WEN TO STITCH

A Couple of Birthday Gifts to Share

2012-01-26T20:38:00.001-06:00

The mailman made me a very happy girl yesterday! LOL I received 2 birthday gifts from 2 dear friends. The first one was from my friend Lynne (no blog) in California. Remember when Leisure Arts had a pen pal section in their magazines? Well, that is how Lynne and I started our friendship and its still going on today, 20 years later! I haven't seen her in about 12 years but hope to get out that way in the next few years. Thank heaven's for e-mail though!Lynne sent some wonderful goodies. She's a stamping consultant and makes the best cards! I really treasure the cards and always display them, they make great decorations! She made a cute little box that had Hershey's chocolate and caramel in them. What a cute little pouch and talk about delish! She also made a cute cover for a small note book and sent some fat quarters which I will definitely put to great use. Thanks so much Lynne.

Cathy sent me a package that I also got yesterday! When I read her note and she said her mom is feeling better and that she has been tatting I just knew that I was going to be getting something tatted by her mom! I have a couple of tatted pieces from Cathy's mom and they are just gorgeous! The tatted piece was mounted on a ball jar lid! I love it! Cathy also included a cute little note pad from my purse. Thank you so much Cathy :)

On the stitching front, I am done with my red exchange so while I am still thinking of how to finish it, I have been talking a bit with my friend Irmeli in Finland. I was talking to her about all the stitching I want to do this year and that I have tried a rotation and it just didn't work for me. As I think why it may not have worked for me, I think it may have been because I might have chosen too many large projects or not "mixing" it up a bit. For example, maybe I should have added more smaller projects that could give me that instant gratification feeling. Irmeli said she use to be a "project at a time" stitcher like me but decided to give the crazy January challenge after participating in the challenge last year. So I have decided before Feb. 1st I will put 15 patterns, threads and fabric together for those 15 projects so when Feb. 1st rolls around I will be ready to go! Wish me luck! Well, I think that is all I have to share for now. Thanks so much for stopping by and hope you have some time to put some needle and thread to fabric!Happy StitchingWendy Jo

Belated Christmas Gift Delivered

2012-01-22T12:02:00.001-06:00

Believe it or not I had one Christmas gift to get out the door! My friend, Carol (no blog), in my Tuesday stitch group, had knitted me up some dishcloths so I wanted to stitch her up a little something. I planned to give it to her at stitch group but between the weather and schedules, we haven't met up! So I drove over the other day and delivered it to her. She likes it and its stitched in purple so I could go no wrong! Its a freebie from The Sampler Girl. Its a simple yet makes a lovely little gift. This is just like the "I love knitting" one I stitched for Staci, only "I love stitching". Even though Carol knits, I know she wants to put down her knitting needles and put up that cross stitch needle and start stitching! So maybe this will motivate her a bit!

I am finishing up my red exchange on the Friends Through Threads blog. I had quite a variety of reds to choose from and I went with garnet from WDW. The garnet I have has ALOT of variegation which I just love and the reason I chose it :) I am thinking about the finishing, should it be made into a pinkeep? pillow? small frame? Might have to run it by my Tuesday stitch group. I am hoping the weather will be good to us this week so we can have stitch group on Tuesday.We haven't met in a while so I'm anxious to see what everyone is stitching on. We all have very similar tastes in designers and what we stitch like snowman, primitive, houses, etc. but yet, we all have our "favs" designers. Sometimes a couple of us may be stitching the same design but using different fabric or threads, I love seeing how the design comes out. I am sure Jo Barb will be stitching something snowman or something Prairie Schooler (which is her fav) (she has practically all the PS charts!), Beth (no real favorite designer) is working on Rosewood Manor Quakers & Quilts, which is looking absolutely stunning! Carol is wanting to start the 2012 ornament series from Littlehouse so she might start that or a BBD's loose feathers (which is Carol's fav designer), not sure what Jo K. is stitching on and I am not sure if Jo K. really has a favorite designer and me I'll work on LK Snowman '10 if I am done with the red exchange piece. LK is my favorite designer. Angie is back to teaching part time and right now she has a teaching "gig" until spring break. Angie loves so many different designers that I am not sure if she has a favorite one or not. I'll have to take pics sometime and show them off. They really stitch some beautiful things and none of them have a blog, I have tried talking them into it but they prefer lurking! :) Speaking of stitching, I think I'll close for now and get back to mine! Enjoy the rest of your weekend and hope you put some needle and thread to some fabric! Thanks for stopping by.Happy StitchingWendy JoPS I apologize that the entire posting runs together, I have tried to put paragraph breaks in, but it seems to not be working :(

Birthday Gifts

2012-01-12T20:30:00.000-06:00

I have some wonderful gifts to share with you. Staci sent this earlier this week. Super cute socks (with a mesh bag to wash them in) and the chocolates "were" (notice the word were in quotes, the chocolate didn't last long) yummy! The tin is a collector's tin and I know I'll put it to great use. The socks are so comfy! I love the edging Staci put on them. Makes them extra "cutesy" :) Thanks Staci!

Today I received a present from Julie. Another sweet friend who knows me so well! She sent an adorable floss tag, awesome candle called "Hometown Days", it smells AWESOME!. Julie also sent this fabulous Liberty box, some fabric and a pretty 2012 "American" calendar which I needed! Julie, thank you so very much. All of my faves!

Then I had a package from Becky. Becky and I are birthday buddies on the Friends Through Friends blog. Becky spoiled me. She stitched a lovely pinkeep of a LHN design called Stars & Stripes, which happens to be a pattern I have in my stash to stitch this year. Not any longer! So so pretty! Becky also sent a beautiful needle threader. It is just so delicate and pretty! Becky also got me a gift certificate to spend at Little Stitches. I believe market is next month so I will use it then. Thank you so much Becky for a wonderful birthday package. You certainly made it very special.

For my birthday, we ordered a pizza and had some cake and I'm stitching while Rex went out to shovel. We may go out this weekend for a nice dinner and see "The Iron Lady" with Merle Streep. It looks really good. Generally I like drama and romantic comedies. Once in a while something will grab me like "The Iron Lady" and I love Merle Streep. She was on Ellen today and she told Ellen that she was paid $1 million dollars and donated it to American Women's History Museum. I thought that was really wonderful to hear!Tomorrow I'm getting together with my cousin, Jane, and we are going shopping and seeing an afternoon movie called The Descendants with George Clooney. Anyone seen it? My cousin, Jane, is a real movie buff, LOVES movies! All kinds. Yesterday the temp was in the 50's and today it was in the 20s and it SNOWED! We got around 5 inches. More snow is on the way over the next few days but just trace amounts. Now, it feels like winter! I am loving it now, but I am sure come the first of March, I'll be ready for spring and the warmer temps!On the stitching front, I have Carol's (no blog) Christmas gift stitched and will hopefully see her at stitch group on Tuesday and then I can show pics! I put down my L*K Snowman '10 that I was working on, as I was anxious to start on my red exchange. I am enjoying the piece and I think my partner will really love it! (Fingers crossed!) I'll pick up the L*K Snowman when I'm done with the red exchange piece.Well, thanks so much for stopping by and hope you find some time to put needle and thread to some fabric.Happy stitching,Wendy JoBecky....I have tried to send you a personal e-mail and it has bounced back a couple of times, the last time I sent it, I do believe it went through, if not, please e-mail me. Thanks!!!

Saying Good Bye to 2011

2011-12-30T09:20:00.001-06:00

I don’t know about you, but this year has just gone by so fast. It has probably been one of my least productive stitching years to date. Life has certainly gotten in the way and I am hoping that 2012 is much more productive. I plan to make a big dent in my stash that I have, especially after looking for a piece of fabric the other day, I came across some stash I had bought earlier this year, that I totally forgotten I had bought! It was like bliss all over again! I am sure others can relate??? I think I may sit down with my stash and make a list of patterns/kits I would like to REALLY do and just tackle them one right after another, most likely by season, like right now anything to do with snowmen/winter until about mid-January and then I'll move onto Valentines, etc.. I am one of those stitchers that can only stitch one project at a time. I tried doing a rotation a couple of times and it didn't work for me. If someone has an idea for me, please let me know.I am looking forward to getting back into exchanges a bit. I am participating in Friends Through Friends again and I want to participate in some personal exchanges as well. I did some Christmas gift exchanging so..here is what I sent. I really enjoy stitching and shopping for my stitching friends. I can easily say I don’t have to think “gee…what shall I buy this person or what shall I buy that person” or what to stitch them, I know they will love whatever I send because it comes from my heart. It makes the whole gift giving so much fun! I am so tickled with the gifts I received too. Its everything I love…quoting a popular saying “its right up my alley!” I sent to Staci this: (the jars are lavender and pomergranate hand scrubs I made)

And received this:

Staci also had a birthday and I sent her this:

I sent this to Julie:

And received this:

I also sent to my friend Lynne (no blog) in California. Lynne and I have been friends for years and every year I stitch her something from Lizzie Kate as that is her favorite designer. I think this may be the 12th year? I have lost track! In addition to stitching her something, I sent her some lavender hand scrub and other goodies.

And she sent this (I have a ~~“small”~~ mmm {{maybe}} large obsession?? for kitchen towels!)

My friend Carol, no blog, in my stitch group gave me 4 of her lovely dish cloths. She is quite a knitter and has been doing an amazing amount of knitting lately and knows how much I admire her knitting so I was tickled that she gave this to me:

Her gift is in progress so will show a pic soon.We still don’t have any snow here in Eastern Iowa! I can’t believe I am saying that on the 30th of December! I don’t believe we have any in the forecast either. Christmas seemed alittle off because there was no snow:( I am afraid we may be in for a doosey of a snowstorm come January??I wish everyone a Happy New Year! Thanks so much for stopping by.Happy Stitching, Wendy Jo

Its Been Awhile

2011-12-11T14:27:00.001-06:00

Where has the time gone? I really don't have much on the stitching front. Life has just gotten in the way and I had seem to have lost my stitching, e-mailing and blogging mojo there for a while. Its coming back, thank heavens because it sure feels good to stitch again and e-mailing and of course, get back to blogging.I have been doing some reading, though. I love Jodi Picoult so I have read a few of her books; Salem Falls, The Tenth Circle, Mercy, Change of Heart and then a book by Jacquelyn Mitchard called A Theory of Relativity. I have also gotten a new sewing machine that has more gadgets on it than my older one so I have been doing some more sewing.Rex and I took a trip out to Colorado in September and I got to see Staci a couple of time which was so much fun. I took her a lovely gift and here is a pic. Her anniversary was recently and I sent her a bracelet I made. They are so much fun to do and its "so Staci" and she really love it. (I failed to get a pic but she has one up on her blog).Cathy had a birthday recently and I was late in getting her package in the mail but she has received it and loves it so here's a pic of what I sent.I was also thinking about my friend Joan and thought I'd pop alittle something in the mail to her "just 'cuz" and I also made one for my dear friend Paula (no blog). Both loved them too!I am busy working on some Christmas gifts this week so I can get them shipped by weeks end.I hope everyone is finding some time for stitching as we close in on Christmas. I haven't gotten as much stitching done this year so I have decided I am going to rummage through my charts and make a challenge to myself that I want to get a certain number done by the end of next yea...not sure what the number will be yet, I am still deciding. But I really want to make an effort to stick with it. I have so many wonderful patterns that I really want to stitch.Well, I think I'll close for now. Thanks for stopping by. I so appreciate it very much.Happy Stitching.Wendy Jo

Just A "Few" Finishes

2011-07-05T19:20:00.013-05:00

I hope all my American friends had a nice 4th of July. I spent the majority of it sorting through my fat quarters and having fun matching it up with my stitched pieces looking for just that right backing fabric and then going to my trim basket and searching for just that perfect piece of trim for the final touch. Here is what I accomplished over the weekend. For trim, I used ric rack, chenille that I rit dyed and on the last one "America" I used jute and I stuff all my pillows with walnut litter. I am really happy with the way everything turned out. But I must say...I am rather burned out from finishing for now anyway!

I am now back to stitching Americana things as I have so many I am still wanting to work on and it is still July so I am still in that "mode".

Thanks for all your lovely comments on my package to Staci. I really appreciate your visits and comments.

Happy stitching.
Wendy Jo

I'm Seeing Red, White & Blue!

2011-07-01T11:49:00.007-05:00

Is it really July 1st? and is July 4th really Monday? WOW! This summer is just going by way too fast!

Well, I chatted with a dear gal pal in the Rocky Mountain region this a.m. and she received a package I was actually working on when she sent me this beautiful scarf! OMW...I am sure I need not mention what beautiful work Staci does but...boy oh boy...she REALLY DOES do beautiful work...a very talented lady! Plus its red!!!!!!!!!!!!!

When I was on my Kansas trip I came upon a Stacy Nash pattern "Liberty Sewing Pouch" and I knew I would love to stitch that for Staci. It is just too cute. So I did and I took some chenille trim and rit dyed it, which I learned you really don't need much dye when you are dying chenille. I am really happy with the way the trim turned out. I did stuff the pillow with poly fil as I thought the walnut litter might be a bit too heavy.

I have been having a very loving relationship with my sewing machine the last few days so I decided to give making pincushions a try so...I pulled out some of my Moda charm packs and put this one together for Staci as well. I used walnut litter to fill. I think it turned out pretty good so I am now going to make one for myself.

I have been playing in my fat quarters and am going to be doing some sewing over the next few days and get some things finished. I have some wonderful trim, buttons and of course chenille that I want to get out and play and experiment with so that is my game plan for the holiday weekend.

I hope everyone has a good holiday weekend and also find time to put needle to thread.

Thanks so much for visiting.

Happy stitching,
Wendy Jo

2011-05-10T20:25:00.019-05:00

Long time...no posting! It is catch up time now! So grab a cup of coffee, soda or tea and I'll share what I've been doing.

Julie had a birthday back in March and I sent a present her way and this is what I sent. The design is one of my favorite from Pine Mountain Designs called "Friendship is the Sweetest Flower".

Last month I went on a roadtrip to visit some quilt shops and cross stitch shops and some of the places I stopped at were Crossroads Quiting in Cameron, Mo.; Old Mill Stitchery in Liberty, MO; CC & Co. in Blue Springs, MO; ; Praire Point Quilting in Shawnee, KS; Stitch On Needlework Shop in Lawrence, KS; Stitching Traditions in Topeka, KS; The Sunflower Seed in Topeka, KS; Hen Feathers in Wichita, K; Material Girls in Wichita, and Heart's Desire in Wichita, KS where I {finally} had the opportunity to meet Julie in person! If you read my post from late last year, we had tried to meet up in Sioux City, IA in December but I got caught up in white out conditions and spent the night at the high school in Sloane, Iowa. We then talked about meeting up in Kansas City in February but the hockey tournament was cancelled so I was happy when we were finally able to make this time work. We met up at Heart’s Desire and then headed off to 4 quilt shops (2 listed above), lunch, and then to a newly opened Joann’s. What a wonderful day.

Julie and I did exchange gifts. I stitched her a pattern from Heart in Hand and I changed the colors to match the fabric. I stuffed it with walnut litter.

Julie stitched and made me a wonderful tin, including a marker and some wonderful needles that I used today and just love! (Julie said this was the first one she ever made….she did a fantastic job!) Thanks so much Julie.

Here is a pic of some of the things I purchased. While I was mostly looking for fabric, I went “alittle” crazy with the fat quarters…surprise…surprise! LOLOL

A nice day but very windy, we managed to get a pic in.

Then last week, Rex and I spent a few days up in Minneapolis and I was able to spend a day with Cathy! I was able to also meet her SIL, Janice, as she spent the day with us as well and she is just as sweet as Cathy. What an absolutely fun day we had! We, of course, met up at Stitchville, where Rex dropped me off and then after that, we had lunch and then off we went to some quilt shops.
Cathy and I also exchanged gifts. I stitched her up the same gift I did for Julie and I also stitched one for Joan who was unable to spend the day with us.

Joan sent with Cathy my birthday gift which is absolutely darling!

Cathy’s gift is such a treasure. Its made by Cathy’s 79 year old mom. Boy oh boy does she ever do some wonderful tatting! I feel very blessed to now have 3 pieces from her now. Cathy also gaveme a lovely needlebook that used Blackbird Designs fabric and some Bohn needles too :)

Here is what I picked up. Some great treasurers. Again, I was after some hand dyed fabrics but also came across some wonderful trim, some antique spools, a few fat quarters and some small milk jugs that I am not sure what I’ll do with yet but I am thinking I’ll fill them with flowers or buttons or a bit of both.

Thanks Cathy for a wonderful day! I enjoyed every minute of it! When Cathy dropped me back off at the hotel, Rex played photographer and snapped a pic of Cathy and I.

I have done some stitching for myself and its in my pile of “finishing” now. So here they are: LK Peep; Easter freebie from Istitchaholic; The Trilogy’s Happy Easter; Primitive Betty’s Simplify (I changed the colors to match the fabric I will use as backing), and Blackbird Designs “Bluebird”. Please excuse the wrinkles, I didn’t iron prior to taking pics.

I hope you have had an opportunity to put needle and thread to your fabric and thanks so much for visiting.

Happy stitching.
Wendy Jo

A Birthday Gift from Kansas and Minnesota

2011-01-19T09:20:00.007-06:00

Julie sent me a lovely birthday gift and most has a Kansas theme. She stitched a Lizzie Kate (lives in Kansas) piece called "Friendship Grows" which is exactly what ours is...growing. If you remember Julie and I were going to meet in Sioux City but...snow got in the way. Why does it think it needs to snow in Iowa in December anyway? LOLOL She also sent some chocolate (made in Kansas, which isn't pictured because..I was eating it as I read her card), she also sent a pretty note pad and then she sent me chicken poop! Its a lip balm. Its made there in Kansas. I actually started to laugh when I opened it because when my stitch group went on our roadtrip back in July of 2009 I had actually purchased a few tubes of this for gifts as I thought it was just too funny to pass up. It actually is really good too.

Thanks so much for a lovely package Julie...I love it.

Yesterday I received a package from Cathy B. She sent me such a darling pendant (it was made by Deborah Thorpe of Midsummer Night Designs) that can either be used as an ornament or worn as a necklace and I will be wearing it!! I just love stuff like this. Cathy thank you so very much, the pendant is lovely and I will definitely think of you each and every time I wear it :)

On the stitching front I have been stitching snowmen. Nothing to show as I haven't done the finishing part. I hope to work this weekend on the finishing. That seems to be the part I don't like the best unless its in the way of a pinkeep. But I really want to make an effort to use that sewing machine I bought a couple of years ago and make pillows and even try some cube-its. I know I am in a "rut" with pinkeep finishing so...I need to try new ways! Wish me luck!

Hope everyone has been busy with their needlework..I have been visiting blogs and looks like alot of gals have been doing alot of the 15 project challenge and I am so proud of them and will be cheering them on! I tend to be a one at a time stitcher. Anyone else like that?

There is a cross stitch market coming up...I am anxious to see what new things will be debuting at market. Like I need more..although is it really about need? :)

Happy stitching to you and thanks for visiting.

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

Gifts From Friends, An Aunt and Gift for my Aunt

2011-01-12T20:21:00.011-06:00

Today is my 44th birthday. Wow how did that happen! LOLOL

I have some lovely gifts from some very dear friends share with you:

First up from Staci: She sent me some pima cotton and silk spa cloths and some wonderful smelling lemongrass soap, plus some teas, chocolate and hot cocoa. Thanks so much Staci. I used one of the spa cloths and the lemongrass soap this morning...love it!

Next a gift from my sweet friend Pam. She and I recently reconnected and she sent me a lovely pattern book by Little and Little called The Counting Book. A really neat quaker pattern and a zipper pouch that will be put to some great use. Thanks so much Pam. I love my package.

I also received a lovely package from Margaret. I met Margaret through Pam and she is so sweet as well. She loves Mary Engelbreit like I do..so I received some Mary Engelbreit things, some hot cocoa by Tastefully Simple that is delicious! Plus a candle and other goodies. Thanks very much Margaret for a lovely gift.

Over the past year my Aunt Kathy and I got reacquainted after 30 years..she is part of my dad's family and it was really great to get back in touch with her. She had given me a Willow Tree figurine called "Care and Prayer" at Christmas time. I had always loved these when I have seen them in various stores but never had one until my Aunt Kathy got me one. I was so touched that she got me one. So, yesterday I went up to see her, she only lives 15 minutes away and she is a golfer so...I had just the perfect pattern to stitch picked out for her...Lizzie Kate Summer Crazy pattern that had a small pattern in it called "Gone Golfing" as she LOVES her golf! I told her in a card I wrote to her that it fit her to a "t". She got a kick out of that. I am so glad you like it Aunt Kathy..it was a joy to stitch something for you :) I also made her a magnet for her refrigerator because I know she also loves her coffee. So...she was one happy gal..so of course, I was happy as well :)

I want to say thanks so much to all my friends that have e-mailed me and sent lovely gifts for my birthday. I truly feel very blessed to have some of the best gal pals a girl could ask for.

For my birthday, Rex and I will go this weekend out to dinner and a movie. I have been wanting to see "How Do You Know". We both love Reese Witherspoon and it looks like it might be a good one.

Thanks for stopping by and happy stitching to you.

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

Christmas..Gifts, Family and Friends

2010-12-29T18:52:00.000-06:00

I hope everyone is enjoying the last little bit of the holiday season as we are about to say goodbye to 2010.

I know this year has been very much a roller coaster ride for me. I have reconnected with my dad's family after a 30 year absence, which has been good and difficult, facing some very tough issues and figure out how to deal with them but I am getting there. Rex has been my rock as have been my wonderful friends that mean the world to me and have been there whenever I have needed them. Where would a gal be without their gal pals?

I am also learning about Alzheimer's. One of my dearest friends, Jean, whom I have known for 23 years, who at 66 years old, has it. She started out as my boss when I was 20, I was her admin. asst. at a CPA when she was a recruiting director. A special friendship developed and through the years we stayed in touch and I have gotten to know her family as well. She ended her career as a college professor and now, a bright, energetic, classy, funny, gracious woman has this awful disease. I am fortunate that I live only 1 hour away and I am trying to spend as much time with her as I can. She was the best boss I have ever had.

I do have some pics to show.

Gifts to Staci and from Staci are below:

Since I didn't get to meet up with Julie in Sioux City a few weeks ago, we each mailed our packages to each other and in the package I received, Julie's son sent me.....a hockey puck! A real one! "Wichita Warriors" is what his team is called. He wrote the cutest little note. I have it proudly displayed! Now I know what a hockey puck looks like! (Okay...I know it was round but...didn't realize it was so darn heavy!)

So..Here is my gift to Julie and then Julie's gift to me:

Cathy sent me a darling tatted ornament. Thank you Cathy! (Be watching your mailbox early next week!)

My friend Pam sent me a cute little notebook that will come in handy for keeping track of my blogging friends, etc. Its absolutely adorable. Thanks Pam!

I sent Pam a cute little snowman tag.

On Christmas Day, Rex and I went to his brother, Ernie and his wife Jane's house and stayed overnight. We did a white elephant exchange. We were to find something in our home that we wanted to get rid of so...there were some interesting things that were given away..GLADLY! Here is a pic of what Rex's brother Ernie got from me...a lovely apron...quite appropriate actually because he does alot of baking at Christmas time!

Jane, Ernie's wife, she received a pink flamingo birdhouse from Neal (another brother of Rex's) and again...appropriate because she does like birdhouses, but she tells us it won't stay at her house...she sees her boys and their families in 2 weeks! LOLOL

Neal received from Rex and he received the family portrait taken for their parent's 40th anniversary. There were 50th and 60th anniversary portraits taken before they passed away but no one wanted this 40th anniversary portrait so Rex ended up with it.

Rex got creative with the box...he made it...yep...we had purchased a new shower door a while back so...Rex decided to cut the cardboard it came in and used duct tape to put it together and then wrapped it only the finest of paper...newspaper that is. Neal was...umm...speechless! It was quite funny to say the least! As you can tell...my SIL Jane certainly thought it was!

Rex received from Jane some fine albums...all we need now is a stereo to play them on and we'll be ready to rock and roll!LOLOLOL One of the albums Rex got was by The Carpenters. My other SIL, Barb, LOVES the Carpenters so...when she came in the room Rex had it somewhat wrapped up and gave it to her and as you can see...she thought it was hiliarous. But...she, sadly, didn't take it home with her...she already had it! LOL

No pics of me...I got...from Ernie, a can of asparagus and a book called Stalking the Wild Asparagus by Euell Gibbons. Not sure if that will be on my "must read" list or not. I'll have to give that some thought. But if anyone is interested in reading it...just e-mail me...I'd be happy to send it to you!

I had a fun afternoon today with a couple of gal pals. Margaret and Pam came to town and we went to lunch at The Button Factory and did a bit of shopping and then headed back to my house and had some coffee and carrot cake and chatted. A great afternoon. Rex played photographer and took a pic of us: (Margaret, me, and Pam)

Well, I hope everyone enjoys the rest of the year as it draws to a close and wishing you a happy, healthy new year with LOTS of stitching in the new year!!!!!!!

Take care and thanks for stopping by.

Happy Stitching
Wendy Jo

Birthday Gift to CO and...my overnight stay at a high school

2010-12-14T09:50:00.000-06:00

My dear friend Staci had a birthday last week so I stitched her up a Pine Mountain Pillow design called "Girlfriends" and sent some chocolate too! Staci and I chatted on the phone and she loves the package. It was alot of fun to stitch and we had some great times when Rex and I were in Colorado for his job so the words fit us to a "t".

Well, last Saturday I attempted to go to Sioux City to meet Julie since her son was going to be in a hockey tournament there all weekend. I was going just for the day since Rex and I were planning to spend some time in Des Moines with his brother and our SIL. Well...when I was about 20 miles outside of Sioux City, there was a complete white out. I had just gotten gas in Sloan and got on the ramp to get onto I-29 north and there was a semi right there! So I hit the ditch otherwise I would have hit the semi. A trucker, who watched the whole thing, waved me over and I sat in his rig until the fire and rescue came around picking people up and taking us into Sloan to the firehouse. After that we were transported to the high school for the night. The American Red Cross was absolutely FABULOUS to us all. Very caring and patient and made us feel very comfortable and were on top of the weather reports as were the highway patrol. They provided sandwiches, pop, coffee, hot chocolate, etc.

I was finally able to head back to Des Moines (where I left Rex at his brother's house) around noon on Sunday.

There hadn't been any predictions of heavy snow or even a blizzard on Saturday I guess. Oh well...Julie and I at least chatted a few times on the phone. We'll meet some day!

Well, I need to get my stitching finished up this week as I am having a cyst removed from my right palm Friday morning. The surgeon said its a pretty deep cyst but feels that I won't have many stitches and it should not keep me away from my stitching for long.

Thank you so much for all your lovely comments about my pinkeeps I sent to Lori and Cathy. I really do appreciate them alot!

Take care and happy stitching.

Wendy Jo

A Gift to Minnesota and a Gift to Ohio

2010-12-06T18:23:00.000-06:00

My dear friend Cathy had a birthday last week so I decided to stitch her a design by Pine Mountain Designs called "Sew Glad We're Friends" and finished into a pinkeep. I purchased the backing fabric at a new quilt shop (Quilts-n-More) that opened in my DH's hometown of Albia, IA. I just love the fabric and it is so perfect for the design I stitched. I am so glad Cathy is enjoying the pinkeep!

I also sent a surprise gift to my dear friend Lori (no blog) in Ohio. Lori and I have been internet buddies for about 10 years now and I haven't stitched her anything in a very long time so I thought I'd put a little surprise in her mailbox! I stitched another Pine Mountain Design called "Friendship is the Sweetest Flower". Her favorite color is purple so I change colors to coordinate with the backing fabric. Lori loves the pinkeep..so, of course, it made my day :)

I think that is about it for now. Hope everyone is enjoying the holiday season and is making some time to sit and spend some time with their needle and thread.

Thanks for visiting.

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

A Lovely Mesh Bag

2010-11-30T06:06:00.000-06:00

Mama Joan sent me one of her beautiful mesh bags and I just love it! How pretty is this? Thanks so much Joan. I'm taking it to stitch group today and show the girls!

Every Tuesday six of us get together to stitch. We take turns hosting each week. The hostess provides the beverage (all of seem to drink diet pepsi), munchies and dessert. We even tend to try to make doctor, dental, etc, appointments around our stitch group time! So you can tell we have a great time and look forward to Tuesdays.

I plan to put the finishing touches on two gifts today and get them mailed tomorrow so I should have pics early next week.

Well, thanks for visiting and have a great week.

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

A Gift Received and A Gift Sent

2010-11-21T12:30:00.000-06:00

I received a lovely surprise package in the mail on Friday from Staci and teared up! I definitely needed “a little hug”. Thank you Staci for your friendship. You are a kind, thoughtful, and a very special friend to me. Thanks for “being there” it means A LOT!

My friend, Pam (no blog), had a birthday last week so I stitched her a freebie design by My Big Toe designs and finished it into a pinkeep. She e-mailed me that she loves it and I am so happy. See you soon Pam!

I am off to sit and stitch. I am working on some gifts. I can’t believe next month is Christmas! Gosh…I can’t believe Thursday is Thanksgiving!

Hope everyone has some time to sit with their needle and thread.

Thanks for visiting. Happy stitching.

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

Home From Denver

2010-09-16T09:12:00.000-05:00

We are home and getting back into our old routine after being gone 5 weeks. I had a great time in Denver. I was able to see Staci alot! What a great friendship I treasure. I had made her a scissor fob, attached to a pair of scissors and made 2 magnetic needle minders that could also be used as magnets on the refrigerator (I forgot to take a pic so please check Staci's blog for a pic). Staci also had a gift waiting for me as well! I was absolutely tickled by what she had for me...she knows me so well!!!!

Thank you Staci :) You know I love it very much!

While out in Denver I decided to take a sewing/quilting class and learn how to make a purse! It still needs to be finished but here is a pic also in the picture is a penny rug...I also took a penny rug class...as I wanted to learn how to make those too! I didn't think I did too badly of a job on either of them. I still need to finish putting in the grommets and finish with the strap and then the purse will be done and the penny rug just needs to have some more stitching done on it and it'll be finished. Both classes were taken at High Prairie Quilts in Parker, CO. It is absolutely a wonderful shop and the ladies that work there are so warm and friendly. I really had a great time. If you are ever in the area...stop by..you won't be disappointed! Oh..I also bought a "few" fat quarters as well while I was there:) Couldn't help myself.

Rex and I enjoyed going to the farmer's market on Saturdays, we loved the bakery goods!!! We traveled to a Peach Festival in Palisades, CO (on the other side of the state) one weekend, we traveled down to Colorado Springs and I even went to the Rocky Mountain Quilt Festival, which turned out to be a dangerous place for me! We also went to a Colorado Rockies baseball game and 2 of the Colorado Rapids soccer games (our friends have season tickets) so we really enjoyed our trip, even though it was work for Rex.

I didn't get alot of stitching completed. But that was okay. Now that I'm back home I'll pull it out and get going on it. Its starting to get a bit more chilly here so I think fall is starting to arrive. The leaves have started to change a wee bit anyway.

Well, I need to get some housework done so, guess I'll close for now. Thanks so much for stopping by and for leaving comments. I really appreciate them alot!!

Happy stitching to you.

Wendy Jo

My Summer Exchange From Julie!

2010-08-06T16:21:00.001-05:00

I received my exchange from Julie and I am just in love with everything! I love sunflowers so she really picked some great things to make for me and stitched me the cutest LK pinkeep! The pocket pouch Julie made is just the right size for my camera and the scissor fob she made is on a pair of scissors and packed in my bag for Colorado already as is the Crystal Light Lemonade and gum too!

Julie, thank you so much for a wonderful exchange!!

Rex and I are headed to Denver tomorrow for a while and I am pretty excited. I have alot of things planned to do and will be seeing Staci again...so I'm really looking forward to that. I have packed my stitching bag pretty full with lots of fall things to stitch..I have probably overpacked but I would rather have more than enough to stitch and pick from to stitch than not enough to stitch.

So...in the meantime..thanks for stopping by and happy stitching to you.

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

A Summer Exchange

2010-07-30T07:21:00.000-05:00

Julie and I did a personal summer exchange and she received hers. I stitched her the new freebie from Waxing Moon Designs called "Summer is Sweet" and finished it into a pinkeep. I also sent some other goodies like my new favorite hard candy "Countrytime Hard Lemonade" (I am so addicted to them! LOL), a scissor sack, watermelon ornament, and a package of Mary Engelbreit emery boards.

I am so glad you like the whole package Julie..it was so much fun to stitch and put togehter for you!

Other than working on Julie's exchange, I have been working on a couple of Lizzie Kate projects. I stitched, not finished the summer "fab" fob and am starting on Live Simply.

Rex and I are getting ready to head back to Denver in another week for a while so I have been pretty busy getting ready for that. Of course my stitching bag was my top priority! LOL But now that I have that pretty much packed, I am working on the other things to take and checking off the lists I have made of what needs to be done before we go as well.

Well, I think that is about all for now. Thanks for stopping by and happy stitching.

Wendy Jo

A Gift for a Colorado Friend

2010-06-03T07:55:00.000-05:00

I have been slacking in the blogging department (both posting and visiting other blogs) big time! I just haven't felt like myself lately.

I haven't done a whole lot of stitching lately. I did start Heart in Hand's Spring Day but I am feeling like I am losing my stitching mojo! Not a good thing....

I wanted to stitch something special for Staci so I chose a design by Pine Mountain called "Friendship is the Sweetest Flower" and finished it as a pinkeep. I had such a great time meeting her and can't wait to get back to Colorado again.

Well, I think I'll close for now. Happy stitching to everyone and thank you all so much for your wonderful comments on my rr and Edgar's as well. I really love mine and it was fun to stitch on everybody's.

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

Emblem of Love Round Robin

2010-05-27T08:25:00.000-05:00

The Emblem of Love Round Robin I have been participating in over the past several months is winding down.

Mine arrived home from Margaret last week and its gorgeous. Its stitched on 36 ct. white edinborough over 2 with Crescent Colors Wavy Navy.

I received Edgar's round robin and was the last person to stitch on his and will be mailing his home to him today.

Now since I haven't signed up for any other exchanges I can start working on some things for myself! I just don't know where to start. I have so many patterns that its kind of mind blogging. Guess I will just pull stuff out and see what looks good!

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend. Thanks for stopping by.

Happy stitching.
Wendy Jo

New Fat Quarters and A Belated Birthday Gift

2010-05-12T07:55:00.000-05:00

I received a belated birthday gift from Carol yesterday. It's a beaded scissor fob made with REAL jade beads. It is so pretty! Plus she added a heart charm and I love hearts! I have been searching for my silver dovos and they are missing...mmmm so I will find another pair of silver scissors and give this beaded scissor fob a home!

Thanks so much Carol. Its absolutely gorgeous. (Sorry for the poor pic...its very dark and rainy again here today)

I joined Carolyn's board http://letsquiltandstitch.yuku.com/ and participated in the fat quarter exchange and received fat quarters from...CAROLYN! She sent a wide variety which I really like as these are some great ones I can really put to use!

Thanks so much Carolyn!!!

I have been working on Edgar's rr (Emblem of Love). I am the last one to stitch on Edgar's and then I send it home to him. Its been enjoyable to stitch on everyone's rr as they have used a variety of threads (silks, etc.) so its given me an opportunity to try new ones.

Rex and I are getting new kitchen flooring put in on Friday. We decided to go with wood so I can't wait for that to be put in. I think it'll warm up our kitchen alot. Which is kind of dark right now.

Well, I think I will close for now and visit a few blogs and answer some e-mails and get back to some housework before stitching.

Thanks for stopping by and happy stitching.
Wendy Jo

A Roadtrip To Minneapolis and Met Up With 2 Friends

2010-04-19T09:28:00.001-05:00

Our stitch group had so much fun last year when we took our 3 day roadtrip to Tulsa, Wichita, and Topeka that we thought we would do another roadtrip, but just an overnighter. This time we decided on Minneapolis and going to Stitchville USA. Plus some quilt shops and a really cool general store.

So on the road we were last Thursday at 8:00 a.m. and were at Stitchville USA by 2:00-2:30ish. I finally had the opportunity to meet Cathy and Joan. Both Cathy and Joan are absolutely wonderful gals. The 3 of us were in the "sale" room and talked for awhile and I think we could have spent the entire day in there gabbing away. They are just the best! I was so happy to have the chance to finally meet them. They had goodie bags for each of us filled with chocolates, a cute note pad and a hardanger scissor fob! I got Cathy and Joan each a tumbler that says "Stitch Happy" which they both liked as well.

My stitch group really enjoyed Stitchville and found plenty of treasures to bring home. I did a wee bit of damage and I came home with a new pair of Dovos! These were very much a NEED, they are Americana plus Dovos are my favorite kind of scissors plus they went perfect with the cute little hardanger scissor fob Cathy made for each of us!

Here is a pic of all of us.
Front: Angie, Carol, Beth, Jo K.
Back: Cathy, Wendy, Jo Barb, and Joan

Carol's daughter lives in the Minneapolis area and her family was joining us for dinner so since we had some time before meeting up with them we went over to The General Store.. What a GREAT place to go! Oh my word they have everything you can think of from footwear, kitchen items, candles, jewelry, clothing, toys, etc. They also have a nice little cafe.

That evening Carol's daughter and family joined us (as did Cathy and Joan) for dinner at Old Chicago. Afterwards, we gave hugs and said our goodbyes and shared how much fun we had together that day.

On Friday, we went to back to The General Store and then onto to 2 quilt shops. The first one was The Sampler. Which was a nice little shop in Chanhassen. I managed to find a couple of fat quarters. Then onto Eagle Creek Quilt Shop in Shakopee. This shop is wonderful! Its located in an old railroad depot! I managed to find a few fat quarters to add to my stash.

Then it was time to leave Minnesota and head back to Iowa.

It has become a tradition that we end our roadtrips with "calcium". That is our "code word" for ice cream. So when any of us say "where are we having calcium today?" Everyone knows it means ice cream! So we stopped in Iowa City at Cold Stone Creamery and had some.

Here is a pic of the stash I purchase on our trip.

I want to say to Cathy and Joan again, how much I enjoyed meeting them and how much fun Thursday was!

Now I am off to get some pics developed!

Thanks for stopping by.

Happy stitching,
Wendy Jo

Spring Exchange from Joanne

2010-04-07T19:20:00.000-05:00

I participated in the spring exchange on the Stitching Exchanging blog and my package arrived yesterday and I was stunned by the pinkeep!

Joanne stitched a French freebie and it is gorgeous! I also love the packing fabric to!

She also sent 2 fat quarters and some pretty ribbon as well.

Thanks so much Joanne for a wonderful exchange!

My spring exchange hasn't been received yet so I have my fingers crossed that it will show up at its new home very soon.

I haven't been doing a whole lot since we got back from Denver. I am currently working on Deb's "An Emblem of Love" and I also received Edgar's yesterday. So I have been concentrating on those.

I will close for now so I can get back to my stitching.

Thanks so much for all your visits I sure appreciate them.

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

Home From Denver

2010-03-15T20:08:00.000-05:00

Rex and I have just spent the last 3 weeks in Denver, Colorado. Rex was there on business and while he was working I enjoyed exploring Denver, the suburbs, the LNS and meeting Staci!

Staci and I had a great time going to the thrift stores, visiting a favorite quilt shop she loves (which was wonderful!), having lunch and going to the coffee shop where I stitched and she knitted some gorgeous socks (which she just posted on her blog)! Staci is just as sweet as can be. I have found a very special friend in Colorado that I hope to see again soon!

When I picked up our mail today, my pinkeep exchange from the Friends Through Threads blog was waiting for me. Goldie stitched me a Blackbird Design that I had actually kitted up and put in my stitching bag to stitch while in Colorado and never got around to stitching it! Now, I don't have to!

Thank you so much Goldie, I love it very much!

I sent to Nancy (no blog) and I stitched a design by Carol R. called Sew Blue. I stitched it on 40 ct white over 2 using GAST Dungarees. Nancy loves it and I was enjoyed stitching it and finishing it for her so I have very happy she loves it so much.

The only stitching commitment I have right now is my Emblem rr piece. I am waiting to receive Deb's piece from Margaret and then after that I will just have to stitch on Edgar's piece and then the round robin will be completed. My round robin piece is really looking very pretty. This is one piece I am looking forward to getting framed.

Well, I think I will close for now. Thanks for stopping by.

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

Valentine Exchange For Irmeli

2010-02-12T06:19:00.001-06:00

Irmeli e-mailed me that she has received my Valentine exchange. I stitched Irmeli a pattern by JBW Designs called French Country Love and used the recommended sampler threads and finished it into a door knob pillow for her. I included lots of extra goodies (fabric cuts, chocolate, a scissor sack and fat quarters).

I am so pleased Irmeli loves her exchange. I really enjoyed doing this exchange with her.

I am about done with Suzanne's rr. I need to stop watching so much t.v. when I stitch! I tell ya, I don't get as much stitched watching t.v. as I do when I listen to music or just sitting quietly. Anyone else have that problem? Plus the Olympics ceremony starts tonight so I know I will be watching the Olympics, the winter ones are my favorite.

Anyone have any special plans for Valentine's Day? Rex and I are going to Stitches n Stuff (my LNS) tomorrow as I have a few things on hold there :) and then we are going out to dinner. Its still up in the air where.

On Sunday, Rex is going to finish painting the kitchen. We wanted something brighter for the kitchen as its rather drab and only has a few windows over the sink area so we went with yellow and it looks really good so that is the plan for Sunday.

I hope everyone has a good Valentine's weekend!

Thanks for stopping by.

Wendy Jo

My Heart is Heavy Tonight

2010-02-10T19:06:00.001-06:00

I received a sad note in the mail today. It was from a lady named Pam, a friend (actually Pam said more like a sister) of Mary Jo's. I had Mary Jo's name in the Lizzie Kate Round #3 exchange. Pam wrote to tell me that Mary Jo had passed away on January 14th from metastatic cancer. Pam said from the diagnosis to her passing was only 3-4 days. Pam went onto say that it was peaceful with her husband and daughter at her bedside.

Pam said one of the things that gave her the most joy were the needlework exchanges. Her eyes just sparkled with excitement when she spoke of the exchanges and how much pleasure she got from them.

So I ask that if you are reading my blog entry that you keep Mary Jo, her family and her dear "sister" Pam in your thoughts and prayers. Our needlework community is alittle smaller now.

Pam said Mary Jo would have treasured my LK's "Love" pillow I stitched her.

Rest in Peace Dear Mary Jo.

Wendy Jo

A Few Things to Share

2010-02-08T21:02:00.000-06:00

My mailman has been very busy filling my mailbox with a few goodies and its time to share what I got in the mail!

First up, is my birthday present from my friend Lynne (no blog) in California. Lynne knitted me a pretty scarf for my winter coat that I really needed badly and just love it. She also sent some wonderful chocolate along with a handmade card. Lynne has a side card making business and is so creative and I never throw a card of hers away, they are just such works of art and great to display!

Thanks so much Lynne for the wonderful birthday present, chocolate and adorable card!!

I participated in a Valentine exchange on the ASOE blog and received my exchange from Karin in South Africa. Karin stitched me a pattern from the book "Made in France". She also put some dried lavender from her garden in with the stuffing and it smells so good! Karin also included some wonderful chocolate as well!

Thanks very much Karin for a wonderful exchange! Yours should be there any day now!! (Fingers crossed!!)

Another exchange I participated in was on the Lizzie Kate blog. I received the following from Michele. She looked on my blog and saw I love anything Americana so...she stitched the freebie "Liberty". A really cute finish by Michele with the beading.

Thanks so much Michele, its on display at my house!

I then wanted to do a personal Valentine exchange with Irmeli in Finland, whom I met through Hooked on Exchanging and we have become blogging friends. Irmeli sent an obsolutely delightful package.

The scissor case Irmeli made is a design from The Workbasket and the design on the fob is from a French magazine Ge fil a aguille (I hope I have spelled this correctly). She stitched both on 25 ct. floba one over one with DMC thread. Irmeli's stitching is beautiful and her finishing is perfect. The pink scissors are just so cute too!!

Irmeli included things by Finnish designers (some chocolate, overdyed threads, a cute little sheep accessory all tucked in a cute heart shaped tin).

Irmeli, thank you so very much for an absolutely lovely exchange. Hoping my package arrives in your mailbox very soon!!

I have finished working on an exchange and am now working on Suzanne’s Emblem of Love round robin. Its been perfect stitching weather here in Iowa as it snowed on and off all day today and tomorrow...again...more snow so another day of stitching is planned.

I think I will close for now. Thanks for stopping by and happy stitching.

Wendy Jo

A Darling Fob from Cathy B.

2010-02-03T09:12:00.000-06:00

I had a birthday recently and received a pretty fob from Cathy in the mail a couple of days ago.

The colors and the stitching Cathy did is just gorgeous! She is such a beautiful stitcher!

Cathy and I have gotten to know each other through blogging and the Friends Through Threads blog. I am going to have the opportunity to meet Cathy in person this April when my stitch group heads up to Minneapolis! I am really looking forward to meeting her.

So thank you so very much Cathy for the gorgeous fob! My scissors are very happy:)

On the stitching front I have been working on an pinkeep exchange which is about done so no pictures for now.

I also received in the mail from Margaret, Suzanne's Emblem of Love RR so I will begin working on that in the next week or so. Suzanne has chosen to recommended colors and it is absolutely gorgeous!

Well, I think I will sign off and get busy with some stitching.

Thanks for visiting and happy stitching!

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

Carol's RR and a Gift

2010-01-22T08:32:00.000-06:00

Happy new year (even though we have been into 2010 for 3 weeks now!). I hope the new year has started off well for everyone.

I have finished up my part of Carol's rr and I really enjoyed it. Carol chose Vikki Clayton threads (I believe the name of the thread are magpie tears..very pretty blue) and I hadn't worked with these before and enjoyed it. So Edgar now has Carol's rr and I am awaiting the arrival of Suzanne's rr from Margaret.

I know this is probably going to sound pretty odd and strange but...I stitched something for my Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), Janae. She has taken a position closer to home and I wanted to do something for her as we had a great relationship and I'll miss her ALOT! She was so easy to talk with, she listened, very knowledgeable, caring, compassionate and really into women's health.

I have met the new FNP that is taking her place, Rachel and she is very nice and we hit it off really well. So I am pretty happy.

So here is what I stitched for Janae. She really liked it alot. Its a Pine Mountain Design.

I have also been working on Valentine exchanges and am finishing up the last one now. Then I will start thinking about what to stitch for my pinkeep exchange on the Friends Through Threads blog.

So, I think I will close for now, I hope everyone has a good weekend and has some time set aside for stitching.

Thanks for stopping by.

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

Gifts and Stitching

2009-12-28T08:56:00.000-06:00

I hope everyone had a great Christmas. Rex and I spent part of Christmas Day with my mom and I managed to do a little stitching as well. I worked a bit on Carol's quaker round robin.

First up is some stitching I completed. One thing I made into a pinkeep and the other I just stitched and haven't finished as of yet. Both are designs by Heart in Hand. I just love these cute little snowmen!

I also stitched up a Christmas ornament. The design is by Helga Mandl.

Now the gifts.....every year I always send my friend Lynne (no blog) in California something stitched by Lizzie Kate as Lizzie Kate is her favorite designer as well. So..this is a design that is featured in her latest Tiny Tidings leaflet. I think it turned out pretty good. Lynne also loves flavored coffee, like I do, so I sent her a package of that too.

Lynne doesn't have alot of time for stitching right now as she is a very busy mom and works full time so this year she sent me a gift subscription to any magazine of my choice so I choose the magazine All You. I have been picking it up at the store alot lately and really like it so thought a subscription would be nice. She also sent some lovely kitchen towels, which I love, and some peppermint bark too!

Next up is what I sent to Carol for her birthday. I wasn't able to take a pic of the birthday gift myself as the store packaged her gift for me. So if you copy and paste this link and it will take you to a pic of what I sent. http://www.ibloom.com/ItemNumber/400847_LittleHugsPlaque.aspx

Its an Isabel Bloom. They are very popular here in eastern Iowa as the company is based in Davenport, Iowa. Its very unique and wanted to send Carol something special this year. I have sevearl Isabel Blooms and just really love them.

I also sent Carol something for Christmas and chose a Blackbird Designs pattern from JCS ornament issue from last year. This was my first attempt at a stocking and I am really happy that it turned out so well. It really wasn't hard at all to do. So I see many more of these in my future! LOLOLOL I also sent a quaker coaster that I know she would also love and its in her favorite color --- BLUE!

Well, I think that about does it for today. I have stitch group here tomorrow so I need to be thinking of a dessert to serve, nothing sounds good right now and do some housecleaning.

I hope everyone has a great week and if I don't check back in..have a safe and happy new year!

Thanks for stopping by.

Happy stitching,
Wendy Jo

An Ornament Received and a Birthday Surprise Sent!

2009-12-16T19:15:00.000-06:00

I participated in the Winter/Holiday/Christmas ornament exchange on the All Seasons Ornament Exchange blog and I received my ornament from Tracy yesterday. Tracy made me a cracker from an issue of the Gift of Stitching magazine. I love it! I am going to have to give making these a try, they are so cute!

Thanks so much Tracy and the card is cute too!

I also surprised my SIL, Jane. She is a dog lover and when my stitch group went on our road trip earlier this fall and paid a visit to Lizzie Kate's studio, I saw Linda had this all stitched up and was going to have it in the LNS soon, I knew it would be a perfect piece to stitch for Jane's birthday, which is next week.

This is my first piece ever to frame! I know...shocking! LOLOL (I must give some credit to Rex....he did cut the foam board!) It turned out great...Jane loves it..and I am a happy camper!

Happy birthday Jane!!

I am stitching on "snowy" things right now..no pics yet. I hope to have something to share soon. I also have a couple of Christmas gifts that are on their way to new homes so I also hope to be able to share pics of those as well very soon.

Thanks for stopping by and happy stitching.

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

Scented DMC Floss - Who Knew???

2009-12-09T07:21:00.001-06:00

Earlier this year I participated in the Christmas in July exchange on the Hooked on Exchanging Blog and Lynn B. sent to me. Lynn had included in the package some "Secret Perfume" DMC floss! The package says "stitch and release the scent"...mmm I was quite fascinated with this! I had never heard nor seen this before. I mentioned to Lynn that I would like to try some again and....some more showed up in my mail last night! The scents Lynn sent were orange, lemon and toffee.

Thanks so much Lynn..you are such a sweetheart! I can't wait to give these a try too!

In other news....we now have some snow on the ground and a fair amount of it too! I can't remember how much we have gotten so far but we are to keep getting some throughout the day. Here is a pic of our wooded area in back of our home. This picture is taken from our windows in our living room. Its such a gorgeous view. I love that I can sit in my stitching chair and stitch away and look at this, which I think that is what I am going to do today after I do some cleaning.

Happy stitching!

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

Exchanges.& Exchanges & a Birthday Gift!

2009-12-04T09:30:00.000-06:00

I have a few to share that have been received and sent onto their new homes.

The first one is from the Stitching Exchange Blog's Anything Christmas Exchange. I stitched for Elisa and she was really happy with the design I choose. I stitched LK's Ready, Set, Snow.

I received my ornament from Maggee and I just LOVE it to pieces! I love snowmen and she couldn't have picked a cuter design. Thanks so much Maggee!

Next is the Christmas exchange on the Exchange Heaven blog. I stitched Joy by LK for Lindsay. I also sent Lindsay some notecards too.I am glad Lindsay likes what I sent.

I received from Carol H. and she stitched a cute little snowman and sent a cute bunny rubber stamp. I am looking forward to adding this to my tree this year. Thanks so much Carol!

Then there is the Holiday/XmasWinter exchange on the All Seasons Ornament blog. I sent an ornament to Tracy and what did I decide to stitch..well a design by LK of course!(Gotta keep that theme going!) The design is from one of her Tiny Tidings. I am glad Tracy likes the ornament, it was fun to stitch.

I believe all I have is one ornament coming my way and I think all the exchanges will be completed for the year.

Cathy had a birthday recently so I decided to stitch a little snowman fob for her. She e-mailed me and said she just loves it..so glad to hear that! Its a design from HIHN from the monthly markings series. Happy Birthday Cathy!

I have been working on some Christmas things for myself and plan to play with my sewing maching alittle bit this weekend and hoping it behaves itself..sometimes it can be so temperamental!

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend and thanks for stopping by.

Happy stitching and hugs,

Wendy Jo

A Christmas Ornament from Germany!

2009-11-24T17:42:00.000-06:00

My ornament from the exchange on the Friends Through Friends blog arrived yesterday. Kerstin stitched me an ornament using motifs from a German designer "Liebevolle Kreuzstichentwijrfe". It is really very pretty and finished perfect too! (Kerstin said this was her first time making an ornament, I sure couldn't tell). The ornament came in such a cute little bag too.

Thanks for a lovely exchange Kerstin.

Thanks so much for the well wishes on the migraines. I am doing much better. They usually have been kept under pretty good control.

I wish all my US friends a Happy Thanksgiving. Rex and I plan to have my mom come down for dinner and other than that, just a quiet day at home.

They are forecasting snow showers on Thursday so that might just put me in the mood to start pulling out the Christmas decorations. Seems like everyone around town here has their Christmas lights AND Christmas tree up and all lit up! I feel like we need to get busy! So we will see.

Thanks for stopping by.

Happy stitching!

Wendy Jo

2 Ornaments Received & A Finish

2009-11-19T08:33:00.001-06:00

Kerstin received the ornament I sent from the Friends through Friends ornament exchange. I stitched Kerstin the Littlehouse Needleworks pattern from the 2009 Just Cross Stitch Ornament Issue.

I am so glad you like it Kerstin, I enjoyed stitching it for you.

I also participated in the ornament exchange on the Exchange Heaven blog and we were to also send a non-stitching gift as well. So in addition to a lovely snowman ornament Carol H. also sent a cute bunny rubber stamp!

Thanks for a lovely exchange Carol!

Here is a pic of Gobble Gobble by JBW Designs. I did get it stitched but not "finished" or ironed! I am not sure if he will become a pillow or a pinkeep.

I have been battling migraines the last few days so I haven't done much stitching. Just today I am feeling a bit more like myself just not much energy.

Thanks for stopping by and happy stitching.

Wendy Jo

A Christmas Ornament Arrives!

2009-11-13T09:11:00.000-06:00

I participated in an ornament exchange on the Friends through Friends blog and I received my ornament from Joan and I just love what she sent and the finish is so pretty!

Joan stitched a freebie design (designer unknown) and used DMC variegated floss 4210. All in red...my favorite color to boot!

I'm looking forward to putting this on my tree, which will be here before we known it!

Thanks so much Joan.

I have spent the past couple of days stitching Gobble Gobble by JBW as I had been eyeing that pattern in my pile for a couple of weeks so I decided I am just going to get it stitched before Thanksgiving and I actually should have that finished later today. Then its back to my Christmas stitching and I should have some pics next week to share.

I hope everyone has a great weekend and thanks for stopping by. I really do appreciate it and thanks so much for the compliments.

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

A P.I.F and LK Exchange Arrive!

2009-11-09T08:37:00.001-06:00

I received a couple of packages that I have to share.

First, a P.I.F. (pay it forward) from Carol S. Earlier this year I signed up for a P.I.F. on Carol's blog and I received a lovely Christmas ornament from her! Its from JBW Designs called "Peace on Earth". It is so cute! I can't wait to put it on my tree! Thanks so very much Carol!

The next package was from the Lizzie Kate exchange blog I participated in. I received a lovely pillow from Brenda. I haven't had an opportunity to stitch this chart yet so I was tickled to receive this. Thanks so much Brenda for a lovely exchange!

I am all done with my Christmas exchanges and gifts and they are ready for mailing so I am now just working on some things for myself which is nice. I hope to be able to show some things shortly.

Thanks for stopping by and happy stitching.

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

Because Its Pink Exchange & LK Exchange

2009-10-30T18:49:00.000-05:00

I participated in the Because Its Pink Exchange on the Hooked on Exchanging blog and today my exchange arrived from Jayne P.!

Jayne stitched me a Dinky Dyes limited edition design, made it into a scissors slide (one side of the design reads "Love, Laugh, Survive Thrive") and included a pair of scissors. Jayne also sent some wonderful gum as well.

Thanks so much Jayne for a wonderful exchange. I love it!

I also participated in an exchange on the Lizzie Kate Exchange Blog. I stitched "Stitching Forever..Housework Whenever" for Eileen and finished it into a pinkeep. I am so glad Eileen likes the exchange. It was fun to stitch.

Here are some pics:

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend and thanks for stopping by.

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

Exchange Sent and Received

2009-10-27T08:33:00.000-05:00

Chris H. let me know she received the breast cancer exchange I sent her from the Hooked on Exchanging blog. I stitched Chris a freebie pattern from Cosmic Handmade called Breast Cancer Awareness and I finished it into a pinkeep. I also sent Chris some other goodies as well. I'm glad you like the exchange Chris, I enjoyed stitching for you.

Here are some pics:

I received my autumn ornament exchange from Alison last night from the All Seasons Ornament Exchange blog and it is so pretty! Alison noticed on my blog that I love the color red and said that blackberries reminded her of fall. So she stitched some for me from one of her favorite magazines "New Stitches" issue 53. She stitched the design on sparkly evenweave with silk mill thread and finished it into a pinkeep. She also put my initial on the back. So very pretty!

Thanks very much Alison for a gorgeous pinkeep!!

Here are some pics!

Well I have only 2 exchanges left to stitch and then I can start on my gifts so I think I am doing pretty good!

Thanks for stopping by and thanks for all the lovely commnets...I do appreciate them very much.

Happy stitching.

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

Harvest Time Exchange from Lisa!

2009-10-23T09:29:00.000-05:00

I got a lovely exchange from Lisa V. yesterday that really brightened my day (which I desperately needed). It was an exchange from the Stitching Exchange's Harvest Time exchange. Lisa stitched Bent Creek's "Giving Thanks" on 32 ct. Sand Minster linen and used DMC floss and finished it into a cute pinkeep.

Lisa also included some fabric that I already have a project to use it on.

Thanks so much Lisa, I love my exchange and thanks for brightening my day!

Hope everyone has a nice weekend and thanks for stopping by.

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

LHN "Pumpkins" Arrives to Gillie

2009-10-21T19:41:00.000-05:00

I participated in the Harvest Time exchange on the Stitching Exchange blog and Gillie was the recipient and she was very happy with it. I painted the pins with some copper paint I got at Hobby Lobby and made it into a pinkeep. I also included some autumn colored threads.

Here are some pics:

I am so glad you like the exchange Gillie..it was a fun stitch!

I am mailing out my Lizzie Kate exchange tomorrow so hopefully will have pics to put up shortly for that.

I am awaiting the arrival of Carol's rr and have until the new year to work on and to mail. In the meantime, I will continue working on Christmas exchanges and start working on Christmas gifts. I can't believe Christmas will be here very shortly.

Thanks for stopping by.

Hugs and happy stitching,
Wendy Jo

Exchanges Sent Out Are Received

2009-10-18T11:27:00.000-05:00

Alison sent me an e-mail that she received the fall ornament that I sent her for the All Seasons Ornament Exchange. I designed to stitch her JBW's Autumn Pumpkin. Here is a pic:

I am glad you like it Alison..I enjoyed stitching it for you.

The next exchange I sent was to Lynn B. for the Hooked on Exchanging Halloween Exchange. Lynn e-mailed me to let me know it arrived and she likes it! I stitched Lynn Waxing Moon's The Spooks Are Out. I also sent a LHN pattern that she didn't have and a fat quarter. Here are some pics:

I also completed my section of the Emblem of Love rr I am participating in. I stitched on Margaret's piece and she used some lovely red thread! Very pretty. Now it will be on its way to Edgar tomorrow!

Here is a pic:

Now I will be contining working on my Christmas exchanges and some other gifts and hopefully working in a few things for myself too.

Thanks for stopping by.

Hugs and happy stitching.
Wendy Jo

My HoE Halloween Exchange Arrives!

2009-10-09T08:35:00.000-05:00

I received from Leigh my halloween exchange yesterday and she sent a really cute design pin pillow, floss tag, notte pad, buttons and floss.

I had this pattern on my "to do" list and now I can take it off!

Here are some pics:

Thanks Leigh for a wonderful exchange!

I hope everyone has a nice weekend. I am going to work on Margaret's rr and hopefully get started on some Christmas stitching.

Thanks for stopping by.

Hugs,
Wendy

PS. Thanks for all the lovely comments about my roadtrip. It was really wonderful!

What A Great Trip With An Unexpected Surprise!

2009-10-05T09:29:00.000-05:00

After planning and saving for 14 months September 30th finally arrived and we were beyond excited! Our trip was fabulous and as always is the case when you are having a great time; it always goes by way too quickly. Much was purchased, alot of laughs and ALOT of miles covered from September 30th until October 3rd. But alot of wonderful memories created and will be treasured.

So…grab your favorite beverage and let me tell you all about it.

When I was at a craft fair last year, I noticed some ladies had some copy paper boxes with their names on the box so they wouldn’t get their packages mixed up so I thought that would be a great idea for us to do for this trip. But since this was a cross stitch road trip I decided to put who our favorite designer was or who or what we love to stitch a lot of. So, Carol loves Blackbird Designs so her box said “Blackbird Babe”, Jo Barb loves Prairie Schooler so her box was “Prairie Schooler Princess”, Angie loves snowmen so her box was “snowman hottie”, I love Lizzie Kate and I had a really hard time coming up with something “jazzy” so mine was “Lizzie Kate Fan”. (here is a pic of my box..I forgot to get a pic of everyones).

Wed. Sept. 30th
Angie arrived to pick me up at 7:30 a.m. with her van and off we went to pick up Carol and then Jo Barb so all were picked up as planned by 8:00 a.m. with snacks, stitching bags, suitcases, boxes and the shopping lists!

We decided since we were driving to Tulsa first, (11 hours from here where we are)that to break up the drive that a stop at a LNS in Missouri would be a great idea. So we stopped at CC & Company in Blue Springs, MO. A great little shop, everyone found some goodies and was able to get some things crossed off their lists and I think added a thing or two as well!

After that it was a stop for a quick bite to eat and a fill up of gas and back on the road to Tulsa (a little over 4 hours to go).

We got into Tulsa around 6-6:30 pm and checked into the hotel and ate that night at Cracker Barrel. I did something I had never done before…I ordered breakfast for supper! My DH, Rex, was very proud of me! I guess I only look at breakfast food to be eaten at breakfast time!

Anyway, we went back to the hotel and Angie and I headed over to Jo Barb and Carol’s room and had some show & tell and talked about our lists for the next day.

Thurs. Oct. 1st.

Angie and I have been to the Silver Needle before and told Carol and Jo Barb that when you walk in, it can be a bit overwhelming with everything they have so be prepared. We planned for 2 hours in the shop and I believe we were in there for almost 2 hours. In this stash pic I purchased the new SB box and can’t wait to start stitching it. We all got some great goodies there. Alot was crossed off our lists and I believe some might have been added.

We then peeked around the corner at a quilt shop but only stayed a few minutes as none of us found anything we had to have.

So it was time to move onto Derby, KS to Sunflower Quilts. Sunflower Quilts has a great selection of fabric to choose from and all of us found some goodies to bring back.

We then made a stop at the Goodwill store that was in the shopping center across from Sunflower Quilts because Jo Barb has found quite a few frames at Goodwill for a little bit of nothing so we thought we’d see what they had. Angie ended up finding some frames and Jo Barb found a sweater!

It was still early enough in the day that we arrived in Wichita around 5:00 pm (they were open until 6:00 pm) so we decided to go to Heart’s Desire, to shop and then go back in the morning. I had some LK things waiting for me and I wanted to pick them up. When I ordered the LK items I talked with Joyce who works there and when I placed my order I was telling her about my stitch group’s road trip and I knew she wasn’t going to be working on Friday so that was another reason I wanted to stop, was so I could meet her. She is as delightful in person as she is on the phone. Debbie, the owner of Heart’s Desire was also there so we had a chance to visit with her and what a wonderful lady she is. So I purchased what I had on hold and the other gals put their items on hold until the next day and we were off to check into the hotel and to find a place for dinner.

We ended up at Chili’s that evening and since the day was a long one…we chatted a bit, looked at my stash and called it an early night.

Fri., Oct. 2nd

The hotel we stayed at didn’t have breakfast so Carol suggested Denny’s so that is what we did! After that we headed over to Hen Feathers, a cute little quilt shop that the girls found some fabrics at but I left empty handed. By that time it was 9:30 and I remembered there was a cute little crafty store called Country Bumpkins just up the street from Heart’s Desire so we stopped to look around. I managed to purchase a cute little spider and some chicken poop! Yep, you read right..its for your lips! (contains no poop). I love lip balm and just had to have this! If for nothing else because of the name! When I called DH that night he really didn’t know quite what to say.

Here is the website if anyone is interested: ilovechickenpoop.com

Then it was 10:00 a.m. and off to Heart’s Desire. I managed to pick up some overdyed fabric (café kona, lucky penny, old mill java, and 18th century brown) and also Blackbird Designs Joyeux Noel. Carol had gotten this at another LNS and I had been thinking about getting it so I just decided to just do it and am so glad I did.

Debbie greeted us and the other ladies as well and we seemed to keep them very busy cutting fabric! Everyone at the shop was so helpful and friendly. So the place was very busy since she was having a market party with all the new stuff she came back with from market. It’s a great shop and if you are in the Wichita area stop by you won’t be disappointed..

Debbie then approached me and asked how long we were going to be at the shop and I told her probably another 45 minutes or so and she said she was going to give Linda Ebright a call and see if she could come down to the shop. Well Linda was busy but…Linda told Debbie to give us directions on how to get to her studio and come by. Angie and I were beaming! We didn’t expect that at all! Angie and I decided to keep Jo Barb and Carol in the dark and make it a surprise. Boy was it a surprise. I don’t think they knew what to say when we drove up Linda’s driveway and parked the van and got out!

Linda showed us her storage/warehouse area of her studio (entry level of her studio) where she keeps all her patterns/kits and showed us how she attaches the buttons/embellishments to the patterns/kits. She has only one lady that helps out 3 mornings a week otherwise it’s just her and Alan that do all the work of putting the patterns/kits together. She has someone do the graphic design and a professional photographer as well.

She then showed us the upstairs of her studio where she works at her computer. It’s so bright and cheery with yellow walls, lots of windows and very cozy place. I could definitely see myself stitching up there! She showed us some things she is working on for future release and they are adorable.

She is just a lovely person and it was very kind of her to take some time out of her busy day to share it with us. Below is a pic of us….left to right: me, Angie, Linda, Jo Barb and Carol

So after leaving Linda’s it was onto Topeka to a quilt shop called Stitching Traditions (sorry forgot to take a pic). Carol was able to find a pair of Dovos at an awesome price! She asked what I thought of their scissor selection and prices and I said buy a pair if you want Dovos. Carol knows that Dovos are my favorite scissors ever. So she took the plunge and purchased a pair and was one happy camper because we went to another quilt shop and she found the exact same pair and they were double in price there! I didn’t get any fabric and I think maybe Jo Barb and Angie were the only other ones to purchase anything.

It was still early enough in the day that we could go to The Sunflower Seed as they were open until 5:30 pm and it was only around 4:15 pm. Anita has a really cute little shop and she also designs under “The Sunflower Seed. I picked up some patters and some are in the pics below, I did pick up some patterns that aren’t shown as they are for exchanges and gifts. I did manage to find an adorable sunflower needle case to match my sunflower ort jar I got in a past visit.

I also picked up some small cuts of overdyed fabric for the Blackbird Designs stockings and some small 40 ct. pieces for future projects.

Then it was dinner time so we chose The Texas Roadhouse. I just LOVE their dinner rolls. YUM!

We checked into our hotel and Angie and I went over to Jo Barb and Carol’s room for show and tell and to stitch since we hadn’t done that at all on this trip and tomorrow we were headed back home.

Sat. Oct. 3rd

Our final stop was a quilt shop in Lee’s Summit called Quilter’s Station. Tons and tons of fabric in several rooms. They also have some home décor items, primitive things.

I purchased the Amy Butler Frenchy Bag pattern that was on my list and some home decor things and fabric (fabric is in the fabric pic). I think everyone purchased some goodies.

We then stopped for a fill up of gas and drinks and got back on the road to head home.

On our drive home we decided that a stop in Urbandale at Cold Stone Creamery was a must – a “sweet” way to end a great trip, with great girlfriends!

Sorry for some missed pics, but I did add the web links if there was one, at some shops but hope you enjoyed reading about my road trip.

Happy stitching

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

A Roadtrip Begins Tomorrow!!

2009-09-29T08:25:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow morning my stitch group finally leaves on our cross stitch roadtrip that we have been planning and saving for..for 14 months. We have been planning it for so long and..WOW its finally here. We have stitch group today so I can only imagine what we will be gabbing about!

We are headed to The Silver Needle, Hearts Desire and The Sunflower Seed plus some quilt shops in between!

I will give a full report with pictures when I return on Monday.

Happy stitching to everyone.

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

Autumn Exchange to England Arrives

2009-09-24T08:09:00.000-05:00

Sue e-mailed me and let me know she received her autumn exchange and loves it. This is an exchange from the Exchange Heaven blog. I stitched a freebie design from Erica Michaels and finished it into a pinkeep. I also sent a pretty fat quarter that I think Sue will enjoy as well.

I have gotten all my stitching exchanges complete and am now just waiting for the mailing dates to get alittle closer so I can mail them to their destinations so in the meantime I am working on Margaret's round robin that has arrived and I have some birthday presents that I am also working on.

Our stitch group is getting really excited about our three day roadtrip. We leave next Wednesday. We are going to The Silver Needle, Heart's Desire and The Sunflower Seed, plus 3 quilt shops (I need more fabric! LOLOL). I will be sure to take my camera and give a full report when I return. We have all been looking forward to this trip and been planning and saving for it for over a year!!

Well, thanks for stopping by and happy stitching to you!

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

An Autumn Exchange Received

2009-09-15T06:45:00.001-05:00

My autumn exchange from the Exchange Heaven arrived yesterday and I got the cutest bag from Jane! The design Jane chose she did in blackwork and her work is absolultely fabulous!

Thanks so much Jane I love my exchange very much and will use the bag ALOT!

Lately I have been finishing up my exchanges and now in the process of doing the "finishing" work on them.

Today is stitch group so I plan to work on a birthday gift. So no "info" on that just yet.

Thanks for stopping by and happy stitching to you.

Wendy Jo

A "Home" Exchange

2009-08-31T08:56:00.001-05:00

I participated in a "home" exchange on the Exchange Heaven blog and my partner received her exchange and I have received mine on Saturday afternoon.

I stitched for Maddy and decided to stitch her Heart in Hand's Good to be Home. I had stitched this for the All Seasons Exchange and loved it so much and thought it was perfect for this exchange. I made it into a pincushion and stuff with plastic pellets. I am so glad you like the exchange Maddy...I enjoyed stitching it for you!

Here is a pic:

I received my exchange from Sue in the U.K. and she stitched a lovely design by I think Barbara Ana and made it into a door hanger there is even a cute pocket in back. She also sent me a cute pincusion and some wonderful ribbon which will be great for some Christmas finishing. I see a theme of red here in the exchange...not sure but I am wondering if Sue did this because red is my favorite color..mmmm? I wonder.....LOLOL

Thanks so much Sue..I love the whole exchange very much!!

A birthday and a start of my RR!

2009-08-28T09:22:00.000-05:00

I hear from Rita that my birthday present to her arrived and she is very happy! Rita loves anything autumn so I stitched her an autumn leave scissor fob by Heart in Hand and sent some other goodies as well. Here are some pics:

I joined my first RR recently and I finished up my section of it and wanted to share it. It's called "An Emblem of Love" by Ellen Chester. I decided to stitch it on 36 ct. White Edinborough, over 2, and use WDW Wavy Navy. I think it turned out well. Margaret's piece will be on the way to me shortly so I am excited to stitch on her piece as she is doing hers in red!

Now mine will will travel to Edgar's house next month for him to stitch a section. Then once he is finished he will send it on to the next person for them to stitch a section, etc. I am really excited to see this progress through the months and look forward to it returning at the end of May.

I just think the whole idea of a round robin is so neat, having others from all around the world stitch on your piece and you stitch on theirs and knowing when it comes back home to you that its been all over the world in different homes, its just really neat! I am going to ask each of the RR members to put their initials somewhere on the section they stitched. Carol R. is having us do that on her's and I thought that was a great idea so I am doing as is Margaret too.

I also noticed while stitching my initials over 1, that my diopeter lens (1.75) on my daylight is not strong enough for over 1 on 36 ct anymore so I plan to purchase a stronger lens next month when I hit the road with my stitch group for our roadtrip. Not sure what strength I will get but I just know I need a stronger one!

This weekend I am going to work on a birthday gift and start work on another exchange so I have my weekend stitching plans all set!

I do hope everyone has a great weekend and thanks for stopping by. I do appreciate it.

Take care and happy stitching,
Wendy Jo

A Birthday and Exchanges

2009-08-24T08:45:00.000-05:00

I have sent a birthday exchange to Ina and it has been received and opened and she is one happy birthday girl! So I can now show a picture of what I sent her.

I stitched her a scissor fob from Drawn Thread called Pumpkin Keeper and included a JCS magazine, some tea (she loves tea) and some other goodies as well.

Happy birthday Ina!!

I participated in the Summer House exchange on the HoE blog and Chris H. in the U.K. finally received my exchange. I was getting really worried as the package decided to take the long about route to her house..but it arrived and she is very happy :)

I used the freebie design from LHN "Summer House" but used threads from LHN "Daisy" and added some dragonflys to the design as well. Here is a pic:

I also participated in the ASOE's Stitcher's Choice exchange and stitched for Jayne P.

I decided to stitch her Heart in Hand's "Good to be Home". I thought it was something she could display all year long if she chose to. Here is a pic:

I have been busy the past week working on exchanges and this past weekend I worked on my first RR, called "An Emblem of Love". I am really enjoying this. I will be able to post a pic of my section I stitched very soon.

Thanks everyone for stopping by..I do appreciate the comments.

Happy stitching.

Wendy Jo

Exchanges and a Birthday Gift

2009-08-04T08:54:00.000-05:00

Jayne P. was my partner for the Summer House exchange in the HoE exchanging group and in the Stitcher's Choice exchange in the All Seasons Ornament Exchange so I received those yesterday in the mail.

I love the scissor case she stitch for me for the summer house exchange and she even included a lovely pair of scissors!

I look forward to putting the Christmas ornament on my tree this year.

Thanks so much Jayne I really love both my exchanges very much.

Here are pics:

Carol S. e-mailed me that the birthday present I sent her arrived safe and sound so I can now share the pic of what I made for her. I decided to stitch her a pincushion from Blue Ribbon Designs Patriotic Patchwork pattern called "Pins" and sent along a box of pins.

I hope you had a great birthday Carol!!
Here is a pic:

I wanted to say thank so much for everyone stopping by. I have been reading the comments and wanted to say how much I appreciate them. I have been stitching on a couple of Lizzie Kate designs and will be gearing up to start a RR called "An Emblem of Love" soon and am very excited as this will be my very first RR.

Wishing everyone happy stitching.

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

HoE Christmas in July Arrives in Singapore

2009-07-16T10:33:00.000-05:00

Jean has received her Christmas in July that I sent her and I am very happy as I was getting a bit worried.

I decided to stitch her a design from JBW Designs Red Mitten Collection I and finished it as an ornament in the shape of a mitten.

I looked at Jean's wishlist and purchased a pattern off her list, Plumb Pudding's Candy Cane Wishes and included some overdyed threads as well.

I am glad Jean likes her package I really enjoyed stitching and shopping for her.

Here are some pics:

I have been busy the last few days working on exchanges so can't show any pics yet.

Thanks for stopping by.

Happy stitching.

Wendy Jo

Christmas in July from Lynn B.

2009-07-09T08:48:00.000-05:00

I participated in the Christmas in July exchange on the Hooked on Exchanging blog and I received a wonderful package from Lynn B. in England earlier this weekend and I just love the adorable Prairie Schooler snowman she stitched up for me. Lynn added a cute little Christmas tree on the bottom of the ornament and a heart on the top that says "hand made with love" which I thought was really a nice touch too. Lynn also included some wonderful Christmas charms, some Christmas fabric, cording, a leaflet from DMC with patterns in it and some scented DMC floss that I have never seen before and am anxious to try.

Thanks very much for a wonderful exchange Lynn..I really love my package.

The ornament I sent should arrive at its destination shortly. It had quite a journey to make so hopefully I will be able to show pictures soon.

Thanks for stopping by.

Happy stitching,
Wendy Jo

A Patriotic Package and A Patriotic Finish

2009-07-01T16:39:00.000-05:00

I received a box from Deb this afternoon and I had a feeling it probably was my patriotic exchange from the Friends through Friends exchange as I was expecting it any day now.

Boy when I opened the box everything was wrapped up so nice with red, white and blue ribbon (forgot to take a pic of that). Inside the box was a beautifully stitched fob and matching floss tag. Deb stitched me the same design I stitched for Jill (Littlehouse Needleworks' Liberty and Justice) and, obviously, I love it! She stitched both over 1 on 32 ct. lambswool and used the recommended DMC floss. Deb sent a pair of scissors and added thread drops to the floss tag and the drops have stars on them which is so cute.

Also in the package was a pincushion Deb made, very cute, some jelly belly candy in cherry, blueberry and buttered popcorn, yum, and last..but not least a charm pack of Moda fabric called Zippity Do Da! LOVE IT!

So thanks very much Deb for a wonderful package. I will enjoy it all alot!

Here are some pics:

I didn't get around to posting what I was going to start stitching when I finished up my Christmas in July for my HoE exchange but here it is finished. It's Lizzie Kate's Sweet Liberty. It was a limited edition kit from last year's market I believe. I will probably get it framed at some point.

I plan to stitch some more patriotic things this month but I also have a couple of gifts that I will need to start working on that need to get out later this month and an exchange for the All Seasons Ornament Exchange blog that needs to be out the middle of the August.

Well, I wish all my USA friends a wonderful 4th of July and all my overseas friends a wonderful rest of the week and weekend.

Thanks so much for stopping by.

Wendy Jo

Patriotic Exchange to Jill is Received!

2009-06-25T11:10:00.001-05:00

Jill has received the patriotic exchange I sent her. It was the exchange I particpated in on Friends Through Threads. I chose Liberty and Justice by Littlehouse Needleworks as my pattern and finished it into a pinkeep.

I also included some patriotic goodies and things that Jill had on her wishlist.

I am glad Jill loves her package. It was a fun exchange to put together.

Here are a couple of pics:

Today I plan to finish putting together my Christmas in July exchange on the HoE blog and getting that in the mail tomorrow as it has quite a journey to make. After that it will be back to doing some patriotic stitching although I am not sure what to stitch...I have several patterns out and can't decide...decisions..decisions! I will let you know what I decide on.

Until then...thanks for stopping by.

Wendy Jo

Blackbird Designs Exchange Arrives!

2009-06-11T16:35:00.000-05:00

My Blackbird Designs exchange on the Friends Through Friends blog arrived from Ronel in South Africa this afternoon. Ronel stitched me a design from the pattern called Small Token and finished it into a stunning needlebook. She stitched the design on 30 ct. off white Irish linen over two. She changed the colors and I love the colors she chose for the design. The fabric on the needlebook is lovely as well...love the flowers. Ronel also stitched a sweet matching scissor fob, that has already found a pair of scissors to call home :)

Ronel included some floss rings that I can attach to the needlebook if I want, which I think I just may do that. Ronel also made some pins for the book that are just gorgeous! She also made a neat necklace that says "Little Black Bird" on one side and on the other side has my name and Ronel's which I think is such a special treasure. I just love that! Ronel included other extras as well that I will definitely be able to use.

Thank you so very much Ronel for this wonderful exchange! I absolutely love everything you sent!

Here are some pics of my exchange.

A Great Roadtrip!

2009-05-27T08:29:00.000-05:00

Yesterday my stitch group (5 of us: Jo Barb, Angie, Carol, Jo and I) went on a roadtrip. We try to go somewhere in the spring and in the fall. So we decided we would go to Stitches n Stuff in Clinton, Iowa where we have been many times. Its a great little LNS, if you are ever in the area. (Its really the only shop in the area). We left home around 9:00 a.m. and arrived shortly after it opened at 10:00 a.m. Everyone pretty much had a list and set off about their shopping. I didn't have much on my list. I am on automatic for the BBD stockings so I was glad to see the April Showers in. I just love this one. I also love the HIHN chart I got. I did the What Makes Winter and wanted What Makes Spring to go with it. I am waiting for the new Lizzie Kates and Heart in Hand patterns to come in next month so didn't purchase much yesterday in the way of cross stitch for myself (I did purchase for exchanges, so can't show that).

We left the LNS about 11:30 and headed to a quilt shop that Angie liked called Sewing Machines & More. What a great little shop! Oh my! The minute I walked in and noticed all the Moda fabric I knew I would probably be in just alittle bit of trouble and...well...I did just alittle bit of damage :) What can I say...they had Moda fabric!!!! LOLOL We left there about noon and headed to Davenport for lunch at Chick-fil-A.

After lunch a trip to Michaels (I was good didn't buy anything), then to a cute little craft shop (bought something for an exchange, can't show) and then to Hobby Lobby (I didn't buy anything) and headed on home in a downpour of rain. We had a great time and everyone was really happy with their purchases.

This fall we have decided to take a three day trip. We are going to The Silver Needle, The Heart's Desire and The Sunflower Seed with some stops at some quilt shops in between as well. So we are all making are wishlists and saving our money for that.

Here are the pics of my purchases. I did purchase other things yesterday but they are for exchanges I have coming up, so I can't show those.

Today I am going to finish my patriotic exchange. Hope everyone has a great day and thanks for stopping by!

Wendy Jo

Blackbird Designs Exchange for Cathy B!

2009-05-26T07:40:00.000-05:00

Cathy B. has received my exchange I sent her. The theme was Blackbird Designs. I decided to stitch a design from the book Thank You, Sarah Tobias. The pattern is Pins & Tulips. I stitched the pincushion and decided to stitch a scissor fob to match as Cathy put a pair of scissors down on her wishlist.

I stuffed the pincushion with rice which I think turned out pretty good (first time using rice as I have always used fiber fill). I also followed the instructions of dyeing white ric rac with tan rit dye. I think it turned out pretty good (pic below). It was my first attempt at using dye so I was a wee bit nervous.

I also sent Cathy some fabric and needles as that was on her wishlist as well. Here are some pics:

I am glad you like your exchange Cathy, I enjoyed stitching for you!

My Tuesday stitch group is going on a roadtrip today to Clinton, Iowa to a LNS called Stitches n Stuff. I have a small list so we will see what I come home with.

Thanks for stopping by.

Wendy Jo

A Crazy Exchange & Birthday Gift Sent & Received!

2009-04-24T07:29:00.000-05:00

I sent a crazy exchange to Laurie last week and she has received it and loves it. I decided on Heart in Hand's Wee Ones "Flowers" and finished it into a pinkeep.

I am so glad you like it Laurie..its such a fun one to stitch for you.

In the crazy exchange group, Simone and I partnered up as birthday buddies. Her birthday is in early May, so I sent it on its way early and it has arrived! I think it took only a week!

For Simone's birthday present, I looked at her wishlist and she wanted scissors and I know she loves Littlehouse Needleworks so I thought I would take the "needle" pattern from Traveling Stitcher, change it to say "scissors" and make a scissor keep and include the scissors! I also changed the colors to a deep red since Simone loves the color red. I also included extras that were on her wishlist.

I am so happy that Simone loves her birthday package. I wish you a very happy birthday my friend!!

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend. Thanks for stopping by.

Wendy Jo

Patti's PIF and Birthday Gift

2009-04-16T08:23:00.000-05:00

I received an e-mail from Patti that the P.I.F. (Pay It Forward) and birthday gift I sent her had arrived. I wanted to stitch Patti a design from Blackbird Designs since that is a designer she likes. The pattern is Buttons & Pins. I did make some changes and finished it into a pinkeep.

Patti has a birthday at the end of the month and I wanted to send something to her so I purchased SB's 2009 scissor fob kit that was on her wishlist and I loved it so much I got one for myself! LOL

Glad you like the PIF Patti I enjoyed stitching it for you and a very Happy Birthday to you too!

Today I will be putting together my crazy exchange and hopefully mailing that in the next day or two. I am also in the process of finishing up another birthday package. No pics on either but hope to be able to share those soon.

Hope everyone has a great day and thanks for stopping by and thank you for the wonderful compliments. I appreciate them very much.

Happy Stitching,
Wendy Jo

A Christmas Package and A Swap!

2009-04-11T09:04:00.000-05:00

My dear friend Carol had sent me a Christmas package at Christmas time and after several weeks of it not arriving and figuring it got lost in the mail system she restitched the Christmas cracker for me and it arrived yesterday. I absolutely love it! Carol's stitching is outstanding! I already have a few of her "treasures" and am so happy to add this one to the collection! Now, Carol didn't stop there..she added a lovely pair of scissors with an adorable Swaroski crystal fob she made. Some lovely red gingham ribbon, 32 ct fabric, sewing fabric, pins, trim and all in an adorable box!

Thanks so much Carol for the wonderful Christmas package!

Here are some pics:

Then if that wasn't enough I also received my swap from the Swap with Nina. Talk about a "wow" moment...I had that and then some! Anikó sent me quite a package. Anikó stitched me a gorgeous pinkeep with a scissor pocket with scissors, pincushion and scissor fob all on 32 ct. Murano evenweave fabric over 1 using DMC. I believe Anikó said it was a little piece from Blue Royal by AMAP. Everything coordinates so beautifully. The very middle of the pinkeep matches the button of the pincushion and matches one side of the scissor fob. The other side of the fob has my initial "W" (I have a pic below).

Anikó included a wonderful pair of scissors. I had seen these scissors on numerous blogs and had always said "I gotta get a pair of those.." well..now I have a pair!

Thank you so very much Anikó for a wonderful swap, I absolutely adore these wonderful treasures.

My swap went to Julcsi in Hungary. I checked out her blog to see her likes and dislikes and decided to stitch her a scissor fob in pastels since she likes pastel colors. I went with "Easter" by Trail Creek Farms. Julcsi e-mailed me that she received my fob and likes it very much.
Here is a pic:

A couple of days ago I mailed my P.I.F. to my friend Patti. So I am looking forward to her receiving that in the next week or so. Then I can share pics of that.

I hope everyone has a wonderful Easter weekend. I plan to spend as much of the weekend as I can stitching on my crazy exchange and Friends through Threads blackbird designs exchange.

On Sunday Rex and I are taking my mom out to a Sunday brunch. So we are looking forward to that. I love a great brunch!

Take care and thanks for stopping by.

Wendy Jo

All Seasons Ornament Exchange Sent To Maggee

2009-04-06T08:15:00.001-05:00

Maggee e-mailed me before I went on a min-vacation to Arkansas that she received the spring exchange I sent her and she loves it. I stitched her Tulip Scissor Companion by Ewe & Eye & Friends. Maggee likes the color pink so I changed the colors a bit.

Enjoy the ornament Maggee! It was a fun stitch!

A Spring Exchange Arrives

2009-03-28T08:47:00.000-05:00

Maggee and I were paired for a spring exchange on the All Seasons Exchange blog and Maggee's exchange arrived yesterday. She stitched me LK's freebie called Hello Spring. I just love it the cute little purple heart buttons she added.

I can't show pics of Maggee's exchange quite yet as it will be mailed on Monday.

Thanks for a great exchange Maggee!

DT Exchange Arrived in Germany

2009-03-27T08:24:00.001-05:00

Brigitte e-mailed to let me know she received the package I sent her. It was the DT exchange we did on the Friends Through Threads blog. She said she was thrilled with the entire package so, of course, that made my day!

The pattern I chose is from Too Tiny Sampler. I decided to finish it in my customary way...as a pinkeep. I looked at Brigitte's wishlist and noticed she wanted some ribbon, fabric and notecards I thought I'd send those along as goodies.

Here are some pics:

A Crazy Exchange From The Netherlands

2009-03-25T08:49:00.000-05:00

I received my return exchange from Ina in the Netherlands yesterday. Ina stitched me a gorgeous biscournu! I must say I don't have very many biscournus, So I was happy to have another one to add to my collection.

Ina also sent some goodies as well.

Thanks Ina for a wonderful exchange.

Drawn Thread Exchange Arrives From Germany

2009-03-24T08:24:00.000-05:00

My Friends through Threads exchange arrived last night from Kerstin. We were doing a Drawn Thread exchange. Kerstin stitched me Spot of Spring and finished it into a lovely little pillow, adding ribbon with a bow and heart saying "made with love". I just love it. Kerstin also sent some "spring" themed goodies. A lovely pattern with bunnies and spring flowers, a butterfly ornament, a skein of pastel thread and some iron on woven labels.

Thanks so much Kerstin for a wonderful exchange.

2009-03-18T09:48:00.000-05:00

Simone awarded me for the Kreativ Blogger Award! Thanks so much Simone!!

Here's what to do:

1. Copy the logo of the Kreativ Blogger Award in to your blog
2. Make a link to the person's blog who nominated you
3. Nominate 8 other blogs
4. Add their links to your blog
5. Leave a comment on the blogs, that they have been awarded

These are the 8 blogs I'm nominating for the Award:
Patti
Rita
Carol R.
Sonda
Taija
Kath
Nina
Simone

Taija Receives My Exchange

2009-03-18T09:18:00.000-05:00

Taija e-mailed me today that she has received my exchange and she is very happy with it. I stitched a freebie by Trail Creek Farms called "Spring". I finished it into a scissor fob. I also sent a scissor sack and sewing fabric.

Here are some pics of the exchange.

Crazy Exchange from The Netherlands

2009-03-06T08:12:00.001-06:00

My crazy exchange from Caroline arrived yesterday and I love the lunch bag that she made for me.

Caroline said she used reproduction dutch fabrics from a town in the Netherlands called Hindeloppen. Caroline said the women there still wear or use these fabrics in their traditional costumes. I like it that Caroline choose special fabric to make my lunch bag. It gives it a special meaning.

Here is a pic of the exchange. I now have something to carry my snacks and drink in for my Tuesday stitch group. Thanks so much Caroline!!!

You may wonder why I got something quilted and not stitched. The members of the crazy exchange blog are quilters, embroiderers and stitchers. Another reason I really like participating in this group, lots of different talented gals!

Thanks so much Caroline!

Crazy Exchange from Taija!

2009-03-02T08:13:00.000-06:00

Being a member of the Crazy Exchange blog is alot of fun. You know you are getting an exchange because an "x" is put beside you name in the database by the person sending to you but you don't know who it is until it arrives. Well, mine arrived on Saturday all the way from Finland!

Taiji sent a cute little pillow! I just love the twine she used, it goes so perfect with the saying. Taija also sent some wonderful extras. All will be put to great use.

Thanks so much Taija. I have already pulled threads, fabric and design and will start stitching yours this afternoon.

Here are some pics of the lovely exchange:

The mailman has been good to me the last couple of days!

2009-02-21T07:34:00.001-06:00

I participated in the Valentine Exchange on the Hooked on Exchanging blog. Mercy stitched a cute design by Shepherd's Bush and made it into a long pillow which looks absolutely adorable! She sent oodles of extras, all which are fabulous and will be put to great use!

Thanks so much Mercy for a awesome exchange..I love everything you sent.

Here are some pics:

An Award and A Birthday Present!

2009-02-20T08:17:00.000-06:00

Carol nominated me for the Special Friends Award and "Love" Pendant. The description for this award reads "These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to be friends. They are not interested in self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these kind of writers. When you pass this award along please include these guidelines. I am to choose eight friends to share this with".

Carol and I have first met through Hooked on Exchanging and began communicating and since then we have shared much time visiting about all sorts of things stitching and home life. Thanks very much for the award Carol.

My nominations are people whose blogs and stitching inspire me and have thus become friends are:

1. Patti
2. Rita
3. Kath
4. Julie (no blog)
5. Lori U. (no blog)
6. Lynne W. (no blog)
7. Brenda M. (no blog)
No. 8 goes back to Carol!

I am in a birthday exchange with Rita, who lives in Hungary, on the Crazy Exchange group and my birthday present arrived yesterday and I just love everything Rita sent. The pinkeep is absolutely adorable and I just love the saying on it. Rita said this was her first pinkeep and she did an amazing job on it. Rita also sent some cappuccino, bon bons, ribbon, thread rings, and a bookmark. A really wonderful package. Thanks so much Rita!

Here are some pics:

I've been tagged and exchanges to show!

2009-02-13T07:51:00.000-06:00

Patti has tagged me and these are the rules:

1. Each blogger starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves.

2. People who are tagged need to write their own blog about their eight things and post these rules.

3. At the end of your blog post, you need to choose people to get tagged and list their names.

4. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them they’re tagged and to read your blog.

5. For the recipients, leave a comment for the person who tagged you, so they can go and read your answers.

Here are mine:
1. I eat my cereal dry…no milk..icky!

2. I put ice in just about all my drinks and I water down juices. I just don’t like the taste of “full” strength juice.

3. I don’t like going to get my hair cut. I like my hairdresser, she’s very nice and does a great job on my hair, but very hard to find a topic to chat about.

4. I rarely have more than one project going at once when I am stitching. I am a “one project at a time gal”.

5. I am a Bath & Body junkie…I have tons of different soaps and lotions…love taking bubble baths.

6. I love driving in the rain…a light rain, I find it relaxing.

7. I love to grocery shop. I always have a list, coupons and store ad in hand and I love going up and down each isle, browsing and shopping away!

8. I LOVE kitchen towels! I would hate to count how many I have but I just love them!

Ok I tag:
Joke
Iris
Simone

Now...I sent out 2 crazy exchanges recently and they have arrived at their new homes, both in the Netherlands!

I sent Caroline a snowman, a freebie pattern from Glory Bee called "Winter" and...I finished it into a pillow! Not my customary pinkeep! I had gotten a little sewing machine shortly after Christmas and I have made 2 pillows! I am a wee bit proud of myself as I don't think they turned out too badly and both Caroline and Ina are very happy with them so I am quite pleased.

Here is a pic of Caroline's pillow:

I sent Ina a snowman as well, its a pattern from Bent Creek called "Snowflakes" Here is a pic:

Hope everyone has a nice weekend and thanks for visiting.

Wendy Jo

My winter ornament from Gaby

2009-02-06T09:42:00.000-06:00

I joined the All Seasons Ornament Exchange and my winter ornament from Gaby arrived yesterday. She stitched me a new German freebie. Gaby changed the colors to more reds/pinks instead of the blue the pattern called for since I love red. Gaby also added beading to the edges and it is absolutely gorgeous. I love the ornament very much.

Thanks so much Gaby!

Here are a couple of pics:

I've Been Tagged!!!!

2009-02-05T08:22:00.000-06:00

Patti has tagged me which means I need to share five addictions I have...mmm, well in no partcular order, (except the first one!) they are:

1. Stitching
2. Fabric shops (gotta love those fat quarters!)
3. Ben & Jerry’s Peanut Butter Cup ice cream
4. Music (soft rock, some country)..love listening it, especially when stitching
5. Reading magazines..I have TONS of subscriptions

Now I need to tag 5 people and I have chosen:

1. Kath
2. Simone
3. Stacy
4. Sonda
5. Marlies

I also want to mention I am still looking for 2 more stitchers to stitch for my P.I.F. (Pay It Forward). Please post a comment in this post if you are interested in me stitching something for you this year. You will then need to post on your blog and recruit three members to also send gifts to - thus, it is PIF (Pay It Forward).. if you sign up, you have to post on your blog and take sign ups.

Thanks for visiting.

Wendy Jo

Edgar's Valentine Exchange Arrives in San Francisco!

2009-01-29T07:57:00.000-06:00

I got a lovely e-mail from Edgar that his valentine exchange arrived safe and sound and he loves it!

The design, A Needleworker's Pocket by With My Needle, came from The JCS ornament issue from 2003. I finished it in my customary way...as a pinkeep! I also sent Edgar some various overdyed threads, a fat quarter, and since he loves dark chocolate I sent that as well.

Here are some pics:

My LK to Stacy B. Arrives

2009-01-24T08:54:00.000-06:00

I received an e-mail from Stacy that she got my package and she loves everything I sent. She especially loves the design I choose as she's been going through a tough time lately and the pinkeep really touched her.

I choose a LK design from her double flip its she had out a couple of years ago called "Dream". I changed some colors to go with the fabric I wanted to use for the back. I also sent Stacy LK's Crazy A-B-C, some Piecemaker needles and a skein WDW thread.

I am so happy Stacy loves the package and I know she will enjoy it very much.

Here are some pics:

LK Exchange from the HoE Blog

2009-01-22T12:54:00.001-06:00

I joined the LK exchange on the HoE blog and today I received my exchange from Jill F..

The whole package has the Americana theme since I love anything Americana so I was just tickled by everything. Talk about feeling spoiled!

Jill stitched LK's God Bless America and finished it into a pillow/pincushion. It is absolutely fabulous! Jill said this was the first one she has ever made but I really could not tell at all..her finishing is wonderful.

Jill also sent one of her marking/counting pins and its gorgeous.

Thanks so much Jill. The package is awesome!

Here are some pics of what I all got.

Birthday gift from Simone in The Netherlands Arrives

2009-01-21T08:05:00.001-06:00

My birthday package from Simone arrived last night and I really love what she sent.

Simone stitched a cute Bent Creek design that she said can be used as either a wall hanging or pillow and since I don't have any pillows right now that is how I will display it. Simone also sent some red checked fabric, a great Americana pattern and some great pins for finishing.

Thanks so much Simone for a lovely birthday package!

Here are some pics:

A surprise birthday gift from Ohio!

2009-01-20T08:28:00.001-06:00

A very good stitching friend of mine, Lori U. in Ohio (no blog), sent me a birthday package which totally surprised me! Lori was my first internet stitching friend. We have been friends for I think about 10 years now. She sent lots of goodies that I will put to very good use.

Thanks so much Lori!

Here is a pic of the package:

A birthday gift from Ina in the Netherlands

2009-01-17T09:34:00.000-06:00

I am participating in the birthday exchange on the crazy exchange group and one of my 3 partners is Ina in the Netherlands. Ina sent me a wonderful package that I received on Thursday. She stitched me a wonderful wall hanging that I put up in the entry way and then sent a dutch cross stitch magazine, RED scissors that I started using that I love, some floss, candy, and other goodies..here is a pic of the package:

Thanks so much Ina...I love everything!

A birthday has come and gone!

2009-01-13T07:35:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was my birthday and I received a lovely envelope from Carol S. Carol stitched me Patriotic Snowman by Waxing Moon Designs. Carol picked a perfect design for me because I love snowmen and I love anything Americana. She made it into a floss tag and on the back she put her initials and mine.

Thanks so very much for remembering me Carol. I love the floss tag and have threads on it right now.

Here are some pics:

Presents sent and a surprise received and I was an angel!

2008-12-30T19:19:00.000-06:00

Two of my dear friends had birthdays in December so not only did they receive birthday gifts but also Christmas gifts at the same time! First up...........

Carol R. in the U.K. I stitched Carol a design by Pine Mountain Designs called "Friendship is the Sweetest Flower". I found some fabric in my stash that I really liked and changed the colors the chart called for to coordinate with the fabric and finished it into a pinkeep. I also sent Carol some of her favorite chocolate. She mentioned in one of our chats that she loves midnight milky ways so I sent those. Here's a pic of her birthday package:

For her Christmas gift I choose a CCN design from this year's JCS ornament issue and finished it as a pinkeep. I also sent a fat quarter and a scissor sack. (I meant to also take a picture of the back of the pinkeep as I put my initials and Carol's and the year 2008 with snowflakes, but I forgot.) Here is a pic of her Christmas package:

Kath in New Zealand loves Shepherd's Bush! So I just had to stitch her something SB for her birthday. I wasn't sure if Kath already had this pattern but even if she did I didn't think she had it as a floss tag and knew she'd be tickled (which she was). I stitched "Keep a Happy Heart" for her. I attached some crescent colors as well, another favorite of Kath's and some of my favorite soap from Bath and Body Works called Cherry Blossom. Here are some pics:

For Christmas, I stitched up "Noel" by Trail Creek Farms and finished it as a pinkeep. I sent along a fat quarter and some of my favorite candy..Andes peppermint thins..absolutely scrumptious! Here is a pic:

Both Carol and Kath loved their packages and I was so happy they arrived safe and sound and they are so pleased...I enjoyed stitching those treasures for them!

Then I was very happily surprised by the mailman on Christmas Eve. I got a lovely parcel from Irmeli in Finland, who I meant when I stitched for her in the HoE Christmas exchange. I was so surprised to receive a lovely sewn red heart and Finnish chocolate! The heart is on our Christmas tree and will then be kept out since Valentine's Day is right around the corner. The chocolate was absolutely delicious! Irmeli also sent a lovely postcard with a picture of her hometown and it is so beautiful...an absolutely gorgeous place..I was ready to hop a plane! LOL

Here are some pics: (The wording on the chocolate is kinda hard to read but it is in Finnish and means Merry Christmas in English.)

Thanks so much Irmeli. You are such a sweetheart!

I was an angel stitcher on the HoE blog for the Christmas ornament exchange. Gwen's partner has mailed her ornament to Gwen but it hasn't surfaced yet..it is somewhere in the mail system so I stepped in and stitched up a LK design from the Tiny Tidings XIII leaflet. I sent Gwen some overdyed threads, a fat quarter and some yummy Peppermint Joys that I found this winter that I just love! Here are some pics:

I am so glad you like your package Gwen..enjoy!

Christmas Round on F&S

2008-12-08T08:20:00.000-06:00

Karen D. and I were exchange partners for the Christmas Round on the Fair & Square Blog. Karen stitched me Heartfelt Harvey by Imaginating, Inc. from Just Cross Stitch's 2008 ornament issue. I love snowmen so Karen stitched the perfect square for me! Thanks so much Karen!

Here's a pic:

I stitched Karen Jolly Holiday from Lizzie Kate's Tiny Tidings XIII. Here is a pic:

PIF (Paying It Forward)

2008-12-03T09:37:00.000-06:00

I signed up on Carol's blog for her PIF (paying if forward) so now I need to stitch for 3 people.

If you are unfamiliar on how the PIF works..here are the rules:

1. If you want to sign up, just leave a comment here telling me you want to sign up.

2. I will send you something stitched/handmade within the year of 2009.

3. You will need to post a note similar to this on your blog and recruit three members to also send gifts to - thus, it is PIF (Pay It Forward).. if you sign up, you have to post on your blog and take sign ups.

Let the fun begin!

HoE Christmas Ornament Received

2008-11-23T09:03:00.000-06:00

I received my Christmas ornament from Sharon C. on the HoE blog. Sharon stitched me a design taken from Sisters & Best Friends-Buddies. I love snowmen so I can leave this out past Christmas and enjoy it.

Sharon also sent some goodies. Below are some pics of my package.

Thanks so much Sharon. I love my ornament and the goodies too!

Ornament Exchange on the HoE blog arrives in Finland!

2008-11-20T19:11:00.000-06:00

I got a lovely e-mail from Irmeli P. in Finland that my Christmas ornament exchange arrived to her safe and sound and she is overjoyed by the whole package which made my day!

The ornament I decided to stitch for her was from the 2008 JCS ornament issue by Country Cottage Needleworks. I chose this design because Irmeli loves snowmen, the color blue and she loves CCN! So this was simply the perfect design for her and she can leave it out way past Christmas and enjoy it.

I also sent her a reindeer scissor fob that I stitched up as she also likes reindeer. I also included some fabric cuts, a scissor sack, threads and material. Here are some pics of what I sent Irmeli.

Glad you loved your package Irmeli!

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

Christmas Exchange on the Crazy Exchange Received

2008-11-18T08:07:00.000-06:00

Bianca in the Netherlands let me know she received the Christmas ornament I sent her for the exchange and she really likes it.

I stitched her a design from JBW's Christmas Keepsakes II and used Vikki Clayton silks that I received in an exchange and enjoyed using them. Here is a pic. (I had also sent her a scissor sack but forgot to include that in the pic. Should have had that second cup of coffee!)

Christmas Ornament Exchange on the Crazy Exchange Blog

2008-11-13T09:54:00.000-06:00

I participated in a Christmas exchange and I received a lovely Christmas ornament yesterday from Teresa in Australia. I just love snowmen and Teresa couldn't have picked a better design to stitch for me. Teresa also sent a handmade card that is a decoration all on its own! I really love them both.

here are some pics:

Thanks so much Teresa.

Floss Tag Exchange on the HoE Blog

2008-11-06T19:38:00.000-06:00

I have been busy working on some Christmas exchanges and gifts and have been slacking in the posting dept. on my blog.

I received a lovely floss tag from Marie P. and I absolutely love it. I already have my floss for my current project on it and am using my new scissors from Marie as well!! She sent me 2 fat quarters which I know I am going to find some good use for, plus needles, threads and buttons..she really sent some great treats!

Thanks so much Marie. I love my floss tag and goodies!!

Here are some pics:

I stitched for Shay T. and choose a design by Stitchy Kitty called Stitch and Bee Happy. The actual leaflet is called Lives to Stitch. I also included some goodies. Here are some pics:

A lovely gift from a dear friend and 2 exchanges

2008-10-21T07:22:00.000-05:00

My dear friend, Carol R. sent me a little package "just because". I love the little pinkeep, stitched over one! Plus she made me a matching floss tag and sent me some of her thread drops, which have my name on them and on the reverse side are birds...very very beautiful. I tried to get a decent pic of the birds but not sure my camera is cooperating with me this morning!

Thanks so much Carol. I love my "just because" package. It made my day very bright!

I also received 2 exchanges from the Fair & Square blog. The first is from the Autumn Round. Heidi and I exchanged and here are pics. I stitched her Autumn Spots by The Trilogy.

The other exchange was the Thanksgiving Round and Darla and I exchanged. I stitched her Thanksgiving Spots by The Trilogy and she stitched me "I Am So Thankful" By Trail Creek Farms.

Thanks Heidi and Darla...I love my squares and can't wait to make them into pinkeeps.

Hooked on Exchange-Halloween Exchange

2008-10-07T07:50:00.000-05:00

I participated in the halloween exchange on the HoE blog and I had Valerie in CA to stitch for. I decided to stitch Valerie a design by Homespun Elegance that was featured in the Just Cross Stitch October, 2006 issue in which they dedicated the entire issue to halloween.

I also included some patterns on Valerie's wishlist and some other goodies as well.

Here are some pics of what I all sent Valerie.

I received my halloween exchange yesterday from Sonda in Oregon and Sonda sent me a lovely Quaker pinkeep. The design is from Sampler Girl called "Quaker Boo". Sonda stitched it using Carrie's Creation's Halloween and DMC and stitched it on "bone" lugana! Sonda also stiched an adorable scissor fob as well! Then Sonda included some Peep's, Halloween socks, a cute Halloween message holder, package of tissues, and 2 pieces of fabric.

Thanks so much Sonda...I really love the entire package!

Here are some pics of my package:

Exchanges from The Netherlands and Malaysia

2008-10-06T09:12:00.000-05:00

In the Crazy Exchange group we had an autumn exchange and Jacqueline from The Netherlands and I exchanged. I stitched her Heart in Hand's Pumpkins and finished it into a pinkeep. I also sent her a scissor sack. Here is a pic:

Jacqueline made me a lovely wall hanging and sent some lovely ribbon as well. Here are some pics:

In the Hooked on Exchanging group we had a Prairie Schooler exchange and I sent to Carolyn in Texas. I choose a design from Autumn Leaves and made it into a fob. I also sent Carolyn a pattern off her wishlist and some other goodies as well. Here are some pics:

Lillie from Malaysia had me and sent me a beautiful needlebook and some lovely goodies as well. Here are some pics:

Squares to share from Fair & Square Blog

2008-09-24T08:05:00.000-05:00

I have a couple of pics to share from 2 rounds I recently participated in.

The first is from round #9. Janice M. stitched me a portion of a Loose Feathers chart by Blackbird Designs that Janice believes is called Strawberry Garden. She stitched it in my favorite color of red. I really love it and plan to make it into a pinkeep. Here is a pic:

I stitched Janice a design by The Trilogy called Four Seasons. Here is a pic:

I also participated in the Halloween round and had Karen R. in Australia as a partner. Karen stitched me a portion of When Witches go Riding” by Prairie Schooler, which I will make into a pinkeep. Then she stitched me a gorgeous fob by Blackbird Designs in the book of “Trix or Treats”. Here is a pic:

For Karen's squares I stitched Halloween Spots by The Trilogy. Here is a pic:

A Chook from New Zealand

2008-08-29T08:17:00.000-05:00

I knew I had something coming from Margaret in New Zealand since I recently sent a crazy exchange to her, so when a box arrived from New Zealand last night I was rather anxious to tear into it and see what was in it.

About all I could get out was "oh my God" I was speechless. The stitching is absolutely amazing...as you can see...I took alot of pics because I wanted to show off Margaret's beautiful stitching, the beading and her impeccable finishing as well. I just really love it very much.

The chook will proudly be perched permanently on my cedar chest in the entry way to our home.

Thanks again Margaret for the wonderful exchange!

Hugs,
Wendy Jo

Fair & Square Round #8

2008-08-22T06:59:00.000-05:00

Lesley in the UK and I were matched up as partners for Round #8 on the Fair & Square Blog.

I stitched Lesley Cottage Garden by Country Cottage Needleworks from the Just Cross Stitch August 2006 issue. Lesley likes greens and purples and CCN so this pattern worked very well.

Lesley stitched me a quaker freebie from Gencat in my favorite color..red. I love it and I think I will make it into a floss tag! (Those of you that read my blog pretty regularly probably are shocked that I didn't say pinkeep....that's okay..I am shocked myself! LOL)

Here are the pics:

My first biscournu!

2008-08-18T08:50:00.000-05:00

I haven't added much to my blog lately as I have been very busy working on exchanges. I have 5 exchanges in the works on the Fair & Square board and 2 on the HoE board. I am really enjoying them alot and it really keeps me busy and its my passion.

I did, however, manage to make something for me a few weeks ago and thought I would share. Its a freebie from Barbara Ana's June newsletter called Good Luck.

I must say I am rather happy with the way it turned out. I see many more of these in my future!

Here's a pic:

My Quaker Exchange is here!!

2008-08-11T06:55:00.000-05:00

Over the weekend my Quaker exchange from the HoE exchange blog arrived and boy oh boy is it ever gorgeous! Sandra M. who lives in Barbados had my name.

Here is a pic of the whole package and a pic of the pillow she made. The design is called A Quaker Seasonal - Summer, done in my favorite color...red. I absolutely love it.

Thanks again Sandra!

A gift and exchange have found their homes.

2008-08-06T11:06:00.000-05:00

My friend Carol S. had a birthday last week so I stitched her a LK freebie called Bloom and made into a floss ring tag.

I recently learned how to make these thanks to the great tutorial that Staci has and I am hooked! Granted making pinkeeps remain my all time favorite why to finish...but these come in as a close 2nd favorite plus they are super easy to make! If you haven't tried it...please do...you will love it too!

Here's a pic of Carol's birthday gift:

We have some new members in our Crazy Exchange group and I wanted to stitch something up for one of our new members, Margaret in New Zealand. She is fond of quakers and likes the color blue. So I decide to stitch Quaker Time by Gencat using wavy navy by Crescent Colors and finish it as a floss key tag.

Here is a pic of Margaret's package she received:

I have been awarded!!

2008-08-04T08:04:00.000-05:00

My friend Carol R. has nominated me for the award shown above! Thanks much Carol!!

Here are the rules:

1 The winner may put the logo on her blog.
2 Put a link to the person you got the award from.
3 Nominate 5 blogs.
4 Put links to the blogs.
5 Leave a message for your nominees.

I did find 5 people to choose so here we go!

Kath

Margaret

Janaina

Carol S.

Carol R.