Carto's Cross Stitching Corner

Hello - I'm back!

2009-06-04T20:22:00.001Z

Hello all you lovely stitching beauties out there and apologies for being away for so long - it appears that I've been completely lapse in updating my poor neglected blog. One of my New Years Resolutions was to try to update it more than once a year - I can't believe that my last post was 15 April 2008! I shall try to update you from where I left off as best I can without, I hope, boring you rigid *cue wavy flashback visual effect - the one they sometimes use on 'Murder She Wrote* :-)....

Now then...where to begin. Well, 2008 was a very up and down year for me. After much emotional rollercoaster rides and ups and downs, I am now finally divorced, although the house transfer is still going on. Secondly, my Mum went into hospital to to have a hysterectomy in December 2008. It's been a long haul but she's finally getting there - she's doing very well and is getting better 6 months on. The only thing at the moment that's not so good is that my beloved puddy cat Fudge got scared out of his wits (both Mum and me think he's being bullied by another cat) and has been showing signs of stress (no interaction or purring despite cuddles and lots of TLC, and eating very little and not going outside). Three vet appointments, one blood test and two vigourous examinations later, they can find nothing wrong with him, other than the fact that he's stressed or depressed. They gave me some 'Feliway' spray to spray around the house, and for a time there was improvement. He was purring, eating a little bit more, going outside (but not for very long) and he was sitting outside with me, rolling around in the garden, purring like mad and being very contented.

Then the day before yesterday, he was trying to be sick and I assumed he had furballs. It is the time of year for cats to moult and he's been coating like mad - fistfuls of fur in fact, so he's bound to have a furball or two. But the most distressing thing is, he's started to retreat into his listlessness and non-interest in anyone or anything and he's not eating at all (but he is drinking is water as normal). He's not even using his litter tray, which is worrying in itself. Off back to the vet we went again. Again he was prodded and poked, again examined very thoroughly, his temperature was taken - absolutely normal. They prescribed him some 'Katalax' and told me to keep spraying the Feliway around the house. But as you can imagine, I am sick with worry about him and it's so heartbreaking to witness him, lying on his blankie, looking so sorry for himself and sad. I'm trying to keep positive but it's so draining and worrying, trying to act normal, when the one you love seems to have lost the will.

Yes I know, not a very good starting post is it? I'm hoping that Fudge will pull through in time. I'll keep you updated as it happens.

I hope you're all keeping well and sorry again for being away so long. I shall be posting lots of stitching photos soon, so keep looking back :-)

Lots of love to you all,
Carto xxxxxx

The Beginning of my Cross Stitch Journey

2008-04-15T19:36:00.010Z

Can you remember your very first journey into the world of cross stitch? Can you remember having no idea of how to start, despite reading the instructions? Do you remember using all six strands of floss and getting into a complete and utter flap? I can, but I can look back on it now and chuckle.

I was looking in my WIP workbox the other day and I came across a cloth bag that I had overlooked for some time. I found something in it that made me laugh out loud. The design is by 'Dimensions' and it was part of their 'Ginger Mouse' series (a series which I think is now obsolete) – this one in particular is entitled 'Ginger Mouse with Apple' – complete with chart, a mounting hoop and the complete set of Anchor Floss cards (apologies for the poor quality pic - don't quite know why the flash didn't go off!)

I remember it as my second attempt at cross stitch and I remember buying the kit in a stitching shop in Nottingham which has long since gone, in about 1994, way before catching the stitching bug in 1997. The front looks innocent enough…you can just about make out the shape of the body and the eyes of the ginger mouse…

….but lurking beneath…(cue the 'Psycho' shower scene music!)…..

Arrrrggh! How awful is that?!?!?! I committed the ultimate cross stitching crime – carrying over the thread more than two stitches. Good grief, it looks like a hammock doesn't it?!

I'm going to keep this out and look at it as often as I can, to remind me of how far I've come in terms of stitching. It's also given me a well overdue reminder that hoping and believing in yourself is a good thing, because no matter what happens, even if everything doesn't go the way you planned it and becomes a tangled mess, if you stick at it, you will get through and all will be well in the end.

Carto xx

Hello, I'm Back!

2008-04-07T18:59:00.002Z

Hey all!

I can't believe that my last post was in November - it only feels like yesterday, where's the time gone?!

I'm really sorry if my extended hiatus has concerned or worried any of you. Unfortunately, since I last posted, things haven't been very good, what with my depression, which hasn't got any better, but on the upside hasn't got any worse either, and not nearly as bad as the bout I had back in 2001/2002. It's been an uphill battle to be interested in anything - everything seems such an effort! Summoning up the energy to go to work and come back just about kills me, so surfing on the old net is not something I've kept up with I'm afraid. I can just about cope with checking my emails, and that's about it. Then just as I had got over my kidney infection, I had a really bad dose of the flu, which lasted for most of December - and it's this bout of flu that has really set me back, as my immune system was next door to rock bottom as it was.

Also, work hasn't been too brilliant either, so on the recommendation from my Doctor, which went along the lines of "Please Heidi, find another job for the sake of your sanity", I've updated my CV and it's currently doing the rounds of the local recruitment agencies. I think this girly has reached the end of her tether, what with the low morale and stress of the job, plus the attitude of certain 'colleagues' not related to my team/area of work, who seem to think that I'm their PA. So, to cut a long story short, this girly is shipping out! I am quietly optimistic - I'll keep you posted if anything comes through.

OK, it's been a long time...so where do I start with the piccies? Hmmm...Christmas. Well Fudgie cat volunteered to help me put up the Christmas tree...

As you can see, he volunteered on an 'overseeing developments' sort of basis, i.e. not rolling up his sleeves and actually helping me, but, quite rightly he argued the point that, in fact, he has no sleeves, so begrudgingly I had to agree with him......

...and here he is, inspecting the Christmas tree box...

And finally, here he is 'helping' me to wrap up some presents.....

As you can see, 'overseeing' is tiring work! Aww, he's such a cutie - he's been such a tower of strength to me and sarcasm aside, I don't know what I'd do without him. He's been my friend, my rock and my everything through all of this. All I can say is thank the good Lord for Cats! :-)

As far as the stitching goes, it's really the only thing I have stuck at. Again, my Doctor encouraged me to keep at it, and I'm glad she did, because it helps me to wind down at the end of the day - plus it's something else to focus on. There's so much floating around in my mind right now - the depression, the job situation, also the fact that I'm divorcing husband this year. It's been all to easy to focus on the negative, which is really selfish as there's so many people in this world so much worse off than me - so stitching has really helped. Sometimes I only manage to complete a few stitches, then on the other extreme I can sit down on a Saturday at 11.30am and go right through to 6pm. Here's progress on 'Cat Knot' so far...

It's coming along, slowly but surely...and here's the 'Happiness' sampler. I've not unpicked the huge 'frogged' section yet - instead, I've concentrated on another area. As you can see, I've finished the first line of the saying and I've started stitching in the leaves and acorns that surround it...

Well, that's about it for now. I will try my very best to visit your blogs and return your good wishes - and there are some emails that I have received from you which I've opened, read, thought 'I must reply!' and never returned, so once again, huge and heartfelt apologies if I've seemed very rude. I really didn't mean to come across that way, honest! xxxx

Anyway, much love to you all...and I will be posting more often in future. Thank you for being such good friends, and thank you for thinking about me! This tired old thing really appreciates it.

Carto xxx

Cat 'Wake-Up' Call

2007-11-05T20:18:00.000Z

I just had to post this after receiving this from a friend of mine. Ah...this is so true..the joys of cat ownership! lol

I'm the Queen of Frogs

2007-11-01T08:34:00.000Z

Hey all. Thank you everyone for your well wishes and kind words, they have cheered me up and they keep me going. Bless all of you.

Well, I'm pretty much the same depression wise, but now I'm off sick, not with the depression, but a kidney infection that started out as Cystitis. I've been in agony for the last two weeks, what with passing water and now the dull ache in my lower back. I'm on antibiotics at the moment and Doc has told me to drink plenty of fluids, which I am doing, but the bathroom has become my second home!

Here are some pictures of my stitching. I've not done any since falling ill with the waterworks. It was only when I took a photograph of my sampler that I realised I am the all-time 'Queen of Frogs'. On the fourth line down, I've successfully managed to line all the lettering up in the wrong place, hence all the lettering you see will have to be unpicked - aarrrgh!!! Oh well, I suppose it will keep me busy. Mum says that I'm a 'glutton for punishment' and that it would send her 'completely doo-lally'! Maybe it will - I'll no doubt find out when I get around to it.

With regard to 'Cat Knot', it's steadily coming along. It might not look like much but I think I'm getting there slowly but surely.

That's it for now. I shall be doing my rounds to all of your blogs over the next week or so - and thanks again everyone for being there, it's comforting to know I have friends that care.

Lots of love xxxx

I'm back (hopefully)

2007-10-09T17:41:00.000Z

Hey all

Firstly, huge apologies for the really long delay in posting - I can't believe that my last post was in August!! I'm sorry I've left it so long and I hope I haven't unnecessarily worried any of you, hopefully I'm back now, but probably not so frequent as I would like.

Well, to explain what's been going on - firstly, my depression has come back. I had a bad bout a few years ago which I fully recovered from, but despite this bout not being so severe as last time the 'black cloud' has decided to rear its ugly head again. This has primarily been the reason why I've not logged on for such a long time. Everything, even browsing the web, has felt like an uphill struggle - instead I've been trying to channel my energy into staying at work.

Secondly, to add to the above, work has been a nightmare. There are still lots of 'issues' that the department I work in is having to deal with. Everyone's workloads (not just mine) have gone through the roof, which has meant that we've been working long hours. My social life is non-existent, because when I'm not at work, I'm trying to relax and look after myself as much as I can - it's about all the energy I can muster.

On a brighter note though, I passed my orange belt grading at the end of August - I'm now a 6th Kyu!

Training has also been put on the back burner for a while. I'm hoping to return next week, but I haven't been training in over a month - it's all been a little too much, so something had to give for a while, but I think now that the exercise will do me good.

I've also been stitching lots in my free time (at least that hasn't suffered, if anything it's helped take my mind off things), so I shall post some stitching piccies soon.

I'm conscious that this all sounds really whiney, but this has been my lot since I last posted. I hope you're all OK and I shall be visiting your blogs over the next few weeks. Thanks all for your lovely comments on my last post and I'm really sorry I didn't get back to you about them. Thanks again my lovelies - I don't know where I'd be without you.

Lots of love xxxxxx

Hello!

2007-08-05T18:51:00.000Z

Hello...and, first of all, apologies for hardly being around in July. It's been a combination of feeling a bit down (which I have to say is getting less and less now - it used to be every week), working, working and working, which has completely wiped my energy...and training in Aikido, which has also completely wiped me.

I'll be graded in Aikido on 22nd August and the training has involved learning 6 new techniques...and I even now, I still struggle to remember how to do them. It's been somewhat stressful...and Sensei keeps saying 'Don't think about it, just do it', which is common sense when you look at it, but there's a glitch in my head that my memory keeps stumbling over. I know at some point it will all click and come together.......but I want it to click now!!!

Also, Fudge is now on heart tablets, and will be for the rest of his life. When he went back for his check up after the grass swallowing incident, they detected a feint gurgling sound when listening to his lungs. They ran some tests..and thankfully everything seems normal, i.e. liver, kidney and heart (despite the murmur) function is fine, but his heart is beginning to age and it's not working as good as it should, hence there's a tiny build-up of fluid in his lungs. I knew the heart medication thing would come sooner or later, and as the Vet keeps reminding me..they weren't expecting him to live beyond 6 years, so he's not doing bad at all, but it has been a worrying time. He's on a new heart medication that will not only support his heart, but also his kidneys too, which is great. He's been on the medication for a week now and, touch wood, there doesn't seem to be any side-effects.

And lasttly, work is getting me down. My department is taking over what is called the European Regional Development Fund, or ERDF for short. Currently all the regional Government offices in the UK manage and appraise these funds, but from October,the management and appraisal process will fall under the responsibility of all the Regional Development Agencys in the country (we are sort of classed as part of the Government, even though technically we are not), so thankfully it's not just us in the East Midlands that's having the headache. But it is getting quite stressful, and the workload is really full on and relentless. Hence this is the reason when I've got home just lately all I've wanted to do is have a soak in the bath and have an early night.

So this has been my world since I last posted. I've done only a very small amount of stitching because I've been too tired to concentrate....so it's all been a bit...well PANTS really. It's s long excuse I know, but I'm sorry I've not been around to look at all your lovely blogs and I've missed you all terribly. I'm hoping normal service will resume shortly. Thanks for your patience so far...I will try to look at blogs later on in the week.

Carto xxxx

PHEW!!!

2007-07-05T20:30:00.000Z

The good news is that Fudge is fine, albeit a bit shook up by the experience.

I took him to the vet and she had a good prod and poke (Fudge by the way is a darling when he visits the vet - he does nothing but purr and be all cute - it's probably why everyone at my veterinary surgery loves him) this morning and the vet gave him something to induce vomiting. The end result was that he threw up 5 massive sharp blades of grass - they were huge! The vet said that they were of the grass family, but how on earth he swallowed them whole is beyond me. They got stuck in his food pipe, and the trouble with this type of grass is that it has tiny hairs which makes it incredibly sticky. This is why they got stuck in his food pipe in the first place.

The vet also said that there is undoubtedly some cuts and lacerations down there, so she gave him a shot of antibiotic and told me to keep him in today. So far it's looking very promising. He's been his usual lovable self, i.e., rubbing my face whenever he gets high enough, meowing for England, Scotland and Wales when I made myself a chicken salad sandwich this afternoon. This compared to the lifeless puss that graced my vision this morning, is great progress. I also gave him some cat food (Felix) and he ate quite a bit of it. He's currently curled up on the sofa, with his favourite blanket. So it looks like he'll be OK - PHEW, but it's been exhausting. Thank you so much for your well wishes ( you know who you are!) - they have kept me going today. You're such great friends. I will get round to reading everyone's blogs, but I'm going to turn in now, as I feel as though I've run a marathon! xxxx

Feeling Down......

2007-07-05T07:32:00.000Z

Hey all, just a quick post to say I'm still here. Sorry I've not been around for a while - I will be catching up with all your blogs tonight. I've been off on leave this week - it's been good to recharge my batteries. I went training last night and have acquired some more fierce-looking bruises, but they don't hurt so I must be toughening up! :)

I've also been busy redecorating my little office to make it more me, hence the reason I've not been around. I packed away my PC in case I got paint on it! Thank you for all your comments on my previous post. I don't feel so wimpish now, so thank you all so much for your encouragement.

On another note, I'm very worried about my furbaby. He's off his food and is currently curled up next to the radiator, underneath my bed. He was sick this morning and I'm not quite sure what's wrong with him. I'm giving him until 10am this morning and if he's not improved by then, I'll be taking him to the vet. It's very easy to think negative things, but I'm trying to be positive. I've been feeling a bit down of late, now this has happened I keep thinking to myself "what else is going to be thrown at me?" But you can't help but worry when your little ray of sunshine is not so sunny.

I'll post later on to let you know how he's doing. Thanks for listening to me xxx

'Cat Knot' Update

2007-06-24T13:37:00.001Z

Well, here's progress so far.....

You will notice that the fabric I'm stitching on is in fact 18ct Aida and not 25ct Evenweave, but there is a reason for this.

I gridded up the evenweave and started to stitch, but after about 20 minutes, I felt a sharp pain building up at the back of my eyes. This then turned into a debilitating headache which I can only describe as something similar to a migraine. I tried again the next day, but the same thing happened, although not as quite as severe as the night before because I stopped as soon as I felt the twinge of pain.

Not that I didn't before, but I have so much respect for all the HAED lasses out there who stitch away, day after day without complaint. Am I just being a complete wimp or what?! I feel as though I've let the side down by switching to Aida, but I couldn't have carried on like that. My Sis suggested that it could have something to do with the fact that I have quite a severe astigmatism in both eyes, on top of that I'm very short-sighted as well. But I've stitched on silk gauze before without anything like that happening before. I'm quite puzzled and peed off I can tell you - and I still can't figure out why it happened.

Anyway, to change the subject, there's not much progress on 'MKD' this week, as I'm suffering with 'Startitis', an excellent phrase coined by the lovely Stitcherw. I've started another lovely design, from Glendon Place called 'Five Simple Rules for Happiness'...and as you can see, I'm really enjoying it:

As you've probably noticed, I like designs with acorns in them. It's a mixture of WDW and Caron 'Wildflower' threads. Unfortunately the picture here doesn't do it justice as the light is quite bad, but that's how far I've got after only two evenings worth of stitching. I can't wait to see it finished. I've booked a weeks worth of annual leave from work, so I'll be doing lots of stitching from 2nd July - and I can't wait to have a break.

Thanks for stopping by and I hope you're all keeping well.

CARTO xx

'Sparklies' - Check It Out!

2007-06-12T19:41:00.001Z

Another quickie post. I'm doing a bit of plugging here for my best friend Kitty. She's a very talented lass who has cross stitched for years and therefore is a dab hand at all things 'stichery'. Well, she has now branched out into designing charts, dyeing fabric and threads and has set up a fantastic online shop called 'Sparklies'

I can say from first hand experience that it's well worth a look. She's come up with some really beautiful fabric pieces and some very unusual floss colours. Also I can vouch for her and say that she's a great lass and if you decide to buy, you will be greatly impressed by her customer service.

I will post with the 'Cat Knot' update tomorrow, until then, Happy Stitching (or buying if you choose to)! xxx

Stitching GTG

2007-06-11T15:15:00.001Z

It's been a while, but I'm still breathing :)

I've just got back from a Stitching GTG that was organised by the lovelies at the UK Stitchers forum from Friday to today. It was an absolute hoot! - I had a fantastic time! I don't think I've laughed so much in years, but what do you expect when you get about 20 or so women together?! We stayed at a lovely cottage complex in Ashbourne, Derbyshire and had 3 days of glorious sunshine splitting the stones. I took along 'Miss Kitty's Dragons' to stitch and here is progress so far:

As you can see, I got quite a lot done! When I arrived at the GTG, it was a blank piece of linen, so it just shows how productive these stitching GTGs are. I started one of the dragonflies, but frogged it completely...it was definitely a case of too much alcohol and not enough concentration!

I hope everyone's ok. This is just a quickie post as I'm absolutely pooped from the weekend's frolics - I shall post later on in the week with progress on 'Cat Knot'.....let's just say it's not been a easy journey. I have started to stitch it... but you'll see for yourself soon, so watch this space.

Right I'm off to collapse into an armchair with a nice cup of tea to prepare myself for the washing pile that's accumulated from the weekend GTG......urrrgh :(

'Acorn' Finish and an Overdue Tidy Up

2007-05-25T18:11:00.000Z

It's finally done......

I finished it on Sunday! Yay, yet another finish to add to the 2007 list - this is so unlike me!

I started to get together the bits and bobs I need for 'Le Coeur Chat' on Thursday evening, which then turned out to be a huge tidy up session. I keep everything in my spare room and I didn't realise just how untidy my stash drawers and boxes had become. There were chart leaflets all over the place and odd skeins of thread intermixed with scraps of leftover fabric. I even found three lots of 'Thread Heaven' that had never been used! Then I looked into my fabric/aida box and found that the lid had come off it - I looked inside.

Let's just say that a certain furry feline of the male persuasion, not too far away from me now as I type, had discovered this rather wonderful little sleeping nook. A 'carpet' of white/fudge speciality fibres had plonked itself all over my nicely folded pile of fabrics. Note to self: Put Lid Back on Fabric Box Properly in Future! Still, I could never be cross with him. It's not his fault that he has a numpty for an owner!

Anyway, to get to the point of my garbling, I'd completely forgotten about a stash box that I had started to put together, for a chart I was going to stitch around about this time last year by 'Just Nan' called 'Miss Kitty's Dragons', but due to obvious reasons, it got pushed underneath my work bench and was eventually forgotten about. Well I have decided that I'm going to stitch this instead of 'Le Coeur Chat'. It seems silly, being that I have the fabric, the charms and most of the threads bar three colours not to start it, so I'm going to have a crack at it over the weekend. Also we've got another Bank Holiday coming up on May 28th so I'll have an even longer weekend to stitch - Hurrah! :)

Have a good weekend my fellow stitchers :) xx

New Charts and New Project

2007-05-20T10:48:00.000Z

I hope this post finds you all well and in fine fettle. I've not been very well - I had a cold and sore throat for much of the week, but I'm feeling much better now. It was inevitable really - it's been a bit like the 'Marie Celeste' at work as many of my colleagues have been ill too, and from the sound of it, they've had it a lot worse than I have, so I'm thankful that it didn't totally floor me!

Yes, I've been buying again. I've discovered a brilliant little cross stitch site called Violarium. It's owned by a lovely lady called Leena and it's based in Finland. She specialises in French cross stitch kits and charts, and also supplies cross stitch magazines, books and fabric. I love French designs but for some reason (and it's maybe just me not having the 'knowledge' about where to buy) I can never find them in the UK. There are many charts from leading designers/design houses, such as Isabelle Vautier, Muriel Brunet, Long Dog Samplers, Savoir-Faire Vailly, Reflets de Soie and others. As you know, I'm cat mad and the charts I've bought are all about cats.

Here's the first one, a sweet little alphabet sampler by Isabelle Vautier, called 'Lettres a mon chat'

Here's a cute design from Savoir-Faire Vailly called 'Le Coeur Chat'

I'm so pleased with them. I'll be starting 'Le Coeur Chat' as side project two when I've finished my acorn, which I've nearly done. I've just got two more of the heart/flowers to do and I'm done!

I've lovingly put 'Phoenix' in my WIP box. I made a promise to it that I would tackle it again when I'm in a better frame of mind, but when that will be, I don't know. I feel like I've given up too easily, but I was finding it incredibly hard going. I suppose if I had more free time on my hands I would have been better able to fully concentrate on it. You really have to have your wits about you with so many fractional stitches - and there were loads on practically every line. Oh well, with the next design you could say I'm jumping out of the frying pan and into the fire, but at least this design is made up of whole stitches.....drumroll please.......it's a HAED design, originally drawn by Stephanie Pui-Min Law, and it's called 'Cat Knot'

I'm really looking forward to starting it. I've started gridding my fabric and I've got all the threads. Watch this space for updates soon.

Well that's about it for now. I hope you've all had a good weekend so far and lots of love to you all, my fellow stitchers! xxx

I've Been Tagged!

2007-05-17T18:46:00.000Z

Yes, I've been tagged by the lovely Rowyn, so here's how to play:

Each player starts with 8 random facts/habits about themselves
People who are tagged write a blog post about their own 8 random things and post these rules
At the end of your post, you need to tag 8 people and post their names
Don't forget to leave them a comment, tell them they're tagged and to read your blog.

Carto's 8 Amazing Facts/Random Things!

As well as stitching, I also have a passion for glass painting and making cute stuff with polymer clay. I'll post some photies/examples of my work soon just to give you a flavour of what I do.
I originally started out in the world of work as a fully-qualified Hairdresser. Then I discovered that it wasn't all glitz and glamour, plus the pay was rubbish so I decided to re-train as a Secretary instead.
When I got married I didn't just have one priest at the ceremony, I had two! The first was my Parish Priest (I'm Roman Catholic by birth) and the second was my DH's Uncle, who is Vicar of St. Helen's Church in Darley Dale, Derbyshire.
My ambition is to become a published writer. I'm not necessarily looking to be a best-selling novelist, as I would settle quite happily with just being published, but if mega-stardom came along I wouldn't grumble about it!
I have a serious aversion to Wasps - I can't even stand the buzz sound they make when in flight. If one comes near me, I suddenly transform into an incredibly fast runner of marathon proportions!
I'm currently learning Japanese, as I hoping to go to Japan in November with my Aikido dojo.
In 1993 I was in the front row audience enjoying the comedian who had come to entertain us at the Royal Centre here in Nottingham, but not just any comedian....it was Billy Connolly! I was wearing a red shirt with Gargoyles printed in black and he had noticed it (it was very distinctive!). He then proceeded to pester me throughout the entire performance with shouts of "I want that shirt!" and "Pleeeese, pleeeeeese can I have your shirt?!" He had a big bowl of sweets and he kept on trying to bribe me! He was a real sweetie though and remains one of my favourite comedians.
My nickname, as you all probably know is 'Carto', but I can now reveal here exclusively that my name is Heidi Cartwright - now you know why I'm called 'Carto'!

I am going to tag Lili, Stitcherw, Bliss, Ali B, Ann, CritterLady, Lelia and Heidi.

I've bought (yet again) some more lovely charts, which I will show you in my next post, which will hopefully be on Saturday - watch this space! Lots of love to you my fellow stitchers! xxx

Another Month Flys By....

2007-05-14T17:55:00.000Z

I can't quite believe just how quickly this year seems to be passing by. It only seems like I was putting the Xmas decs away last week!

Yet again, I've been a very busy bee. I went to a two-day Aikido Seminar towards the end of April that took place at the dojo that I go to here in Nottingham. The instructor was Joe Thambu Sensei, who is of Malaysian descent but lives in Melbourne, Australia. All I can say is...what a guy! He's just over 5'ft tall and weights 58kgs, but here he was, flooring guys who were 6'ft6 weighing 18stone!! It was an awesome event and I learnt oodles and oodles of stuff. I'll post some photos of me in action when I get them, but when exactly that will be I don't know.

I've also been catching up with friends, who I've been neglecting terribly over the last 5 months. One of them thought I'd stopped talking to her - I felt absolutely horrible about that, so I've been putting things right. I've been so wrapped up in my little universe that is Aikido and Badminton, I've lost track of the 'real world. I also have a hang up about going out on my own. Since my marriage breakdown, I've found it really difficult to get back out there and show the world that I'm still here. It seems strange to go out on my own knowing that I've been part of a partnership for so long. It's silly to be like that I know, I'm a grown woman for goodness sake, but I've got a real 'issue' about going out to crowded pubs and bars. I'm finding I like nothing better than to stay in with Fudge on my lap on a Saturday night than going out, dragging myself through the crowds of people and getting smoked to death in crowded bars. If a friend invites me out to dinner in a restaurant, that's different. Hmm...I hope I get over this thing.

I've nearly finished my acorn....

I've only got one leaf to do near the top right of the design and a few of the flowers to stitch, but I reckon I should have it done by the end of this week. I've really enjoyed stiching this design - I shall have to check out 'Cross-Eyed Cricket' again. I've not been so enthusiastic about finishing 'Phoenix' though - I wish I was. It's a design requiring a lot of concentration and my head always seems to feel fuzzy when I look at it - maybe it because I'm thinking of all them fractional stitces that I still have to do! My Sister suggested I started something else, but I don't want to keep doing that - I'll have to look at my WIPs and see if any of them tempt me...hmmm what to do?!

Anyway I've prattled on long enough. I missed you all so much and I shall be commenting on your blogs after I've finished this. Lots of love to you my stitching friends! xxx

'Luck' Finish and Other Things

2007-04-10T19:30:00.000Z

Hey there :) Yes, I finished 'Luck' on Sunday. I've got a nifty little frame that I'm going to put it in, then it's going to live in my front room. My first finish of 2007 - hurrah!

I've stitched quite a lot of 'Phoenix' as well...

If I'm honest, I have to say that this is a pig of a design to stitch and on more than one occasion I've been tempted to chuck it in the bin! The problem is that there are huge amounts of fractional stitches and as a consequence, it requires oodles of concentration. Just one slip-up can be disastrous, as I have found to my peril on more than one occasion. Even before I started stitching it, there was the added faff of having to blend the threads beforehand, as 99% of the colours are made up of two DMC colours mixed together. With all of that to contend with, as you can imagine, I've not been filled with the joys of spring when summoning up the courage to tackle it. However, I think I've 'cracked the code' so to speak. I've discovered that if I have a little side project on the go at the same time (like 'Luck for example), it gives me something else to concentrate on when my enthusiasm wanes. Then when I feel suitably enthused, I go back to stitching 'Phoenix' again. I wished I'd stumbled on this little gem before, but better late than never is what I always say.

Talking of side projects, I started this rather lovely design by 'The Cross-Eyed Cricket' yesterday, entitled 'Autumn Acorn'.

The main acorn body is stitched with 'The Thread Gatherer' Silk 'n Colors thread in 'Autumn Honey (SNC069). It's the first time that I've ever used TTG thread - it's a gorgeous thread to stitch with, in terms of both colour and usability - the stitches are very smooth to work, but I guess it goes without saying when it's silk thread. Has anyone else used it before? I'd be interested to hear your thoughts :)

Thank you for taking the time to read my prattles and I hope you have a good week :) xx

Happy Easter!

2007-04-06T20:56:00.000Z

Hey everybody - I hope this post finds you all in good health on this very good 'Good Friday'. Well, it was great to wake up at 8.30 this morning instead of 6.15 - no work today hurray!

The weather here in Nottingham has been surprisingly very hot and sunny! I decided to grab the opportunity while I could and cut the grass on my back and front lawn, much to the delight of Fudge, who showed his appreciation by rolling around in the fresh grass cuttings. I am now the proud owner of a pale green and fudge coloured cat instead of a white and fudge one. I took some photos of him before he decided to make his fashion statement...

Here he is doing his best 'Chad' impression - 'Wot no fish?' :) I don't know why, but he does this whenever he's on something high. Here he's on the kitchen table, but he also does it when sitting next to me on the sofa, on the window ledge or even on the stair case - if there's a ledge or a drop, he likes nothing better than to hang his head down. My furbaby has a character all his own!

After cutting the grass, I also took the opportunity to do some more stitching on 'Luck'.

It also gave me the perfect excuse to try out my rather wonderful psychadelic new scissors - I saw these on an online shop I've discovered (www.siestaframes.com) and I just had to have them!

I haven't planned anything else apart from my usual badminton playing on Sunday - the rest of my time I shall be stitching for England! Another 3 days of stitching bliss - what a wonderful way to spend a bank holiday weekend :) Oh and I've also just realised that my blog was a year old on 3rd April! My goodness, but doesn't time fly when you're having fun? This blog wouldn't be what it is without your input. Thank you to all of you for making this blog so worthwhile. I have made so many friends through doing this - you all know who you are! And thank you to some new visitors who have taken the trouble to drop by and say 'Hi'. Bless you and thank you again my stitching lovelies!!! xxxxx

Busy, busy, busy......

2007-04-01T20:19:00.000Z

Hey everyone. Sorry I've not been around for a while - yet again life has got in the way of my stitching ambitions. But so far it's not been a bad month at all, despite the fact that after my last post, I thought it was going to be a bad one.

I became ill after my last post - and the reason was my legs got covered in insect bites...INSECT BITES! I'm still puzzled as to why I even got them in the first place. In the UK at the moment it's not exactly 'Don a sunhat and dollop on the sun/insect repellent cream' weather yet, however, this didn't stop the little blighters from feasting on both my ankles and calves. I had the grand total of 21 insect bites - 12 on my right leg, 9 on my left. Some became infected, so it called for a painful hobble down to the Quack to get some high strength antibiotics. I was worried that I wouldn't be fighting fit in time for the charity walk that I'd signed up to do for the British Heart Foundation, but the antibiotics did the trick and on Sunday 25th March, I completed a 10-mile walk around the countryside surrounding Calke Abbey, situated in a lovely little place called Ticknall, in deepest rural Derbyshire. I started walking for them in 2005, after a good friend of mine, Richard, died of heart failiure just before Christmas in 2003. He was only 29. Since then I've done their annual 'High Peak Challenge' which consists of walking 17.5 miles along the famous High Peak/Tissington Trail in the Peak District, Derbyshire. Here's me, after completing the Calke Abbey walk in just over 3 hours.....

In other news, I've had the last week or so off to decorate my front room. There was much swearing and gnashing of teeth, but I finally completed it yesterday. I looked properly at my handywork for the first time today and I've come to the conclusion that it was all worth it. I even managed to go on a little spending spree in between decorating AND do some stitching.....

I bought some lovely patterns by JBW Designs and as you can see, I went a bit mad - there's 10 all in all! I'm going to re-vamp the cushions on my sofa with some new covers and with a couple of the designs below in the middle of them. I'm going to do 'Pumpkin' and 'Apple' first as they matching my colour scheme perfectly.

...AND..here's the stitching I've been doing. This is the project I was meaning to take with me to the Stitching GTG that's going to happen in June. I just couldn't resist it, so I'll have to find something else! I'm stitching this with a mixture of WDW and Gentle Art threads.

I've also been working on 'Phoenix' today, but 'Blogger' as usual doesn't want to play, so I'll post them later in the week. I think I've rambled enough! Thanks for dropping by and hopefully there won't be such a huge gap in between posts this time. I hope you're all well and I shall be visiting your blogs over the next few days. Lots of love and hugs to you my wonderful stitching friends :) xx

Hold on to your Stitching Frames Everybody......

2007-03-04T21:07:00.000Z

I've actually done some cross stitch! *Silence whilst everyone steps back in amazement* Yes you can all have a couple of tablets and a lie down to get over the shock in a minute!

'Steady on', I hear you cry - 'this is a stitching blog - you can't have things like STITCHING on here - the very thought of it - I've a good mind to flag it as inappropriate!!' Yes I'm sorry it's taken so long for me to actually talk about stitching on here, but what with one thing or another (Mum being ill, work being a bit topsy-turvy what with getting used to a new boss, a Husband deciding whether he wants to be one or not, with some throwing people around on mats whilst wearing white pyjamas for good measure), my stitching year has got off to rather a bad start, until now.

I've been a busy bee this weekend, or you could say a busy dragonfly........

It's a 'Dragonfly Pin' Kit from Mill Hill that I'd bought from 'Sew and So' a couple of weeks before Christmas. I was going to make it up and give it as a present to one of my relations, but never got round to it. It was such an enjoyable kit to do - I got home from town yesterday at about 1.30pm and by 4pm, I'd finished it!. I haven't added the pin to it yet but I will get round to it. And yes, I've also stitched on 'Phoenix' this afternoon.....

It's not an awful lot, but it's a start! There are lots of half and quarter stitches, so it's something I'm having to concentrate on - no looking at DVDs whilst stitching with this one. I discovered that to my peril this afternoon - I only looked up at the TV once (mind you I was watching 'Van Helsing' - and Hugh Jackman is always worth a look *swoon*) - and before I knew it...'CROOOOAKK!'...I'd frogged two lines!! So with trusty unpicker in hand, and lots of swearing to boot, I had learnt my lesson well. But I know it will be all worth it in the end; I'm really pleased with how it's turning out. I've just got to persevere.

Oh well, back to work tomorrow morning (yack!) - doesn't the weekend go by fast when you're having fun. I hope you all had good weekends too. Watch this space, as I will be talking about stitching again later on in the week - Yes.....stitching!!

Lots of love to you all, my fellow stitchers xxx

Woo-hoo, I'm a 7th Kyu!

2007-03-01T21:30:00.000Z

Yes, me and my fellow 8th Kyu's (five of us in total) passed our Yellow Belt grading after a lot of nerves and intense practising. It definitely was a night to remember last night - I've never been so happy or so proud for a long time.

We were going to have an hour of normal training, then straight into grading for the next hour, but Sensei had a change of heart and said that instead we were going to have half an hour of practice, then straight into the gradings. At that point nearly all of my internal organs turned to mush - 'Oh no, half an hour?! That's not going to be nearly enough time to run through the moves!' But I needn't have worried - I got all the moves worked out in my head, remembering the little things, like 'Don't stomp, slide your feet', 'splay your hands' and 'arms slightly bent'. Then the moment of truth finally arrived.

Unfortunately, because we were lower down in the chain so to speak, being 8th Kyu, or White belts, we were up first. I look back now and feel greatly relieved about that, as I don't think my stomach could have taken an agonizing wait. I was worrying that I wouldn't be able to recognise the moves when they were called (they're all called in Japanese). We were called up into our lines, then in the blink of an eye, it was all over! We got a huge round of applause from our fellow 'Aikidoka' and as we sat back down we got patted on the back, with cries of 'well done' and 'you looked great' - I must have looked liked the 'Cheshire Cat' as I couldn't get rid of the cheesey grin that had now etched itself on my face! We then watched the gradings from 6th to 4th Kyu - and it made me realise that it doesn't stop at just getting a yellow belt. How my fellow classmates remembered what to do I'll never know - I thought what we had to do was difficult. But I realise that that is the challenge. Here is what I had to do for my grading:

Migi Hammi no Kamae (basic stance, right posture)
Hidari Hanmi no Kamae (basic stance, left posture)
Seiza Ho (move into seated position)
Shikko Ho (knee walking)
Ukemi (falling)
Tai no Henko Ichi (body change movement one)
Tai no Henko Ni (body change movement two)
Hiriki no Yosei Ichi ( elbow power movement one)
Hiriki no Yosei Ni (elbow power movement two)
Shumatsu Dosa Ichi (fixing movement one)
Shumatsu Dosa Ni (fixing movement two)
Katate Mochi Shihonage Ichi (one-handed grasp, four direction throw one)
Katate Mochi Shionage Ni (one handed grasp, four direction throw two)
Shomen Uchi Ikkajo Osae Ichi (front strike to head, first control, movement one)
Shomen Uchi Ikkajo Osae Ni (front strike to head first control, movement two)

When the gradings were finished, we were called to line up in front of Sensei to receive feedback and to find out whether we had passed or not - and of course because we graded first, we were called up first. So there we were, all five of us in front of Sensei, not quite knowing what to expect, but what he said was unbelievable. Not only had we passed, but we were by far the best 7th Kyu grading in the Dojo's history - what an achievement. I still can't believe it! I'm still on a high - and yes I know this is a HUGE post, but I'm so happy! And P.S. there WILL be a STITCHING UPDATE ON PHOENIX THIS WEEKEND, promise! xxx

'Hurt'

2007-02-23T20:26:00.000Z

I came across this song, quite a few years ago. It was written by Trent Reznor, the man behind the band 'Nine Inch Nails' and appeared on their album 'Downward Spiral'. Johnny Cash heard the song, loved it - and did an excellent cover of it. I've got a soft spot for Johnny, as my 'Da', God rest his soul, was a huge fan and had all his albums. Now I prefer this cover to the original - and whenever I hear Johnny's gravel-filled voice, it reminds me of my wonderful Father.

Over the last 8 months since the split, I've thought a lot about my him and what he would have made of all this. I've never stopped thinking about and missing him since he died - I don't think you ever do when you've lost a parent (or any family member for that matter). When I've been feeling down, I've thought about his smile and his infectious laugh - I would do anything to bring him back. This is for you, my lovely Da xx

Debilitating or Liberating?

2007-02-20T19:30:00.000Z

Hello!

Yes, that was the question posed to me today by one of my work colleagues. I don't quite know how we got on to the subject - it was quite surreal. One minute she was asking me how to use Microsoft Visio and the next minute, she was asking "How have you been since xx left?"

I must say I had to really put my thinking cap on for a response. I've reached a point now where I don't even think about it - I get up in the morning, go to work, come back home in the evening and chill - it hadn't even crossed my mind until that moment. But thinking about the past 8 months and how I've been since it all happened has made me realise that it's actually been quite a liberating experience!

Now before everyone thinks "Oooh what a heartless old hag", I'm not saying that I've been devoid of all feeling. On the whole it's been a very said and painful process to go through. Sometimes an old picture or even a smell can bring back a good memory about how good things used to be and before you know it, I'm reaching for the tissues. But out of all the well meaning advice I've been given (the worst being, 'Cheer up, it may never happen!' - aarrrggh!), the best one was 'focus on your family, your friends and be thankful for what you have'. In fact, it's been the best advice I've ever had. I've put this into practice and here are some fab things that I focus on:-

If I want to lounge about at the weekend in just my pyjamas and my fluffy bunny socks, I can do so to my hearts content.
I can look at what I want to on the telly, without being harangued into changing the channel.
I don't have to 'queue' to use the computer anymore.
The 'Smelly Sock Mountain' at the end of the bed is now a thing of the past.
When I choose a CD to listen to, I can actually listen to it there and then, without having to organise an expedition to hunt it down because it's been put back in a completely different case.
The bathroom now resembles a haven of peace and tranquility, not some grotty hole frequented by 'Wee John Poo-Pong McHonk'!!

So to answer my colleagues question, all in all, things are very much tickety-boo! I've discovered that there is in fact, life after separation - Hurrah!!

Lots of love to you my fellow stitchers! xxxxx

Blimey, where's January Gone??

2007-02-13T18:12:00.000Z

Hi All

Firstly, I just wanted to say thanks to every single one of you for your kind comments and good wishes and I'm so sorry for not answering them personally - I will get round to posting on your blogs tonight. Secondly, I just wanted to let you all know that I'm back and I've missed you all terribly.

Ma is doing fine and she's back to her old self. She's still 'not out of the woods' yet, but she's a lot better than she was. We went back to the hospital on 25th January only to discover that she should have been given some medication when she was discharged, but they forgot. Well, I won't tell you exactly what I said because it might offend, but as you can imagine, I was absolutely livid, in fact I was incandescent with rage. Ma said afterwards that I looked quite scary!

Anyway, on a lighter note, I went to see 'The Rocky Horror Show' at the Royal Centre here in Nottingham on 1st Feb, which was an absolute hoot! I've been to see the show over the years a few times, but it was great to sing the songs and do the actions. Then on 2nd February, I celebrated my 36th birthday with my Sis and Bro-in-Law. For my birthday present, they took me to an excellent Japanese restaurant, just on the outskirts of Nottingham centre. They thought it appropriate, being as I'm studying Aikido. Speaking of which, my yellow belt grading is now taking place on Wednesday 28th February at the Dojo. It should have taken place at the end of January but because of what happened, I couldn't make it. I went training last night, and my Sensei quite confidently said 'You'll walk it!' - well if he says I'm good enough, then that's good enough for me!!

Anyway, enough waffling. Thanks to you all again for thinking about me over the last couple of weeks. You all make this blog worthwhile - bless your hearts! I'll be posting as normal from now on, but I'm not saying that too loudly in case something else happens! Bigs hugs xxxx

Just when I thought it was safe....

2007-01-21T20:18:00.000Z

....to even think that the New Year was getting off to a splendid start, it didn't. Three days into the New Year and I get a call at work on my mobile...it's my Mum.

"Hello Heid, now don't be alarmed, but I'm at home and I've called for an ambulance". The coffee cup I was drinking from landed with a crash on my desk, breaking clean in two, its contents flooding my keyboard. "Oh my God Mum, what's happened?" After finishing the call it was all hands to the pump - my new Boss gave me a lift home, bless her.

It turned out that she was bleeding heavily - when I got home I found her in the bathroom, sitting on the loo, still with cordless phone in hand, looking very pale and gaunt. The ambulance arrived and we were rushed to A&E, then the Gynaegology unit of the Queen's Medical Centre, where she was admitted - she hates hospitals at the best of times, but a two-night stay didn't go down well at all. Her womb is the problem - it's been prolapsed for quite a number of years and was not a problem until now. There's a trip back to hospital on Thursday (25th) to find out what exactly happened and what can be done, but as you can imagine, Ma isn't looking forward to it one bit. I'm going with her because not only does she hate hospitals with a passion, but if I'm not there she won't ask the right questions. She'll just take whatever the Doctor says to her.

That's why I've not been on here just lately. I've also changed bosses at work - I'm now PA/Administrator to the new Director of European Programmes so it's a whole new ball game, but thankfully my new boss is lovely. My last boss was male - and was also a lovely kind boss, but my new boss is even nicer. Thank heavens for lovely bosses! I've been getting into work early and coming home after 6pm, and when I've come home and whizzed up something quick to eat, afterwards I've been looking after Mum, so it's all been a bit frantic of late. My stitching is severely lacking on the 'Phoenix' front too, which at some point I will rectify, but it's on the back burner for the time being. Anyway enough about me - I hope you're all doing ok - I've missed you, but huge apologies in advance if you don't see me on here quite as much for the next couple of weeks. I'll be back on track soon! xxx

HELLO 2007!

2007-01-01T17:16:00.000Z

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

Yes hello 2007 (TOUCHDOWN!!) and goodbye horrible nasty 2006. To say I'm happy to see the back of it is an understatement!!!

I hope everyone had a lovely Christmas - I certainly did. I got loads of presents, most of it being books and more books - I'm a big fan of sci-fi and fantasy - most of the books you see here are fantasy novels.......

Plus a few Calendars...you'd never guess I love cats would you? hee hee.....

The rest of my presents were made up of DVD's - I got 'The Chronicles of Narnia' four disc extended edition, 'Pirate's of the Carribean - Dead Man's Chest', 'X-Men: The Last Stand' and 'Firefly' the complete series (which I've been meaning to get, as Husband took the copy we had), so I've done very well this year!

I bought a game called 'Apples to Apples' a couple of days before Christmas, thinking it wouldn't be much good, but how wrong I was - it's a fantastic game and a good purchase, as it had us all in bits with laughter on Boxing Day. Along with playing 'UNO' we were laughed out by the end of it all! Fudge liked the box very much. Fudge is a very big cat and he thought it a very good idea to try and cram himself into the lid of the 'Apples to Apples' game......

And didn't do a very good job! Awww....what a cutie!

I didn't do too bad staying in by myself last night - I had my DVD's to watch, Fudge to cuddle and Ma to keep me company. My best mate invited me over to her house for a huge gathering with all our other mutual friends (which is something me and DH always did at New Year) - I knew that DH was going to be there - I couldn't face it. I felt it contradictory to try and be happy and bright and say in a cheery voice 'HAPPY NEW YEAR' when I didn't feel happy in the slightest. And DH insists on calling me 'mate' whenever he sees me which I can't stand. 'Hello mate, how you doing?' He has said that on more than one occasion and it irritates me to distraction. 'NO! I'm not your 'mate', I'm your Wife, or have you bloody forgotten that fact already?!?'

Anyway - it's now 2007 and I feel deep in my bones that this is going to be a good year for me - if not, I'm going to have a bloody good time finding out! I hope each and every one of you have a very, very Happy New Year - and thanks to each and every one of you for reading my blog. You have all been so good to me and I feel like I've known you all for many years, especially 'Singular Stitches', 'CatandTurtle', 'Ali B', 'Stitcherw', 'Rowyn', 'Lili', 'BlissXStitches', 'Leila', 'Rowyn', 'Juanita' , 'Sue' and 'Carol' - THANK YOU all so much for your kind words, your friendship and for making this blog worthwhile. If I can be of help to any of you, you just let me know. My only resolution for 2007 is to blog more regularly, to leave comments on your blogs and actually put some more stitching on here!

Take care everybody, and thanks again! xx

Happy Holidays!

2006-12-24T13:21:00.001Z

Hey everybody. It's been a while but I'm finally here. Thank you for your patience - I've been so busy my feet haven't touched the ground!

I just wanted to say that I hope you all have a lovely Christmas. I wasn't going to celebrate it myself, but then I thought, darn it, why should I let what's happened get in the way of my festive spirit?! I'm going to my Sis and Bro-in-Laws tomorrow to join in the fun and games (there'll be about 8 of us, including my middle Sis and BIL) and no doubt we'll be playing the card game 'UNO' until the early hours. We did that last year (when Xmas Day was at my house), but it increasingly becomes a game of skill once you've had a few 'festive fizzy pops' shall we say. Then for Boxing Day, I've decided to host the dinner and drink marathon. I'm going to be busy - and a bit sad - but I'm looking at the next couple of days with the view that they are just what a are - a couple of days. I've got through the worst of it so far, tomorrow and Tuesday shouldn't make any difference. It's been really nice actually, as I've received so many pats on the back - and people heartily saying 'good for you hun!' - It's made me all the more determined to enjoy myself.

It's also been a bit awkward, as I haven't received as many cards as I did last year, but hey, if people want to be like that, then fine - I can do without them. I sent all my cards as usual without ever thinking whether I should be doing or not. It just goes to show how surprising it can be when you think you've known someone for years, then when you mention 'separation', it all changes. Yes I'm separated, I've not got the flu virus!!! Ah who cares about them anyway? I instantly look at the following to cheer me up.......

Yes this is my bedside cabinet/table - with my lovely little buzzy bee picture and card from Ann, and my other lovely handmade cards from Lynn. I look at that little lot and always forget my troubles.

Well, I've even managed to fit in some stitching along the way......

Yes, even though I do say so myself, I'm rather chuffed with how 'Phoenix' is turning out at the moment - Lugana is always a joy to stitch - and this is no different, especially with the sparkles going through it. I'm looking forward to doing some more this week as I've got the whole week off - oooh bliss - non stop stitching, hurrah!!!

Well I shall sign off here. A very Merry Christmas to you and your families and I hope Santa brings you lots of lovely pressies, especially loads and loads of stitching goodies (I've got everything crossed to make sure that I do!). Oh, almost forgot - message for Stitcherw - thanks for 'tagging' me and I will definitely see to doing it after the next couple of days - PROMISE! x

HAPPY CHRISTMAS EVERYBODY! XXX

Licence to KERPOWW! and 'The Phoenix is Rising!'

2006-11-16T19:30:00.000Z

My goodness - two posts in one week - it's a miracle LOL :)

Another thing I'm really rather chuffed about is that I got my Aikido licence and grading book at training the other night *cue a Spongebob Squarepants HOO-RAY!*

The grading book is a bit like a passport in the Aikido world. Every time you grade and gain a different coloured belt, they stamp and sign it with details of where and when you got it, with a rather awesome looking stamp. You can also record details of any training seminars that you attend as well. This year the club has been to seminars in Poland and also Japan (the home of Aikido). Unfortunately this was before I joined. Going to Japan would have been awesome as it has been a dream of mine for quite a number of years. I can't wait to find out where we'll be going next year - hopefully they'll go to Japan again. The next lot of grading will be in December - and with any luck I'll be swapping my white belt for a yellow one!

......and....yes, the Phoenix is finally rising from the ashes! I started mixing all the thread colours and putting them on me thread cards the weekend just gone. I've cut my lovely sparkly fabric to size and have put it on a frame, but I've not done any stitching as yet. I'm starting it at the weekend...so watch this space!! xx

Really Rather Chuffed!

2006-11-14T20:46:00.000Z

A couple of days ago I went to see Opeth (one of my favourite bands of all time) at Rock City, here in Nottingham a couple of days ago - they're not to everyone's taste I grant you (they're a Death Metal band, but I see them more as a prog-rock sort of thingy). I took a photo with my new phone - I now have a very swanky looking Sony Ericsson W850i - and I must say I'm rather chuffed with the results after taking a few piccies. I won't bore you with all of them as they all look the same, bar a few colour changes with the lighting, but it's not bad considering it's a mobile phone camera.

I've also downloaded huge amounts of loverly moosic. The bus trip to work isn't quite so paint dryingly, mind numbling boring as it has been recently.

I just had to post this - I'm a gadget geek - I'll go away and shut up now :) - TTFN x

BRRRRR!!

2006-11-08T21:05:00.000Z

Hoover dam but it's cold here! We had the warmest October on record here in the UK and now all of a sudden, Jack Frost has been trampling round here with his great big size 9 boots! It was so cold, I had to wear my gloves while on the way to work this morning, which is the first time ever this year. Fudge is also feeling it too, and is spending most of his time curled up on my new winter duvet!

'Ah...this is the life!'

That's just where I wanted to be this morning I can tell you! I love the winter during the day, but I'm not so keen on the dark nights, even more so because of my current situation. There always has to be a spanner in the works - but that's life, hey ho.

'Rose Trio' Update: Well, it's a very poor update. As you can see, I've only managed to make the drops slightly longer and putting the little heart shapes at their ends.

I've got Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening to myself, so I'm planning to get it all done by the end of the week. I really do need to start my 'Phoenix' asap, as I'm beginning to dream about it! Mind you, I suppose dreaming about a Phoenix isn't too bad - maybe it's my subconscious telling me that good changes are ahead, being as the Phoenix is a sign of rebirth and new starts - how cool would that be?! Have a good week xx

Note to Self......

2006-10-29T09:51:00.000Z

......I must post more! Sorry, yet again, for the long absence. I've been battling things like sore throats and colds. I think my body is trying to tell me to slow down, which I am now beginning to take notice of. For the first time in a long time, I'm starting to feel comfortable being by myself, so being in the house doesn't feel so awful anymore. To this end I've decided to take things easy and I'm beginning to feel much better, both mentally and physically

Well a lovely thing happened at the weekend - look what I got from the 'Sweetie Across The Sea', otherwise known as Ann

Isn't it great?! It is currently residing on my bedside table, so I can look at cheery smiley Bumble Bee when I'm feeling down, which is usually first thing in the morning. The card is sooo cuuuute! I think you can make it out in the picture, but there's a sweetie little dog curled up and underneath the words 'Ruff Day?' Bless you Ann, you're a gem! xx The card sits with the cards that Lynn sent me, when she sent over that luvvverly body wash and moisture creme.

I've started to watch DVDs again, which for some reason I couldn't for quite a while (I think it was maybe because I used to watch them with Husband). I went out and bought 'Pride & Prejudice' - it was only a fiver in HMV! I had to get it. Talking of Bronte novels being brought to the silver screen, I was absolutely riveted to the new adaptation of 'Jane Eyre' that the BBC produced. It was in four parts and finished a couple of weeks ago. Now Sundays are totally bereft of something to look forward to. An English actor by the name of Toby Stephens played the wonderfully moody Mr Rochester. Toby played the baddie Gustav Graves in the 007 movie 'Die Another Day' and is Dame Maggie Smith's younger son. He just totally floats my boat and blows Matthew MacFadyen out of the water! Check out http://www.bbc.co.uk/drama/janeeyre/- it's well worth a look!

Update on 'Rose Trio' - I've done some more, but I've seriously neglected my poor stitching. I'll be making up for it by doing some over the weekend and posting some more photos of it so you can see. It's nearly finished, then on to 'The Phoenix' which I can't wait to stitch!

That's all for now - and I promise I won't leave my next posting too long! Thanks for dropping by - and thanks for your patience. Big Hugs! xx

I'm Still Here!

2006-10-02T20:59:00.000Z

Hey everybody - sorry for not posting for so long...but I've been so busy! To stop moping around at home I've taken up a few new pastimes. I've always done Tai Chi on a Monday evening and Badminton on a Sunday morning, but now I have Badminton on a Tuesday evening and I've started training in Aikido on a Thursday evening (phew - just makes me tired looking at all this lol!) This now means I only have 3 nights a week to myself - and when I'm not sleeping I'm doing things like ironing and keeping the house straight.

Generally I've not been too bad - I still have my down days but they seem to be easing somewhat, although I had a terrible time last Tuesday. Every time I sat down at work to tackle something or other, I'd start to cry. I'm just so thankful my Boss is so understanding - he's a real sweetie, in fact all of my work colleagues have been absolutely brilliant to me. I'm very lucky. I had a little cry before going online tonight, but I think that's because I'm suffering with a head cold and I can never think straight at the best of times when I have one of those. I just wish I could wake up tomorrow and find that this was all a bad dream. But, that doesn't mean to say I'd go back to how things were between me and DH because that obviously (I can see it now) wasn't working, but I'd love for once not to wake up, go through the day and go to bed thinking about how crap this all is. Maybe one day soon...

Anyway, here is an update on my 'Rose Trio' WIP - as you can see, I have managed to fit in some time to stitch - it won't be long before I've finished it........

But....... good ole' Blogger, in fine tradition, isn't playing nicely so I will try to upload it later on in the week (typical). I've just tried again to load some more holiday pics and Blogger is still sulking in the corner. AHAAA!........

Oh well, at least you can see RT, but the holiday photos no go....I thought it was too good to be true. Ah well, can't have it all peachy can we?? Anyway, I'll sign off here now. Love to you all my fellow stitchers - I hope you have a cracking week!

TTFN xxxxxx

'I'm so Lucky '& Stitching Stuff

2006-09-04T21:37:00.000Z

Hello again :)

I am soooo lucky to have such lovely stitching friends.......look what arrived in the post a couple of weeks ago.

I was going to post this a few weeks ago, but I've been so busy (and worn out!) that I never got round to it until now. What you see before you is a lovely suprise I received in the mail from the lovely talented lass that is Singular Stitches

I visited her blog one evening and commented on some cloths that she had knitted. I remarked on how lovely they were (and they are I can tell you - check it out) and low and behold - a couple of weeks later I got this fantastic washcloth (which in my opinion works better than a loofah) and some lovely Mary Kay products (some lovely body wash and some moisture lotion). They are aptly called 'Embrace Happiness', which is just what I did when I used them - they smell fab the fragrance lasts for ages! Isn't she just the greatest? :)

I thought it also about time I actually put some stitching on here, so here is the L*K piece that I completed a few weeks ago - 'In All Things Give Thanks'. I stuck to the original threads used (which were an absolute pain to use - they kept knotting up on me every two seconds - and with Thread Heaven on them as well!) but I got there in the end.

And here's the project I'm currently working on. It's an Art-Stitch design called 'Rose Trio'. It's an absolute dream to stitch because the colours are so simple - just what I need being as my brain has decided to take up residence in my bum with everything that's going on at the moment!

And...YAY! My fabric arrived from Silkweaver for the Dracolair 'Phoenix' project that I'm going to be doing when I have completed 'Rose Trio'. It's a 28-count opalescent lugana in 'Sparkling Sundown' from their 'Reflections' range...here's a piccie - a not very good quality one I know but you can see the way it sparkles - I'm glad it lives up to its name!

It's things like the above that make me realise life is worth living and it makes me humble. I really am a lucky gal!

I shall be posting more of my holiday photies later on in the week, so watch this space - thanks for dropping by and have a great week :) xxx

Time for a Change

2006-09-03T14:48:00.000Z

I've decided to change my blog to something different, as now I am posting to you from my brand new computer. I was getting fed up with looking at pink all the time!

Well, my trip to Loch Lomond was amazing - I think I need another holiday to get over it! The weather was fantastic and the places we saw were fantastic as well. We stayed in Tarbet, which is the main of 3 other villages around Loch Lomond. The gaelic word for Tarbet is 'Tairbeart' meaning isthmus or, literally, "draw-boat". Loch Lomond at Tarbet is a mile and a half from a sea loch, Loch Long, at Arrochar (Arrochar is the next village, approximately 2 miles away). There is a valley that connects them, which is low lying and was long used as a portage route for boats. Also in 1263, Viking raiders sailed their longships between the two to allow them to do their plundering and pillaging along the shores of Loch Lomond.

A lovely pic of Loch Lomond. This was taken the next day after we arrived. The mountain you see behind the Loch is Ben Lomond, which in Gaelic means 'Beacon Mountain'

...and this is Loch Lomond to the right of the previous picture. This is where all the little boat tours leave from.

This is the Tarbet Hotel. It was a lovely little place to stay, but it's not exactly modern in decor. It didn't matter to me - it would have looked a bit strange to see modern furniture in a place as old as this.

That's about it for the moment. I have more piccies to show you in relation to our trip to Stirling Castle, Inverary, Fort William and Oban, but I shall post them later on this week, as good old Blogger is deciding to sulk. Back to work tomorrow (groan) - oh deep joy!

Until next time :)

I'm off to Bonnie Scotland!

2006-08-27T21:40:00.000Z

Hey everybody :)

Yes, I'm off to Loch Lomond very early tomorrow morning, so I thought I would type a quick post now, as I won't have time in the morning. I'm in need of a break again - also yesterday (August 26th) was my wedding anniversary, so I decided to take the week off, as I would have been on holiday(in normal circumstances) anyway.

Yesterday was suprisingly OK. Mind you, I had booked a full body aromatherapy massage for the morning, so I pretty much floated along yesterday after that! But I didn't cry, or mope, so yet another hurdle successfully over with. My Ma, Sisters, Brother's in Law and all my friends were really proud of me....and I was proud of me too. I'd been dreading the 26th for so long, but when it finally reared it's scary head, I showed it a karate chop or two and sent it flying :)))

I will be back sometime on Friday September 1st, so at least I'll have Saturday and Sunday to recover, as it's going to be a long journey (roughly about 5ish hours I estimate there and back). I shall be bringing my trusty digital camera with me, so when I come back I'll post some photies. I plan to have a few trip days. I'm hoping to catch the ferry to Oban, a beautiful place, and then visit Stirling Castle - I'm sure I'll be bring back some awesome pics!

I also just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you all for your kind words, your support, your friendship and your love and understanding. I think, in fact I KNOW, that if I didn't have such wonderful friends out there in the stitching/blogging world, I don't think I mentally would have made it. Your advice and your friendship has kept me strong, and it continues to do so, and a special thanks goes out to a certain few (they know who they are). Every single one of you are my Guardian Angels...bless you and lots of ((((((((((HUGS)))))))))) to all of you.

Take care, have a lovely week and I'll post when I get back.
Lots of Love xxxxxxx

World of the Strange

2006-08-17T20:30:00.000Z

Hi all

It's been a while, but I'm back. Thanks for your patience. A lot of things have happened since I last posted.

DH has finally moved out, which was, to say the least, very traumatic. But it's done now and for the moment I can begin to heal. Although I never wanted him to move out, I wanted him to (sounds contradictory I know) because it was getting to the point where I would physically hurt every time I clapped eyes on him. I was stuck in limbo - I could neither move on or get some sort of closure. Him still being here also sent out huge mixed messages - "Sorry dear, I don't love you anymore, but despite making a few attempts to find a place of my own, I'm going to stay here and act like nothing's happened." It was very draining and it also started affecting my health and sanity, so something had to give. A fortnight ago on Wednesday, he moved in temporarily with his best friend.

It's been tough trying to adjust. It's almost like learning to walk again - it's a new routine, a new way of doing things. To say it was strange is an understatement, but, I'm slowly beginnning to come to terms with it. It doesn't stop me missing him like crazy - I still love him - and it's weird to find him not there in the morning, but right now there's nothing I can do about it, other than just get on with life and enjoy it the best I can. Fudge is being really clingy at the moment - I think he can sense that I'm still sad and upset, but also I know that he misses DH too. Fudge has started sleeping at the foot of the bed - this morning he was doing his impression of a furry six-pointed star, on his back purring and snorring at the same time!

I've started going to counselling and that has been a huge help. It's liberating to be able to sound off at someone who's totally neutral, who doesn't know your family and the baggage they carry around. My counsellor (Lizzie) is really great. Still, I'm worried about Husband, as I don't think he's properly talked to anybody about how he's doing or feeling. It's hard to guage, as nearly all my friends are mutual friends of his as well, so I don't know whether they're not telling me if he's talked to them because they think it might hurt my feelings or whether he's just not said anything. Hopefully I'll find out soon. If he doesn't face up to what's happened and try to mask how he's feeling by staying out every night or going to friends houses every night, not having total space and time on his own to reflect, it'll catch up with him sooner all later - and he'll crash and burn.

Meanwhile, to change the subject, I've started a new project, which I'm loving at the moment because it's so easy to stitch - I will take some photos over the weekend and post them so you can see. I'll leave you with piccies of Misty and Fudge.....

Here's Fudge hogging the bed.....

...and one of him ignorning me completely!.........

...and Misty being totally cute...awwww

Thanks for listening and thanks to you, my wonderful stitching friends, for making my blog worthwhile and for being brilliant. Take care xxxxxxx

I Knew I was 'Feline' a bit Weird

2006-08-01T22:22:00.000Z

You Are: 40% Dog, 60% Cat

You and cats have a lot in common.

You're both smart and in charge - with a good amount of attitude.

However, you do have a very playful side that occasionally comes out!

Are You More Cat or Dog?

Yes, I know, it's a terrible pun but it had to be done - I'm also a poet but didn't know it. Oh dear Carto, step away from the cringe-worthy gags before its tractor beam sucks you in!

I couldn't resist this, yet another personality quiz and thank goodness, I am more cat than dog. Not that I don't like dogs - if I could have one I would, but Fudge wouldn't be a happy catty. But it confirms the suspicion I've had for a long time...and I was wondering why I couldn't stop playing with Fudge's toys!

Busy Busy Busy

2006-07-31T21:24:00.000Z

Hey everybody, sorry it's been so long since my last post. I've been a busy bee, which is great at the moment as it gives me something else to focus on. AT LAST, I bring you photies of my WIP's and some of my Ireland photos.

Here are my WIP's:

Mermaid of the Pearls

She's coming along nicely, although it's been about a week since I've done any work on her.

Knotwork Garden

I was really looking forward to getting this finished - now it's packed away with other stuff that is too emotional right now for me to deal with. You can see where I stopped stitching...maybe one day I'll finish it.

Holiday Photos!

This is a place called 'Doonass' which is about 3 miles down the road from CastleConnell, Co. Limerick. At the end of the road, there is a Restaurant/bar and the dead end, which faces out on to the River Shannon - this lovely little island with the 3 stones is what you gaze out at, after buying the obligatory pint of Guiness at the end of a thirsty walk!

And the little spec in the middle of this picture is the Heron I saw when out for yet another walk down by the River Shannon. This was taken about a mile down the road from my Aunt's house in CastleConnell.

This is my Aunt's cat - the lovely Misty along with my tower of strength, alias Ma. Misty's such a cutie and a friendly puss. She started life as a feral cat. My Auntie took her in and Misty took a shine to my Auntie. She tried to get Misty to come live inside, but Misty wasn't having any of that as she was so used to being outside. So my Aunt got a local carpenter to make her a little wooden hut outside - and there she lives quite happily! It has all the mod cons, like a heated pad for the winter and blankets - there's no fear of this little madam. As you can see, she's eyeing up my Mum's breakfast cereal - "any chance of a spot of milk please?"

Finally, this is my Auntie's Sister's dog called Molly. As my Aunt is at home for most of the time, and because Carmel is normally out at work, Molly spends most of her time here. About two hours before this picture was taken, Molly decided to go for a dip in the river, hence the 'Dragged through a bush backwards' look that she decided to adopt. Luckily Molly loves water and adores being washed - it's a good job really, she's always in the river up to mischief!

So there you have it - Ireland really is a place to restore your sanity and soul and I shall be returning next year. I'll post a few more Ireland photies later on in the week - if I don't stop now I'll be pushing it to get all the photos on here! I hope that everyone is well and happy and as always, thanks for dropping by.

Have a good week my friends! x x :)

What Kind of Flower Are You?

2006-07-17T07:46:00.000Z

I am a
Snapdragon

What Flower
Are You?

"Mischief is your middle name, but your first name is Friend. You are quite the prankster that loves to make other people laugh"

I've just read Ali B's blog and she's a Daffodil (a 'sweetie' Daffodil in my view, if there is such a species!), so I decided to take the challenge. Ironically, I love Snapdragons and I do love making people laugh, but I wouldn't say I'm a prankster. Mind you I can be when it comes to my Mum - we're always trying to out-do each other when it comes to pranks, but I wouldn't pull a prank on anyone unless I knew that they would be ok with it. I know some people in my life who have hurt and upset people with pranks - that doesn't go down well with me.

Take the Challenge and see what kind of flower you are!

Have a good day fellow Stitching friends! xxx

Sorry for the Delay!

2006-07-15T19:26:00.000Z

Hey everyone - I'm so sorry it's taken a while for me to post. I thought that by now I would have been able to post some pictures but there's a problem. It's not with the camera thank goodness, but there's something on the computer that's preventing it from recognizing it when I connect it via USB. There is nothing wrong with the camera, the docking station or the software, as a friend of mine kindly plugged it into their PC and got it working no problem, so until I find out why my computer isn't recognizing it when it is plugged in, there's going to be no pictures I'm afraid, which is a real pain. I will be getting a new computer at the end of the month, as DH is taking this one when he goes, so I think that will be the end of the camera problem anyway. In the meantime, I'm going to get a USB card reader, as very kindly suggested by Natty - thank you Natty!x It will be handy to have if ever there are future problems - I should get it next week.

Last weekend I went on a 'Stitching Get Together', which was fantastic! There was about 17 of us, chatting, LOTS of laughing and showing each other what we had completed - it was good to get away from it all and this time, it didn't feel so difficult coming back home as it did when I came back home from Ireland.

I took along an L*K design, from the 'Thanksgiving' series, called 'In all Things, Give Thanks' - I finished the lettering on the bottom of the design last night. I'm not quite sure what I'm going to do with it at the moment, but I'm toying with the idea of making it a middle panel for a cushion cover.

Well that's about it for now. I promise I will post my Ireland and WIP photos as soon as I am able. Thanks for dropping by! xx

Today's Word on Sesame Street is 'Jinxed' !!!

2006-06-27T21:11:00.000Z

Houston, we have a problem :( Yesterday evening I tried to upload my holiday photos onto the PC and unfortunately, it looks as though the USB connection on the docking station that came with the camera is faulty - AAARRRGH!! In normal circumstances I wouldn't think much of it, but because of what's happened, I really think that somebody somewhere doesn't like me! I don't know how long this temporary setback will last, so I'm really sorry if you were looking forward to my pics.

It will be no doubt a series of emails to amazon.co.uk, as I bought the camera from their site - I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it won't be for too long. I've been an amazon UK customer for years and they've always been 'on the ball' in the past if ever I've had to return something faulty or damaged.

I've not made much progress on my 'Knotwork Garden'. I was in the middle of doing more work on it the night Husband decided to tell me his dreaded news. Since then, every time I try and pick it up it brings back the awful memory and as a consequence, I become a wet, soggy mass of paper tissues, so I'm focusing my attention on my 'Mermaid' for the time being. It's a good job I decided to buy some additional presents for my Sister's Birthday, or she would have ended up with nothing on 22 July.

I will keep you posted on progress - hopefully the situation will be resolved quickly so I can then show you my lovely photos.

I'm trying to keep everything in perspective. Every time I feel like holding a Pity Party for myself, I think of what I have and how lucky I am:

1. I have a wonderful family supporting me
2. I have solid friends
3. I have a roof over my head and food to eat
4. I have a great job, with supportive and understanding work colleagues
5. I have my health
6. I have my wonderful puss cat :)
7. I have the love and support of my fellow Bloggers (thank you x)
8. I have an ample supply of Chocolate!

My Mum really put things into perspective the other day when she found me in tears - and she said (imagine a strong Irish accent): "If you think you have problems, think of all the other people in the world who haven't got what you have" She absolutely right, bless her heart. I shouldn't be so selfish!

Until next time, love and light to you all.

Carto x x x :)

Bouncing Back

2006-06-22T19:43:00.000Z

Hey everybody! Well, I got back from Ireland yesterday evening - and it has done me the world of good (including my Ma who came with me!). We were visiting my Aunt, who lives in Castleconnell, County Limerick, which is right on the banks of the River Shannon. We had about 5 days of blistering sunshine, which was fantastic, and there was plenty of fresh air and the sound of beautiful summer days. I spent most of my time walking by the river, watching the Herons and Kingfishers diving into the water for food. It was pure heaven listening to the Bullfinches, Wrens, Song Thrushes, Robins and watching cute little Wagtails strutting their stuff.

I took my new digital camera with me and I've taken a few photographs of what I saw along with some gorgeous piccies of my Auntie's cat, called Misty. I will post them over the weekend and also, will FINALLY give you an update on my 'Knotwork Garden' and 'Mermaid' - Hoo-ray!

Just before I sign off, I would just like to say 'thank you' dropping by and a huge great big thanks to those who have sent me their kind words. The Stitcher blogging community is certainly a community filled with love and kindness. I still feel like I've been run over by a freight train, but with friends like you all out there, I'll know I'll make it somehow.

TTFN and bless you all!
Carto xxx

This is a Month of Heartaches

2006-06-11T19:53:00.000Z

Hi all

I just wanted you to know that I won't be posting for a little while. I am busy falling apart. On Tuesday 30th May, my Husband told me that he doesn't love me anymore, therefore we are in the middle of a separation. I'm numb and I'm scared...and really still in shock at the moment. The one and only man that I will ever love is leaving me - and I feel like my heart's been ripped out. I'm going to Ireland with my Ma from 14th June to 21st June to get away for a while to try and get my head together. At the moment it is scrambled and I can't think, feel...or do anything at the moment.

I've just read Ali's blog and read her terrible news - my pain pales into insignificance compared to what she must be going through right now, poor sweetheart. It seems to be 'Bad News Month' all round - the world's gone mad.

Anyway, I'll sign off here now. I'll try and post once I get back from Ireland - maybe I'll feel a bit better once I've had a week away. Please keep dropping by though - I've only known you all for such a short space of time, but I feel already that I have made lovely and wonderful friends with you all. Don't forget me.

All my love and hugs
Carto x x x x

Normal Service Will Resume Shortly

2006-05-29T20:02:00.000Z

Hey everybody, I hope you're all well and happy.

Sorry for the severe lack of postings at the moment. I just wanted to let you know that I haven't fallen off the planet. I've been itching to post about (and let you see) how my 'Knotwork Garden' is coming along, but I've come to realise that my phone camera is not good enough to do it justice regarding how much work I've put into it. You'll be pleased to know that I will be receiving a new digital camera in the next few days (I can't wait - hoo-ray!). Finally, I will be able to show you just how lovely the colours are and how it sparkles.

Until then, please keep dropping by. I really do appreciate your comments - they have made me smile and have kept me going on really bad days - thank you, you lovely people! x x x

Stitching 'To Do' List

2006-05-11T20:33:00.001Z

It's funny. Even though I have two stitching projects on the go at the moment, I'm already planning what to stitch next. In fact, I've already ordered the threads and beads. Check out The Phoenix, from Dracolair Designs.

The design consists of lovely deep reds, rusty browns, greys and golden yellows, with some Kreinik cord/braids and some Mill Hill beads thrown in for good measure. It will also be my first time using 'High Lights' thread from Rainbow Gallery. Apparently it is just like combining a strand of thread with a strand of metallic, but with 'High Lights', the combining has already been done for you. All you do is just wind off as much as you want, thread your needle and start stitching. Has anyone else used it before? If so, what did you think of it? I'm still awaiting the fabric. I decided in the end to go for the fabric that the model was stitched on. It's from the 'Reflections' range of hand-dyed fabrics from Silkweaver Fabrics, in this case, it's the 28 count Lugana in 'Sparkling Sundown'.

Here's another update regarding my 'Knotwork Garden':

I've nearly finished trimming the green knot with the gold/Kreinik thread. As usual, I couldn't wait to see what it would look with the flowers in the background so I have started to stitch them. I really should stop being so impatient!

Thanks for dropping by! :) x

'Need a Hand?'

2006-04-28T17:33:00.000Z

Awww - isn't he cute?! Even if I do say so myself, my gorgeous bundle of fur sure knows how to pose for the camera!

My elder sister came round to visit last weekend (the same sis that rescued Fudge puss, along with my Bro-in-Law), as B-I-L was working till all hours, so F came round to have a natter. She is also a cross stitcher, in fact she is the reason why I'm stitching today! Anyway she is working on a design by Amathusia Needle craft Designs - (this one is particular is called 'February Amethyst') and decided to bring it along last weekend. We were chatting happily (i.e., putting the world to rights!) whilst working on our respective stitching projects.

Then out of the blue, up popped Fudge on the table, which had F's chart and assorted threads spread all over it, and got comfy on said chart whilst purring like a Harley Davidson. Then he started to stare intently at the threads and everything else that was going on. F then got her mobile phone out and said 'I have got to take a photo of this!'. Then later when she got home she sent it over to me. And the end result is this rather adorable looking photie!

Fudge keeps me company whenever I'm stitching and purrs his approval whenever I take a break and show him what I'm doing (it's silly I know, but I talk to my puddy cat!).

Thanks for dropping by - have a good weekend :)))

Knotowork Garden - Further Progress

2006-04-28T17:19:00.000Z

As you can see, I have progressed rather well with my Knotwork Garden. I've been having crafty stitching moments as and when I can. I've even been going to bed early so that I can sit up for a while and do a bit before visiting the land of Nod. I'm concentrating on getting the main green outlines of the knot itself completed, before filling in the colour - I can't wait. I tried taking photo of the photo that came with the kit, but the end result wasn't very good, in fact it was rubbish - I haven't got a scanner, so taking photos with the mobile phone camera will have to do for a while. Anyway it will keep you guessing about the end result - all the more to surprise you with!

Have a good weekend :) x

WIP's In The Pipeline

2006-04-20T18:54:00.000Z

Hello again. I hope you had a good Easter break, mind you I'm not glad to be back at work. So far I've had a rubbish week, and I wasn't going to post because I was so fed up today, but then I thought "why should those 'barstools' at work affect my home/personal time?" Anyway, I decided to give them the old 'Two Finger Salute' then I blew a few raspberries into the air (well it was the back garden actually - I hope the neighbours weren't watching - you can just imagine them looking at some mad old twonk of a woman, flailing two fingers wildly into space and making bottom burp noises!!) and logged on to my trusty PC!

So, as promised in my last post here are some shots (and I apologise for the bad quality as before - I've got to get a new camera!) of some WIPs. The first photo is the WIP that I mentioned a couple of posts ago, yes, this was the reason for my goldfish-induced daydreamings. It's by Mirabilia and it's called 'Mermaid of the Pearls'

I'm stitching it on 14 Count green/grey Aida using DMC threads. The chart also requires Mill Hill beads and Mill Hill Treasures. I've committed the cardinal sin of stitching on the beads before finishing the bulk of the stitching, but I was so excited to see what the fin part of the design would look like with the beads on, I couldn't wait! I'll probably regret it when stitching the other half of the design, but I'll cross that bridge when I come to it. I'm using Madeira Glissengloss Rainbow metallic thread instead of the recommended Kreinik threads, as I've found Madeira is softer and easier to use, but I don't think it matters which brand you use, you still get the age old problem of getting the tension even and the slippy texture.

The next piece I'm working on is for my Big Sister's Birthday in July, entitled 'Knotwork Garden' designed by Mary Hickmott of New Stitches Magazine

It's on 18 count white Aida, using Anchor threads and Madeira Gold metallic thread. It is small enough for me to take in my bag to work, so I'm grabbing a few stitches in my dinner hour every day. Despite the poor picture, you can see that it's quite sparkly due to the gold edging around the green. I will keep you posted about how both of these are coming along.

I hope you're week is going better than mine - Roll on Friday at 5pm!

Take Care :)

Off Topic!

2006-04-13T21:12:00.000Z

Yes...it is terribly off topic (and I won't make a habit of it), but here's a cutie that wants to say "Hello"......

This is my pride and joy and my little ray of sunshine...my 7 year old cat, Fudge. He was rescued by my Brother-in-Law from a couple of street peddlers who were threatening to drown him because they couldn't sell him. He'd overheard them saying this and to put it politely, he asked them to hand him over, no he wasn't going to give them payment and if they didn't disappear he'd have something to say about it. I wouldn't want to bump into him down a dark alley at the best of times, but if you can imagine a 'Hell's Angel' biker holding a kitten, you can see why the two horrors decided to scarper!

Fudge fitted into the palm of my hand when B-I-L and Sis brought him over to me. The poor thing, he was riddled with fleas, malnourished and half deaf because of the ear mites that had infected both of his ears. The next day I registered him with the local Vet and got him checked over. He was diagnosed with a heart murmur as well, probably due to the lack of nutrition. We cured his fleas and ear mite problem, but the Vet prepared me for the worst....that he probably wouldn't live until after the age of 4...but as you can see, someone out there is surely smiling on him. His condition doesn't stop him climbing trees in the orchard directly opposite my house!

So there you have it. Normal transmissions will resume!

'Past Stitches' and 'Happy Easter!'

2006-04-13T19:58:00.000Z

I thought I would show you some of my past stitching achievements. Unfortunately, there aren't many (errr...only 2!!) because I've given most of them away to various family members over the years, but it will give you an idea of the sort of designs that I like to stitch.

'CELTIC CROSS'

It was designed by Mervyn Rogers from a company called Treasure Island Products based in North Wales. It was stitched on 18 count white Aida, using Anchor thread as recommended. I am quite proud of this, as it was my first large-scale project. I remember buying it at the annual Stitching Show, at the Olympia, London, in 1998. My best friend and fellow stitcher K convinced me that I would have no problems with it, and she was right! Apologies for the poor picture quality (will explain further on).

'CELTIC DRAGON'

This is another design from Treasure Island Products that I bought and stitched a year later. It is stiched on 14 count cream Aida, again using Anchor thread as the chart recommended. They also recommended to stitch with 3 threads instead of the usual 2, to bring out the colour. Unfortunately the picture doesn't do it justice, but I can assure you, it is very vivid in colour.

To explain the terrible pictures, my digital camera decided to go on strike. It's been on the blink for some time, but it decided it had had enough last night, so I had to borrow Hubby's phone camera. I waiting for pay day so I can go out and get a new one! In my next post, I'll show you my latest WIP (the reason for my 'empty-head' dreamings!), plus a few other WIP's that are 'in the pipeline'.

Thank you for dropping by, and have a great Easter :)

Oh dear!

2006-04-06T20:01:00.000Z

I started a new cross stitch piece a few weeks ago, which usually means that I can't think of anything else. Sure enough, I'm suffering from 'I'd rather stay at home stitching than go to work' Syndrome.

The other day, a work colleague was talking to me, whilst I reciprocated with my best goldfish impression. Yes, I've been reliably assured that I was (and I quote) 'as vacant as a toilet door' for a good 60 seconds or so. But why think of financial year end procedures, when you can spend your working hours thinking about which thread colour you are going to start using next?! I know it's really sad to get excited about seeing a brand new colour appear on your fabric, but I can't help it. Anyway, when I apologised and explained why my goldfish impression was so good, to say that my colleague looked bemused was an understatement. You could actually see that her face was saying 'she really should get out more'. But non-believers (or should I say non-stitchers) will never understand. Can anyone else relate to that feeling?

2006-04-03T05:24:00.000Z

Greetings!

Welcome to my blog! I have finally entered the 21st century (which is amazing as I can get lost going to my garden shed and back). I hope to entertain you and make you laugh while showing you pieces of my hobby, which surprise surprise, is stitching! I mainly do cross stitch but I have been known to do Needlepoint, embroidery and beading as well...so watch this space!