on the SBQs! I have some time before I need to run some errands, so now would be a good time!
For 2.26.2008: What is your cross stitch weakness? (i.e., What do you have to have when you see it, even if you are supposed to be on the Wagon?)
I would have to say that one of my weaknesses is thread. There are so many colors and types out there, and I have to have them all. I am especially fond of silks, because they glide right through the fabric. And when I squeeze the skein there is a very satisfying crunchy sound that no one else understands! I probably have a few thousand dollars worth of just thread, because if I get one of a particular line, then I have to get all of them.
Another weakness I have is Christmas patterns, especially ornaments and snowmen. It's my favorite time of the year and I'm always on the lookout for really unique or pretty Christmas patterns. I mostly only stitch the ornaments, but I like to look through them, even if I might not ever stitch them.
For 2.13.2008: Do you have any projects that you have scrapped and started over? What made you start over from scratch?
I have several projects that I have scrapped for various reasons. Either I made a huge mistake and didn't have the energy to fix it, I ended up not liking the pattern as I stitched it, cut fabric threads by accident, my daughter wrote on it, or any other number of reasons. I did scrap one ornament because I messed it up when I was trying to be creative in sewing it to the backing fabric, and cute it right against the stitching. I will do this one again because I really liked the ornament. But I usually don't start them over unless it's a gift for someone else, so they just end up languishing in a drawer forever. After the next ice age, these projects will be found and they will end up in a museum in the Primitive Art wing.
For 2.6.2008: Are there other crafts that you have tried and abandoned? Why do you like stitching better?
I did try scrapbooking but really didn't like it. It is SO expensive to buy all the stickers and tags and paper and all the other goodies that make the pages look good. I thought my cross stitch habit was expensive, but the scrapbooking was ridiculous! Plus it was very stressful for me, when it should be relaxing. Trying to find just the right doo-dad to put on the page, or choosing the perfect picture, was making me lose my mind! I'll just stick to what I do best...following someone else's pattern.
Well, that's it for today kiddies,...
...as I'm sure that was more excitement than you can bear in one day!
2.27.2008
2.26.2008
I can't believe...
that February is almost gone already! Things have been so hectic and chaotic around here that I haven't had time to do much of anything. And forget about finishing anything.
My baby had her surgery on the 12th. The doctor went ahead and took out her tonsils along with the adenoids because they were bigger than what she thought. Plus her adenoids took up about 75 percent of her airway. My poor little baby girl did NOT do well after the surgery. She refused to eat and cried a lot of the time. Mostly she just wanted to snuggle in my lap. She started vomiting and couldn't keep down anything. She lost almost 5 pounds, and my whole family was beside themselves as to what to do. We thought she was going to have to go back to the hospital.
Luckily, she had no bleeding, just a ton of pain. She missed a week of school, and then I slowly got her back in for just a couple of hours for a few days. She still has a little bit of pain, but her throat is looking much better! Thank you so much to everyone who sent encouragement and prayers!
It's really difficult to edit a book when a 4 1/2 year old wants to be in your lap for two weeks, so I'm behind on both of my books. I've also started training to teach online courses, so that takes up most of my evenings. I have this week of training, then a week break, then two more weeks of training. But I would like if possible to get both of my books out by mid-March. Keeping my fingers crossed!
On the stitching side, I have gotten to stitch a bit on Desiderata. Within the next couple of days I will post a picture of the first section. I have to say that I love it and it's looking gorgeous! I'm really enjoying this piece. Still waiting on my thread for my hardangar heart for the Bride's Tree SAL though :(
For the first time, I have been tagged by Olenka.
THE RULES:
1. Once you are tagged, link back to the person who tagged you.
2. Post THE RULES on your blog.
3. Post 7 weird or random facts about yourself on your blog.
4. Tag 7 people and link to them.
5. Comment on their blog to let them know they have been tagged.
Here a 7 weird or random facts about me:
1. My eyes are two different colors. They are both blue, but the left one is blue on the bottom half and greenish gold on the top half. A doctor told me that one day my left eye could very well become all greenish gold.
2. I have five tattoos and two piercings (not my ears).
3. I absolutely hate the smell and taste of celery. It tastes like soap to me. So of course my parents make everything with celery!
4. I wanted to be a veterinarian since I was in preschool. Until I got to college and couldn't pass chemistry.
5. I wanted to see the original Texas Chainsaw Massacre when I was five years old. I haven't lost my love of horror movies one bit!
6. I'm obsessive about my handwriting. I had trouble finishing things in school because I would restart everything if I didn't like my handwriting. Unfortunately, that has crossed over into much everything else I do.
7. The first car I bought was a little green Ford Festiva. They don't even make those any more! I named it "Little Green Roach-Mobile." How lame.
I won't tag anyone, because most people I know have already been tagged for this one. But if you are reading this and haven't been tagged...
...you are now!
My baby had her surgery on the 12th. The doctor went ahead and took out her tonsils along with the adenoids because they were bigger than what she thought. Plus her adenoids took up about 75 percent of her airway. My poor little baby girl did NOT do well after the surgery. She refused to eat and cried a lot of the time. Mostly she just wanted to snuggle in my lap. She started vomiting and couldn't keep down anything. She lost almost 5 pounds, and my whole family was beside themselves as to what to do. We thought she was going to have to go back to the hospital.
Luckily, she had no bleeding, just a ton of pain. She missed a week of school, and then I slowly got her back in for just a couple of hours for a few days. She still has a little bit of pain, but her throat is looking much better! Thank you so much to everyone who sent encouragement and prayers!
It's really difficult to edit a book when a 4 1/2 year old wants to be in your lap for two weeks, so I'm behind on both of my books. I've also started training to teach online courses, so that takes up most of my evenings. I have this week of training, then a week break, then two more weeks of training. But I would like if possible to get both of my books out by mid-March. Keeping my fingers crossed!
On the stitching side, I have gotten to stitch a bit on Desiderata. Within the next couple of days I will post a picture of the first section. I have to say that I love it and it's looking gorgeous! I'm really enjoying this piece. Still waiting on my thread for my hardangar heart for the Bride's Tree SAL though :(
For the first time, I have been tagged by Olenka.
THE RULES:
1. Once you are tagged, link back to the person who tagged you.
2. Post THE RULES on your blog.
3. Post 7 weird or random facts about yourself on your blog.
4. Tag 7 people and link to them.
5. Comment on their blog to let them know they have been tagged.
Here a 7 weird or random facts about me:
1. My eyes are two different colors. They are both blue, but the left one is blue on the bottom half and greenish gold on the top half. A doctor told me that one day my left eye could very well become all greenish gold.
2. I have five tattoos and two piercings (not my ears).
3. I absolutely hate the smell and taste of celery. It tastes like soap to me. So of course my parents make everything with celery!
4. I wanted to be a veterinarian since I was in preschool. Until I got to college and couldn't pass chemistry.
5. I wanted to see the original Texas Chainsaw Massacre when I was five years old. I haven't lost my love of horror movies one bit!
6. I'm obsessive about my handwriting. I had trouble finishing things in school because I would restart everything if I didn't like my handwriting. Unfortunately, that has crossed over into much everything else I do.
7. The first car I bought was a little green Ford Festiva. They don't even make those any more! I named it "Little Green Roach-Mobile." How lame.
I won't tag anyone, because most people I know have already been tagged for this one. But if you are reading this and haven't been tagged...
...you are now!
2.04.2008
What a great start...
for February!
First let me say that the Giants were awesome last night! That was one of the best Super Bowls I've seen in years, and my dad and I were yelling ourselves hoarse the whole time. Eli made some great plays, and I'm so happy he got out of big brother's shadow. The Patriots needed to be taken down from their pedestal, and Tom Brady and Bill Belichick found out that they are not invincible. I can't believe that Belichick walked off the field before the game was over. What a poor loser!
And House was on after the game! It was a really good episode, and it really threw me for a loop. That's one of my favorite shows, and I plan on getting them on dvd. What a great tv night it was last night!
I also got my February ornament for the Bride's Tree SAL *almost* finished. It's a hardanger heart, and I got everything done down to the cut threads, until I realized that I had bought the wrong size of perle coton to do the wrapping, weaving, and dove's eyes. So I had to order the thread. But that's ok, because I'm way ahead of the game. Whoot!
Today is TW Monday, so *maybe* I'll finish my brother-in-law's ornament. Although I have two books to work on today, so I don't know how much stitching I'll actually get done.
So, I guess I'd better get started on the books. No time for a nap, no time for stitching, no time for working on calligraphy samples. How is it that I don't have a job...
...but I still have to work?
First let me say that the Giants were awesome last night! That was one of the best Super Bowls I've seen in years, and my dad and I were yelling ourselves hoarse the whole time. Eli made some great plays, and I'm so happy he got out of big brother's shadow. The Patriots needed to be taken down from their pedestal, and Tom Brady and Bill Belichick found out that they are not invincible. I can't believe that Belichick walked off the field before the game was over. What a poor loser!
And House was on after the game! It was a really good episode, and it really threw me for a loop. That's one of my favorite shows, and I plan on getting them on dvd. What a great tv night it was last night!
I also got my February ornament for the Bride's Tree SAL *almost* finished. It's a hardanger heart, and I got everything done down to the cut threads, until I realized that I had bought the wrong size of perle coton to do the wrapping, weaving, and dove's eyes. So I had to order the thread. But that's ok, because I'm way ahead of the game. Whoot!
Today is TW Monday, so *maybe* I'll finish my brother-in-law's ornament. Although I have two books to work on today, so I don't know how much stitching I'll actually get done.
So, I guess I'd better get started on the books. No time for a nap, no time for stitching, no time for working on calligraphy samples. How is it that I don't have a job...
...but I still have to work?
1.31.2008
It's finally hit me...
this cold that is. I've been fighting it off for a while, and I woke up today feeling like I've been hit by a truck. My nose is running, my head hurts, my body aches, I'm constantly coughing and sneezing, I can't breathe, I can't talk. Well, you get the picture.
I'm assuming this cold is the reason that I haven't felt like doing much lately. I've messed around with my calligraphy blog, took long naps, and basically neglected my freelance editing and my stitching. I have played about 4,000 games of bingo though!
I was going to answer the latest SBQ, but there isn't one yet, so I'll just go pass out until my doctor's appointment later today. Maybe tonight I'll have something interesting to write about (it's not as if I usually do though lol!).
I really hate cold season!
I'm assuming this cold is the reason that I haven't felt like doing much lately. I've messed around with my calligraphy blog, took long naps, and basically neglected my freelance editing and my stitching. I have played about 4,000 games of bingo though!
I was going to answer the latest SBQ, but there isn't one yet, so I'll just go pass out until my doctor's appointment later today. Maybe tonight I'll have something interesting to write about (it's not as if I usually do though lol!).
I really hate cold season!
1.27.2008
Procrastination...
is my middle name!
I haven't felt like doing much lately, except wasting my time playing bingo for a jackpot that I've been trying to win since 1996. I did get my calligraphy site running, but there's just so much I need to do on it. This seems to be my lifetime habit: jump into everything with both feet and then get overwhelmed because I'm not sure where to start.
So, I haven't stitched but maybe two words on Desiderata since I finished my house ornament. I just feel blah.
SBQ for 1.23.2008: Have you had a happy dance yet this year? If so, tell us about it! (Or just point to the entry that mentions it.) If not, when do you predict it will be?
Yes, I've had a happy dance on the house ornament. But maybe I should consider it half of a happy dance, because it hasn't been ornamentified yet. I've really got to finish my brother-in-law's ornament (insert big pathetic sigh here).
Maybe I'll go watch Spongebob with Aislin...
...so I don't have to expend but half a brain cell for that.
I haven't felt like doing much lately, except wasting my time playing bingo for a jackpot that I've been trying to win since 1996. I did get my calligraphy site running, but there's just so much I need to do on it. This seems to be my lifetime habit: jump into everything with both feet and then get overwhelmed because I'm not sure where to start.
So, I haven't stitched but maybe two words on Desiderata since I finished my house ornament. I just feel blah.
SBQ for 1.23.2008: Have you had a happy dance yet this year? If so, tell us about it! (Or just point to the entry that mentions it.) If not, when do you predict it will be?
Yes, I've had a happy dance on the house ornament. But maybe I should consider it half of a happy dance, because it hasn't been ornamentified yet. I've really got to finish my brother-in-law's ornament (insert big pathetic sigh here).
Maybe I'll go watch Spongebob with Aislin...
...so I don't have to expend but half a brain cell for that.
1.24.2008
I think I've had a semi-productive week...
even if the week isn't over yet.
I got my federal AND state taxes filed, applied for health insurance for me and Aislin, and finished an ornament ahead of time (although I still haven't finished my brother-in-law's). Plus, I have my heart ornament picked out for next month! It's a hardanger heart, and I'm starting it on February 1st!
Aislin had an appointment with the ear, nose, and throat doctor yesterday. She has to have her adenoids removed on February 12th. I know it's a rather routine surgery, but I'm scared to death! She's only 4; just a baby! I'm worrying so much that I'm giving myself a migraine. But it's something that has to be done. She snores and has sleep apnea, she breathes and eats with her mouth open, and has bad breath no matter how much we brush her teeth. I hope it makes her feel better, but I'll be so happy when the surgery is over!
One thing I need to get working on is my calligraphy business. I have the business card done, I just need to make up a brochure with some of my samples and a price list to send out to stationary stores. Plus I need someone to develop a professional website for me, but I can't afford to pay anyone to do it right now. For the moment, I have a blogspot page for my calligraphy:
An Ornamental Quill
I think it looks pretty good for a beginning. I'm sure it won't generate much business as a blog, instead of a real store-type website. But...
...it's a start!
I got my federal AND state taxes filed, applied for health insurance for me and Aislin, and finished an ornament ahead of time (although I still haven't finished my brother-in-law's). Plus, I have my heart ornament picked out for next month! It's a hardanger heart, and I'm starting it on February 1st!
Aislin had an appointment with the ear, nose, and throat doctor yesterday. She has to have her adenoids removed on February 12th. I know it's a rather routine surgery, but I'm scared to death! She's only 4; just a baby! I'm worrying so much that I'm giving myself a migraine. But it's something that has to be done. She snores and has sleep apnea, she breathes and eats with her mouth open, and has bad breath no matter how much we brush her teeth. I hope it makes her feel better, but I'll be so happy when the surgery is over!
One thing I need to get working on is my calligraphy business. I have the business card done, I just need to make up a brochure with some of my samples and a price list to send out to stationary stores. Plus I need someone to develop a professional website for me, but I can't afford to pay anyone to do it right now. For the moment, I have a blogspot page for my calligraphy:
An Ornamental Quill
I think it looks pretty good for a beginning. I'm sure it won't generate much business as a blog, instead of a real store-type website. But...
...it's a start!
1.21.2008
It's a house...
although it looks much prettier in person. This is the January ornament for the Bride's Tree SAL. I think my scanner is putting too much light into the scans, but when I try to fix it, it just gets worse. But this is stitched in the most yummy warm shades of browns and tans.
One down, eleven to go!
Victorian Cottage Ornament
designed by Nancy Spruance
stitched on 28 ct antique white Monaco with DMC color variations
YAY ME!
One down, eleven to go!
Victorian Cottage Ornament
designed by Nancy Spruance
stitched on 28 ct antique white Monaco with DMC color variations
YAY ME!
It's Giants versus Patriots...
on February 3rd. I watched the NFC playoff game last night, holding my breath and biting my tongue until the very last second of overtime. I absolutely HATE the Green Bay Packers and am so glad the Super Bowl will only be half a suck-fest this year, as I hate the Patriots just as much. Of course, if the Packers had won, I would have had to stay true to my conference and kinda root for them. But MY babies didn't even get close, and I was hoping the Cowboys would have gone on. Dad and I are supportive of each other's teams if our own team doesn't do well.
I was raised in a fanatical Cowboys family, and have heard many a time the story of the dreaded *Ice Bowl* of 1967. My dad tells the story at least 12 times every football season about how his 'boys had to kick holes in the ice with their cleats at the Green Bay end zone just to get traction. Of course the Cowboys lost that game, and that was one of the catalysts to Super Bowls only being played in southern cities.
Anyway, on the stitching front, true to my personality I got bored with Guardian. I was hoping to work on him all weekend and into TW Monday, but I couldn't do it. I did get a whole 5 days in on him though.
So, I decided to work on my sister's house ornament for the Bride's Tree SAL. Yes, I actually found one that I liked fairly well. It's a blackwork house, but instead of black, I'm using the DMC Color Variations I bought to do ornaments for Christmas. This one is various shades of brown and tan and I love this color! I may even finish it today! I'll finish my brother-in-law's ornament today too (I hope!).
I'm getting ready to get a haircut. My hair is almost to my waist now, but I'm going to cut it off to my shoulders. I can't stand my hair that long anymore; it's just a pain. Aislin's getting a haircut today too. She says she wants "beautiful hair." It's really cute the way she says it. I long for the days...
...when a haircut was the most exciting thing going on in my life.
I was raised in a fanatical Cowboys family, and have heard many a time the story of the dreaded *Ice Bowl* of 1967. My dad tells the story at least 12 times every football season about how his 'boys had to kick holes in the ice with their cleats at the Green Bay end zone just to get traction. Of course the Cowboys lost that game, and that was one of the catalysts to Super Bowls only being played in southern cities.
Anyway, on the stitching front, true to my personality I got bored with Guardian. I was hoping to work on him all weekend and into TW Monday, but I couldn't do it. I did get a whole 5 days in on him though.
So, I decided to work on my sister's house ornament for the Bride's Tree SAL. Yes, I actually found one that I liked fairly well. It's a blackwork house, but instead of black, I'm using the DMC Color Variations I bought to do ornaments for Christmas. This one is various shades of brown and tan and I love this color! I may even finish it today! I'll finish my brother-in-law's ornament today too (I hope!).
I'm getting ready to get a haircut. My hair is almost to my waist now, but I'm going to cut it off to my shoulders. I can't stand my hair that long anymore; it's just a pain. Aislin's getting a haircut today too. She says she wants "beautiful hair." It's really cute the way she says it. I long for the days...
...when a haircut was the most exciting thing going on in my life.
1.19.2008
I got toys...
in the mail today from Diana at Paw Prints! I got some stitch clips because I put Desiderata on a scroll frame, and I like my fabric to be drum tight. Then, I got a Tacky Bob since Aislin keeps dumping my beads everywhere. It's like a mini cd case with sticky stuff on the inside so that the beads stick to it. There wasn't a choice as to color or pattern, but I got one with butterflies, which is fine by me because I LOVE butterflies.
I can't wait to try out my new toys! I was feeling a bit down today, but it's amazing what a package in the mail can do for you!
I've been working on Guardian for the last week. Mom let me borrow her needle organizer, since most of my stitching stuff is in storage. I use it mostly for the blends, and since Guardian is mostly blends, it's a life saver! I still have to finish my brother-in-law's ornament for last year, which I think I will do on TW Monday. But I'm going to work on Guardian for the rest of the weekend. I'll post a progress pic probably Monday.
My neice's birth sampler needs to go back on the Q-snaps, because it needs to be finished and framed by April 30th, so I can get it to my sister before my neice's 1st birthday on May 12th. So until that is done, I will make that my focus piece, but work on Desiderata when I can't stand the birth sampler anymore.
I will still work on Guardian on TW Mondays and the dragon SAL one weekend a month.
On the Bride's Tree SAL front, I still haven't found a house (January) I like. It's really frustrating. I guess I should probably say I like too many patterns and I can't actually narrow it down to just one. Maybe that's why I have soooo much stitching stuff and patterns...I can't make up my mind as to what I can't live without as opposed to just liking something.
SBQ for 1.16.2008: What is your favorite past time while stitching? Do you just enjoy silence, listen to music/audiobooks or do you “watch” TV/movies? Do you have specific favorites you listen to/watch while stitching?
I usually have the tv or a movie going when I stitch. If it's on one of my "show" days, I watch American Idol, Bones and House, Ghost Hunters. Sometimes I just have on whatever channel I come to that looks semi-interesting if none of my shows are on.
On weekends, Alyssa and I watch a movie (usually her choice) while I stitch. Sometimes during the week we'll watch her "Friends" dvds.
I tend to not do much else while I stitch. Silence is too intimidating for me, and I always have to have some kind of background noise. I can watch TV and concentrate on my stitching but still keep up with what's going on.
I just looked outside, and it's snowing! Aislin is running around the house screaming, "It's snowing! It's snowing!"
Children are so easily entertained.
I can't wait to try out my new toys! I was feeling a bit down today, but it's amazing what a package in the mail can do for you!
I've been working on Guardian for the last week. Mom let me borrow her needle organizer, since most of my stitching stuff is in storage. I use it mostly for the blends, and since Guardian is mostly blends, it's a life saver! I still have to finish my brother-in-law's ornament for last year, which I think I will do on TW Monday. But I'm going to work on Guardian for the rest of the weekend. I'll post a progress pic probably Monday.
My neice's birth sampler needs to go back on the Q-snaps, because it needs to be finished and framed by April 30th, so I can get it to my sister before my neice's 1st birthday on May 12th. So until that is done, I will make that my focus piece, but work on Desiderata when I can't stand the birth sampler anymore.
I will still work on Guardian on TW Mondays and the dragon SAL one weekend a month.
On the Bride's Tree SAL front, I still haven't found a house (January) I like. It's really frustrating. I guess I should probably say I like too many patterns and I can't actually narrow it down to just one. Maybe that's why I have soooo much stitching stuff and patterns...I can't make up my mind as to what I can't live without as opposed to just liking something.
SBQ for 1.16.2008: What is your favorite past time while stitching? Do you just enjoy silence, listen to music/audiobooks or do you “watch” TV/movies? Do you have specific favorites you listen to/watch while stitching?
I usually have the tv or a movie going when I stitch. If it's on one of my "show" days, I watch American Idol, Bones and House, Ghost Hunters. Sometimes I just have on whatever channel I come to that looks semi-interesting if none of my shows are on.
On weekends, Alyssa and I watch a movie (usually her choice) while I stitch. Sometimes during the week we'll watch her "Friends" dvds.
I tend to not do much else while I stitch. Silence is too intimidating for me, and I always have to have some kind of background noise. I can watch TV and concentrate on my stitching but still keep up with what's going on.
I just looked outside, and it's snowing! Aislin is running around the house screaming, "It's snowing! It's snowing!"
Children are so easily entertained.
1.12.2008
Here's something fun...
that I *borrowed* from a few various blogs. It's an "About me in pictures."
Answer the questions and type your answer into Google images search. Post a photo from the FIRST results page. (this can be tough!!)
Age you will be on your next birthday?
Place you would like to visit? (Ireland)
One of your favorite places?
Your favorite object? (yummy silk thread!)
Your favorite food? (angel hair pasta with artichoke hearts lol!)
Your favorite animal?
Your favorite color? (forest green)
Name of a past pet? (Shadow)
Where you live?
First grade teacher's name? (Mrs. Glendamen)
Couldn't find anything.
Middle name? (Leanne) WHAT THE...?
A bad habit of yours? (I pick at and chew on my cuticles)
Favorite flower? (carnations)
Favorite holiday? (supposed to be Christmas?)
Your turn!
Answer the questions and type your answer into Google images search. Post a photo from the FIRST results page. (this can be tough!!)
Age you will be on your next birthday?
Place you would like to visit? (Ireland)
One of your favorite places?
Your favorite object? (yummy silk thread!)
Your favorite food? (angel hair pasta with artichoke hearts lol!)
Your favorite animal?
Your favorite color? (forest green)
Name of a past pet? (Shadow)
Where you live?
First grade teacher's name? (Mrs. Glendamen)
Couldn't find anything.
Middle name? (Leanne) WHAT THE...?
A bad habit of yours? (I pick at and chew on my cuticles)
Favorite flower? (carnations)
Favorite holiday? (supposed to be Christmas?)
Your turn!
1.11.2008
Yeah, I really hate insurance companies...
but that's another story! I thought I would catch up on some SBQs because I don't feel like I have anything witty or even remotely interesting to talk about. Well, I do, but I don't want to turn this into a rant today (of course that hasn't stood in my way on other days, now has it?)
SBQ for 1.9.2008: What was your favorite finish of 2007?
This question makes me giggle a bit and scratch my head, because I finished all of 3, yes 3 ornaments. That's it. Nothing else. I DID NOT stitch until the end of the year. So I would have to say the answer to this question is all 3 ornaments, for different reasons. But mostly because I know I can still stitch, and that a stitching slump doesn't have to last forever!
SBQ for 1.3.2008: Are you starting something new to celebrate the New Year or participating in “Guilt Free January?” If so, what are you planning on starting?
Actually I started Desiderata Sampler sometime in November of last year, so I am considering that my New Year's celebration. If I participated in Guilt-Free January, I would have another 47 projects going in addition to what I already have. So I am limiting myself to what I am allowed to do this year. The only new start I have is going to be the Bride's Tree Ornaments SAL, but I don't know that I would really consider that a *new* start, because it's an ornament a month, which is part of my 2008 goals.
SBQ for 12.26.2007: Did you receive any stitching-related gifts for the holidays?
Actually, I really didn't this year, which is surprising. I usually get a GC to an LNS or ONS or various stitching related things. The only gifts I got that were remotely close were from my sister. She got me a few tubes of gorgeous beads (too big for using on stitching projects though), and vintage (pre WWII) swarovski crystals (I LOVE THEM!). Plus, she sent me a bead a day calendar, which has a different beading project for every day of the year.
Now that I think about it, those aren't even CLOSE to being stitching-related...
SBQ for 12.19.2006: Have you ever helped anyone else learn to stitch? Have you ever helped anyone learn a new stitch or technique?
I did try to teach my oldest daughter how to stitch a few years ago, but it didn't go very well. She was very good at it, but didn't find any designs that appealed to her. I suggested that she substitute her own colors, or modify the design a little to suit her needs (and reassured her that most stitchers do this). As an *ar-TEEST*, the thought of changing someone else's art was completely mortifying to her. I understand that.
Well, that's all I feel like discussing. I feel a migraine coming on (thank you so much insurance people!). I probably need to eat something, so as Donkey says...
"...I'm making waffles!"
SBQ for 1.9.2008: What was your favorite finish of 2007?
This question makes me giggle a bit and scratch my head, because I finished all of 3, yes 3 ornaments. That's it. Nothing else. I DID NOT stitch until the end of the year. So I would have to say the answer to this question is all 3 ornaments, for different reasons. But mostly because I know I can still stitch, and that a stitching slump doesn't have to last forever!
SBQ for 1.3.2008: Are you starting something new to celebrate the New Year or participating in “Guilt Free January?” If so, what are you planning on starting?
Actually I started Desiderata Sampler sometime in November of last year, so I am considering that my New Year's celebration. If I participated in Guilt-Free January, I would have another 47 projects going in addition to what I already have. So I am limiting myself to what I am allowed to do this year. The only new start I have is going to be the Bride's Tree Ornaments SAL, but I don't know that I would really consider that a *new* start, because it's an ornament a month, which is part of my 2008 goals.
SBQ for 12.26.2007: Did you receive any stitching-related gifts for the holidays?
Actually, I really didn't this year, which is surprising. I usually get a GC to an LNS or ONS or various stitching related things. The only gifts I got that were remotely close were from my sister. She got me a few tubes of gorgeous beads (too big for using on stitching projects though), and vintage (pre WWII) swarovski crystals (I LOVE THEM!). Plus, she sent me a bead a day calendar, which has a different beading project for every day of the year.
Now that I think about it, those aren't even CLOSE to being stitching-related...
SBQ for 12.19.2006: Have you ever helped anyone else learn to stitch? Have you ever helped anyone learn a new stitch or technique?
I did try to teach my oldest daughter how to stitch a few years ago, but it didn't go very well. She was very good at it, but didn't find any designs that appealed to her. I suggested that she substitute her own colors, or modify the design a little to suit her needs (and reassured her that most stitchers do this). As an *ar-TEEST*, the thought of changing someone else's art was completely mortifying to her. I understand that.
Well, that's all I feel like discussing. I feel a migraine coming on (thank you so much insurance people!). I probably need to eat something, so as Donkey says...
"...I'm making waffles!"
1.04.2008
I love my new toy, but...
Mac does not like blogs. Especially mine. Things are overlapping and totally funky-monkey looking. Big sigh.
I went through a large box of pictures today. Apparently, *someone* went through them before I went back to NM to get them, after I had moved to NC and was in the process of a separation. I got more irate by the minute, because a bunch of pictures of my babies, including Aislin's ultrasound pictures, were wadded up and thrown into the box. I reorganized everything, labeled all of the envelopes, and put everything into a smaller box.
I got a picture box and put all of the pictures of Justin and his family (with and without Aislin) in the box for when she's older.
I also found many pictures of my beloved Shadow. I haven't so much as looked at a picture of her since she died August 19, 2006. It was just too painful. I thought it has been long enough, but my heart is aching and my chest feels tight. When does the pain and sadness of losing a beloved pet and best friend go away. Sometimes it's so overwhelming.
I haven't stitched in a few days. I need to finish my brother in law's ornament, but I'm losing stitching motivation again. Most likely because I have so much to do that I just don't know where to start.
I'll be working on TW's Guardian several times a month: On Mondays for the general TW SAL, and the 3rd(?) weekend of the month for the dragon SAL at TW's discussion board. Maybe I'll get more done on him. I am bound and determined that by December 31st, 2008...
...that dragon is going to be finished and ready to frame!
I went through a large box of pictures today. Apparently, *someone* went through them before I went back to NM to get them, after I had moved to NC and was in the process of a separation. I got more irate by the minute, because a bunch of pictures of my babies, including Aislin's ultrasound pictures, were wadded up and thrown into the box. I reorganized everything, labeled all of the envelopes, and put everything into a smaller box.
I got a picture box and put all of the pictures of Justin and his family (with and without Aislin) in the box for when she's older.
I also found many pictures of my beloved Shadow. I haven't so much as looked at a picture of her since she died August 19, 2006. It was just too painful. I thought it has been long enough, but my heart is aching and my chest feels tight. When does the pain and sadness of losing a beloved pet and best friend go away. Sometimes it's so overwhelming.
I haven't stitched in a few days. I need to finish my brother in law's ornament, but I'm losing stitching motivation again. Most likely because I have so much to do that I just don't know where to start.
I'll be working on TW's Guardian several times a month: On Mondays for the general TW SAL, and the 3rd(?) weekend of the month for the dragon SAL at TW's discussion board. Maybe I'll get more done on him. I am bound and determined that by December 31st, 2008...
...that dragon is going to be finished and ready to frame!
1.01.2008
I just got...
the absolutely coolest Christmas present ever!
My parents got back from visiting my sister yesterday evening, and a package had come for mom while they were gone. I thought nothing of it, because she gets a lot of teaching materials and books in the mail. Said package sat in the formal dining room, awaiting my parents' return.
Meanwhile, after we picked them up at the airport, they were unpacking their suitcases, and mom pulled out a huge shopping bag. She said "We were out shopping and I saw a man carrying this. I asked him where he got it, but he said it was the last one. So I knocked him down and ran off with it!" (Mom has a very strange sense of humor.) So she hands me the bag, and inside is a gigantic, OFFICIAL St. Louis Rams fleece blanket. Of course I squealed and wrapped up in it right away. My girls keep wanting to steal it.
Then, mom got the package that came while she was gone. She put it on the kitchen table and asked if I knew what it was. I said I had no idea. She told me to open it. I open this little box and inside is a MacBook. I said "Neat! You got a new laptop." She said, "No, YOU got a new laptop!" I was pretty stunned and I just stared at her with her mouth open.
Apparently, my parents got me a new laptop for my freelancing work, and for my businesses. My brother-in-law is going to rebuild my old laptop, and try to get the cd rom working again. Then, Alyssa will have her own computer! She's just as excited as I am I think.
But now I have some more things to add to my wishlist...
...new toys for my new Mac!
My parents got back from visiting my sister yesterday evening, and a package had come for mom while they were gone. I thought nothing of it, because she gets a lot of teaching materials and books in the mail. Said package sat in the formal dining room, awaiting my parents' return.
Meanwhile, after we picked them up at the airport, they were unpacking their suitcases, and mom pulled out a huge shopping bag. She said "We were out shopping and I saw a man carrying this. I asked him where he got it, but he said it was the last one. So I knocked him down and ran off with it!" (Mom has a very strange sense of humor.) So she hands me the bag, and inside is a gigantic, OFFICIAL St. Louis Rams fleece blanket. Of course I squealed and wrapped up in it right away. My girls keep wanting to steal it.
Then, mom got the package that came while she was gone. She put it on the kitchen table and asked if I knew what it was. I said I had no idea. She told me to open it. I open this little box and inside is a MacBook. I said "Neat! You got a new laptop." She said, "No, YOU got a new laptop!" I was pretty stunned and I just stared at her with her mouth open.
Apparently, my parents got me a new laptop for my freelancing work, and for my businesses. My brother-in-law is going to rebuild my old laptop, and try to get the cd rom working again. Then, Alyssa will have her own computer! She's just as excited as I am I think.
But now I have some more things to add to my wishlist...
...new toys for my new Mac!
12.27.2007
My Wishlist
I will obviously be adding and/or deleting as I either get something, find something else I want, or change my mind.
Cross Stitch Kits
Janlynn:
Mickey Sketch
Lanarte (Spring 2009):
Ballet Silhouette 1-4
Cross Stitch Patterns
Bent Creek:
Photobooth Snowmen
Passione Ricamo:
Little Christmas Angels
The Fairy Queen
A Christmas Spirit
Nora Corbett Designs:
All of the Christmas Couriers
Santa's Sleigh
Teresa Wentzler:
Needle Guardian
Miniature Autumn Sampler
Miniature Winter Sampler
Knotwork Bookmarks I and II
Castles by the Sea
Delightful Dragon Scissor Fob
Medieval Miniature
Celestial Sun
Sun Dragon
Tropical Dream
Margaret Sherry Collection:
Calendar Cats All Together
Moo Moo Moo
Snowman
Bee My Friend
Just Nan:
Floral 15 with embellishments
Cat's Whiskers Design Studio:
Victorian Memories Chaise Lounge
Garden Chair
HeartBreak House:
Watercolor Tulips
Watercolor Pansies
Watercolor Daffodils
Amy Bruecken Designs:
Say Anything Alphabet
ASN:
Cross Stitch for Photo Frames
Barbara Ann Richter:
A Treasure of Jewish Cross Stitch
Medieval Nativity (Treasures in Needlework 1.4 1992)
Medieval Manuscript I (CCCC Jan/Feb 1990)
Medieval Manuscript II (CCCC Sept/Oct 1991)
Patterns from New Stitches Magazine:
Henry VIII
Catherine of Aragon
Anne Boleyn
Jane Seymour
Anne of Cleves
Katherine Howard
Elizabeth I
Mary Queen of Scots
Rovaris:
R-29
R-19
Punchneedle
Red Barn Collections:
Snowman Sampler
Beading
Any and all Delica beads!
Calligraphy
From johnnealbooks.com:
Century turned pen holder
Copperplate Nib Sampler
Copperplate practice pad
Century Oblique Holder
Spenserian practice pad
Learning to Write Spenserian Script
Elizabeth I: Her Life in Letters
Stamps
Stamps Happen:
Camelot Alphabet
Celtic Alphabet
Camelot Borders
Celtic Knot Borders
Penny Black:
Angel Cat
Cross Stitch Kits
Janlynn:
Mickey Sketch
Lanarte (Spring 2009):
Ballet Silhouette 1-4
Cross Stitch Patterns
Bent Creek:
Photobooth Snowmen
Passione Ricamo:
Little Christmas Angels
The Fairy Queen
A Christmas Spirit
Nora Corbett Designs:
All of the Christmas Couriers
Santa's Sleigh
Teresa Wentzler:
Needle Guardian
Miniature Autumn Sampler
Miniature Winter Sampler
Knotwork Bookmarks I and II
Castles by the Sea
Delightful Dragon Scissor Fob
Medieval Miniature
Celestial Sun
Sun Dragon
Tropical Dream
Margaret Sherry Collection:
Calendar Cats All Together
Moo Moo Moo
Snowman
Bee My Friend
Just Nan:
Floral 15 with embellishments
Cat's Whiskers Design Studio:
Victorian Memories Chaise Lounge
Garden Chair
HeartBreak House:
Watercolor Tulips
Watercolor Pansies
Watercolor Daffodils
Amy Bruecken Designs:
Say Anything Alphabet
ASN:
Cross Stitch for Photo Frames
Barbara Ann Richter:
A Treasure of Jewish Cross Stitch
Medieval Nativity (Treasures in Needlework 1.4 1992)
Medieval Manuscript I (CCCC Jan/Feb 1990)
Medieval Manuscript II (CCCC Sept/Oct 1991)
Patterns from New Stitches Magazine:
Henry VIII
Catherine of Aragon
Anne Boleyn
Jane Seymour
Anne of Cleves
Katherine Howard
Elizabeth I
Mary Queen of Scots
Rovaris:
R-29
R-19
Punchneedle
Red Barn Collections:
Snowman Sampler
Beading
Any and all Delica beads!
Calligraphy
From johnnealbooks.com:
Century turned pen holder
Copperplate Nib Sampler
Copperplate practice pad
Century Oblique Holder
Spenserian practice pad
Learning to Write Spenserian Script
Elizabeth I: Her Life in Letters
Stamps
Stamps Happen:
Camelot Alphabet
Celtic Alphabet
Camelot Borders
Celtic Knot Borders
Penny Black:
Angel Cat
I was thinking...
about making a stitching/crafting/calligraphy/beading/etc wishlist. Not that I'm going to be buying much stash for a while, as I have everything I need to finish my stitching goals for the year (with the occasional need for random floss for ornaments).
But everyone else seems to have a wishlist, and I would love to sit and stare and daydream over the yummy goodies on my list. I WILL make an attempt to be frugal, but...I have OCD and have a tendency to overcompensate when I'm depressed.
The positive side of making a wishlist is that when someone asks me what I want, I can direct them to the wishlist...um...YEAH!
Hopefully, I can just LOOK at the stuff I want, and buy once in a while as a treat for finishing a goal. Or, it could go the other way...
...and I'll end up with MORE stuff I don't really need...sheesh!
But everyone else seems to have a wishlist, and I would love to sit and stare and daydream over the yummy goodies on my list. I WILL make an attempt to be frugal, but...I have OCD and have a tendency to overcompensate when I'm depressed.
The positive side of making a wishlist is that when someone asks me what I want, I can direct them to the wishlist...um...YEAH!
Hopefully, I can just LOOK at the stuff I want, and buy once in a while as a treat for finishing a goal. Or, it could go the other way...
...and I'll end up with MORE stuff I don't really need...sheesh!
12.26.2007
I hope everyone...
had a safe and happy Christmas yesterday! My girls didn't get much this year, but they were thrilled with what they did get. Aislin is only 4, but Alyssa is so understanding and mature when it comes to knowing that Mommy can't afford much right now.
I have been fighting a migraine all night. After all the presents were opened yesterday, we were sitting and watching a movie Alyssa got, and a migraine hit me so suddenly that I thought I was having a stroke. For those of you who get migraines, it was the type that no type or amount of medication makes it go away, and if you even blink your head throbs. I hate it when my head throbs with my pulse. It makes me want to put a gun to my head, it was that bad.
I still have it, though it's not throbbing. If I sit still and not move too much then it's ok. Although my neck hurts from having to sleep sitting up.
I decided to make resolutions for the new year, which is odd because I NEVER make resolutions. I have tried to make resolutions before, like quit smoking or lose weight or finish a project. I know my limitations, and I know that I will never follow through with them. I always had good intentions, but well...I'm a procrastinator. And let's face it, when the kids are in bed, I'm a lazy ass. Plus I get bored with my projects and always have a desire to start something new. But this year I'm going to try to make time.
So these are my resolutions for 2008:
Stitching Related
1. Finish Guardian, which is my longest running TW wip.
2. Finish Desiderata, which I just started.
3. Finish my neice's birth sampler by her 1st birthday in May.
4. Stitch 1 ornament a month.
5. Join the local EGA and go to the meetings/stitch ins. There's a chapter right here in town! I need a night or two a month to myself.
Work Related
1. Teach at least 1 class a term with UOP online.
2. Pick up at least 1 more freelance editing job.
3. Get my beading and calligraphy businesses up and going. My brother-in-law really needs to send me the logo that he designed for my beading business. I have a logo and business card designs for the calligraphy, I just need a brochure to go to the local stationary stores. The websites also need to be designed. Obviously, right now this won't be a full-time thing, but one day I hope that I won't have to work full time, and I can just freelance and have my businesses.
Personal
1. Continue in my dance class. I'm having a blast in there and I can feel my muscles getting stronger.
2. Join a gym. There's 1 here in town that's only $10 a month. I think I can afford that. I was also told that a good exercise regime consists of a mixture of cardio (dance) and muscle training (weights).
3. Lose 20 pounds. It seems I can't write that without laughing for some reason!
4. Pay off 2 credit cards.
5. Save at least $5000 by the end of the year (not including what I get back in taxes).
6. Probably the most important of all: Have at least 2 Alyssa-only dates a month. She feels resentful sometimes that Aislin takes up so much of my time. So even if it means that Alyssa and I go to the movies, or out to dinner, or to her favorite store, or whatever, I'm going to make time for just us two.
I think that's it. It seems like a really tall order when I read back over it, and I think I may have to adjust it in places as the year progresses. There's only so much I can do when I work full time, and freelance, and have kids to take care of. I wonder if I'm asking too much of myself?
I guess we'll find out at the end of 2008.
I have been fighting a migraine all night. After all the presents were opened yesterday, we were sitting and watching a movie Alyssa got, and a migraine hit me so suddenly that I thought I was having a stroke. For those of you who get migraines, it was the type that no type or amount of medication makes it go away, and if you even blink your head throbs. I hate it when my head throbs with my pulse. It makes me want to put a gun to my head, it was that bad.
I still have it, though it's not throbbing. If I sit still and not move too much then it's ok. Although my neck hurts from having to sleep sitting up.
I decided to make resolutions for the new year, which is odd because I NEVER make resolutions. I have tried to make resolutions before, like quit smoking or lose weight or finish a project. I know my limitations, and I know that I will never follow through with them. I always had good intentions, but well...I'm a procrastinator. And let's face it, when the kids are in bed, I'm a lazy ass. Plus I get bored with my projects and always have a desire to start something new. But this year I'm going to try to make time.
So these are my resolutions for 2008:
Stitching Related
1. Finish Guardian, which is my longest running TW wip.
2. Finish Desiderata, which I just started.
3. Finish my neice's birth sampler by her 1st birthday in May.
4. Stitch 1 ornament a month.
5. Join the local EGA and go to the meetings/stitch ins. There's a chapter right here in town! I need a night or two a month to myself.
Work Related
1. Teach at least 1 class a term with UOP online.
2. Pick up at least 1 more freelance editing job.
3. Get my beading and calligraphy businesses up and going. My brother-in-law really needs to send me the logo that he designed for my beading business. I have a logo and business card designs for the calligraphy, I just need a brochure to go to the local stationary stores. The websites also need to be designed. Obviously, right now this won't be a full-time thing, but one day I hope that I won't have to work full time, and I can just freelance and have my businesses.
Personal
1. Continue in my dance class. I'm having a blast in there and I can feel my muscles getting stronger.
2. Join a gym. There's 1 here in town that's only $10 a month. I think I can afford that. I was also told that a good exercise regime consists of a mixture of cardio (dance) and muscle training (weights).
3. Lose 20 pounds. It seems I can't write that without laughing for some reason!
4. Pay off 2 credit cards.
5. Save at least $5000 by the end of the year (not including what I get back in taxes).
6. Probably the most important of all: Have at least 2 Alyssa-only dates a month. She feels resentful sometimes that Aislin takes up so much of my time. So even if it means that Alyssa and I go to the movies, or out to dinner, or to her favorite store, or whatever, I'm going to make time for just us two.
I think that's it. It seems like a really tall order when I read back over it, and I think I may have to adjust it in places as the year progresses. There's only so much I can do when I work full time, and freelance, and have kids to take care of. I wonder if I'm asking too much of myself?
I guess we'll find out at the end of 2008.
12.23.2007
We saw Santa...
and Alyssa actually sat on his lap. She refused for the last couple of years, but I told her I would probably be asking her to when she's an old lady.
I think the picture turned out really nice and cute:
So anyway, I finally finished my mom and sister's ivy bowl snowmen, after...2...3(?) years. They take forever to do, just because of the painting. Plus, you have to sew a couple of seams on the little hat. And since I'm so great at sewing, I put it off as long as possible.
I feel a little down today. I love Christmas, but I always get depressed around the holidays for some reason. I should be excited because my kids are excited. It's hard to explain I guess, but I get mad at myself because there is no reason at all why I should be depressed.
My parents went to visit my sister and her family for Christmas. My brother in law's parents moved back from Indiana, and this is my neice's first Christmas, so I don't blame my sister for wanting all of the baby's family near. Plus, my parents are going to drive down and visit my grandmother, as she is in the hospital riddled with cancer. My dad wanted to see her one last time. I wish I could have gone to say goodbye.
I think my problem lies with my mother. We were talking, and she said that my sister wants to have all the grandparents there for the baby's first Christmas. No problem. The issue is that my mother then said, "Can you blame her?" First of all, my mother missed Alyssa's first Christmas AND her first birthday (they are only 2 weeks apart) because mom was in Saudi Arabia at the time. Not her fault by any means.
Then she missed Aislin's first birthday because she went gambling in Vegas with her friend, and refused to come back one day earlier for the party. Aislin's other grandmother is Jehovah Witness and doesn't celebrate birthdays, so Aislin didn't have a grandma at her first birthday party.
What kills is that my mother's response was that it was Aislin's first birthday and it wasn't a big deal for her to miss it because Aislin would never remember it. So why is it different with my sister's baby? Shouldn't it be the same that Annika wouldn't remember her first Christmas, so what does it matter?
Now don't get me wrong. My parents have not seen their youngest grandchild since she was born in May, and they HAD to go visit my grandmother. I'm happy that they will get to see everyone. I'm just tired of my mother having different ideas for me and my sister. She doesn't even notice that she says these things. She's constantly on my ass about things, but would never dare talk to my sister the way she talks to me.
I'm sure that's most of my depression problem right now. I feel selfish and stupid and immature, but I think after 30 years of my mother doing that has gotten to me.
I know parents aren't perfect and I don't expect them to be...
...but they shouldn't expect their kids to be perfect either.
I think the picture turned out really nice and cute:
So anyway, I finally finished my mom and sister's ivy bowl snowmen, after...2...3(?) years. They take forever to do, just because of the painting. Plus, you have to sew a couple of seams on the little hat. And since I'm so great at sewing, I put it off as long as possible.
I feel a little down today. I love Christmas, but I always get depressed around the holidays for some reason. I should be excited because my kids are excited. It's hard to explain I guess, but I get mad at myself because there is no reason at all why I should be depressed.
My parents went to visit my sister and her family for Christmas. My brother in law's parents moved back from Indiana, and this is my neice's first Christmas, so I don't blame my sister for wanting all of the baby's family near. Plus, my parents are going to drive down and visit my grandmother, as she is in the hospital riddled with cancer. My dad wanted to see her one last time. I wish I could have gone to say goodbye.
I think my problem lies with my mother. We were talking, and she said that my sister wants to have all the grandparents there for the baby's first Christmas. No problem. The issue is that my mother then said, "Can you blame her?" First of all, my mother missed Alyssa's first Christmas AND her first birthday (they are only 2 weeks apart) because mom was in Saudi Arabia at the time. Not her fault by any means.
Then she missed Aislin's first birthday because she went gambling in Vegas with her friend, and refused to come back one day earlier for the party. Aislin's other grandmother is Jehovah Witness and doesn't celebrate birthdays, so Aislin didn't have a grandma at her first birthday party.
What kills is that my mother's response was that it was Aislin's first birthday and it wasn't a big deal for her to miss it because Aislin would never remember it. So why is it different with my sister's baby? Shouldn't it be the same that Annika wouldn't remember her first Christmas, so what does it matter?
Now don't get me wrong. My parents have not seen their youngest grandchild since she was born in May, and they HAD to go visit my grandmother. I'm happy that they will get to see everyone. I'm just tired of my mother having different ideas for me and my sister. She doesn't even notice that she says these things. She's constantly on my ass about things, but would never dare talk to my sister the way she talks to me.
I'm sure that's most of my depression problem right now. I feel selfish and stupid and immature, but I think after 30 years of my mother doing that has gotten to me.
I know parents aren't perfect and I don't expect them to be...
...but they shouldn't expect their kids to be perfect either.
12.14.2007
They're ornamentified!...
meaning they actually look like ornaments now.
Thanks to Sweet Pea for providing me with a link to make braided cord, that actually *looks* like braided cord...and even a blind monkey can do it! Which is great, considering that I was definitely questioning my IQ!
Anyway, first is my dear sister's ornament. As I said in a previous post, it's Teresa Wentzler's Intermediate Whitework Ornament stitched in DMC Color Variations. I did a snazzy fringe-y type thing around it. It actually turned out pretty, even though my stitching skills are really non-existent, and there are some places where I look at this ornament and gag. But my family knows how bad I sew, and they overlook it.
But doesn't the braid look awesome? Yes, I really do have to pat myself on the back, as my first present of the Christmas season is discovering that I can make something that's up to par with what a blind monkey can do!
Next is my darling little neice's ornament. Once again, my lack of sewing skills really came into play on this one. I can barely sew a straight line, and I had to sew an oval! EGAD! It was a total nightmare. It's a good thing no one can see the side where it was hand stitched together after being stuffed!
And yes, I made the cord and tassel myself! I'm not as happy with the cord on this one, but I think it's because of the #4 braid...it didn't want to play nice with the rest of the thread.
So now, I'm going to finish my brother-in-law's and Aislin's dance teacher's ornaments. It's a good thing that my parents are going to visit my sister for Christmas, because I can finish their ornaments for when they get back. So many ornaments...
...so little time!
Thanks to Sweet Pea for providing me with a link to make braided cord, that actually *looks* like braided cord...and even a blind monkey can do it! Which is great, considering that I was definitely questioning my IQ!
Anyway, first is my dear sister's ornament. As I said in a previous post, it's Teresa Wentzler's Intermediate Whitework Ornament stitched in DMC Color Variations. I did a snazzy fringe-y type thing around it. It actually turned out pretty, even though my stitching skills are really non-existent, and there are some places where I look at this ornament and gag. But my family knows how bad I sew, and they overlook it.
But doesn't the braid look awesome? Yes, I really do have to pat myself on the back, as my first present of the Christmas season is discovering that I can make something that's up to par with what a blind monkey can do!
Next is my darling little neice's ornament. Once again, my lack of sewing skills really came into play on this one. I can barely sew a straight line, and I had to sew an oval! EGAD! It was a total nightmare. It's a good thing no one can see the side where it was hand stitched together after being stuffed!
And yes, I made the cord and tassel myself! I'm not as happy with the cord on this one, but I think it's because of the #4 braid...it didn't want to play nice with the rest of the thread.
So now, I'm going to finish my brother-in-law's and Aislin's dance teacher's ornaments. It's a good thing that my parents are going to visit my sister for Christmas, because I can finish their ornaments for when they get back. So many ornaments...
...so little time!
12.12.2007
What is up...
with this crazy weather? Last week it was in the 20s. This week it's in the 70s. Tomorrow we are supposed to get a cold front to come through. But this is definitely NOT Christmas weather!
I finished my sister's ornament and have gotten about 3/4 done on her hubby's. I don't really feel like posting a picture right now. But I'm going to actually finish sister's and my neice's ornaments into actual ornaments sometime today (I hope).
Not much going on other than that. What an exciting life I lead...
...NOT!
I finished my sister's ornament and have gotten about 3/4 done on her hubby's. I don't really feel like posting a picture right now. But I'm going to actually finish sister's and my neice's ornaments into actual ornaments sometime today (I hope).
Not much going on other than that. What an exciting life I lead...
...NOT!
12.05.2007
Can you hear...
my sighs of frustration? I'm trying to put together my neice's ornament. I bought some fusible webbing to put on the reverse of the front of the ornament to keep the single stitches of braid from coming through the front. Ok so far.
Then, I thought I would be smart and make my own cord and tassel. It's cheaper than buying them, and I can use the threads that are in the ornament. I see other ornaments all the time where the stitcher has made her (or his) own braid and tassel. Genius, right?
Wrong.
It seems that I can't even make the cord. It's a "simple" twisted braid that apparently only people with IQs over 200 can do. I can't get the dang thing to stop twisting up on itself.
I did manage to make a little tassel, but it looks...stupid...I think my little one can do better.
In between working on this stuff, all the while swearing up a storm (I'm so glad no one is home), my Dad's dog decides that today is his day to be really sick. I've been cleaning up runny poop all morning. I finally got out the carpet shampooer and threw the dogs outside. They can stay there.
Anyway, if anyone knows of a source called "Braid and cord making for dummies," would you please pass it along? Meanwhile...
...I need a nap!
Then, I thought I would be smart and make my own cord and tassel. It's cheaper than buying them, and I can use the threads that are in the ornament. I see other ornaments all the time where the stitcher has made her (or his) own braid and tassel. Genius, right?
Wrong.
It seems that I can't even make the cord. It's a "simple" twisted braid that apparently only people with IQs over 200 can do. I can't get the dang thing to stop twisting up on itself.
I did manage to make a little tassel, but it looks...stupid...I think my little one can do better.
In between working on this stuff, all the while swearing up a storm (I'm so glad no one is home), my Dad's dog decides that today is his day to be really sick. I've been cleaning up runny poop all morning. I finally got out the carpet shampooer and threw the dogs outside. They can stay there.
Anyway, if anyone knows of a source called "Braid and cord making for dummies," would you please pass it along? Meanwhile...
...I need a nap!
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