table.  We are beginning potty training and you can see the little Cars potty in the background.  It really is adorable.  Anywho, still lots of greens in the jar.  I have determined that it must be my favorite color.  I can't help myself when I see it and all of my stitching seems to be in that color.

As for my current WIPs, I finally finished the pin keep stitching and just need to get it made up.  I will attempt to do it this week-end.  I was also able to get the second "Sisters" I was stitching done.  I have "Daughters" in the works, but I didn't like the pic.  All of my pics are really dark.

I will take a better pic of "Hello Spring" tomorrow.  The little pink dots are beads.  I didn't have buttons small enough for the pattern, and the beads add a bit of sparkle.  As for the materials, I used the recommended fabric and the DMC alternatives.  Same for "Sisters".

As for Halloween Rules, I did start over and only got through the pumpkin, BUT, what can I say?  I am loving (did I mention loving) the WDW and CC threads.  Its makes such a big difference.  The piece is going to be homey and I just can't wait to stitch more.  I will also try to get a better pic up on Friday.  I just can't seem to get the lighting in my house right, and the flash just destroys all of the color.

I have to say that the organized rotation has done a lot for my stress over working multiple projects.  I don't feel guilty and I am able to keep from getting bored.  So happy right now. ;)

I also recently came upon the WIPocalypse and decided its a must.  I would feel terrible not having all of my WIPs done (especially since my up for a challenge pieces are still in the works).  If you would like to join, just click on here.  Its sounds like loads of fun.

Well folks, that's it for today.  Keep those needles sharp and the frogs away.

And the winner is..................

So, I tried to decide on how to pick the next member of the Stitcherhood (yes, I am torchering you).  I thought about Internet programs and other electronic aides, when I spotted the perfect and most random way....
My almost two year old was sitting on the floor taking cars in and out of the bucket.  That's when it hit me.  He likes to take things out and in no systematic order to boot.  So, I decided to let the most impartial member of the family pick the winner.

So, here we go......

And the winner is..............................

Jane of Buttons & Stitches XXX

You can click on the name if you would like to see her blog and keep track of when its time to sign up again.  Congratulations Jane and please email me a jcroc0223@gmail.com with your address and any questions you may have.  And I apologize for not being able to show a pic of the actual slip with your name.  This is what happened next.

I grabbed it as quickly as possible and was able to read it, but all of the pics came out blurry and really light because it was so wet (he he he).

Well folks, that is it for today.  Keep those needles sharp and I will see you again soon. ;)

Feeling giddy

Have you ever come across a piece of art that you were just drawn to?  The subject matter or style may not be your normal cup of tea, but you have to admire what you see.  Its beauty just speaks for itself.  That happened to me this morning.  I normally like to browse through the Heaven and Earth Designs website for the new designs posted every morning.  I came across this extraordinary piece featuring a horse.  Now, mind you, I am rather intimidated by the large animals, but there was just something about this piece. 



Equus - Laurie Prindle from Heaven and Earth Designs

I think the sad eye is what caught me.  So, I caved.  It helps that there is a sale going on.  After printing out the pattern, another brilliant aspect was revealed.  There are purple and violet aspects to the piece that just shine.  This will have to be a project for next year , but I just had to comment and show my newest acquisition.  This is a piece I just can't wait to put together.  Not to mention it will be my first HAED piece so I am doing a bit of a happy dance.  We will see if it continues once I get started.
As for my current works in progress, I will have to post pics on Monday.  I left the camera at home.  I did get to finish the stitching on the pin keep and most of the second Lizzie Kate "Sisters" stitch.  Hopefully I can post two more finishes.
Don't forget that tomorrow is the last day to enter the Travelling Pattern drawing.  I wish everyone luck and will type to ya on Monday. ;)

A little update and some info

First I would like to say thank you for all of the wonderful comments I've received.  I also want to welcome my new followers.   I feel super important and can't wait to check out every one's blog.

I received a few requests for the colors I chose on "Life's a Stitch", so here ya go folks.....

Fabric: WDW Putty 30 ct.

All DMC Colors

Variegated #94 for the border

963 for the petals

223 for the center of the flowers

351 for the row under "Life's"

666 for the row under "A" and the heart

3363 for the leaves

937 for the words

Please excuse my misspellings.  Those of you who know me, know that I have a gift for misspelling and stumping spell check.  What can I say, I am truly gifted in that area. 

I also have an update on the pin keep I have been working on.  I am almost done with the stitching and am super stoked about having two finishes in one week.

I am using all of the recommended DMC alternatives.  I figure it will be handled a bunch and want to be able to spot wash as needed. 
As for the SAL I am working on, I am starting over.  I have been admiring every one's work using the over dyed colors and I have to do it.  I am heading over to my LNS to gather up the supplies and will begin again on Friday.  Hopefully I will be able to have a pic up next week.  Well, that's all for today folks.  See ya on Friday.

Traveling Pattern is Ready to go.........

Traveling Pattern is all Packed Up and Ready to go......

If you would you like to be part of this new Traveling Pattern here are the rules:

1. Comment on this post, saying you would like to be part of the Stitcherhood.

2. You agree (if you are chosen) to stitch the design and send it along to the next person in a timely manner. If this means dropping everything in your rotation to concentrate on this project...so be it. If you can't bring yourself to do this ~ don't sign up.

3. You must have an active blog to participate. If you have a blog but never post to it ~ you won't be chosen to be the next stitcher.

4. This is a giveaway-type Traveling Pattern. That means you must follow it from blogger to blogger to enter each time it is ready to send along. Commenting on this post doesn't make you a guaranteed part of the Stitcherhood.

The Traveling Pattern has been stitched by:

1. Angela, Hooked on Stitches, Ontario Canada

2. Elisa, Old Ragged Threads, United Kingdom

3. Loretta, Loretta's Stitching Blog, Manitoba, Canada

4. Silverlotus, Reflections in the Pond, Ontario, Canada

5. Erica, Erica's Places, Ontario, Canada

6. Joy, My New Perspective, Texas, USA

7. ???????????

If you would like a chance to be the next stitcher please leave a comment on this post only. The next stitcher will be chosen on Sunday, August 29, 2011 and announced on Monday, August 30, 2011. You have until Saturday night, August 28, 2011 to sign up. I will try to keep up with the travels and fill in the next stitcher in the list as it goes along.

As for the IHSW, this was my only stitch.  I re-did the border 8 times, and I am still off.  Its totally uneven, but I am going to leave it for now.  I have a finishing idea for it, and will do the other parts before going back to give the border another go.  I can't figure out what I did wrong, except use a larger count of fabric than the pattern called for.  Over all, it was a great stitch and I am really happy with the colors.  I will post the supplies I used on Wednesday.  The colors are quite a bit brighter than the pic shows. 

Good Luck to those of you who enter the next round of The Traveling Pattern ;).

Update

Hello fellow Stitchers.  I am soooooo sorry for the delay in updates, but something about this week just kicked my booty.  I was able to get most of the Traveling Pattern done and will make sure to finish this week-end. 

Traveling Pattern (Lizzie Kate)

I admit, that I wasn't excited about the choice in Red and may still change before its done, but I think its looking pretty good.  Its the first time I have stitched on 30 ct. fabric and I must admit, its tough.  I don't know how you guys do it.  I LOVE the result though.  Its looks clean and dainty.
As for my other projects, I let them go this week due to constant visitors and my DS deciding that he was in need of a playmate.  That's me.  How could I say no to this face....

Well folks, check back on Monday.  I will be done with the Traveling Pattern and post the rules for the next drawing.  Till then, keep the frogs away and your needles sharp ;)

Week-End Update

Hello Stitchers,  I hope everyone had a great week-end.  This past week-end was my birthday and I had a blast.  I got a couple of happy surprises and was able to get a bit of time away with my friends.
On Saturday, I received the Stitcherhood pattern and some flowers from my parents.

Please forgive the mess in the background.  That table never seems to be clutter free.  The flowers are beautiful and I am super grateful to my parents.  They are the sweetest.  I also received this little lovely in the mail (the pattern).

As promised, I dropped everything and I searched through my stash so I could get started.  I came up with this wonderful piece of fabric that I have been dying to use.  I finally have the perfect project for it.  I haven't completely committed to the red yet.  I am going to browse back through the other stitcher's blogs to get some ideas.  I was able to start it last night, so stay tuned folks.  I will post my finish soon and get it out to the next stitcher as soon as possible.

This next pic of an update of the pin keep I started.  I know, I know, I should be done, but I think I was a bit burned out after the snake stitch.  I am so glad that I have myself the break.  I had renewed vigor when I picked up my needle yesterday.

I do plan on getting the stitching done this next week-end as long as the Traveling Pattern is done.  I was also able to get the Halloween Rules fabric framed up so I can begin the stitch-a-long on the Lizzie Kate Lovers Blog. I am a week behind, BUT, I figure its OK. 

I am working on my stress over having more than one project on the go.  I am going to try an "organized" rotation.  I have read other blogs that show how it keeps them from getting board with the larger projects.  I think if I try to make a schedule, that I should be a bit less stressed out.  Cross your toes for me.  I do tend to get distracted.  I have also picked up some projects that are in need of finishing and have decided that I will have the Sisters and Daughters stitches done by the 27th so I can give to my baby sitter and her family, then I will concentrate on Summer House.   I will dedicate Monday's and Friday's to Halloween Rules so that I can finish up the other projects.  Once I have Sister's, Daughters, and Summer House Completed, I will frame up the Birth Sampler I received for Mother's Day and give that project a day until my Picture Stitch is completed.  I admit that I do not get to stitch every day, so I am not going to stress if I miss an opportunity to work on a project that week.  That is my new goal for this past birthday.  Reduce stress and keep my dining room table clutter free.  (That last one may take a lot of prayers).  Well folks, I will post my progress in a couple of days.  See you soon ;).

A Give A Way

Hello again,

I have a give a way to announce.  Its a blogaversary give-a-way from Lynn B.  I highly recommend her blog.  She is an amazing designer of so many fun things.  I have posted a pic below my profile.  Just click on the pic and it will take you to her blog.  You can also enter her give-a-way.

As for stitching, I was a bit distracted yesterday.  I received my Just Cross Stitch Halloween issue.  I had to borrower a drool cloth from my DS.  I love Halloween and all of the ornies are soooo wonderful.  I know I have other projects going, BUT, there is a pirate sock monkey from Raise the Roof Designs.  First, I should mention, that I am all about pirates.  I think it has to do with the fact that I had to wear an eye patch for 6 months.  I also love sock monkeys.  How can I possibly pass that up?  And thennnn........  its stitched on pink fabric.  What is a girl to do???????  Well, I know what I am going to end up doing.  Stitching another project not on my Crazy Challenge.  Think its too late to change my list?  I may make some inquires.  To those of you who have not received your copies, let me just say that you are in for a treat.
I have to get back to work now.  I need to earn my sock monkey money.
Till next time..... keep the needles sharp and the frogs at bay.

Fun in the Sun and The Stitcherhood.

Its been a few days since my last post, because I took my little one to the beach.  South Padre Island in Texas is the best.  Lots to do, and plenty of beach to play on.  My little one had the best time digging with his new little beach toys in the sand and actually let me bury his leg.  Not bad for a 23 month old with a shoe fetish.  We did have to rinse his water shoes every few minutes because he does not like for his shoes to be dirty.  I find it really funny that someone so young can already have those funny things kick in. 

He makes me laugh so much. 
On the stitchy side of things, I did not get as much done as I thought I would be able to.  The drive is about 5 hours and I sat in the back with my DS.  He developed an insatiable appetite on the ride there and back.  While we were there, we were so busy that it was really hard to get the needle and thread out.  I think I will have a bit of time today though.
I also have great news!!!!!!  I am officially in The Stitcherhood.  My name came up in the Travelling Pattern drawing.  I am sooooooooo excited.  I can't wait for it to arrive.  I may be pulling threads before it gets here.  I found some wonderful variegated colors and was just looking for the perfect project.  Now I have one (insert giddy laugh here).  I already heard from Erica at Erica's Places and she is posting it in the mail today.  Did I mention I am excited?
Well folks, back to the daily grind (of which I am grateful to have).  I will have more beach pics tomorrow and a little update on my pin keep.

Pin Keep it is......

Lizzie Kate "Hello Spring" freebie

This week end I chose to do the pin keep.  I can have the stitching finished in a couple of days and decided that I needed a quickie.  I apologize for the lighting.  I really need to work on better lighting in my home.  The home is old and has character, but really needs upgrading (project - he he he).  I love love love the colors.  They are so bright and really make me smile.  Not much else going on except for a nap and movie watching.  It was nice to take a break.  I also feel so relaxed now that my deadline stitching is done. 

 This is my TUSAL pic for Saturday.  I forgot to log on, but I have posted the side view and the top.  It finally got a few non greens in it over the week-end.

Well Folks, that's it for today.  Have a great week.

Another Finish

I am so proud and happy and everything in between.  I finished the Snake for Brody (Love Quilt).  I highly encourage everyone to see if they can help out.  Its a wonderful charity and allows stitchers to stitch things that they normally wouldn't.  For example, I never would have picked a snake, but I am really happy that I did.  It turned out really pretty.  Stoney Creek really does have an eye for detail.


Stoney Creek Reptiles & Amphibians

18 ct. White Aida

Used all recommended DMC colors

Began: May 15, 2011 and finished 07-27-11

The back stitching really made this little guy come to life.  I really like the fact that he looks like he is smiling too.  I should have mailed it out a day sooner, but my little guy took hold of the finished project after I took it off the frame (with dirty hands).  Major panic set in.  Two and a half months of work, and I thought it was ruined.  Thank the good Lord for Dawn (hypoallergenic).  Every little smudge came out.  My little guy was admiring it and just had to touch.  I just gave him a big hug and told him next time we will wash hands first.  He was so cute and I wish I had a pic of his face.  But with disaster avoided, its of in the mail and should arrive on Monday.
I have to say, that I will be taking a break today to rest my eye.  He was a bit more difficult than I anticipated, but worth every stitch.  I may consider stitching him again in a few years. 
I do have my next tiny project kitted up (except for one color).  I really need a pin keep.  I have some stuck in my pin cushion and keep getting poked when I put it up for the night.

I will be stitching up the Lizzie Kate freebie "Hello Spring".  I couldn't believe it when I found that fabbie in the sale pile at Hobby Lobby for almost nothing.  I took it as a sign that I should stitch up that pin keep (he he he).
Well folks, thanks for stopping by and stay tuned for my next stitchy adventure............ pin keep or project already in progress???????????

My Big Finish

I feel that the Star Wars theme should be playing at this moment.  I finished my first flat fold and managed to find the camera.  Whether or not the pics are OK, is another epic tale.  So without further adieu......

Lizzie Kate "A Sister"

Please forgive the mess in the back ground.  I was super excited and couldn't wait to take the pics.  I was able to complete this fine piece of work (yes, I am tooting my own horn) with the help of Vonna at The Twisted Stitcher.  Her tutorials page is linked to her blog.   A wonderful inspiration for so many projects.  If you haven't seen her blog, I highly recommend you take a gander.  Be warned, you will want many many things (he he he). 
I should mention its a bit crooked, but I figure with one eye and a handy hubby, it looks good (for a first try).  I may try cutting the boards for the next one myself to see if I can do it.  Thank goodness for 50% off coupons.  It makes experimenting really easy.
I also finished the stitching on my Anaconda last night.  I will be done with the back stitching sometime tomorrow so I can get that baby off in the mail.  I am so proud of that piece also.  Its by far, the most difficult piece I have stitched.  Confetti stitching now makes total sense to me.  I am in awe of those of you who have mastered the technique.
Well folks, that's it for today.  I will have an updated pic of my Anaconda and the supplies for the pin keep I will be working on over the week end later this week.  Thanks for stopping by.

An Update

Good Morning fellow bloggers.  Its been a bit since my last post.  Lots of stitching and a big finish.  I will have to post the pic of my finish tomorrow because I left the camera at home, but here is an update on the Anaconda.

He is almost done!!!!  Yeahhhhhh!!!!! I just need a bit of one coil and the back stitching.  This baby will be off in the mail no later than Thursday.  Two day priority mail is so great.  It makes getting the last details in less stressful.  I will be sad to see him go, but I am excited to get to another project.  It seems that I am in desperate need for a pin keep, so I am going to detour for a couple of days and get one made up.  I already have my supplies and will post a pic along with a pic of my very first flat fold.  I am rather impressed with my ability to follow directions.  I usually look at the pictures and try to figure it out, but this time I studied for days before getting started.  On another note, by little one and I are still getting along.  I have learned to read his signals better and he is starting to talk.  He runs around the house calling role.  Mama, Dada, Gaga (grand mother), Baba (grand mother), and a few other words that I am sure refer to the grand dads and his other grand mother.  He has three that are related and a few honorary ones.  Its a great feeling knowing he is loved by so many.  We are truly blessed. 
I have to go now, but I can't wait till I get my hands on that elusive camera.  I know its hiding right in front of me.

A Random Thought

A few weeks ago, my friend Joyze at Random Ramblings posed the question "Are you a project rotator or a one project at a time stitcher?".  If you haven't read her blog, I highly recommend you stop on by.  She is an amazing stitcher and really really funny. 
Well, I have been thinking about that question for a couple of weeks.  I always thought I was a rotator, BUT I realized I am a one at a time kind of girl.  I get stress out just knowing I have an unfinished stitch.  This doesn't count my UFO's.  I have a few, but I realized they are all on the sidelines because I couldn't see well when I started them.  I was also new at stitching.  I picked one of them up to take a look at how much was left to do and I need to frog quite a bit.  It turns out I wasn't aware that all the stitches should be facing  the same direction. 
Back to the subject......  I bring this up because I haven't posted in a while.  My dilemma is that I have only been working on the Stoney Creek Anaconda.  I figured you guys would be bored with just looking at updates for the same stitch over and over again.  I have been able to put in a few stitches every day, so I have progress, but I really don't know what I should do.  I would appreciate feed back.
On a higher note, I finally got my DH to cut the mounting boards for my Lizzy Kate flat fold.  My Mother will be coming over for dinner tonight, so I am going to ask her to help be glue up that baby.  I am really stoked.  mainly because of that stress I typed about earlier.  Having it unfinished really really bothers me.  I am also almost done with the second one.  I put it down so I could work on the Anaconda, but, I may make that my travel project.  That wouldn't bother me so much because I know I can't work on the other in the car (when my DH drives ;).  Well folks, I am not sure I made sense today, but that is what was on my mind.
Before I go, I also want to say thank you to all of you who gave me the great advise on the terrible two's.  It helped knowing how he sees the situation.  We are getting along much better now.  He even gave me a big hug and a kiss last night after his bath (which he loves). 

I'mmmm Baaaaack, a late TUSAL post, and a Give-A-Way link

Hello fellow bloggers, I am back.  I went through an audit at the office yesterday.  I have been so nervous that I let everything else go for a week.  Well, I got a perfect score and I am super proud.  I know I do everything humanly possible to make sure everything is done correctly, but the word audit just evokes nervousness.  So, now I am back, I have a couple of pics, a perfect score treat, a give-a-way to point you to and I have a needle back in my hand.

First off, I have an update for the Anaconda.  Not much done, but I have made more progress that I expected.  I am hoping to have pages 2 and three done by Sunday so I can get started on the final page.  That will give me three weeks to finish him up.  I am so excited.  Its the most difficult piece I have stitched and I am ready to try my hand at another toughie.

Next is a pic of a cute little guy I spotted in a tree at the zoo.  I took my little one back to the zoo on the 4th.  I am sure I am missing an entire section, because we missed the Bear's birthday party and I still haven't seen the seals. 

I think he was curious about the funny little box in my hand.  It made for a cute little pic.  I took a couple of other pics, but they were out of focus.  We let my little one run around so it was difficult getting good shots.  He did well though.  My MIL did have to wrestle with him to take a nap after, but I am proud of my little guy.  He did well in the heat and with molars coming in.

I almost forgot to post my pic of my TUSAL jar.  I took the picture on the 1st, but like I said, I was a bit preoccupied.

I took a pic of the top because the orts from the LK Cure ornie block out the sides.  I may rethink that choice and get rid of the fabbie.  I do think its pretty though.  Any thoughts?
As for my treat, I decided I deserved the Lizzie Kate Halloween Rules.  I have been eyeing the entire piece for a while and I just thought it would be grand.  The Lizzie Kate Lover's blog is having a stitch along starting next month.  Halloween Rules and 12 Blessings.  I do have some items I need to get done, but I will be stitching on it as I can.  I do have a birth sampler I can't wait to begin.  You can check out the blog here.
I forgot take a pic of the picture stitch I am working on.  I was supposed to have it ready for father's day, but as you well know, I am super duper slow and easily distracted.  Its still on my stitchy frame (one of many) and I am not going to work on my birth sampler until I get my projects listed last month done (well, I hope).
 

Give-A-Way Notice

 Purls of Wisdom is having a Lizzie Kate give-A-Way.  Check it out for a fun chance to win Life's A Beach.

I can't wait to update again on Monday, so see you soon and keep the frogs away.

Better Pic and a Thank You

First I want to say thank you to everyone who comments here.  It makes me feel glittery and special.  I have learned so much from my blogger buddies (especially about stitching).  Joyze and Mouse, thank you for your support.  I totally didn't know food could trigger migraines.  What a bummer.  Chocolate and Cheese, oh my..... Those are two of my favorite foods.  Although, I have to admit, that I don't think cheese likes me as much as I like it (he he he).  We must have had a falling out in my twenties. 
Well, I was able to get a better pic of my Anaconda.  A teeny weeny bit of progress last night, but my DS had a melt down and I had to put it up.  He has hit terrible two tantrum mode.  I am not sure how I am to survive. 

This pic is soooooo much better.  I feel better too, because I can tell its in focus.  Talk about panicking.  I wasn't even concerned with not being able to see, just not being able to stitch.  Its the one thing that I am very sure will get me through my DS's current behavioral stage.  I can put him to bed, start a book on my iPod, and get away at night. 
If all goes well, I should be able to get the things I wanted done last week-end, done this week-end.  Including a bit of cooking (mmmmmmmmm).  Happy Forth of July for those in the US.  I will be off for three days, so I will not post again until Tuesday the 5th.  I hope everyone has a happy and frog free week-end.

Long Time, No Post

Hellooo Friends,

I am sorry for being away for a bit, but I had some issues.  I seem to have developed migraines and am not sure why.  I am sure it has something to do with my eyes, but I am not going to get down about it.  My father also suffers from them, so I guess its to be expected.  So, that is why I have been away.  I have been trying to keep from staring at a computer unless necessary (for work).  I did get a bit of my Anaconda done, and am now on full force.  I have 3 weeks left so I have to get moving.  A little a day makes such a difference.  Here is my progress so far.  I am almost done with half of the pic.  I am hoping to be done with half this week end so I can get started on the other half on Sunday.

I apologize if its blurry.  It looks blurry to me, but I can't really tell these days.  I will post a better (hopefully updated) pic tomorrow.  I am hoping that daily updates during the week will help keep me going. 
Its really pretty in person.  I wish my camera could capture the greens.  Love, love, love the greens.
Well folks, that's all for today.  I will be back tomorrow with another not so exciting episode of to stitch or to get some new stash.

French Food - Updated

Last night I had a bout of insomnia.  The only good thing about insomnia (for me) is that I get to catch up on movies.  I was able to watch Julie & Julia.  Well.....  what can I say.  It inspired me, made me laugh, and made me wish I explored my writing.  I used to write all the time, but my immaturity took its toll and I got out of the habit.  BUT, enough of that!!!  I sooooo want to take up cooking.  Well, maybe throw in an actual recipe once a week for now.  I have my staples, but let's face it.  Nothing like the food in Julia Child's cook book.  I was lucky that my DS and I shared a blue berry muffin at the beginning of the movie because I undoubtedly would have been hungry by the end.  My poor baby seems to get insomnia with me.  He finally fell asleep and I continued with the movie.
Its a lovely film that I recommend, but I warn you now.  You will crave butter and maybe an adventure.  It helps that the main character writes a blog.  What better thing to blog about than a movie with blogging....  It also made me want to visit Paris.  I do love my little city, but an adventure would be nice.  The only problem is that I want to visit Paris in the 40's.  Everything was lovely in the 40's, well except maybe political strife, but fashion and cars, and manners were all so wonderful.  Its one of my favorite fashion eras.  Maybe I will just channel the time with picking up a copy of the cook book and trying my hand at the Beef Bourguignon.  I will of course need a new pot (I have been eyeing one I spotted at Walmart).  I know its not the ideal place to purchase cook ware, BUT this one is so pretty and a Paula Dean.  It MUST be good (he he he).  It takes about 2 1/2 hours to cook, so I will be doing this over the week end.
On the stitchy front, I finally have all of my supplies to do a flat fold.  It took two months of coupons to acquire all of it, but now that I have the expensive items, I know that I can do more with minimal cost.  Here is a pic of the fabric and the cording I purchased (well I tried to upload the pic).  It seems blogger is still having some issues.  I do hope they are able to fix them soon.  I am not sure that I want to learn another program.  But I am complaining again.  I will try again later today to get the picture up.  I will simply update this post.  Thank you for stopping by and wish me luck.  My kitchen and family may need the luck more than I do if this cooking inspiration keeps up.  ;)

It worked!!!!  Here is my pic.  :)

Promised Pics and an Update

Hello All,

Its been quite a few days since my last post.  I have been pouting over the fact that blogger is having an attitude.  I hate not being able to comment, and well, I admit.  I was a bit frustrated.  But I am renewed. 

I finally have that perfect frog I wrote about a couple of weeks ago. This is the frog I picture speaking to me in Clint Eastwood's voice.

I had a bit of a visit from him yesterday during my anaconda stitch.  I squished him and moved on. I just had to share this pic because its the perfect frog.

 

Next are a couple of other pics from our zoo trip.  Not many but I thought these were really pretty.

White tigers are my favorite animal, but the orange tigers always draw me in.  I can't remember what specific type of tiger this is.  I will be sure to check on my next visit.  The rhino was napping when we walked by.  I wish I were napping right now too.
These were taken from a good distance.  I am very impressed with my little Nikon. 
 

On the stitchy front, I don't have much except an update on the Anaconda for Brody for LQ.  Its starting to shape up.  You can see the first two coils of the body.  I hate to type this because I tend to stitch less during the week, but my deadline is coming up.  I am planning on having the second coil and the third finished today.  I need to finish this page by the end of this week so I can do the back stitching on Saturday.  There are four pages total.  Two of the pages are not too bad, but the other is just as full as this one.  I am soooooo glad I began this stitch when I did.



Stoney Creek "Anaconda"

Well folks, I have to get back to work so I can earn more stitchy funds.  I will post again tomorrow with hopefully another update.  

Short Post

Well folks, I know I owe you some pics and an update. I still have that on the go, but I have been really busy. My DS decided to take on a new sleep deprived, constant eating, and new attitude personality. He is still cute, but I think he is practicing for the terrible two's.

I have a pic of a finish I completed last Friday, and just wanted to post it. I am going to try the flat fold finish after all. I will have a pic as soon as I acquire the final supplies (hopefully this week-end).


Lizzy Kate "A Sister"

 Here she is. I am really happy with the way it turned out. I wish I had better lighting so you could see the pink flowers in the background. They are tiny but set off the design perfectly. I am half way through the second one for Mama Lu's other sister and then I will begin "Daughters" by Lizzy Kate for their mother.

I used the recommended fabric, 28 ct. Joblean Lambswool by Wichelt and the DMC alternatives. My DS loves touching the threads as I work, so I need something washable. I stitched over 2.

Next week I should be able to down load the zoo pics with that wonderful pic of the frog that I know haunts my stitching. and an update on the Love Quilt square. I also have some grass in my yard and new landscaping I need to share (just because its been a few days and is still living - he he he). Type to ya next week. Have a wonderful, stitchy filled week-end.

Totally Useless Post

Long Week-End

Hello All,

I had a super week-end.  We took my DS to so many places to have fun.  I will have to break this post into two since I have lots of pics and tons of stuff.  First, on Saturday, we took my DS to a new park.  It was really nice.  The place was clean and the slides were slick.  His favorite thing in the whole world is to slide.  He loves watching himself slide on the video camera too. 

 This first pic is of Cash and my DH getting ready for a big slide.  He was so excited.  I had to remind him to drink water and get his feet up so he could go fast.  He ran all around the set to get back onto a slide with his little arms up to gain momentum.  I love watching him run.  He had a choice of 4 slides and quickly decided that the one h loved best was the slide that he and I could go down together.  Made my heart melt.

.This next pic is Cash on the go (with daddy following).  I am not sure who had more fun.  We all took turns sliding.  I would add a pic of myself, but I am afraid my hair would scare you (he he eh).  We only stayed for an hour because it got to be 100 degrees by noon.  That's good ol' South Texas for ya.  You have to plan to do everything really early or you could get really really hot.  I also forgot the sun screen.  I really need to keep a small bottle in my bag.  He had such a great time and made a couple of new friends.  It was really neat also because we were close to a military base.  I am sure we owe our thanks to some of the parents there for their service. 



Lizzy Kate "A Sister"

On the stitchy front, I didn't get as much done as I wanted to.  I almost finished the stitch for my baby sitter.  I am hoping to get it done by Thursday, but its looking pretty good.  I will take a better pic tonight.  It rained a bit when I took this pic, so its filled with shadows.  I didn't get a chance to work on my LQ square, but I am on full force for the rest of the week.  I am determined to get it in early.

Well folks, that is it for today.  I have to get back to work so I can earn more stitching money.  A chore, but that darned lottery refuses to cooperate with my winning and retiring to stitch plans.  I will continue tomorrow with another stitchy pic and a trip to the zoo.

Updates and a Long Week-end Ahead

I FINALLY got the chance to take some stitchy pics BUT totally forgot to take pics of my darling little grass fuzz.  Its really adorable.  I have set an alarm on my phone to make sure that I take pics today so I can post them on Tuesday.  Yes, a three day week-end.  I should have plenty of pics and stories to tell.  I have some in-laws coming into town, so we should have lots of fun.  Today is also my DH's birthday.  His mother, step-father, my DS, and I are having a little dinner at our house.  Maybe I will get lucky and get a chance to take some family pics to post.  I am so bad about that.

On the stitchy front, I got a chance to start my ornies for my baby sitter and her family.  I only have one pic, but I am hoping to have at least one done by Tuesday.  I am a slow stitcher due to my vision issues, so any progress is good for me (he he he).



Stoney Creek Reptiles and Amphibians

This first pic is my progress on the Love Quilt Square for Brody.  You can see a bit of the tree in the center and I am still on my first coil of snake.  The colors are soooooo pretty.  I am a sucker for greens.  I know it doesn't look like much, but its coming along.  My goal of finishing page 1 by the end of May was a bit ambitious.  I began with the largest page of stitching, BUT I will have page 1 done by the end of the first week of June.  My hands are just itching for that birth sampler.



Lizzy Kate "Sisters"


This next pic is of Lizzie Kate's "Sisters Forever".  The colors are so pretty.  I am using the DMC alternatives.  Since my DS loves to touch the threads, I have to wash my stitching.  It's tough keeping the hands of a 20 month old clean.  Especially when his best friends are Yorkies.  Who knows what those three get into.  I am using 28 count Lambswool Jobelan.  I am really glad I decided to use the recommended fabric.  It makes that first color really jump out at you.  Too bad I don't have any sisters.  I would love to have one of these for myself.  I may have to break down and purchase "A Brother".  I am soooooo liking Lizzy Kate and U2 right now.  In case I have not mentioned it before.  I am a U2 freak.  I have been since the 6th grade.  I even remember having a crush on the Edge.  He is so my type and ironically does not look anything like my DH.  Go figure.

Well folks, that's it for today.  I will have some stitchy updates on Tuesday with hopefully some fabulous progress on both stitches.  And yes Joysze,  I am one of those who LOVES new starts, but I LOVE finishes even more (LOL).  Hopefully I will have a couple more finishes in the near future.  I have some great coupons from the local craft stores, so I will be gathering supplies for a flat fold finish soon.  Wish me luck and I hope everyone has a wonderful week-end.