Tea and Stitches

Big Basket

2012-01-26T12:30:00.000-06:00

Earlier this month I made a basket for my hubby to store all the papers and magazines he hoards around his "Dad Chair/Corner". I bought the kit years ago knowing one day I would need it. It is about as big as a 5 gallon bucket and holds lots of magazines.

Enjoy!!

CJ

TUSAL - January

2012-01-26T09:11:00.002-06:00

As usual I am late with my report--here is my little jars of ORTs.

Enjoy!!

CJ

CJC 2012 All Posted

2012-01-16T22:03:00.000-06:00

Some how I ended up with 16 new project starts on my CJC 2012 Challenge--one is already finished. I did change my mind about a few patterns and switched them out for projects that were screaming to get stitched. So here is a preview of may last three. These projects are basically the same, they are Name Trees for my kids. They were on my original CJC 2011 list, but as time went by I scrapped them, I was not liking the same fabric and color for each kiddo--it really did nor represents my kids. After rummaging through my fabrics I found three pieces that really felt right.

Allie Name Tree
M Designs
14ct Iridescent Pale Grey/Pink Aida
Carrie's Thread Love Always
This is for my little girl that loves pink.

Sam's Name Tree
M Designs
16ct Aida Hand Dyed Celedon
Carrie's Thread Passion Fruit
This is for the smartest little boy I know and love.

Maddie's Name Tree
M Designs
14ct Lilac Aida
Carrie's Thread Tye Dye
This is for my Hippy Girl, who love to say "Peace Out".

Great way to start the 2012 Challenge. Although, I still don't recall how I ended up starting 17 projects. Oh well, it's all good.

Enjoy!!

See ya,
CJ

CJC 2012 Project 11 and 12

2012-01-14T09:04:00.001-06:00

Well, I am a little bit behind but I plan to catch up this weekend. I have changed my mind on a few patterns and decided the majority of my projects will be Christmas items. This year I want to give stitched ornaments to my family and close friends and now is the perfect time to start so they will be ready by December. So here are 11 and 12.

Project 11 is a web freebie called Noel, I do not remember where I got it and I am hoping one of you can refresh my memory--most likely I found on the Freebie Gallery.

Noel Freebie
28ct Monaco
DMC Floss

Project 12 is a pumpkin freebie that was to cute to resist and a challenge. Once the stitching is finished then I have to join the stitched edges and stuff it to make a 3D pumpkin. This was another web freebie that I have had sitting in my "want to stitch pile forever". Not sure where I found it, again it may have been on the Freebie Gallery blog.

Pumpkin Freebie
28ct Monaco
DMC Varigated Floss

Enjoy!!

See ya,
CJ

CJC 2012 Starts 8, 9 and 10

2012-01-10T22:59:00.003-06:00

I can't believe I am keeping up with my projects, I may add a few more--call me crazy.Project #8 is Snowman 2011 freebie from Gazette 94 blog. She has stopped blogging but her page is still up--love her work.

Gazette 94 Snowman 2011
14ct White Aida
DMC Threads

Project #9 is another EMS Designs freebie, Jonquil (Daffodil). This one is for the Quilts for Older Children and Adults it will me added to a quilt for a young lady in the UK.

EMS Designs Jonquil
14ct White Aida
DMC Threads

Finally #10, I just added this one to my list a freebie from Prairie Schooler.

Prairie Schooler Christmas Freebie
28ct Monaco (Tea)
DMC Threads

You will notice lots of Christmas trees this year. I decided to make ornaments for Christmas 2012 and this challenge is the perfect way to get it done.

See ya!!

CJ

Another Stitching Finish

2012-01-09T19:53:00.001-06:00

Last night I finished stitching a piece for the Quilts for Older Children and Adults for a Breast Cancer Quilt. This is the second time I have stitched this Pink Carnation from EMS Designs, the first one I made for a Round Robin.

Enjoy!!

CJ

WIPocalypse - January 2012

2012-01-09T14:39:00.003-06:00

I have finally sorted through my WIP's and to my suprise there were not as many as I originally thought--thank goodness. My progress today was cleaning out my stitching to find out what was lingering inside. Now I just need to put them into my rotation.

Blue Ribbon Designs
Stop and Smell the Flowers
14ct Fiddlers Cloth and DMC Floss

Bent Creek
Red Thread Snapper
28ct Tea coloered evenweave
DMC, WDW and Gentle Arts Threads

Prairie Schooler
2007 Santa
28ct Tea Dyed Evenweave
DMC Threads

Blue Ribbon Designs
Peppermint Twist
14ct Sage Aida
DMC Threads

Enjoy!!

CJ

CJC 2012 #7 Started and Finished

2012-01-07T20:42:00.001-06:00

WooHoo!! I have my 7th CJC start and my first finish for 2012. This JSW Designs Trees in a Tree from the Christmas Tree Collection VII.

Trees in a Tree
14ct White Aida
DMC Threads

Enjoy!!

CJC 2012 Project #6

2012-01-06T21:33:00.000-06:00

I have started my 6th project, Heart Tree from the JBW Designs Christmas Tree Collection 1. This is a very quick stitch and it will make a cute ornament for my Christmas tree.

Heart Tree
28 ct Monaco
DMC Threads

Enjoy!!

CJ

CJC Projects 4 and 5

2012-01-05T18:44:00.001-06:00

I ws not able to post project number 4 yesterday, my camera battery needed charging. So here it is today. Aury TM Patriotic Heart 2009. I am stitching it in pink for
the Quilts for Older Children and Adults charity stitching group.

Patriotic Heart
14ct White Aida
DMC threads

My #5 start is EMS Panda Baby. It is also for Q4OCA charity group. I have to turn this one around quickly, it is due in PA by 1 Feb.

EMS Designs Panda Baby
14ct White Aida
DMC Threads

See ya!!

CJC Project #3 Started

2012-01-03T20:21:00.002-06:00

Here it is JBW Christmas Keepsakes 2-- Joy, Love and Peace. Porject #3 for the CJC 2012 challenge. This will be an easy one to finish.

Joy, Love, Peace
Sitiched on 28 ct Ivory Monaco

Happy Stitching!!

CJ

CJC 2012 Project #2 Started

2012-01-02T18:13:00.000-06:00

My second project, A Very Merry Christmas from JBW Designs is underway and I suspect it may be one of the first finished.

A Very Merry Christmas
16ct Fiddlers
WWD Threads

Enjoy!!

CJ

CJC 2012 Project #1 Started

2012-01-01T18:15:00.000-06:00

I could not help myself and joined the Crazy January Challenge again. Today I started my first project Ladybugs and Bumblebees from Country Cottage Needleworks.

Ladybugs and Bumblebees on 16ct Fiddlers

Hope you enjoyed the first day of the New Year.

See ya!!

CJ

Happy New Year and ORT Report

2012-01-01T17:49:00.003-06:00

Happy 2012 to everyone!!

I emptied my ORT jar today, it was so full and now I am ready to start again.

All my ORTs from 2011.

See ya!!

CJ

New Baskets and an Angel

2011-12-29T09:34:00.000-06:00

I have been very crafty this month along with baking a b-zillon biscotti, peppermint meringues and pumpkin I managed to weave up a few goodies.

Modified Sugar & Spice
Design by Pauline Asbury

Other side of Sugar & Spice

Chili Pepper
Desgined by Debbie Hurd

CJ's Mail Basket

Open Weave Angel
Designed by Marcia Ballewig

I have also been busy making changes to my blog as well as preparing for my 15 projects for the CJC 2012. I did not finish my 2011 list so I plan to add them to my UFO/WIP page. the 2012 projects will be small--good way to insure I finish them this year.

Happy New Year!!

See ya!

TUSAL - AKA New Moon Report December

2011-12-29T09:00:00.000-06:00

Here it is overflowing in my stitching corner, just waiting to be emptied. Look forward to doing this again in 2012.

My very full ORT

Belated Merry Christmas to all of you!!

See ya!!

CJ

Two Totes

2011-12-09T05:06:00.001-06:00

I love tote bags, I have several and I can't stop temptation when one catches my eye. I just love totes, they are so useful and I never have problem finding things to put in my various totes. I have two totes for my basket weaving materials, one large tote for cross stitch, several totes for grocery shopping, a tote for each child and bunches of extra's just in case I need them.

Now I have taken it to the next level--I have a basket tote. It is called My Favorite Tote, pattern by Marcia Ballewig of Oklahoma Basket Supply. It is small, 4x9x10 and I use it to carry my basket weaving tools. It was so easy to weave, so easy I had to make a second for a gift.

Enjoy!!

CJ

TUSAL - AKA New Moon Report November

2011-11-30T04:28:00.001-06:00

As usual I am late with my report--at least it is not December yet. (Hehehe) My little jar is stuffed full, waiting to be emptied on 1 January just to start all over again.

Hope everyone had a nice Thanksgiving Holiday!!

See ya!!

My poor, neglected blog.....

2011-11-26T07:32:00.000-06:00

Dear Blog,

I am so sorry I have not visited you at all this November. Oh, what a November I have had full of activities, celebrations and doctor visits. Where do I begin? Hmm..

I guess the beginning is good.  The first weekend of the month I attended the Oklahoma Basket Weavers Guild annual Weavers Weekend at Canyon Camp in Hinton, There I spent hours upon hours making baskets, weaving a bench seat and a footstool. I tried some Christmas ornaments but they were a total disaster.   Overall a great weekend spent with four good friends (despite the 5.6 quake in Oklahoma) and good food. Exhausting but fun, fun, fun.

I returned from my weekend to find my DS sick with fever that would not go away. Monday morning we visit the Urgent Care Clinic to discover he has the dreaded STREP.   Poor boy had to stay home for two days and miss his class field trip to River Bend Nature Center.

Then Friday rolled around, Veterans Day, both hubby and I are retired vets. The kids had to go to school--no holiday for them. But they had a special meal that day so Dad and I had lunch with the kids and 600 other people. Afterwards DH and I went to see to the movie to see J. Edgar -- little date for us.

Saturday morning DH and DD#1 headed to Dallas for a weekend of fun. They visited Legoland, Bass Pro Shop and attended the Cowboy-Lions game. While they were gone I had to make the second trip in one week to the Urgent Care Clinic. My DS woke with fever and nasty urine -- he has a condition that makes him prone to UTI's. So after a dose of intramuscular therapy and new antibiotics he was good to go. Although the shot did make him want to walk like an 80 year old man.

Then here comes the next week. My DD#2 has a meltdown at school and misses half a day. My son has an ultra sound to check out his kidneys, hubby and son both visit the dentist and my MIL comes for a visit. I bought a laptop and WiFi router for hubby. We ended the week with my hubby having foot surgery on Friday. Which means he is off his feet for a minimum of one week so his mother and I are waiting on him for his every need and desire (thus the need for laptop and router). We are WiFi enabled now--but in a secure way. During all this I managed to finish my last part of the Village Stitcher's Round Robin and get it in the mail--forgot to take a pic of it.

I did manage to visit the annual Hangar Holiday Christmas Fair put on by the Officer Spouses Club. My dear friend and basket weaving buddy had a booth there so I stopped by to give her a potty break. She did very well at this year's event and signed up to do it all again in 2012.

DD#2's class had a Friendship Salad Celebration on the 22nd. each child brought fruit to share. I helped her teacher prepare a fruit salad and make popcorn for the kids. This is a great lesson on sharing, turn taking and talking about being thankful.

The kids have been out of school since the 22nd, I have baked four batches of biscotti and one batch of giant ginger cookies.  I completed a tote basket for a Christmas gift, cooked Thanksgiving dinner and cleaned up my craft room (the dinning room) so we got to eat at the big table. As for Black Friday, I headed out at 7am, but there was not much out there that I wanted so I only came home with a few goodies for the kids at Christmas.

As for today, well again it will be busy. I have to make Peppermint Biscotti for MIL, Banana Rum Biscotti for my niece and weave one more basket. Oh, yes and answer hubbies calls from the bedroom. Hopefully football will keep him occupied today. I also need to fit in taking the kids to see Happy Feet II.   Good thing the laundry is done, thanks MOM!!

So as you can see little blog I have been very busy and did not mean to totally neglect you. I promise I will be back very soon with my TUSAL update.

See ya!!

CJ

TUSAL - AKA ORT Report

2011-10-30T06:48:00.000-05:00

Well the new moon of October has come and gone that means I am late again with my ORT Report. I have been stitching and my little jar continues to overflow as I continue to squish those threads down as far as they will go. This is all the bits I have managed to save since January. At times it has come in handy when I have run out of a color. Several times I have had to sift through the multicolored mess to find the right scraps to finish one or two stitches--that can be stressful.

Be sure to visit Daffycat, aka Queen Mum of the ORT, she is have a Blogoversary Giveaway. Be sure to leave her some love.

Enjoy!!

CJ

Christmas Card with Bird

2011-10-27T10:14:00.000-05:00

New card I came up with this week for a challenge #47 on the Weekly Christmas Card Challenge Blog. Got it all right except forgot to add ribbon, but not real sure where I would put it. I used this design for cards I made this summer and it translated really well into a Christmas card.

Card Recipe:
Sentiment: Printed from PC in Word
Paper: GinaK Heavy Base Weight White, Designer Paper Basic Grey Eskimo Kisses
Other: SU Word Window, Two-Step Bird and Modern Label Punches, SU Shimmer Paint, Rhinestone Brad, SU Dimensionals and Tape Runner

Enjoy!!

CJ

Black and White Christmas Card

2011-10-22T14:50:00.000-05:00

My Christmas Cards All Year group had a challenge to make a black and white card for the month of October. This was difficult for me, since I am not real fond of black and white cards. The layout was inspired by a Feature Friday Guest Card Maker post on OWH Stars and Stamps Blog. I really liked this layout and knew I needed to case it. Still not sure if I like this card or not but it is on it's way to Canada now.

Card Recipe:

Stamped Sentiment: Hero Arts Holiday Sayings
Paper: Stampin Up Whisper White, Bazzil Basic Black, and Paper Studio Black/White/Gray Plaid
Ink: Versa Ink Black
Other: SU Large Snow Flake and Modern Label Punches, Martha Stewart Glitter, Sliver Ribbon from stash, SU Star Brad, SU Dimensionals and Tape Runner

Enjoy!!

CJ

Stitching News

2011-10-16T05:06:00.001-05:00

October is turning out to be a great month for stitching and finishing. It has been forever since I have stitched and finished a project having it ready to display or present to someone. I usually stitch it, then store it or ship it out. Not so this month I have two finishes to share, yes, I said two--even I can't believe it.

First up, way back in 2008 or maybe it was 2007, I joined a little Round Robin group--actually my first ever RR. For this adventure I choose Prairie Birds (booklet 24) from Prairie Schooler. The RR was a success and everyone got their pieces back and mine went into the cupboard. So here comes Thursday morning (10/13), I take the kids to school and now it is time to put together the scissor fob for Ms H. that I had stitched up in the spring. It had to be done by 1pm, because I needed to be at school for a meeting and two parties. Well, ninety minutes later I had totally given up on the fob, it just was not working out. Panic!! What to do? Hmmm. I pulled out my storage box of stitched pieces and voila, there are those lovely stitched birds. I pick put a bird, do a little ironing, throw it on a block, add dark green and cream checked fabric and a lovely fall colored wire ribbon. Done!! Now I am ready to wrap. How easy was that--very easy.

Prairie Birds, Booklet 24, Humming Bird

Stitched on 14ct Ivory Aida with DMC floss

Next, another Prairie Schooler creation in a block for the Rotating Designer Exchange. For this project I selected the pumpkin from A Prairie Year, booklet 6, which I believe is retired. I really like how this turned out and I am truly enjoying making blocks. Now it is all wrapped and boxed in the hands of the postman on the way to it's new home.

A Prairie Year, Booklet 6, October Pumpkin,
Stitching on 28ct Evenweave with DMC Floss

Lastly, I received my Rotating Designer Exchange from Conny. It is from Prairie Schooler Booklet 90, Spring and Fall. It is so well made, I love it and I am very thankful. This was a fun and very well organized exchange and I look forward to the next round.

Prairie Schooler, Spring and Fall, Booklet 90
Rotating Designer Exchange from Conny

Congrats to the Texas Rangers on making it to the World Series--woohoo!!

Thanks for stopping by and I truly enjoy your comments.

See ya!!

CJ

EMS Wild Rose

2011-10-09T06:02:00.000-05:00

I managed to finish another project for the Stitcher's Village Round Robin. The owner of this piece let us choose the project to stitch as long as it was a rose. So after many hours searching I decided to go with EMS Wild Rose, a free pattern in the 2010 Flower Series. I stitched this on 14ct white Aida using DMC threads.

I really like this series and plan to stitch more of these lovely flowers.

Enjoy!!

Simple Thanksgiving Card

2011-10-08T05:53:00.000-05:00

This week I put together a very simple Thanksgiving card for a swap. I really love the fall colors of the striped paper against the dark brown cardstock.

Card Recipe:

Stamped Sentiment: Stampin Up, Itty Bitty Words

Paper: Pure Luxury Chocolate Brown card stock and Paper Studio striped paper
Ink: SU Chocolate Chip
Other: Chocolate Chip ribbon from SU, Paper Studio orange flower, SU Chocolate Chip corduroy brad, SU Dimensionals and Elmers Tape Runner

Enjoy!!

CJ

Little Brown Pony Finished

2011-10-06T06:50:00.000-05:00

The Little Brown Pony is finished and in PA getting ready to be added to a quilt. I stitched this up on 14ct Aida using DMC threads. This was the first time in a long time that I have stitched a project that is solid. Man, what a lot of work.

Enjoy!!

CJ

TUSAL - AKA New Moon Report

2011-10-01T10:59:00.000-05:00

Okay, I am four days late this time, but at least I am posting about my little jar of scrappy treasures. Today it is overflowing cause I had a busy stitching time.

Enjoy!!

CJ

Family Project

2011-09-09T07:37:00.000-05:00

The kids and I had a lot of fun making little bird houses from designer paper. I found the pattern here on the Chic-n-Scratch blog a great place to find cute paper crafts. My daughter made the black, crooked house and my son made his own blue bird for his orange house. The one I made ended up as a teacher gift with a coordinating Post-it note pad.

Enjoy!!

See ya!

CJ

Card and Matching Gift Bag Swap

2011-09-07T19:23:00.000-05:00

Last week I participated in a card and matching gift bag exchange. It took me several days to figure out exactly what I was going to do. Finally I decided to make the bag from an envelope (called a bag-a-lope) and color the paper with shaving cream and ink. I felt like I was back in preschool playing with all that shaving cream. This is one that I made and it turned out to be my favorite. I did two with multiple colors and 4 with solid colors using the same stamp set. Overall very pleased with my little project.

See ya!!

Stitcher's Challenge 2011 Finish

2011-09-05T06:33:00.000-05:00

The Yahoo group Quilits for Older Childrena and Adults hosted a stitcher challenge this year that had particular themes. You could stitich as many projects as you liked as long as you did them one at a time--meaning you could not sign up for another until you completed one. I am happy to announce that I completed one, not sure if I will do another my plate is getting full.

I chose to a sea life pattern for my project and it took me a while to find the right pattern and being the thrifty lady that I am it had to be free. After weeks of searching I found Seashells by the Seashore bu Ursula Michaels on Krenik's website. I substituted the krenik with DMC and stitched it up PDQ. It is stitched on 14 ct white aida --standand requirement for the group--using all DMC floss. Tomorrow it is off to Pennsylvania to be added to the rest of the squares for the Love Quilts Brazil project. To learn more about Love Quilts click here.

Enjoy your Labor Day!

See ya!!

CJ

TUSAL - AKA New Moon Report

2011-09-02T17:06:00.000-05:00

Oh, I am so late with this post. I forgot there were two new moons in August. I did get some stitching done, tune in tomorrow for a post about a finish and some other Crazy stuff.

Here is how my little jar looks today. Getting full, but I just keep on squishing it all down. It will be emptied on 1 Jan 2012 to start all over again.

Enjoy!!

TUSAL - AKA New Moon Report December

2011-08-30T21:12:00.001-05:00

Hurray, I made it to December without emptying my little jar. It is over flowing and waiting desperately to be cleaned out on 1 Jan to start anew. This is a picture of it in my stitching corner -- please pardon my mess. DaffyCat, sorry I am late with my post.

Belated Merry Christmas to you all and Happy New Year!!

See ya!!

CJ

Round Robin Finish

2011-08-10T07:02:00.000-05:00

After a little stitching drought (lol) I have finished a project. This a pink (looks red but it is really pink) carnation from EMS' 2010 Flower of the Month free patterns. The owner of this piece in the RR left it up to the stitchers to pick the project as long as it was a flower theme. So I found out her birth month and selected the carnation. It was a bit of a challenge to stitch because July was a crazy month in our household and the dreaded frog visited this piece on several occasions.

Speaking of a busy month. All of July and the first week of August was crazy we had a former exchange student and her hubby visit for two weeks. Took two three out of town trips to Dodge City, Eureka Springs and Dallas. Throw in a week of VBS--where I volunteered and visits to the eye doctor, speech therapist, my doctor and Church mini-mission for the kids--I was busy. Now that everyone is gone I am trying to return to my normal routine and hopefully back to my blog--I have so many blogs to read and catch up on how you all are doing. I miss all of you.

We continue to roast here in North Texas, my yard is brown and the city has entered stage 1 of water restrictions. They are telling us to only water between 6pm and 11am and not to use sprinkler systems. So I am just watering my trees and potted plants. Hopefully we will have green grass next year.

See ya!!

Another Christmas Card Swap

2011-08-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a 5x5 square Christmas card I made today inspired by OWH Sktech #79. Very simple and oh, so cute!! Decided to try a square this time.

Card Recipe:

Stamped Sentiment: Hero Arts

Paper: SU Crumb Cake and Rich Razzleberry, Designer Paper Basic Grey Eskimo Kisses

Ink: SU Rich Razzleberry

Other: SU Dimensionals and Tombow Tape Runner

Enjoy.

See ya!!

TUSAL The Second July New Moon -- AKA The ORT Report

2011-07-31T15:05:00.000-05:00

My little jar is filling up slowly. Not much stitching done this month due to two weeks of vacation. I need to get back at it. Hope you all are having a great summer, we are roasting in Texas. Please pray for rain for the farmers and thier animals.

See ya!!

Is it too early to say, "Merry Christmas"?

2011-07-10T06:27:00.000-05:00

Operation Write Home Stars and Stamps Blog is having a "Beat the Heat with the holidays in July" card making challenge. This week's challenge Christmas in July, that was my cue to jump in and make a card. I used OWH Sketch #75 as my inspiration.

Card Recipe:

Stamp: Hero Arts
Paper: SU Crumb Cake and Whisper White, Designer SU Jolly Holiday
Ink: SU Chocolate Chip
Other: Michael's Recollection Brand Flower and Gossamer Ribbon, Dimensionals, Sticky Strip and Elmer's Tape Runner

Please pray for rain down south we really need it. Have a Sunday.

Enjoy!!

CJ

TUSAL July New Moon -- AKA The ORT Report

2011-07-01T10:00:00.001-05:00

Happy July!!! We have had a miserably hot June in North Texas. The drought is awful and my yard is turning brown no matter how much I water. Not sure how much more of this we can take. Wild fires pop up constantly and the wind never stops blowing. We need a break. Please pray for rain for my little part of the USA.

I am happy to announce I completed 3 stitching projects in June and I have a few goodies in my bag to work on in July. My little jar is getting full, but I just keep smashing it all together so I can add more and more ORTs. This little jar has come in handy, especially when I only need one (yes, one) stitch of yellow to complete a project. So I dug through my jar of odds, ends and scraps, found a bit of yellow that would work, one-half stitch and viola, project complete.

I wish all of you a safe and happy 4th of July, no fireworks in North Texas this year to the extreme drought and fire danger. We are spending the weekend in Dodge City Kansas at a World of Outlaws race--woohoo!! Thanks for stopping by. I really appreciate all your comments.

See ya!!

CJ

RR Finish

2011-06-29T22:00:00.006-05:00

Yesterday, I completed part 3 of a Round Robin hosted by the Stitchers' Village. This project was small but the back stitching was a bear. The design is from a British stitching magazine not sure which one, it is a series of six cute little kitties. I quite am happy to send this little kitty on to the next stitcher.

See ya!!

What a bargain!!

2011-06-28T21:58:00.000-05:00

Last week I walked into Michaels with a 20% off coupon that included sale items and I walked out with a brnda new Ott Lite. Originally priced $59.99, on sale for $19.99, with additional discount I paid $15.99. Now I call that a bargain. This lamp is sitting on a table by my stitching chair and I love it. Stitching is so much easier with a good light.

See ya!!

A personnal note!

2011-06-26T07:06:00.000-05:00

My heart is filled with joy! This is not something I would usually share with my blogging buddies, but I need to share this with you. After 22 years my hubby and I have finally found a church home. For years we never looked and decided that our fundamental differences would keep us at home on Sunday. That is what happens when a Catholic marries a Baptist.

We had children late in life, I was 40 when we brought our first baby home from China. We knew they needed to be raised in the Church--which church was the question. Finally the kids were asking (actually demanding) us to find a place of worship. At this point we knew something had to be done, we needed to make that step.  We are also certain there was some divine intervention on behalf of one neighbors who has been praying for us to find a church since we moved here 6 years ago.

On Easter we went to service at our neighbor's church. Immediately upon entering the sanctuary we felt at home. We experienced a feeling total calm and comfort, alsmost like going home--I have not felt this way in a church for many years (actually since my teenage years). My hubby actually enjoyed the service and wanted to learn more. Fast forward to Sunday, 12 June, we arrived a little early and had a chance to visit with the Pastor with questions about baptising our children. (Something I have wanted to do since we brought them home.) My oldest two decided they could not wait, they wanted to do it right away (this is the short version). By the end of service we had become members (no longer visitors) of the First United Methodist Church and our children have been baptized.   That was truly a spontaneous moment--not our intention when we woke up that morning. In the end a wonderful day for the entire family.

Hubby and I were both active duty military and we moved every 3 years. It has been difficult to feel totally settled and connected since we moved so much.  Now that we are retired it is time to truly settle down and make roots, I think we have finally done it. We feel more grounded and connected to our community now.

CJ

Thinking of You - Starburst Card

2011-06-21T09:43:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I saw a starburst card on Julie's blog and I knew I had to make one. Thankfully she had the link to the tutorial on OWH Stars and Stamps that I missed last week. I was so busy last week I barely read any blog updates--hopefully I can catch up this week. I loved making this card and I plan to make lots more. The designer paper is one I have had for a long time waiting for the right projects. Honestly, it is not one of my favorite paper packs (impulse buy) but it works really well for this card. As for the card base, I have finally found a use for the Soft Suede cardstock I have had for over 2 years.

Card Recipe:

Stamp: Sentiment Stampin Up Whimsical Words
Paper: SU Soft Suede and GinaK Heavy Base Weight Ivory, Designed Paper K&Company Classic K Charlotte
Ink: SU Soft Suede
Other: Modern Label & Butterfly Punch, Dimensionals, Stick-on Blingy Brads, Sticky Strip and Elmer's Tape Runner, Michaels Gossamer Ribbon, Fiskars Paper Crimper

Enjoy! Thanks for stopping by.

See ya!!

CJ

Crazy January Challenge Project #9 Finished

2011-06-12T08:00:00.000-05:00

Les Petites Lettres Rouge by Blackbird Design has now landed in my stitching completed pile. That is two projects in one week for me. I am very happy to be done with this one. It took me a few months to decide how I wanted to end it and what little extras I wanted to add. In the end I am very happy with it and look forward to framing it up and hanging in my bathroom.

Thanks for stopping by.

See ya!!

CJ

Friend Card

2011-06-11T15:28:00.000-05:00

Hey there! Here is a new card I put together using Stars and Stamps Sketch # 72 for the their Second Million Challenge. Can you believe it? Over one million cards made for OWH to send to our troops. I am hoping to send off a box of 50 cards for the June challenge.

Card Recipe:

Sketch: OWH Stars and Stamps Sketch #72

Stamp: Sentiment Stampin Up Teeny Tiny Wishes
Paper: Card Base GinaK Heavy Base Weight White, Designed Paper received in swap

Ink: Stampin Up Early Espresso

Other: Two Step Bird, Modern Label and Word Window punches, Dimensionals, Stick-on Brads, Sticky Strip and Elmer's Tape Runner

Enjoy.

See ya!!

Bent Creek Snow & a Swap

2011-06-11T08:00:00.001-05:00

I started it in January as part of the Crazy January Challenge and after putting it down for several months I picked it up and finished the stitching last night while watching an episode of Swamp People--first time I ever watched it and boy, what people are willing to do to make a living. Oh, I am so happy to move to my pile of stitching finishes that just need to be assembled into something useful. I think I will frame this one. It is stitched on 14ct light blue Aida--not a very good photo. I promised myself this year to use what I have in my stash and not buy any new material. So far so good.

If anyone is interested the pattern and would like to trade another pattern for it just drop me a note. I am willing to trade for another Bent Creek, LHN, or JBW Designs just to name a few.

Enjoy!! Thanks for stopping by.

See ya!!

One more Coffee House Mystery completed, two to go!!

2011-06-10T08:48:00.000-05:00

Love, love, love a good Coffee House Mystery and Cleo Coyle's, Espresso Shot hit the mark. An absolutely entertaining and enjoyable book. Cleo and her new love finally got together, hope it works out for them. Her ex is remarried, but not out of the picture. Now I just have to wait for the next two books in this series to pop up on PaperBackSwap. A cozy mystery is just what this mom of three needs at the end of a busy day--great way to clear the mind. At least that is how I like to de-stress.

Once Espresso Shot was finished I picked up Monica Ferris's Framed in Lace, the second installment in the Needlecraft Mystery series. Main character Besty Devonshire somewhat reluctantly solves her second murder mystery. While not very exciting, this series is a fun read. The stories are centered around people who visit a particular needlework store "Crewel World" and the story includes lots of needlework talk and a free pattern. The author is very eclectic, loves to cross stitch--my kind of girl-- and loves to wear hats. The free pattern I adapted for a card exchange, you can see it here.

Anxiously waiting on my bookshelf are three books from Cleo Coyles' Haunted Bookshop Mystery series written under the nome du plume, Alice Kimberly. I am so excited to start reading The Ghost and Mrs McClure, but that will have to wait until I am finished with Lowcountry Summer by Dorthea Benton Frank. Hubby bought this book for me on Mother's Day and this time he got it right, I feel in love on page one. The main character Caroline is totally captivating--I will be reading more by this author.

Thanks for stopping by.

See ya!!

TUSAL June New Moon -- AKA The ORT Report

2011-06-01T19:01:00.000-05:00

Here is my monthly "ORT" report. I did stitch a bit last month, but not as much as I would have liked. Actually finished two projects, one RR for the Village Stitchers RR group and then the butterfly card. No picture of the RR piece cause my wonderful children had my run off with my camera. My little jar is pretty packed, I keep squishing the threads down so I can make this last to 31 December.

Happy June to everyone, it is already stinkin' hot in North Texas.

See ya!!

Stars and Stamps Memorial Day Weekend Blog Hop

2011-05-28T08:58:00.038-05:00

Happy Memorial Weekend and thanks for stopping by my blog on your journey through the OWH Memorial Day Weekend Blog Hop. I used OWH Sketch #69 to create this card, the sketch has become one of my favorites. The color combo is so fitting for Memorial Day Weekend. Have a great holiday weekend with your friends and family and don't forget to include our troops past and present in your prayers.

Card Recipe:

Sketch: OWH Stars and Stamps Sketch #69

Stamp: Recollections

Paper: Card Stock Stampin Up Cherry Cobbler and Whisper White, K and Company Americana

Ink: Stampin Up Real Red

Other: Scallop Circle Punch, Circle Punches, 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon, Paper Crimper, Dimensionals, Stick-on Brads, Sticky Strip and Elmer's Tape Runner

Thanks for stopping by. Your next stop will be at Megan's blog.

Enjoy!!

Joy!!

2011-05-26T09:40:00.002-05:00

I made some Christmas cards this week that I want to share with you. This has to be one of my favorite sketches from Operation Write Home so far. I will definitely make more of these to add to my stash to send to OWH this fall for Christmas Card Call. I may even exchange a few with my swap buddies.

Card Recipe:

Stamp: Recollections

Paper: Card Stock Stampin Up Craft, Cherry Cobbler, Pear Pizazz and Whisper White, Basic Grey Eskimo Kisses
Ink: Stampin Up Real Red

Other: Nestabilities Labels One, Michaels 3/8" Sheer White Ribbon, Paper Crimper, Dimensionals, Stick-on Brads, Sticky Strip and Elmer's Tape Runner

Don't forget to stop by this weekend for the OWH Memorial Weekend Bloghop.

See ya!!

CJ

How about a card and some stitching?

2011-05-19T16:27:00.000-05:00

Last week I participated in a cross stitched card swap it was so much fun, I just had to share it with you. I stitched up a butterfly with variegated floss from Carrie's Creation on a scrap of 14ct Aida. The pattern is by designed by Denise Williams and included in the book I am reading called Framed in Lace, by Monica Ferris. Take a look.

And this is what I received from Heather in Northern Ireland. You should check out her well organized blog, Heather's Stitching Story, she is a very talented stitcher.

Enjoy!!

Sorry for the delay. Giveaway anouncement!!

2011-05-11T17:03:00.000-05:00

I have been busy with school Book Fair since last Thursday and totally forgot about the giveaway--not enough hours in the day to visit my blog. I have 5 comments for the giveaway so here goes. According to Random.org number 2 is the winner, C in DC. Please contact me with your snail mail so I can send you the charts.

Have a great day.

See ya!!

CJ

TUSAL May New Moon -- AKA The ORT Report

2011-05-03T14:35:00.000-05:00

I must say I have impressed myself with my ability to keep up with this New Moon/Ort Report. I managed to get some stitching done in April, but not as much as I would have liked. I am hoping for a much better turn out in May, especially since I have some teachers gifts to make as well.

Don't forget to check out my little giveaway below. Have a great May!!

See ya!

Cj

Card News!!

2011-05-01T07:22:00.000-05:00

I am so excited to announce that one of my cards has been posted on the Operation Write Home Stars and Stamps blog. Several months ago OWH put out a call for sample card makers and I was picked to make a card. A sketch was sent to me, I submitted my card and just kept quiet all these months. Now I can talk about it. I was so honored to make a card for this wonderful organization that does so much for our deployed troops. Here is the link so take a peak and give some love to OWH Stars and Stamps.

Be sure to check out my stitching giveaway below.

See ya!!

CJ

Stitching Update and a Small Giveaway

2011-05-01T06:59:00.000-05:00

Happy 1st of May!! This year has flown by ever so quickly. I am so happy to share with you two stitching finishes. The first is Plum Berry Sampler from Bent Creek is on my Crazy January Challenge stitching list. That makes 7 of 15 projects complete on that list. Can I get a "WOOHOO"!! Very nice little project. This will be assembled into an end of the year teacher gift.

My second project to share with you, Tis The Season by JBW Designs, was not on my CJC list. It was something I started before Christmas but just finished last week when I recieved the Just A Button Company small red star from 123Stitch.com. This will be a present for Christmas for one of my dearest friends. I think it would make a nice flatfold--at least that is easy to display and simple to put-up after the holiday.

Now that all that is done how about a little giveaway?? Since I am not one to stitch a pattern more than once I am happy to send these patterns off to one lucky person (sans buttons). To qualify please leave me a comment and link my giveaway on your blog--in other words share the news about my giveaway. I will pick a winner on the 8th, my baby girls birthday.

More to follow!!!

See ya!!

Stitcher's Village Round Robin

2011-04-25T20:45:00.001-05:00

I recently joined a six person round robin on on The Stitcher's Village Forum. Our little group is called the Night Owls, since most of us stitch at night. My project, Peppermint Twist by Blue Ribbon Designs, was stitched up and shipped out on the 18th. This group is restricted to Aida so I choose to use 14ct, platinum from DMC. It will be a nice contrast for the red, white, gold and green floss. I stitched all the border's and my fellow stitchers will pick an area to stitch. They can stitch as much as they want, it is their choice. I am just so happy to have this one started. Don't mind the wrinkles I will press it out later.

Finished sample from BRD site. Love this frame.

This is what I am stitching this round, it is call Black cats and Flying Bats also from BRD.

See ya!!

Cards, Cards, Cards

2011-04-12T12:42:00.000-05:00

My first (craft) love has always been cross stitch, but lately I find myself making more cards. I am taken in by all the challenges and sketches that are hard to resist at times. Here are a few I have made over the last week.

These are one of a kind cards made for card swaps on Swap-Bot. The yellow card swap was it had to be spring themed and it had to be yellow--I made sure it was yellow. The pink card is for Easter. Frankly, I am not a big bunny fan so I thought the same flower image would work. Overall very happy with the outcome. Plan to make a similar card for another garden themed swap.

Card Recipe: (All Stampin Up unless noted)

Base - Daffodil Delight and Blushing Bride
DSP - misc squares from swap stash
Stamp Set - Image/big sentiment from GinaK Electic Summer
Happy Easter from Stampin Up Teeny Tiny Wishes
Ribbon - misc scraps from my stash
Ink - Early Espresso, Staz-On Black
Tools - Paper Crimper, Nestabilites Labels One, Classic Scallop Circles and Labels,
Scallop Oval Punch, Slot Punch, and Word Window Punch
Extra - Yellow card image colored with chalks using a blender pen.
Pink Card image colored with color pencils and mineral spirits.

These cards were made for a Swap Your Speciality swap with an Owl theme. The small card are 3x3 with an insert for a note. They would be good for swaps or gift tag. I was really pleased with how they turned out. I used the sketch above for this card and the two below.

Card Recipe: (All Stampin Up unless noted)

Base - Pumpkin Pie
DSP - Sunny Garden
Stamp Set - Punch Bunch and Hero Arts Thank-You Sayings
Ink - Chocolate Chip
Tools - Paper Crimper, Large Oval Punch and Circle Punch

This is such a nice layout from the Clean and Simple Blog this week. I will be entering them in their weekly challenge just for fun.

Card Recipe: (All Stampin Up unless noted)

Base - Rich Razzleberry and Pumkin Pie
DSP - squares from swap, Basic Grey and Sunny Garden
Stamp Set - Hero Arts Thank-You Sayings and Everyday Sayings
Ink - Early Espresso, Whisper White Craft
Extra - White SU flower dyed Rich Razzleberry and colored Peach Parfait
Antique Brads (really love them)

Now I really need to get back to my stitching I have a RR to send off this week.

See ya!!

CJ

TUSAL April New Moon -- AKA The ORT Report

2011-04-04T06:36:00.000-05:00

Another new moon has come to pass and my ORT jar is still here collecting little bits. I had to squish it all down so I can keep adding more bits to it. My goal is to empty it on the 12th new moon. As for stitching, I did stitch a lot in March just did not get a lot finished. But this month I will have lots of finishes and a few new starts to share. (Yes, I did say starts--at least three.) Enjoy looking at my little jar. Since we are having such a horrible windy day in North Texas I plan to stay in and stitch my day away--my yard work can wait for another day. lol

See ya!!

CJ

And the winner is......

2011-03-29T13:00:00.000-05:00

Virpi!! She was selected by random.org to receive the stitching magazines I posted for a giveaway. I have contacted her for her address. Thanks to all of you who commented on that post.

See ya!!

One more Coffee House Mystery put to bed!!

2011-03-29T06:39:00.000-05:00

Yep, I have finished my sixth (that's right 6) book in the Coffee House Mystery series by Cleo Coyle. Thoroughly thrilling and I am happy to announce that Clare Cosi (the main character) finally got her man -- in a lovey sort of way. I tried to pick up a new book, by a different author--just could not do it with the next Coffee House installment, Espresso Shot, sitting on my shelf. Oh well!!

French Pressed is now listed Paperback Swap for the next happy reader.

See ya!!

Two Cards--Four Challenges

2011-03-22T14:01:00.000-05:00

Today I have two cards to share with you. One is a Christmas Card and the other is just a cute card for Spring. That is all the cards for this week, I need to get back to my stitching, oh, and the laundry needs some attention. Enjoy!!

Card Recipe: (All Stampin Up unless noted)

Base - Pear Pizazz (love this color)

DSP - Jolly Holiday

Stamp Set - Holiday Happiness

Ink - Early Espresso (my new fav)

Rub On - Karen Foster

Extra Stuff - Crystal Effects

Challenges:

Christmas Card Challenge

Alphabet Challenge "T is for Tree"

Christmas Card Challenge #16

Card Recipe: (All Stampin Up unless noted)

Base - Rich Razzleberry (love this color)

DSP - Green at Heart from Basic Grey (if they ever retire this pack, I will be so sad)

Ink and Ribbon - Rich Razzleberry

Butterfly and DSP border are from the last sheet I had of an old SU, sorry can't remember the name and they no longer carry it.

I will put a sentiment on this card just not sure what yet.

Challenges:

OWH S&S Sketch Challenge #61

Paper Cutz Challenge #83

See ya!!

Another OWH Challenge Card - Scallops

2011-03-19T19:03:00.000-05:00

This week the Wendesday Challenge from Operation Write Home was to make a card with scallops. I was having so much fun I made two. These are thank-you cards that will be sent to OWH for the troops. I used the same materials for both cards. GinaK Designs Kraft card stock for the card base, Stampin Up Early Expresso Ink, Hero Arts sentiment, and Kioshi Paper Pack from Basic Grey (love Basic Grey paper packs). OWH card sketch 58 was used for one of my cards.

Sketch #58

See ya!!

PS - Don't forget to check out my giveaway posted below.

Three More Stitching Projects Finished, plus a giveaway.

2011-03-17T15:17:00.000-05:00

Well at least the stitching is done. I have completed three more projects that makes a total of nine this year and it is only March. Can you see me dancing "The Happy Dance" under my imaginary disco ball? lol

The first project is something I started in the summer of 2008 while on a trip to Ohio. Well, I ran out of the speciality floss I was using and it was a limited edition. Since I could not get the same floss, I was just boo-hooing about the whole thing and put it up. I did have a great suggestion from Meari to frog the alphabet and find a coordinating floss but I chose to ignore her beyond brilliant idea. Well, 2.5 years later I finally took Meari's advice and voila, my version of the Alphabet Tree from Blue Ribbon Designs is finished.

Windows of Joy from Primrose Needleworks is next. This little cutey is on my Crazy January Challenge list. I made a little adjustment to the pattern and added white buttons vice stitching white snowflakes--the white floss was not showing up well on my fiddlers cloth. This will make a cute ornament for my tree. The pattern is from the December 2007 The Gift of Stitching on-line magazine.

Next is Holiday Spirit from Samplerbird Stitchery. What a joy to stitch, I will be making a few more of this one. I stitched a yellow vice red star and added a few beads.

Now for a little giveaway. I have six copies of The Cross Stitcher, dated April, June, October and December 2008, February and April 2009, and one copy of Just Cross Stitch dated February 2002 for some lucky person. If you are interested in the magazines (it is all or none) please leave a comment indicating you would like them with your e-mail if you do not have a blog. On March 28th random.org will pick a winner. Once I get the details I will happily send them to the winner. Remember to PIF or RAK -- it does a body good.

See ya!!

One Sketch, Three Challenges

2011-03-12T11:01:00.000-06:00

This week I decided to participate in a few card challenges. The first being OWH Stars and Stamps Wednesday Challenge "Going Dotty", Alphabet Challenge "S is for Stripes" and Color Dare CD99 challenge. I selected OWH Star and Stamps sketch #59 for the cards.

The OWH Stars and Stamp challenge required dots on the card. The dots could be embossed or dots on paper. The Color Dare challenge required the colors basic grey, marina mist and cherry cobbler be used. I decided to combine the two challenges, of course I had to use my favorite stamp set Stampin Up "For All You Do" and my dots are embossed using Cricut Swiss Dots Embossing Folder.

The Alphabet Challenge required stripes. Easy enough. I used the same sketch, same image, marina mist and cherry cobbler card stock, and some coordinating striped paper from Paper Studio. Voila!!

Nice way to spend a Saturday morning, being crafty and creative.

Please say a prayer for all the wonderful people of Japan. The damage and destruction just breaks my heart. I lived in Japan for 8 years so it is a place very dear to me and my family. My hubby and I got married in Tokyo 21 years ago.

See ya!!

Another Coffee House Mystery.....

2011-03-10T08:43:00.000-06:00

bites the dust (at least in my house) and ends up on PaperBackSwap for the next eager reader. As usual Cleo Coyle does not disappoint. I thoroughly enjoyed the adventure as the main character, Clare Cosi, goes digging for trouble. Trouble that eventually leads her into the arms of the man she is meant to be with, NYPD Detective Mike Quinn. They are not totally together yet it will happen I can feel it in my bones. Perhaps they will finally get it together in the next book--at least that is my wish. LOL

I recently discovered that the Cleo Coyle writing team have a Haunted Book Store Mystery Series under the pen name Alice Kimberly. Fortunately the first two books were avaliable on PBS. How exciting!!!

See ya!!

The Blog Hop Winner Is...........

2011-03-07T12:59:00.000-06:00

Sue B!! Sue has won Stampin UpPerfect Punches stamp set plus a few other lovely goodies from me for visiting my blog and leaving a comment. The bloghop was fantastic. I have close to 200 visitors and 65 comments. WooHoo!! I even picked
up a few more followers. The best part for me was visiting all the other blogs and seeing great cards. It got my creative juices flowing.

See ya!!

CJ

TUSAL March New Moon

2011-03-06T11:00:00.014-06:00

If you are here for the OWH Bloghop please scroll down.

Another month has passed and I am a few days late with my New Moon post. February was a great stitching month for me and I still ahve two finishes to post once the OWH Bloghop is finished. March looks like it will be another great month for stitching in my house. Have a great month.

Notice the white floss at the top of the jar, I am working on Bent Creek "Snow" and Mr Frog visited a few times. Keeping my fingers crossed that he doesn't return.

See ya!!

CJ

OWH Bloghop

2011-03-05T09:00:00.158-06:00

Welcome to the OWH Bloghop!! If you came from Christine's Blog you you you are in thr right place. If this is your first stop on the hop you will want to go to the beginning at OWH so you don't miss a thing. This is my first ever bloghop and I am so excited to have you stop by today. Here is the card I made to share with you. I used the "For All You Do" stamp set from Stampin Up for this card. I love this stamp set and I have used it quite often. It is one set I will have for a very long time. All the products for this card are from Stampin Up. It is a very simple card and that is how I like to make them clean and simple.

I was so happy when I found OWH and I am so proud to support them. Being retired military it fills my heart with joy to see all the love that is being sent to our troops. No matter where they are stationed they deserve our respect and gratitude for the sacrifices they make to keep our country safe.

One of my favorite spots to visit is the OWH Flikr page. I love looking at the photos of the troops with their cards. The photos make me laugh and cry at the same time. I laugh because the pictures are heartwarming and joyful, I cry because I want them all to come home safe and sound.

If you would like a chance for a little blog candy and some love just leave a comment with your e-mail. Below is the candy, the love will be a surprise. On Monday I will have random.org pick a winner.

If you are making Easter cards for the troops the deadline is March 18th and the deadline for Mother's Day cards is March 31st.

I am so happy you stopped by. Now it is time to visit Shannon's blog, she is a very talented card maker.

See ya!!

CJ

Christmas Cards

2011-02-28T10:59:00.000-06:00

This month my BFF, Nora, and I started a Handmade Christmas card group on Swap-Bot. Our goal is to create one new card each month and swap with one partner. This months theme was open, make whatever as long as it is a Christmas card.

Keeping to my simple theme I created a basic card with one image. I ended up making 5 cards and entered the Christmas Cards All Year Long (CCAYL) February Challenge. Their challenge for February was to have pink or red in your card with some dimension. Easy enough my card base is Cherry Cobbler, DSP has pink stripes, and I mounted the sentiment with dimensionals.

This is the card I received from my swap partner, Roxie. Isn't it cute. I love the non-traditional colors. Can't wait to share it at Christmas time.

Thanks for stopping by.

See ya!!

CJ

Operation Write Home Cards

2011-02-26T08:35:00.002-06:00

Last week I mailed off 18 cards to OWH for their Spring Thaw Challenge. I came up with three layouts that I found on different blogs and made several of each design. I sent 6 of each to OWH and the rest will be used for swaps. I entered this first card in the OWH Mid-Week Challenge for an "Anything Goes" type card.

Sending Warm Fuzzies -- SU Paper/Image, Hero Arts Sentiment

Happy Mothers Day - SU DSP/Layers/Stamps, GinaKCard Base

Happy Birthday - SU Card base/stamp/ribbon, Basic Grey DSP

I prefer to keep my cards simple, I am not into the multiple layers, lots of bling type cards--not my style. I make cards to relax, so keeping it simple is the best for me. Plus I am just not that creative--too much brain power required. In addition, the shippers at OWH prefer cards that are not too bulky and blingy for the troops, that way they can get more cards into a box.

Next week I am participating in my first ever OWH Blog Hop. I have already made my card for the hop and I have some card making stash selected to giveaway. More to come.

Have a great Saturday!

See ya!!

CJ

One more Crazy January Finish!!

2011-02-25T06:42:00.001-06:00

Project #4, the Quaker Armadillo from Aury is all stitched up. This is for my son, who is fascinated with the armadillos that tear up our yard looking for grub worms. Our neighbor has manged to trap a few over the years--nasty looking creatures. The kids like to look at it in the trap--yuk. They really can do some damage to a yard. Since we are in Texas dead armadillos are a common sight along the roadside, it is not very often you get to see one alive. The first time I went to the Weavers Weekend in Oklahoma an armadillo crossed my path as I was walking back to the lodge. That was my first ever "live in the wild" armadillo sighting.

Another happy dance for me!!

See ya!! Thanks to all of you who stop by, I really appreciate your comments.

CJ

Crazy January Challenge 2011 Project #3 Finished!!

2011-02-21T08:23:00.000-06:00

Oh my, it is time for a happy dance!!! I have finished my 5th project for 2011 and 3rd project on my Crazy January Challenge list. I have finished the Name Flake for my son, Sam. When we brought him home from China we called him Sammy for the longest time, well at least until he got into Pre-K and decided he like being call Sam versus Sammy. He is the sweetest and smartest little boy in the world and we are so blessed to have him in our family.

I stitched this up on 18ct hand dyed aida from Enchanted Fabrics--who is out of business, boohoo. I used DMC 517 for his name and DMC 311 for the snow flakes. The pattern calls for the larger snow flakes to be covered with beads, but that was not working out well with the 18ct so I decided to just put beads in the center. Now I am working on the Quaker Armadillo.

Happy President's Day!!

See ya!!

CJ

Crazy January Challenge 2011 Project #2 Finished!!

2011-02-17T11:37:00.000-06:00

The stitching is complete on project #2 from the Crazy January Challenge. Later I plan to finish it into a block for display in my daughters room. This is my fourth (count them 1, 2, 3, and 4) stitching finish for 2011, don't think I finished that many in 2010 and my second finish of the Crazy January Challenge. I am diligently working on my sons name ornament, plan to start the beading tonight as I watch American Idol.

See ya!!

CJ

Square Card Challenge

2011-02-17T11:21:00.001-06:00

Yesterday I made several square cards in purple, green, red, orange and pink for Swap-Bot swaps and Operation Write Home Challenges. Today as I was perusing my blog roll I found a a square card challenge listed on Feline Playful's blog. So I thought why not join in the fun. Here goes....

Card Info:

Design - Cased from Angie at Chic'n Scratch

Materials - paper, punches, ink, image from Stampin Up!

Sentiment - Hero Arts

Challenge - Creative Craft World

See ya!!

Another Coffee House Mystery Finished.

2011-02-16T16:36:00.000-06:00

Last week I finished "Murder Most Frothy" the fourth book in Cleo Coyle's Coffee House Mystery series and started on "Decaffeinated Corpse"-- don't you love these titles. I believe I am addicted to these cozy mysteries. If you want to learn more about Cleo Coyle, her mysteries and pick up a few great coffee recipes check out her website. My copy of "Murder Most Frothy" has been posted on PBS for the next caffeine addicted reader.

See ya!!

CJ

Alphabet Kitties are Finished

2011-02-03T14:40:00.002-06:00

I stitched up P and Q for the Quilts for Older Children and Adults Yahoo Group. This is not a pattern I would choose for myself so it was fun to do something a little different. These squares will be made into a quilt along with the rest of the alphabet and sold to raise money for an animal shelter. Having rescued two dogs this is a cause close to my heart and I was happy to help.

Alphabet Kitty "Q" was my first entry in the Crazy January Stitching Challenge.

Enjoy,

TUSAL Feb New Moon

2011-02-02T18:50:00.000-06:00

Happy Chinese New Year!! Usually we would take the kids out for a Chinese dinner this evening, but this nasty winter storm has us staying indoors and off the streets. My kids have missed two days of schools so far this week and we just got that call that school will be closed, again, tomorrow. We had snow late Monday night and early Tuesday, but it is the layer of ice that came down at the beginning of the storm and the extreme cold temperatures that are keeping us in. Even the Tuesday paper didn't get delivered until this afternoon. BRRRRRRR!!! That is a record for us in North Texas we had our two weeks of winter in mid-January, but I guess this year we will have 3 weeks of winter--lol. The temps are predicted to be around 60 on Super Bowl Sunday.

I digress, enough about the weather. Here is my February New Moon TUSAL input. According to my calendar the new moon is today so here is my little jar of bits and it has grown tremendously since the January New Moon. I have been busy stitching two

squares for charity that I will post pictures of later. If I keep this up I may have to get a bigger container. Enjoy, stay warm and keep stitching.

See ya!!

Let me tell you about the book I just read.

2011-01-17T07:19:00.000-06:00

I just finished the third book in Cleo Coyle's Coffee House Mystery series, Latte Trouble". If you love a cozy mystery and enjoy a good cup of coffee you will want to check out this series. The main characters have been consistent throughout each book which makes me want to read more to see how they develop and evolve. At the end of each book are coffee related recipes that just seem yummy. Cleo Coyle also has a webpage dedicated to the series and coffee. You can even sign up to win free coffee.

Last night I started Murder Most Frothy -- the forth book in the series, so far so good. I have book 5, 6, 7 & 8 on my Paperback Swap Wish (PBS) List -- why buy new when you can get a used book for free. I just posted this book on PBS if you are interested check it out.

Have a great MLK Day.

See ya!!

CJ

Crazy January Challenge 2011 - Project #15

2011-01-15T16:08:00.000-06:00

Can you hear me breath a sigh of relief? I made it to 15 January with my 15th project started on time. I am very proud that I completed this challenge, now the real challenge begins, to get these 15 projects completed plus my 6+ UFOs done in a timely manner. Thankfully soccer season starts soon and I always stitch while I wait for my kiddo at practice. It's going to be a good year for stitching at my house.

This is Windows of Joy by Primrose Needleworks. The pattern was published in the December 2007 issue of The Gift of Stitching. I am stitching it on a scrap of oatmeal 14 ct aida with DMC threads.

See ya!!

CJ

Crazy January Challenge 2011 - Project #14

2011-01-15T16:00:00.000-06:00

This is Snow from Bent Creek. This pattern has been in my stash for a long, long time. Looking at it makes me feel the chill of winter--just like today, although no snow for us in North Texas. I am stitching this on pale blue 14ct aida with a mix of DMC and specialty threads.

See ya!!

Crazy January Challenge 2011 - Project #13

2011-01-14T06:47:00.000-06:00

I have admired this pattern for many, many months and I kept going back and forth about including it in this challenge since I had so many great patterns in my stash. But everytime I visit the Freebie Gallery Blog I see this pattern and I just love it. So here it is on 16ct aida using Cranberry thread from The Gentle Art. Not sure how I am going to personalize it at this point--at least it is started.

See ya!!

Crazy January Challenge 2011 - Project #12

2011-01-14T06:32:00.001-06:00

Plum Berry Sampler is my choice for project #12 -- can't believe I have made it this far. I am stitching it on even weave with DMC floss. The best thing about this challenge is I told myself I will only use what is in my stash -- no new purchases, no floss, no fabric, no patterns. If I don't have the right color, I pull out my DMC color chart to find a suitable sub.

See ya!!

Crazy January Challenge 2011 - Project #10 & 11

2011-01-12T18:24:00.001-06:00

Here are projects 10 and 11. They are the same as project #9, name tree ornaments for my two daughters. I just love these name trees and M Designs does a great job cretaing them. I think I will have to get one for my brand new nephew.

See ya!!

CJ

First Finish of 2011

2011-01-10T14:54:00.000-06:00

WooHoo!!! I have finished a stitching project for 2011 and it is still January--boy, I am on a roll. This is a Brush Stroke Butterfly stitched in shades of purple and blue on 14ct white aida for the Quilts for Older Children and Adults Yahoo Group. Tomorrow this will be sent off to Pennsylvania to be included in a quilt. Now I just need to finish my two kitties. This is the first time I have scanned stitching into the PC vice take a photo. Not sure if I like the scan. Well at least I can put this in the finish column.

See ya!!

Cj

Crazy January Challenge 2011 - Project #9

2011-01-09T22:52:00.000-06:00

Here it is!! Project #9. This is a name ornament for my son. I am stitching it on 16ct white aida with Carrie's Creation Thread called Holly Days. This will also require lots of beads when the stitching is finished, hum--not sure what color to use at this point.

See ya!!

CJ

Crazy January Challenge 2011 - Project #8

2011-01-08T08:00:00.001-06:00

Number 8 was not originally on my list but as I viewed other blogs participating in this challenge I found it difficult to resist this free pattern. I really have an affinity to stitching word trees so I decided to go ahead and stitch up Holiday Spirit by Robin Shappell. It is a lovely little tree that I am stitching in green and red on oatmeal aida.

Enjoy!!

CJ

Crazy January Challenge 2011 - Project #7

2011-01-07T22:27:00.001-06:00

I have made it to project #7, I 've reached the top of the hill. This is another VeeandCo Name Flake for my oldest daughter. I am stitching on 28ct Laguna with Purple Pansy floss from Carrie's Creation Threads. Hurray me!!!

Enjoy!!

See ya!!

CJ

Crazy January Challenge 2011 - Project #6

2011-01-06T21:25:00.001-06:00

For my 6th project I am making a Name Flake from VeeandCo for my son. The fabric is 18ct hand dyed aida from Enchanted Fabrics, I can't remember the name. The floss is DMC 517. The snow flakes will be done with silver beads. These are so easy and quick to stitch--you will get to see another tomorrow.

Enjoy!!

I really appreciate all your comments. Thanks for stopping by.

See ya!!

CJ

Crazy January Challenge 2011 - Project #5

2011-01-06T21:17:00.000-06:00

Here is project number 5 for this Crazy January Challenge. It is the Winter Soapbox from Bent Creek. I just love this pattern and I am so happy I found it in my stash. I managed to get his hat stitched up.

Enjoy!!

See ya!!

TUSAL Jan New Moon

2011-01-06T04:44:00.000-06:00

Here is my entry for the TUSAL. It is not very full, I have only bee collecting since around Christmas time. My little jar is plastic, I decided on plastic with a lid because I keep it in my stitching bag and it gets moved allot and I have three kids, two dogs and a husbands--I think you know what I am getting at. It is just safer this way. In it's former life it was a Blossom and Buttons Jar from Making Memories in the shade of Mocha--how exciting. I took the picture early this morning in my kitchen as I was drinking my tea. The jar still has a label on it that I plan to cover with a stylish new ORT label--be looking for that next new moon.

Not only is this a TUSAL, but I have a house full of Totally Useless Calenders -- not one of them has the phases of the Moon on them. How crazy is that? Guess I need to go calender shopping today.

See ya!!

CJ

Crazy January Challenge 2011 - Project #4

2011-01-04T13:04:00.000-06:00

This is an Armadillo from Aury. I have had this pattern for several years and I am finally getting around to stitching it up. It will be for my son, he has a fascination with animals. This is being stitched on 14 count hand dyed fabric from Enchanted Fabrics and Cafe Ole floss from Carrie's Creation Threads.

Enjoy.

See ya!!

CJ

Crazy January Challenge 2011 - Project #3

2011-01-04T10:19:00.002-06:00

I am a day late posting my third project. IT is "The Red Noel Ornament" by Maryse DuPont of Les Grilles de Maryse. It is in the November 2008 edition of The Gift of Stitching. It was not on my original stitching list but I thought if I am going to get any of these projects done they need to be fairly small since I do have a of UFOs and some charity stitching to do as well. I decided to turn this around a bit instead of stitching red on white I am stitching cream colored floss (DMC 543) onto hand dyed 16 count aida, called Blood Moon from Enchanted Fabrics.

Enjoy.

See ya!!

CJ

Crazy January Challenge 2011 - Project #2

2011-01-02T21:15:00.001-06:00

Here is my second project a Name Flake from VeeandCo. I plan to finish this into some type of block. I am stitching this on pink 32 count even weave using thread from Carries Creation Threads called Berry Swirl. I will add beads, but not sure what color, perhaps a dark pink.

Unfortunately, Blogger is being a pain and I cannot upload my picture. I will have to give it a try later.

See ya!!

FYI - We had mountain lion sightings in our neighborhood over the last week. I guess I need to keep the dogs in--scary!!

Crazy January Challenge 2011 - Project #1

2011-01-01T15:42:00.001-06:00

I joined Minna's Crazy January Challenge to start 15 new projects the first 15 days of January. My projects are listed in the sidebar and here is a picture of my first project. I am stitching an Alphabet Kitty letter Q to be made into a quilt that will be raffled to support the St Francis Animal Rescue Center in Rock Hill, SC. It is stitched with DMC on 14ct white aida. This is just one of the many charity projects hosted by the Yahoo Group, Quilts for Older Children and Adults.

Happy 2011!!

See ya!!

Happy New Year!!!

2010-12-31T07:43:00.000-06:00

Hi All -

The last two weeks, well actually all of December, has been very busy and exciting for my family. The busy part was finishing the holiday shopping, putting together teacher gifts, Christmas card mailing, holiday baking, school parties and worrying that I was not forgetting anyone. If I forgot you I am sorry but you know I wish you well.

This year we did something a little different during the Christmas break. I took my kids to Amarillo (without hubby) to visit his mom (the best MIL in the world). We had a great visit with Granny, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and other extended family. The only bummer was we did not get to see our oldest niece/cousin and her new baby. Our schedules just did not work our for us to visit. I am sure we will get to see him real soon.

After 5 days I brought the kiddos home to have Christmas with dad/hubby. Then to change things up a bit this year we took the kiddos on a mini vacation to San Antonio. We had a great time, stayed in the fabulous Drury Inn Plaza on the River Walk. We went to the Alamo, Sea World, cruised the River Walk on foot and by boat and my older kids went with dad to the Alamo Bowl. The city is beautiful, clean and we had the best time. This trip gave hubby a chance to try out his new camera from Santa--he just loves his new Canon T2I Rebel. I have to mention on the way home we stopped at the Hard 8 Bar-B-Que Pit in Stephenville, TX. That was some yummy bar-b-que, so yummy we bought extra to bring home to have on New Years day.

Kids looking into Dolphin pool a Sea World.

View of San Antonio River Walk from tour boat.

View of San Fernando Cathedral from our hotel balcony.

Oklahoma Cowboys vs. Arizona Wildcats in the Alamo Bowl

Hoping that you had a blessed Christmas and wishing you all the best for 2011.

See ya!!

CJ and family

Ornament Swap and Giveaway

2010-12-08T11:49:00.001-06:00

Recently I participated in a Swap-Bot ornament swap, yesterday I received the cutest stitched ornament from Elizabeth in Sweden (no blog) . It is the smallest ornament on my tree about 1.5 inches square. I am really happy to have it.

How about a Christmas Giveaway!! Check out Dixie Samplar Designs for a little Christmas Cheer. You must leave her a comment by 24 midnight CST to qualify.

Happy Holidays!!

See ya!

Stitched Ornaments

2010-12-06T09:20:00.001-06:00

Last week I mailed off two stitched ornament swaps that I had stitched up earlier in the year. Both are fringed and backed with felt, I used Heat-n-Bond to fuse the aida, felt and ribbon together in a nice sandwich.

Noel Freebie from Gazette 94

Christmas Tree in Blue by Cathie Richardson
of Country Garden Stitchery found in the
November 2008 The Gift of Stitching

Speaking of stitching after perusing a few blogs last week I came across a stitching challenge on Jennifer's blog. It is the Crazy January Challenge 2011 and it involves starting 15 new projects in the first 15 days of January--crazy is right. So, of course, had to jump right in. It's not like I don't have enough to do with a huband, three kids, and two dogs. You can find more info about the challenge on Minna's blog so far over 130 have joined. I figure this is a great way for me to get some of those small projects I have in my stash finished. So here goes, wish me luck.

Happy Holidays!!

See ya!!

CJ

Basket Weaving Weekend

2010-11-25T07:42:00.001-06:00

Hello Bloggin Friends --

This year I made my second trip, along with my friend, neighbor and weaving mentor Sue and fellow weaving buddy Becky, to the Basket weaver Guild of Oklahoma Weavers Weekend in Hinton, OK. I decided to take it easy and only weave four baskets this year instead of the seven I did last year. Since we arrived late (long story) I opted to skip my first class to shower, nap and unpack the van. Glad I did cause I needed a little rest since driving rattles my nerves. We stayed at a Methodist Church Camp in a small canyon outside Hinton, Oklahoma and the weather was absolutely wonderful for early November. Here are some photos of what I weaved that weekend.

This basket is called and Irish Knitting Basket. It is a version of a melon basket, called that because of its shape. I loved making this basket and the instructor was fabulous. I gave this basket to my son and daughters first grade teacher. She has had all three of my kiddos in class and she likes purple. I will be making more of this type basket it is one of my favorite styles.

This is an old wooden salad bowl that has a decorative woven top added. A great way to reuse an old bowl--eco friendly weaving. This project actually gave me the fits while I was weaving it. The weave is called a Gretchen weave and my weavers kept breaking at one point I said "enough, I have had it"!!. Fortunately, I had the kindest, most patient instructor that did not give up on me. I will be making more of this one it makes a great candy dish.

Here is the pincushion basket I made. This was so easy and fun to weave. Wouldn't this make a great gift for some of my stitching friends? Definitely more to come of this little gem.

We had such a fun time this year. Sue has invited two of the instructors to come to Wichita Falls to teach classes for our little group. One of the instuctors is offering a Bi-Monthly Basket Club, if you sign up by 1 January shipping is free. She had the club baskets on display and they were beautiful. Each of them are decorated with small beads you can see them on her Website, of course I signed up and so did Sue.

Happy Thanksgiving!! I will be at the Cowboys game today--woohoo!!

See ya!

CJ

Fall Easel Cards

2010-10-21T11:55:00.000-05:00

Recently a swap came up on Swap-Bot to create easel cards and swap them. Never having made one I thought I would give it a try. After doing some research and looking at some completed cards I came up with these two cards and I was very happy to swap them. I decided to use Fall colors since I love them and it is that time of year. Check them out.

Yesterday I got an e-mail from my swap partner thanking me for the lovely card and informing me that it was a Christmas themed swap and I needed to send four cards. Guess what I will be doing later today?

Anyway, things happen we fix it and carry on.

See ya!!

Dragon Dreams Finish

2010-10-21T06:58:00.000-05:00

I recently finished Dragon of Hope 2005 from Dragon Dreams, Inc. I stitched this up on hand dyed aida from Enchanted Fabrics (now out of business) using DMC threads and put it in a rustic frame from Hobby Lobby. I gave it to my childrens teacher for her birthday. She teaches a 1st/2nd grade combo class and all my kids have been in her room. This year she has my son and youngest daughter.

See ya!!

Think Pink Raffle

2010-10-14T11:17:00.000-05:00

My blogging friend, Nancy is having a raffle on her blog to help fight breast cancer. Please drop by and give a little if you can the raffle ends tomorrow.
http://basketmasterweavings.blogspot.com/

See ya!!

CJ

Meari Asked,

2010-10-07T10:36:00.000-05:00

"How Do You Keep Your Floss Organized?"

When I first started stitching I kept the floss with the pattern in a bag because I started with all inclusive kits. Once I discovered I could by floss, fabric and stitch patterns out of magazines everything changed. So for the last 20+ years I have kept my DMC in floss boxes on bobbins that I wind by hand. The boxes are labeled with the inclusive numbers on the top and side of the box. In a gallon zip top bag I keep any DMC that is waiting to be put on a bobbin or used in a swap. In the Twinnings tin I keep th small amount of WDW and Gentle Arts threads that I have collected.

I have several skeins of Carries Threads which I absolutely adore (her prices are always great) that I keep in a gallon size zip top bag. In an other sandwich size bag I put any other floss that I have acquired via exchanges or swaps.

Then all this is stored on a shelf in an antique sideboard buffet we bought while we were stationed in the UK. When I am working in a project the floss is kept on a floss tag with the fabric and pattern in some type of plastic container. All my on going projects are stored in two tote bags.

That is how I do it.

See ya!!