Needlebook

I love looking at the beautiful French stitching blogs. Recently I found one that had the pattern and finishing instructions to make a needlebook. The book was so beautiful, I had to try. I was able to get the pattern from this site I choose a 28ct. fabric and a silk overdyed to stitch with. I made a file folder to keep the pattern in and also covered several floss bobbins. I even bought a needlekeep to match my thread. The pattern was originally given over several months last year. I would like to have the first part done by the end of February. I am really excited about this project and can't wait to get started.

Vintage Flee Market

This Blackbird Design is probably one of my favorites. It has the look I love, vintage flee market. ( Just like the name ). It is the only piece of stitchery in my bedroom at the moment. This is also my favorite corner in the house right now. I found the table at a barn sale this past summer. The lamp is from my sister's house and the doilies were given to me by a friend.

In The Meadow We Can Build a Snowman

This is my first finished cross-stitch piece in 2009. I ordered the pattern from Country Sampler and asked that they include enough fabric to make two pillows. I had no idea it was stitched on 18 aida. I haven't used aida in years. It was a little odd at first stitching on aida, but then it was fine. I dyed the entire piece in tea after it was finished. I backed the pillow with a hand dyed plaid green wool from my stash. I am going to make the other pillow later this year.

Chief

This is Chief. He joined our family this afternoon. Bryce has wanted a dog for a long time and now he has one.

Continued Challenge

Last Fall I challenged myself to do more with what I already have. I have been finishing projects that I started, making things with what I have on hand and trying not to buy anything we don't need. This year I want to continue that challenge. I have so much stuff that sometimes it is very distracting to me. I don't want to just throw things out because they are taking up space. I want to use them or give them to someone who can use them. I feel good about this challenge and I want to continue it throughout this coming year. First on my list is to finish several dolls that I started a long time ago. I am thinking about opening an Etsy shop to sell some of the things I make and collect. I need to think about it a little while longer. In the mean time, I am going to keep working towards my goal and see what I can accomplish.