Typically we are on a 3 year rotation of traveling--one year to Ohio, one year to PA, one year home. This year was our 'at home' year. Which is very cool because then I get to decorate--usually. With as sick as we all were right before Christmas, and everything I did for Thanksgiving, I was tired and not into the 'spirit'. Also with getting the new DVR, we couldn't cover the top of the TV to put my village out--so I was bummed. However we put up the tree, and I started getting little things to put out--a few Santas, some snowmen. I got a great deal on a wreath--just gorgeous! So I spent all one Sunday wrapping it all, sending out boxes, putting stuff under the tree and we went to our typical 2-3 church services.
God and all our loved ones were so good to us this year! With blended families, the kids get gifts from a LOT of people--their Christmas is always really good. This year I got a lot of thoughtful gifts! My MIL sent me an Ergo Floorstand--I was speechless!! I am so blessed with my in-laws! She also sent us towels, and I got Forrest Gump-one of my all time fav movies! She does so much for us the whole year through that we are always so grateful for! My SIL sent two gorgeous beaded blown-glass ornaments ( I think I'm going to hang them in my kitchen year round!) and a wonderful bath set. My daughter gave me a #1 Mom pin that moved me to tears, and my son bought me a book I didn't even think he'd remember I was reading the series of! My husband got me a new digital camera, season 1 of Grey's Anatomy, 3 other DVD's, Celtic Woman-Christmas CD, a set of gorgeous purple pens, several stitching packets of stuff I'd picked out, and he cooked for me!! We still have some exchanging to do with family friends, but this has been a stunning Christmas for me!!
Here's hoping everyone else has had a great holiday season and that 2007 holds all the bright promise of blessings and peace!
Friday, December 29, 2006
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
BIG Finish!!
Now typically I'm not an advocate of staying up all night, especially when you have not just one child home on break, but two of them. Actually is twas the prescence of the second (older) child that allowed me to make that choice! When 1 am came and my DH had to go to bed since he had work this morning, I was headed into the home stretch of the beading on Stargazer. This hasn't been a simple prospect since I've changed all the beads, and then ran out of one and the replacement tubes weren't a match! Yes it's been an adventure! So when he saw where I was, he said "Why don't you just stay up and try to finish?" There are many reasons I love my husband dearly, but his canny understanding of "Finishing Frenzy" was tops of the list last night! So I cued up the next "History of Britain" DVD from the set DH got from his mom for Christmas (more on gifties tomorrow!!)and settled in to bead. Well as is per usual, it never takes the "short" time I think it will, and at 6:30 this morning I finished.
Without further delay, here is my biggest finish this year, my first Mira finish in 3 years and my pride and joy as of now!:
I also had help with the picture again! Smudgers is my trouble kitty! But according to my husband, Smudgers can nearly get away with anything because he's my favorite. I won't admit to favorites!! *winks*
Without further delay, here is my biggest finish this year, my first Mira finish in 3 years and my pride and joy as of now!:
I also had help with the picture again! Smudgers is my trouble kitty! But according to my husband, Smudgers can nearly get away with anything because he's my favorite. I won't admit to favorites!! *winks*
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Obligation stitching almost done!
I finished framing 3 pieces this weekend--I mounted and laced them, but used store-assembled frames! All of these are for my sister-in-law.
I also finished off 3 ornaments for my obligations--I used biscornu seam finishing for these, and am thrilled with how they look. I also made my own cording for the first time!
Now to get everything boxed up and shipped!! I'll be glad for the holiday to GET here!
I also finished off 3 ornaments for my obligations--I used biscornu seam finishing for these, and am thrilled with how they look. I also made my own cording for the first time!
Now to get everything boxed up and shipped!! I'll be glad for the holiday to GET here!
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
The tale of the cramped fingers...
or, if you prefer--Beading and crocheting within hours of each other do not usually make for pain-free fingers!
Of course some of this is compounded by the fact that I did something to my lower back. It's excruciatingly painful to actually stand, sit or lay down. Once I get *into* most positions I'm alright, except for a dull constant ache. The act of moving however has me nearly in tears--if it doesn't ease up with the things I'm doing to try and help it soon, I will call a dr.
So I got the beads for Mirabilia's Stargazer this week--am converting them to Delicas because I can't stand to work with Mill Hills anymore, really. After I ordered them however, I realized the one bead was more of a tonal color to work with the original fabric (at least in my opinion) so I had to change my thinking on that. I go for more muted and not so stark contrasts so my conversion isn't all that 'true' to the mill hill colors called for. It also made me realize that y'all haven't seen the finished "stitching" picture! So here we go!
Finished Stitching!
Two days of beading!
of course it is nearly *impossible* to get a true picture of this gorgeous fabric or the true shimmer of the beads! The fabric is Sugar Maple Fabric's Summer Twilight on Belfast! The fabric type does make a difference.
I'm torn on what to be working on as I have SO MANY obligation finishes to get done. *sigh* I just want to bead! LOL
Y'all take care!
Of course some of this is compounded by the fact that I did something to my lower back. It's excruciatingly painful to actually stand, sit or lay down. Once I get *into* most positions I'm alright, except for a dull constant ache. The act of moving however has me nearly in tears--if it doesn't ease up with the things I'm doing to try and help it soon, I will call a dr.
So I got the beads for Mirabilia's Stargazer this week--am converting them to Delicas because I can't stand to work with Mill Hills anymore, really. After I ordered them however, I realized the one bead was more of a tonal color to work with the original fabric (at least in my opinion) so I had to change my thinking on that. I go for more muted and not so stark contrasts so my conversion isn't all that 'true' to the mill hill colors called for. It also made me realize that y'all haven't seen the finished "stitching" picture! So here we go!
Finished Stitching!
Two days of beading!
of course it is nearly *impossible* to get a true picture of this gorgeous fabric or the true shimmer of the beads! The fabric is Sugar Maple Fabric's Summer Twilight on Belfast! The fabric type does make a difference.
I'm torn on what to be working on as I have SO MANY obligation finishes to get done. *sigh* I just want to bead! LOL
Y'all take care!
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Wow--this month is going fast!
December is my favorite time of year! But I have some November catching up to do! I've had a few requests to see some of the stuff I did for our Thanksgiving--the placemats and napkins are being washed, so I don't have those right now. But-- here's the napkin rings:
I used glass and swarovski crystal beads along with some silver beads. The base was memory wire *grrrrrr* I was pleased with how they came out!
Here is the candlescape I made--I painted the pots with a stone finish, and assembled the dish with rocks. Wasn't much to it, but DH loves it!
I also have had a Christmas gift HD! The person this is for doesn't read here, so I can show off my "bobble" stitch scarf! It's done with Lion Brand Homespun yarn and is so warm and cozy!
Finally, a few pictures of my furbabies--well just two of them. Simba is the orange kitty, and there's a reason we call him a "big puddle o'kitty love". Smudgers is the black&white trouble cat!
Y'all take care!
I used glass and swarovski crystal beads along with some silver beads. The base was memory wire *grrrrrr* I was pleased with how they came out!
Here is the candlescape I made--I painted the pots with a stone finish, and assembled the dish with rocks. Wasn't much to it, but DH loves it!
I also have had a Christmas gift HD! The person this is for doesn't read here, so I can show off my "bobble" stitch scarf! It's done with Lion Brand Homespun yarn and is so warm and cozy!
Finally, a few pictures of my furbabies--well just two of them. Simba is the orange kitty, and there's a reason we call him a "big puddle o'kitty love". Smudgers is the black&white trouble cat!
Y'all take care!
Monday, November 27, 2006
Well we made it!
Thanksgiving has come and gone, and I've got so much to be thankful for! Besides my husband, children, cats and home... all of our apparent decent health these days--I'm also grateful that the holiday is *over*! :) I've been working most of November to get ready to host my in-laws for the first time ever for a holiday meal. I was thrilled (and filled with trepidation!).
I actually finished the 8 napkin rings I designed and beaded! I truly learned how to use my sewing machine, and gained a LOT of confidence while sewing 8 napkins, 9 placemats, one center mat, and a tablecloth to fit an 8 foot long table. And I got them all complete *before* my MIL and SIL arrived on Tuesday! I did well with the cooking--making the best turkey I think I've ever done! And it was pretty! :) The house was clean, the kids behaved and my family was all together in our house for three glorious days!
Back to normal now :) DD is back in school, and today some developements in areas of life that will affect things such as her last name happened. Things that I worry about their effect on her, but in the long run are the absolute best things that can happen for all of us. Her biological father is going to sign off on DH adopting her. He's had zero contact with her for more than 6 months, He hasn't paid support, nor has he attempted to see her in the 7 years since we left. My DH on the other hand couldn't love her more or be more her father if he *were* genetically responsible. It will take some time to get all the paperwork filed, and we have to decided whether or not we're using an attorney but, by spring... it should be done.
Stitching wise, there should soon be a picture of Stargazer, and well that's about it since I spent a ton of time measuring, cutting and sewing on my machine. I've also started Christmas scarves with my crocheting!
Take care of yourselves!
I actually finished the 8 napkin rings I designed and beaded! I truly learned how to use my sewing machine, and gained a LOT of confidence while sewing 8 napkins, 9 placemats, one center mat, and a tablecloth to fit an 8 foot long table. And I got them all complete *before* my MIL and SIL arrived on Tuesday! I did well with the cooking--making the best turkey I think I've ever done! And it was pretty! :) The house was clean, the kids behaved and my family was all together in our house for three glorious days!
Back to normal now :) DD is back in school, and today some developements in areas of life that will affect things such as her last name happened. Things that I worry about their effect on her, but in the long run are the absolute best things that can happen for all of us. Her biological father is going to sign off on DH adopting her. He's had zero contact with her for more than 6 months, He hasn't paid support, nor has he attempted to see her in the 7 years since we left. My DH on the other hand couldn't love her more or be more her father if he *were* genetically responsible. It will take some time to get all the paperwork filed, and we have to decided whether or not we're using an attorney but, by spring... it should be done.
Stitching wise, there should soon be a picture of Stargazer, and well that's about it since I spent a ton of time measuring, cutting and sewing on my machine. I've also started Christmas scarves with my crocheting!
Take care of yourselves!
Monday, November 13, 2006
What a November!
Well, after 10 days of Zithromax, breathing treatments 4 times a day, lots of sleep, lots more coughing, 4 doctor's visits and 7 official missed days of school--the alien girl child is finally well enough to go back to school. While she's eager to do so, she's not so eager to do the work that she's missed. We've been doing that the last couple days because she's well enough to do so. Yeah--it's been fun.
I am exhausted on a general level, and grateful that it wasn't and hasn't been worse. We'll go back to the doctor on Friday, and he'll do another chest x-ray to make sure the nasty areas are disappearing. It is with a heartfelt thank you to God that this is all drawing closed, since as a lifelong asthmatic, she could have been SO much worse.
Stitching has fallen by the wayside these last two weeks in favor of crocheting a blanket for my Gramma for Christmas. I'm really enjoying this pattern, and am using Home Spun by Lion Brand in the Regency color. It's thick and warm and soft. I really think Gramma will love it.
I have a million things to do to get ready for DH's family coming next Tues. I've painted pots for a candlescape for the table, hung pictures, decluttered some small areas, but there is SO MUCH to go--including all the sewing. I'm making the tablecloth, the napkins, the placemats, and curtains for my kitchen. *snorts* Also on tap is beaded napkin rings (those are semi-plotted, just need to start assembling), shopping for the food and a deep-level, like wall scrubbing.. cleaning of the entire house. Having DD sick these last two weeks has skewed my schedule, but what gets done, gets done. The rest will have to be okay!!
I did manage to stitch Stargazer's face on this weekend, but I dont' want to post an update picture until I have the ribbons done. I spent about 35 mins finding a different backstitch color as the color she called for was WAY too dark on my fabric, at least.
Coming soon--my 'letter' from Annette's Blog!
I am exhausted on a general level, and grateful that it wasn't and hasn't been worse. We'll go back to the doctor on Friday, and he'll do another chest x-ray to make sure the nasty areas are disappearing. It is with a heartfelt thank you to God that this is all drawing closed, since as a lifelong asthmatic, she could have been SO much worse.
Stitching has fallen by the wayside these last two weeks in favor of crocheting a blanket for my Gramma for Christmas. I'm really enjoying this pattern, and am using Home Spun by Lion Brand in the Regency color. It's thick and warm and soft. I really think Gramma will love it.
I have a million things to do to get ready for DH's family coming next Tues. I've painted pots for a candlescape for the table, hung pictures, decluttered some small areas, but there is SO MUCH to go--including all the sewing. I'm making the tablecloth, the napkins, the placemats, and curtains for my kitchen. *snorts* Also on tap is beaded napkin rings (those are semi-plotted, just need to start assembling), shopping for the food and a deep-level, like wall scrubbing.. cleaning of the entire house. Having DD sick these last two weeks has skewed my schedule, but what gets done, gets done. The rest will have to be okay!!
I did manage to stitch Stargazer's face on this weekend, but I dont' want to post an update picture until I have the ribbons done. I spent about 35 mins finding a different backstitch color as the color she called for was WAY too dark on my fabric, at least.
Coming soon--my 'letter' from Annette's Blog!
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Pay It Forward :)
In my blog travels recently--mainly late at night due to Tory being so incredibly sick lately--I've seen this posted on a bunch of blogs. I've also seen lots of people amend it with a deadline of 365 days. I figured I could handle that, and so I've jumped in! I'll do my best to get things out faster ;) I jumped into the fray on Mel's Blog...
So:
The first five people to respond to this post (via the comments section) will get some form of "art" made by me. An original hand crafted items, made with one of the many mediums I use - stitching, crochet, beading, etc. I will work to fit this to you and your likes. After you comment, please email me your snail mail address (to angi dot esch at gmail dot com). Think of it as something to look forward to getting in the mail.
There is a catch, of course, the way this works is that if you sign up, you have to blog this as well and continue sharing.
Sound like fun? Comment away! And if no one comments here--which is quite possible, as this blog doesn't get much comments or readership--I'll pick five people randomly to send something to :)
So:
The first five people to respond to this post (via the comments section) will get some form of "art" made by me. An original hand crafted items, made with one of the many mediums I use - stitching, crochet, beading, etc. I will work to fit this to you and your likes. After you comment, please email me your snail mail address (to angi dot esch at gmail dot com). Think of it as something to look forward to getting in the mail.
There is a catch, of course, the way this works is that if you sign up, you have to blog this as well and continue sharing.
Sound like fun? Comment away! And if no one comments here--which is quite possible, as this blog doesn't get much comments or readership--I'll pick five people randomly to send something to :)
Monday, October 30, 2006
Weekend update
It was a pretty mild weekend, except for the weather! We had threats of massive storms, widespread power outages, etc. So of course we hunkered down, and it wasn't as bad as they said. We did get huge amounts of rain, which cancelled the kid's soccer games. It gave me time to catch up on my laundry, and housework, and plenty of time to sitch!
I managed to finish up the stitching on two ornies this weekend, and make progress on both of my shop models. Here's the ornies!
This first one is from The Cat's Whiskers. It's a freebie I found on their website.
This second free design I did in red, for Christmas obviously. I really liked how fast it stitched up! It's a free design from The Monkey Works
I'm really pleased with how they both came out. I have the perfect fabric to finish the redwork one, but I'll need to find something for the other!
in other stitching news, I almost completed ALL my goals for October! I was pretty pumped!
Stitch JN RR as soon as it arrives--YES!
Finish 1 model for shop, start on second--both started
Stitch 10 hours on Stargazer --YES!
Restart MIL's gift--Stitch at least 5 hours on it--YES!
Stitch 2 Christmas Ornaments--YES!
Stitch 5 hours each on 2 other WIPS--Indigo Rose Bead Blanket & The Birth Band--YES!
Finish Crys' RR--Mail HOME--YES!!
Here's November's Goals:
Finish both LNS models!
Finish MIL's gift!
Stitch JN RR as soon as it arrives
Stitch 5 hours on 2 WIPS
Stitch 10 hours on Stargazer
Stitch 2 ornaments
I managed to finish up the stitching on two ornies this weekend, and make progress on both of my shop models. Here's the ornies!
This first one is from The Cat's Whiskers. It's a freebie I found on their website.
This second free design I did in red, for Christmas obviously. I really liked how fast it stitched up! It's a free design from The Monkey Works
I'm really pleased with how they both came out. I have the perfect fabric to finish the redwork one, but I'll need to find something for the other!
in other stitching news, I almost completed ALL my goals for October! I was pretty pumped!
Stitch JN RR as soon as it arrives--YES!
Finish 1 model for shop, start on second--both started
Stitch 10 hours on Stargazer --YES!
Restart MIL's gift--Stitch at least 5 hours on it--YES!
Stitch 2 Christmas Ornaments--YES!
Stitch 5 hours each on 2 other WIPS--Indigo Rose Bead Blanket & The Birth Band--YES!
Finish Crys' RR--Mail HOME--YES!!
Here's November's Goals:
Finish both LNS models!
Finish MIL's gift!
Stitch JN RR as soon as it arrives
Stitch 5 hours on 2 WIPS
Stitch 10 hours on Stargazer
Stitch 2 ornaments
Thursday, October 26, 2006
SBQ, a finish, and relief!
Okay so it's been a stress filled few days... but first! The Stitching Blogger's Question (times two!):
Today's SBQ was suggested by Carol and is:
If you were to come across a sampler chart that caught your eye and
appealed to you, would you or would you not stitch it if it had a
morbid or "creepy" saying on it? If not, why?
I think I would definately still stitch it and if I were creeped out significantly I would either change it, or leave it out. Creativity!
And Last week's question! I missed it!
Last Week's SBQ was suggested by Vash and is:
Which way do you stitch, i.e. do you stitch /// followed by \\\ on
top, or the other way around \\\ followed by ///? Are you left- or
right-handed and do you think that this affects the way that you stitch?
I stitch / followed by \ and I stitch from top to bottom, not bottom to top like the books tell me to! I'm right handed, but I stitch two-handed most of the time, so I don't think it affects how I stitch. I'm self taught, so I have no idea what influenced it!
I had a small finish last night stitching... one of two planned Christmas Ornaments this month. I'll post a picture later today!
All of my worry for the last few days is over, apparently. I still have to wait for official test results, but after having a mammogram and ultrasound yesterday, it seems there's nothing to 'worry' about at the time. Changes can still occur rapidly, so I have to be careful for a bit!
Happy Stitching!
Today's SBQ was suggested by Carol and is:
If you were to come across a sampler chart that caught your eye and
appealed to you, would you or would you not stitch it if it had a
morbid or "creepy" saying on it? If not, why?
I think I would definately still stitch it and if I were creeped out significantly I would either change it, or leave it out. Creativity!
And Last week's question! I missed it!
Last Week's SBQ was suggested by Vash and is:
Which way do you stitch, i.e. do you stitch /// followed by \\\ on
top, or the other way around \\\ followed by ///? Are you left- or
right-handed and do you think that this affects the way that you stitch?
I stitch / followed by \ and I stitch from top to bottom, not bottom to top like the books tell me to! I'm right handed, but I stitch two-handed most of the time, so I don't think it affects how I stitch. I'm self taught, so I have no idea what influenced it!
I had a small finish last night stitching... one of two planned Christmas Ornaments this month. I'll post a picture later today!
All of my worry for the last few days is over, apparently. I still have to wait for official test results, but after having a mammogram and ultrasound yesterday, it seems there's nothing to 'worry' about at the time. Changes can still occur rapidly, so I have to be careful for a bit!
Happy Stitching!
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Well apparently it worked!
I got a call this morning that the imaging center has an 8:20 cancellation tomorrow, so I got rescheduled! On one hand I'm happy to be getting these over with, on the other, I'm extraordinarily nervous. No *idea* how long these results will take either! But, at least I don't have to wait 2 weeks.
I hate waiting..
I'm not a patient person as a general thing. I tend to want things to be instant gratification, which isn't typically possible. When it comes to medical stuff, I'm even less patient. I have tests scheduled for Nov 7, and I'm not at all doing well with that wait! LOL I feel a bit better after a doctor's appointment today, but I'm still worried. There's still reason to be somewhat worried. I did however get good news today! I've lost 11.5 pounds since the second week of September. I'm pretty pumped about that... means my walking is doing *something* I haven't done it regularly lately--too much on my mind. But I'm definately getting back to it!!
In stitching news, I did a stitchathon this weekend and put a LOT of time into Mirabilia's Stargazer. I love this piece so much. I definately believe I can finish her this year now! Here's an updated picture... as you can see, I had help with taking the picture! That's Smudgers, my problem child, but my cute baby!
In stitching news, I did a stitchathon this weekend and put a LOT of time into Mirabilia's Stargazer. I love this piece so much. I definately believe I can finish her this year now! Here's an updated picture... as you can see, I had help with taking the picture! That's Smudgers, my problem child, but my cute baby!
Friday, October 20, 2006
Stitching Update..
Well I've been fighting a serious case of start-itis these days.. so I figured I'd do some updates of some WIPs, and maybe that would help. There is *one* new start here, it's a gift for a friend.
This is my part of Kari's Just Nan RR. I really love JN band samplers!
Indigo Rose's Bead Blanket Sampler. Surprisingly I'm getting addicted to these small toys/tools--and most especially to Indigo Rose!
My meager progress of Patricia Ann Designs Moonlight Orchid. I subbed all the floss for NPI silks, keeping the Iced Lavendar Waterlilies. I didn't like the purples I chose so I started again!
The restart of my MIL's gift.. 4MyBoys Fear Not Tomorrow. I'm actually restructuring this to be more square instead of really long and thin. I think it'll be great!
Drawn Thread's Birth Band. I've done this one before, for my godson. I love this birth sampler, and this is my new start as of last night. It is for a friend's new baby:)
This weekend is the Passione Ricamo stitchathon--I'm going to make as much progress on these and Mirabilia's Stargazer as I possibly can!
This is my part of Kari's Just Nan RR. I really love JN band samplers!
Indigo Rose's Bead Blanket Sampler. Surprisingly I'm getting addicted to these small toys/tools--and most especially to Indigo Rose!
My meager progress of Patricia Ann Designs Moonlight Orchid. I subbed all the floss for NPI silks, keeping the Iced Lavendar Waterlilies. I didn't like the purples I chose so I started again!
The restart of my MIL's gift.. 4MyBoys Fear Not Tomorrow. I'm actually restructuring this to be more square instead of really long and thin. I think it'll be great!
Drawn Thread's Birth Band. I've done this one before, for my godson. I love this birth sampler, and this is my new start as of last night. It is for a friend's new baby:)
This weekend is the Passione Ricamo stitchathon--I'm going to make as much progress on these and Mirabilia's Stargazer as I possibly can!
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
So.. laundry..
Yes, that odd thing that happens when you aren't looking. No seriously, I swear the laundry breeds. All by itself. It is NOT possible I have this much laundry after being caught UP on Sunday. SUNDAY. Totally caught up. I mean I do have a 9 year old who changes clothes with the wind, and a husband who has home clothes and work clothes. But SERIOUSLY. How can every towel we own be dirty????? We all do shower daily at least, but.. there's just the *three* of us. I think the towels and sheets have some questions to answer.
No stitching barely yesterday--just half a band on the new Just Nan RR I received. Hopefully I'll settle down here in a bit and stitch!
Peace to you..
No stitching barely yesterday--just half a band on the new Just Nan RR I received. Hopefully I'll settle down here in a bit and stitch!
Peace to you..
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Stitching Tricky!
Back in June I posted my WIPs, kits and my list of goals on the Rotation BB's StRIP forum. Now mind you, because I've started setting goals and tracking things, I've had more finishes this year than I have in the last *two* years! However, I can't seem to keep reducing WIPs. I even made a deal with myself *and DH* that I wouldn't start something new unless I'd finished 2 things. Now I didn't count exchange pieces ( I did 3 this year, I'm so tickled!)or RR's or shop models in my new start restriction. So while I've had 16 finishes this year, I've only reduced my WIPs by a net 7!! Huh.. I'd have figured it was so many more! Ahhh well, with two and a half months left in this stitching calendar year, I'm hoping for the first time ever to finish 20 or more projects--perhaps even a big one. We'll see how I do!
Monday, October 16, 2006
A Book Meme
I've never been much into the 'memes', but this one that I spied on Another WIP. I think it's pretty interesting.
1: One book that changed your life
I haven't as yet read much in non-fiction, and that's been that way most of my life. I began reading at a very young age, and around age 11 or 12 I read The Mists of Avalon. It solidified my love for all things Arthurian, and being told from a female point of view helped me reinforce my belief in female strength, and power. My family was also going through a crisis of faith, and this book opened a new spiritual path for me, one I traveled for over 15 years. I don't regret that time, because I believe strongly in the ideal that God is both feminine and masculine. Without traveling the spiritual path I did, I would not have felt so strongly about the role of women in Christianity, and would not have been drawn to the Episcopal Church we now attend.
2: One book you've read more than once
Wow, that's just about every book I own, I think. I don't like going to a library because then I can't read and reread the book over and over again. Some recent books I've reread was The Black Jewels Trilogy by Anne Bishop and the Key Trilogy by Nora Roberts.
3: One book you'd want on a desert island
Wow, is this one hard. Half of me immediately says The Bible, the other half says The DragonRiders of Pern by Anne McCaffrey. Tomorrow that answer would change!
4: One book that made you laugh
Most books I read have some element of humor in them--I've laughed out loud to some of the Johanna Lindsey books I have, or the aforemention authors. But what sprang to mind was the Anita Blake:Vampire Hunter books by Laurell K Hamilton. Not sure if humor is her first thrust, but parts of these stories stick with you!
5: One book that made you cry
It did the first time I read it, and it never fails to do so each time I read it even though I know what's coming. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
6: One book you wish had been written
Honestly I am sure whatever topic I wish had been covered has been, I just haven't found the book yet.
7: One book you wish had never been written.
I believe all books have value, and should be respected. There are many books out there I do not agree with, and would choose to *never* read or touch. However, I believe in the right for them to be written.
8: One book you're currently reading
I just started a reread of Anne Bishop's Sebastian. I also will probably start Queen Isabella soon, and I'm itching for a reread of The Other Boleyn Girl. There are huge numbers of books I desire, but don't have yet.
9: One book you've been meaning to read
Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen
10: Some Favorite books not already on this list
The Firebrand--Marion Zimmer Bradley
The Ruins of Ambrai-Melanie Rawn
Arrows of the Queen-Mercedes Lackey (ALL of the Valdemar books!!)
Sweet Liar-Jude Deveraux
Gone with the Wind-Margaret Mitchel
1: One book that changed your life
I haven't as yet read much in non-fiction, and that's been that way most of my life. I began reading at a very young age, and around age 11 or 12 I read The Mists of Avalon. It solidified my love for all things Arthurian, and being told from a female point of view helped me reinforce my belief in female strength, and power. My family was also going through a crisis of faith, and this book opened a new spiritual path for me, one I traveled for over 15 years. I don't regret that time, because I believe strongly in the ideal that God is both feminine and masculine. Without traveling the spiritual path I did, I would not have felt so strongly about the role of women in Christianity, and would not have been drawn to the Episcopal Church we now attend.
2: One book you've read more than once
Wow, that's just about every book I own, I think. I don't like going to a library because then I can't read and reread the book over and over again. Some recent books I've reread was The Black Jewels Trilogy by Anne Bishop and the Key Trilogy by Nora Roberts.
3: One book you'd want on a desert island
Wow, is this one hard. Half of me immediately says The Bible, the other half says The DragonRiders of Pern by Anne McCaffrey. Tomorrow that answer would change!
4: One book that made you laugh
Most books I read have some element of humor in them--I've laughed out loud to some of the Johanna Lindsey books I have, or the aforemention authors. But what sprang to mind was the Anita Blake:Vampire Hunter books by Laurell K Hamilton. Not sure if humor is her first thrust, but parts of these stories stick with you!
5: One book that made you cry
It did the first time I read it, and it never fails to do so each time I read it even though I know what's coming. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
6: One book you wish had been written
Honestly I am sure whatever topic I wish had been covered has been, I just haven't found the book yet.
7: One book you wish had never been written.
I believe all books have value, and should be respected. There are many books out there I do not agree with, and would choose to *never* read or touch. However, I believe in the right for them to be written.
8: One book you're currently reading
I just started a reread of Anne Bishop's Sebastian. I also will probably start Queen Isabella soon, and I'm itching for a reread of The Other Boleyn Girl. There are huge numbers of books I desire, but don't have yet.
9: One book you've been meaning to read
Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen
10: Some Favorite books not already on this list
The Firebrand--Marion Zimmer Bradley
The Ruins of Ambrai-Melanie Rawn
Arrows of the Queen-Mercedes Lackey (ALL of the Valdemar books!!)
Sweet Liar-Jude Deveraux
Gone with the Wind-Margaret Mitchel
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Stitching Blogger's Question
I've seen this around, so I thought I'd start answering it!
This week's SBQ was suggested by Lee and is:
As we all know, stitching in the winter can really be rough on the
hands. What do you do to treat your hands well in the cold winter
months? Do you have any suggestions for creams or soaps? Or perhaps a
special regimen that you would like to share?
I have always suffered from dry skin, especially in the winter. In New Hampshire it gets cold early, so this is affecting me right now. I actually use a tiny bit of olive oil when I cook with it, rub it all over my hands and then wash it off. Other than that, Curel lotion works and when my fingers crack-I use chapstick. None of this helps when I'm stitching though! I may have to try the Dove hand cream the Blonde Librarian recommends!
This week's SBQ was suggested by Lee and is:
hands. What do you do to treat your hands well in the cold winter
months? Do you have any suggestions for creams or soaps? Or perhaps a
special regimen that you would like to share?
I have always suffered from dry skin, especially in the winter. In New Hampshire it gets cold early, so this is affecting me right now. I actually use a tiny bit of olive oil when I cook with it, rub it all over my hands and then wash it off. Other than that, Curel lotion works and when my fingers crack-I use chapstick. None of this helps when I'm stitching though! I may have to try the Dove hand cream the Blonde Librarian recommends!
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Happy October! :)
Yes, there's a trend in my update post titles. I like it!
We've been staying pretty busy here, with soccer, chorus, girl scouts and now clarinet lessons and practice. Between all the church activities and the school activities, I'm not quite sure how I get anything else done! We're also moving in my Dh's really busy time, so for about the next 4 to 5 weeks we won't see much of him either. Which means, I can make chicken corn soup! (He despises it lol).
Other non-stitchy news quick.. We're doing Thanksgiving at my house this year. My MIL from Ohio, SIL and BIL are all coming *here* (squeak). I'm actually very excited and I've started planning my menus already. Hmm...what else.. oh yes--DD's top tooth FINALLY broke through! She only lost this thing before Halloween of LAST YEAR. She's been toothless for so long! But they are finally coming in-thank God.
Stitching news/Goals updates!
Considering I haven't posted goals here before, I'll just post my October goals:)
For October:
Stitch JN RR as soon as it arrives
Finish 1 model for shop, start on second
Stitch 10 hours on Stargazer
Restart MIL's gift
Stitch 2 Christmas Ornaments
Stitch 5 hours each on 2 other WIPS
Finish Crys' RR--Mail HOME
In recent finishes I have had several!
This was the ornament I stitched and finished for my first ever exchange on the Rotation BB. I'm wikked proud of it!
This is the biscornu I finished to send to nebbus! This was my first one, but I know it won't be my last! I was tickled to find a swarovski button to use too!!
The first part of my Christmas themed Just Nan RR! I'm really pleased with how it turned out, even if I had to rip out the satin stitches twice!
My part (and the final part) on my best friend Crystal's RR from a previous round. I love the spiderweb roses!
Two quick stitches! These are from Britty Kitties 3--gifts for my Gramma and my SIL.
last but not least by any means--this is the house I stitched on Autumn's Stitcher's Lane RR...it made it home quite a while ago!
I think that might be all for today! Y'all take care!
We've been staying pretty busy here, with soccer, chorus, girl scouts and now clarinet lessons and practice. Between all the church activities and the school activities, I'm not quite sure how I get anything else done! We're also moving in my Dh's really busy time, so for about the next 4 to 5 weeks we won't see much of him either. Which means, I can make chicken corn soup! (He despises it lol).
Other non-stitchy news quick.. We're doing Thanksgiving at my house this year. My MIL from Ohio, SIL and BIL are all coming *here* (squeak). I'm actually very excited and I've started planning my menus already. Hmm...what else.. oh yes--DD's top tooth FINALLY broke through! She only lost this thing before Halloween of LAST YEAR. She's been toothless for so long! But they are finally coming in-thank God.
Stitching news/Goals updates!
Considering I haven't posted goals here before, I'll just post my October goals:)
For October:
Stitch JN RR as soon as it arrives
Finish 1 model for shop, start on second
Stitch 10 hours on Stargazer
Restart MIL's gift
Stitch 2 Christmas Ornaments
Stitch 5 hours each on 2 other WIPS
Finish Crys' RR--Mail HOME
In recent finishes I have had several!
This was the ornament I stitched and finished for my first ever exchange on the Rotation BB. I'm wikked proud of it!
This is the biscornu I finished to send to nebbus! This was my first one, but I know it won't be my last! I was tickled to find a swarovski button to use too!!
The first part of my Christmas themed Just Nan RR! I'm really pleased with how it turned out, even if I had to rip out the satin stitches twice!
My part (and the final part) on my best friend Crystal's RR from a previous round. I love the spiderweb roses!
Two quick stitches! These are from Britty Kitties 3--gifts for my Gramma and my SIL.
last but not least by any means--this is the house I stitched on Autumn's Stitcher's Lane RR...it made it home quite a while ago!
I think that might be all for today! Y'all take care!
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
I've been tagged!
I was tagged by a silken thinker!
List seven songs you are into right now. No matter what the genre, whether or not they have words, or even if they're not any good, but they must be songs you're really enjoying now. Post these instructions in your blog along with your seven songs. Then tag seven other people to see what they're listening to.
1: Sexy Back by Justin Timberlake
2: SOS by Rhianna
3: How to Save a Life by the Fray
4: Sunday night football theme
5: U of Michigan fight song
6: To God be the Glory, Malcom Archer
7: Holy, Holy, Holy, Malcom Archer
I don't think enough people read this for me to tag! :)
Hugs and happy stitching!
List seven songs you are into right now. No matter what the genre, whether or not they have words, or even if they're not any good, but they must be songs you're really enjoying now. Post these instructions in your blog along with your seven songs. Then tag seven other people to see what they're listening to.
1: Sexy Back by Justin Timberlake
2: SOS by Rhianna
3: How to Save a Life by the Fray
4: Sunday night football theme
5: U of Michigan fight song
6: To God be the Glory, Malcom Archer
7: Holy, Holy, Holy, Malcom Archer
I don't think enough people read this for me to tag! :)
Hugs and happy stitching!
Friday, September 15, 2006
Happy September!
I've really been lax about updating here... there's just so many other things I get drawn into doing!
The kid started school again and she's into 4th grade! It's amazing, and it was wonderful to watch her 'grow up' over the summer. There were some real strides into her becoming more mature, and more independant. She's *starting* to help more around the house, and starting to be a little less self-centered. I'm so so proud of her.
We started a walking program here. We're using Leslie Sansone's Walk Away The Pounds program. I have to say I *love* it. I haven't done any sort of fitness routine for well over a decade! It was a slow rough start as my muscles screamed bloody murder. However I'm up to doing the two mile workout almost every day now and I'm seriously proud of myself. Dan has been doing it with me and we're both amazed at how good (and sometimes sore) we feel!
I've only lost 3 pounds total--but that has more to do with being diagnosed as a severe asthmatic. Right now I'm on 2 different medications, by nebulizer, a total of 4 times a day. Blah! In July I was very sick.. and ended up going on prednisone for about 10 days--hence no major weight loss even though we've cut fat and carbs down majorly and I started excersizing. I'm really proud of the whole family to be honest. We are really working at the change!
I learned to thread and use my sewing machine over Labor Day Weekend!! I finished off two ornies by myself, so I was seriously thrilled! I'm not ready to make clothes yet, but I'm further than I have ever been!!
There's not much else going on here.. not much stitching, but I'm almost done Autumn's House RR... and then it's on to prep my JN RR. It's football season in full swing once again, so I'm starting to settle into my sunday stitching!
That's all for now! Take care everyone!
The kid started school again and she's into 4th grade! It's amazing, and it was wonderful to watch her 'grow up' over the summer. There were some real strides into her becoming more mature, and more independant. She's *starting* to help more around the house, and starting to be a little less self-centered. I'm so so proud of her.
We started a walking program here. We're using Leslie Sansone's Walk Away The Pounds program. I have to say I *love* it. I haven't done any sort of fitness routine for well over a decade! It was a slow rough start as my muscles screamed bloody murder. However I'm up to doing the two mile workout almost every day now and I'm seriously proud of myself. Dan has been doing it with me and we're both amazed at how good (and sometimes sore) we feel!
I've only lost 3 pounds total--but that has more to do with being diagnosed as a severe asthmatic. Right now I'm on 2 different medications, by nebulizer, a total of 4 times a day. Blah! In July I was very sick.. and ended up going on prednisone for about 10 days--hence no major weight loss even though we've cut fat and carbs down majorly and I started excersizing. I'm really proud of the whole family to be honest. We are really working at the change!
I learned to thread and use my sewing machine over Labor Day Weekend!! I finished off two ornies by myself, so I was seriously thrilled! I'm not ready to make clothes yet, but I'm further than I have ever been!!
There's not much else going on here.. not much stitching, but I'm almost done Autumn's House RR... and then it's on to prep my JN RR. It's football season in full swing once again, so I'm starting to settle into my sunday stitching!
That's all for now! Take care everyone!
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