Raggedystitchers Blog

Valentine Sampler

2012-01-30T20:50:00.001-05:00

My most recent finish is something I stitched for my dear husband.
This is "Valentine Sampler" designed by The Goode Huswife.
I used DMC threads on 28 count evenweave.
I may frame this ..if I can find a frame suitable in size for it (I like to frame things myself..saves so much money!)
So glad I was able to get this done in time for him.

I may be winding floss the rest of the night to kit up "Roots and Wings"..I hope to start on that chart soon...but I still have so many other projects in the works. I may start a rotation soon so they all don't get neglected!

:)
Sweet Dreams tonight,
Louise

Sweet Bunny Sampler Freebie

2012-01-27T19:21:00.001-05:00

Everyone knows how much I love bunnies...well..while searching around the internet, I found a really cute bunny sampler freebie design!
Click the link and it will take you to a wonderful blog called "Feathers in the Nest"...once there, scroll down, and you will see the cute free cross stitch chart of a little bunny! I am so ready for Spring to arrive..how about you? :)

CLICK HERE!

Hope you like this sweet little bunny chart as much as I do!

Doctor Visit, Stash

2012-01-25T19:50:00.000-05:00

Well, I had my neurologist appointment today...
I told the doctor, since I have been eating well, exercising, not drinking diet sodas anymore (only drinking water or clear tea) no substitute sugars, lost 30 pounds...I have not had a migraine in a month and a half now!
He did say that some people have "triggers" and that can set off migraines. Well..two nights ago, I was really craving a sweet cup of hot tea. My husband made me a cup with two Splenda sweeteners in it. Well...the next day I had a headache..not a migraine..but a headache, that lasted into today..I had that nagging headache all day today.
Now, I was a BIG time Splenda user, and was faithful to drinking my diet colas (could drink a 2 liter bottle of Pepsi Max) every day. Yes, I am serious. Well...the doctor thinks that perhaps the substitute sugars could be setting me off.
Yes, I do feel that I am getting a little bit bored with the diet I have been on..and I am trying to find ways to mix it up a little bit.
I am going to do some further research..but have been handed a list of "don't eat" foods from the doctor which is making it all the harder.
He says though I am on the right track.
He also said that stress can trigger migraines. He told me I have to try to calm any stress that came my way. Now...how is a Mom supposed to do that?? I wonder.....
Our family is in for some big changes in the next couple of months, and unless I ignore what is about to happen, HA! well, that isn't going to happen....I guess, I will grin and bare it all. I will make things happen in a positive way, and I know that God will get me through everything that our family will be needing to get through soon.
It will be very exciting things to come...I will tell you all soon..but just can't yet! :)
It is all good and happy things though...
but in the midst of all the new things happening, will be all the feelings of letting our son leave the nest also for the military.
Sooo...My mind swirls with so many thoughts and so many things to think about.
I have to try and stay calm, relax and enjoy each and every moment in this time for now.
The doctor said to keep a food diary (which I am doing)..and when I do get a headache, migraine, or just plain ole' headache, to think of what I had eaten previously, maybe I can figure out what a trigger might be for me...

Guess what?!!!!
It just happened that the cross stitch shop was right across the street from the doctors office! Ha! What do you know......
Here is what I came home with! lol

Sampler of the Season "Autumn" With thy Needle & Thread

"Singing the Blues" Little House Needleworks

Crescent Colors Tartan Plaid, Cupid

The Gentle Art Oatmeal

Soooo...going to the doctor today, well, it really wasn't so bad a trip after all!
I just finished baking a homemade coffee cake for new neighbors that moved in around the block...time to make the glaze, and quickly run it over to their house to surprise them before the night gets too late!

have a nice night everyone,
Louise

Very Bradley Purse, Vintage Jewelry Finds

2012-01-24T20:07:00.000-05:00

I was out and about today, needed to pick up some more avocados for me and my son. We are totally addicted to them! They are so delicious!! I met one of my neighbors in the store, we chatted up a bit, then headed on my way to pick my daughter up from school for an appointment she had to make. Before leaving the shopping center..I couldn't help myself..I HAD to stop at my favorite second hand shop! It is called "Plato's Closet" :)
I am so glad I did...I like old time looking jewelry..and although most of the jewelry that I find there is costume like jewelry..it is more modern..but sometimes, you can get very lucky, like I did today! YAY! :)

This is what I found....

First a bracelet..very pretty, with stones in it..It is goldtone and has pretty flowers between the stones. It was only three dollars..when I got home..the clasp did not work..but my sweet husband fixed it. He is so wonderful!

The next piece of jewelry was a real FIND! I didn't even come to know it fully until I had gotten home.
I liked the colors in the stones, purple and turquoise, sort of hard to tell in the pictures..but oh so pretty! This piece is a necklace. When I had come home I looked at it more closely..the little metal tag reads "NAPIER"..this is a very nice piece of costume jewelry from a company no longer in existence! I have a piece of history! The mark "Napier" in block has been used since 1922 until its sale in the late 1980's to another company. When the company was sold in the late 1980's to "Victoria & Co.", they used the name "Napier" but in script, not in block writing on the jewelry. The Napier company was closed by Victoria & Co. in October of 1999.
Here is my find, my piece of "NAPIER" jewelry with it's original "block" style writing on the tag..I have a vintage piece..and would you believe what it cost? FOUR Dollars!!! :) (if you click on the photo, it will enlarge and you can see the Napier tag with block style writing)

As you browse through Plato's closet..there are many second hand goodies you might like to take home...there are books, clothes, jewelry, handbags, and yes, even Vera Bradley purses! Some are worn, but sometimes you can find some in very decent shape at very reasonable prices.
Here are two I have found most recently..not sure if I had posted them previously..but here they are:

As you can see, they are in pretty nice shape. I have always wanted the red bandana colored one..and it is a nice shoulder bag style..for a price of $12 it was totally in my budget for a treat the day I treated myself! The pink and green tote is perfect for my small stitching projects..I think I picked this tote up for $14.
When there is such a great second hand shop to visit, sometimes it is worth checking there first before buying new!
Now, onto stitching!
Louise

The First Gift (and more stuff)....

2012-01-14T18:05:00.001-05:00

First I want to say "thank you"..Some of you commented on my last post and it truly warmed my heart. I know that I am not the only one in this world that has grown up with hardships..I know somehow we all do learn to get past them and move on with our lives. I am thankful that at the age of 18 I met my wonderful dear sweet husband. He is the greatest blessing to me! I am so glad he is now back home again from being away on a business trip. I have missed him so much!
Now..onto what the title of this post is about...I came across something that my husband gave to me when we first began dating. You see, I loved turtles back then...well, actually, I still do..I had quite a collection going in my teen years! Soooo..yes, a turtle lover was I! :)
My husband was in the Navy and I was head over heels in love with him from the moment I first laid my eyes on him. I would see him for a weekend...and then he would leave for the Navy again. As they say, absence makes the heart grow fonder..well, yes it does! In the beginning of our courtship, he was home on a weekend for leave...at the end of the weekend, he handed me a small box...he told me to open it after he was gone. It was a surprise! I couldn't wait to open that box!
Look what was inside....

It is a tiny little pewter turtle! I was so excited that he picked this out on his own just for ME! :)
I have kept it in safe keeping all these years...I just took it out and held it closed up in my hands and asked him if he remembered the first gift he ever gave me...and he looked at me and said "of course I do, it's a little turtle right?"! I LOVE MY HUSBAND!!! :)
Now..onto other things...
I had a nice day out today with stitching friends. We celebrated my friend Avona's birthday with lunch, then joined in a stitching get together . I worked on an old UFO..got a little more done on my Harriet Wool Whimsy Bunny! Too cute!

I have started another stitchery called "The Valentine Sampler" by the Goode Huswife. It is coming along nicely! Just in time for Valentines Day:

I have had much trouble seeing while I stitch lately. I had gone for an eye checkup..and I do wear contact lenses..but the eyes are starting to get old I guess..I do have bifocal contacts..but I still would like to stitch on very small count linens and even weave fabrics... I took the advice of my stitching friends and stopped off at the local Dollar Tree for a pair of magnifying eyeglasses (just for stitching) and a necklace to put them on..not bad for two bucks! I do hope it will help me to see the tiny little x's I want to stitch!
Between the contacts and the magnifying glasses..I should now be set (I hope!)...

I look forward to a night relaxing with my family (so thrilled my hubby is now back home with us)..and I will spend the night stitching away!! WOOHOOO!!

Ps....I am down 30 pounds!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Blessings to you!

Truth.

2012-01-10T17:37:00.001-05:00

One word, with such big meaning. Truth.
The truth is I am an adult child of an alcoholic. Yes. I grew up the daughter of an alcoholic mother.
No, this is not the path I would have chosen for myself in this wondrous and beautiful life I have been given here on earth.
Yes, it hurts. I live with this thought all the time. You see, I never had the relationship I have always dreamed of having with my mom. While other girls had fun shopping with their mom's, going to lunch, having fun..I felt alone. I felt unloved. Although, I guess in her own way, she loved the best she knew how. She did try to do her best. Appearance was very important to her. She sewed dresses for me, baked cookies for school..but, yet..the love I needed, I felt I didn't have. During my teen years, well, that was the worst. She was very critical of me. I never felt I was good enough. I was always trying to please her.
I was always trying to protect my younger siblings. Holidays were hard. The drinking was heavy, the yelling was hard to take, although, it seemed as though we had gotten used to it, we really didn't.
We would always be scorned and treated like children even as adults.
I made a promise to myself and I swore that I would NEVER become this way to my own children, for they deserved so much more than this. If I were to bring children into the world, which were a blessing from GOD, they would be nurtured, loved and protected, whatever the cost.
My children come first. It still hurts to see women with their now aging mom's having such a wonderful relationship and spending time together. I have no relationship with my mother. I can't.
It just wasn't meant to be.
My children recently met their grandmother after all these years..our son now 21, our daughter 16...
After their encounter..my son hugged me that night, realizing what I had been going through all these years..he told me that he loved me and that he was happy that "I" was "His" Mother. He saw how she was, no words were needed. :( It just breaks my heart.
It hurts.
It is easy for people to say to go on, forget about it, ..it still is hard..to live through an experience growing up with this is not easy..it DOES affect you. It does leave scars.
I have had friends that I had to cut out of my life because of their actions towards me...reminds me too much of my mom. I have made other promises to myself that if anyone in the future hurts me in any way, I have to let them go. I need to take care of me from now on.
I am too important of a person.
I know I am blessed, and I know that I was put into my family that I grew up in for a reason..I am still not sure why..but there must have been a reason.
I have prayed so much over the years for my mother's healing, but she doesn't seem to want to heal herself.
I am sorry for that.
Life goes on.
I hear that my mom is still the same. Drinking and very demeaning..but I am not in her life so she cannot do that to me anymore..
She is now 71 years old and nothing has changed.
I don't understand how someone could choose alcohol over their family or anything else for that matter.
What makes alcohol so much more important than relationships?
I guess I will never understand.
It wrecks so many things..relationships, families, love, ......

Everything.
Louise

Piece of my heart

2012-01-08T13:12:00.002-05:00

A piece of my heart is gone. Just for a little while though. My husband travels from time to time with his job. He left again this morning for travels that take him far away from his family again. Although it seems we have gotten quite used to this (the kids adjust well)...really, I don't think I ever will.... I feel as if a part of my heart goes with him and is not whole again till he returns back home. I still cry when I hug him when he goes to leave! I don't want to let go.
I know it's not forever..but still... I want to keep him here with me! I will have to make sure I keep busy so the time will pass quickly till he arrives home again. I will count the minutes though till I am in his arms once again.

I have been exercising more with some power walking (fast walking)...trying to work up to every evening. I did a mile and a half last night. I am still losing pounds..a little at a time. Every pound is a success!
I am trying to get a little more creative with breakfast...this morning I had...

Egg beaters with spinach, broccoli, tomato, double fiber toast with peanut butter sprinkled with cinnamon.
Big glass of iced water :)
Lunch was a turkey burger with onions, tomato, lettuce and yellow mustard!
Not sure what I will have for dinner..but since I have found Dreamfields Pasta..I am surely loving it..It is a healthier pasta, and is so delicious!
I have been stitching up a little bit more on our Anniversary Sampler...this is my progress so far:

A little at a time..it will get done eventually!
I had been searching for a beautiful chart and posted on a stitchers board in search of this one and someone helped me out...Thank you to Elaine in MI for sending me this chart!!! I LOVE this saying..especially with our son leaving for the Military soon...We give our children two things..one is roots, the other is Wings...
This will be perfect stitched up and hanging in our new home.

I decided to pick up one of my guitars today...I am so rusty..I haven't played it in a very long time! I miss playing in church..I used to play at folk mass many moons ago. I think I need to start doing things that made me most happiest in days past.

We are such proud parents, our daughter received her midterm report card and she has made the honor roll! (again!) :) She did fantastic on all her midterm exams. Our daughter is such a blessing!!!

Well...I think that's all the news for now...The sun is shining brightly and it is a beautiful day here..
Remember to take one day at a time and to appreciate one thing at a time. Remember that sometimes good things are in the little things, not always in the big things!
ps.....the chicken at the top of the blog was one of my Dad's chicken's! He loved raising them.
Raggedystitches,

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T16:15:00.000-05:00

I wish all of you a New Year filled with many wonderful blessings, good health, and happiness.
This is going to be a very important and eventful year for us.
So much lies ahead!! I know God has plans for us, and he is always protecting us, we have full faith in him. He has always guided us and know our future is in his hands.
We will take one day at a time and know that everything will be ok because we always have faith!
Looking forward to a wonderful 2012!!!
God Bless all of you,
Louise

Visitors at my door!

2011-12-31T20:28:00.000-05:00

I had the most wonderful visitors at my door this afternoon! I was so excited!!
Our dear friends and neighbors arrived back home from their trip to China. They are now the proud parents of their second child, a son!! He is absolutely ADORABLE!! How lucky I was to get to hold him, cuddle him, kiss him and squeeze him! he didn't seem to mind, and he even ran to me with big smiles, arms open, ready and willing to give me hugs!! (I must have a way with kids)..after all..I did work for years in an elementary school...so I guess that helped some ;)
I enjoyed every MINUTE being with him , and of course his "big" sister who is now 5 years old.
What a beautiful family they are! We are all so delighted for them with the new addition to their beautiful family!
I had been working on a secret gift for the little man..but couldn't post it till now...here it is..a special blanket for him..I chose darker blue colors, being that he is 20 months old:

It is a granny square design crochet blanket. I like making these, they work up fairly easily and are fun to make. Before they left to go back home, I had my hubby snap a picture of me and the little angels!
:)

It was a very happy day indeed!
Louise

Oh The Places I Will Go!................

2011-12-29T20:56:00.000-05:00

I have a new toy.....

Do you know what it is?
Now, I have mentioned I have started walking...
I am using my little ipod for listening to music..oh what fun it is!..but I am sure people are wondering who that lady is singing tunes from the movie Flashdance, like "What a Feeling" as I walk down the street! hee hee
Oh, I just had a thought..I sure hope nobody is making a video and I wind up on youtube? perhaps..you think? AHA! That would be quite funny though. :P

Anyways...this is my new toy opened up:

Yes, I am now the proud owner of a pedometer! Now I can track how many steps I take, and how many miles I walk! GO ME!!

My husband has been joining me with the healthy eating..and he has been exercising too! What a great man, I LOVE HIM TO PIECES!!!
I am down 25 pounds now since August!!! WOOHOO!!

I don't think there is any stopping me now..just about a month now and haven't had any chocolate. I can't believe that!
Wonderful broiled fish tonight with lemon for dinner, brown rice and LOTS of broccoli steamed on the side.

See you soon!
Louise

Christmas Surprise!

2011-12-26T21:30:00.001-05:00

I received the most wonderful surprise in the mail from my forever friend Jackie!! "Hi Jackie"!!!!
I was so excited when I received her box. When I opened it up, I found some pretty pink tissue inside...then, as I opened up what was inside the tissue, I was in complete, absolute, AWE!
Look what was inside:

I sat there in SHOCK! These are the most BEAUTIFUL gifts I have ever seen!! She had made these on her embroidery machine just for ME!! Aren't they BEAUTIFUL!!
She also included the rotary cutter, and the embroidery scissors. The biscornu is just too pretty to stick a pin into! All I want to do is display these items and look at them. :) Oh Jackie, you have spoiled me rotten!!
And this is not all....there was more in the box! Jackie knows how much I love tea and candles...she also included this:

A pretty red teapot..red, one of my favorite colors! Mugs to go along with it, tea, and yummie cookies, and an apple scented candle!

What a wonderful Christmas surprise from someone so dear to me!
Jackie, you are so very special to me, you always will be. I thank you again from the bottom of my heart. You are always so kind and you always do everything with with so much love and it shows!
I am so glad I have a blog to show everyone just how talented you are!
:)

Louise

REJOICE!

2011-12-24T17:23:00.000-05:00

For unto us a Savior is born!
I want to wish everyone a very Blessed Christmas and a New Year filled with health, happiness, and all good things.
MERRY CHRISTMAS! :)
Louise

Unorganized

2011-12-19T13:50:00.002-05:00

One little word with one big meaning. :) This word just about sums it up for me! I try so hard to be organized..but it just never seems to happen for me. I am one of those people that put a pile of papers aside (or cross stitch charts or WIP's) to be gone through another time, or for a later date, but it never seems to happen.
I have so many good intentions and I know what I want, and how I would like things to be..but *sigh*...oh well.
The worst is noticed when I have to wrap gifts...especially at Christmas time!!
Am I the only one that lays everything out on the bed to wrap, and in the mix, lose the scissors or tape that I had JUST had in my hand and placed down somewhere?
How can this be??
Then I go back into the kitchen drawer to grab another tape roll, or another pair of scissors only to lose it again in a big jumbled mess of paper in a big pile that I Have made.
RUSH. Yes, another word that describes me...first is unorganized..another is RUSH.
I usually rush with everything. I like everything done yesterday. If it isn't done yesterday, well then...it just doesn't get done! LOL!
It should have been done yesterday, you do realize that don't you ?
A project should take THIS LONG? really?...really, it shouldn't.
If it takes THIS long..then it was not meant to be started at all, the excitement is gone. Time to start something new.

Ok..enough of that little bit of rambling...which probably didn't make sense to any of you reading it!! ha ha
On to other things.

Our family met up with my husbands family yesterday and we had a really nice time. It was a little hard to remain on my eating plan..but I am so proud I did it! I brought my food along that I need to be eating, and I am still doing well. No headaches thus far. YAY!
My dear sweet MIL gave us a fantastic gift!
a wonderful waffle maker:

I will be doing some research, and I am thinking of some type of whole grain ones for me..and traditional for the rest of the family.
My SIL's are always so much fun to get together with, they gave me surprises too!
One gave me a fantastic snowman mug that will keep my sugar free cocoa or tea warm with his top hat!

My other SIL gave me The Peanuts Gang ornaments (snoopy and woodstock!)..she knows how much I LOVE snoopy!

She also gave me this cute set of Ann and Andy!!!! Look at the blue ticking fabric!!! FANTASTIC!! I nearly fainted when I pulled it out of that bag..this is SO ME!!! Love, love, LOVE THIS!

I am very blessed with my husbands family, they are so wonderful to me!!
My husband is on vacation till after New Years. It is nice to have him home while the kids are also home. I am so looking forward to Christmas!

Raggedystitches,
Louise

Saturday

2011-12-17T08:51:00.000-05:00

I am feeling great!! Not sure if it is the medicine the doctor has put me on, or the change of diet, but it has been over a week and no migraine so far. I have decided that I will start going for walks. I think that will help me even more. I went with my son the other day to a big outlet center and it was huge!! He tracked how far we went, and we had walked about two miles briskly..I did it without any trouble, and it was good exercise for me. I know how much I need exercise. I went out last night and picked up a pair of those new sneakers called Sketchers Shape-ups. They sure do feel funny at first on your feet..I am hoping they will put a spring in my step . :)
I may fancy them up with purple laces, or another pretty color.
Since August I am down 20 pounds!
I didn't think at this age you could lose weight, but obviously so.
There is hope!
I hope you all have a beautiful blessed weekend!
Louise

The Love of Parents

2011-12-12T14:26:00.001-05:00

We are so very excited for our very dear friends. They are on their way to China to adopt their second child, a son! What a blessing!!! Please pray for them for safe travels, and for their health, they are all under the weather at the moment. I do hope they feel better quickly and everything goes smoothly for them. I know that God is with them. They are a beautiful family who always give of themselves to help others in time of need, whether it be with words, hugs, or a phone call, or an act of kindness. They have truly blessed our lives greatly. Their daughter is precious! I just want to squeeze her every time I see her (oh and believe me I do, I love her so much! She gets plenty of hugs and kisses from me!) :)
I cannot wait to meet their son and get to know him.
Our friends are so special. Giving of themselves for children who need a home. They are surely doing God's work here on earth. They are so loving, caring, and such a blessing in the children's lives!!
I saw this quote some time ago on adoption and thought it was absolutely beautiful :)
"Not flesh of my flesh, Nor bone of my bone, But still miraculously my own. Never forget for a single minute, You didn't grow under my heart - but in it"
Please stop over and see the beautiful video my sweet friend made from when they first went to China to get their daughter...now they are on their way to get their handsome son! :)
Grace To Infinity

Louise

Edible Snowflakes!

2011-12-10T21:20:00.002-05:00

I have completed my cookie baking for today. Hooray! I have not baked for my daughter's teachers yet, and may not get to that. But I am glad I have made my traditional orange peel cookie recipe that I make every year for my family. It just wouldn't be Christmas without this tradition!
First up..is my usual Christmas cookie cutouts. I use many different cookie cutters. Christmas trees, a church, Santa, Heart, Star, Dove, Angel, Rocking horse, Stocking, and many others, Oh, and of course a Bunny too!!
Not all of them are pictured:

Next...the snowflake cookies. I am thrilled with how they turned out!! Remember not too long ago I purchased snowflake cookie cutters from King Arthur Flour? Well, I am so glad I did! I knew I could make such pretty cookies with them! I made a sugar icing that turns hard and then I decorated the cookies with round jimmies and big sugar crystals..I tinted the icing with blue paste food coloring, oh, just a touch of the blue, not too much! What do you think?
They are very dainty ...

That's all for now, but very proud of myself, a great accomplishment for me today. When I feel good, I feel good, and it shows in all I do!!
I hope I have many more days like this, it makes me happy and smile. I wish I could share my cookies with all of you that care so much for me, for you deserve my cookies and so much more. Blessings to you!

Louise

Yes, I am!!

2011-12-10T13:11:00.000-05:00

Today is Saturday, and today I feel great, and YES, I AM baking today!! I made the orange peel Christmas sugar cookie dough this morning. It has chilled in the refrigerator and now I am going to roll it out and use all my cookie cutters old and new. I cannot wait to decorate my cookies! I want to get them done while I am feeling well.
Thank you so much for those of you who are always so kind and posting such sweet sentiments to me. I feel so loved and it is nice knowing there are such wonderful friends that care so much about me all the time. I appreciate each and every one of you. I know that I do have a bunch of stress going on right now..with my son joining the military, and other big life events...some I have not mentioned, and can't just yet. I know that it is more than likely affecting me greatly. It is nothing bad, but it is something great and will impact our family. Being the worrier that I am..I am thinking that this is bringing on the migraines even more.
Anyways, I know I am blessed regardless, and I plan on making this a fantastic Christmas with my family. Not sure if our son will be with us next year or not. I sure hope he will be. We will make the most of it!!
Here is the start of the baking process! :)
Oh, and if you want the recipe I use for my delicious cookies, you can find them HERE!

Louise

Changes

2011-12-08T08:39:00.000-05:00

Hello fellow bloggers.
It is me again.
I had a bad day again yesterday. It seems I am getting worse.
The night before the headache was so severe, but managed to get to sleep. I woke up at 3:30am with unmanageable head pain.
I almost woke my husband to take me to the hospital the pain was that bad!
I just laid there and waited till the morning very scared.
I went to the doctor in the morning and they gave me a shot for pain. I am waiting on another doctor to call for scheduling of another appointment for further testing. :(
I don't know how I will get this under control. The medication doesn't seem to be working.
I am a bit worried now with the pain becoming more frequent. I had plans of making all of my daughters teachers hand stitched ornaments for Christmas, but now I will not be able to do that. This makes me feel so terribly sad. I had such hopes of accomplishing so much for this Christmas season.So much I wanted to do for so many people and I just am not able to do it. I hope I feel well enough this weekend to do the Christmas cookie baking. It will be a great feat if I do get it done.
I hope I can still have the family over for the Christmas holiday dinner.
I was speaking with a dear friend about diet and how I can make my diet even better than I have been doing. I am eating pretty well and have been making good changes with cutting out sweets and things I used to love eating.
I have now incorporated flax seed, egg beaters , and whole grain brown rice too...
Along with double grain fiber breads.
I am trying to eat all the right things to encourage weight loss even more and to ward off migraines and help my health.
Thank you to those who continue to keep me in your thoughts and prayers.
I am so tired of being in pain and going to the doctors!
Louise

hello again

2011-12-03T13:46:00.000-05:00

Hello dear friends.
Thank you so much for keeping me in your prayers. I have been feeling a bit better. I have seen the doctor and I have gone through some tests with more doctor visits on the way. I am now on medications which hopefully will help.
I have so much to do with the arrival of Christmas on the way! I do not have the time to be sick. I have just done some errands and dropped off our Christmas cards to the post office. I am glad to have them out so early! :)
Purchased our beautiful Christmas tree which is waiting to be decorated, along with the house. My dear sweet husband is working on our house with painting and making things as beautiful as ever. I have just invited the family over for the holidays and will make preparations soon for the meal and goings on with that.
We noticed that we have visitors in our backyard every night! Our son captured them with his camera last night!
He saw three of them...Look how fat they are!!
OH MY!!

Doctor Visit

2011-11-28T22:40:00.001-05:00

I have not been feeling well the past month and it seems I am getting worse. I have tried so hard to stay away from the doctors office..but the time has come. Please won't you keep me in your prayers. Life has been a bit difficult for me with the pain and I am trying to cope with these weekly migraines, visual disturbances, and feeling very run down. The migraines are weekly now and this past weekend was the worst. It started on Friday, and as of today (Monday) I was still feeling a bit ill with the headache. The migraines have never lasted this long for me. I am praying that the doctors can help me. I have tried so many medications in the past with not great relief, except for less frequency due to the help of some medications. I felt so helpless this weekend..with so much to do, but stayed in bed for three days. This is not the "ME" that I like to see. :(
I thought they would decrease with age, but it seems as though they are getting worse. Not everyone can understand what I feel unless they have had to deal with migraines themselves. It is debilitating! I absolutely broke down in tears this weekend feeling very sorry for myself. I know they pass with time..but now I fear looking forward to another before the week is out, as I have continuously had one starting every Friday for the past month. *sigh*
I have tried many of the triptans with no help.
A preventative has helped in the past, but only worked for so long then they didn't seem strong enough to keep the migraines at bay. I have had MRI's years ago which come up fine.There is a family history..but it seems I have gotten the worst of it. :(

Please, keep me in your prayers for guidance and help from the doctor when I go for my appointment. I think the next stop up will be a neurologist. I am very blessed with an understanding husband who serves my every need, a son who brings me tea, and a daughter who forever snuggles with me! I also thank God for my very dear friends!

Louise

Thanksgiving Baking!

2011-11-23T16:48:00.002-05:00

The Thanksgiving baking has begun! I made a new favorite, Apple Crunch Pie. It sure is delicious!

If you would like the recipe, it is on my recipe blog HERE!

Of course we are having traditional apple pie, which I made use of my new snowflake cookie cutters to decorate the pie crust:

I made pumpkin pie and used a cookie stencil to make a turkey on top with confectioners sugar. Too CUTE!

These are the cookie stencils I use..I found them at the beginning of the autumn season at Hobby Lobby:

I also made a new recipe, chocolate snowball cookies. This is a recipe by Betty Crocker and can be found HERE!

The cookies are delicious, I omitted the almonds..and would suggest not using the full teaspoon of almond extract in the recipe. Almond extract is very strong in flavor! Next time I will probably just put a half teaspoon. They are yummie cookies though :)
I am so looking forward to Thanksgiving, being with family and thanking God for all our many blessings!

Make sure you head on over to Plum Street Samplers Blog for her new Freebie cross stitch design, it is Gorgeous, and perfect for Thanksgiving! You can find the freebie HERE!

The Primitive Hare has a cute Christmas freebie! You will have to scroll down to see it. Love it! CLICK HERE!

Happy Thanksgiving!
Louise

Beautiful Saying

2011-11-21T18:01:00.002-05:00

I saw this on the internet and had to share it with you!
LOVE THIS!

Muddy Buddies!!

2011-11-20T19:38:00.000-05:00

Well, I have gone and done it now...I think I totally wrecked my diet again!
I came across this recipe that I saw on the box of corn chex cereal...well, the picture had me craving this sweet treat. Problem is..it makes a pretty hefty batch indeed! I made it today, put it into a big gallon ziploc bag in the freezer..Oh, it tastes so yummie all cold, sweet, salty, handfuls of goodness!!!
Although I love it so much, I am wishing I didn't make it..I see a midnight snack on the way tonight..
Grrrrrrrrrrrr.................. :)

Now, I will be a sweet sort of friend and give you the recipe..I would never steer you wrong..this is really good stuff!!
You are very welcome..(hee hee!)
Chex Mix Muddy Buddies

Louise

Renewal of Vows

2011-11-19T18:20:00.002-05:00

Today was a most Blessed and Glorious day in our lives! This past April we celebrated our 25th Wedding Anniversary. Today we renewed our Vows in the Catholic Church. Our children were present with us, along with our Sister Erin. It was a beautiful ceremony with Bishop Estevez presiding over the mass. We received a certificate honoring this milestone for keeping!
God has truly blessed us with 25 wonderful years of Love and Friendship.
Looking forward to the next 25!

Granny Scarf

2011-11-17T12:19:00.000-05:00

I put all my granny squares together last night and this morning with a single crochet. Then I added a scallop edge.
This was a fairly easy project, but time consuming. I do like the final results! The colors of purple and green look so pretty together.
A pretty scarf is the final outcome. Thick, warm, and perfect for chilly nights to snuggle around your neck.

Sadly though, the housekeeping has been put aside while I work on things such as my crochet. I think I shall start dinner for later and clean a little bit now!
:) I think more granny squares are in my future..they are so much fun to do!
Ta Ta for now!
Louise

Flurries of Snowflakes Have Arrived!

2011-11-16T15:20:00.000-05:00

Not real ones of course..remember I live in Florida!
But...still received snowflakes, by post that is! My order came in from King Arthur Flour
Aren't they just absolutely BEAUTIFUL!!
Oh, My head is spinning...imagine all the possibilities!
Such pretty colors of white, blue and lavender.

I am soooo looking forward to baking this Christmas season!

Also just snapped a photo of our son..isn't he a cutie! :)

:)
Louise

Grannies!

2011-11-15T18:40:00.000-05:00

I did absolutely nothing today, well, besides making granny squares that is! I am hoping to put them together and make a scarf. I purchased the yarn at Hobby Lobby, it is a multi colored yarn in colors that are so pretty together..purples, blues, greens.

I am thinking I will have to use perhaps 28 squares to make a nice sized scarf. I am not sure of my crochet hook size, as it doesn't say..but it is a chunky hook. Love the chunky ones, so much easier to handle!

Hope you are all having a splendid evening,
Raggedystitches,
Louise

Just ME!

2011-11-14T11:55:00.001-05:00

As I was getting ready this morning for my church class, I looked in the mirror. I am noticing more lines and wrinkles around my eyes than I used to have before. Some may not like the lines they notice..but I am learning to appreciate them, each and every one. I know to have these lines, many events have brought me thus far. Each one could tell a story..not only sad lines, but happy lines. I asked my husband to take a picture of me before I left the house today. I looked at the picture and felt confident in knowing who I am, how blessed I am, and how confident I have grown in myself and the Lord over the years. It has not always been easy, and sometimes there were difficult roads..but I have walked down every road presented to me, even if unexpected. I am who I am, just ME.
I am fortunate to be my age, and be blessed with lines and wrinkles!

:) Louise

Weekend Vacation

2011-11-14T08:27:00.005-05:00

My husband and I took a three day vacation, just the two of us! We went a bit further north, and enjoyed every minute of it. I surely did not want our time away to end. We visited with dear friends I met through a stitching board, (Hi Bonnie and Mike!). They had the most fabulous lunch for us with homemade chili. It was nice to chat, eat, and enjoy each others company.

I had brought along homemade peanut butter cookies to share, with a special stitched pincushion for Bonnie:

We stayed at a beautiful hotel that accommodated our every need.

Breakfast was a wonderful treat each morning, with homemade waffles, fresh fruits, cereals, bagels, pastries, juices, coffee and teas of all sorts. A wonderfully great start to each day! YUM!!

We drove around each day, looking at different homes. Starting to think about our retirement and where we will finally land one day..perhaps sooner than later! We saw many beautiful homes...this one looked nice, but needed some work:

Not sure if a house like this would work for us (ha ha) :)...we searched a little further, and then we found a castle!:

When they say "absence makes the heart grow fonder"...I guess it might work in this house..how could spouses even find each other? LOL!~ A beautiful castle indeed.
The weather was absolutely fantastic! The Fall foliage was outstanding:

We saw Cows peacefully resting:

And we saw Birds:

Not really sure what type of birds they were...but they were big and interesting looking!

A cemetary we passed along the way:

We stopped at a Taco place for some yummie lunch one day..I decided to get the taco salad. It was delicious!

We attended an elegant party for a close friend of my husband. Many people turned out and it was a big hit. A great Saturday night! We had many laughs and enjoyed ourselves immensely. On the way home Hubby wanted to stop for Dairy Queen...when he looked at his chocolate dipped cone, this is what he saw!

We were so happy the whole weekend long, it even showed in the ice cream cone! :)

We looked forward to spending this time together and it was even better than we have ever imagined. Enjoying every minute, just the two of us!

It was lots of fun looking at different homes and spending time in such beautiful weather, along with special friends!

We spotted a stitch shop along the way, and of course my husband (the sweet man he is!) stopped and waited in the car while I shopped. This is the lot I came home with. Many charts on clearance!

Bonnie was so sweet and offered up this beautiful Linda Meyers chart to me when she found out that I love Amish Designs.

We will be traveling again soon, until then, I wish you all a Blessed Week!

Louise

Homemade French Fries!

2011-11-10T13:34:00.000-05:00

I have been so good on my eating plan...well, up until Halloween that is! There is still tons of leftover candy and goodies. I might be dumping the rest in the trash soon to curb the temptations!
I made fish for dinner the other night and the kids were asking for homemade french fries. I remember a technique that my Grandmother had taught me so they would come out extra crispy. Soo....onto cutting up the fries (Idaho potatoes of course!)...then, basking them in a bowl of ice water..yes! Ice water. Makes the potatoes nice and cold..in the meantime you heat up a pan of vegetable oil.
Make sure you drain the potatoes and dry them with paper towels really well.

Then, I plopped them into the hot oil...

Sizzle, Sizzle!!!
Wait until they are a golden brown...then remove them with slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain...Salt them with fine salt as soon as you take the potatoes out of the pan...

DELICIOUS! Yes, I had many...now back to healthy eating! :)
I went out to do some errands this morning...I stopped off at the post office to pick up some stamps.
I asked if Christmas stamps had arrived yet..the worker told me they did, and I had a choice of a Christmas ornament, or a stamp with a mother and child on it.
I just looked at the worker and said, I would like the Holy Mother Mary and the Blessed Baby Jesus stamp if you have that!
Wasn't sure if he knew who they were... :)

I wish you all a wonderful Blessed day today!
Louise

Saturday Morning (and a freebie I found!)

2011-11-05T11:51:00.002-04:00

I wanted so much to sleep late today...but I think my body is programmed for waking up early now. I was up by 6am! (Weekdays I must get up at 5:30am). The United States Navy Blue Angels were practicing over our house in our back yard yesterday in preparation for the big show today. I can't believe how they fly in formation, and so close to each other. They are so amazing to watch!
I did snap a couple of pics with my daughter's little camera and this is what I got:

I kept missing them because they travel at such a high rate of speed! It is so very loud when they fly over and so close, pure excitement!
I was searching around the internet yesterday (spending way too much time online again!) and decided to order a couple of things I have been wanting. (early Christmas gifts from my husband) , I ordered the book by Sarah London titled "Granny Square Love". I cannot wait to receive this book. Lovely pictures throughout. I would like to learn some new granny techniques, and I think this book will help me a lot with that.

I found some freebie cross stitch charts on the internet that I think you might be interested in. Perfect timing with a snowman, an ornament, a pumpkin and a peppermint acorn design too. They look to be older freebies, but I myself have never seen them before..so without further ado...here is the link for you! :
Flying Needle Freebies You must scroll down once you click on the link to see all the freebies. I love them, I know you will too. :)
Yesterday I ordered from a catalog I received in the mail from King Arthur Flour. I have had my eye on these snowflake cookie cutters since last Christmas. I couldn't hold back any longer! I know they will make very special cookies for the Christmas season. Oh Dear, I just looked at the website and it looks as if they are not available to purchase at this time! They were in the catalog and I had just mailed my payment out yesterday with the filled in order form. Perhaps they only mean it is not available online? I sure hope I do get them. I had wanted these so much since last year. Here is a picture of the cookies they create when you use the cutters..aren't they perfect!

Looks like I might have to put a call in to the company and see what is up..I do hope they come through for me!
I went out with my Dear Husband this morning. We did some shopping for house things. We were blessed with an unexpected check in the mail from the bank! They told us that we overpaid with certain things when we closed on our house last year. Now, it wasn't a million bucks..don't get too excited, LOL! But, it was enough to buy a couple of things we have waited on for our home. I love the wood flooring we put throughout our house, but miss the feel of a rug under my feet. Soooo...we looked around, and this is what we found!
Isn't this the prettiest rug! It is now in our living room between the couch and chairs. It absolutely looks lovely. Makes the living room feel so much more "homier".

Much prettier colors in person...moss greens, taupes, creams, deep reds too. We also picked up paint for our master bedroom. I think we chose a really good color, called Crocodile Tears by Olympic. The color online doesn't really match the swatch card, it is more of a greenish, yellowy color..actually, reminds me a bit of celery. I am sure it is going to look really pretty in our bedroom with our white bedspread, or our comforter with shades of green also.
My hubby is ready to get to work today on painting..and I will be going for my annual scheduled eye exam. I hope they can adjust my contact lenses. I am having a lot of trouble stitching on 32 count linen. I may complain at times about having to live with glasses and contacts, but I DO realize how blessed I am that I have eyes to see!
I am trying to keep up with my Church class readings. I am taking a great class that runs for many months with a wonderful group of women that I have become closer to. The readings are wonderful and I am learning so much about temperaments and how each one of us is unique in our own ways. It is a very interesting read!
I am thinking of stitching a lizzie kate ornament for my daughter's teachers for Christmas. "Happy Birthday Jesus". I don't have much time..and always have such good intentions for everyone, and then, I run out of time. I hope though to at least try to do this for them. She has such wonderful teachers at her Catholic school!
It is now just about noon and our kids are still asleep...I remember those days! :)
I wish you all a beautiful day today!
Raggedystitches,

Updates! :) Pic Heavy

2011-10-29T20:22:00.004-04:00

Hello Friends!
I thought I would catch you up a bit with what has been going on in my little part of the world. :)
Tonight was a wonderful night filled with carving the pumpkin and roasting the seeds. The weather is fantastic, nice and cool. I hope that it lasts a long time! We have our back door open and the breeze coming inside is absolutely delightful. I have been enjoying today, spending time with the family and working on my crochet. I did also take a nap! Love these sort of days :) Perhaps I shall have a cup of cocoa in a bit.
Here is our lovely pumpkin, who now has a darling face!

My daughter waited impatiently for the pumpkin seeds to be roasted in the oven. I rinsed them well, sprinkled them with coarse sea salt, then baked them at 250 degrees till crispy. They are delish!

The other day I took a trip over to a second hand shop. I found the neatest Vera Bradley purse in a design I have wanted for quite a while. These purses can be pricey, but second hand, at only 14 dollars I thought was not too bad.

While out shopping, I found the most beautiful Christmas cards at BJ's Wholesale club. They really are gorgeous, including envelopes, a really good buy!

I like to find cards that actually SAY Christmas...after all, that is what we are celebrating ..the birth of Christ our Lord!
Earlier today, I received a package in the mail ...some charts I had been waiting on. I love them!

Merry Christmas by Carriage House Samplings, and Bless the Harvest Sampler by Primitive Needleworks.
I did notice that Bless The Harvest Sampler does not have the letter "J" in the sampler. I did not see that when ordering it..I am assuming it is representative of how they did samplers years ago..leaving a letter or two out? Not sure..but I love the chart!

Not too long ago, I also received another small package from a family member up north. They are sending me things from my past..things that they thought I might like to have. I had forgotten all the things I used to do as a teenager, I guess I have always had a crafty side. Most people know I love dolls, especially Raggedies! I made these dolls from a pattern in a book from what I can recall..many years ago. I think I was about 12 years old when I made these little dollies :)

One of them never received her head of hair..I shall have to work on that for her. I will treasure them forever!
Another surprise in the mail was a chart from my dear sweet friend Kerribeth. She is always so good to me!
The chart is titled "My Favorite Things" and as you can see, spotlights my sweet dear Raggedy Ann doll. :)

I have been working on my crochet afghans this evening. While others finish their blankets in no time at all..I think mine will take years! I don't stick with one thing very long...
But, here they are..coming along, coming along!
Blue and white ripple:

And my 70's blanket...That's what my husband calls it..I call it kind of ugly..I don't like the colors I chose! But, I will keep on...it is really growing in size and will be very warm! This is a crochet Granny Stripe:

Some people know from years ago I love turtles..well, I love a lot of things..but the turtle love started back in high school! I found this bag some time ago at TJMaxx..a store near us. Turtles all over it! It is very large and perfect for holding my yarns and afghan. A bonus is the money paid for it went to charity. :)

Blessings to you!

Proud Parents!

2011-10-24T19:46:00.000-04:00

We are VERY PROUD parents. Our son Patrick was sworn into the United States Navy, Nuclear Power Program today! We always knew our son was an intelligent young man. Please if you could, keep him in your prayers (as well as his Momma, Dad and lil' sister)..it is going to be so hard to let him go. Parents give their children two things, one is roots, the other is wings. We know we did our part raising him, and feel that we must have done a really good job. He has always been and will continue to be a blessing to us and all that know him. God Bless you Patrick John, you are on your way to a very bright future, Thank you for serving this wonderful country of ours! We love you "THE WORLD" xoxox

Missing my friend

2011-10-14T11:30:00.002-04:00

We traveled out of state for a dear friends funeral. I will miss her so much. We had grown so close and shared so much. She was an inspiration to me, and she always made me laugh when we would have our chats. She was indeed a friend for life, but her life was cut so short by a terrible illness. I had prayed so much for her, but know that God has his own plans for each of us. She was to go home, although we felt too soon, it was God's time to take her home. She very much had faith in the Lord and I know she will no longer be in pain now
At the graveside funeral we stood under a tent..for we thought it was about to rain again. As we stood there, the sun slowly came out..and there were many birds chirping that I took notice of.
It was a beautiful service and I am glad we made the trip there.
After we came home, the next day I noticed quite a large butterfly fluttering around our flowers..I had never seen one this large in our yard before.

Rest in Peace my dear sweet friend, and I will see you again one day.

Angel Bear Finish

2011-10-07T19:01:00.001-04:00

Finished up this Lorri Birmingham design. I will be framing this design with a colored matting really soon ! :)

I have begun Fall decorating...Hubby went up in the attic to find our decorations..but only came down with half :(

We do not know what happened to some of our decorations..they are perhaps buried behind boxes in the garage. I picked up some little fake gourds to decorate the dining room table for now. They look pretty! There is so much I want to do (as always)..Had a wonderful time out to dinner with the family. It was so nice being together! I will be getting together with Florida stitchers tomorrow. I look forward to that :) I wish you all a very Blessed weekend ahead!

Raggedystitches,

Louise

Cute Freebies!

2011-09-29T15:15:00.000-04:00

I have recently discovered a designer by the name of CherryWood Design Studios.
I know that Owls are a big thing at the moment (I love them!)..and there is the perfect owl freebie on their internet site.
Whoooo can resist this cutie? I bet it will be so cute stitched up..I think it shall go into my "to do" pile!
:)

Here is the link if interested!
Owl Freebie

Make sure to check out the other freebies on their page too..so cute!

Happy Stitching,

~Sweet Sixteen!~

2011-09-27T08:59:00.002-04:00

Our daughter turned Sweet Sixteen! I wonder where the years have gone...
I remember what feels like yesterday sewing her Raggedy Ann dress...

Our little "Annie" is growing up so fast..I really did try hard to keep her little..but the years slipped through my fingers and she is now a beautiful young lady!
Her cake turned out perfect. Her party theme was "polka dots"..so, we saw to it that her special cake would be adorned with many dots too!

She also had a special "Cookie Cake"..I love these! They are so pretty, the kids loved it, and the shop did a great job at decorating:

The house was jam packed with many guests, family and friends. I prepared trays of many goodies to munch on, and also prepared all the food a day ahead of time:

I filled glass hurricanes with Skittles candy and placed a small tealight candle in a small glass holder inside the hurricane for a beautiful glow with candy "dots" around!
Dinner was delicious with baked ziti, sausage and peppers, cuban sandwiches, potato salad, garden salad, spanish rice, cocktail meatballs and many other things.
I dipped strawberries in chocolate and wrote in white chocolate on them for decoration:

Some guests traveled from other areas, as far as New York!
Our daughter received many lovely gifts..
An adorable stuffed Owl was one of her favorites!

A pretty figurine...This was given to me when I was 16! I had forgotten about this until a relative gave it to our daughter for her special day....

Special favors for the special guests...
Hershey chocolate bars wrapped in personalized wrappers:

Homemade lollies that I made ahead of time out of chocolate. Chocolate and vanilla pops wrapped with polka dot ribbons and personalized ribbons that say "Sweet 16"!

I had purchased polka dot fabric (2 yards) at Hobby Lobby to use as a table cloth..I will now cut it up to make some throw pillows for my daughter's bed, for a remembrance from her Special day!

So much fun with Friends!

Time for Cake!

We Love You Annie!

Happy Sweet 16 ~ Our Angel from Heaven!

Momma, Dad, and Big Brother :)

New Things

2011-09-09T20:51:00.003-04:00

I decided to take a little drive today and treat myself. I was headed over to a local stitch shop, then decided to stop off at one of my favorite Antique Shops on the way called Enchanted Antiques . Oh my! This shop is absolutely filled to the brim with the most gorgeous things! I couldn't wait to see what they had put out for the Fall/Halloween season. I was not disappointed, the shop was beautifully decorated once again!
I found two little things that I could not leave without. A little "Prim" (as in primitive!) doll..isn't she ADORABLE! I love the little stitched saying on her dress..a simple little "Be You". Sweet!
Then, as I meandered around..look at the little bag of itty bitty candy corn! Are they not adorable? I believe they are made out of some sort of resin and are painted and sanded for that time worn look

...I could not do too much shopping for I knew if I wanted to get to the stitch shop and then to the church for my daughter's arrival from school I was short on time. I was busy before this food shopping and having lunch with my wonderful son.
Then..I headed over to the stitch shop and picked up two magazines I have been wanting. Just Cross Stitch Halloween Collection and Just Cross Stitch Christmas Ornaments issue for this year. I have to say, they are both fantastic! Most recently I had seen this adorable chart by Bent Creek titled "Quaker Moon". I had picked that up also.
It was a very good day! I cannot wait to decorate for the Fall season. I am thinking I am done with the hot humid weather that Florida brings. Some new things happening on the home front..but will have to wait a bit to mention what they will be. They are of the good sort of things though :)
I am presently working on a Lorri Birmingham Design that must get finished before the end of October. It is for a darling baby that will turn one soon. We are invited to the birthday and look forward to giving this sweet little Angel something to hang in her room......my progress so far:

Many color changes in Lorri B. Designs...but well worth the effort. The designs usually end up being beautiful!
This design is from this leaflet:

While I was out shopping with my son, we came across some interesting packs of chewing gum. I think this is new, I have never seen it before..we decided to try it out. WOW! Tastes just like eating apple pie. (hee hee!) This will be very good for my diet..by the way, I have lost 10 pounds so far! :)

I came home from my little outing and was surprised to find a treat in my mailbox as well! My sweet stitching friend Kerri sent me a Raggedy Ann pattern by Gloria and Pat Designs. Thank you Kerri!!
Well, that's about all for now. I am going to go do a little stitching for tonight and go through my new magazines..I cannot wait to look at all the beautiful new designs the pages hold!
Blessings to each and everyone of you!
Louise

Pretty Butterfly

2011-09-05T10:13:00.002-04:00

We are getting lots of butterflies coming into our yard. It is such a treat to watch them fluttering around!
Here is another picture I snapped:

Dragonflies

2011-09-03T13:38:00.000-04:00

Stepped out front and snapped a couple of photos..
looks like baby dragonflies are plenty here in this part of town!

Backyard Visitor

2011-09-02T16:30:00.002-04:00

Earlier today I heard a screaming outside...
I went to see what all the clatter was about.
There was this very large bird flying around, then landed in a tree. I ran to get my camera, and this is what I snapped:

I thought it to be an owl at first..it was up quite high, had to zoom in with my camera..
After looking at the photo, It didn't look like an owl to me anymore...I thought perhaps a hawk.
I am not so sure about either, if you look at the beak, it is straight and not hook billed.
It appears to be a young bird..although large in size.
It has the sweetest face!

Anyone know what type of bird this might be?
Louise
***Edited to add***
Thank you to Abbie for your comment...I looked at the photos of a Swainson Hawk..but not sure the markings on the chest are just alike or not..I did look up Red Shouldered Hawk and noticed the chest has the same color marking and horizontal lines as the bird in my picture. The straight beak stumps me though! Might just be the picture itself and it's beak really isn't straight at all...

Getting Back on Track!

2011-08-31T17:20:00.000-04:00

I am feeling so good today! Hooray!
I was out shopping and look what I found...The cutest little canisters I have ever seen!

I found this at a Home Goods Store along with this:

Aren't they darling! I was hoping there would be more to the set..perhaps a picture, or bigger canisters for flour too..but there wasn't at this time. The tea, sugar and coffee canisters are small in size..but I just had to get them. My Dad was a big lover of chickens, he raised them for many years in his backyard. Although my Dad passed away, it is nice to have some chicken themed items to remind me of him.
I started making some comfort caps today. I have learned another friend has found out she has breast cancer. I have made one so far..and plan on making two more tonight to mail out to her.
I just LOVE sewing on my new Janome machine. What a difference from my older machine that I had for so many years. It really is such a joy to work with!
My hubby was away with his job again, but will be arriving home tonight. I cannot wait.
I am going to surprise him with one of his favorite meals. Spanish Rice! It is his Mother's recipe and we all love it so much. It is mighty tasty!

I have put the recipe on my recipe blog if you are interested...just click HERE!

Well, I am off to sew again.
Blessings to you!
Louise

Shopping Trip!

2011-08-29T10:16:00.000-04:00

I must say, I really didn't want to go out yesterday on a shopping trip ..but my sweet daughter convinced me that we needed to go! I am glad we did..although my mouth was still bothering me, look what we spotted in Target!!
Raggedy Ann and Andy Tshirts!
My daughter and I just had to get them....
Cute right?!
Don't look at my messy hair, I didn't prepare for the picture too well! I think it is just about time for a haircut anyways :)
Louise

"Faith, Hope, Love"

2011-08-28T15:33:00.001-04:00

"The Greatest of These is Love"
My newest finished stitched piece. Little House Needleworks design. Stitched on 28 Count Cashel Flax Linen over two with DMC threads.

Love this design! :)

I want to thank those of you that posted to me about my surgery mishap! I am still in pain..(a week and a half later)..but , I think it is a little better than it was. It has to get better right?! Lots of hot packs to my face and motrin. I did volunteer with my daughter yesterday..it was so hot outside, about 100 degrees here in Florida! We were under a big shade tree though, so it wasn't too bad. (trying to convince myself)! HA!
We had the easiest job I think..my daughter and I sat at the table and were the cashiers for the garage sale. I made sure I brought lots of cold water and snacks. They too had extra cold water if needed.
My daughter has now completed all her volunteer work for the entire school year already! She said that she wants to continue being as she enjoys doing things for the church. Makes me smile!
We will probably be decorating the church for Christmas time too.
I would like to get back on a proper eating plan again, the surgery has disturbed normal eating habits, although, I have been trying to eat properly, even if it is food that is all cut up.
I have lost about 8 pounds!
Instead of grabbing chips for snacks, I now grab grapes, apples and almonds :)
I haven't been tracking on Sparkpeople for a couple of days though, with my not feeling well, I let it go for now.
I was hoping to stay home and rest for this afternoon and evening..but it looks like the little lady of the house is preparing for a shopping trip. LOL!
I guess I will be taking her to a store or two. She is such a good girl and deserves all good things. As does our son. We are truly blessed with such wonderful kids!

I have taken notice that I am up to 100 followers!! WOOHOO!~ So exciting! I appreciate each and everyone of you that loves to visit my blog..I think this milestone calls for a giveaway! I will be coming up with something soon..so stay tuned! :)
I hope you are all having a wonderful Sunday,
Louise

My husband...

2011-08-26T21:30:00.000-04:00

is so very wonderful to me...he always does and says just what is needed.
he walked in the door late tonight from work, and this is what he gave to me.
I love him so much, he is always so thoughtful and caring.
Sometimes I wonder how I got so lucky, I know it was in God's plan! :)

Friday's Post

2011-08-26T11:42:00.001-04:00

Hello all...
Had an unexpected turn of events in the past week. I decided to have a wisdom tooth extracted. It was bothering me so much and thought it be best to have it removed. Now I am thinking twice about my decision as things had gone drastically wrong with the surgery!
All seemed fine when the dentist removed the tooth..but then within a matter of days my face swelled and bruised. The pain was something awful!
I went back to the dentist..he told me I developed a hematoma. Just what I did not want to hear! The needle used in the muscle of my mouth hit a blood vessel and cause a clot to form. I have never felt such pain in my life!
I am using moist warm compresses for over a week now, along with medications..oh, it gets worse....
They had me on antibiotics and then I noticed that I was having trouble swallowing. I developed esophagitis!
This is an inflammation and burning of the throat (damage from the antibiotics). I could barely eat food..I have been living on frozen yogurt, ice pops and soft foods for over a week now.
I went to an oral surgeon for re-evaluation, and then off to the regular family doctor also.
I am now on more medication for my throat and was told the pain could last for another week more.
Ok, but, I am sorry, I do not want to go another whole week with this mess, I am so done with the pain!
So, I have been feeling pretty rotten.
Amidst all the pain and frustration, there was something positive I could do while healing..someone close to us is having a baby! Well, actually they had the baby today. A precious little girl.
I have decided to make another baby blanket of crochet (granny square style)!
Something to try and keep my mind off of my pain.
Here is the completed blanket in pink and speckled white.

I need to get better quickly, we will be volunteering this weekend at Divine Mercy House. Their big garage sale is tomorrow and we had previously committed ourselves to helping.
At this moment though, I feel like I cannot do it with feeling so miserable. I did commit though, so I plan to keep that commitment for tomorrow.

Have a great weekend!
Louise

Following the "Spark"!

2011-08-06T13:59:00.003-04:00

Ok, well, a little of what has been going on by me...
I have joined the Sparkpeople bug! It is a wonderful site on the internet that tracks your calories and what you eat, for a healthier lifestyle.
I must admit, I love food. I love cookies, cake, ice cream, chocolate, and potato chips. But, sadly with age..it loves my body too!
I have decided to start eating a little healthier. Now, I must say, this is a bit hard, being used to eating french fries every time we eat out!
There is no greater word with conscious eating than the word "NO". You heard that right , "NO"!
I ask myself..."do I want that ice cream bar, well, yes..but, do I NEED it?" "NO"!! NO, NO, NO!
This has been working for two weeks so far. Sparkpeople is a great way to keep track of what you are eating, and tracks your exercise too. I haven't gotten as far as the exercise part yet..but hopefully one day soon, I will be tracking something. :)
Now, don't forget...you need the good Lord in this program too. You all know he is watching you and there right along side you! Yes, I believe in prayer when I am trying to lose weight. It truly helped me years ago when I lost a lot of weight and I thank God for his help. After all, HE is the one that created each and everyone of us!
Sadly, though, I have gained back and am on the road to becoming healthy once again. There is no time like the present.
Anyways, enough of that, I will show you what I had for lunch today:

I made a wrap with a sundried tomato flatout bread, turkey, lettuce and tomato. I cut up an apple on the side, and sprinkled cinnamon on top. I just love apples with cinnamon! I still felt hungry after that..yes, I have big appetite! So, I grabbed a banana. Much healthier than what I was eating..the daily lunches for me consisted of some sort of sandwich with fries, or potato chips!
So far I am down about three pounds. Not much so far, but it is better than gaining!
In the meantime, I am waiting patiently for the Fall season! I love to bake, and begun some baking today. I made Mexican Wedding Cakes and Pumpkin Bread..I added chocolate chips to my recipe for the pumpkin bread. Delicious! Now, I am trying my hardest not to nibble on these delicious treats! I made them for others to enjoy.

The house smells pretty amazing at the moment!
I have been stitching on many things..mostly UFO's. This is a little piece I am almost done with..this is the second time I have stitched this design titled "Black Needles" ..you can find the freebie HERE .

As I sit here typing, my Dear Husband called me to the window..Look who came to visit our front yard!
Absolutely breathtaking! What a pretty butterfly. Makes me happy to see it is enjoying the flowers we planted in our front yard!

Well, I am off to wrap up the baked goodies.
See you soon!
Raggedystitches and Blessings to you,
Louise

Results are in...

2011-08-05T10:43:00.002-04:00

The cardiologist just called our house with our daughter's results. He told us that the lung perfusion test results came back great! Our daughter has perfect even blood flow to both of her lungs!!
We PRAISE GOD!!! She will not need further surgery, and she will only have to have a yearly visit for heart checkups from now on.
Once again we give thanks and praise for all our blessings. Thank you to Dr. Jan Quaegebuer the doctor in New York City, who perfectly moved Christine's arteries where they should have been at birth. His expertise shines through in the health of our daughter! He not only saved her life at just 4 days old, but gave her a chance to LIVE her life to it's fullest potential. He is truly using the gifts God has given him, operating on infants with heart defects and using the talents in his hands while operating.
Dr. Jan Quaegebeur:

This is a happy day indeed, as will be all our days from this day forward.
Wishing you all a blessed day!
Louise

Prayers Please

2011-07-31T22:27:00.003-04:00

Our daughter is going into the hospital soon for heart testing. Can I ask my dear followers and readers for a prayer or two for her? Many know she was born with heart defects. They were surgically corrected when she was just 4 days old.
She has done well all these years, and we count our blessings. The heart doctor has some concerns and scheduled testing to be done.
I pray dear Lord that everything will turn out fine. She is very nervous, as you can imagine. We love her so much and only want to hear positive news of the results.
I would trade places with her in a second if I could. I wish I could.
Thank you all, and thank you for always coming to see my blog :)

***Edited to add***
I want to thank those of you that took the time to post a message for our daughter. I went with her this morning to volunteer and clean the Catholic Church. She has been volunteering all summer long for the church. We were alone in the church this morning, and before we left I had her hold my hand and we lit a candle together for her. We prayed together and asked God for his almighty protection over her. Thank you again for your caring.
****Edited once again****
Well, it was a hard night here. Our daughter was very worried and upset. She woke up feeling the same way. She was so upset and nervous that she broke out in red splotches and hives all over her body before the test even began! The thought of the radioactive dye with an injection had her upset. She made it through, so thankful it is now behind her. We now wait on the results from the doctor. They said it could be a couple of days. Thank you everyone for keeping her in your prayers!

Louise, Mom to Christine

Great Grandmother's Linens

2011-07-30T19:33:00.000-04:00

I was going through more boxes from moving and I came across my Great Grandmother's linens. I don't have very many of them..my dear Grandma passed them down to me. As you can imagine, I was absolutely thrilled with the thought of owning hand stitched linens from my Great Grandmother! I never had the chance to meet her. She had passed on many, many years ago. It is such a blessing to me to have such beautiful linens that I can cherish and pass down to my own son or daughter one day. When I first laid my eyes on Great Grandmother's stitching and embroidery, I now know why I too love needle and thread! Needlework has been in the family many years, and it is in my blood :)
I must say my Great Grandmother did a beautiful job of embroidery and stitching, and I wish I had the honor of knowing her personally.
But, I am pleased and it overflows my heart with joy that I can honor her and take care of the items she put needle and thread to. Some of the linens have turned yellow with age. I am hoping I can restore them somewhat with cleaning. They have been stored for quite some time now.
I look at her work and can just imagine all the time she spent stitching and pouring her heart into her embroidery. Little did she know that years later there would be a Great Granddaughter, that would treasure her handwork for many more years to come!
I hope that the needlework I create would be saved and treasured by my own children. I believe that these pieces are truly heirlooms and something that can not be duplicated. Each and every piece tells a story of a time long past.
I wish I had a photo of my Dear Great Grandmother, but I do not. Her name was Madelina.

Aren't they absolutely stunning! I am very blessed indeed. My dear Great Grandmother has blessed me tremendously with her loving vintage embroidery!

Louise

Stitchery Finishes

2011-07-20T18:06:00.000-04:00

Just finished up two designs and also framed them. Each are stitched on 28 count evenweave with DMC threads.
First is a freebie I had for quite some time. It is called "Thankful" by Sharon Crescent and Diane Williams for Crescent Colors (although I decided to use DMC threads). This freebie dates back to 2005, and I am not sure if it is still available..I have searched the net and cannot seem to find it anymore. I happen to save everything, so I had it. :)
The frame I purchased in Hobby Lobby. Great sale today! The frames were 50 percent off. Woohoo!
I found a precut mat in green and think it suits it nicely. :)

I also stitched "Special Blessings" By JBW Designs. I needed something sweet for an upcoming baptism of my dear friends baby. This was the perfect design I thought! Another frame from Hobby Lobby. Love their beautiful frames!

I wish you a beautiful evening full of happy stitches!
Louise

Happy News and a little project

2011-07-11T12:54:00.002-04:00

I have been busy volunteering with my daughter and enjoying each and every moment of every day. It is nice not working for the moment and spending time for "me". I have been catching up on some little projects, crocheting, stitching, and now plenty of sewing will be happening! My dear angel of a husband surprised me out of the blue the other day. He said we were going for a drive to a sewing machine shop!!
I have dreamed of owning a real quilting machine, and have wanted one for some time now. After working in a quilt shop in NC, I had gotten a taste of what it was like to sew on a quilting machine and knew that this was something I would like to have one day.
I explored the options in the past..asking friends what types of machines they have, and what would be the best for my needs. I really didn't want an embroidery machine, I wanted one more for craft sewing/quilting.
I never dreamed of owning a beautiful new machine would come sooner that I had ever imagined!
Did I ever tell you that I am married to the greatest man in the whole wide world, well I am!
I am now the proud owner of a Janome machine!!! It is amazing! It runs so smooth and sews beautifully. I have been reading the book that came with it, and learning about all the features it has.
I truly think I am the luckiest lady in the whole wide world. I was thinking my first project up might be a table runner for our dining room. It is going to be so much fun creating new things.
I am soo excited!!!
Did I tell you I am married to the greatest man in the whole wide world?!! :) (Can you tell how excited I am?!)
I stitched a freebie design by Carriage House Samplings (sorry I cannot find it on the web at the moment), I had printed it out some time ago. Not sure if it is still available or not?
I decided to omit the border around the edge. It was a quick easy design to stitch that I made into a pretty pin cushion. I used crushed walnut shells for filler, which they say sharpens the needles and pins with use.

I have a thing for purple, and just loved the fabric I found for this little cushion. It has pretty little purple flowers with bits of pink, green and blue. I love using crushed walnut shells as filler, it makes the cushion nice and heavy. I don't think I will use anything else from now on for my cushions!

I am off to tidy up the house a bit. Dinner will be easy tonight. Took out homemade meatballs in sauce from the freezer that I had made not too long ago. Having meatball hero's for dinner!
Tomorrow will be an enjoyable day volunteering at the church then lunch with my daughter :)
Last week we volunteered with young Mom's, teaching them how to make one of my favorite cookies! My daughter really enjoyed that. :)

I wish you all a beautiful blessed day!
Louise

Summer is here!

2011-06-30T10:26:00.000-04:00

Been busy doing little things, spending time with my daughter, and crafting. We have also been volunteering. I will be heading down to the police substation today to have my fingerprints taken for my latest venture. I will also be taking a CPR course refresher , along with a first aid class. I am very much looking forward to this!

The weather has been hotter than hot..but I guess you can expect that in Florida. We need rain so badly, and not much has come our way so far.We will be heading to the beach soon...but more than likely it will be in the early morning or evening time. I do not like sitting in the hot sun during the middle of the day.
I have my sunflower seeds to plant yet and hoping I find the perfect place to plant them.

I worked on one of my little cross stitch pieces yesterday most of the day. It is now finished. Not sure if I want to frame it or perhaps make it into a pin cushion. Here is the finished piece.

Our family is looking forward to the fourth of July and all the festivities. A tradition in our house is cooking up hot dogs on the grill and watching the hot dog eating contest at Coney Island.
Have a wonderful day everyone!
Louise

Little Stitchery WIPS

2011-06-29T12:10:00.001-04:00

Yes, I have many UFO's..and yet..I start something new again! :)
Such a great feeling always starting new things. This time it is "Basket Of Memories" by Blackbird designs. Love this design..so delicate looking. I am working it on linen with Simply Shaker Thread "Freedom".
I am also still working on "Faith Sampler" by Liberty Primitives and Needlework. This one was a freebie I found on the internet. If you go to Liberty Needleworks blog..you can click on the left side of her blog for many wonderful freebies! They are all so gorgeous..I would love to stitch them all. Here is the link for you:
http://libertyneedlework.blogspot.com/
I have decided to do this freebie with Crescent Colors "Bing Cherry". :) I am liking the look so far.

I wish for you a day filled with sunshine and happiness :)
Louise

Pringles Can Speaker

2011-06-28T12:59:00.001-04:00

I really didn't think this item would be as good as it turned out to be!
I am always ordering free things through the mail for my kids. They never know what will show up in our mailbox next. :)
Pringles had a promotion going on where you could send in for a FREE speaker for a Pringles can.
I thought we might as well send for it. It is amazing to hear the songs from my daughter's ipod on this can speaker! It is so clear and well worth every bit of FREE that it was. :)
It uses three batteries..we have to see how long the batteries last..it DID come with FREE Duracell batteries too! What a deal.
Listening to Taylor Swift right now..I just love Taylor Swift! :)
You too can order your FREE Pringles canister speaker..just follow the directions Pringles Promotion

Time to head out and get the rest of the items needed to bake my husbands birthday cake. Today is his birthday and we are so excited for him!

Louise

Snuggly Bunny

2011-06-27T19:48:00.000-04:00

I snapped the cutest photo of our sweet Bunny.
He has free reign of our kitchen every day, and is such a love!

Stitchers Trip

2011-06-26T15:01:00.002-04:00

I had a wonderful time with friends visiting Mount Dora Florida. We stayed at a wonderful hotel with the softest pillows I have ever felt! We spent time stitching at the hotel, then at the stitch shop too. It was fun browsing around the shop and chatting with the ladies. One of my friends took a group photo..I am still waiting on that. I did not take many pictures myself this time. I found a couple of charts I just had to have, as well as some over dyed flosses and fabric. Some of us brought along "giveaways"..things we have had on hand that we just don't want anymore..so it was up for grabs for everyone to browse through and take if we liked. I just "upped" my fabric stash! I don't have much in the way of stitching fabric and was delighted to see all the fabric Liz brought along from her stash to give away to others. So generous! Bev had some really neat things she was giving away also. She makes the most beautiful zippered pouches..was so pleased to receive some of those for free!
Here are the goodies I Purchased for myself (not a lot of things, trying to keep in budget)!

And...BLESSINGS I received from my friends!

Anyways, I woke up with a very bad migraine today and missed church. I am just not feeling up to my best at this very moment. Thinking on some things, and hoping to start back on my ripply blanket again soon.
I am going to take a nap and hopefully will feel a bit better later on.
Louise

Crochet, Crochet!

2011-06-24T08:10:00.000-04:00

I am very excited and looking forward to my little getaway with my friends! I have made them each a little something from my hands and heart. I crocheted face cloths and picked up some wonderful Yardley lavender soaps to pair up with what I have made.
I know we are going to have a grand time visiting and shopping. I cannot wait!
Here are the face cloths I have crocheted:

And here they are all packaged up and ready for the giving :)

Yesterday everyone was thrilled to finally get a short thunderstorm with rain. The drought has been so bad here in Florida. You can actually see bits of ash floating in the air with all the forest fires around us. The fog has been so thick from smoke, everyone has been staying indoors for now. Looks like more rain will be coming soon, perhaps more relief for us is on the way!

Wishing you all a blessed weekend!

Freebie Sample!

2011-06-23T09:27:00.000-04:00

Here is a link for a free sample of Dove Conditioner!
It is while supplies last though, so hurry up. I already ordered mine :)
FREE DOVE SAMPLE

Father's Day

2011-06-19T18:14:00.000-04:00

Father's Day.
I do know that I was heartbroken when my Dad passed away just four short years ago. He was my world growing up. He taught me so much. He was my confidant, defender, leader, and my inspiration. He used to tell me all the time we were made of "Good Stock" :) He always made me laugh. He seemed invincible! I really believed this was true. I believed that he could live until at least 100. He used to tell me all the time that I always did things the hard way with procrastination (so true!)..the smallest tasks I would stretch them to the greatest extremes instead of the simple way out. I guess that is just my way of wanting things just so. I remember the night before he went to the hospital. I spoke with him on the phone. I am so glad I did. We spoke of little things, silly things. He laughed, as did I. He told me he had stomach pains..I told him perhaps it was kidney stones again. I told him he should go to the doctor the next morning. He agreed that he would.
Little did I know this would be the last time I would speak to my dear ole' Papa Bear. He went immediately into surgery for an abdominal aortic aneurysm. He did live a couple of weeks longer on a ventilator, but had to remain in sedation.
Many miles separated us, and I did not see him before he passed.
I have had dreams of him since then, and little signs that I know he has passed on to me. I am confident he knew I loved him, as did he to me.
Life goes on, and the memories are very strong. It still hurts badly, and sort of waiting for the pain to subside a little bit more. Church is hard on Father's day. I go on this day for my husband. He is the best Father to our children, and it means a lot to him that we go on Father's Day. It is terribly hard for me to hold back my tears as a celebration for all Father's is mentioned on this day in Mass.
I celebrate in my heart my heavenly Father above, and thank him always for the blessings he has bestowed upon me with my given earth Father.
I celebrate the years, the love, the memories. I am thankful I had this opportunity in my life to have a Dad that loved me so....

Happy Father's Day to all Dad's living on earth and in heaven!
Blessings to you,

Blue and White Chevron :)

2011-06-15T19:16:00.000-04:00

Oooh! How I love blue and white together! My daughter loves blue also. I have decided to start crocheting a pretty blue and white chevron blanket for her blue bedroom.
It is quite an easy pattern that you can find HERE from the Royal Sisters Blog. I absolutely adore all her makings on her blog. She is so very talented indeed! You can visit her wonderful blog here The Royal Sisters
It seems as though the crochet bug has really bitten me! There are so many things I want to make. I have tried different patterns, (still having trouble with some)..but even if there is a slight mistake, I make it work as best as I can.
I really like the blue and white colors of this blanket and how they are blending so nicely. I am using some of my favorite yarn from Hobby Lobby. The yarn is called "I Love This Yarn!" in colors of white, Dark Country Blue, Medium Blue, and Soft Blue. I am very pleased with my work on this so far.
Busy hands make for happy hearts!
Will update as I go along..hoping it won't be another UFO. :)

Blessings to you!

Crochet for a blessing to be!

2011-05-27T12:57:00.000-04:00

Pink and White makes up the colors of this granny square baby blanket.
I finished this up today (so glad I have off from work!) :)
This carriage blanket will be given to a very dear friend who is expecting her very first baby..a precious little girl!
I am so excited to give it to the special couple.

Even "Annie" loves how soft the blanket came out..I sure hope I can get it away from her to mail it off! :P

I have been so extremely busy these days. Finding it hard to have a lot of time to craft, blog, etc...
My birthday was a wonderful day, filled with lots of surprises! I received lovely cards in the mail, and gifts from dear friends and family. I feel so loved! My very special Auntie sent me a gift card that I cannot wait to spend. I am thinking hard on what I shall buy. Perhaps lots of yarn for crochet :)

Looking forward to this weekend..have so much to do for preparation for our cookout.
Will spend quality time with friends, and family.

I wish you all a blessed Memorial day. Thank you to all who have served and are still serving our wonderful country,

Toads!

2011-05-14T16:12:00.000-04:00

We are so happy, it is finally raining outside..we need the rain so badly!
The toads are happy too..
Lots of babies everywhere!

Snapped a cute photo, here is a tiny toad sitting on a miniature flip flop keychain :)

Oh Happy Day!

2011-05-03T14:32:00.001-04:00

I am so very excited and THRILLED today!
It is now a requirement for my position at work to be "highly qualified".
I decided not to take the course preceding the exam. I asked for a study guide, and diligently studied like mad for over a month now. I was nervous hoping I had studied all the right material.
I knew whatever the outcome this morning, that GOD would be there right along with me while I took the test.
I felt that if I didn't do well, there are other plans He has for me.
I went in with a very positive outlook and knew I would try my best. I felt anxious, but well prepared.

***** I PASSED ******* !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
With a very high score I must add!!

I am one happy lady today, and know how very blessed I am!

The Weekend Happenings and WIP

2011-04-25T13:45:00.000-04:00

We had the most fantastic Easter/Anniversary weekend celebration!
We grilled out back and the weather was absolutely perfect. Family surprised us with a gorgeous anniversary cake. They had the cake made special to order..just like our engagement cake from many years ago! We were so surprised!

I have been working on a stitchery for our anniversary, but I have not gotten very far along on this project. My life has been so busy lately!
Hope to put a few more stitches in it today.

I am glad to be off from work today with my kids and enjoying every minute of it. My son treated me to lunch at a local restaurant.
I will be studying all this week for my upcoming exam I will be taking.
My DMIL surprised me with the cutest birthday present for my upcoming birthday.
She knows I love turtles and ladybugs..
Look what she found!!
This will look just perfect by our front door.

Happy Monday everyone!

My new dining room!

2011-04-23T23:39:00.004-04:00

I am so excited! My dear sweet husband has been working so hard on our dining room. He installed an oak floor, and put moldings and painted. He worked so hard on this project and it came out so beautiful!
I remember when I was a little girl and I dug up a broken piece of blue and white china in my parents backyard. Ever since then I have always loved blue and white together. I dreamed of having a special dining room of blue and white with matching china.
Well, at the end of this day, my dream has come true!
My husband worked for hours on end till the project was completed.
He kissed me and said "Happy Easter and Happy 25th Anniversary!"
I could not believe my eyes with the finished results.
I believe the most perfect color blue was chosen!

I wish you all an Easter filled with blessings.
Looking forward to our celebration tomorrow!

Bunny Peep Crochet

2011-04-23T07:47:00.001-04:00

Well, here is my first attempt at making a bunny peep in crochet. He is sort of a funny looking fella!
Not exactly the way I thought he would turn out..but I have never made something of this sort before.
I think he does have character though :)

You can find a link for making one yourself here:
Bunny Peep Crochet Pattern

Looking forward to a beautiful Easter Sunday. We are having a big party at our house to celebrate Easter and our 25th Wedding Anniversary.
It will be a grand day!

Happy Easter!

Treasures From Our Trip

2011-04-02T22:13:00.001-04:00

My husband was wondering why I wanted to bring lots of beach sand and shells home with me..
He should have known I had a plan!

This is now sitting so pretty in our master bathroom.
Love it!

Beach Vacation!

2011-04-02T21:21:00.006-04:00

We had the most wonderful time staying for the week in a beach front hotel!
We decided we are going to plan these trips more often, and not wait so long to make the trip.
It was the most enjoyable experience ever!
We stayed at the Hilton which was very nice indeed. The staff at the hotel were so pleasant. We went to sleep every night with our sliding door open, while we listened to the sound of the waves right outside our room. We got up early every morning to watch the sun rising. It was AMAZING!!!
We spent time on the beach, gathered up shells and enjoyed every minute of it.
Breakfast was made to order right in front of us. I chose the everything omelet..what a treat! Eggs with mushrooms, onions, peppers, tomatoes and shredded cheese cooked just right. There were muffins, cinnamon rolls, sausage, bacon, pancakes, home fries, cereals, fruits (watermelon, my favorite!). Fancy teas to choose from..I chose a Thai spice tea. YUM!
Here are some pictures from our trip:

I have plans to do something with all the shells I have collected...
come visit again and you will see what I have done. I shall post about it soon :)

We are back home now, and I need to get working quickly on our Anniversary sampler!
25 years coming up as Mr. and Mrs.! Lots more planned for us...

:)

Goodnight everyone,

Framed LHN

2011-03-29T20:03:00.001-04:00

I had an old frame that I found at Goodwill a while back..you may remember me posting about it.
Glad I hung onto that frame! It was the perfect size for my newly finished Little House Needleworks design. :)

Here it is and I will be hanging it in the kitchen for all to see...

Sweet Little Berries

2011-03-29T12:07:00.004-04:00

My most recent finish is "Sweet Little Berries" by Little House Needleworks.
I stitched this on 25 count Wichelt dirty linen with Carrie's Creations threads.
This piece will hang in my kitchen once I find a suitable frame for it.

(click image for larger view)

I want to thank those of you that take the time to comment such nice things on my blog. It truly gives me inspiration and warms my heart dearly. I know I don't comment on blogs as I should (especially now with working), but just want you all to know I appreciate you so very much!

Wishing you a day full of blessings!

Sunday things

2011-03-20T14:03:00.000-04:00

I have been busy working on some little projects.
Thought I might post some updates.
I have found this new fabric for stitching, and just love it! It is called "Dirty Linen"
Here are some of my ongoing projects:
Sweet Little Berries by Little House Needleworks

Another design I have added more stitches to:
Harriet Wool Whimsy by Heart In Hand

We started our morning off with church. The mass was wonderful.
The priest asked if we could pray about all that is happening in Japan.
They took up a collection today for the Japanese people and will send it to them.
If you can help in any way, even with prayers, I know how much this would mean to these people. You can check out your local churches, or look online.

God Bless everyone in Japan, and may God watch over them. I pray things will soon get better for them.

It's that time again...

2011-03-14T20:41:00.000-04:00

A couple of days early, but decided to prepare the corned beef, red potatoes, carrots, cabbage, and my homemade Irish soda bread!
:)
My husband was one happy man tonight :)

I might make another soda bread to bring in to work to share with my friends. Some of them have told me they never tried Irish soda bread before.

I am off to stitch!
Bye for now...

Saint Patrick's Day Parade

2011-03-12T17:29:00.002-05:00

What a beautiful morning we had today! We went to downtown Saint Augustine, Florida, to watch the Saint Patrick's Day Parade. This is the first time for Saint Augustine to hold a parade, and the turn out was really good. We met up with one of my sister in law's and her boys. The weather was absolutely perfect for this wonderful event. We saw lots of people wearing green. Some even had their pets dressed for the festivities.
My husband and I decided to stay in Saint Augustine and make a day of it.

We just loved the pipes and drums!
Even the horses were dressed up...their hooves were painted green!

Some beautiful Irish Dancers...

We had a nice lunch, and walked around Saint George Street. We also made sure we stopped by the Cathedral Basilica. What a beautiful church this is, and so comforting as you enter. It is one of the most beautiful churches I have ever been in.
I snapped some photos while I was inside, so you too can see the incredible beauty!

Saint Patrick..

I lit candles by the statue of Saint Patrick, along with a prayer for both of our Father's..who are no longer with us.
We also stopped in some neat shops along the way...
You can always find lots of shell shops here in Florida!

I don't particularly care for seeing these..but they sell them....

I don't know who would want one of them decorating their home!! Yikes!
Till our next adventure....

Raggedystitches,

Trenton trip with friends

2011-03-05T20:27:00.006-05:00

Today was an awesome day!
I traveled with friends to Trenton Florida. We visited the Suwannee Shops
We had such a great time while we were there. The shop is big and jam packed with all sorts of stitching goodies.The scenery along our drive down was amazing...there were horses and cattle, and fields of green..

Here are some pictures from the inside of the shop...

We had a nice lunch at the little cafe just across the way...
The quilt shop is connected inside to the cafe. Lots of beautiful fabrics!

After eating our lunch..we browsed the beautiful quilt shop filled to the brim with gorgeous fabrics.
I heard a dog barking...then a cat meowing..then some whistling..I thought that to be odd for a quilt shop..but as I meandered towards the back of the shop..I saw who was making all that noise:

How sweet to see this adorable bird..watching everyone in the shop, he is so precious! He kept putting his head to the side of the cage so I could pet him...I was so surprised to find out his name was "Sunny"!!
That was the name of our bird that we lost last year. This bird was every bit as lovable as our bird used to be.

We also stopped in the antique shop....
many pretty things inside there also!

Way in the back there was a private "tea room"...so pretty in there...

It was a beautiful day outside..the weather was absolutely perfect too..
we had a lot of laughs and a really enjoyable day today...

Here are the goodies I came home with...
Cross Stitch chart "Easter Line up" by the Trilogy
Wool Whimsy by Heart in Hand..look how cute this bunny is! I could not resist this little kit!
Thread Heaven
Assorted over dyed threads
wonderful pieces of fabric
a tiny scissor fob of a little strawberry
a small round tape measure with the Suwannee Valley Shop logo on it.

Look at the wonderful ticking fabric I found! I am in absolute LOVE with it :)
I know I will put it to good use.
It won't be long before I will finally have a sewing room once again! I have waited many years for a little spot of my own again. There was an empty space in the center of our home that my husband is remodeling into a sewing/craft room just for me!
I am thrilled!!
Here is the beginnings of it...

He pulled up the rug that was there, and took down the ceiling to wall mirrors that were there. It is at the very raw stages right now, and doesn't look pretty...you can see the black glue on the sheet rock from the mirror panels. I close my eyes and can imagine what is yet to be!
I was so excited when I came home from my trip today to see what my dear Husband has accomplished so far.
Most of my stitching and craft stuff is piled up, I cannot wait to organize and create in my new room.
It is not a very big room, but just perfect for my needs.
I know how very blessed I am!

Raggedystitches,

Here Bunny Bunny XS

2011-02-26T09:40:00.000-05:00

Here is my latest finish, "Here Bunny Bunny" by Angel Stitchin' designs.
I used Carries threads on 28 count evenweave.
I have not had a good week, I was very sick , but now hopefully on the mend!

WIP Progress "Peaches and Cream"

2011-02-21T08:32:00.001-05:00

What a beautiful day it will be! It is so nice to have a day off from work. I was able to sleep in, but now my day shall begin.
So much to accomplish on my day off.
I have been working on my Peaches and Cream by Lorri Birmingham.
This is my progress so far:

**Click on photo to see enlarged version**
I absolutely LOVE this design!
This is an older design that is in Country Crafts Magazine. This is a Better Homes and Gardens Special Interest Publication from 1992.
I have had this magazine for years and it is one of my favorites.

I hope to finish this piece one day to frame and put in our dining room.

I am on a mission!
Have a wonderful day,

Homespun Curtains

2011-02-19T16:01:00.003-05:00

I have been a busy bee!
I am back to work and enjoying every minute of it.
Today was a day off, just for "me" and I have been savoring every minute of it!
Country has always been my favorite theme for decorating. I have purchased a bunch of homespun fabric and started making curtains for the windows in our home.
I picked a red check for the kitchen and completed these curtains today:

I am very pleased with the results!
The walls have yet to be painted..we managed to remove the wallpaper border that was there (what a struggle that was!)..but glad that it is now off the walls and we are on our way.
Next up I will make curtains for the formal dining room.
I have always loved the color blue, and our china is blue and white.
I decided I wanted to carry the "blue" theme from the dishes into the rest of the room.
This is the fabric I picked for the curtains:

This fabric is exactly what I was searching for!
Love designs with petite flowers, and the blue and white is so pretty.
I cannot wait to get started!

**Edited to add..
Here are the finished curtains in blue and white..
I cannot wait to get some color on the walls!

It is a beautiful day here in Sunny Florida.
Hope you are having a nice day too,
Raggedystitches,

2011-02-10T16:19:00.002-05:00

Always had change in your pocket for the candy store , always had a joke or two that made me laugh, the one I could go to and ask anything, a strong hand, but gentle heart, glad you knew I loved you. You were the one that inspired me. Four years, I miss you Papa Bear.....

I still have the little cat necklace you gave to me when I was a little girl. Although it is worn, it still holds the memories and love of that special day when you presented it to me.

Enchanted Antiques

2011-02-09T17:31:00.005-05:00

I absolutely adore antique shops. It is so enjoyable to see all the old time treasures. I often wonder where each piece has been, and what has brought it to that particular shop at this time. I have come across many vintage finds, each piece I may purchase, adding to my collection of treasured keepsakes.
I often look for sewing notions, threads, scissors, boxes.
Each piece I am sure could tell a story if it could speak.
Scissors used by dressmakers, or needles a Mom may have used for her family, sewing up holes, or fancy embroidery work on pillowcases.
There is a couple of amazing antique shops I have visited recently in Florida.
The newest one is Enchanted Antiques
If you click on the link, you can take a tour of the store with pictures.
They were kind enough to let me take a couple of my own.
I love this new shop!
I found a couple of neat things that I could not leave the store without.
A pretty "Flower Frog" which I will use for my embroidery scissors, and some really neat old time wooden spools of threads. I love notions! (you can click on the pictures to see them even bigger in size)

Blue and White Granny Baby Blanket

2011-02-04T18:34:00.000-05:00

Here is my latest finish. Wow! Did I say "finish"? I don't finish too many things these days, but I sure do start a lot of projects. :)
This is a basic granny square made into a baby blanket. Blue and white Red Heart yarn was used.
It is one big granny square design, and works up pretty quickly. I put a fringe around the outside.
Thanks for stopping by and visiting my blog, I appreciate my visitors! :)

A Reason, Season, or Lifetime

2011-02-03T13:06:00.001-05:00

When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed outwardly or inwardly. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally, or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend, and they are. They are there for the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrong doing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end. Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away. Sometimes they act up or out and force you to take a stand. What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled; their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered and it is now time to move on.

When people come into your life for a SEASON, it is because your turn has come to share, grow, or learn. They may bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy. Believe it! It is real! But, only for a season

LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons; those things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person or people involved; and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships, and areas of your life. It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.

Saint Augustine Florida

2011-01-30T09:36:00.008-05:00

We had a wonderful time in Saint Augustine Florida.
The weather was absolutely perfect and we really enjoyed ourselves. This is the oldest city in the United States and a wonderful place to visit.
Saint Augustine was founded in 1565 by Spanish explorer Pedro Menendez de Aviles.
This city holds a lot of history. The Old Fort is located here, which is considered a national monument.
If you ever get a chance to visit Florida, you will have to come see Saint Augustine! Don't forget to venture down Saint George street with all the wonderful shops. Every time we visit, we have a grand time. :)

Here are some pictures on a slide show for you to see just how beautiful Saint Augustine still is in the present day. What a fantastic place the state of Florida is!
For some reason, I cannot get the slideshow to upload..you will have to go here:

Saint Augustine

Louise

Ott Light in miniature!

2011-01-27T21:56:00.000-05:00

I stopped in at Joann's Etc. craft store today. I found the neatest little Ott light. I have never seen this before, and knew it would be wonderful for stitching or reading in dim light.
There was a sale on Ott lights today, 50 percent off..so, really a great deal!
The light turns on when you open it up.
I will say though, the clamp on the back does NOT fit onto a Q-Snap frame. (Does not open wide enough)
I know this lamp is probably more suited for reading and will fit nicely on a book.
I found that it DOES fit onto a scroll rod, which will be perfect for me when I stitch on my scroll rods.
The light uses three triple A batteries.
It is very bright indeed, and I am very pleased that I Purchased this.
The light fits onto our headboard of our bed.

LOVE IT! :)

Louise

Valentine Crochet

2011-01-27T14:43:00.001-05:00

I thought it might be fun to crochet some red and pink granny squares for Valentines day. :)
I ventured over to Lucy's blog for a really great tutorial on how to make these little pretties.
She also gives you directions for putting them together.
I just LOVE her blog! So much fun, and so creative too. I think I can learn a lot from her.
I am really loving my pink and red granny squares, and thinking they might make a wonderful little throw.
Perhaps I might add some white in there too...hmmmm..have to see if I have white yarn around the house somewhere.

Have a lovely day my friends!

Creative Little People

2011-01-22T09:49:00.000-05:00

I found the cutest photo on the internet!
Look, it's a little Fisher-Price lady at her sewing machine.
Isn't this the cutest thing you have ever seen!

I hope you all have a great weekend,
Raggedystitches,

Cross Stitch Finish

2011-01-21T11:07:00.001-05:00

This is Little House Needleworks "Under The Tree"
Stitched on 30 count with DMC threads.

It's Friday!
Hooray!

Cornflower Blue, how I love you!

2011-01-20T13:54:00.000-05:00

I just LOVE the old Cornflower Blue design for Corningware. This design is from long ago, and usually difficult to find.
I found past pieces at thrift shops, or a friend has gifted me with some.
My dear friend Bev had her eye out for me when she saw someone wanted to sell theirs. Thank you Bev!
I have now very happily added to my collection.
Aren't they just beautiful!

It is a beautiful day outside today and I am looking forward to my daughter coming home soon.
Tomorrow is a girls day, and I am so looking forward to it!

Announcing "Miss Claire" the Bunny!

2011-01-19T22:12:00.000-05:00

I have finished sewing and making my newest doll creation.
Say hello to "Miss Claire"! :)

Wishing you all sweet dreams tonight,

Sewing and Baking

2011-01-19T12:37:00.008-05:00

I have decided to do some fun things today. My day started with baking fresh bread in the oven. I just LOVE the feel of the dough as I knead it. I was so excited with anticipation on the final results. Making bread brings back fond memories of my Italian grandmother. She used to make her own fresh bread and pasta noodles also. I used to love spending time with her as she cooked in her kitchen. She was a small woman in stature, about 4 feet 10 inches tall. Her homemade pizza was the best! Homemade bread always smells so delicious while baking :)
I usually have trouble with my dough rising, and today was no exception. It didn't rise up as high as I thought it would, but still, it did some. Some is better than not!
Here is the dough before baking:

After I pulled the loaves from the oven, this is the result!:

If you would like the recipe, I have placed it on my recipe blog
Country White Bread

It rained heavily last night, and woke me up about 4:30am. I am glad I was able to get back to sleep. Just until 6:00am to see my daughter off to school. I had a most enjoyable day!
Have I ever mentioned how much I LOVE Lorri Birmingham designs? I do!
I put a couple of stitches into a very old UFO. Peaches and Cream by Lorri Birmingham. This UFO is ongoing for about 12 years now! I don't know when it will ever get finished. I know that I will never part with it, because it is a very pretty design. One day it WILL get done ;)

I started putting together a bunny on my sewing machine. I didn't have a pattern, created one myself.
She is coming along, little by little. I think perhaps I shall name her "Claire". I love that name!

Here is Claire Bunny after I tea stained her..made a mixture of tea, cloves, allspice and cinnamon. Brushed her all over, and now she sits outside to dry :) She smells absolutely wonderful!
I have already sewed a simple primitive type dress for her. I used a pretty green homespun fabric..it will be tied up with raffia. Not sure how to paint her face yet..still thinking on that..perhaps very simple. Sometimes less is more!

The sun has begun to shine outside, and now the day is even better.
Time to sit down with one of my favorite magazines, a toasted slice of homemade buttered county white bread, and a cup of tea!

Blessings to you today!

Oh Baby!

2011-01-17T19:30:00.000-05:00

A sweet little cross stitch. Lorri Birmingham Designs, Baby in a Basket. I have already matted and framed this one:

A design that I traced and embroidered, then made into a pillow:

Raggedystitches,

Goodmorning! :)

2011-01-11T08:32:00.001-05:00

Busy, busy morning! It is still so hard for me to get up at 6am..I don't think I will ever get used to it.
I dropped my daughter off to school and was looking forward to a nice home cooked breakfast..well....

The toast didn't exactly turn out as I thought it would! :)
I was going to scrape off the burnt part, but decided I was worth a new piece...so, make a new piece, I did.
I had boiled eggs in the refrigerator and had one of those, with a perfect slice of unburnt plain toast, along with a cup of clear tea.

Much better I think, mighty tasty too!

Our family has finally updated our cell phones, it has been years. I didn't realize how out of the modern technology loop I was! I am now an updated Mom who needs to learn how to text I guess.
I love my new phone, and with my excitement, I decided to make my own crochet phone sock. I used what I had on hand, Sugar and Cream yarn in yellow. I like using this yarn because it is cotton, and not as slippery in your hands as acrylic yarn.
I whipped up this sock pretty quickly and I am pleased with the results.

You can find the pattern for this adorable crochet iphone sock at the Lion Brand Yarn website. If you look around, you can find many other wonderful patterns ranging from beginner to advanced levels. Just click here:
Lion Brand website

It looks like the rain may continue for today, very dark outside. We need the rain, though, just as much as we need the sun :)

Now onto exercising (yes, I have been doing a little bit of that!) :)

Blessings to you dear friends and Raggedystitches,

"Tic Tac Love"

2011-01-07T21:40:00.001-05:00

This sweet design "Tic Tac Love", is a complimentary chart from Simply Chic Needlearts. (dated 2006)
Stitched on 28 count evenweave with Carrie's Creation threads and DMC.
Plymouth Red
Raspberry
Toasted Marshmallow
DMC - 712

I really enjoyed stitching this one!

Sweet Pummelos

2011-01-06T09:48:00.000-05:00

Our neighbor has gifted us with fruit from his trees again!
These are called Pummelos. They are a type of grapefruit. I am eating this one right now and it is delicious! They are a little sweeter than traditional grapefruit. I have already dried up some seeds, I just might plant some pummelo trees for myself.
:)

Chicken Soup For The Soul

2011-01-02T21:48:00.004-05:00

I am not a big reader..but I do LOVE short stories. I love to read inspirational stories, especially at night before I drift off to sleep.
I have taken a big interest in Chicken Soup For The Soul books. The stories are so uplifting! I spent the day with my daughter going to thrift shops and some dollar stores. I happened upon some really good deals.
I found four Chicken Soup For The Soul books much to my delight!
I look forward to reading a couple of wonderful stories before the night ends.
The two bigger books I found at a thrift shop for two dollars each (can't beat that!)..the smaller books for only a dollar at the Dollar Tree store.
So glad I found these wonderful books tonight, and bless the person that passed them on so I could find them.

TOAD!

2011-01-02T19:59:00.002-05:00

I may have just saved a life...
I went into the garage a little while ago and saw this little guy hiding out..
glad I found him and set him free outside.
He is pretty cute isn't he? :) You just never know what you will run into in Florida!

Happy New Year!

2010-12-31T09:15:00.002-05:00

*★* HAPPY *★*。NEW YEAR •** •★
•。★ to all my ★ Blog Friends! ★ 。* 。
° 。 ° ˛˚˛ * _Π_____*。*˚
˚ ˛ •˛•˚ */______/~＼。˚ ˚ ˛
˚ ˛ •˛• ˚ ｜田田｜門｜ *Best Wishes and Blessings to you in 2011

Snow in Florida!

2010-12-28T23:19:00.002-05:00

Well, not really..but a snowflake star was made! :)
I have attempted to make my first snowflake with crochet cotton.
It isn't perfect, but I think pretty good for a first try!
You can find the directions for these little star snowflakes on Ellen's blog
Crocheted Stars

Now off to sleep..I have so much to accomplish tomorrow!
Goodnight friends,

Lonely Paper Holder!

2010-12-28T19:52:00.001-05:00

What is the purpose of a toilet paper holder?
I thought it was to actually HOLD the paper on it?

No, perhaps I am wrong...I guess it is for "propping" the toilet paper roll onto it.
One might think that would be more difficult to balance it right there..wouldn't you think so?

School Lesson tomorrow at our house..
Kids be on time!
The instructor will be showing you some new things you thought you never knew about. LOL!