Aimetu's Stitching

RRs away :)

2012-01-15T22:38:00.000Z

My two Round Robins are ready to send :) I am in the Needlecraft Haven 2012 Round Robin and 2012 Mini Round Robin.

For the 2012 Round Robin I have chose the 'Angels blessings' design from Cross Stitch Gold. I have changed the bottom border slightly and have stitched partof the border all round for everyone to use as markers.

2012 Round Robin with Julie, Tina, Dusty, Lynn and Jaclyn

My 2012 Mini Round Robin is a cyberstitches freebie 'Life is uncertain ... eat dessert first!'

2012 Mini Round Robin with Dusty and Jaclyn

We had a lovely meal at MIL's today and tonight have enjoyed Busy Bee Candles Lavender Pillow melting in my burner and a Nespresso Roma in my new coffee glass.

Now I can start stitching on some baby gifts :) Thank you for popping by .

Rome

2012-01-02T20:41:00.000Z

We've had a fabulous time - many memories to treasure and a few photos too :) here are my favourite

We have had an amazing few days away :)

On the home front - my Dad has been in hospital again, since Christmas Evening but is better so hopefully will be home tomorrow.

Ruby had a bump in the garden on Christmas Night (whilst we were at hosp with Dad) and had to see the emergency vet Boxing Day - she has hurt her back leg/hip. She rested at the kennels but is still not walking on it and seems in pain getting up and down so it's the vets again tomorrow :(

Wishing everyone a very happy 2012 x x x

Happy New Year

2011-12-27T22:22:00.001Z

I'm a little early but we go away tomorrow so Happy New Year to everyone x x x

Our Christmas has been quite eventful - Christmas Day my Dad didn't look well, he was struggling with his breathing.We ended up taking him to Accident and Emergency and they have kept him in. He is breathing much much better but is on oxygen. He willbe in until we get back from our trip to Rome - he insists we still go.

When we got back from form the hospital Ruby had tumbled in the garden and hurt her back leg. We had to carry her to bed and saw the emergency vet on Boxing Day. She has pulled her leg and it's probably bruised too. The vet gave her some painkillers and we have to give her more each breakfast. She is staying mainly on her bed but can hop about. This afternoon I took her for a short walk. On the way back she just sat in our road and Urszula and her dog Eddie came out to help encourage her to get up and hop home. She has been out again and seems more confident each tme. The kennels say they are ok to have her still and will give her the painkillers.

So we are still going to Rome tomorrow, although I am a little nervous about everything.

Here are my lovely pressies from my stitchy friends - thanks everyone :)

From Angie

From Karan

From Julie

From Christine

From Brenda

I sat and made all the cards for the Needlecraft Haven Birthday Exchange today- here they are - but who is getting which one LOL

Cards for NH

These are the gifts I stitched for Julie and her grand-daughter Isabelle.

This is the star I stitched for Karan

Here's hoping 2012 is a good one for everyone.

*** HAPPY NEW YEAR ***

Merry Christmas

2011-12-23T20:42:00.000Z

It was Nick's 50th last Wednesday and I surprised him with tickets for a holiday in Rome - we go next Weds until new Year's Day which means New Year's Eve in Rome. I have kept the secret since June - it's been very difficult at times LOL and now we're both very excited.

We had a great free meal at Cafe Rouge - thanks to my winning their competition. 8 of us had a fabulous time at Leamington Spa - we'd definitely go back again.

Stitching wise I have planned and started my 2012 RR with Needlecraft Haven - it's a chart from Cross Stitch Gold and I'll put up a picture of it when I can but this is my work so far.

RR started 22/12/2011

Needlecraft Haven will be 1 on 31st December, I can't believe it's been a year, it is such a lively place thanks to all the members chat, pictures and our fun and games.

and a fabulous New Year

Christmas is a coming

2011-12-18T10:10:00.000Z

The festive season is approaching fast and we have ana dditionalexciting time because DH is 50 on Wednesday. Today we're having a Family Buffet at The Abbey where DS works. I have been extremely lucky an dhave awona meal for 10 at Cafe Rouge - they have managed to get us booked in for Dh's actual birthday in Leamington Spa - fab fab times :)

Needlecraft Haven is a hive of activity, both Christmasy and with new RR's and exchanges being planned for 2012. I'm so grateful to me stitchy friends for making it such a wonderful place to visit - Julie, Karan, Christine, Ursh, Tina, Hazel, Angi, Barb, Barbara, Lindsay, Jaclyn, Dusty, Chris, Elaine, Kate, Sheila, Nicola, Sally, Kell and over 100 more members who pop by - thank you.

These are the ornaments I made for my friends at school

Our trees are up - this is the Friendship Tree that has ornaments, stitched and non-stitched given by friends from all over the world.

I hope everyone is ready for the festive season - enjoy your time with friends and family x x x

Photos from France

2011-11-29T09:53:00.000Z

I have managed to get my pictures up by using my laptop at school - sshhhh

Cite de |||Europe main centre

Close up

The train actually goes around
the shopping centre

Present display

It did look very festive - I loved the present effect

Not quite a month

2011-11-28T20:06:00.000Z

I am very bad at blogging just lately - sorry

Dad is safely at home, enjoying a quiet but happy life.

School is busy but fun. I'm stitching lots of gifts for Christmas, just hope they get done in time :)

Nick and I had a weekend in Calais to do a bit of wine shopping. We bought over 100 bottles back and had two lovely meals out. We had a little adventure too with a puncture and a trip in the rescue truck - a downside of having 7 seats s no spare tyre :(

I took some photos of the Christmas decorations at Cite de Europebut can't work out how to lad them from my iPad lol

Thanks for reading my quick update, I'll be blogging again soon x x

TUSAL at last and lots of news

2011-10-30T20:09:00.000Z

At last I have time to blog - what a busy time.

Firstly here is my TUSAL for October - I had no chance to add a photo last month and I am late this month.

It's certainly fuller this year than last LOL

The main reason I have been absent is my Dad is in hospital again - he has been unwell on and off for the last year since being in hospital then. In brief he has problems with his kidneys. liver and heart so quite a bit for an 84 year old. He is quite happy in himself and we are hoping he will be home soon - he's been there 5 weeks now. He will need more care when he does get home but he is ok with that.

So my news - last Tuesday our son turned 21 !!!! how did that happen - it's been a bit tough for him the last few years but things are looking up. He has a good job in a local pub - full time and the owner seems to be giving him more responsibilities :) here's some photos from our meal out at Frankie and Benny's

Me, Mum, Michael & Amii

Michael and Amii

Kieran and Philippa

Our gorgeous son - Happy 21st Birthday Michael

We have been out and about quite a bit too - all these trips were planned before Dad went into hospital and to be honest it was nice to still go out.

30th Sept - Two nights in Bristol at the Tesco Wine Fair with our friends - we stayed at the Ramada Hotel and had a fab fab weekend :)

15th Oct - superb day - it was another Needlecraft Haven meet up - we had a lovely day and I'll be organising another one next spring.New members are always welcome - just apply for membership.

16th Oct - Trip to Wychwood Brewery for Kieran's birthday. We had a great time, lots of tasting for DH and Kieran but I was driving :( I did have a lovely goblet for home though :)

22nd Oct - DH and I went to London on the train to the Tesco Wine Fair - yes again lol because we had free tickets :) London Midland had a great offer on and we had a gorgeous breakfast at Cafe Rouge (my absolute fav restaurant)

24th Oct - we had a trip to Glamorgan University for Philly to have another look. We visited the town and spent the afternoon in Cardiff - great day :)

The rest of my half term has been spent with friends, having a pedicure and a new hair cut - back to school tomorrow (for a rest LOL)

And my stitching - I have been making some Christmans ornaments for gifts and have stitrched these so far - they do need finishing.

This was my lovely scarecrow exchange from Tina - minus the choccies because I've eaten them LOL

I made some cupcakes the other day and too Dad a proper afternoon tea - Whitards Tea, proper cups, cake stand and serviettes - he loved it :)

Finally I must mention my Twitter friends who have kept me sane with everything going on Brown Bag Crisps (delicious) Busy Bee Candles (heaven) Victoria Connelly (fabulous author) Joanne Harris (author and caring daughter like me) and Sue G (Alfie fan) - thanks everyone :)

So sorry for not being around to read everyone's blog - thank you for catching up with my news :)

Birthday thanks :) I'm a lucky girl

2011-09-11T15:39:00.002+01:00

I had a fantastic day yesterday and have many people to thank, especially my DH Nick and my great children Michael & Philippa :) :)

We went to London for the day, DH getting a great deal on the train. Tottenham Court Road was great to walk down, leading us straight to St Martin's Lane where we enjoyed a fab meal in Pizza Express.

In the afternoon we went to Noel Coward Theatre to see Million Dollar Quartet which was SUPERB. A true story based on when Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis met with Sun Records' founder Sam Philipps on 4 December 1956 in Memphis,

The show included Blue Suede Shoes, Fever, Memories Are Made Of This, Down By The Riverside, (There Will Be) Peace In The Valley, I Walk The Line, I Hear You Knocking, Hound Dog, Riders In The Sky, See You Later Alligator and Great Balls Off Fire which had us all tapping, clapping and singing along.

We couldn't stay long in London as DS has his second shift at a pub in town - he worked 8pm to 2am plus cleaning til 3am BUT they want him on a 17 hour a week basis - whoo hoo perfect pressie :)

I had some wonderful gifts including a Kindle from DH, DS and DD. DH also bought me a new watch, DS and GF a bottle of Bombay Saphire, DD 'The Good Cook' cook book so they definiately spoilt me. DD BF gave me a Les Mis mug with my name on, Mum and Keith a wine aeriator, Dad a handbag, MIL a bottle of Southern Comfort and Thornton's choccies.

I had so many cards and gifts from friends too. My gifts included cup cake accessories, mini crackers, Disney Tigger mug, stitching stash and more choccies :) Huge thanks to Julie who made me a covered tape measure and gave me a great worry notepad; Karan who sent a beautiful Heirloom Embroderies chart; Sheila for the gorgeous Kate's Kloths fabric and thread; Tina for a notebook to make, fabric and thread; and Christine for some lovely Carrie's Creations thread - all adding to my growing stash :)

Tape measure from Julie

Heirloom Embroideries from Karan

My lovely holiday stash - thank you

I had lovely messages on facebook and Twitter, with goodies being sent through cyber space- virtually champagne can be as good as the real thing, especially early in the morning :) We did enjoy a bottle of Cremant de Loire from Chateau du Petit Thouars - the vineyard we visited in France:)

Finally my thoughts and prayers go to all those affected by the horrific events that happened today 10 years ago:

God bless, God guide, God give you peace.

TUSAL, stitching and an amazing story

2011-08-29T17:25:00.002+01:00

It's TUSAL day and my jar is growing fast this year - I even saved my orts whilst in France and brought them home safe and sound. Here's my jar this time:

TUSAL 29th August

I have been doing a little more to Sampler au Bouquet SAL on Needlecraft Haven - not much but I am hoping for a few hours on it tonight.

Sampler au Bouquet

and so to my story;

Most people know life for me is at times a little tough; but I keep smiling and carry on :) This story is co-incidence really not a story, but it has surprised/pleased/amazed me, so I thought I'd share it :)

Les Miserables holds a very special place in my life; the music, the story, the characters and of course the superb actors who bring it all to life. Last year we were very lucky to see the 25th concert live from Leicester cinema and to see Les Mis on their 25th Anniversary tour. Like many fans I think Alfie Boe has captured Jean Valjean superbly and as a wedding anniversary treat my hubby took me to London for the weekend to see him, Matt Lucas and Hadley Fraser at Queen's Theatre.

Through Twitter I chat to the other cast members and some of the behind the scenes artists. I love finding out how things are going even though we're miles away. I stitched gifts for Alfie and Matt, bought flowers for Alexia (who plays Eponine) and before the show we popped round to the stage door to hand them in. To my knee quivering amazement Alfie was at the door so I gave him the gifts in person. He kindly passed on the flowers to Alexia who surprised me with a 'thank you' Tweet in the interval and I managed to say Hi at the Stage Door after the show.

This was the start of my Twitter experience; the cast were suddenly going made about Brown Bag Crisps which looked and sounded great. Unfortunately there are no suppliers near us so I couldn't try them for myself, but whilst on holiday in France (where I bought a copy of Les Miserables in french) Brown Bag Crisps tweeted me to say there was a new deli opening in Oakham, Rutland. I had to laugh as hubby and I had had a lovely weekend break there last September with me driving my new car (my first brand new one all for me). We fell in love with the area and have been back again. It is a special place for us and close enough to home for us to have a weekend away without lots of driving. You can imagine my surprise and smile when Brown Bag Crisps said it was Oakham.

So last Saturday hubby and I went on the train to Oakham - not in my car as we found out there was a beer fest on - hic hic. I emailed the new deli to say we were coming and to make sure they had some crisps. Leo (the manager) replied saying yes they had and sorry he wouldn't be there Saturday but hope we had a good day. It was his mum who was there and she guessed who we were. She thought it was a joke and couldn't believe we'd come by train for the crisps. Leo was actually in the States on hols - amazing. All because of Twitter and emails we were chatting away in the deli - purchasing crisps, cheese and olives. We enjoyed the beer fest and managed to get the train home safely :)

I have made many friends on Twitter; a brilliant welcoming vinyard in France being just one and I do follow many celebs including a few authors; Victoria Connelly and Nicola Cornick are two new authors to me (found through Twitter LOL) but I have been a fan of Joanne Harris for a number of years. Chocolat is my all time favourite book; and I've had many holidays in France, drinking red wine, nibbling chocolate whilst reading it again :) I found Joanne on Twitter through the Les Mis Twitters.

The end of my story happened this morning - Joanne Harris tweeted about needing a name for a cat in her latest book - she offered to 'follow' the person with the name she chose. I suggested Otter (the name of the Oakham deli) or Otto and she picked Otto. So now I have not only named a cat in a book but my favourite author is following me. Me who has a very ordinary life travelling 40 miles for a bag of crisps.

How can: liking Les Mis; following the cast; learning and wanting crisps; taking an hour's train ride to a deli; result in naming a cat in a famous author's latest novel :-> these things don't happen to me, I sort stuff out for everyone else - I'm still pinching myself hours later. Only remedy is to open a bottle of the lovely wine we bought from my Twitter friendly vineyard.

Phew what a long story - hope it's made you smile too. Here's a couple of orchid photos to finish my blog and a photo of my garden which is looking fab as DS, his GF and friend stripped and painted the deck and furniture whilst we were in France - great job :)

Philippa's orchid

My orchid

My garden

Thanks for popping by - off for that glass of vin now :)

Home from holidays - a new SAL

2011-08-24T20:57:00.000+01:00

We're home after a fabulous two weeks in France - I have been frantically washing and ironing before all the rain which is why I am a little slow in blogging. I have edited our photos and they are all online in our flickr album - France 2011

There are too many photos to choose a favourite or just a few to put up so it's easier for you to look when you want. We visited many places; chateaux, fortresses, churches and of course restaurants/bars

Whilst we were away I nearly finished my Needlecraft Haven Summer Holiday exchange - just a few yellow stitches to do (I didn't take the right colour with me). I'm hoping to finish it this week.

I did start my Sampler au Bouquet SAL and I've done quite a lot already. I'm really enjoying it and it's growing fast.

My right hand edge

My overall piece

Today I have started off a bottle/jar of damson vodka -I have no idea if it will work but I have layered damsons and sugar and then topped up with vodka. All the sugar sank to the bottom and I have to 'turn' it everyday- we'll see what happens but it should be ready in six months.

Damson vodka

Thanks for popping by, I hope you enjoyed the holiday album x x x

Bonjour from France

2011-08-12T19:21:00.000+01:00

Just a quick blog from the Loire Valley :) We're having a great time. Philly and BF Kieran enjoyed a couple of days with us before moving on to spend ten days withhis family on holiday onthe Gironde. We went to Angles sur l'Anglin and watched a firework display against the chateau walls -fabulous.

Philly and me

and if it works this is the link to the video on YouTube of the firework finale http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5y7HOsQmA5M

This is our house, which is called the Old Walnut Mill - the village is quite but sitting on the patio reading or stitching with a glass of wine is a perfct holiday

The Old Walnut Mill

I have nearly finished my summer exchange from Needlecraft Haven - and have started my Sampler au Bouquets

Summer Exchange

Sampler au Bouquets

We have visited a few old chateaus and ancient cite - and yesterday we visited the Vineyard du Petit Thouars - we were amazed when we drove up to this ...

de petit Thouars

Their wine was gorgeous so we had to bring some for home :)

Thanks for reading my very quick blog from a very warm, sunny and relaxing France x x x

Happy Dance

2011-08-03T07:12:00.000+01:00

I have finially finished my square on my JTHC Round Robin - with Hazel, Julie and Tina on Needlecraft Haven. It wasn't a lot of stitching but I ran out of DMC 869 and had to root through my stash where I thankfully had a spare. I need a few bits in town today and hopefully then I can make it up too.

JTHC RR - stitching completed

I have been working on my Summer Holiday Exchange - with NH- my partner sentme a gorgeous design which I am enjoying stitching. Here's my progress so far.

Summer Holiday Exchange

Last weekend I spotted this fab vase in TKMax - I did suggest to Dad we could fill it with red wine or a huge trifle - it did make him smile but he didn't say no LOL

New Vase

Well I'm packed - no trouble fitting it into my bag - not sure how DD and DH are doing. Just 2 more sleeps and we're off :) Thanks for sharing my news xx

TUSAL and photos

2011-07-30T09:15:00.001+01:00

This is a photo heavy post; my first photo is my TUSAL - I am amazed at how it's grown this year. A definite signthat Ruby is calming down as last year I hardly did any stitching because she was always getting into mischief :)

TUSAL - 30th July

I have nearly finished my square on the JTHC RR I did with Hazel, Julie and Tina on Needlecraft Haven - I have run out of 869 but think there is one in my stash. I'm off to town today to look for the cushion for it so I may have a real HD later.

I did have two HDs because two of my colleagues at school retired at the end of term.I stitched them each a little gift.

Stitched for my favourite English teacher

Stitched for a great guy who has
now retired to France

That's all my stitching news for now - we've just had a lovely few days at the caravan with Nick's mum nad her partner. We did a couple of walks, Precipice Walk and the Mawddach Trail. here's a few photos including the blueberry picking at high altitude LOL

Precipice Walk - looking north

Precipice Walk - looking towards
the coast

Me and MIL - watching our step

The View

Ruby helping with the Blueberry picking

The five of us on the Mawddach Trail - a flatter stroll

There are a couple of other photos in my album from our walk - Wales Summer 2011.

Finally here are Philly and my orchids. They flowered last year and we thought they'd died. I have fed them and watered them - just look now. Philly's is amazing, so full of flowers - mine has fewer flowers but the colour is gorgeous.

Philly's orchid

My orchid

Thanks for popping by - I hope you enjoyed my photo fest - I should really blog more often but there is never enough time - good job it's school holidays :)

Take care and enjoy the summer x x

Stitching news and my TUSAL

2011-07-03T09:40:00.001+01:00

I finally have some stitching news to share :) so not much chat, just pictures :)

My part of Julie's RR

It was Julie's first RR and I really enjoyed stitching on her piece. You can see the final piece on her blog.

I have finished off the stitching from my other RR with Dusty, Jaclyn and Chris. I have made the coasters for the caravan - I love them, thanks everyone. I am going to make a few more when I get a chance.

My coasters

Oneof my students asked if I'd stitch something for his Grandma. I adapted a LHN design and we've mounted on the front of a photo album for her - hope she liked it.

Jaye's Grandma's gift

I have started a gift for a colleague who is retiring at the end of this academic year - he has three weeks to go :) It's 'Good Wine Good Friends' by Bobbie G Designs. This is how far I have got so far.

wip 020711

And finally here's my TUSAL for this month - it's growing amazingly fast this year :)

TUSAL

Lots of stitching news :) hopefully July will be a stitchathon as I do have a few bits to do :) Thanks for popping by x x

Fabulous Time

2011-06-26T21:20:00.000+01:00

Oh it was sooooooooooooooo nice :) too much to say in detail so here's a brief view

Train to London + bottle of wine
Upgrade at hotel as special occassion
Views over Canary Wharf
Vinoplois Tour on Saturday
Meals at Strada and Cafe Rouge

LES MISERABLES was brilliant and I got to give Alfie the gifts in person - had superb seats - and saw most of the cast at the stage door after the show :)

I am still on cloud nine - I've added a few photos to my album if you want a look

Here'e my favourtie photo - I wonder why LOL

Stitching news will resume soon - promise x x x

Getting excited

2011-06-22T07:05:00.000+01:00

Ok can now start counting in public as I've been counting in my head for days (weeks really) .........it's 2 days until I go to London with DH for our wedding anniversary AND it's 93 hours until we see Alfie Boe, Matt Lucas, Hadley Fraser and the new cast in LES MISERABLES. And last night Iread the new orchestration has a recorder part which adds to the haunting sound - that's my instrument (dreaming of becoming a musician at Les Mis aaahhhhh)

Here are my Youtube clips (I haven't played properly for over 30 years LOL) Clip 1 Clip 2 - might just Tweet them and see if I get spotted LOL LOL LOL

I have stitched a gift for Alfie and Matt, and am hoping to make one each for the main cast over the next few weeks.

Coasters for Matt and Alfie

A couple of weeks ago we were at the caravan and took Ruby for a lovely walk across the fields to the Broadwalk. DH took some gorgeous photos;

View of Cader Idris

Ready to run!!

Our garden is looking good now the plants are in pots - I bought a new rose the other week. I have never seen one like it before, it's purple.

No other news for now but I'm sure I'll have lots to share after the weekend :) Thanks for visiting, take care x

Happy Dancing in many ways

2011-05-31T22:06:00.000+01:00

I have a few happy dances to blog today :) only one stitching but the others are just as important.

Firstly DH and I had a fabulous weekend in Wales, with DD and BF but without Ruby which made life very relaxed. Saturday was my first HD as DH and I hired bicycles and did a 10 mile ride - a huge thing for me :) It was along a flat trail on an old disused railway line - for those who read my blog it was along the Mawddach where we've been walking Ruby on our last Welsh trips. We managed about half way and back - it was hard going as the wind was against us on the way; so much easier on the way back. I think we'd do it again and maybe hire bike for a day next time.

Before we went to Wales we finished the garden (although the fences need painting). DH put down all the slate and I now have my pots in place. I'm so pleased with it - and it's somuch easier to maintain and keep Ruby's paws clean (no more digging)

The slate is now under the bench and on the far right with my pots.

All slated with my pots.

and my final HD is I managed to finish my Mum's birthday pressie on time (just). We had a lovely day out today for her birthday and a family meal at the pub. They are off to France tomorrow for a week so it's all a bit busy. Here's the Q by Prairie Schooler finished and framed.

Q - Prairie Schooler

Tomorrow is 1st June so it's TUSAL time again - my jar is certainly filling up this year and we're only five months in. Saying that I am amazed that Needlecraft Haven is 5 months old - where did that go :)

TUSAL 1st June

Have a great June, it's the start of summer :0 thanks for sharing my HDs x x

Q, Cake Bake and Hardanger

2011-05-21T07:53:00.001+01:00

I have been workingon Mum's Q and I think it will be finished on time, although I'm running out of 3799 and will have to pop to town Monday whichmeans paying 85p !!!!!!!! for a skein. I might just place an order on Sew and So for a few more bits instead but then I'd spend more than 85p LOL

Q - Praire Schooler

Yesterday was the MS Society national cake bake and I made a few goodies for staff at school. It was 50p a cake and I raised £65. Here's a list of goodies I took in:

Sponge Cake

Lemon Drizzle Cake

Tea Loaf

Rocky Road

Browies

Mince Pies

Gingerbread People

Rasin Cookies

Cornish Fairings

Marmite Bread

I also had these cakes donated by colleagues:

Carrot Cake

Flapjake

Apple Cake

Last year the event raised £250,000 nationally and hopefully our £65 will help to reach this again. Thanks to everyone who helped; I take no responsibility for decreased funds or increased waistlines :)

Today I am demonstrating hardanger at Higham Church at their craft day. This is to help raise funds for their toilet block (they have to use the pub at the moment LOL) I am selling my bookmarks which are on my charity blog and giving the profits to their funds. My bookmarks are on sale at Aimetu's Stitchery and any profit goes to MS SOciety and St Cadfan's Church - if youare interested inone please emailme aimetu.clare@hotmail.com There is also a cross stitch bookmark for sale.

Needlecraft Haven is growing strong. April's sweetie competition was won by Barbara. I decided to pick three winners for the posting competition and the winners were Sally, Ann and Angi. Well done ladies - here are Barbara's and Sally's prizes (these are Babara's and Sally's pictures, I don't have any pictures of the others)

Barbara's Prize

Sally's Prize

I had better go and get ready for my Hardanger Day - thanks for popping by x x

Fabulous Weekend and TUSAL

2011-05-02T20:07:00.006+01:00

What an amazing time DH and I had at the caravan - we went up Thursday night so we could watch the wedding all day Friday.Andwhat a wedding it was :) everyone looked fabulous, Catherine was stuinning as was Philippa and I love seeing all the men in uniform.

Special moments for me were:
William and Harry going to church in a car like Catherine
William and Harry returning the salute and showing respect at the Cenotaph
Catherine's dress
Philippa's dress and how she looked after all those little ones
Prince Charles giving the Queen a peek on the cheek, and Philip doing likewise to Camila
William and Catherine having 'moments' together during service
William's salutes and Catherine's bowed head at cenotaph and accepting salutes
'Oh Wow' from Catherine when she walked on the balcony
The Kiss
The Car

I hope they enjoyed the day as much as DH and I did - we toasted them with a bottle of our favourite champagne as the walked out of the Abbey, and we enjoyed BBQ steak while they had their banquet LOL
A wonderful day, thank you Wills and Kate :)

I have done quite a lot of stitching over the weekend on Mum's Q (Prairie Schooler) - it's looking good

Q - Prairie Schooler

It's about time for TUSAL too so here is my jar - I was very good and brought all my orts back from Wales

TUSAL May

Just before we went we used our Tesco vouchers in their exchange promotion and paid just £10 for this gorgeous Bisto set for the garden

Bristro set

We had lovely weather inWales - but windy - I caught a lovely sunrise (looking behind the caravan) and a great sunset from the beach (which is only four caravan in front of us)

Sunrise

Sunset

So all in all a fab weekend, thanks for reading my blog, hugs to all x x x

Gardening and a HD

2011-04-26T16:52:00.000+01:00

We've been working on it for a couple of days and although it doesn't seem like we've done much I'm really pleased with how it's coming along. There wasn't anything wrong before but I was fed up with Ruby digging and walking over the flower beds so they are coming up and being replaced with slate and plants in pots. The red stone that was under the pergola is being mixed with the main gravel and also replaced with slate. It took ages to get this out and clean it as it had lots of conifer clippings in from next doors huge hedge.

My plants are potted, just hope they survive.The beds are empty ready for lining and slate, DH has buried the pond cable and relaid the lower steps from the patio and I have painted all the pergola. We can't do any more until after the confiers our side have been trimmed which will not be until the weekend after the Royal Wedding; then we can clean all through including the patio and lay the liner and slate

I can only do a small bit each day which is why it takes so long - here's a few photos.

All the red gravel was under the pergola
and is now on the main part. I painted all the pergola too

One of the beds cleared by DH

DH's Pixie Clematis

I have been working on Hazel's RR all this week, and have just finished. I don't usually chose filled in cross stitch so it made a change to work on this. It's from Cross Stitch Card Shop and was a series of Winter Animal Cards. I chose the badger as DS was Ianthe Badger when he did 6 months at the Wildlife Trust.

Hazel's RR

It's back to school tomorrow but only Year 11 are in so it should be quiet. We're off to the caravan for the Royal Wedding weekend - I hope you all enjoy the next weekend's fun what ever you are doing.

Congratulations to William and Kate

St George's Day and Easter

2011-04-23T16:21:00.000+01:00

Happy St George's Day

It is a little disappointing that we do not celebrate this day, not necessarily with a Bank Holiday but we don't even go the pub like the Irish do for St Patrick :( We welcome and enjoy many cultures in our society and we enjoy many celebrations from many religions/beliefs - so why do we ignore our own :( we can't moan about losing our identity if we do nothing to show we care.

Happy Easter

Tomorrow is Easter Day - a day to celebrate in many ways for many people. We are having all the family round for dinner and we'll be exchanges eggs. I have put up our Easter Tree, this is usually at the caravan but this year we are home for Easter and the tree is a very special one. My Grandmother's tree had to be dug up from our front when we had the drive done and although I love the drive it was a little upsetting. We've saved a few cuttings which may grow if Ruby stops chewing them and we also saved one of the branches. Our Easter Tree thisyear is Grandma's Tree and I'm sure will be for any future Easters we have at home.

Easter Tree

I have finished Dusty's RR - I didn't quite finish in Wales as I had no 3774 but it's alldone now and looks lovely. It's for the 2011 Needlecraft Haven RR and we only have one more posting until the Robin's arrive home.

Dusty's RR

And today is Opening Day for the Needlecraft Haven Spring Bookmark Exchange. I won't show you the one I sent as I want to make sure my partner has received and opened it, but here is the gorgeous bookmark stitched for me by Kate - it's Spring by Glory Be.

Spring Bookmark stitched by Kate

Because we're at home this Easter we are doing the back garden. Nothing too major but lots of tidying up. Today we have been to B & Q and boughts the tools and a few bits we need and then popped to Wickes where we bought a new back gate (not on the original shopping list but hey ho) DH is fitting it now and I'm inside keeping Ruby quiet until it's all secure - good reason to be blogging eh??

Have a great St George's Day and a fabulous Easter - blessings to all xx x

Sunny Wales

2011-04-20T08:08:00.000+01:00

We've just had a lovely sunny weekend in Wales; we didn't do anything major just relaxed, walked Ruby along the esturary and along the beach. We did have a game of putting - here are a few photos :)

Philly putting

Looking down towards the sea and Barmouth Bridge

Looking up the estuary

We'd love to live here

The Girls

Just before we went away my lovely scarf arrived from Hazel - she wore one of these at Needlecraft Haven's meet up. I couldn't resist and ordered one which Hazel made very quickly - thanks Hazel it's gorgeous.

My lovely new scarf

I did quite a lot of stitching whilst away but I'll add some photos next post as one thing isn't quite finished. I did Dusty's RR and now am working on Hazel's RR - both from Needlecraft Haven.

Enjoy this glorious sunshine - we are home this Easter and are working on the back garden, so lots of piccies in my next blog.

Easter blesisngs to all x x x

One month later

2011-04-01T17:31:00.000+01:00

I can't believe it's a month since I updated my blog - I must have been busy LOL so here's what's been going on:

Saturday 19th March was the 1st Meet Up for Needlecraft Haven - it was a fab day, lot sof chatting and stitching. A few games which I think everyone enjoyed, and a pub meal to finish :) Here's a few piccies (thanks Rachael and Chris)

Julie gave me a gorgeous gift at the Meet Up - one of her bunnies called Mrs Ticklestick - she now helps me keep Needlecraft Haven sorted.

Mrs Tickstick

Last weekend DH and I went to open up the caravan for the season - after sorting out a burst pipe and capturing a runaway Ruby we had quite a good weekend. We had a lovely walk up the estuary on Saturday.

Ruby and I on the estuary walk

Stitching wise I have finished Jaclyn's RR - I did the Cardinal bird. I am posting it off to Dusty tomorrow.

Jaclyn's RR

I have just finished Mum's Prairie Schooler piece in time for Mother's Day tomorrow - I just have to frame it now and it's finished. I have the Q to do next for her birthday in May.

S from Prairie Schooler Alphabet

And finally here is my Tusal jar - it's certainly filling up this year

Tusal Jar April 2011

I will try not to leave it another month before blogging again - thanks for catching up with all my news :)

TUSAL March 4th

2011-03-04T16:54:00.000Z

It's TUSAL time again and I have to say this year my jar is filling up nicely :)

March 4th

I have been doing quite well with my Prairie Schooler - I am loving the design and the chart is really wasy to read (unlike some that have symbols that are too simillar)

Prairie Schooler WIP

I managed to do three ornaments for the Needlecraft Haven monthly stitch along - I had already stitched them so just had the finishing to do and again I took the easy option and used my bondaweb. I might be a bit more adventurous this month if there's time.

And this is the February Challange piece, again from Needlecraft Haven. I wasn't sure how to finish it so made it into an ornament - I think I should have done the heart in red as a contrast.

February Challenge

I have ordered and received the pdf charts fro the first two parts of the Sampler au Bouquets SAL - I just need to find some fabric now and get it set up. I am also doing a Spring Bookmark Exchange (NH again) and have chosen my design and fabric, just need to sort out my threads.

All these projects are a little scary for me as I am usually a one or two project stitchers, it feels odd to have so many wips on the go. Here's the list for this month:

Prairie Schooler to be finished and framed by 2nd April

Jaclyn's RR to be ready to post 8th April

Spring Bookmark to be ready to post 19th April

March Monthly Challenge to be finished by 31st March

March Monthly Christmas ornament to be finished by 31st March

Sampler au Bouquet SAL starts 15th March

What can I say but h...e...l...p I need more minutes in each hour and more hours in each day :~}

What a week

2011-02-24T09:56:00.000Z

It's half term and instead of having a holiday I've been so busy - some good, some not so good.

Firstly DH and I went to Blenheim Palace for the day on Monday. My Dad had won some tickets and as he's too unwell to go we went instead.Once there you can convert your ticket into a yearly pass for no extra charge so we can now visit all year. The weather was horrid so we only did the house (stunning, absolutely stunning) and will go back in the summer to enjoy the gardens which were landscaped by Capability Brown.

On the way home we picked up DH's mum as she was staying with us a few days. No problem but it meant sorting out beds and stuff. Tuesday all the family went out for a meal for DD's birthday. We were 10 altogether with the grandparents - my Dad managed but was noticeably slow. In the morning I took MIL and DD into town while DH waited at home for the carpet fitter (new bathroom is now finished ).

Wednesday was a rush everywhere. Ruby has been loosing weight so I took her to the vets Friday and they sent off some blood samples. The vet was worried that she had Addison's disease so Wednesday I had to take her back so she could have a few tests. She stayed there just over an hour and was really good.

DD also had the docs and has had to have a blood test this morning (I think she's copying Ruby).The vet rang last night to say she hasn't got it and hopefully the weight will be just a low B12 probelm - this means weekly injections for 6 weeks and she's on a high sensitive commercial food to see if that helps (no more cooking dog food I hope) She seems ok in herself so hopefully this will sort her out. We get DD's results next week. MIL went home lunchtime Wednesday.

I have completed Tina's RR - from Needlecraft Haven, I stitched the panel on the right (sorry about the wonky photo). I can now spend sometime on my Prairie Sampler.

I am thinking of joining the Sampler au Bouquet SAL but only if the designis the right size for my curtain at the caravan.

Sampler au Bouquets

So my half term has been quite a busy one - I'm hoping to have a day at home today doing ...... nothing LOL well blogging, forum visiting and stitching maybe :)

Thanks for popping by - take care x x

Elliot HD, PS SAL and RR update

2011-02-20T17:34:00.000Z

It was DD's birthday on Thursday - I'm not sure how she got to 17 but it feels odd to have the 'baby' that grown up. Philly had a lovely day although she was at college. Her BF gave her tickets for the Leicester Tiger's rugby game yesterday, and my Dad bought her a Tiger's top. We had pizzas at home and I bought a cake from Sainsbury's. I managed to get a sparkler candle in the shape of a P.

Philly's 17th with her P sparkler

I managed to get Elliot stitched and framed in time - she loved it.

Elliot finished and framed

I have been working on Tina's RR from Needlecraft Haven She has chosen Seasonal Sampling by Hillside Samplings and I'm doing spring. I don't have a wish list really but this is so nice I've added it :)

Here's my progress so far, although the frog did pop by :(

and my final photo is my Prairie Schooler. I've started a SAL on Needlecraft Haven and this is my piece I'm doing - it's for Mum for Mother's Day. It's S for Sewing from the alphabet

Have a great week everyone - happy stitching.

New SAL and Elliot

2011-02-13T09:46:00.000Z

I'm not really sure how it happened - I asked if my Prairie Schooler project fitted into one of the SALs on Needlecraft Haven and have ended up hosting my first SAL lol

The SAL is open to anyone stitching any design by The Prairie Schooler - and if you're not already a member of Needlecraft Haven just apply and I'll authorise it. On the SAL page you just need to keep your own post to show your progress.

I'm doing 'S' from the alphabet series - it's for Mum on Mother's Day and hopefully I'll then do 'Q' for her birthday in May

and this is my progress from last night

Fabric: 32ct evenweave in Ivory
Thread: DMC stranded cotton

I am busy stitching Elliot for DD's birthday which is on Thursday - not long I know and she keeps sitting downstairs at night so I can't do it LOL I have just about finished the stitching so just have the backstitch to do and then to frame it.

And finally I have finished my square on Chris' RR - Needlecraft Haven 2011 RR. I stitched the strawberries on Chris' RR last year so chose to do the strawberries again - mmmmmm french knots, lovely. I'm pleased with it though, it was a nice design to do (from The World of Cross Stitching magazine)

Wow that's a lot of stitching for me - looks like my mojo has definately returned after a very quiet year last year. Thanks for popping by, happy stitching.

Wine Tasting Weekend

2011-02-06T17:30:00.000Z

DH and I have just had our Christmas Present - we went to Bosworth Hall for the weekend on a Wine Tasting course.The hotel is only 10 miles from home but it meant we were there by 3.30 on Friday so had a whole evening to enjoy a carvery and plenty of time to watch the rugby (great game England - well done lads).

After a buffet breakfast Saturday we went into one of the magnificiant function rooms - the original part of the Hall dates from the late 1600's. Our bedroom was on the top floor of the orginal Hall (we were so lucky not to be in one of the modern parts of the hotel) and the function room was on the first floor - fantastic architecture everywhere.

The Wine Tasting was superb - 18 wines altogether but this was from 10am til 4pm so we weren't drunk, just heady. The host gave us so much information about how to taste - the difference in climate, countries, altitude. He told us all about storing wine, the containers making a difference to wine and we also had quizes and games through out the day. Lunch was included with wines to match the food, and we did a blind tasting. A brilliant event - we are hoping to do another one, lots of options that I'm mulling over LOL

This is the outside of Bosworth Hall - our room was and attic room at the back of the main Hall, on the right just under the chimneys. The views over the countryside were fabulous.

and this is the staircase we had to go up and down - isn't it amazing - the function room was on the floor the photo was taken from, just to the right along the landing.

I managed to do quite a lot on Elliot - whilst the rugby was on esepcially :) He's coming along really well and I should get it finished in time.

And finally my Cross Stitch class at school have been doing really well - quite a few have completed their letter and put it on a small note book. This is the link to the photo album I have set up for them. They are now all doing individual designs -some from books or magazines but two of the girls are doing my bookmark design.

it's still available to order with profits going to charity
£2.50 chart £3.50 kit plus postage

Happy Stitching - thanks for sharing my news :)

Elliot and TUSAL

2011-02-03T18:39:00.000Z

I have been working hard on Elliot - about 1/2 an hour every morning (before DD gets up LOL) This is my progress:

Elliot as @ 3/02/2011

Because it's Feb 3rd it's time for an update on my TUSAL - I have been stitching but not much - but more than last year whoo hoo. Here's my jar;

TUSAL Feb 3rd

That's all my news for now - they'll be a little more next time as DH and I are off for a wine tasting weekend this weekend - it's our Christmas pressie to each other :)

Thanks for popping by, happy stitching

January Monthly Challenge

2011-01-30T20:57:00.000Z

Today was reveal day for the Needlecraft Haven Monthly Challenge - Des Filles et une Aiguille ... by Tralata

This is my cat - I made it into a coaster :)

Fabric - 32ct evenweave Ivory
Thread - DMC 115 varigated

Christine has already put the February Challenge up - guess I better get stitching LOL

I had a great day today - I spent the morning making cards - one for the Sweet Feet Exchange on NH and 10 for the 2011 Birthday Thread Exchange, again on NH, I really enjoyed sitting making them whilst watching the tennis - maybe next time Andy. I can't share the photos just yet.

I am working on an Elliot design for DD's birthday - it's a lovely heart but her birthday is on 17th Feb so I have to get going. She has been really poorly this last week - she's had this awful flu and has been knocked off her feet for five days now. She is getting better but it's taking a long time.

WIP on Elliot - 30st Jan 2011

My new forum Needlecraft Haven is 1 month old tomorrow and I have designed a little chart as a thank you to all the lovely members. If you haven't popped by yet just apply for membership and I'll authorise it - you'll be able to browse around then and see all the fabulous things we're doing.

Thanks for popping by, happy stitching.

RR border completed, new bathroom and Ruby !

2011-01-23T19:41:00.000Z

I have finally finished my RR border - it's for a Round Robin I'm in with Tina, Julie and Hazel on Needlecraft Haven. I used Lizzie Kate designs and have re-plotted them. The finished RR will be a cushion for my little C1 - so it has to be pink of course :) You can see the design on my post Jan 4, and this is my border (I just have my 'a' to do, I'm waiting for postie as I ran out of thread)

Fabric - 32ct evenweave in white
Thread - DMC 335 & 309

I haven't started stitching as with only four people it would mean the last person has no choice - I'll do the last piece when it arrives home.

Needlecraft Haven is growing strong -I cannot believe there are over 70 members in just three weeks and over 45 of them are regular visitors. There is so much going on - 2 RRs, 5 SALs, 2 monthly activites and a MEET UP in March. There is also a new exchange just launched - it's allvery exciting and certainly keeps me on my toes LOL

The last two weeks at home have been busy as we've had the bathroom upstairs replaced. It was the original one and we've been here 25 years this summer. It's just perfect :)

The only problem was when DH did the painting yesterday and today.

I was only trying to help Dad - honest

That's about all my news - my health is slowing improving (not helped by a slip on the ice at school on Thursday - but no damage). I even managed to walk Ruby yesterday; first time since mid November.

Thanks for popping by, happy stitching.

Prize, Forum and Mr. Darcy

2011-01-14T21:59:00.000Z

I decided to give away the Sue Hillis Christmas Calories chart as the prize for the Christmas Quiz on Stitch and Stash. I stitched one of the cup cakes as a small ornament to go with it - Jaclyn was the lucky winner - and now the prize has arrived I can share the photo.

Sue Hillis Christmas Calories

I have done lots of stitching this week, mainly because Ruby is in the kennels so we''ve had quiet evenings. We're having the bathroom done and Ruby would not have coped very well with all the noise - she's home Sunday and although the bathroom isn't finished it's the quieter jobs now. I've really missed her, even though I know within an hour of her being back I'll be run ragged.

I can't share my stitching because of lot of it is for gifts or can't be shown until a reveal day.

The forum I started New Year's Eve is growing strong. Needlecraft Haven has 65 members and three of them have been talking so much they have already become Lilac Haveners - it is certainly becoming a lively place with many SALs and the first Robin flying already.

Wednesday DH and I went to see The King's Speech - a fabulous film for which Colin Firth deserves an oscar (as does histwo co-stars). Even at the cinema we applauded when it ended - so so good. I love colin Firth ( we share the same birthday ) and seeinghim againreminded me of Mr Darcy and a pub I went to last summer.

DH and I stopped at a pub for lunch before picking Philippa up from her netball camp. I popped to the loo but had a huge surprise. It was just one cubicle. You need to understand the layout so I've drawn it here - toilet door open - toilet on the left.

I went in the loo, looking towards the toilet and closed the door with my left hand so I did not see what was behind me. I was amazed to see the walls painted like a river scene. These are pictures facing the loo.

It's it amazing - such detail - I was very surprised and spent a while looking closely at the art work - it was soooooooooooooo good. Anyway I eventually sat down (I won't go into details LOL) and when I looked up I could now see the wall that had been behind the door (hidden from me as I entered) - and there in front of me was Mr Darcy !!

No joke - Mr Darcy (Colin Firth) staring so intently at me - and I'm on the loo !!!!!!! I have to say I could only look at his feet LOL I did feel uncomfortable with Mr Darcy watching me, but the painting was so good, here's a closer view.

I can't remember the exact name of the pub but I think it was The Red Lion near Pangbourne Near Reading in Berkshire. It really was a treat and now I've worked out how to get the photos off my phone I can share him with you - enjoy

Thanks for stopping by, happy stitching (oh and look behind you when you go the loo LOL)

Lots of news - and a winner

2011-01-09T20:11:00.001Z

I didn't know if I had anything to blog about but then today went crazy LOL

Firstly I went to The Fabric Guild in Leicester with Mum, it's mainly for quilters but they do have a few bits for other crafts. They buy up stock from closing shops and sell it on at VERY good prices. This is what I got today:

Craft items including a pompom maker

All my fabric, mainly fat quarters for
backing ornaments

Card making stuff

And I bought these crochet hooks and
small booklet - maybe I'll do it one day LOL

All of this and a liitle more came to under £30 and I got this as a freebie :)

And I had this freebie too

I have had a wonderful discovery - I know you'll laugh because I'm thinking it's something you all know about. I discovered Bondaweb for making ornaments - I usually use fabric glue or double sided tape but it's not always successful. I now know Mum uses Bondaweb for her applique work (I wondered how she did it)

Anyway I have stitched two of the Drawn Thread free Santas that Rachel (the student who followed me) stitched. I did it missing a square as she did and they look fab - I have just used my Bondaweb to attach them to felt and they look lovely - I am so pleased and feel so thick that I didn't know about it before .

My Bondaweb Santas

Last March I did a competition to guess how many non-stitching days I'd have. I didn't do much stitching at all (far more than the guesses) and I didn't really keep an accurate count. So I have put all the names on bits of paper and drawn a winner. The winner is Elaine - congratulations. I have emailed you for your postal address so I can send you this prize.

Elaine's Prize

Ruby has gone the kennels for a week as we're having the bathroom done and the noise in the day would drive her cerazy. It's very quiet without her - not nice - but I'm sure I'll get so much more done in the evenings. I will have a bit more time to work on Needlecraft Haven which is growing strong with 61 members already.

I have posted my RR to Dusty - there's only four if us in the 2011 Round Robin now and I decided to do coasters for the caravan. I'm looking forward to working on the other pieces. I also posted off a little something to Jaclyn who won the Christmas Quiz on NH - well done Jaclyn.

Thanks for reading my blog, happy stitching.

TUSAL - Jan 4

2011-01-04T20:04:00.000Z

It's the first photo for Daffycat's TUSAL - my jar is a bonbon jar my MIL bought me in a charity shop in Wales - I love it. I used it last year but didn't do much stitching so it was only half full. This is my 2011 start - please don't laugh - ok go on then it is funny.

TUSAL Jan 4

and just so you can see what I'm hoping it will look like; these are the orts from last year.

Completed jar 2010

I have chosen my RR piece for the Needlecraft Haven; I need a set of coasters for the caravan so I've plotted it out as one and will cut them out when the Robin comes home. I'm hoping it will still go ahead but Lynn is poorly in hospital and has had to pull out. Get well soon Lynn.

My RR fabric and working copies of the charts
- all from The World of Cross Stitching

I have been overwhlemed by the number of friends joining Needlecraft Haven; I decided to take the big step of owning my own board. The biggest worry was whether anyone would visit and more importantly decide to stay. It's easy to tell people about a new venture; it's harder to make it exciting and new. Thank you to everyone who has supported me in this venture - I'm hoping it will be a 'haven' for a very long time.

Today was my first day back at work since being ill - I am very tired but it was good to get back to school. It was teacher training day so a good way to start - tomorrow the kids are back.

Dh and I have booked a gite in the Loire Valley for our summer hols. It will be the first year without the children although DD and her BF are travelling down with us and staying for a few days before travelling onto spend the rest of the holidays with BF's family who are staying in a caravan on the Atlantic Coast. They are travelling back with us so we'll meet up again.

Stitching wise I have quite a bit ot do - tonight I'm hoping to work on the monthly challenge piece. It's a cat design - reveal day is Sunday 30th Jan so I can show you then. I also have a few secret things to do and the JTHC 2011 RR to stitch the borders on - hopefully 2011 has more hours than 2010 as I have lots to do - hee hee

My JTHC 2011 RR - I put together some Lizzie Kate designs usind my pc chart program
- I managed to copy and paste individual letters to make our names in LK style.

That's all my news for now - thanks for popping by :)

Change for 2011

2011-01-02T09:36:00.000Z

I have taken a huge step as 2010 ended and 2011 began - I have started my own fourm. It's called Needlecraft Haven and you're very welcome to pop by :) The initals are the same as my DH's and is you split the words into three it's both of us (Nick, Clare, Hearnden) - what a softy I am LOL

I have been so surprised andoverwhelmed at the speed inwhich my fellow stitchers have joined - the forum is already buzzing with chat, stitching and I've just set the games up too :) There have also been some old friends popping by and joining - a real boost to 2011 :)

I have not been stitching because of all the pc work but I've had a bit of a problem too. I'm in an RR with Dusty, Lynn, Jaclyn and Chris and first posting starts Friday. I was still puzzling over what to do but this morning I woken with the answer:) I like to use the RRs to make useful things - the last two have been tabecloths and the other RR I'm in is to make a cushion. I have decided to make coasters for the caravan :) I have some very stiff aida which will travel well - I'll mark it out asone large RR and cut up when it gets home - I feel so much better now and ready to stitch the first one and do the marking out, phew!

I have joined Daffycat's TUSAL but I'm not sure how many orts there will be by the first photo - it's only 2 days away LOL

Wishing you all the best in 2011 - happy stitching :)

2011 - wishing you health and happiness

2010-12-31T16:06:00.000Z

2010 is almost over and I'd like to wish you and your family health and happiness for 2011.

Happy New Year 2011

And to end the year off in a stitching note I have finally finished a WIP - I started this on 14th June 2009 (yes really) and I picked it up again over Christmas. I'm not keen on the fabric I used and as usual my finishing is not the best - a skill I am determined to work on in 2011 - but overall it looks good.

Christmas Wishes - Loopylou Designs

Enjoy the remaining hours of 2010 - see you all in 2011

Christmas Joy

2010-12-26T21:43:00.001Z

I've had a great Christmas - nothing overly special just a fab time with friends and family.

It all started Christmas Eve when we went out for a meal with DD's BF's family. Followed by bowling with them and DS's GF's family. We have been bowling on Christmas Eve for the last 5 or so years (it's a great way to keep teenagers occupied before bed and it means I have to get everything done by tea time so no last minute rushing around).There were 14 of us all together and we had a great time. This is my Facebook album but for those who don't have face book here's my favourite piccies.

DD's BF Kieran and DS Michael

DD Philly and Me

Christmas Day was great, my Dad came down (first time he's left his house since coming outof hospital) he was tired but did manage the whole day. Thank you for all the well wishes whilst he's been unwell, they have meant so much to me.

My Dad

Christmas table

Christmas Cake with my stitched cake band

I had some lovely gifts; a scarf and friendship calendar from Julie; a hardanger chart from Karan; a compact mirror from Barb and a DMC thread set my friend in Canada Breda - thank you ladies

My lovely gifts

Ruby had a lovely day too - she loved this new toy - a plastic cracker

Ruby and her toy

Today DH and I went to MIL's for lunch - it was so beautiful driving along - they have had more frost and snow than us and it looked so magical. I took some photos on my phone whilst we were driving along but they've come out quite well. They are here in my online photo album but here are my favourite two.

Tomorrow DH and I are off to Birmingham on the train - we should have gone last Thursday but the weather was too bad - we're having lunch at Cafe Rouge; it's our favourite restaurant and he has a champagne voucher for his birthday :0

I hope you have all had a wonderful Christmas - God bless x x x

Framed pictures, a surprise gift and success

2010-12-23T20:36:00.000Z

I framed two pictures last night - not perfect but I'm happy with them. The first is the Ruby wedding anniversary piece I stitched for my Godmother and her hubby - I was their bridesmaid back in 1970 :)

Ruby Wedding Anniversary for my Godmother and hubby

I cut the mount myself - the first time I have done this - it's ok for a first attempt :) and I think I would make my own frames again.

The other piece I framed was my Christmas Calories piece - I don't like the mount but it came with the frame which was very difficult to fit. After Christmas I think I'll be taking it out the frame and making a cushion. It's not a good picture either, I was a bit wonky.

Sue Hillis Christmas Calories

I received a surprise gift in the post today from Constantina in Greece. She sent me two lovely Marie Claire magazine in french :) There are some lovely things to make and of course I can practice my reading :) She also sent two lovely little note books - Thanks Constantina.

Marie Claire Magazines from Constantina

Finally some good news - I've been complaining to social services for the last ten days as the final assessment person reduced my Dad's care to one call a day - he was on two before he went into hospital and now he uses a zimmer upstairs and down and has a commode downstairs. The commode and his diabetes were the issues, especially the comode as with one call it's only being emptied once a day -disgusting!!

I seemed to be going round in circles with the departments but as from last Monday Dad was back with his old care team and one of the ladies put in a complaint that he should have two calls a day as before - she complained again today and threatened to take it higher - bless her.
Well today the social have called me to say Dad's calls will go up to two a day from next Monday - he won't have to pay (the assessment lady wanted him to find someone privately to empty his commode on an evening call - Dad was mortified at this thought). And I had a call from the assessment person saying she had tried to return my call all last week (I was here off sick lol no call) anyway she was very apologetic - my guess is she was told to ring - funny how she rang today after care call reinstated.

I have tried to stay calm the last two weeks because it won't do my health any good but this has been driving me mad - Dad has more need and they had cut his care in half. I am so grateful to the care lady - Dad's already got a bottle of wine ready for her. I now have a happier Dad and am calmer Clare.

I hope you are all ready for Christmas; have a great time - God bless friends and famillies - Merry Christmas x x

Happy Dancing @ Christmas

2010-12-20T08:03:00.000Z

I am sooooooooooooooooo pleased with my latest finish - I saw it when browsing Sew and So and fell in love with it. I rarely by a chart on impulse and stitch it straight away but I just couldn't resisit lol Maybe it was fate becuase this piece certainly kept me company over recent weeks :)

Sue Hillis 'Christmas Calories'

Fabric : 28ct Linen (blush)
Thread : DMC stranded cotton

I spent a lovely afternoon yesterday sorting out my stitching bags and box. I have found a few WIPs which I am going to try to finish in 2011. I also found a couple of quaker designs so I can join in the Stitch and Stash Quaker SAL and I sorted out all my LHN charts that I was supposed to stitch this year - oops.

I have two RRs to kit up and I know what I want to do for the church tree next year so I am going to look for charts and get ready. Ileft it a little late this year but thankfully the tree turned out just fine. In case you missed my last blog here's the link to my album with the Christmas Tree Festival pictures.

Keep warm x x x

Christmas Tree Festival - stunning trees

2010-12-18T18:16:00.000Z

It is St Lawrence's Christmas Tree Festival this weekend and mid week. There are over 60 trees all decorated in a different theme mainly relating to trees.This is the third year I have done a tree and this year my tree is 'The Cross stitch Tree' becaue I stitched lots of crosses.My mum made some too and Dusty sent some of her own hardanger designed ones over from USA, thanks Dusty :) Angi also sent a cross; a tiny red red one that's so cute, thanks Angi.

All the photos are in my online album but here is my tree and a few more.

Me and my Tree

one of Dusty's ornaments

Angi's tiny red cross

View of the church

A couple of months ago at school I had a student teacher following me for a week: Rachel was lovely and very interested in my cross stitching class. Whenshe left I gave her a little chart, some fabric and thread to have a go. She stitched a gorgeous Santa, mounted ona card and sent it me - I'mso honoured to have her first piece of stitching. I'm hoping she will join the Stitch and Stash forum. She didn't quite get the idea as she left a blank square between each stitch - BUT it is sooooooooooooooooo effective I might do some like this myself.

A gorgeous card from Rachel

Good news is I went back to work for two days - we're now on Christmas hols; I wanted to go back to sort my classes out for January and to get my head round working again. However school have agreed I can work at home on Fridays from January until Easter which will help me rest. Friday is mainly my admin day so I can easily do that at home. It isn't my work load but the physical side of working - getting ready, driving there, walking about - so if I can have one day when I can do things slowly at home it will help me rest. Hopefully after Easter I can go back full time.

I am going to try to get my Sue Hillis finished this weekend - and I have somany things I am wanting to stitch/kit up including my two RR's for 2011.I think my stitching mojo has returned so hopefully 2011 will be more productive than 2010 was.

Finally a HUGE thank you to all my friends who have bneen so helpful and supportive whilst I've been off ill. I know I suffer terribly from side effects when taking the steroids and my stitching friends certainly helped me through.

Christmas Decorations

2010-12-12T19:18:00.000Z

We put our decorations up yesterday - a little different to previous years as we have new sofas and didn't know where the tree would fit. After a bit of jiggling around - mainly Ruby's cage - we have the main tree in the conservatory and our Friendship Tree is by the tv.

Our main tree

Our Friendship Tree

The Friendship Tree has ornaments from friends all around the world and I used these for the St Lawrence's Church Christmas Tree Festival 2008. This is the festival my crosses are for.

I love snowmen and out mantle is snowman themed (my get well flowers and cards are there too at the moment). Ruby trys to play with the big blue one but so far we've managed to stop her.

Snowman Mantle

I used to be a Partylite consultant and collected many beautiful porcelain houses - this is my favourite Christmas one, the skater moves round when the music is on.

Partylite Ice Skater

I am working on my Sue Hillis Christmas piece - hopefully it will be done in time :)

I think I now have the steroids out of my system; my head is a lot clearer; no more weird dreams; and only one panic yesterday. I am back at work on Thursday for just two days before we break up for Christmas. I don't feel strong enough to do the full week so two days will be enough.

Happy stitching, keep warm and remember - it's nearly Christmas :)

Stitching update and wintery photos

2010-12-08T13:44:00.000Z

I have managed to finish the backstitching on the cookies on my Sue Hillis Christmas piece. It wasn't too bad so I think I might have a go at following the chart later for the next bit- just hope the frog stays away :)

Cookie back stitch all done:)

Yesterday was Dad's 84th birthday - a day that seemed along way away earlier this year. We had a lovely chinese take-away at his and he seemed very content in his old age :)

My health is improving -slowly and I am not sure when I am going back to work. Unlike me I actually feel a bit scared about it but I know that is a side effect of the steroids (along with the panics, fast heart beats and blushing/sensative skin). I must go back next week if only for a day to prep my desk for the new term in January.

Tomorrow we have tickets to see Jeff Wayne's War of the Worlds at NIA Birmingham - I have been looking forward to this for ages - nothing will stop me going; guess I'll be sleeping all Friday lol

We've had a very sharp hard frost here the last few days - these are some photos I took of our garden.

Ruby in the frost

...and these are some photos that Michael has taken for his job at Brandon Marsh

Frost at Brandon Marsh

Robin at Brandon Marsh

I have finally cooked my Christmas cake and am hoping to do some pressie wrapping this afternoon.

Ruby has decided there is only one place to be when it's cold, she was a bit surprised when I found her hee hee.

Behind the sofa next to the warm - dog's life :)

Stay warm, have fun x x x

Good Saturday :)

2010-12-04T18:19:00.000Z

I'm still notcoping very well with these steroids - one reason why I put off going to see the specialist because they really put me in a horrid place, weird dreams, metal taste and feeling like I'm not really here - but only two more doses :) sorry to start with a moan:(

I've had a quiet day - DH took me to Woodlands Garden Centre to have a trip out, it was a bit confusing and I got in everyone's way alking so slow but I enjoyed lol We bought quite a few things from The Works (they have an outlet there) and DH had a 25% off voucher from them by email so we saved a fortune. We had a nice jacket spud for lunch which I had with chilli beef so I could taste something hee hee

This afternoon (and a bit this morning) I have sat quietly and recycled some Christmas cards from last year and made quite a few new ones for this year :)

Christmas cards made from recyling bits from last year's cards.

I also did a bit more stitching last week on my Sue Hillis design - I'mreally pleased with it and hope to have it finished in time for Christmas so it cango in the kitchen - not sure where yet though. I have the cookies to backstitch before I do the design bit under the wording.

Sue Hillis WIP

I also made the rest of my church crosses - good job I'm off work or they would never be done in time. I have lots of card ones from Mum and some lovely hardanger ones from Dusty, so with these one's I've done there should be plenty. I'm going to have just plain white lights this time and lots of silver tinsel.

All my crosses ready for church

These are a few of the Ianthe Badger photos Michael took at work, I do like the toy badger I got him and apparantly he's been a huge success at Brandon too. Michael made him an official name tag lol

I'm hoping to sit and do some Christmas wrapping tomorrow,another nice and quiet job. I hope everyone is safe and warm in this wintery weather, thanks for reading my news x x x

Health update

2010-12-02T09:41:00.000Z

Unfortunately with all the worry/stress about Dad, working hard and general life jobs my MS has flared up. Fir a few weeks I have been getting slower and slower and my balance is awful (can be funny though)

I have been off work since last Thursday and saw the hospital specialist yesterday. He has confirmed a replase and has put me on a high dose of steroids fro 5 days and off work until 13th. I really dislike steroids as I do have some horrid side affects - one of feeling drunk without the fun :( Because they stimulate my nerves to repair the damaged ones the good ones get over stimulated so I get tingling, fuzziness and redness on my skin. Last time my back felt like I'd been burnt :( I already have the fuzziness in my face and neck after the first dose. I shouldn't moan as I know they are actually doing me good - just gotta get over them :)

DS is back at work although not on his moped. The Police have recovered the bike but the Wheels for Work people have to check it over. He's been going on the bus with quite a long wlak but in this weather that's safer than his bike. This is the facebook page of what he's doing - he is Ianthe Badger. I bought him a stuffed toy which he has given a proper id tag and has taken photos ofnhim round the site. If you use facebook please add him as a friend - he is working on marking and media and needs to show it is working.

DD had her certificate night last Thursday whenshe picked up her GCSE certificates. She felt very pleased to see all the A*, A and Bs on official certificates. She was also awarded Attatinment in four subjects :)

I have been making a few more crosses for the church tree festival which is soon. They are quite quick to do and with no chart I can do them even if my meds are confusing me. I am going to try to plot my JHTC RR for Stitch and Stash too (might be too much just yet) and look for charts for the 2011 RR. There are lots of activities on Stitch and Stash - pop by and have a look, if you're not a member just say you found the site through my blog :)

I hope everyone is ok in this harsh weather - take care x x

Rural England, Christmas Stitching and Health

2010-11-25T13:00:00.000Z

Nick and I enjoyed another weekend away in Rockingham. We like the Best Western Hotel there and just love the surrounding countryside. We were very lucky this time; DH has a loyalty card so we had a free upgrade :)

On Saturday it was very foggy; we drove around looking at some historical places although they weren't open due to it being winter season.

Eleanor Cross

This cross is one of 12, it's at Geddington. They were built as a memorial to Edward I's wife and there is one in every place her body rested overnight on it's way back to London. This is the full story - Eleanor Crosses

Triangular Lodge

You can't see too well from this photo but this lodge was built in the shape of a triangle. It's owned by English Heritage.

Market Harborough Grammar School

Typical English Ford

These two pictures show just how English and quaint the area is. I feel so at home in the area and just love all the villages. Rutland is truely a beautiful place.

I have been stitching on a piece for Christmas - it's coming along really well, hopefully it will be finished soon. The stitch club at school are also doing well and hopefully soon I'll have some photos of their finished work.

Christmas Stitching

On a down note I am suffering with my MS - I am not walking very well, have pain in my left arm and feel very tired. I have contatced the MS nurse so we'll see what she suggests. I've taken today off school to have some rest - at least I can blog, chat and stitch :)

Happy Thanksgiving to all my American friends x x

Round Robin update

2010-11-14T09:15:00.000Z

I have completed the wording on one side of my Round Robin and nearly completed the other :) I'm ready then to start adding the hardanger, although I'm not sure yet as to the design (I need to count the spaces out).

One side of the lettering is done

I have nearly finished this side too

I can then start planning out my next Round Robin which is a private one (although we're showing our progress on Stitch and Stash) between myself, Julie, Hazel and Tina. I have all my charts now so just need to find some fabric and start plotting :) I like to use the RRs to make things I need - in previous years I have used RRs and exchanges to have the centres for all my cushions at the caravan :) and the last two RRs I did have been tablecloths. This new RR will be another useful item - but I'm not saying what just yet ;)

I'll take some close ups when we go next year - but these are my caravan cushions

I have been doing some reading this month - I've finally finished reading Five Quarters of the Orange by Joanne Harris - it was ok but not my favourite of hers. I have also read All Balls and Glitter by Craig Revel Horwood - such a laugh and a real eye opener into how he got where he is - quite a risk taker at times too.

My next read is The Winter Ghosts by Kate Mosse - I liked her other books so I'm hoping this will be as good.

DH and I have been listening to Burning Bright by Tracy Chevalier on audio book when we go on our long journeys. It's lasted a trip to the caravan and back, and the two trips to Stoke for the car. It's lovely travelling along with the story to my iPod touch so we'll be able to listen to more audio books on our journeys. Burming Bright was a good story and very well read - lots of voice change for the characters which adds to the story.

Dad is doing really well - he's home and has a carer calling 4 times a day.It was a bit hectic getting him home and the first night. The hospital stuff was ridiculous ending up with me fetching dad, no care assessment but carer turned up at 7 after I'd done tea. That was last call but too early for him to go to bed, so we said we'd go back at 9.30 and help him to bed. We did and found him on the floor, tumbled using his frame and been there hour and a half.

999 again, it took four of us to get the frame from under him and get him off the floor. Paramedics checked him over and we helped him to bed. Since then he's been ok, I've had to pop up a few mornings and evenings because until today he's been slotted in on the care rota -after today he'll have a set plan - phew.#

In himself he's really perky and insisted that last night Nick and I gofor a meal out as a thank you. Everyday he isdoing a little more for himself - the biggest thing is his strength and walking around.

We're off to MIL's for dinner today and I'm hoping to get some of my stitching done or I might take my knitting - I need to keep my left arm moving as it's stiffening up a little so the knitting would be best if it's not too painful to do.

God bless on Remembrance Day -

prayers to everyone who has given their life,

prayers for all those who have been injured in conflict,

prayers for all their families and

prayers for us all to find peace.

Halloween - whooooooo, hoooooooo

2010-10-31T18:24:00.000Z

We went out for a meal today with the grandparents for Michael's birthday, it was a bit odd because Dad wasn't there (more about him later) and Philly wasn't there because she was on her first day a Debenhams. I made some Halloween cupcakes instead of a big birthday cake.

Dad is improving but it's been a difficult week. He was moved Tuesday to another ward as he was doing well, the new ward was an overflow ward with mainly agency nurses. They were terrible, hardly ever came when Dad pressed his buzzer. We visited on Weds afternoon before driving 3 hours to the caravan because we need to close it down for winter. A friend visited Dad and rang to say he was shocked how poorly he was, poor breathing and didn't seem with it. We rang the hospital and were told Dad was not co-operating and they had struggled to get him to stand out the car so had not changed him since afternoon visiting. I was fuming but we couldn't drive back.

We packed the caravan up Thurs morning and drove 3 hours home in time for afternoon visiting. Dad was definately unwell, and was being kept in bed because he wouldn't get out he chair the nght before. They said he was being unco-operative, but the chair was so low he couldn't stand to get out as he has poor strength in his legs anyway. He had big black eyes, very poor breathing and not really aware of much. I asked the nurse for some oxygen, the look said it all but I insisted and eventually she fitted him a new mask.We complained to the Patient Service and that evening requested Dad move wards.

Friday morning he was moved back to a ward he'd been in before, was on full oxygen and the nurses were bustling around saying 'fancy seeing you back here Ron'. By evening visiting Dad was so much better, they had found a chest infection and put him on anti-biotics .Our friend visited again and was amazed at how much better he looked, he said he was quite worried Weds and I dread to think how Dad would have been if we'd have stayed in Wales until Fri.

Two days on Dad is back to his old chatty self, still on the drip but in the chair, being regularly changed and eating all his dinners. He said he felt like a bag of potatoes on the other ward but feels like a person now :) He's been in three weeks now and it is nice to seehim finally improving but it's very tiring all the rushing around. I'm back at school tomorrow too.

Stitching wise I have finished the summer basket on my Round Robin peice and have now started the lettering.

I have also started knitting again - I bought some wool at the bargain price of 40p a ball and the pattern is a freebie from Prima. It will be a short sleeved jacket when it's done, fingers crossed. It's not quite the right wool and there are a few large stitches which I might have to move along later.

Happy Halloween everyone, thanks for flying by :)

London, birthday and stitching

2010-10-25T22:03:00.000+01:00

We've had a great weekend in London with our friends.The journey down on Friday was not so good, 4 hours in total, the last 8 miles taking 1 hour 45 minutes :( The Travelodge is always good, we use City Airport which is quite new and has a bar downstairs. Saturday morning we walked around South Bank and had a quick visit to Tate Modern. There was plenty of time to enjoy lunch at our favourite Thames side pub, Dogetts, before popping into Selfridges to buy my Nespresso glasses. We saw Graham Norton there doing a book signing.

The Tesco Wine Fair (our main reason for going to London) was great; there were 55 stands with five or six samples at each. It's great to get to try wines we wouldn't buy and using the guide book we now have ticks and crosses against wines to buy when we go shopping.

We had a lovely meal at Pizza Express before taking the tube back to the hotel - another very good trip but I did struggle to get around and have rested yesterday and today :0

I have worked hard on the summer basket on my RR tablecloth, I don't get to do much stitching each day but it's coming along.

I have also finished another cross but it needs the silver lines adding, I have added the silver to the other four.

DH is off this week as well and hopefully we'll get to the caravan for a day or two. We need to close it down for the winter, hopefully we'll get to use it more next year as we didn't really visit that often in 2010.

Thanks for reading my news, happy blogging x x

Lots of news

2010-10-18T11:51:00.000+01:00

It's been over a month since I blogged - the only reason is lack of time. I can blog today because unfortunately I am off work; I've had a very bad cold which has affected my MS so now I need a couple of days to let my body recover.

Home news: my dad is in hospital after a fall on his mobile scooter, he's been in a week and is improving but seems so tired. He has always looked good for his age (84 in Dec) but this fall has definitely aged him. I'm off to the hospital to see him again this afternoon.

Philippa has settled well into Sixth Form college, and has survived the two weeks her boyfriend Kieran was away in America. She has changed from netball to volleyball and now plays for Nuneaton Ladies.She is now Gold Ambassador for the Sports Academy and is one of the leaders on a netball course for younger girls over half term.

Michael is enjoying his new job - he is working hard at promoting the Nature Reserve. Ianthe Badger is the facebook account - please have a look and become a friend.If you are based in the Midlands it is a great place to visit and enjoy a day outside; wellies and binoculars recommended. They do have some events on over half term, just click on the facebook events tag.

Stitching News

I had a great day on Saturday at the Stitch and Stash meet up (I did just sit and stitch though). Julie, Rachel, Tina (and her three friends), Angie, Vikki (and her daughter India), Jackie, Kathy (who organised a fab day), Lynn, Jacqui, Tracey and Hazel all travelled to Nuneaton for the day. We had a great time sharing ideas, wips and finishes. We also spent some time planning Round Robins and ideas for updating the forum; pop along and see, it's growing :) One thing I've added is a gallery to show off work we've done over the week - a great way to see things growing.

The rest of my news is in picture form - enjoy :)

Dusty's Round Robin - I was the lucky stitcher to complete this, I stitched the birdhouse above the writing.

This is my Round Robin - it will be a table cloth when it's finished. I am currently working on the summer basket.

Julie taught me how to crochet - this was my first attempt (it's a new design as I did it wrong but it looks ok)

My second attempt and this time it's right :)

Dusty sent over these gorgeous crosses for my Cross Stitch tree at church's Christmas Tree Festival.

Mum made all these too, mainly card but two tatting ones and a knitted cross.

and I've done a new centre on this one; it was an accident as there is no centre hole so I did a double line but I'm very impressed with it and will be doing the others the same way.

This is a Ruby Wedding sampler for my Godmother, I think I'll make it into an ornament with white lace and red ribbon.

Thank you for reading my blog - I'll try to keep the news flowing a bit more often :)

Birthday Thank you :)

2010-09-12T20:35:00.001+01:00

I've had a fantastic birthday - truely spoilt and would like to thank my fantastic hubby Nick, Michael and his girlfriend Amii, Philippa and her boyfriend Kieran, mine and Nick's families, friends, neighbours and colleagues - your kindness and generosity made me feel very humble - thank you all so much.

Here are just a few things that happened for my birthday.

I have already blogged about my car, party and coffee maker but didn't show piccie of my lovely red machine, so here it is :)

When I got home from work on Friday (my actual birthday) Nick had decorated the house and laid the table for a special dinner :)

and what a special dinner we had - it was lovely to be all together.

After dinner we went to the Praha in Hinckley as Michael had a gig - the bands before him were not quite our sort of music but it was great to see him play and sing. As you can see we did have fun :)

I had some gorgeous gifts - mum and Keith bought me this fabulous table cloth back from their trip to Austria, and I had a huge amount of cards and gifts - thank you everyone :)

and Julie made this fabulous mat - you're so clever Julie - I'd love to learn how this is done if you fancy showing me at the Nuneaton meet up.

The post still keeps arriving - Saturday I had a lovely parcel from my friend Brenda in Canada, some Monaco fabric and DMC Linen Embroidery Floss - oh and a doggy biscuit for Ruby from her dog Toffee (Toffee used to send to BJ and vica versa so now Toffee sends to newbie Ruby)

Yesterday we went to our bridesmaid's wedding - she looked great aged 11 at our wedding and absolutely stunning yesterday - congratulations Sarah and Ian, hugs and wishes for your future together x x

Nick took this photo at the wedding yesterday - Philippa, Dad and me - one to treasure !

Thank you to everyone from a very grateful lady - hugs to everyone x x

New car, new job and a party !!

2010-09-06T21:29:00.000+01:00

Wow what a lot has happened in a few days - but firstly I can finally say I feel well, although I have not been eating properly and have put on a lot of weight (hopefully I can get back on track soon)

So my news - I have my new car, a lovely white Citroen C1 Splash. This is me just leaving the sales garage :)

It is lovely to drive and it is so nice not to have to walk to school or ask others for a lift :)

On Wednesday Nick took me to Birmingham for a day out and we went to Selfridges and bought a new coffee maker - a Nespresso. Oh it's lovely, the coffee is so much nice than instant or the old coffee maker we had. I need to buy some more pods; I'll get some in London in October but I think I'll be buying online before then lol.

We went to Cafe Rouge for lunch because I had a voucher for free champagne. I joined their online club and we had to spend £30 on food but the champagne was free and should have been £30 - amazing offer :)

Then Friday Michael (who is the one with a new job - after a year on the dole :) ) passed his cbt motorbike test and now has a moped hired from the Job Centre to get him to work. He is working at Brandon Marsh Conservation Centre and is their marketing and media person for a six month placement.

And I picked up my new car - so it was a busy day :)

Saturday was my birthday party (but not my birthday lol) I had a fabulous time, our music teacher and her band played the first hour and then a disco. I said no pressie but to bring a plate of food for the buffet - and what a fabulous buffet we had, so much variety. My Slimming World lady also makes cupcakes and birthday cakes (doesn't quite fit does it lol) She made me lots of cupcakes instead of a large birthday cake, they were delicious. I was very brave and wore leggings, a tunic top and very high heels lol, not bad for 45 (well in a few days)

and my friend from school made this cake for me - isn't she clever, amazing detail.

So my birthday is later this week, and although I said no I do have some pressies to open. And on Saturday our bridesmaid is getting married next Saturday so I am really looking forward to that and then the following weekend DH and I are away for a quiet weekend.

On the stitching front I made some hostess badges for the tea ladies at St Cadfan's Church - and I used the idea to do another one using the design from the GOS #8 Challenge although it's only tacked together so far.

These are the church ones

and my Gos #8

and finally today Ireceived my Stitch and Stash exchange gift from Edda - Iorganised an online shop exchange where we had to use an online shop and purchase £5 worth of goodies to be sent directly to our partner. Edda sent me Polstitches Designs heart Pyramid Ornament kit and a skein of Rajmahal Art Silk shade 111 - thanks Edda it's a lovely kit and one I'll be doing as soon as I have time.

Well that's about all from me - hopefully I will have Dusty's RR finished soon, thanks for popping by :)

More good news :)

2010-08-27T17:19:00.000+01:00

Michael has got the job at Brandon Marsh Nature Reserve, he will be working there for 6 months helping to promote them on social networks and will be working on a long term project.

We have to sort out transport now and he is looking at the Wheels to Work scheme from the Job Centre which involves getting a small motor bike. It's great news :)

Philly has a telephone interview onTuesday for apart time job in Debenhams so fingers crossed for her.

And I signed the papers today for my new car which will be available next Friday for me to collect - whoo hoo a brand new Citroen C1 Splash in white - I can't wait.

All finished off with my birthday party next Saturday and my birthday a few days later.

Life is good - thanks be to God

Philly's results

2010-08-26T14:37:00.002+01:00

Just a quick blogging to say how proud we are of Philly :) She had her GCSE results on Tuesday and she achieved an amazing 7 A*, 5A and 3B - she also passed her AS English a year early getting a grade B.

We are so proud of her - she did work really hard and revised any spare minute.

and today Michael had a job interview which went really well so fingers crossed x x

At last it is a stitching post LOL

2010-08-14T17:34:00.000+01:00

I have changed my plan for the church Christmas tree. This is because I have not done anything yet and time is running out :)

So as I said before my new plan is a 'Cross Stitch Tree' with lots of hand stitched crosses. I have made a start using plastic canvas and some tapestry wool I had in my stash.

I only did half stitch as the wool is quite thick and the edges is simply overlapped. I have added a row of beads to give some definition - I think all the beads will be silver and then I will put clear white lights on the tree and silver tinsel.

For each cross I have matched as closely as I can from my stash the ribbon for hanging - I'm really pleased with them and they don't actually take long to do.

These are the materials I am using: plastic canvas,tapestry wool and ribbon (which I've attached with double sided tape)

These need finishing with beads and ribbon.

These are my first two completed crosses.

I am going to back then with felt and when I've used all my canvas and wool I'm going to have a go using some 14ct aida and edging it in tent stitch so hopefully it will look simillar to these.

Non-stitching news: this photo was taken about 14 years ago when Michael was 5 and Philippa 3. They entered the school fancy dress as 'The Owl and The Pussy Cat' and won first prize. Michael and I spend ages cutting the tissue feathers the make his mask and wings - I think the outfit is still in the attic. We were looking through old photos at Dad's (it's a photo of a photo so a little blurry)

Don't they look cute :)

Happy stitching, thanks for popping by x x

Not stitching but fab news

2010-08-13T20:13:00.001+01:00

I've just bought a brand new car |:)

I've bought a Citroen C1 Splash in white - it shouldcome end of August or early September - hopefully intimefor my birthday.

And another surprise - when I got home there was a letter from the Premium Bonds, I've won £25 :)

I'm really enjoying this Friday 13th x x x

Surprise phone call

2010-08-12T09:39:00.000+01:00

I've just had a lovely phone call from one of the 'tea ladies' at St Cadfan's Church. The Flower Festival was a huge success and the tea/coffee and cake stall raised £820 in total over the four days.

The ladies work so hard with all their baking, as well as serving/washing up on the actual days.

Brilliant work everyone :)

Holiday update

2010-08-09T22:42:00.000+01:00

We've had a great time in Wales, a bit of time just me and DH and a few days with Philly and her boyfriend. I managed to get quite a few things done, mainly because I have had to sit still a bit as my back has been giving me a lot of trouble. I did go the docs before the holiday and he gave me some anti-inflamatories and some strong painkillers. Unfortunately the tablets really upset my insides and I felt like my body fromthe waist down was trying to get to Australia lol. Anyway I stopped the tablets and things are improving, still have back ache though :(

So the things I got done were:

firstly catching up with my post - I sent letters and gifts to friends I had neglected a while, both home and abroad :)

secondly I made a huge amount of cards for the church

and thirdly I started making the church crosses - none quite finished so photos will have to follow.

I spent a lot of time at St Cadfan's this time, helping with the teas and coffees as it was the Flower Festival - the church looked gorgeous.

I made cakes too for the tea/coffee stall (they were actually bargain packet mixes from Sainsburys but they turned out great)

We had some fun on the beach and on a few trips out, especially to Llanfair PG which has the longest place name in the world.

I'm not sure what's happening the rest of the hols - I have many things plans, jobs at home, friendsto see, places to visit but I'll have to see how my back goes before making any real plans. The re-painting of the garden fences is definately a no go but I might get some of the other garden jobs done.

Have a great summer, thanks for reading my blog, hope you liked the photos x x

Stitching HD at last :)

2010-07-30T08:46:00.000+01:00

I have not been stitching or blogging much lately :) lots of reasons but this is not a post for moaning. I am hoping to be back to normal (if that's possible) soon.

I have finally finished Chris' RR - I have needed the whole six weeks and it's not really a big design. I did the strawberry bowl, the french knots were worrying but I think they look ok :) This RR has just one more place to visit so next posting allour Robin's come home - Dusty, Chris, Lynn, Jaclyn and Tina are you as excited as me??

We're off to the caravan today for 9 days, just me, DH and Ruby until Sunday when DD and her BF join us until Friday. We then have another weekend just us before coming home next Sunday. I'm looking forward to some relaxing time and a chance to catch up on many many things.

Because I have not been stitching I am so far behind with the stitching for the church Christmas tree. I have decided to change Symmetry as I will not get enoughstitched now in time. The new name is 'The Cross Stitch Tree' and I am going to stitch crosses :) It's a very simple chart and I am going to use up lots of my tiny scraps of material, canvas, floss and wool so there will be a variety of sizes.

If you would like to stitch a cross here's the chart (you can edge and back it anyway you like).

xxxxx

xxxxxxxxxxxxx

xxxxx

Thanks in advances to those who I know will be sending crosses - if you need to contact me my email is aimetu.clare@hotmail.com

and finally - does anyone fancy joining in a non-stitchy exchange? I thought this would be fun, no stitching panics and enable new online shops :)

your blog address

your full name

your postal address

your contact phone number

You will need to go online to ANY stitchy shop and buy £5 worth of goodies for your partner and have the parcel sent straight to them.

All goodies must be ordered by 25th August so that all goodies are received by 1st September

I think that's all from me - hopefully I will be back to blogging after my hols AND I'll have some stitchy news :) take care everyone and have fun x x

The Black Dress ...

2010-07-18T19:53:00.000+01:00

...was perfect :)

I had a brilliant timeat the school prom - it was such a good atmosphere,a great feeling of togetherness.

The black dress was perfect - and I now know where I'm heading next ;)

This was me and Michael before I went out hee hee

No stitching news but it's school hols soon so maybe then :)

Slimming World - on the move again

2010-07-07T07:56:00.000+01:00

I'm feeling quite rough at the moment with a summer cold. I came home early yesterday and have decided to stay off today. Hopefully I can rest on the sofa with my stitching :)

I just wanted to blog my SLimming World success - it's taken me 18moths but I have lost 31lb (2 stone 3 pounds). I am so pleased and after a few months of staying at the same weight I am finally loosing again.

It's our school prom next Friday and I have a black dress that I am hoping to wear so if I lose a couple of pounds this week it will be prefect :) positive thoughts :)

This is fat me at bowling Xmas 2009

and this is skinny me on the beach in Wales June 2010

So hopefully the next photo will be me in that black dress next Friday :)

Another month on :)

2010-07-04T20:57:00.000+01:00

I'm so slow at the moment in lots of things lol. Lots has been happening - too much to blog in detail so here it is in pictures.

Philippa was nominated for a sport award at her schools equivalent to 'Sport's Personality of the Year' - we had to go posh :)

Then it was her prom night and she looked fabulous :)

Then we had a weekend in France and bought just few bottles of wine for our wine rack.

And this weekend we've had a new BBQ and made twists for pudding :)

No stitching this month but I am working on my RR.

I hope to be blogging much more soon as we break up for summer in just three weeks :)

Long time no see

2010-06-07T21:37:00.000+01:00

I haven't blogged for a while - no real reason, time seems to be running away with me just lately. Anyway here's a quick update of what's been happening.

We took DS and DD tothe caravan over the half term. They took their girl/boy friends and Ruby came too lol. It was a car full but thankfully with having three bedrooms the caravan was big enough. DD's boyfriend did have to block the way to the lounge at night so he could sleep on the sofa without Ruby dive bombing him in the night hee hee. Here's a few photos:

Me and Ruby, Michael & Amii, Kieran and Philly

Philly and Kieran on the Estuary Walk

Amii and Michael at Aberwstwyth Castle

Ruby having a dig

Me and Nick having a go at Just Dance on the Wii - it was so funny.

Well that's about it - I have no more news apart from I have finished my part of Jaclyn's Round Robin - the next posting is Saturday so I'll soon have another piece to work on.

I have set myself a rotation as I don't seem to be doing much (not just stitching). Hopefully this will help:

Monday - Symmetry stitching (ornaments for my tree at church)

Tuesday - Slimming World and reading the latest book I have on the go

Wednesday - Little House Needleworks (I'm still on the Pears lol)

Thursday - Bible Study

Friday - Round Robin and blog update

Saturday - Round Robin

Sunday - whatever I fancy (and yes I know St George isn't on here but he may be the occassional Sunday)

So that's all from me for now, thanks for popping by.

London and Mardi Gras

2010-05-17T20:18:00.003+01:00

What a fabulous day we had yesterday in London! Philippa was dancing at the Royal Albert Hall in Mardi Gras. It was a long day - here's what we got up to :)

4.30 alarm :( up and ready - Philly had a whole days worth packed lunch with just a few treats. The coaches picked us up from Nuneaton Dancecentre with all the girls (and one lad) one one coach and the parents on the second. It was an early start and we did have a breakfast stop but we arrived at the Royal Albert Hall at 9am.

The dance team were spending the whole day there, rehearsing their routines, getting used to the larger stage (it was huge compared to their dance school floor - and round not square) and learning the two finale songs and dances. There were 24 dance schools taking part with most being at least 40 strong - you can image the noise and atmosphere in there all day :)

Nick and I went off round London. We walked through Hyde Park and were lucky enough to pass the Knightsbridge Barracks where the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment (HCMR) are based, and they were just leaving to parade to Buckingham Palace for the Changing of the Guard. The horses were stunning, jet black and so well groomed they shone.

We walked to Hyde Park Corner and over to The Dorchester hotel - it always looks stunning and at the moment has yellow and white window canopies which were matched to yellow and white flowers in the garden - stunning. To add to the sight were two elephants - in fact we saw lots of these around London. They are for sale by auction in aid of the Elephant Charity, so clever and such a great fundraising idea.

Nick and I carried on to the British Museum where we spent a few hours looking at the finds such as Sutton Hoo.We then walked on to Holbrn and had a lovely lunch at Cafe Rouge - I had a huge bowl of mussels, so yummy. They were very good, the food arrived at just the right moment so we had a leisurely lunch, not rushed but not left waiting. To be honest I could have sat there all day :)

More walking - this time to Doggetts Coat and Badge, our favourite pub right on the Thames next to Blackfriars Bridge. We spent a nice hour or so enjoying a bottleof wine - good job too as it was pouring down outside lol.We took the Tube back to the Albert Hall - good job as we'd walked over 5 miles already, and just as we got off the Tube my left ankle went. It's a bit painful but not too bad.

After a wonderful day things could nto get better BUT they did - we had bought tickets in the circle which is the fourth floor up. When we gave the tickets to the theatre man he asked if we were just two, and when I said yes he said would we likeot be upgraded to better seats and gae us tickets for the stalls. We went downstairs not sure what was happening,only to find ourselves right by the dance floor in Row 7. I have no idea why we got the tickets but they were perfect.

The inside was huge but the centre area was smaller than we'dimagined. It is certainly a feat when they do the Remembrance Night there. Anyway the show was the perfect endto a perfect day.Nick Greenshields was the compare and he wasso kind to all the youngsters, telling them his background and being really encouraging. He is even going to try to get a grant sorted for an 18 year old who sang for her dance group - she has a place at a top London college but has no grant so cannot go, he promised to try to find some help for her.

There were 24 danceschools - 12 in each half. Philippa's team danced 10th. There were 1700 dancers altogether and they were all on stage at theh end of Act One and again Act Two. Here are the photos:

We should have been right at the top of this picture, above the lights - yes really that high - and look where we were.

The spotlight fell just on Philippa :) but allthe team were fantastic.

And her teams' finish ....... she finished right in front of us - what a night (God moves in mysterious ways), I love this photo, she is looking straight at us with a huge smile :)

Nuneaton Dancecentre Team - aren't they fabulous :)

This is the Finale - they all danced together, all 1700 of them.

We all had a fabulous day - and arrived home about 1am. We've all had today off which I think was a good idea as Philippa has her exams soon. To everyone who was involved yesterday, the Dance School, the coach company, everyone in London, all the dancers who performed and especially to Philippa "Thank You" I had an amazing time.

Over one in Wales :)

2010-05-03T22:02:00.000+01:00

We have been to our caravan for the Bank Holiday weekend. It was surprisingly quiet, not many people around at all. The weather was good but such a cold wind. We have a long horse lead which we use to take Ruby on the beach for a run, you can see how much she enjoys it (sorry about my fashion sense lol)

On Friday I did the MS Society Cake Bake at school for the staff as it was our teacher training day. All last week I baked a few cakes each night. They looked great all laid out but they didn't last long.

Thanks to my brilliant colleagues I raised £80 - thanks everyone it was a fab day :)

Over the weekend I have done some stitching. I have taken part in the GOS Challenge #6. I did not have a varigated red thread so used a dinky dyes pink. I stitched it over one and made a scissor fob. I did not have any stuffing at the caravan so used a bit of rice lol. (sorry Blogger has turned my photo again - one day I'll work out why - I've tried everything both on the camera and the pc lol)

I don't think I've anymore news although I do have the feeling there is something I forgot.... oh yes just another photo of Ruby enjoying the garden sun - well a bone actually.

Thanks for sharing my news - happy blogging and stitching x x

Great Meet Up at Nuneaton

2010-04-24T21:15:00.000+01:00

Wow what a fabulous day - 13 of my friends joined me in Nuneaton for another Meet Up. We meet at my school in the library which is a brilliant room for stitching, so light and airy, in fact we had natural light all day, I did not put any of the lights on.

Some of my friends are staying locally in hotels, some are travelling home by train and some are driving. It's a great day and so exciting when everyoine travels over - some from quite a long way. After the Meet Up we went to a local pub and had a three course carvery, for £3.50 (yes honestly) and it's always delicious.

Here we all are busy stitching away :) and we are Kathy, Paula, Lynn, Julie, Maggie, Joyce, Hazel, Tracy, Chris, Tina, Lynn, Vicki and Angie.

This is the exchange bag I put together and Lynn won. We played a "right/left" game to swap bags which was very funny and revealed some right left problems LOL

And this is the chart I won in the exchange from Paula - thanks I love it :)

There were so many gorgeous piece sof work displayed around, this is my display which includes Lynn's RR - she was surprised when she spotted it hee hee

and finally this is the Important bookmark kit I put together for the day. It is now release for sale to raise money for my charities on Aimetu's Stitchery. With the raffle and the kits I sold I have been able to add another £40 to the charity pot - thank you everyone :)

I have had a fabulous day - I'm so looking forward to the next one in the Autumn - thank you :)

Friends, Decorating and Les Mis :)

2010-04-20T07:02:00.000+01:00

This Saturday is the meet up in Nuneaton, it is open to everyone but is mainly friends from Stitch and Stash. If anyone would like to join us you would be very welcome, any questions please email me clare@hearnden98.freeserve.co.uk. Nuneaton is in the Midlands and has a trainlink to Birmingham, Leicester and Coventry (lifts from the station are not a problem). We are also close to the M1, M6 and M69.

I love these days - we all bring finished items to look at; wip's to work on (if we stop chatting long enough); and swaps and sells.This year we are going to do the bookmark I designed as an afternoon SAL. Somepeople do stay for the weekend and after the meetup we go out for a pub meal. I am really looking forward to seeing all my stitching friends again:)

The decorating is finally finished - phew.It was a huge job, much more than I had thought. I did struggle with it, I don't think I have the strength I had before. The painting in the hall,stairs and landing was not hard but there was so much of it. The emptying of the lounge was a huge task. We have four bookcase size units that we had to empty, remove the shelves and glass doors, move into the conservatory, replace the shelves, books and ornaments and the doors. It took ages.

The new carpet does look good, we're really pleased with it - just waiting for the new sofas now. The old lounge carpet looks great on the stairs and it saved quite a bit of money reusing it. My house looks clean and tidy again - I think the ripped mucky stair carpet made everything lookdrab and because I had given up with it I was a bit light with the rest of the cleaning lol. (Ruby wanted to be in both photos, she ran to the stairs when I went to take it lol)

I was amazed to see my stitching in the top 5 in the GOS Challenge 5#. I had stitched this really quickly and the finish was not as good as I had hoped. The stitching in the challenge was amazing, well done everyone.

My own stitching is very hit and miss - I am finding I am too tired at night and drop asleep mid-stitch sometimes. I used to stitch first thing in the morning but it's not so easy now we have Ruby and I am finding my eye sight is taking a while before it's ok enough to stitch early. I am very very lucky with my MS - I still have a full time job, I am active in my life and I feel ok (not great but ok). However I am noticing how much weaker my body is becoming. The decorating was a bit of an eye opener for me, and everything seems to take me longer. I am also finding that when I've been busy I am affected by the confusion side of MS and some nights after tea I just sit and stare at the tv but I'm not really taking it in.The hardest thing is MS is an inside problem. No-one can see how I feel, how fatigued I am (it's different to being tired), how I struggle to find the words to make my speech work (quite a challenge some days when teaching - the kids just think Miss pauses a lot to make a point lol), how I look at something a few seconds before it registers. I seem to be affected by the emotional side of the condition more than visable physical problems - so outwardly I look like I am ok and am managing really well lol ---- good job I'm not a seahorse with my insides outside - I'm thinking it would look very messy :)

So carrying the emotional theme .....Les Misreables ..... I was blown away. I love thismusical, I amconvinced I was French in a previous life and all the characters in this touch me in various ways. The music is so stirring, the emotion of the characters, the actual story (Victor Hugo was certainly a great writer) and the fact that people are performing live right in front of me.

We met some of my colleagues at the station and travelled to Birmingham where we met the others (20 of us in total) for a drink before going to the matinee performance. I had put together a theatre pack for everyone - tissues, chocolate and a lolly.Some people had not seem Les Mis before and asked if it was a weepy hee hee well it is for me, two notes in and tears are rolling. I used 12 tissues in all and I think most of us had a few watery moments (or goosebumps as the chaps wouldn't possible cry now would they, wink, wink). All the performers were brilliant, Gareth Gates was amazing.

Afterwards we went to the Big Wok for a chinese buffet. There was so much food, not good for my Slimming World - which I am going back to tonight although I know I have put quite a few pounds back on. We were all tired but smiling on the train back, and we were very good and did not sing lol

Finally this is my TUSAL jar - I have no idea when it's supposed to be shown as I have not kept up with any of my other blogs - something I must do soon. My jar is growing so I must be doing some stitching lol.

That's about all my news for now, thanks for visiting, I hope everyone is enjoying the sunny weather we are having.

To everyone coming on Saturday - see you soon, I'm so looking forward to it :)

Competition - New Design - Holiday News

2010-04-11T23:10:00.000+01:00

Well I have loads toblog about tonight - but first here's a reminder aboutmy competition:

..................................................................................................................

As you know I don't stitch every night as I am so tired. I have done no stitching, or any other craft, on 27days so far this year so my question is ...

How many non-crafting days will I have by December 31st 2010?

Just add your guess to a reply to this post. All votes must be in by October 31st.

Reveal day will be January 1st 2011 and I will put together a little parcel of goodies for the winner.

...................................................................................................................

I am going to try to have a panel at the side of my blog showing everyone's entries. Just need some time to sit and play with it. Please let all your friends know - the more entries the merrier, thanks :)

My Happy Dance is very very special - whilst at the caravan I designed my first cross stitch bookmark. It's a saying that is very close to my heart. I willbe offering this as a SAL at the Nuneaton Meet Up on 24th April.

I've called it "Importance" and stitched it on 16ct Aida band using DMC 469, 602, 676 and 936.

I have nearly finished charting it up and will be offering it for sale as a chart or as a kit - released Sunday 25th April. All profits will go to my charities fund at Aimetu's Stitchery I have just given St Cadfan's Church another £25 so many thanks to everyone who has bought my charts and cards :)

Just before we went away I entered the GOS Challenge #5. I had decided Ineeded a recipe scrapbook and had a lovely hard backed book but did not like the centre piece (it just said "All about me"). I stitched the challenge design using;

Fabric = 28 count Permin(Wichelt) Linen in Prairie Grain

Floss =DMC Rayon in 33608, 30211and 30932

I spent a lovely afternoon at the caravan cutting up my cooking magazines and sticking my recipes in :) I have covered it in sticky back plastic to prevent it getting messy in the kitchen.

We had a lovely time in Wales - the weather was a little damp the first few days but soon turned to glorious sunshine. Monday was the huge street market that happens every year so church was open for tea and coffee.I did 2 hours clearing away and drying up and made a chocolate cake too. We do have a good time, lots of nattering and it's good to catch upon Welsh life. I've popped my name down for the next Bank Holiday Monday too.

We did sometravelling around - my favourite trip was to Barmouth. We park at Morfa Mawddach and walk ove rthe Barmouth Bridge - it's about a mile but the views are stunning. This is me and Ruby onthe way back.

We even managed to see the dolphins in the bay on Saturday.Unfortunately I did not get any photos of them but plenty of us watching - hee hee

They are doing a lot of work on the sea defences. It's quite nice to walk down the promenade everyday to watch them. They do make a lot of noise though, a bit like huge dinosaurs and because they work by the tide they were working through the night, bit weird hearing lots of moaning and groaning all night ;)

I made quite few goodies for the caravan - and consequencely have put on a few pounds. I'm back on track now so will soon be losing the extra. I've blogged about the food in my Fantastic Food

I think that's all for now - I'm sure I missed something but it's getting late so I will close and blog another time. Thanks for popping by to read my news :)

HD and a competition

2010-03-29T22:12:00.002+01:00

I have just finished Lynn's RR - Stitch and Stash Round Robin. Her theme is butterlies and I chose to do the lilac one - it was lovely to work on.

and this is it so far - it's off to America next for Dusty to stitch on :)

I bought a new book and have made some fab bread - you can read about it in my Food blog. I won't be making it too often as it's not good for my Slimming World - and I have not been very good lately :(

I spent today sugar soaping the hall, stairs and landing ready to paint tomorrow. It took ages as there are 8 doors, all the surroundings, skirting and bannister spindles. I managed to get the panelling on the landing done but not down the stairs so that will be my first job tomorrow. Ruby is going to the kennels for a few days so I can get it painted, the main problem with her here is leaving the bedroom doors open as she likes to sneak under the beds and pinch things - especially DD's cuddly toys.

I have my large knitting needles so might do the tension square tonight on my new cardigan - it's a free pattern from Prima. The wool is not the one to use so I'm not sure if it will work or not.

The spring flowers are just poking through in the garden, another couple of weeks and it should be full of flowers. The rest of the garden (and we don't have much) is still mud but once the other plants come through ti soon fills up.

And now for my competition

As you know I don't stitch every night as I am so tired. I have done no stitching, or any other craft, on 27days so far this year so my question is ...

How many non-crafting days will I have by December 31st 2010?

Just add your guess to a reply to this post. All votes must be in by October 31st.

Reveal day will be January 1st 2011 and I will put together a little parcel of goodies for the winner.

............................................................................................................................

Good luck and happy stitching everyone :)

Thank you :)

2010-03-22T22:11:00.000Z

I have been awarded a Sunshine Award by Elaine and Chris - thank you so much you cartainly made me smile

This award is for bloggers who inspire others with positivity and creativity.

The rules for accepting the award are:

1. Put the logo on your blog or within your post.

2. Pass the award to 12 bloggers.

3. Link the nominees within your post.

4. Let them know they received this award by commenting on their blog.

5. Share the love and link to the person from whom you received this award.

I always find it hard to choose who to nominate for awards but these bloggers inspire me in many ways and are my sunshine friends.

Julie
Karan
Barb
Hazel
Elisa
Dusty
Christine
Lesleyanne
Jan
Diana
Lynn
Kathy

Enjoy your awards - happy blogging :)

Ships, Lambs and more cards

2010-03-21T22:36:00.000Z

We have had a lovely weekend (well one night) at our caravan. The weather was a bit drizzly on the way up but by the time we had unloaded the car, put all the supplies away and cleaned through the sun was shinning. It always takes a while the first trip, as we have to restock the food cupboards and put all the bedding and linen back.

DD had lots of work to do and just wanted to sit and be quiet so DH and I took Ruby along the sea front. This year we will not be allowed on the beach as they have a major refurbishment to redo the sea defences. It is a mammoth job. At the moment they are delivering large (over 3 tonne each) bolders by sea.They were scheduling a drop at 8.30 last night so we (along with many others) went out well wrapped up and watched the boat manover right onto the shoreline and unload four containers of rock. Fantastic to watch - DH managed to get some photos.

We took this photo this morning- the piles in the foreground are the ones delivered last night - they certainly came in close to the shore.

DH and I also popped into the town - I needed to go to the stitching shop. Unfortunately there was not enough interest in the whitework course so I won't be teaching it there this year. I was disappointed but it's my hobby not a job so really it doesn'tt matter. I will still be charting it up to hopefully sell some for charts for my charities.

I also popped into the haridressers to book a manicure for DD and a facial for me - it's our treat when we go away. DH and I also decided to pop into the pub - just to make sure the beer/wine was still ok :)

On the way back to the caravan there is a field on one side of the road and there were some absolutely gorgeous lambs running around. Ruby was fasinated but didn't bark. The lambs were jumping and skitting all over the place - so cute.

It was lovely to go back to church this morning, I do miss it when we are here at home. No-one knew we were up for the weekend so they were surprised to see me - very welcoming as always. Next time we're there it's the Bank Holiday Monday so I have added my name to the tea/coffee morning rota and have promised some cakes.

Saturday night - when we got back from watching the ships - I made a few more cards. These are best wishes or new home ones,

and these are birthday ones.

It was lovely to be back in Wales, and it's only 14 sleeps until we go again.

Happy Dancing

2010-03-19T22:26:00.001Z

I have some good news all round - firstly it looks as if DS has a job :) a local care company have accepted him and he is just waiting now to do his training. He has also been asked to go to a meeting at the local hospital radio (Anker) which will hopefully lead to doing some voluntary work with them.

DD is dancing at the Royal Albert Hall in May and we now have the tickets - phew. The coach is booked and the dance school are getting excited but it will be a long day, we will not be back until after midnight and it's a Sunday. It will be so good though to watch her dance at such an amazing venue.

I have also managed to lose my 2 stone at Slimming World - I have really struggled to get the last 7 pounds off but managed to lose the last few pounds a couple of weeks ago. However since then I have been very poorly with a flu like cold and I just ate whatever as I did not have the strength to cook properly. I'm so much better now but we've had Mother's Day so I had a few chocolates, some wine and a huge meal at the chinese - oops. I think I've put somebackon but the scales will tell on Tuesday.

I have started the Fabulous Food blog to motivate me to concentrate on good healthy food, if you would like to join please email me :

I have finally finished my Travelling Stitcher - for the Travelling Stitcher SAL - mainly through being off sick which just shows everything has a silver lining. I love the colours and am hoping to make up my project bag soon with some matching fabric I bought from the Fabric Guild when I went with mum.

(why does Blogger turn some of my pictures round - they are not edited at all and are saved the correct way round on my hard drive - and it doesn't do it to all of them as you can see)

I am now working on Lynn's RR from the Stitch and Stash Round Robin. Her theme is butterflies and this is the piece so far. Lynn has plotted it all out and Tina has stitched the first one - beautiful work.

We are off to open up our caravan tomorrow. We need an early start so we can get there mid morning. The caravan will need cleaning through and of course everything will need airing especially the beds. We have just bought a new oil filled radiator which will help. It's always a mammoth shop to set it up again as we need all the usual cleaning stuff and food cupboard things like tea, coffee and sugar. Each autumn we empty it so each spring we have to fill it again, paying particular attention to the wine rack ;)

Happy stitching everyone, thank you for reading my HDs x x