Work has begun...

on Catherine Maudsley 1844. Stitching the border is my least favorite part. I don't know why, it just is. This design has a lot of border, and I'm making myself stitch it first. I have admired this piece for a few years, especially after seeing a model of it. I love the colors and the chart photo really doesn't do it justice. I have chosen to stitch mine on Lakeside Linen's 40ct. vintage lentil with one strand of silk.

What to do with all the...

leftover turkey? I made a pot pie, using a new recipe that I found. This is one of DH's favorite meals. He was really excited to see me pulling this out of the oven. I usually manage to burn the crust around the edges, at least a little. This time, however, it was almost too pretty to cut in to. The recipe is a keeper, it was delicious. Now I need to figure out what to do with all of the mashed potatoes. Hmmm...shepherd's pie, perhaps.

Who's the little monkey...

in the tree? Why, it's Quinn! Paul thought it would be a fun thing to plant her up in the tree on Thanksgiving. I think I would have had heart failure if I had been there. I was no doubt still doing dishes after dinner. He was actually right underneath her, just in case. She is the most active little girl. Never still for a minute...just like her Daddy was at that age.

I am thankful

for so many things in my life...my health...my wonderful family... my beautiful grand babies...a husband who loves me even when I'm not so lovable...fabulous friends, who stick through thick and thin...each day that I have left with my aging Boxer, Otis...the girls, Ruby and Scarlett...my country, and the freedoms we sometimes take for granted. Happy Thanksgiving to all.

New England Sampler

I really love the designs of Brenda Keyes of The Sampler Company. Each one that I have stitched has been very enjoyable, and this one was no exception. Maybe it's the funny little people with the strange eyes. Or, it could be the assorted critters and flocks of birds. While I was framing this I noticed a mistake. The green bird above the wagon has no legs. Oops! I guess he or she must be roosting in mid air. This was stitched on 36ct. something with one strand of NPI silk.

I can't wait any longer...

to see what happens to Jamie and Claire. A Breath Of Snow And Ashes is the sixth novel in the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon. Even though this last book has been out for a couple of years, I have purposely waited to read it. I really don't want this wonderful story to end, and it took me awhile to read the others. Each book averages a thousand pages. My friend, Patti, first introduced me to Outlander, and to her I say thank you. I have enjoyed losing myself in the rich history and fabulous storytelling.
A few years ago, I visited Scotland. The country side is ruggedly beautiful, and Edinburgh Castle was a place I'll never forget. I am so grateful that I was able to go there. While I was reading, I could picture Jamie Fraser and his men roaming the heather covered hills.

A room of my own...

Everything is finally in place in the new craft room. It took awhile to decide on a work table. I did some searching for an antique of some type, but couldn't find anything. I can be a messy painter, so thought I'd stick to something easy to clean. The style is very modern for me, but it blends in with the book case and leather chair. They are left over from when it was the guest room. The best thing about the room is that the dogs love to hang out with me in there. We like looking out the window and being able to see what the neighbors are up to. Just kidding, Yolande! I suppose that in time it will become more cluttered. I tend to surround myself with the things I love.

A place to paint, stamp, scrapbook...create!

Scarlett's spot!

The ugly blue (found at a yard sale) cabinet, repainted.

I can watch all the sports I want in here...thanks, honey!

A nice place to stitch or read...if it isn't already occupied by Ruby and Scarlett.

You won't find it at Tiffany's...

I'm a bracelet girl, and fortunately for my husband, I prefer things like this to expensive jewelry. I made this yesterday afternoon while watching ASU sadly lose to Oregon. It was a quick project, I tied on a few charms and ribbons...and there you have it.

I wish...

the bugs in my garden were as cute as these three. Here are my darlings all ready for trick or treat. It's amazing that I was able to get a good photo of Olivia and Quinn. Those two little girls don't stand still for a second. It's much easier with baby Kai , at least until he starts walking.