Joie de Bayou

Opportunity

2011-09-20T18:28:00.002-05:00

Yummy!

2011-07-15T23:16:00.001-05:00

We just got a new Chick-fil-A -- there are drive thru lines that wrap around the store at lunch time. I am embarassed to admit that I have been in that line several times this week.

Tim Hawkins pays homage to Chick-fil-A to the tune of "Yesterday" by the Beatles -- too funny!

New Crop in the Garden

2011-06-16T09:24:00.001-05:00

This was the largest one, the smaller ones are even harder to find!

Staycation 2011 - Day 1 & 2

2011-05-30T10:24:00.004-05:00

We opted for another staycation this year. I thought I would share a few pics.

We took a trip to the Bonnet Carre' Spillway this weekend, the Spillway structure is 1 1/2 miles wide and the flow of water through the bays is amazing.

Angelo Brocato's

We brought along a picnic lunch, but made a quick stop at Angelo Brocato's for dessert. We all opted for gelato - St. Joseph Chocolate Almond for me, Pralines and Cream for DH and Sweet Cream for DS.

The Greek Festival

Another quick stop at Whole Foods

Crossing Lake Ponchatrain on the way home.

The north shore of the lake much bluer,
but you can still see the effect of the river water.

The south shore of the lake - muddy from Mississippi river
water from the Bonnet Carre' Spillway

A quick dinner of grilled pizza -
lots of veggies for DH and me
and pepperoni and cheese for DS.

Oh, did I mention another quick stop at the LNS Acadian Corner

to pick up a little fabric and my first silk threads for a new project?

Day 2 was spent attending church, lunching at Olive Garden, a quick trip to the Home Depot, adding to our vegetable garden, watching DS run through the sprinkler and having burgers with grilled garden veggies for dinner.

Rain

2011-05-27T00:20:00.000-05:00

We finally got some much needed rain.

I heard thunder this morning, so I immediately turned on the sprinkler

and considered washing my car to make sure it did not pass us by.

The early A.M. thunder left us high and dry, but we finally received

a little over one inch of rain in about an hour with an afternoon thunderstorm.

Unfortunately, this cloud did not have a silver lining, the storm spawned some tornadoes

about an hour north of us. At least 12 homes were destroyed and 4 people were injured.

We have more rain in the forecast . . .

for a week from Saturday.

Summer Vacation Has Begun!

2011-05-25T22:11:00.000-05:00

We are in our first week of summer vacation and while our summer plans are very low-key, we are very much looking forward to enjoying this summer.

I am working on a special stitching project as a gift, so I cannot post any photos of my progress, but I will be picking up a couple of WIPs later this week and will post my progress, meager though it may be.

Hurricane season starts June 1st, and we are praying for a very quiet season and that the recent devastating tornadoes are not an indicator of the season.

I have been grateful for the unusually cool Spring we have had this year, just a few weeks ago, we were dipping down into the 40s at night and experiencing highs in the upper 70s to mid 80s. The last two weeks have seen more 90 degree temps and an increase in humidity.

How ironic that we are in the middle of a drought, having received only 30% of our usual rainfall for this time of year, while, the diversion of the Mississippi River at the Bonnet Carre' and Morganza spillways are flooding some communities just hours away with up to 15 feet of water.

The opening of the Bonnet Carre' spillway has inundated Lake Ponchatrain with river water. The lake is now almost completely filled with river water, this is no small task. I think this will ruin our plans to go fishing and crabbing this summer, it will also cause an algae blooms later in the summer.

Our garden is really coming along, we will be planting our second wave of tomatoes, eggplant and squashes to stretch out our harvest. Since my first planting of chives, thyme, parsley and cilantro were a bust, I will give it another try.

Blueberries!

Genovese, Purple Opal and Sweet Basils

Our Watermelon Patch (with a broken tomato branch that DS is trying to root)

Creole Tomatoes!!

Cherry Tomatoes

Our first eggplant of the season!

There are a over dozen squash growing just this one plant.

Sweet Mint - I am tasting lots of mint tea this summer!

I am also making plans for our fall garden with broccoli, cauliflower, mirliton (chayote/vegetable pear), pumpkins, butternut squash and potatoes.

My latest WIPs

2011-05-16T08:41:00.000-05:00

Not much stitching going on, but I thought I would share what I have been turning my hand to . . .

Crookneck Squash

Creole Tomatoes

Eggplant

Also - - - watermelon, cantelope, cucumbers, zucchini, basil, parsley, cilantro, chives, sweet mint, thyme,

Holy Week - "But You Loved Me Anyway"

2011-04-22T05:00:00.004-05:00

New Stash

2011-04-20T11:16:00.003-05:00

If you have not been watching the Eastern Bluebird cam on my blog, the baby bluebirds are growing very quickly. They are now fully feathered, although you can still see the feather shaft on the wing feathers, but they are flapping their wings in the nest preparing for that first flight. They will be leaving the nest very soon.

Since DH borrowed my camera, he returned it with drained batteries, so I pulled in a substitution and used the photo function on the video camera to take these photos. It takes much better video than photos.

On a recent trip into NOLA, I made a quick stop at my favorite LNS and picked up a couple of things . . .

28ct Cashel Linen (Taupe),
28ct 100% Linen (Shell, Monet Blue & China Pearl)
and Lizzie Kate's "Forgive Quickly"

The wonderful Marian from Gumbo and Grits sent me several charts from her stash that were on my wish list. If you have not visited Marian's blog yet, check out some of her beautiful stitching.

Little House Needleworks "Heart of America"
The Sampler Girl "Fancy a Jane Day?"

The Cricket Collection
"On the First Day of Christmas", "On the Fourth Day of Christmas",
"On the Seventh Day of Christmas" and "My True Love Gave to Me"

Bent Creek "Winter Snapperland series"
"Chalet", "Sleigh Ride", "Le Rink" & "The Villa"

Little House Needleworks "Queen Bee" and "Chocolate Box" patterns

The Stitching Parlor " Mr. and Mrs. Darcy of Pemberly"
Rosewood Manor "And a Forest Grew"

Thanks Marian for your wonderfully generous gift!

I am fancying a "Jane Day", a cup of tea, a couple of Jane Austen DVDs and some beautiful linen and thread - sure does beat Calgon!

Oh, I almost forgot, I have one more stitching stash acquisition . . .

. . . sigh . . .

Hopefully these will speed up my stitching.

Media Monday #7 - Secrets Edition

2011-04-16T05:00:00.000-05:00

Masterpiece Theater - Downton Abbey I love period films and enjoyed this new series. There is no shortage of family secrets. Since the final show ended with the announcement that England was now at war with Germany, I am hoping that they have a second series to see how the lives of the Crawley family and their staff change with the coming of WWII.

Miracle in the Woods - An enjoyable "Hallmark" type movie. Two estranged sisters are at odds over their recently deceased mother's will and discover a long held family secret.

A Lesson in Secrets (8th in the Maisie Dobbs series) - I LOVE this series. Shortly after her mother's death, Maise enters service with the Rowan family. One day the bright Maisie is caught in the library, the forward thinking Lady Rowan introduces her to Maurice Blanche who becomes her mentor. Maisie balances her household duties with studies and is eventually enters Cambridge. Maisie leaves college to enlist as a nurse during WWI. After the war, she returns to complete her education and continues her mentoring relationship with Maurice, eventually becoming his assistant and a private investigator in her own right. In this eighth book, Maisie is asked by the British Secret Service to investigate St. Francis College for any activities not in the best interest of Britain. A member of staff is murdered, several others are hiding secrets and the popularity of the Nazi Socialist Party is increasing among the social elite as harbingers of the coming WWII become apparent.

This series is best read from the beginning as the backstory, challenges and changes faced my Maisie are what make this series so interesting.

Keep it Simple

2011-04-09T12:42:00.000-05:00

I found this quote on one of my favorite blogs this morning and thought I would share it with you.

2011-04-01T10:30:00.002-05:00

Busy As Can Be : Another Free Stitchery Giveaway!

2011-03-18T23:11:00.002-05:00

Check out this great giveaway at Busy as Can Be

http://thebeehivecottage.blogspot.com/2011/03/debbies-having-giveaway.html

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2011-03-17T18:20:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-02T14:56:00.002-06:00

A Great Weekend, Followed by Media Monday #7

2011-02-07T15:20:00.001-06:00

Friday

After a brutally cold, wet and dismal few days (did you know you could have snow flurries with thunder and lightining at the same time???), the sunnier and warmer weekend started off with Dinner and a Movie with my DS.

Despicable Me-atloaf

Vector Veggies

Moon Mashed Potatoes

Cinna-Minion Apples

Saturday

We attended Lady Lions Alumni Day at SLU and the ceremony retiring the jersey number of Robin Roberts. She is just as wonderfully warm in person as she is on "Good Morning America". Robin's family was there for the big event. Her sister Sally Ann is a longtime anchor for New Orleans WWL-TV and lead everyone in singing "Happy Birthday" to their mother who made 87 that day. I watched the clips on GMA this morning. DS wanted me to let you know you can catch a glimpse of us as the camera pans across the crowd.

Sunday

I finished my Mardi Gras scarf before going to Mass and just in time for the first parade of the season. The high temps just reached 60 and there was hardly a cloud in the sky. We get another cool front tomorrow returning high temperatures to the 40s with another warm up for next weekend's parades.

We came home to some wonderful slow cooker BBQ pork sandwiches with beans and cole slaw on the side topped off with a slice of king cake I picked up from Nonna Randazzo's Italian Bakery and Cafe. Though they do not use the traditional purple, green and gold decorations, their cake is yummy with maybe a little citrus peel (?) in the light, sweet dough.

On the Stitching Front

I have a huge project on my plate for the next 3 weeks, but I plan to set aside time each day to do a little stitching on my WIPs for the Flippin' January Challenge, so check back for and update. I am going to kit up some knitting for a take along project (school pick-up, etc.) so I can have them all done by Thanksgiving for Christmas presents.

Media Monday #7

Here is a little of what I have been reading, watching and listening to:

Sherlock - Season 1 - * * *

What would it be like if Sherlock Holmes lived in the 21st century instead of the 19th? It is a fresh take on Conan Doyle's most famous character.

The Courageous Heart of Irena Sendler - * * * * *

During the Nazi occupation of Poland, thousands of Jews were kept in ghettos, Irene and her collaborators placed Jewish children with Polish families. She saved 2,500 children before she was turned in to the Gestapo.

Dr. Who - Season 1 - * * *

A quirky (and sometimes creepy) sci-fi trip through time and space.

I also finished The Sandbagger's series by watching Seasons 4 and 5 (I hate cliff hanger endings at the end of a series) and I have been reading cookbooks like novels - something about the cold weather just makes me want to read about food.

Stay warm and keep stitching!

Scarves

2011-01-24T11:41:00.001-06:00

I have not done any cross stitching in about 4 weeks, but I did do some knitting before Christmas. As I promised a few weeks ago, here are the photos of the scarves I knitted. I have to say they are not too bad for a beginner. I am missing a photo of my favorite scarf, it was a wonderfully rich dark red color and soooo soft and it had a wonderful weight/thickness and felt so warm and cuddly - but I gave it away before taking a photo. It was part of a box of goodies we brought for a pre-Christmas visit to a local nursing home.

Here are the photos of that I did remember to take . . .

Wonderfully cozy in shades of red and pink.

Gotta love a tweedy gray

A vivid blend of purple, teal and blue

This is actually a beautiful icy blue.

This is a dark apple green in real life

True blue

A sneak peek of two future scarves

Media Monday #6

2011-01-24T11:05:00.008-06:00

I have not had any time to do stitching lately . . . and I am suffering withdrawal symptoms. Here is what I have been reading and watching lately . . .

Father Tim (of Mitford) and Cynthia finally make their long awaited trip to Ireland, but nothing goes as planned. Another wonderful story from Jan Karon.

DVD - A wonderful grown-up love story.

I am enjoying exploring these recipes.

Media Monday #5

2011-01-10T11:37:00.002-06:00

Knitting Board Basics: A Beginner's Guide to Using a Knitting Board with Over 30 Easy Projects

by Pat Novak

In the Green Kitchen: Techniques to Learn by Heart

by Alice Waters

The Art and Soul of Baking

by Cindy Mushet

Kneadlessly Simple: Fabulous, Fuss Free, No-Knead Breads

by Nancy Baggett

Albert's Memorial

To keep a promise to their dying friend, Harry and Frank "steal" Albert's body to bury him on the hill in Germany where the three fought side-by-side in World War II. Unprepared for the task and feeling their age in this younger and fasterpaced world, they set off across Europe in Harry's black cab. After becoming lost in France, they pick up a young German hitchhiker who helps them find their way, accept their own mortality and put to rest the ghost that has haunted them all.

King Me!

2011-01-08T01:53:00.001-06:00

It is the start of Carnival season (beginning with the celebration of Epiphany on January 6th). This will be the longest carnival season since 1943.

Want to order your own king cake? Here are links to a few of my favorite king cake bakers that ship around the country. Prices (including overnight shipping) are in the $40 - $60 range. It is expensive (at least $20 goes toward the shipping), but well worth it and a medium king cake will feed a crowd. The packages also include a little Mardi Gras lagniappe like beads, doubloons and cups.

Manny Randazzo's - https://www.randazzokingcake.com/ (my personal favorite)
Haydel's Bakery - http://www.haydelbakery.com/
Randazzo's Camelia City - http://www.kingcakes.com/
Nonna Randazzo's - http://www.nonnaskingcakes.com/
Frances Bakery - http://www.francesbakery.com/

King Cake Facts

The original king cakes were simply cinnamon laced (traditional), the additions of fruit, nuts and cream cheese fillings were introduced about 30 years ago. I prefer the traditional, but enjoy the praline and lemon (DS loves the apple). Many love the cream cheese, but it is too rich for my taste.
Early king cakes had a bean or ceramic baby/figure instead of today's plastic baby. A popular tradition, if you find the baby in your slice, you must host the next party. (Always check under your slice to check for the baby before you take your first big bite.)
In September 2010, Haydel's Bakery set the Guinness record for the world's largest king cake by building a king cake that circled the Superdome (of course it was done in black and gold sugar).
The Randazzo family bakery was a major local bakery, when the Randazzo parents passed, the children, grandchildren, cousins, etc. all opened their own competing bakeries with their "version" of the original king cake recipe. They are all very similar, but in a side by side tasting they are subtlety different - but all delicious.)

Did I whet your appetite for more New Orleans food? Planning a trip to New Orleans and want to know where to eat? Check out local food critic, Tom Fitzmorris' blog http://www.nomenu.com/joomla1/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=184&Itemid=77

Skechers Moonrock Sandals
Photo from Skechers website

Guess I will have to purchase some new toning shoes and clothes to help offset all those king cake calories. ; )

I purchased the Sketchers toning sandals last summer and they really did work - I recaptured a little of the tone in my calves, thighs and butt without any additional effort other than wearing them during my ordinary daily activity - they were also very comfortable for running errands or working at home. It gives you an extra boost even if you make no extra effort. I am planning to buy a pair of the walking shoes and begin walking with DS while he begins his cross country conditioning. I am currently researching various brands, including Reebok, Avia and New Balance.

Media Monday #4

2011-01-04T13:13:00.000-06:00

Doughnuts by Lara Ferroni - So many yummy recipes, where do I start?

Candleford to Lark Rise Season 3 - I love this series.

The Sandbaggers: Set 1 - The First Principles - An old Cold War spy series with a cast of old favorites.

Andy Williams Christmas Special - This was a wonderful opportunity to share one of my childhood Christmas memories with my DS.

The Bells of St. Mary's - What is not to love?!?! A MUST SEE!!

How to Train Your Dragon - Cute, but NOTHING like the book. In the book, the dragons and Vikings are not out to destroy each other, catching and training your own dragon is a rite of passage. Don't let the movie keep your kids from reading the book, the book is far superior.

Touch of Frost: Season 15 - The final season, I will miss it. The three alternate endings are heartbreaking.

Letters to Juliet - A light, sweet romance proving it is never too late to be the person you have always wanted to be.

Johnny Tremain - Classic Disney Americana.

A New Year's Stitching Challenge

2011-01-03T11:52:00.003-06:00

It is a brand new year. We are full to the brim of black-eyed peas and cabbage (smothered and coleslaw). Unlike the rest of the country, the holiday season is not over for us. We will be celebrating Epiphany on January 6th with the start of king cake season. The season will be long this year since Mardi Gras is not until March 8th (although parades begin the first weekend of February).

In two days, I will have completed my first year of blogging. I did not make the progress I had hoped for with my stitching (I did set my sights a little too high), but I made more progress than I have in past years and was inspired to try my hand at knitting and other creative endeavors. Thanks to all the blogging stitchers for your support, encouragement and a little case of stitching envy (but in a good motivational way).

I am looking forward to another year of stitching and sharing with all my blogging buddies.

Several other stitchers have taken on the Flip'n Crazy January Challenge to complete 15 already existing WIPs this year. I plan to join them with the seven (7) WIPs below.

Floral Initial "A"

Stoney Creek "Pear"

Fleur de Lis 2
(I do not have a posted progress photo)

"At Home with Jane Austen"
The Sampler Girl

"Home of a Needleworker, Too"
Little House Needlework

"Gingerbread Trio"

Little House Needleworks

Anyone else up for the challenge?

Merry Christmas

2010-12-23T09:00:00.003-06:00

Merry Christmas

I am sorry for being absent from the blog for a while, but my fingers have been busy:

knitting scarves (for everyone but me),
baking cookies and cakes,
homecooking (including a stash of favorite soups in the freezer),
class parties,
Cotillion ball,
decluttering and cleaning,
and doing a little Christmas bargain shopping.

I have not stopped long enough to take a picture or blog about of any of it.

(I am hoping to take a snap of some of my scarves before the go to their new homes.)

I have tried to take some time to check up on some of my favorite blogs recently to catch up on everyone's

stitching, crafting and cooking, but was overwhelmed by the sheer number of wonderful postings.

I will have to do a lot of catching up after the new year.

I will be back to stitching (and blogging) again in the new year.

Happy Thanks Giving

2010-11-23T17:45:00.002-06:00

I re-read Lincoln's Thanksgiving Proclamation two weeks ago. Reading this proclamation gives a different perspective on our celebration of this day. We are scaling back our feast, including more giving of our time, talent and treasures to our community and focusing on our many blessings.

I wish you all a wonderful day of thanks giving

(with a little turkey and cranberries on the side).

Lincoln's 1863 Thanksgiving Proclamation

The year that is drawing towards its close has been filled with blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature, that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of Almighty God. In the midst of a civil war of unequalled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign States to invite and to provoke their aggression, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere except in the theatre of military conflict; while that theatre has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union. Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defence have not arrested the plough, the shuttle, or the ship; the axe had enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well of iron and coal as the precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than heretofore. Population had steadily increased, notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege and the battlefield; and the country, rejoicing in the consciousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years with large increase of freedom.

No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy. It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and voice by the whole American People. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens. And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to his tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquility and Union.

-- Abraham Lincoln

In addition to being floored by the sentiments expressed by Lincoln in this proclamation, I am truly awed by Lincoln's use of the English language. When (and why) did we loose the ability to speak so eloquently?

Give thanks to the Lord, invoke his name; make kown among the peoples his deeds!
Psalm 105:1

Therefore, we who are receiving the unshakeable kingdom should have gratitude, with which we should offer worship pleasing to God in reverence and awe.

Hebrews 12:28

. . . and say on that day:
Give thanks to the Lord, acclaim his name;
among the nations make known his deeds,
proclaim how exalted is his name.
Sing praise to the Lord; for his glorious achievement;
let this be known throught all the earth.
Isaiah 12:4 - 5

I give thanks to my God at every remembrance of you . . .
Philippians 1:3

I will remember the deeds of the Lord;
yes, your wonders of old I will remember.
I will recite all your works; your exploits I will tell.
Your way, O God, is holy; what god is as great as our God?
You alone are the God who did wonders; among the peoples you revealed your might.
With your arm you redeemed your people.
Psalm 77:12 - 16

I thank you, Lord, with all my hear; before the gods to you I sing.
I bow low toward your holy temple; I praise your name for your fidelity and love.
For you have exalted over all your name and your promise.
Psalm 138: 1-2

Those who offer praise as a sacrifice (of thanksgiving ) honor me;
to the obedient I will show the salvation of God.
Psalm 50:23So, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, walk in him, rooted in him and built upon him and established in the faith as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.
Colossians 2:6 -7

Media Monday #3

2010-11-22T09:54:00.001-06:00

In my DVD player:

Mr. Palfrey of Westminster - The Complete Collection

Owd Bob

Island of Grace

Playing for Time

MUST SEE!!

WARNING -
Graphic depictions of life Auschwitz

On my book shelf:

Thanksgiving: A Time to Remember - Rainey

In my CD player

One, Two Buckle My Shoe - Christie (Audiobook)

Jeremy Camp - We Cry Out

Life is Good! (Photo Heavy)

2010-11-08T13:33:00.006-06:00

Sampler by Rebecca Scott, dated November 1, 1790:

Two things, the needle and the book we find,

help to accomplish all the female kind.

The shineing needle draws the fine spun thread

bedecks the person and adorns the head.

Since neatness gives the charms that all commend

The needle is the female choiest friend."

Well, my needle is my "choiest" friend this week. I have not had much time to stitch, but the small momemts I have struggled to find have been precious indeed. I have not had much time to read lately, but I have several books on the nightstand just waiting for me to make time for them.

The weather this week could not be better for stitching and reading. We have switched from higher than normal temps to lower than normal temps. We had near freezing temps for a short time during the last two nights. I hope to crank up the oven this week to do some baking.

Well my birthday present from my DH and DS has arrived, they are both so wonderful, I am very blessed to have two such wonderful and thoughtful guys.

New linen (1/8 yard each)

28 count Country French in Cappuccino

28 count Country French in Antique Gold
32 count Belfast Linen in Putty
32 count 100% Linen in Tumbleweed

Buttermilk, Cidermill Brown,
Crystal Lake, Liberty,
Old Hickory, Onyx, Rhubarb,
Schoolhouse Red, Wrought Iron,

Avocado, Blueberry, Cherry Wine,
Cranberry, Dark Chocolate,
Gold Leaf, Mulberry, Nutmeg,
Oatmeal, Peacock,
Pink Azalea, Tarnished Gold,
Tropical Ocean

New threads from The Gentle Art

from the Simply Shaker and Sampler Threads collections.

New charts

by Cherry Wood Design Studios

and

by Little House Needleworks

And best of all . . .

In addition to these lovely stitching items, DS wrote a booklet "What I Love About You" -- I will treasure this always and will keep it close at hand during those potentially troubling teen years.

My guys are wonderful!

And while he was at it,

DH added these for our upcoming anniversary.

Bean Sprout, Desert Mesquite,
Magnolia Blossom,
Manor Red, Ribbon Red

Aztec Red, Bark, Bullfrog,
Collards, Dolphin, Dried Sage,
Juniper, Liberty, Straw

More threads from

Crescent Colors

and

Weeks Dye Works

A New Chart
Annie Ellsworth Sampler (c) 2009
by Beehive Needleworks

I also was able to purchase the two JBW charts I was looking for - THANKS to Michelle for finding them for me.

It was a beautiful Sunday here in the Deep South, we attended Mass, enjoyed our local Veteran's Parade and then took my mother out for lunch on the lake. Hope you like these pics of our day.

Lunch at
Rip's on the Lake, calamari, fried crab fingers, seafood platters, grilled shrimp salad and a great view.

A great breezy day for sailing along the longest (25 miles) bridge in the world and the pelicans are enjoying the cool weather, too.

And to top it off, the Saints won against Carolina.

Hope you had a great weekend, too!

Vote

2010-11-02T14:20:00.000-05:00

UPDATED- (NO LONGER) Desperately seeking two JBW designs . . .

2010-11-01T13:23:00.005-05:00

11/04/10 UPDATE - My search is over, thanks Michelle! Additional thanks to the commenters and e-mailers who took up the search!

I have tried to purchase the following two designs from my local LNS and from an online retailer and neither could get them for me. Does anyone have these patterns in their stash that might want to sell, loan or trade?

JBW Designs - Christmas Tree Sampler
JBW Designs - Reindeer Sampler

Of Generations Past

2010-11-01T12:18:00.003-05:00

I received the "Fall Baking" chart from Joanne Thayer of Of Generations Past. I was one of the door prize winners (Amy - This one was my favorite, too).

(photo from Of Generations Past website)

I can't wait to start stitching it (and then use it as a baking to-do list!) Maybe I can share my recipes (and the maple muffin recipe from Joanne) on the blog as I complete each line.

I also have a couple of unique finishing ideas for this one.

Our second cool front did not last very long (we only used the heater for one night and then put the a/c back on the next afternoon). Looks like this one will last a little longer. Maybe I can throw open all the windows, play and Christmas CD and catch up on my ornament stitching. I have 3 LHN ornies (Pear Tree, Under the Tree, and Peppermint Twist) kitted up and ready to stitch and about a dozen ornies I would like to stitch for gifts.

DH and DS used my "need to get" thread and fabric list and my chart wish list to buy me a little something for my birthday, so I will be anxiously checking the mail box this week to see what they chose.

It's (Finally) Fall Y'all!!

2010-10-29T00:41:00.091-05:00

We usually do not get much fall color here, but this year it is so dry and hot that the few trees that do change colors have gone from green to a spotted sickly yellow and directly to crunchy brown.

But, after many consecutive days of record high temperatures, we are finally getting a little (very little) rain and we welcomed a cool front this morning -- it was 49 degrees on the way to school! I am also looking forward to the extra morning hour I will gain next week when we "fall" back for Daylight Savings Time. And all just in time for my birthday - cool weather and an extra hour in the morning, what could be better birthday present!?!

Well . . . .

maybe a little

Stash Enhancement . . .

Homespun Elegance "Holiest of Nights" and "Shabby Chic Christmas"

JBW Designs "French Country - Snow Globe" and "French Country - Love"

Brightneedle "Can You Spy?"

Stitching Update . . .

Things have been rather busy on the bayou and it is cutting into my stitching time, but I have been carrying LHN's the Gingerbread Trio with me and stitching whenever I have have a little time.

"Gingerbread Trio"

Little House Needleworks

Stiched over 2 on

using the recommended threads

(love that Spinach green)

At least I am sure to be finished by Christmas. I am trying to decide between a frame and a pillow finish -- anyone have a different finishing suggestion?

I finished another LHN ornament, I am hoping to finish two more LHN ornaments for our tree this year, but I also have some gift ornaments I ~~want~~ need to start stitching and the gifts come first.

Picture coming soon

"Merry Skater"

Little House Needleworks

stitched over 2 threads on Summer Khaki

using the recommended threads

Other stuff . . .

I have added several new charts to my destash blog for sale or trade, take a look and see if there is anything you like.

Have you been "Boo'd" yet? We were "Boo'ed" this week and a secret friend left a large pumpkin, a jar of candy corn and a pack of Wendy's Frosty coupons on our porch. In return you have to "Boo" two friends, so we made a midnight raid . . . okay, it was actually 7:30p, but it was dark . . . on two unsuspecting friends and delivered some home-baked cookies, candy and a box of Kraft Mac and Cheese with pumpkin-shaped macaroni. Since we were expecting rain that evening, we had to ring the bell and run so they would not find their soaked goodies in the morning. We will be driving by to see if they posted their "I've been "Boo'd" signs in the window. DS had so much fun, we are going to do something similar for Christmas so he is writing a little poem to let you know you have been "Kringle'd".

Here is the poem for being "Boo'd" (this poem was from a Hallmark set that came with the poem, an "I've Been Boo'd ghost and a cute little gift bag, I think they have another set at Wal-Mart this year from another company with a different poem) . . .

You’ve been Boo’d!

This sweet surprise is called a “boo”!

You’ll never know exactly who

Brought you treats and then ran off unseen

To brighten up your Halloween!

It’s twice the good luck if you go

and “boo” two other folks you know!

Pack up a ghost sign, treats and gifts,

And add a poem just like this.

Pick out a house and sneak up close.

(Make sure its windows have no ghost

that tells you clearly “We’ve been Boo’d!”

It’s best to visit someplace new.)

Knock fast on someone’s door – then run!

Make sure you’re never seen! It’s fun!

And once they get your gifts and food . . .

They’ll know for sure that

They’ve been Boo’d!

If you like this idea, but don't like the idea of ghosts, you can deliver a fall pumpkin with a sign that says "You've been punk'd!" and you can still do it in November for Thanksgiving. Maybe leave a bag off Thanksgiving Blessing Mix from Organized Christmas.

And you could use this little verse:

Being a Christian . . . is like being a pumpkin.

God picks you from the patch, brings you in, and washes off all the dirt.

Then, He scoops out all the yucky stuff,

He removes the seeds of doubt, hate and greed.

Then, He carves you a new smiling face and

puts His light inside of you to shine for all the world to see.

The Online Needlework Show is still open to view. I inserted a few links to some of my favorites, a few of the designers were new to me so I will have to add them to my designer's to watch list.

From Crabapple Hill Studios: Embroiderer's Blessing, Vintage Candy Cane Snowman, Love and Joy and Winter Wishes

From Wild Heart Designs Phebe Edwards, 1818

From Half-Moon Handwerks When Irish Eyes are Smiling

Alessandra Adelaide Needleworks (you have to see all of them!)

From Jeanette Douglas Designs Owl Love You Forever

Of Generations Past

From My Big Toe Designs - Cheaper than Therapy (too cute and so true!), Cast All Your Cares, Building Blocks, and Be Not Forgetful

From Nouveau Encore Designs - Occupation Tree - Teacher and Sports Tree (Football) - Saints

Praiseworthy Stitches - Freedom Park and Bee Keepers Cottage (from Down the Lane series) and Do Ye Good

From With My Needle - A Child's Prayer, Family Record, Family Ties and Kind and True

Have a great weekend!

I Won!

2010-10-26T13:46:00.001-05:00

I won one of the five door prizes from Joanne at Of Generations Past. She has some lovely designs. I have already chosen my design (I will share my choice when I receive the chart), but which one would you choose?

Have you seen these???

2010-10-18T18:36:00.001-05:00

I spent a little time surfing the WWW for new (to me anyway) charts and found these lovely items and thought I would share the links with you (and add them to my wish list) . . .

Acorn House Designs Elf-in-the-Box - this is way cuter than Elf on the Shelf

Anna Lee Designs - Teaching is a Work of Heart - a great teacher gift

From Cherry Wood Design Studios -

A Pumpkin Tree (there is also a Jack-o-Lantern version on the same chart) and Baby in a Manger

Giveaway at Dixie Samplar Designs

2010-10-18T13:35:00.000-05:00

http://www.dixiesamplardesigns.com/2010/10/spooktacular-halloween-giveaway-2010.html

The giveaway includes charts from Bent Creek, Little House Needleworks, Lizzie Kate and other wonderful designers.

Media Monday #2

2010-10-11T12:00:00.002-05:00

In Royal Blood, the latest in the Royal Spyness series, Lady Georgian Rannoch is representing the British royals at a wedding in Transylvania. Georgie, penniless and thirty-fourth in line to the throne, finds herself in a castle in the middle of nowhere with a bride with blood running down her chin, a poisoned guest, and herself betrothed to the loathsome brother of the bride. Just like Catherine Morland of Northanger Abbey, Georgie's imagination begins to run away with her.

The early life of Pope John Paul II, from his days as a student during the Nazi invasion of Poland, his early years as a priest during the Communist occupation of Poland, until his selection as Pope.

The fifth book in the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series finds Percy and the other heros in the midst of a battle with Kronos. The Olympians have left Olympus to fit the titan Typhon, who almost defeated them the last time he was let loose. Posiedan is fighting an underwater battle against more of Kronos' monsters and Hades is staying out of the war. Can Percy and the other heros defend Manhattan and Olympus from Kronos and his army of titans and monsters?

It's the most wonderful time of the year . . .

2010-10-07T09:04:00.000-05:00

I finally have my very own copy of the JCS 2010 Christmas Ornament issue! It was the last one. I am stitching Nicadeamus (sock monkey on blue fabric ornie on the cover) from Raise the Roof Designs for my DS. There are also a few more ornies I will be stitching as gifts for teachers, family and friends.

As a little Christmas present "from me, to me", I am stitiching "Gingerbread Trio" from Little House Needleworks.

We are enjoying some wonderful fall weather this week with temps from the mid 70s to the low 80s with overnight temps in the 60s. We haven't even had any rain in 2 weeks and it does not look like we will get any amount of rain anytime soon.

Hope you are enjoying Fall where you are

Another reason to keep stitching

2010-10-04T16:45:00.000-05:00

Thought I would share something I read today . . .

Brain maps show that the nerve ending on figertips connect with more areas of the brain than those anywhere else on the body, so by doing needlework your brain stays sharper longer by helping to increase brain mass and boosting brain circulation. (Personally, I think it boosts endorphins, too!) Keep on stitching!!!!

Media Monday #1

2010-10-04T05:00:00.011-05:00

Here is a little of what I have been watching and reading this week . . .

(FYI - It occurs to me, that it might seem that I watch a lot of DVDs, but we dropped cable two years ago, so except for about 3 prime time series, we only watch DVDs and I am usually folding laundry, washing dishes or stitching while watching. I also like to listen to audio books while doing housework, so you might see a lot of those, too.)

Book of Ruth

An account of the story of Ruth and Naomi. While obviously not a "big budget" film, the simple storyline makes for enjoyable family entertainment. There were a few production issues that took away from my enjoyment of the film, for example, in the beginning Naomi is a little too well "made-up" and her son, Mahlon, has what I think is an Alabama accent.

The Secret of Jonathan Sperry

Gavin MacCleod, of Love Boat fame, portrays Jonathan Sperry a kind-hearted grandfatherly-type who establishes a friendship with a neighborhood boy and his friends. It is a wonderful family film that highlights the friendship and forgiveness. A great film to share with your tweens.

Amish Grace

In October 2006, a gunman entered an Amish school house and shot 10 young girls, killing five. Ida Garber (Kimberly Williams-Paisley) is a fictionalized parent of one of the murdered girls. Keep your tissues handy for this inspirational story of extraordinary forgiveness.

The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan

If your tween liked the Percy Jackson series, they will also like the new Kane Chronicles series. Carter and Sadie Kane are siblings raised apart who discover they are decendants of the ancient Egyptian pharoahs on both sides of their family. This time it is the Egyptian gods who are real and like the Olympians of Percy Jackson, some are nicer than others. Carter and Sadie begin by trying to save their father from the evil Set and end up having to save the world from an even more evil force of chaos. The book is written using the voices of both Carter and Sadie, switching back and forth for each chapter. This makes it great entertainment for both boys and girls with the added bonus of learning a little about Egyptian history and myths. An extra bonus, if your child participates in Accelerated Reader this book is worth 18 points!
Note: I listened to this on audio book and the two narrarators were excellent representations of the young Carter and Sadie.

Gingerbread Cookie Murder

A short story trilogy featuring Joanne Fluke's Hannah Swensen (my favorite), Laura Levine's Jain Austen and Leslie Meier's Lucy Stone. All three are great cozy mystery reads. The short story format makes it perfect for the holiday season (if you don't mind a little murder during the joyous season).

"Gingerbread Cookie Murder" (Fluke) Hannah Swensen finds another dead body with her gingerbread cookies scattered at the crime scene. A very quick read with an easy to solve solution, but very enjoyable with a couple of yummy recipes.
"The Dangers Of Gingerbread Cookies" (Levine) Jaine Austen is spending Christmas with her parents' at the Florida retirement community they call home. The community puts on an annual Christmas play, this year's play is The Gingerbread Cookie That Saved Christmas. When the gingerbread cookie, played by retired playboy Dr. McCray, falls to his death during the play's final act, Jaine must find the killer among the residents of the community.
"Gingerbread Cookies And Gunshots" (Meier) When Lucy Stone discovers the body of Rick Juergens, whose five-year-old son Nemo disappeared, she senses foul play. Crumbs from a gingerbread cookie Lucy given to Nemo are found in the back seat of Rick's car. Lucy races against the clock to find a killer before he strikes again.

My Anniversary & Jennifer's Giveaway

2010-10-01T22:31:00.001-05:00

Hey! I just noticed that it is my 1-year blogaversary! I have "met" so many wonderful stitchers in the last 12 months. Thank you for all your wonderful comments, inspiring stitching photos, motivation and laughs.

Have you enjoyed the photos and accounts of market? So many wonderful things and such fun, Jennifer of Confessions of a Serial Starter is having a giveaway of some items she brought back from market mixed with a little of her personal stash.

The weather here is glorious -- highs in the mid to upper 80s with nights in the 60s -- FALL IS HERE!!!!!! (for the next week anyway). I anticipate spending some time outside: a family hike at our new nature trail (maybe stashing a geocache while we are there) and sitting on the yard swing with my stitching watching DH fix the stairs and cooking some yummy family meals.

I'll be back with a stitching update next week, until then hope you have a great weekend!

My last EP post

2010-09-29T17:15:00.000-05:00

Since it is the end of Emergency Preparedness month (September), this will be my last EP post. I hope no one ever needs to use any of these tips, but if you do, I hope they were helpful.

In the case of a hurricane, there is a defined season and we also have several days of advanced warning to be able to plan ahead. At the beginning of the season, I always make sure I have some extra supplies on hand. These items become hard to find just before hurricane landfall and are sometimes impossible to find after.

Bottled water (I use 5 gallon bottles with a hand pump and individual bottles.)
Disposable plates, cups and utensils - if clean water is a problem, you will not be able to wash dishes, if you are busy making repairs, you won't have time.
Bleach, paper towels and other cleaning supplies - you do not need a closet full, just make sure you have a full spare bottle -- these items fly off the shelves after the storm has passed
Garbage bags - if you can find contractor's bags keep small box handy, these are great for heavy items, like throwing out the entire contents of your refrigerator and freezer, construction trash, wet clothes, wet books, etc.
Rubber boots - you really don't want to walk in that water!
Large wash tubs or plastic boxes - makes a great outdoor washing station for salvaged items - use one for a bleach mixture and the other for clean water rinsing (if your items are especially dirty, you may want to incorporate a third tub (clean /disinfect /rinse)

Be careful - More injuries are caused during the clean-up than during a hurricane. (You would be shocked at the number of chain saw injuries following Katrina). All those commercials about power line safety - they mean it. Downed power lines can become live once the power company starts restoring service, that goes for power lines that make contact with the trees in your yard.

And finally - Watch out for "widow makers" - large branches that have been weakened or are dangling after the storm. A dead branch can hold an amazing amount of water and when it finally gives way - - lets just say I have a pot hole in my driveway. BTW, your insurance company will NOT pay to have these removed, however they will be happy to pay to remove it from your guest bedroom (in addition to the related repairs) after it falls on your house.

We have been very blessed this hurricane season, I hope Nicole is the final storm of the season.

Another Finish!

2010-09-28T14:43:00.005-05:00

I have another finish!!

"Sampling Thanksgiving"
Lizzie Kate (Quick-Its)
over 2 threads on Light Mocha Cashel linen
using recommended DMC threads
with supplied acorn charm

I am planning on stitching this one again (but probably next year) using the recommended WDW threads. I do like the design and the colors, but I think the varigated colors of the WDW threads will give it more "pop". Amazing how flat the DMC begins to look when you have been stitching with hand dyeds (mostly WDW, CC, GAST) for the last year.

DS picked a design for his room and in keeping with his new color scheme, I changed all the colors. I have to stitch it on the sly so it will be a surprise, so no pictures here until it is done. He might not read my blog, but he does pay attention to the pictures when he sees me posting.

I have a couple of designs that recommend R&R Reproductions fabrics. I have never used them and my local LNSs do not carry them. Since it will represent a significant investment, does anyone have any opinions to share on R&R Reproductions or can suggest another fabric that would be close to 18th Century Brown??

Hoffman Distributing publishes a list of new charts every Friday. Here are a few newbies that caught my eye.

Need a new ornament or want to stitch a meaningful Christmas gift . . .

"Holiest of Nights"
Homespun Elegance

For you fellow Austen-ites, here is a new Austen inspired design . . .

"Jane Bennet Wedding Sampler"
Kit & Bixby

How a about a "too cute" Halloween design . . .

"French Country Scaredy Cats"
JBW Designs

So, what do you think?

Talking Turkey

2010-09-27T14:33:00.001-05:00

Our cool front is finally here!!! Our high temps are in the upper 80s (that is fall in the Deep South).

Fall is my favorite time of year! I have already roasted a turkey breast with baked sweet potatoes. I am also gathering up my fall baking recipes (it is too hot to bake here during the summer) - pumpkin cookies, ginger cakes, etc. In anticipation, I also started stitching on a new design . . .

Sampling Thanksgiving
Lizzie Kate (Quick-It)
stiched over 2 threads on 28 count Cashel linen in Light Mocha
using 2 strands of the recommended DMC threads

It is a fun quick stitch. I think I might do it again with the recommended WDW threads to see the difference.

This gives me 3 Fall smalls with which to decorate.

I am also starting a new stitching related project that I will share later this week.

Hoping you are enjoying a cool, cinnamon scented breeze of fall.

A Grumbling Weekend Weakness

2010-09-27T10:36:00.000-05:00

A Grumbling Weekend Weakness

Welcome Fall

2010-09-22T13:25:00.001-05:00

DVD: Pie in the Sky - Series 3

2010-09-20T13:42:00.005-05:00

I love this series!

Richard Griffiths plays Detective Inspector Henry Crabbe. After 25 years on the force he is finally ready to retire and open his dream restaurant. However, life seldom goes as planned. Crabbe's superior, Assistant Chief Constable Fisher, is a self-serving, by-the-book and ambitious man who knows that Crabbe is too good to lose. Can Crabbe, with the help of his junk-food junkie, accountant wife and restaurant staff balance the needs of the restaurant and crime solving?

DVD: The Rivals of Sherlock Holmes Series 1 and 2

2010-09-20T13:33:00.006-05:00

Sherlock Holmes is the most famous of the Victorian era literary detectives. This series highlights some of the other popular literary detectives of the time. An enjoyable series.

Sweating, Sneezing, Stitching and Surfing

2010-09-20T12:24:00.003-05:00

Well, it was another hot weekend and there is a little respiratory bug here on the bayou. I am looking forward to temperatures dipping into the 80s later this week possibly paired with some much needed rain.

I put a few stitches in "Merry Skater", but not enough to post a new photograph. I did a little browsing on the net and found a little Autumn freebie (with 7 pumpkins!) which I look forward to starting later this week with Lizzie Kate's Sampling Thanksgiving.

I have been checking some of my favorite blogs using Google Reader. I like using GR because I can view more posts in less time, but I find that I leave fewer comments. Is it the same for you?

As promised, here is the design information for my mystery stitch . . .
"Woodland Snowfall" by Little House Needleworks from JCS 2004 Special Christmas Issue

I will put a few more stitches in my Fleur de Lis during tonight's Saints vs. 49ers game. I should be a good game, funny how a Super Bowl win (and mothering a budding sports fan) can cause you to develop a greater interest in football.

_________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

September is EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS Month

Tip #7: Another watertight storage solution - 5 gallon paint buckets with lids. They are inexpensive, easy to store and when filled they are easy to carry and small enough to put on a top shelf, in the attic or in the car.

Tip #6: Keep an ax in the attic..
Tip #5: Fill up your bathtub(s) with water.
Tip #4: Planning ahead for evacuation with children and pets.
Tip #3: Have a plan
Tip #2: Update your address book.
Tip #1: Use your dishwasher for watertight storage.

A Little Funny

2010-09-18T20:32:00.002-05:00

Found these on another blog today and thought I would share a laugh with you . . .

Do not argue with an idiot. He will drag you down to his level and beat you with experience.
We never really grow up, we only learn how to act in public.
The last thing I want to do is hurt you. But it's still on the list.
Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
Light travels faster than sound. This is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.
If I agreed with you, we'd both be wrong.
I thought I wanted a career, turns out I just wanted pay checks.
Whenever I fill out an application, in the part that says "If an emergency, notify:" I put "DOCTOR". What's my mother going to do?
I didn't say it was your fault, I said I was blaming you.
You do not need a parachute to skydive. You only need a parachute if you plan to skydive more than once.
I discovered I scream the same way whether I'm about to be devoured by a great white shark or if a piece of seaweed touches my foot.
There's a fine line between cuddling and holding someone down so they can't get away.
When tempted to fight fire with fire, remember that the Fire Department usually uses water.
To be sure of hitting the target, shoot first and call whatever you hit the target.
I always take life with a grain of salt, ...plus a slice of lemon...and a shot of tequila.

_________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

September is EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS Month

Tip #5: Fill up your bathtub(s) with water.

During an emergency, water may become contaminated or scarce. By filling your bathtubs with water, you will have water for sanitary purposes (cleaning, toilet flushing, etc.) and in case of a dire emergency you can boil this water for consumption. If you have a tub that does not have a good seal, you can use a little bead of caulk (do not caulk the plug into the drain). When things return to normal, you can scrap off the caulk.

Tip #6: Keep an ax in the attic.

In case flooding causes you to flee to your attic, you may need a way out through the roof or you may need a ventilation hole.

Tip #4: Planning ahead for evacuation with children and pets.
Tip #3: Have a plan
Tip #2: Update your address book.
Tip #1: Use your dishwasher for watertight storage.

My needle has been busy . . . (& EP Tip #4)

2010-09-17T10:51:00.010-05:00

I am still stitching on "At Home with Jane Austen" and am still "rebuilding" Hartfield.

"At Home with Jane Austen"

The Sampler Girl

stitched over 2 on French Country linen in Latte

using 2 strands of the recommended Crescent Colours threads

I am also still working on the Little House Needleworks 2010 Ornament series. Diane will be doing another series for 2011, can't wait to see the new designs as they are revealed each month.

"Merry Skater"

from the 2010 ornament series

Little House Needleworks

stitched over 2 on 28 count Lugana in Summer Khaki

using recommended threads

I love Fall, but with temperatures still in the 90s it does not feel like Fall is remotely close. Happily, we did get a little tease for two days this week with overnight lows in the upper 60s and low 70s and highs in the upper 80s and low 90s (yup, we consider that cooler). The cooler temps inspired me to do a little fall stitching (that and I have no Fall themed finishes), so I found this cute design in my freebie binder. I think I will finish it as a pillow, maybe with a hanger for a cabinet or door knob.

"Fall Leaves"

Designs by Kathy (a freebie from Wichelt Imports, Inc.)

Stitched over 2 on Wilchet 28 count linen in Lambswool

using Gentle Arts Simply Shaker floss in Autumn Leaves (thanks again Sue - LOVE this color!)

I was looking for another little Fall piece and found a winter design that would adapt easily to a season change. This is my first time making color changes to a design and I am really happy with it. You will notice that I left the design name and designer a MYSTERY. I thought I would be fun to see if anyone can identify the design and designer, post your guesses in the comments. I will update the post with the design information on Monday.

"Woodland Snofall"
Little House Needleworks
from JCS 2004 Special Christmas Issue

Stitched over 2 on Wilchet 28 count linen in Lambswool

using recommended threads
with the following changes

Border - Gentle Arts Simply Shaker-Autumn Leaves

Leaves - Weeks Dye Works - Autumn Leaves

Moon - DMC 676

I love the color of both of the Autumn Leaves threads. WDW is brighter and would also be perfect for a pumpkin (I love pumpkins and cannot believe I have no pumpkin charts!), while the GASS is rich with golds and browns -- these are the perfect threads for Fall stitching.

I am also stitching on my fleur de lis during Saints' games, but I do not have a photo to share.

I also acquired some new stash this week . . .

CHARTS

Little House Needleworks'
"Family Sampler", "Peppermint Twist" and "Under the Tree"

Lizzie Kate's "Sampling Thanksgiving"

THREADS

Weeks Dye Works
Scuppernong, Honeysuckle, Begonia, Americana, Hunter, Emerald, Holly and Garden Trellis
Crescent Coulours
House Wine, Antique Lace and Pea Pod

I gave my blog a Fall makeover, hope you like it. I also updated my STASH and WISH pages to include links to pictures of each design on the list.

_________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________

Did you know September is Emergency Preparedness Month?
Guess my tips are timely.

Emergency Preparedness Tip #4:
Planning ahead for evacuation with children and pets.

Tip #3: Have a plan

Tip #2: Update your address book.

Tip #1: Use your dishwasher for watertight storage.

Children

When staying at a hotel with children during an evacuation, you may not be able to use the pool, in the case of a hurricane, the winds and rain will arrive not long after you do. Power outages can follow, plan ahead and bring their favorite books (or that classic from your childhood you always planned to share), family board games or a new puzzle.
Give each child a bag (backpacks work great) to pack up their "evacuation" items (favorite toys, treasured mementos, etc.) to take with them.
Pack a flashlight or two in case of a power outage (also useful for making shadow puppets).
Pack their favorite snacks. Stores in your evacuation destination may run short on supplies like bread, milk, sandwich meats, ice etc as everyone stocks up. Bring some supplies with you, apples, grapes and carrot sticks can stay chilled in a cooler with some ham or turkey. PB&J is quick and easy (splurge on the squeeze bottle of jelly). Even, your hotel may run short of food (especially free continental breakfasts - ours did). When loading your vehicle, pack the food where it can be reached while driving in case your drive takes longer than expected.
There is nothing you can do about what might be going on back home, so just be with your family without homework, practices, laundry, etc. Having a plan (and knowing the plan of your extended family and friends) makes for less stress (we had family "missing" during Katrina).
To inject a little fun and reduce stress, we invoke "hurricane rules". I make sure I say "hurricane rules" when suggesting or implementing a new "rule" so DS knows this is not only unusual, but temporary.

DS can have Fruit Loops or another item(s) not on our usual grocery list
we might start a meal with dessert
we might let DS sleep in his clothes or let him watch a movie past his usuall bedtime
make up a new "family game" - we played an alliteration game - sentences could only use words starting with the same letter - (Does Daddy's diminutive dear desire dessert?)
Use whatever works for your family, the evacuation has already turned your kid's world topsy-turvy, might as well have fun with it. Do keep try to maintain most of your usual household rules and rituals, the stability (predictability) helps keep the kids stress level in check.

You will be tempted to watch the 24-hour coverage on cable channels -- DON'T. I am not suggesting you do not check periodically, just don't stay glued to the television. I can tell you from first-hand experience, half of what is reported is just plain wrong. You would think the out-of-town cable news channels would snag a couple of locals to confirm details about the locale, but they don't. They hear a piece of "news" and it goes directly to broadcast (accurate or not) or they just keep re-playing the same footage and information over and over.
Talk to your kids about what is happening. Be age appropriate, let their questions be your guide to how much they want (need) to know.
If your child has a school uniform, pack a uniform (or two) in your luggage (if you have the room bring along their textbooks and notebooks, too)

Pets

Keep a phone list of petfriendly hotels/motels and animal shelters or kennels that are along your evacuation routes. Sometimes, non-pet hotels will make an exception during an emergency. If you pet is clean, well-behaved and has a kennel, it is easier to convince a reluctant manager to let them stay. Don't forget to show your appreciation by not letting your pet's poop populate park-like places (sorry could not resist a little alliteration) or mark its territory in the hotel (we stayed in a room where cats had obviously "marked"- ughhhhh).
Pack their regular food, favorite toys, etc. the change in location can be stressful for them (and they can usually pick up on your stress, too.) If you have to evac your pets with a family member or a friend, remember to send a t-shirt or blanket that has your scent, it will comfort them while you are separated.
If you are staying in a private home, check with your hosts before you show up with your pets. Your hosts may be pet-friendly, but may have some restrictions (no pets on the furniture, etc.), allergies, etc so it is best to discuss all the details in advance. Also, be realistic about your pets behaviors/habits.
If you have a regular evacuation destination, check on local vets and kennels and if you pet has on-going medical needs, keep a copy of their vet records with your evacuation kit. It saves time and money if you can show them the last test results or medications prescribed by your regular vet (their office will be closed).
If you have a goldfish your child is especially attached to, an cleaned spaghetti sauce jar makes a great evacuation "module". Remember to take the cap off occasionally to let in fresh air and leave it off when you reach your destination.

Keep praying these storms continue to stay mostly over water.

Stitching At Home with Jane Austen and the Saints

2010-09-08T13:20:00.005-05:00

I am still stitching The Sampler Girl's "At Home with Jane Austen"

and I have enjoyed every stitch.

(I have not finished the "n" in Austen. I ran out of thread and am

waiting for another "spot" of Plum Paisley before I reload my needle.)

Except the stitches I missed!

I finished my first roof row 2 stitches too early.

The entire house is off by 4 threads (2 columns).

I will have to take out the entire house, picture frame and little trees.

(The key is okay, but I will double check it to be sure.)

Good thing this is such an enjoyable design to stitch.

Are you ready for some football?

Tomorrow night is the first regular season game for the Saints. The entire downtown

is going to be one big NFL amusement park:

Dave Matthews and Taylor Swift will be performing in Jackson Square,
a 7-float parade will wind its way from the French Quarter to the Dome,
the NFL set up an exhibit on the Mississippi River next to Jax Brewery and
the new Champions Square next to the Dome is hosting a party for fans without tickets.

The game will effect regular Thursday schedules for everyone:

New Orleans public schools will be releasing students early (to avoid additional traffic congestion),
downtown workers (without tickets) will be leaving the office early (same reason),
I will pull out my fleur de lis UFO from last season to finish stitching during the game(s),
DH will come home early (everyone else will want to finish up early to watch the game), and
DS will get to stay up a little past his bedtime to make it to the half-time dessert. Oddly enough he has no tests or quizzes scheduled for Friday. Coincidence????

We will be enjoying a dinner of red beans and rice, seafood gumbo, and crawfish cornbread before the game

and watch the game with frosty mugs of Barq's root beer with mini beignets at half-time.

Who Dat, Who Dat,

Who Dat say dey gonna beat dem Saints?!?!

Still at home with Jane Austen

2010-09-01T14:24:00.001-05:00

I am still stitching away on "At Home with Jane Austen" by The Sampler Girl. It is a pleasure to stitch.

I was stitching on it during cross-country practice

and I miscounted by one thread, so I had to do some frogging.

Well, we are all breathing a sigh of relief that Earl will not impact the Gulf Coast and praying that it stays as far away as possible from the East Coast. The Atlantic is pretty active and it looks like potential storms are just lining up across the tip of Africa.

Emergency Preparedness Tip #3: Have an emergency plan in place and make sure your entire family knows the plan.

Having evacuated by car a few times, I can tell you that preparation makes all the difference. Think of your morning commute, leaving 10 minutes early can make a 30 minute difference in your arrival time; did you travel by car with the kids this summer ("Are we there yet?", "He keeps touching me!", "I'm bored."), any annoyance you may have felt will be magnified 200% when you are in an emergency instead of vacation.

An emergency, such as a hurricane, gives you advance notice and you have a few days to make a plan. However, in the event of a tornado, forest fire, chemical spill (highway, railway or plant), earthquake or terrorist attack, you will have no time to plan. Your family may be scattered across town at work and school. If you do not have a plan, you may not only waste precious time, you may be putting yourselves in greater danger.

Plan what you will do if you are separated during an emergency.

Choose two places to meet:

Right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, such as a fire, earthquake or tornado
Outside your neighborhood, in case you cannot return home or are asked to evacuate

Choose an out of area emergency contact person. It may be easier to text or call long distance if local phone lines are overloaded or out of service. Everyone should have emergency contact information in writing and programmed into their cell phones. Make sure your emergency contact person knows your emergency plan.

Plan what to do if you have to evacuate

Where will you go and how will you get there - Decide where you would go and what route you would take to get there. Be aware of any evacuation plans enforced by your local government (if I wait for the mandatory evacuation to be issued, I have to take an alternate route). You may choose to go to a hotel/motel, stay with friends or relatives in a safe location or go to an evacuation shelter if necessary. You may need to make your hotel reservation days in advance to be able to stay in the location you prefer.

If you can, leave early. This is especially important if you live near a large city or if there are few travel routes from your location. Traffic will be very heavy. Would you rather leave work a half day early and arrive at your destination within 2 or 3 hours or spend 12 hours in bumper to bumper traffic going 5 - 10 miles per hour?
Drive your planned evacuation route, if it is unfamiliar to you, and plot alternate routes on your map in case roads are impassable. Do this in advance and keep a copy of the map in every family car.
Keep your tank full, in case of an emergency there will not be time to stop for gas. Keep all your other fluids (oil, radiator, etc.) topped up, as well.
Keep your car in working order, you do not want to break down during an evacuation - tow trucks may be unavailable or may take hours to reach you.
Keep an "emergency kit" in your car:

clean water for overheated radiators (do not put cold water into an overheated radiator - you will have a bigger problem)
a quart of oil (more if you tend to have oil leaks)
tape to repair broken hoses
jumper cables
a good jack
an inflated spare (have you ever tried to change you tire and found a flat spare?)

if you can change your "bicycle" spare to a full size spare, I highly recommend it

Fix-a-Flat
camera - in case of an accident, you can take photos of the scene and damage, exchange information and move on, do not hold up traffic, local law enforcement will have better things to do than respond to a "fender bender" and it could take an hour or more before they can get to you
snacks and water for the passengers
books and quiet toys for children

be prepared to turn off DVD players, a/c, CD, etc. if they are causing your car to overheat or draining your battery - driving 5 - 10 miles an hour for hours on end is hard on a car's engine

blankets
rain gear (stash a few rain ponchos from the Dollar Tree in the glove box)
if you have kids, make an emergency "potty" plan - if you have boys, an empty, large mouth jar with a tight fitting lid will do, if not, consider a potty chair or a camping toilet or a "pot" -- believe me, you will not want to pull over and they will have to go eventually
poster/cardboard and a thick marker - in case you have to abandon your car leave your name & number on the dash or if you have to make a sign (Need gas/jumper cables/ etc.) to solicit help from fellow drivers
Think of your last car trip vacation - what items were the most helpful or what do you wish you had thought to bring?

NEXT TIME: Planning ahead for kids and pets during an evacuation.

DVD: To Save a Life (2010)

2010-08-28T23:31:00.002-05:00

(Review from Amazon.com) To Save a Life is a powerful Christian film about suicide, faith, and the power of one person to make a difference in the lives of many. Set in an urban high school where the jocks are high on the popularity scale and partying is commonplace, the film opens with several striking segments that include a surprisingly uncensored look at a teen culture ripe with underage drinking, bullying, and sexuality. Jake (Randy Wayne) is a popular basketball player who's at the heart of every party, but when he witnesses a childhood friend commit suicide in the halls of their school, he begins to reflect upon how he treated his friend in recent years. As he starts to grapple with his own sense of right versus wrong and struggles to define what his duty toward others might be, he meets a youth pastor who intrigues him despite his own disinterest in religion. As Jake's relationships with his parents and his girlfriend Amy become increasingly tumultuous and confusing, Pastor Chris (Joshua Weigel) serves as someone he can talk to, and his weekly youth group becomes a safe place where he can be himself without the fear of being judged. With Chris's help, Jake sets out on a journey of transformation and personal growth that will reveal God's unconditional love and Jake's power to make a difference in the lives of others. This film is both graphic in its demonstrations of immorality and openly preachy, traits that may render it uncomfortable viewing for many, but those very traits send a powerful message to modern teens. (Ages 13 and older) --Tami Horiuchi

A Little Bit of Everything

2010-08-27T19:29:00.000-05:00

(Please excuse the bad lighting, we are having another afternoon

thunderstorm and there is not much natural light at the moment.)

Guess where I am going tomorrow?

Michael's has this great coupon and

I happen to have 3 finishes in need of framing!

70% off!! Woo Hoo!

I am still making progress on The Sampler Girl's "At Home with Jane Austen"

I also have a new start to share, I am stitching on this during cross country practice. I hope to be finished by next week (if we are not rained out)

"The Merry Skater" from the 2010 Ornament Collection
Little House Needleworks
stitching over 2 on 28 count Lugana in Summer Khaki
using 2 threads of the recommended DMC threads

The national press has descended on the Crescent City to cover the five-year anniversary of Katrina, it is Hurricane Week on the Weather Channel and I am not liking the looks of this . . .

Danielle (not a problem for us), Earl, the future Fiona and that cloudy area near the coast of Africa is a fourth system (a potential Gaston) they are watching. So much for a quiet season.

All this reminds me, that awhile back, I said I would share my hurricane/emergency prep tips with you. Well, I started writing and was overwhelmed by the amount of information. So I decided to use a tip of the day method for passing on information. I am going to start with the obscure and weird, because the basics (keep your tank full of gas, keep cash on hand, etc.) are easy to find on either of the following website links.

National Hurricane Center - Hurricane Preparedness

American Red Cross Emergency Preparedness

American Red Cross Fast Facts - tip sheets for specific types of emergencies

TIP # 1 - If you have items you cannot take with you (especially fragile items) consider placing them in the dishwasher - it keeps water in, so it will also keep water out. This is also good to remember in a case of flash flooding when you do not have the time or ability to pack things up to take with you.

TIP # 2 - Use your address book (or snag an extra notebook from your kid's school supplies) and write down all the contact information for your important contacts, for example

bank, mortgage company, insurance company, utilities, etc (including account numbers)
employer (especially important if you are not paid by direct deposit or you work in a job that will be in high demand following the emergency),
doctors, pharmacy (include a list of all your Rx medications and doses)
local police/sheriff and fire stations,
grocery (you can call before returning home to see if they are open/stocked),
schools,
church,
family and neighbors

Inquire about emergency contact information. National utilities, pharmacies, etc will still be reachable through an 800 number, but locals will also be evacuated, have lost electricity or telephone service, be severely damaged, etc.

Cell numbers may be inaccessible due to down towers or heavier than normal usage. During Katrina, voice calls were rare, it could take an hour of redialing before your call would go through. The addition of so many extra cell users (evacuees) overloaded the local cell systems. If you do not know how, learn to use the text messaging on your phone, it takes up less bandwidth. Teach your parents and other older relatives how to use the text messaging on their phone. Also, remember you can call your cellular company to change your plan to include/increase your minutes or texting limits so you are not surprised by your bill the next month.

Emergency Contact Card from the American Red Cross

Book - The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

2010-08-23T23:43:00.002-05:00

Twelve-year old Percy (Perseus) Jackson is a misfit . . . a troublemaker . . . the son of Poseidon.

Percy has been to 6 schools in 6 years. He is restless and impulsive. He has ADHD and dyslexia. But his problems are about to get much worse. Zeus and Hades are both sending their worst monsters to get back what was stolen from them, and they think Percy has it. Lots of action and adventure with the added bonus of a little taste of Greek mythology. Excellent book for 5 - 7th graders! I was throughly entertained and it left me wanting more.

I have not seen the movie (they are never as good as the book), but will borrow it from the library sometime in the future and will update this post.

UPDATE - After watching the movie, I recommend you read the book first. The movie is a poor representation of the book, your two hours would be better spent reading the book.

No Sweat

2010-08-23T22:32:00.001-05:00

Woo Hoo!!!!
A thunderstorm rolled in and began raining
2 minutes into cross-country practice.

DS wasn't too disappointed since he has two tests tomorrow

and no practice meant extra study time (and no stitching time for me.)

Even Bourbon Street empties for a thunderstorm.

We are almost to the height of hurricane season (September 10th). The anniversaries of many of our major hurricanes (Camille, Betsy, Katrina, etc.) will be during the next 4 - 6 weeks. I will be saying extra prayers that the experts are wrong and this will be yet another quiet season.

DID YOU KNOW . . . today is the feast day of St. Rose of Lima, patron saint of needleworkers. She sold her needlework (lace and embroidery) to support her family and the sick and hungry she took into her home.

“Apart from the cross there is no other ladder by which we may get to heaven.”

St. Rose of Lima

To celebrate, I will be putting a few more stitches in "At Home with Jane Austen" and choosing a design to stitch for an upcoming charity auction.

I am not sure of the SOP for donating a stitched item for auction. I may have to give the chart away with the stitched piece. I guess I can contact the designer and ask.

There's No Place Like Home

2010-08-23T09:51:00.003-05:00

I have another finish!

"Winter Sheep" (2010 Ornament series)

Little House Needleworks

stitched over 2 on French Country Linen in Cafe Mocha

using 2 threads of the recommended DMC threads

And I have been anxious to make a new start, so I spent a little time last night on this.

"At Home with Jane Austen"

The Sampler Girl

stitched over 2 on French Country linen in Latte

using 2 strands of the recommended Crescent Colours threads

It is not my usual color palette, but I love these bright happy colors! It has been a fun and easy stitch so far.

Not looking forward to this afternoon. The expected heat index for today is between 110 and 115 and today is the first day of cross-country practice for DS. We are under heat advisories from 9am - 10pm all week. I will be wishing I could stay home. I try to find a shady spot (there are not many) where I can stitch and watch practice. It is amazing to see how far these kids can run, especially in this heat. Last year, DS came in from the first practice plopped down on his bed (despite my urging to shower first - ewww!) and fell asleep for 3 hours. (He has a big test tomorrow, so I hope he doesn't take another long nap.)

Ten minutes into practice, I will be wishing I had stayed home. And when I get home, I will probably head straight for the shower. Fortunately, I will have the red beans in the crock pot so I will only have to make rice and turn on the oven (ughhh!) to bake the corn bread and then pop the sausage under the broiler.

Maybe I should change this design to "There's nothing like staying home in the a/c." Do you think Tanya would mind?

Hoping it is cooler where you are!

DVD: Invictus (2009)

2010-08-18T11:57:00.002-05:00

After being elected President of the Republic of South Africa, Nelson Mandela uses the Springbok rugby team as a tool for uniting the country.

If you liked this movie, check out the movie "End Game".

Another Finish

2010-08-18T11:47:00.003-05:00

I am in the mood to wrap up loose ends, maybe it is the start of the new school year, maybe it is being in the middle of hurricane season and not being as ready as I had planned. So I am trying to finish up a few WIPs.

Pardon the bad light, we have skies full of white clouds with peeks of blue and five minutes later, the sky turns dark grey and ominous preceding another daily thunderstorms. Dontcha just love it when a tropical system boomerangs and comes back for 2 weeks in a row!?!

"Dogs Leave Paw Prints"

Lizzie Kate

Proceeds from this design are donated to the Kansas Humane Society
Stitched on 30 count Weeks Dye Works Cappuccino linen

over 2 threads using 2 strands of recommended Weeks Dye Works threads

I still have to add the silver dog bone charm under the dog house. I will check the local bead shop and Hobby Lobby to see if they have something that will work. If not, I will have to wait until my next trip to the LNS in October.

OOPS! I just realized while looking a the photo that I missed a line of green under your. I will post another picture when I have framed or otherwise finished this piece so you can see it with the green. It just started thundering -- AGAIN -- and I want to get off the computer. Besides, I feel like doing a little baking again today -- I'm thinking cookies!

Another Finish!

2010-08-17T20:44:00.002-05:00

I finally finished "Season of Love" by CCN.

It is a pillow finish with a deep green fabric backing with holly designs.

"Season of Love"

Country Cottage Designs

(from 2010 JCS Ornament Preview issue)

stitched over 2 threads

on an unknow piece of ivory/off-white linen

using the recommended GAST and DMC threads

I will be posting a new start (or restart of a WIP) soon.

It was outrageously hot today with a heat index of 100 (temperature is 95, but with humidity it feels like 100), but I turned on the oven anyway to make these German chocolate cupcake.

(Did You Know - German chocolate has nothing to do with the country. It was developed by Samuel German of Baker's Chocolates.)

I will post this semi-homemade recipe on my cooking blog Joie of Cooking.

BOOK: Looking for Alaska by Peter Jenkins

2010-08-16T16:49:00.003-05:00

Looking for Alaska by Peter Jenkins

Isn't she lovely . . .

2010-08-11T13:42:00.005-05:00

I received my first RAK in the form a this beautiful biscornu
from Patty at Hanging on by a Thread

Isn't it gorgeous! And it matches my stitching bag.

It is hard to see in the photo, but Patty beaded the seams with the tiniest red beads.

I love the color, the design . . . I love everything about it.

It is absolutely wonderful.

It really made my day today, it is so dreary and humid
from the incoming tropical depression
that I needed a little sunshine from a random act of kindness today.

A k-new finish

2010-08-10T12:31:00.001-05:00

My first attempt at knitting!

It is not perfect, I did have some trouble with the brim stitches and I actually think I have the hat upside down because I closed the wrong end, but I really enjoyed doing it. I used one of those round looms and it came together really quickly. It only took one episode of Miss Marple and about 15 minutes this morning to finish it off. After seeing the stitches come together on the loom, I think I will have a better grasp of needle knitting/crocheting. I hope to try my hand at those in the future. My goal is to make a few hats and scarves so the round loom will work great for now.

I am so full of ideas for projects at the moment -

thanks to all you crafty bloggers who have provided the inspiration!

I have gone through all my crafting materials and thrown out the dried out paints and markers, passed on the materials I do plan to use and organized what is left. I gave my sewing machine and Cricut semi-permanent homes so I can use them more easily.

DS has picked a few projects he would like to do and will be

making handmade Christmas gifts for all his grandparents.

I have also been doing some sewing,

no finishes to show yet, but soon!

I am hoping to finish CCN's "Season of Love" by the end of the week.

I like the flat finish and have some cording to use on the edge,

but I cannot cut a straight line on cardboard or foam-core.

Any one have any tips? or suggestions for another type of finish?

It is the first week of school here so I will have some stitching time

during afternoon pick-up and should be getting back into a regular routine

(which totally fell to the wayside this summer).

WEIRD or WONDERFUL??

The fluorescent tube lights in the kitchen have burned out.

They have been in use for 10 years!

Is that normal?

Hope you are enjoying the rest of your summer!

The Virginia House: Giveaway Time Has Come Again!

2010-08-09T11:38:00.001-05:00

The Virginia House: Giveaway Time Has Come Again!

Check out this cute keychain fob giveaway.

A Winner and a Heat Wave

2010-08-02T11:25:00.004-05:00

Sorry for the delay in posting my giveaway winner, we spent the weekend on our "honey do" list and I was too tired to even think about the blog. While cleaning out my crafting stash, I found a few items to add to the giveaway.

GIVEAWAY
Okay, everyone in the pool!

The tension mounts . . . (thanks to DS for drawing)

. . . and the winner is . . .

Congratulations Mary of Stitches and More!

Mary, please e-mail your snail mail address to me at

joiedebayou@gmail.com so you can recieve your goodies.

STITCHING

Since we spent the entire weekend on the "honey do" list, I did not get any new stitching done. Here is an update on "Season of Love" by CCN. I messed up on this one, but I am not going to fix it. Can you find it?

WEATHER

We will be watching the Gulf this week to see if Tropical Depression 4 will impact the first week of school. DS is hoping for a hurricane day to extend his summer. (Can you believe school starts next week?) We still have 119 days left to hurricane season, so I am hoping the busy year predictions are wrong.

We are having record temps this week. The heat index (temp plus humidity) has been in the 110 - 115 degree range with heat advisories lasting until 8pm. Yesterday was the hottest day so far this summer. A/C repairmen are working non-stop, we are breaking record temps daily and under nearly constant heat advisories -- IT IS HOT! We usually don't see any real fall-like temperatures until November. It is going to be a long August (and September and October).

Hope you are having cooler temperatures and enjoying what remains of the summer.

Looking to add to your stash, check out my stash swap blog.

Dinner and a Movie on de Bayou and a Post from DS

2010-07-29T22:03:00.004-05:00

Movie

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs

Dinner

Light as a Cloud Meatballs and Steve-ghetti

Over-Mutated Garlic Bread

Ice Cream Snowball! (Blue Bell Happy Tracks)

DS wanted to share one of his Lego creations

Star Wars - Jabba's Palace

Notice the black trap door that sends unsuspecting minifigures into the pit.

Caught a snap of the Blue Dog who popped up shortly after the BP Oil Spill

(Don't ya'll love our above ground power lines)

Busy, Busy, Busy . . .

2010-07-29T16:56:00.002-05:00

Took a trip to Hancock Fabrics today, the McCall's patterns were 99 cents. I also picked up some fabrics for a couple of Christmas presents (I'll show you when they are done) and some fabrics pictured below for DS's room "redo" (he chose lime and neon orange).

I am cleaning out the office/hobby room and reorganizing it so I can set up a semi-permanent sewing space.

I did a little stitching on "Season of Love".

Since this is our last full week of summer, I have been focusing on trying to finish the closet cleaning, organizing and setting up for the school year. I will have plenty of time for stitching after school starts on the 9th.

The oil spill situation has improved and the Atlantic is quiet -- it is good news all around.

Gotta go, DH needs help hanging curtain rods. After that, I have to start dinner for our family movie night, we are watching "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs".

Tomorrow is the last day for my giveaway.

DVD: Hetty Wainthropp Investigates

2010-07-24T23:08:00.003-05:00

A great cozy mystery for British mystery buffs. Hetty has just reached a milestone, her 60th birthday, but she has no intention of growing old gracefully. "I'm not 60 and I never will be," Hetty proclaims. "I'm not a senior citizen."

Hetty takes a job at the post office, where she meets a young shoplifter. Hetty becomes involved in a mystery at the post office. She ultimately decides her talents are being wasted and opens her own detective agency, taking Geoffery, the shoplifter, under her wing as an assistant.

As one police inspector grudgingly admits, "She's an extraordinary woman. She's no Miss Marple, but….".

Well paced for stitching.

"CHRISTMAS IN JULY" GIVEAWAY

2010-07-24T06:00:00.003-05:00

It has been so hot this summer and I am trying to think cool thoughts,

so I decided it is time for a little Christmas in July.

To celebrate my 100th post and acquiring 50 friendly followers,
I am having another giveaway!

Six months ago, I found the stitching blogosphere
and discovered
so many wonderful stitchers from across the globe
that share their projects, tips and inspiration (as well as a little of their lives and loves).

You are such a friendly, cheerful, generous and creative group.

I am endlessly inspired by your blogs.

In the last 6 months, I have been the thankful winner of a few giveaways,
so it is time to pay it forward with my second giveaway.

I already have some threads, a kitted design, and some fabric
and I have a few more little treats and treasures to add.

The winner will be selected on Saturday, July 31st.

TO ENTER

If you are interested, leave a comment on this post.

If you are a follower, leave a second comment for a second entry.

If you post the giveaway on your blog, leave a third comment for a third entry.

Make sure I can access your e-mail on your profile or please include it in your comment.

(Winner selected by random number drawing.)

New Stash and My 100th Post

2010-07-23T21:39:00.002-05:00

Doing school shoe shopping (oh joy) put me near my LNSs. I picked up a little something in each, just doing my bit to support the local economy ; )

From Acadian Corner - threads and fabric (28 count Country French Linen in Latte) for The Sampler Girl's "At Home with Jane Austen"

From Accents, Inc - a new chart - "French Country Fleur-de-Lis" by JBW Designs - I have some definite ideas for this little beauty.

BTW, the models for this chart were stitched by the customers of Accent's, Inc.

In between stops, we stopped for lunch at Byblos (Lebanese) - budget busting, but yummy. I will have to dedicate a weekend to making homemade kibby and meat/spinach pies to stock the freezer! (I will be sure to put it on my cooking blog, they are really delicious.)

Did some in-the-car stitching on "Season of Love" since DH had the day off and did the driving. Lots of bumpy roads in these parts, so not alot of progress, but at least I did not stick my finger with the needle.

Stitching this is giving me a craving for some ginger-y baked goods, maybe the rain from Bonnie will cool the temperatures enough to do some baking this weekend, but first, we will be battening down the hatches and trying to cut the grass before the winds and rain begin. Hoping Bonnie keeps moving quickly so she does not have time to strengthen over the warm Gulf waters or dump too much rain in one place.

This was my 100th post, so check back tomorrow for my giveaway.

Cook Book: Mediterranean Clay Pot Cooking by Paula Wolfert

2010-07-22T14:09:00.003-05:00

I picked this book up at the library this week, I love one pot cooking. Since I do not have any clay pots, I will be adapting some recipes for my enameled cast iron and glass bakeware. Wolfert insists that the dishes taste better cooked in clay, and I believe her because I feel the same about my favorite cast iron skillet. These vessels absorb the flavors of the foods you cook and this "seasoning" enhances the flavor of all dishes cooked in the vessel.

I wish there were more photos of finished dishes, but the included photos all have the wonderfully warm and rustic feel of the cover photo and filled my head with possibilities. The recipes lend themselves to easy variations to accomodate personal tastes.

This was a good idea book for me, and I will be trying a few of these recipies on my cooking blog soon - in fact, I have eggplant and tomatoes in the kitchen now just begging to be turned into a little Musakka/Moussaka/Mussak'a . . . gotta go!

Check my cooking blog later this week to see the results.

Book: A Catered Christmas by Isis Crawford

2010-07-22T00:30:00.003-05:00

A Catered Christmas (3rd in the series)

By Isis Crawford

Libby and Bernie are "volunteered" to participate in a televised cooking competition when the not so charming hostess killed by an exploding oven.

Can the sisters unmask the murderer, win the competition and keep up with the Christmas baking and catering for their bakery?

Cute culinary mystery.

DVD: Keeping Up Appearances - Series 1

2010-07-22T00:12:00.003-05:00

Keeping Up Appearances: My Way or the Hyacinth Way

Who doesn't know a Hyacinth Bucket (pronounced "Bouquet," if you please). Hyacinth is a nosey neighbor, busy body and aspiring social climber.

Book: A Colourful Death by Carola Dunn

2010-07-22T00:01:00.003-05:00

A Colourful Death
If you love Mrs. Pollifax and Miss Marple, you will enjoy meeting Eleanor Trewynn. After a life spent travelling around the world as a missionary, recently widowed Eleanor retires to a small Cornish village of Port Mabyn. However, murder once again disrupts her quiet life over the LonStar thrift shop. Eleanor and her Westie, Teazle, must try to prove artist neighbor Nick Gresham's innocence when he is suspected of murdering a rival artist, Geoffrey Monmouth. There is no shortage of interesting suspects and colorful locations. A great cozy mystery!

Prior book in the series:
Manna from Hades (2009)

A Giveaway, A New Start and A Gift

2010-07-21T22:59:00.008-05:00

Lots of quick updates today . . .

GIVEAWAY
at 52 Flea to celebrate Laura's 500th post, if you love all things vintage you will love 52 Flea.

STITCHING UPDATE
I started my first ornament from the 2010 JCS Ornament Preview issue, "Season of Love" by Nikki Leeman of Country Cottage Needleworks {Thanks for the correction, Patty : ) }

I am stitching this charming little gingerbread couple as a gift for a friend who gave me my new stitching bag. It is so cheerful and I filled it with stitching goodies for me to take my stitching "on the road". It will be the second thing I grab (photos are first) if we have an evacu-cation this hurricane season.

OIL SPILL UPDATE

The winds and waves keep the oil on the move, the spread is much larger than my update from last week. It has also moved closer to the coast -- I do not think this will ever end!

HURRICANE SEASON UPDATE

Well looks like Tropical Depression # 3 (Bonnie if she becomes a TS or hurricane) is going to give us a rainy weekend and put a stop to oil spill clean-up.

Look what was waiting in the mailbox . . .

2010-07-17T18:16:00.004-05:00

I won Stitchin' Sweet Sue's giveaway and her package of goodies arrived today.

(isn't that floss tag too cute!)

Look at everything all nestled in their little bag.

But oh how wonderful! It almost feels like Fall has arrived

(especially since I just turned down the a/c another notch).

ONE beautifully handcrafted pinkeep,

TWO samples of Glove in a Bottle

(and it could not come at a better time, our dishwasher is involved in a recall (fire hazard)

and they do not come to fix it until Monday so I have been doing alot of handwashing with both DH & DS at home) THREE lovely finishing fabrics

and . . .

EIGHT beautiful threads!

(WDW Pecan, Amber, Caper, Havana, Oak, & Brick

and GAST - Autumn Leaves & Heirloom Gold)

It is overcast here, so the colors are off in my photos (and I had to use my alternate camera with no flash).

Sue's giveaway photo is much better than mine.

If you haven't found her blog yet, stop by for a visit http://stitchinsweetsue.blogspot.com/

Thank you so much, Sue!!

Stitching Update:

I am struggling with my stitching lately, it is a combination of very rough hands (from all that handwashing), having both DH and DS home, and the heat. But the dishwasher will be fixed on Monday, DH's vacation is also over on Monday and DS goes back to school in 2 weeks. Wish the heat was going away soon, too. Hoping to post a better stitching update with photos soon.

Oil Spill Update

2010-07-17T16:02:00.004-05:00

Book: Stork Raving Mad by Donna Andrews

2010-07-17T15:36:00.003-05:00

In the eleventh book in this laugh-out-loud series, Meg is due to give birth to twins any day and, as usual, is surrounded by chaos. It is early December and the heat has gone out at Caerphilly College. Her husband, drama professor, Michael has brought home two dozen assorted drama students who are camped all over the house, in addition to some computer student interns moved into the basement by her brother.

Drama student Ramon Soto is holding rehersals for his play for his doctoral thesis, until one very nasty college administrator, Dr. Jean Wright shows up. When Wright turns up dead, Meg is caught in the middle (between naps and trips to the bathroom). There is no shortage of suspects or motives, can Meg solve the mystery before going into labor?

Although not the funniest book in the series, it was still a fun, light, well written mystery full of wonderfully colorful characters that kept me guessing until the end (which is usually hard to do). I recommend reading the books in this series in order so you get to know Meg's family wonderfully eccentric family and follow her relationship with, now husband, Michael. This is a great series that has actually had me laughing out loud while reading (also hard to do).

Other books in the Meg Langslow Mysteries series:
Murder with Peacocks (1st)
Murder with Puffins (2nd)
We'll Always Have Parrots
Revenge of the Wrought Iron Flamingos
Crouching Buzzard, Leaping Loon
Owls Well That Ends Well
No Nest for the Wicket
Six Geese-a-Slaying
Cockatiels at Seven
Swan for the Money (10th)

It is Just Too Hot to Stitch

2010-07-10T14:07:00.001-05:00

But, I have started putting together a few items for an upcoming giveaway.

Not much stitching to report, I am making slow progress on LHN's Winter Sheep from the 2010 ornament series. And in case you have not heard, Diane Williams announced we can expect a 2011 series!

I am stitching an ornament for some married friends,

I wanted to put our initials on the back, whose go first, the giver or the reciever?

I am going to use the husband's first initial, then the surname initial and the wife's first initial.

W T S

2010

R D B

Well, DH is outside "playing" with his new toy. I got to try it and WOW! Our old electric pressure washer had nothing on this one. DH hit a gap in the front door and water flew in and went 8 feet from the door!

Looking forward to going for snoballs after he is finished!

Hope you are having a great weekend!

Is There a Doctor in the House?

2010-07-10T13:53:00.002-05:00

Doc Martin (Series 1 - 4)

Just finished watching series 4 in this quirky series.

Surly, tactless and uptight, Dr. Martin Ellingham is at the top of his field as a vascular surgeon, until he develops hemophobia - the fear of blood. Now he has taken a position as the GP in a village in Cornwall. As a diagnostician, you could not ask for better, but his bed side manner leave much to be desired. Fortunately for him, he is the only doctor in town, so his waiting room is always full of the wonderfully quirky village residents. This show is filmed in a beautiful location with deep blue sea, narrow winding streets lined with stone cottages and a backdrop of a rocky and amazingly green countryside.

Each series has been just as good as the last and just when you think Doc Martin might begin to show a little compassionate bedside manner, he lets loose with another blunt, thoughtless and rude remark. Think of Becker meets House meets Northern Exposure with a touch of Monk.

Wonderful stitching DVD since you can concentrate on your stitching during brief graphic medical scenes if you have a touch of hemophobia yourself.

WARNING: May not be for family viewing due to occasional nudity and language. Apparently, British television standards differ from U.S. (although we seem to be not far behind in some areas and leading the way in others - sigh).

Guess what my hubby brought home . . .

2010-07-09T14:35:00.003-05:00

the Christmas ornament preview issue of Just Cross Stitch . . . he has been listening. I could not find it anywhere so he went to a book store an hour away and it was their last copy! Love you!!!

I love the coordinating gingerbread designs from LHN and CCN and the fleur-de-lis in 'Tis Green by La-D-Da.

Guess I better get my subscription in so I can receive the ornament issue. I want to order a few of the old Christmas ornament issues, too. I have 2004 and 2009 ornament issues, but not the previews.

Our temps are in the upper 90s with a heat index of 108, hoping it is cooler where you are. Keep cool and keep stitching!

The Big Four: A Hercule Poirot Novel by Agatha Christie

2010-07-09T13:58:00.004-05:00

Just finished this one today. I think it is one of my favorite Poirot stories. Lots of twists and cliff hangers, a quick and enjoyable read.

Hercule Poirot matches wits against the very powerful "Big Four". These four criminal masterminds have joined forces and have big plans (read: world domination). This is international intrique is not the typical Christie murder mystery. Poirot may have finally met his match and becomes desperate enough to call on his equally clever, but lazy, twin brother Achille. This is a fight to the death.

I would love to see this made into an episode for Masterpiece Mystery.
Find this book on Amazon.com

DVD: Mother Teresa

2010-07-07T15:55:00.002-05:00

I watched this movie with my DS last night and thought he would fall asleep during the movie since it was past his bedtime, but he not only stayed wide awake, but fully engaged in the movie. After the movie, he was full of questions. We will be reading The Simple Path and Come Be My Light, both written by Mother Teresa between now and the start of school (just 31 days away). The movie begins with Mother Teresa already in India as a teacher in a convent school, after 20 years in India she receives a calling to a new vocation to help the poor and petitions Rome for the creation of a new congregation, The Missionaries of Charity. She was fully aware that the work she did was only "a drop in the bucket", but she dedicated herself to her vocation completely. Her unfaltering faith in the provision of God is awe inspiring. She left the comfort of the convent to live with the "poorest of the poor": the sick and dying, the lost and the lepers. She lived for today and had faith that God would provide for tomorrow. Her strength and simplicity is inspirational to all, whatever your belief system.

"At the end of our lives, we will not be judged by how many diplomas we have received, how much money we have made or how many great things we have done.

We will be judged by

‘I was hungry and you gave me to eat.

I was naked and you clothed me.

I was homeless and you took me in.'

Hungry not only for bread-but hungry for love.

Naked not only for clothing-but naked of human dignity and respect.

Homeless not only for want of a room of bricks-but homeless because of rejection.

This is Christ in distressing disguise."

HIGHLY recommended!