A Few Things To Share

I spent the last three weeks in Vermont where the weather was a bit crazy; most of the days were freezing but the last few were unseasonably warm. The combination of rain and warm weather put a damper on our plans to ski this week so we headed back home a few days early. Awaiting me was a wonderful exchange from Valerie! Her work is absolutely beautiful, I am so impressed with both the stitching and finishing of this box. If I am not mistaken Valerie constructed the actual box. I am not sure how to do this but I wish she had a tutorial that would show me! The design is perfect and I truly love it.

• SBEBB Snowman Exchange
• Stitched by: Valerie
  

Valerie was more than generous, she filled the box with all of these great extras…thank you so much Valerie you made this such a great exchange!

While in Vermont, I was able to complete the Cole’s Quilt donation block. I must thank Jen for posting information about this program on her blog. I checked it out and immediately signed up to stitch a block. You can review the “Current Request” link and select a child to stitch for; I would encourage you to look.

• Cole's Quilt Donation Block
• Designer: Alma Lynn
• Leaflet: For Every Little Princess

I completed four of the five PIF's (Pay-It-Forward) items and sent them out to Brenda, Donna, Heather, and Jen. No, I did not forget you Pokua I will be sending you yours soon.

PIF Pinkeep for Heather

PIF Pincushion sent to:

• Brenda
• Donna
• Jen
  

I want to thank you for your thoughtful comments on my Yorkie post, they certainly made me feel better and I do believe that things happen for a reason. Although I do not have a new puppy to show you I know for certain that I will find the right one soon!

Wishing you all a year filled with many hours of relaxing stitching!

Until next time...



(Vonna, I liked your new signature so much I copied :})

Not so nice Renee - the Yorkie breeder

Bundle of cute Yorkie pups!

Can you believe how adorable these Yorkshire Terrier puppies are? I only wish they were all mine! I have been looking to purchase another Yorkie for quite some time and really thought that I had found one a few days ago. The only thing that I did find was an inconsiderate breeder, let’s call her Renee (because that is her name) and let’s say that Renee is from Missouri (because she is) and let’s say that her cell phone number is…okay I won’t go there, but if anyone is interested email me. I will say that she is in the 417 area code. “Not so nice Renee” placed an ad online stating that she would be in the Northeast, with an available puppy, on 12/13. Could I get any luckier, it was 12/13! I called her and she informed me that she had just checked into her hotel, let’s say in Providence, RI (because that is where she was) and YES, the adorable female puppy was available. We made plans to meet the next day at, let say Foxwood Casino in CT. The next morning I received a phone call from “not so nice Renee” letting me know that she had sold the puppy. CAN YOU BELIEVE???? She told me some story about how she had met some people at the airport the previous day who had expressed an interest in the dog, and that they were suppose to call her later. Late that night she received their phone call and she sold them the dog. Oh, she gushed about how terrible she felt but really now, should I believe her? No, she was not honest when she spoke with me at 3pm the day before when she knew of this buyer and failed to tell me. I am certain that she was stringing me along as her “back-up” plan. Had I know about the “potential” buyer I would not have felt nearly as bad. Trust me my entire family was disappointed, I was truly sad. :(

So, my wish for “not so nice Renee from Missouri” this holiday season: that you wake up to a stocking filled with coal - that's what happens when you're not nice!

And my Yorkie search continues….

For some happier news: My son submitted the very last college application today (he had 12), Yippee! My life will return to normal and I can get busy stitching.

Until next time...

Last Exchange for 2007 ~ Tissue Holder Pattern

During this busy time of year I am forced to limit the number of exchanges that I participate in however, there are a few that I can't resist. I recently sent out my last exchange for 2007, it was sent to Cathy. Having heard that she received it, I can now post pictures. I decided to stitch this stocking ornament for her.

USEBB: Ornament Exchange 2007

Designer: Nutmeg Needle

Design: Mini Stocking

USEBB: 2007 Ornament Exchange - Stitched for Cathy B.

Tissue Holder Pattern

If you are interested in making a Tissue Holder, like the one that I sent in my exchange to Cathy, you can get the instructions here. They are very easy to make and are a great way to use up those fabric scraps.

I have successfully completed 21 exchanges during 2007, most of them with USEBB, SBEBB, Seasonal Stitchers, and Fair & Square, . I have received so many gorgeous exchanges from Amber, Autumn, AmySC, Barbara, BeckyK, BeckySC, Carol, Carolynn, CathyB, Chris, Goldie, Heather, Helen, Isabelle, Juanita, Julianne, Katrina, Nicki, Paula, and Vonna. Let me again thank each of you for the time you spent stitching and finishing these beautiful pieces. I will forever treasure them!

A huge thank you to BeckySC for including me in the wonderful groups you manage. I look forward to participating in your 2008 exchanges!

A huge thank you to Vonna and Annemarie for including me in the Fair and Square Exchange. This is an amazing group of talented stitchers/friends!

During this extra busy time of year I know that it is difficult to find the time to read blogs. I truly appreciate your stopping by and commenting.

Until next time...

Ornament Exchange ~VoHRH~All about crafting

After a busy day, I arrived home to find a wonderful package waiting for me. Carol sent me a truly spectacular exchange! She stitched a design from my very favorite Prairie Schooler and did a beautiful job finishing it as a pinkeep Christmas Ornament. I promise you Carol, this ornament will be hung “front and center” on my Christmas tree for everyone to enjoy!

USEBB: Ornament Exchange

Design: ABC Santa Ornament

Designer: Prairie Schooler

Received from: Carol

Carol’s exchange package was filled with so many extras; adorable snowman coasters, scented candle wax melt, a ½ yard of very pretty red fabric, a much needed notepad and sticky notes, as well as a Mary Garry pattern, and the Vermont Hearts of America kit ~FANTASTIC!
Thanks so much Carol, your thoughtfulness brought much happiness into my day!!!

USEBB: 2007 Ornament Exchange

From: Carol

Although I did not meet the November 1st deadline for completing block #2, I was able to complete it by the December 1st date.

Village of Hawk Run Hollow Block #2
Carriage House Sampling

Rather than stitch "I-s-i-a-h" I made a few minor adjustments and I stitched it "I-s-a-i-a-h" ~ the correct spelling. It must be the perfectionist in me but this would have driven me nuts.

VoHRH Blocks #1 & 2

If anyone knows of errors/corrections on this chart I would appreciate it if you would let me know. Kathy, you had mentioned as error but I can't remember what it was. Will you email me or post it on your blog? Thanks!

ALL ABOUT CRAFTING

I have been tagged by Heather and as a result I will share with you some information on my life of crafting.

The rules are: Answer the following on your blog and then let five other bloggers know that you have tagged them to complete the meme.


1. When did you start to create and make craft?

Probably when I was about 8 or so. I can remember knitting a scarf for a very dear aunt who was moving from the Northeast to Florida…What was I thinking?

2. Why did you start creating?

It must be in my blood, I honestly do not know why. I certainly do not stem from a “crafty” family.

3. Why do you create?

Obsessive compulsive behavior perhaps(?) It makes me happy and content.

4. What do you create?

Quilts, all sorts of cross stitched items, redwork stitchery pillows, penny rugs, art dolls, and I have tackle the art of knitting socks.

5. Has this changed since you began crafting?

My interest in these different crafts changes with time. At present I would classify myself as an avid cross stitcher. A few years ago I was an avid quilter.

Now I need to tag some people for this meme. I will suggest a few names ~ If the urge overwhelms you feel free to play along: Donna, Jane, Kathy, Leena, and Pokua. Have fun!

A special thanks to the members of the Neighborhood RR that allowed me to jump in and join their group. I look forward to stitching with you. Thanks Vonna, for letting me kow about the available spot in this group!!! :)

Until next time...

Fall Exchange Received and Sent

I have been so bad about posting lately!!! However, I must share this Fall exchange with you.
I participated in the SBEBB Harvest Time Exchange and received a gorgeous exchange from Nicki~ She selected one of my favorite designers, Bent Creek and stitched the design over 1. Oh how I love over one! Nicki's stitching is gorgeous, I am so impressed. She finished into a darling pinkeep~I feel so lucky.

SBEBB: Harvest Time Exchange

Designer: Bent Creek

Stitched By: Nicki

She also surprised me with SIX very pretty specialty threads. Those silks feel amazing!In addition she sent my way a lovely piece of green hand dyed linen. I am so in need of a larger stash so THANKS!

Harvest Time Exchange from Nicki

Leena received my Seasonal stitcher's Fall exchange so I can share this picture with you. With the help of Vonna's tutorial I finished it off as a flat fold.

Seasonal stitcher's Fall Exchange

Designer: Homespun Elegance

Design: Wishing Thee Plenty

Stitched for: Leena

I just now packaged up my USEBB Ornament Exchange and it will be mailed out tomorrow. I will post pictures as soon as I hear that it has been received.

Block #2 of VoHRH is complete, Yahoo!!! I had planned to photograph it today but life got in the way. I will post a picture on or before the 12/1 deadline. I look forward to seeing everyones progress pictures, even if you did not complete the block be sure to share a photo.

Hope everyone enjoyed their holiday. I am still full!

Until next time...

Thanksgiving Recipe

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Each Thanksgiving I make homemade cranberry sauce using the recipe listed below. It has become a favorite at our table so I thought I would share it with you.

The pumpkin pie recipe is so easy, very fast, and delicious!

Apple Orange Cranberry Sauce
Yields: 4 cups

1/2 of an orange
2 cups water
1 granny smith apple
3 cups fresh cranberries
1 1/4 cups sugar
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground cloves

PREPARATION:
Squeeze the juice from the orange half and set the juice aside. Remove the membrane from the inside of the orange shell and discard. Cut the shell into very small pieces and put these into a small saucepan with the 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil and cook 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Peel, core, and chop apple into small pieces. Place in a saucepan. Sort the cranberries, discard soft ones and add to the apples. Add the reserved diced orange peel, the reserved orange juice, sugar, cinnamon, and cloves. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer and partially cover. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the cranberries burst~ 10-15 minutes.

Transfer to a bowl and let cool before serving or cover and refrigerate; bring to room temperature before serving.

Double Layer Pumpkin Pie

4 oz cream cheese
1 cup plus 1 Tbsp milk, divided
1 Tbsp sugar
8 oz tub cool whip, thawed, divided
6 oz Honey Maid Graham Pie Crust
15 oz can pumpkin
2 pkg (4-serving size each) Jello Vanilla Instant Pudding
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground ginger
¼ tsp ground cloves

PREPARATION:
MIX: cream cheese, 1 Tbsp milk and the sugar in a large bowl until well blended.
Gently stir in half of the whipped topping. Spread onto bottom of crust.
POUR: 1 cup milk into a large bowl. Add pumpkin, dry pudding mixes and spices.
Beat with wire whisk 2 minutes or until well blended. (Mixture will be thick)
Spread over cream cheese layer.
Refrigerate 4 hours or until set. Dollop with remaining whip topping.
Store in refrigerator.

I have not yet tried the recipe listed below but with all of the delicious Vermont Maple Syrup I have, this is one recipe that I must try.

Maple Cranberry Sauce

Yield: 4 cups

1 (12 ounces) package fresh cranberries, washed and picked over
1 cup maple syrup
1/2 cup cranberry-raspberry juice
1/2 cup fruity red Zinfandel wine
Grated zest of 1 orange
1 cup walnut halves, coarsely chopped

PREPARATION:
Place cranberries, maple syrup, juice, wine, and orange zest in a heavy saucepan.

Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium, and cook for 10 minutes, until cranberries begin to pop. Skim off any foam that rises to the top. Remove from heat and gently smash a bit to open the cranberries, but do not mash. Stir in walnuts. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until

ready to serve. You'll probably want to double this delicious cranberry sauce recipe. May be made up to a week in advance and kept refrigerated.

Cranberry Sauce leftovers ????

Yes you can make desserts using leftovers! For the best muffins you've ever tasted use leftover cranberry sauce as the filling. Buy a regular muffin mix, spoon the cranberry sauce into the middle and bake as directed. For a real treat use orange muffin mix!

Until next time...

Fair & Square~ Stitching Tips

My stitching partner for Fair and Square round #3 was Paula C. She told me that she plans on finishing her blocks as Ornaments (great idea), so I decided to stitch her a Christmas design from one of her favorite designers; Prairie Schooler.

Fair & Square round #3

Prairie Schooler book #48

A Christmas Visit

Fair & Square Exchange for Paula C.

Last week I received a wonderful gift in the mail. A very good friend of mine surprised me with this Twisted Oaks kit. It is absolutely gorgeous!!! While in Vermont I drove to The Whistling Duck, a great needlework shop in Williston, VT. I was able to purchase the fabric for this, but I will need to purchase the Dinky Dyes online before I can begin stitching.

Twisted Oaks Design: Honor Thy Needle-Pyramid Etui

If you are in search of Needle Necessities floss, which is no longer in business, I know that the Whistling Duck has some in stock. they do not have a website but you can phone them and place an order. The shop owners are so nice and extremely helpful.

I had a bit of a mishap with the finishing of one of my PIF's (pay it forward). I stitched part of an AMAP design, on white linen using red silk, with plans to finish it as a scissor holder. I am not sure where my head was, but I placed the piece (wrong side up) on my ironing board to press out any wrinkles. For some reason I got "wacky" with the spray bottle and almost drown the piece. After pressing it, mounting it onto cardboard, and preparing the back piece, I sandwiched it together and placed it under some heavy books. The next day I returned to my sewing room ready to stitch on the cording. To my shock I saw that the red from the thread had migrated onto the white linen UGH!!! With a Q-tip in hand I thought that maybe I could blot it out...no such luck. What would I do now? I know, I will wet it and try to get the thread to bleed all over the fabric. Would it look like hand-dyed fabric? I wish, but NO it looked worse. What would I do now? Throw it out! Yup, that's what I did. Sadly, someone out there would have been receiving their PIF, but must now wait until I stitch up a new one.

Some helpful hints for cross stitch can be found at The Caron Collection, Jay's Stitching Hints , and Bonnie's Cross Stitch Zone, Needlework FAQ's.

Thanks for stopping by. It is always so nice to read your comments and to see that someone new has visited!

Until next time...