Whoomsa's Stitch and Stash

An update on Life

2010-09-01T20:41:00.003+10:00

I have been so anti social lately and I apologise to all my blogging friends...... I don't know where to begin. Well, we have been to the States and had a great time. But before we left, Teagan's boyfriend ended up in hospital and was told that he had Aplastic Anemia. So, just before we flew out, he was on the mend. A week after we arrive back home in Australia, I get a phone call from his mum to let me know that it had progressed into Leukemia. Needless to say, we have been devastated. He has just gone through the first phase of his treatment and is in hospital at the moment starting the second round and can't talk. He is on antibiotics for the infection in his mouth.....He is so sore and tired. Breaks my heart. Teagan is being so strong, I am so proud of her. They are both only 14......

I haven't done any stitching since the last update, but I hope to change that one day soon. Maybe when things settle down and I get more time. I just haven't felt like it.

My USA Trip

2010-07-21T18:06:00.005+10:00

Black Bear at Lake Tahoe

Kids in our friends pool in Livermore CA

Our friend, Cody (at work)

The Cabin we had in Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe (Teagan and Astley)

At Disneyland

As some of you guys may know if you have Facebook, I have been over to the USA again.....My whole family and I had 3 wonderful weeks over there. We spent 2 weeks with our friends up near San Francisco and 1 week in Disneyland (of course). We had our first 4th of July party, which we just loved! At a beautiful house with pool, fireworks and fantastic food. We had a few days in Lake Tahoe with our friends, we had rented out a 2 storey cabin with 2 other families.....We went jet skiing, white water rafting and generally relaxed. The highlight of the entire trip would had to have been seeing my first bear! He was huge!!!! A big black bear, going through the garbage at the front of our cabin at 2 in the morning! Thankfully, Grant had taken out all our food out of the car! LOL

Autumn at Hawk Run Hollow

2010-06-03T20:30:00.005+10:00

I have really been AWOL lately......Have been too busy to stitch a real lot as I've been concentrating on losing some weight, working and looking after my family. I have lost 12 kilos which is 26.4 pounds. I have been at the gym everyday after work and then walking in the evening. Anyway, I have slowed down on the walking in the evening and have picked up my stitching. I have completed one square

My eldest daughter has had quite a traumatic experience. Her boyfriend of 2 years is on exchange in Sth Africa and a week after he left, broke up with her. He comes back to Australia on Sunday. She is really scared to see him. Mind you, she has a new boyfriend, who happens to be one of his friends, so it will be interesting come Monday at school

Not For Us Alone

2010-03-26T23:17:00.008+11:00

I have been AWOL from blogs and stitching. Sorry about that. I just haven't felt like either. But I had signed up for a pin pillow swap and that is making me bring out the needle and thread. But I before I lost my mojo, I did complete part 4 of NFUA. Here is a picture:
I have also been busy with my eldest daughter. She just got her "L's" which basically means she can now drive if she has a licensed driver next to her. Then when she's 18, they can drive by themselves. So, she also had a 16th bday party. It was 50's themed:
Then a couple of weeks after that, we had her rowing dinner. Her grandmother made this dress:
Now, I must get back to some more stitching.....I think I need to

The Little Red House

2010-01-17T18:20:00.002+11:00

As you can see, I have finished the house in part 4 of NFUA.......Nothing else to report, just a quick update

Not For Us Alone

2010-01-13T20:52:00.005+11:00

I have finally finished Chapter 3 on this piece.....It was by far the hardest to stitch. I had to use a book of hers called "Autopsy of Montenegrin Stitch". Everyone was telling me that there was no way I could finish it without it. I had bought it about 4 years ago and had never used it. And that's when all hell broke loose! I searched for it everywhere. Pulled everything out of my cupboards and drawers. I couldn't find it anywhere. I searched for about a week and nearly ordered another one. After lots of &%$#*&^, I finally found it hiding at the back of my bookshelf in my craftroom behind a lot of magazines. Anyway, it helped knowing that I wasn't the only one who had trouble with this chapter....As you can see in the photos, I have now started Chapter 4, which I am really enjoying. I love the little red house.

Not For Us Alone

2009-12-27T19:41:00.006+11:00

I decided to pull out a sampler that I have been wanting to finish....I forgot how much fun Montenegrin Stitch can be and let me tell you, it is used lots when you stitch something from Amy Mitten!

A Couple of Finishes

2009-12-15T18:02:00.006+11:00

This was great to stitch and finish. It was a kit from the Shepherds Bush Retreat 2008....a Shared Stitches piece. It is so dainty in real life

I received some lovely threads from my good friend, Cece last week. So I decided to stitch her a little something as a thank you. I stitched this piece using her silk threads.

I also wanted to post an update on Astley. She survived her 3 weeks in Melbourne and so did I! LOL She has come back a little different, more grown up. It was good for me, too

Busy Bee

2009-12-02T13:33:00.009+11:00

Well, it's true, I have been a busy bee, but this piece is called Busy Bee......I just adore the button! How cute is it????

I have also finished Shepherds Bush 2008 Retreat Scissor Fob.....I still put 2008 on it, as I wanted to remember when I got it, not when I stitched it

Last, but not least, I wanted to update you all with some family life. My eldest daughter (15, nearly 16) is in year 9. All year 9's must go to Melbourne (an hour away) for 3 weeks of school. It's called CITY CITE.

I must say, I was so scared the first day, that I was contacting her all the time to make sure she was alright. Especially since one of the girls was hit by a car on the first day after 3 hours and ended up in a coma! This girl had only been at school a week after 4 months off after having brain surgery. I think she finally understood why I was stressing! She is staying with my cousin who lives in Balwyn Nth (45 min from the other side of Melbourne) and she had to catch trams and trains by herself. Any way, this is her last week and I can't wait to see her again. I'm sure it's changed her. This was taken last week in Melbourne

RR Update and a new start

2009-11-28T20:51:00.006+11:00

I have finished the continuation of my haunted house, with some Trick or Treaters.....Now, I'm calling out to anybody that may have a chart by Glendon Place called Grimm, Glum, Gloom. I would really love to put it in the gap that you can see in the photo. If anyone is willing to part with it, I am willing to purchase or trade, just email me!
Next up is a small quick piece by Shepherds Bush. Stitched using DMC and 28ct Lilac Linen, I am really enjoying this piece and am nearly finished it. Sometimes, it's nice to be stitching a small piece. I'm thinking of turning this into a large needle book or something similar. It would be nice framed, but I have so many pieces that are framed and put away in my cupboard. I'm still undecided at the moment. There is a gorgeous bee button to go in the arch.....

It's BACK!!!!!

2009-11-06T16:23:00.009+11:00

I can't believe I am finally updating my blog with these picture..... Many of you may know that I was in a RR group that started about 2 1/2 years ago. My first RR went missing on it's way to New York, so I started again. I prefered the second one anyway LOL..... Then, this one went missing, but was found again and I finally received it today in the mail. It has been all over the world. I now have some areas that I will stitch myself, so will hopefully get on to that pretty quickly so I can get it framed.

Halloween Party!

2009-11-03T13:37:00.008+11:00

We had a great time last Saturday night with our few guests.....I'm big into halloween as some of you might already know and Australia doesn't celebrate it like America does. But not this time! I decided to throw a party and it went off fantastically! Check out the photos

Melissa, Duncan and Richard

Duncan (Nephew) and Richard

L-R: Richard (Astley's BF), Teagan, Noel, Jenna and Astley (All my kids)

Jenna (daughter no 3 and son)

Halloween

2009-10-07T16:20:00.012+11:00

I've decided to decorate for Halloween this year. It's not a big thing here in Australia, but I've noticed the shops actually getting more stuff, so perhaps it's finally catching on down here! This time last year, I was in the States and we celebrated Halloween with our friends in San Francisco. Any way, here is a few photos of what I have done so far.....

2009-10-07T14:21:00.007+11:00

We have been in Queensland for a week and then took a week to get home. My brother lives there, in Surfers Paradise and we had an absolute ball!!!! He is so much fun! He's single and only 29 yrs old, so my kids think he is the best Uncle anyone could ever have. He went on all the scary rides with them and spoilt them with lots of attention! There were lots of tears when we left. We drove up and back and came home via Sydney. The weather was perfect! They film a show in Palm Beach, Sydney called Home and Away, so needless to say we had to see where that was. My daughter Teagan is in love with this show.

Lookie, lookie what we have here!

2009-09-08T16:08:00.003+10:00

Today has been a great day, but let me tell you, it just got better!!!! Today is my birthday and although I told my family I didn't want anything as we are leaving for QLD on Saturday, I did receive the best present in the mail. Okay, okay, I may have bought it, but still it doesn't get much better than this! It is Amy Mittens Shakespeare Sampler kit from the Swan Sampler Guild and Charland's Belltop and fabric for the Halloween Bellpull. I am so excited!!! What a great day to collect from the post office. Thanks so much, Cathy, that was so well timed

German Ostee Update

2009-09-03T14:56:00.006+10:00

I have an update on my German Ostee, from Martina (Chatelaine Designs)....My beads are not up to date, but couldn't wait any longer to share. I am struggling with the houses and I don't know why.....It's not that I can't stitch them, it's that I find it a little boring. I just love doing her middles, they are always fun with lots of different stitches and variegated thread. These houses are stitched in normal DMC, so that's probably why it's not as exciting to pick up every day. But I promised myself that I was going to stick to this one until the end and I have been. Although, I am one house behind....

Just Nan's Floral 15

2009-08-24T17:23:00.001+10:00

I have finally finished some stitching! Here is Just Nan's Floral Fifteen, but I decided to finish it differently. It looks like it has little feet. After I finished it, I thought perhaps I should change it to how it should originally look, but my girls loved it this way. Don't you just love the pins? I have also been stitching on Chatelaine Online 28, the German Ostee. I don't want to show a picture of that one just yet, as I want to wait until I have put all the beads on.

Teagan is 13!

2009-08-01T17:34:00.007+10:00

Sorry it's been so long since I last blogged, but as usual, life has been in the way of all the things I want to do!!! LOL

No stitching to report, but I do have some photos of what I have been up to the last couple of weeks. I made my second daughter a dress for her birthday and as she was having a tea party, it had to be pink. Everyone had to come in their Sunday best, but I'll let the pictures do the talking......Teagan is in the first picture

For each girl was placed an antique tea cup filled with pink erasers, a feather, beaded necklace and some pink tissue paper. The cups were holding up their place cards which were a photo of Marie Antoinette and their name printed on it, with a feather and bow sticking out the top. I even had Billie Holiday playing......

German Ostee update 2

2009-05-16T14:28:00.005+10:00

I finally finished putting in the last bead last night on my Chatelaine piece....It took forever. This is part 1 - 3, bring on June 1st for part 4. There is no way I could leave beading to the very end!! I just wish everyone could see this IRL, the Swarovski's just sparkle....I am truly loving this one. I have also been stitching on an exchange, but can't show that one - it's a secret.

On another note, an update with my job. Things are a little better this term (I work at a school and get holidays off)....They haven't gone back the way they were, but I am coping alot better now.

Lynn's RR going home

2009-04-29T18:26:00.004+10:00

I can't believe our Neighbourhood RR is over. I finished stitching on Lynn's last night and it was posted to Queensland today! It has been 1 yr and 11months since Lynn stitched on hers and has been all over the world. Well done, Lynn!

2009-04-23T14:02:00.004+10:00

Hi everyone, Jane's RR is ready to go to Lynn in Queensland. I also have Lynn's RR sitting on my craft room table and will get onto that asap. That is the last one. After two years, I'm nearly finished stitching on RR's.

Floral Fifteen

2009-04-15T18:26:00.008+10:00

I have been having a really busy time lately with the kids on school holidays.....But have been making sure I get some stitching in. I received Just Nan's Floral Fifteen in the mail yesterday and couldn't help starting it....I am missing one colour out of the kit which is on it's way to me. So, I will fill that in when I get it, probably next week.

There has been nothing on tele of an evening lately (due to holidays), so DH and I have kicked the kids out of the room to watch "Deadwood". I am so addicted to this series. I gave it to DH for Christmas and we finally are getting to watch it now. We were in Deadwood last October, so this is very interesting for us to watch.

Here is an update on Online 28. I only have the beads to do on part one

German Ostee

2009-04-08T16:05:00.006+10:00

Here is a new wip....It is the German Ostee by Chatelaine (c), her online 28. I just love the colours in this one. I have quite a few of hers, but have never kept up with it each month. I hope this time it will be different. When I've finished part one, I'll add the beads. Some people like to do all the beading at the end, but I find that way too much beading at once. So, I'll do mine as I go

2009-04-03T16:29:00.005+11:00

Yesterday, after work, I decided to come home and put together my Merry Cox piece. It was really simple and quick to put together....I just love the little scrimshaw ruler

2009-03-28T17:15:00.005+11:00

I have been madly stitching away on my Merry Cox piece for the online class that I am doing....It's called Americana Sewing Case and it's been such a fun stitch. The class for putting it together is on the 1st of April and I've only the little name plate to finish, which is almost done. I have 2 neighbourhood RR's sitting in my craft room waiting to be stitched on. I've started one of them, but had to put it down for this class. Anyway, I decided to change the wording on mine to say "Union gives strength" by Aesop, which means that when two people join in marriage they are stronger. I happened to stitch this on our 16th wedding anniversary (the 20th March) and wanted mine to have some meaning. The words down the spine are taken from Shakespeares' Venus and Adonis "Love comforteth like sunshine after rain"...I also put our two initials underneath my name and 16 in roman numerals between them.

I hope to have an update with the work situation in my next update.....Things are no different at this stage.

Trick or Treat Fairy

2009-03-01T15:10:00.005+11:00

I can't believe I have another finish! It's the Trick or Treat Fairy from Mirabilia....I was short on the big black beads, but they arrived and I finished her this afternoon. I haven't been feeling well the last few days and have had a couple of days off work, so I have been able to get some stitching done.

Happy Dance!!

2009-02-27T17:25:00.005+11:00

Happy Dancing for me! I have finished my M9.....I can't quite believe it! The official name for this Chatelaine(c) is Jardin du Roi, meaning the Kings Vegetable garden....

As for work, nothing has changed......Will let you all know if it does

M9

2009-02-17T14:29:00.002+11:00

I do have an update on the centre of my M9.....Only the outside to go!

On another note, I have had a terrible few days last week and this week regarding my job.....I've had to make some tough decisions and am now trying to cope with the consequences of those decisions. I'm trying to do some more stitching to take my mind off things......Hope to update more soon

My Favourite Photo

2009-02-10T17:09:00.004+11:00

I just wanted to update everyone with this beautiful photo! To me, this captures humanity for all in this terrible disaster. Koalas are not known for being approachable, but this just shows that even our precious animals need our help.....

Bushfires

2009-02-09T13:45:00.005+11:00

We have had a few sad days here in Australia....As some of you may have heard around the world, Victoria is having the worst bushfires ever imagined.....Over 107 people are dead and whole towns are completely wiped off the map! All this is happening only 150km or so away from us.

On a lighter note, I have finished the middle of M9, but no photo as yet....Here is some photos of my kids at the Torquay beach last Saturday where we had the hottest day on record. It reached 47c (118f).....This is the day the bushfires started

Mystery 9

2009-02-01T15:59:00.005+11:00

My kids: (L-R) Astley, Jenna, Teagan and Noel

I thought it was about time I updated my blog! I have been busy with kids these Summer holidays, going to the pool, taking them to friends houses for sleepovers, friends coming over for sleepovers, etc. You all know how it goes! LOL . Teagan and Astley started the new school year on Thursday with Teagan starting high school. She just loves it. Astley started Year 9 this year. I have put away Silver for a little while, I really have to be in the mood to stitch on her. But have been working on a WIP, Mystery 9 from Chatelaine(c)....I have to stitch the middle, some people have put crystals in the middle, but I think I will stitch the recommended piece for mine. I have alot of beads to put on and finish stitching part 12.

My Dad, me and my Mum

Grant and Teagan at her Graduation dinner for Grade 6 last December

2008-12-06T17:33:00.006+11:00

I am so sorry for not updating sooner.....But I just haven't anything to report until now. I have felt like stitching on Silver. Very slow going, but I think you can see some progress.

This was where I left off before these updated photos:

http://whoomsa.blogspot.com/2007/07/silver.html

And here is what the finished project will look like:

Here is a link to all the information - Silver

Chicago GTG

2008-10-03T12:45:00.003+10:00

As you may be aware, I'm in Chicago on the weekend visiting Susan. Very last minute, as I was not going to be in Chicago until Monday. But our family has moved across the States pretty quickly! If you want to come for a chat on Sunday, please see Susan's blog. I would love to meet you! Here's a picture of me with Pat B, a lady I'm in a RR with. I didn't know she was going to be at the retreat and I got a wonderful surprise to see her name on the list for the Banquet! I stitched on her piece a few months ago and we only just met last Friday!

2008-09-29T13:56:00.003+10:00

G'day everyone! Sorry I have been so quiet lately, but I have been travelling to the States and have had no internet access until now. I am in Rawlings, Wyoming. Just left Park City this morning. Please check out my USA Blog to follow my trip!

Scream House

2008-09-11T13:00:00.004+10:00

Lookie what I got in the mail today! I am so excited to receive this and can't wait to get started on it. But as most of us know, there are other things that need to be stitched first. I have a few presents to stitch up to take with me on our trip to the USA, so that comes first....

I love "Netty's Party Mix" jelly beans, the black mourning pins and the gorgeous black scissors. Gotta also mention the tiny little pumpkin beads! Soooo cute

Trick Or Treat

2008-08-28T15:03:00.007+10:00

I just had to jump on the bandwagon and start this gorgeous piece from Nora Corbett. I've decided to do mine on 32ct Purple Fog from Silkweaver with the recommended threads. She is a very quick stitch and really fun to do. I had to order the Kreiniks in and received some the other day. The rest is on backorder.

My other update is of LHN.....

Deb's PIF and Liberty Hill

2008-08-23T13:47:00.005+10:00

Deb has received my PIF that I did for her....So I can now show what I stitched. It just screams Deb, the colours, the girl, the prettiness of it. It is from Just Nan and is finished into a pinkeep.

I also had to share this with everyone....From Liberty Hill. Just love it (Obsessed with Anything Halloween) and have already ordered it. From Traditional Stitches

Katrina's RR and PIF

2008-08-19T16:49:00.006+10:00

I finally have an update on what I've been working on lately. I have been stitching on my SAL piece, but will show an update of LHN at a later date. I did have 2 PIF's to do, but so far can only show one. This one was for Sonda

I have also been stitching on Katrina's RR and just love it. Once I started it last weekend, I couldn't put it down until I finished it. The stitching came from Elizabeth Designs, Brightneedle and Hillside Samplings. The fabric is stunning and the threads just look great on it.

My Little House Neighbourhood

2008-07-26T15:57:00.009+10:00

I have been busy stitching on just one piece this past week....That isn't like me. But I am really enjoying this one and just don't want to stop. It stitches up really quickly. I'm doing it on 32ct Linen (can't remember what it's called. Pretty sure it a Lakeside Linen. Will edit when I find the packet) and DMC threads with one thread. There are quite a few of us doing this as a SAL

I also wanted to share a couple of photos of my kids and our puppy, Ruben. L-R Jenna, Astley, Teagan and Noel

Blogger Award

2008-07-25T21:26:00.003+10:00

I received a lovely award from Claudia! Please check out her blog, it is just fabulous and am so glad she awarded me as I hadn't read her blog before now.

Now I pass it on with the following rules:
1. The winner may put the logo on her blog.
2. Put a link to the person you got the award from.
3. Nominate five blogs.
4. Put links to the blogs.
5. Leave a message for your nominates.The absolutely hardest part is to nominate only five blogs. There are so many that I love!

But now I pass the award to:

Gilded Dragonfly

2008-07-14T12:54:00.007+10:00

I have finished Just Nan's(c) Gilded Dragonfly! This was a really fun stitch and I recommend it to anyone who loves Just Nan.....I only received the kit on July 2nd, but had to start it straight away. The scissors I picked to go with the case are Ginghers(c) called Ashley

I also changed the felt for the needles to an antique green that I had. I did think the pink was

too "lolly" for me....You can just see it under the scissor handles. My favourite part is the beautiful gold dragonfly

Thanks Edgar!

2008-07-04T23:35:00.005+10:00

I received this lovely parcel yesterday in the mail for the HOE LHN exchange! Thanks so much, Edgar! He also sent me a couple of patterns off my wishlist, some Bath and Body Works Lotion, Altoids mints and a totally gorgeous Pyn keep! He was a little worried that it wasn't LHN (our exchange had to be LHN), but a CCN pattern.....I love it no matter what. As far as I'm concerned, they are one and the same! LOL Thanks so much, Edgar, it made my day after a rough start....I was backed into while I was picking this parcel up from the post office. The front grill of my car is smashed in and the poor guy who did it (was from out of town), had only stopped at the post office to ask for directions to a funeral for his grandfather! He was having a bad day aswell

Dragonfly, Dragonfly!

2008-07-02T14:15:00.010+10:00

I received my kit for the Gilded Dragonfly Scissor Purse by Just Nan (c).....I just love the threads in the box (see them tied up in soft green ribbon?), the beautiful gold Dragonfly charm and the Gilt Sylke Twist.....I'm going to enjoy doing this one!

I have been stitching madly on Kathy B's neighbourhood and have not quite finished it yet,but I thought I would show a stitchy update

A Happy Haunting!

2008-06-28T16:05:00.009+10:00

My needles are smokin' lately! I have finished "A Happy Haunting" from Shepherds Bush (c) ....It was first released at their retreat in 2006. I really enjoyed stitching this piece. I couldn't go to bed until I had stitched the buttons on. I really love the bone button and the graveyard button...So, I stayed up until midnight last night, dropped it off at the framers at 1.30pm and my framer dropped it back to me at 4pm! What service! He usually isn't that quick. I am so pleased with my finish! I'm into finishing things at the moment. I'm sick of having so many UFO's....(Alison, I bought the matting online and it was posted to me!)

Flea Market Souvenir Finish

2008-06-18T14:53:00.004+10:00

This is my latest finish......Flea Market Souvenir by Blackbird Designs....I didn't really enjoy stitching the three fabrics together, as the linen squares don't match up with each other and there were lots of frogging going on! Anyway, I enjoyed stitching the fabric on and making it into a wall hanging

I just had to share what my daughter made for a school project! I think it is so cute and clever. She had to use certain things to make an alien and I just love the scourer for his tummy! His eyes are just buttons she found in my button jar, they happen to look like googly eyes....

Ta Da!!!!!!

2008-06-14T19:29:00.003+10:00

I am so proud of this...It has only taken 4 years, but I have finally finished my Merry Cox piece I got at the 2004 Shepherds Bush Retreat. It's called "Her Necessaire". It was nearly finished for most of those years, but only decided to pull it out last week. It took about 9 hours to put the whole thing together....!

Pat's Seaside RR

2008-06-09T15:41:00.004+10:00

I have just finished Pat's Seaside themed RR....I stitched most of it from Shores of Hawk Run Hollow....It will be on it's way to Queensland tomorrow!

Freebie Exchange

2008-06-04T18:03:00.005+10:00

I received a gorgeous package today from Aniza...in Malaysia. It's a gorgeous tape measure which she covered and designed herself and also hand dyed the threads herself! Thanks so much, I just love it!!!

Leporello Finish

2008-05-24T15:39:00.008+10:00

I can't believe I have finished my Chatelaine (c) Leporello. It was an online class over a year ago and I have only just finished it. I really love this piece and it was great fun to put together. I decided to go with my own hand dyed linen and I also used a different Silk Dupion and ribbon. The silk ribbon I used is Thread Gatherer "Wild Violets". I hand dyed the piece of felt for the needles, as I thought the white looked too stark against everything else. I also decided to add some silk dupion between the "pages".....Just to finish it off nicely. The thread rings are finished off with the wild violets aswell.

The outside

Inside

The Needlecase with Swarovski Crystal Butterfly

Beware, Witches are Coming!

2008-05-20T14:13:00.005+10:00

Well, here is a pic of RR no 2....My first one went missing a couple of months ago in NYC, I think! It was a sampler theme, but this time I decided to go Halloween. Another girl in our group has chosen this theme and I just had to do the same! I haven't quite finished stitching on it, but am extremely close....Watch out Jane B, it's on it's way this week!!!

Thanks Carol!!

2008-05-13T19:14:00.003+10:00

I received a beautiful PIF gift today! It is from the lovely Carol!!!! I am so pleased to have something from her, you must check out her blog as she does absolutely wonderful stitching......

THANK YOU, CAROL!!!

Anzac Day Weekend

2008-05-03T23:04:00.006+10:00

Last weekend, I had a lovely time with my mother.....It was Anzac Day Weekend and Mum and I had planned to travel around Victoria for a couple of days...I left my 4 kids home with my husband, mum came down to Ballarat from Bendigo on the Friday and off we went. We arrived in Colac after a leisurely drive and plenty of coffee stops along the way! Had tea in a pub in Colac and got up early the next morning so we had plenty of time at the rose nursery in Portland (Treloars). Finally arrived there, in the pouring rain only to find out it was shut! Had a look at some of the roses (there are acres and acres of them), before we decided we were getting too wet and muddy to go any further. Just not the same, when there are none for sale!

After some more driving and coffee stops, we arrived at Quamby Homestead.....Built in 1888. Mum and I stayed in the old schoolhouse. Absolutely beautiful.(Sorry the photo is a little lopsided. Had to sit the camera on a hedge! LOL) Had a gorgeous cooked breakfast in the main house and made our way home. A very slow trip home, as while we were in Mortlake, Mum noticed my tyres were low......Couldn't believe it, but I had three flat tyres! So, we just stopped at every servo to pump up the tyres until we got back to my place.....The kids were so glad to see me back. It was so hard to say goodbye to mum, as I don't see her very often, but am very glad I shared that time with her. I will treasure it forever!

P.S. Found out this week I had bits of steel in my tyres! Don't know how that happenend lol

I've been Pinkeeped!

2008-04-15T13:30:00.003+10:00

Thanks so much Cathy B from Minnesota! I love the pinkeep you have made for me for the Hooked on Exchanging board. I love the threads you sent also....The colours are gorgeous!!!! I can also show the pinkeep I made for Margaret in New Zealand

I've been Scissor fobbed!

2008-03-28T13:15:00.003+11:00

I received a beautiful scissor fob today from Mylene in the Netherlands! Thanks so much, Mylene! I just love it

Sampler Garden

2008-03-23T19:41:00.004+11:00

Sorry I haven't updated for awhile....I have been doing some secret stitching and I have also done some more on Sampler Garden. I'm really enjoying this piece. I love the colours...I've had a lovely Easter, quiet and peaceful, except I jammed my thumb in our car door and it has been so bruised, black and sore....! Thank goodness it's my left hand. I have got some more secret stitching to do and will show it all once they receive them

Fair and Square

2008-03-10T13:23:00.003+11:00

My F and S has arrived from Monique in the States! I love the theme and the colours she chose, just gorgeous...

You Make My Day

2008-02-15T16:30:00.005+11:00

I've just been given a You Make My Day Award by Alison....(Thanks so much, Alison!)

The rules are:Give the award to 10 people whose blogs bring you happiness and inspiration and make you feel happy about blogland. Let them know by posting a comment on their blog so they can pass it on

Susan - Afford Your Passions....A gorgeous girl I met in Utah at the SB Retreat who is Aussie and her parents live in the same town as me!

Carol - Garden Of Stitches....Inspires me greatly with her superfast stitching and beautiful finishing

Katrina - The Needle's Promise....Katrina does lovely stitching and am so happy to be in a RR with her.....

Deb - Lavender Rose Ramblings....Love Deb's posts! We both love Marie Antoinette!

Vonna - The Twisted Stitcher....A fantastic blog to read! What a wonderful stitcher you are!!!! And your finishing - just to die for

Mayté - MagicXstitch....Inspires me with her stunning stitching! You have to see the back of her work, absolutely the same as the front!!! Amazing!

Tempus Figit - Just check out this blog and you will see why it's on my list!! LOL

Mel - Stitches With Camels....Mel does lovely stitching, a true inspiration and we are Facebook friends!

Twinkle Pink....Gotta Love anything girly and vintage!

Lena - Homespun Hearts....Very inspiring blog! Love the finishing, simply divine

Here I COME!!!!

2008-02-14T16:23:00.003+11:00

Look out everyone, I'm coming to America and can't wait....Just booked our flights yesterday and we will be in the States for 6 weeks. Travelling from one side to the other. We will be there in September until November. Maybe I'll get to meet some of my blogging friends! I'm hoping to catch up with Susan in Chicago and Katrina at the retreat....No stitching to report, as I haven't had time....Work and kids get in my way! :(

Garden Of Love Update

2008-02-03T15:23:00.001+11:00

Here is another update:

A Scissor Fob on it's way!

2008-01-25T12:07:00.000+11:00

I have been stitching my scissor fob for an exchange. I can only show you the front, as initals are on the back and it's a secret! LOL

Sampler Garden, New Puppy and Heath Ledger

2008-01-23T15:58:00.000+11:00

I have been stitching on Sampler Garden Casket and have finished part one! I had to unpick and restitch including the basting, so I am really glad that I am on time. Next part is next month, so that means I have time to stitch a scissor fob and my part in the Neighbourhood RR....Busy, busy, busy!!!LOL Here it is with my kit. I couldn't believe how lucky I was to have picked such great colours...I had stitched this and then received my kit and they match perfectly! I'm very happy about that!!!!I also wanted to share a picture of my new little boy, Ruben.....He is named after the 17th C European painter, Peter Paul Rubens. He is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and is 8 weeks old. Isn't he cute????I realised after I wrote this post that I should edit it to pay tribute to Heath Ledger. I loved him and simply can't believe he has died.......He was truly an amazing actor and I just loved A Knights Tale, The Patriot and Two Hands. Missing you!

RIP

4th April, 1979 - 22nd January, 2008

Garden Of Love Update

2008-01-09T13:24:00.000+11:00

I have finally finished page 1 of Garden Of Love....I'm loving how this is stitching up!

Garden Of Love

2008-01-04T21:39:00.000+11:00

I've had this in my stash for quite some time and it was started, LOL, so I thought I would dig it out and do some more on it. It is the smaller version from Golden Kite and am thoroughly loving how quickly it is stitching up. I feel like I just stitch and stitch on Silver and not notice any difference, so this makes a nice change....That would have to be my one New Years Resolution (I wasn't going to have any this year) and that is to finish a Golden Kite Pattern

Xmas Exchange

2007-12-28T12:38:00.000+11:00

Ina has received my Xmas exchange, so it is fine to show you....I just love this design. It is by The Goode Huswife and I stitched it with Egyptian Nights silk and ribbon
I also wanted to thank Susan for the Christmas Card she sent me. It was lovely!

A different pace - quite long

2007-12-21T13:01:00.000+11:00

Majority of my posts are cross stitch related, but today I feel compelled to write about something else. I would really love any comments you have and any stories of similar situations. I recently purchased off ebay, but to my dismay, the shipping was quite expensive. Alot more than I thought it would be for a little frame. So, I asked the lady if there was a less expensive way or if I could have it shipped to my friends in California. Her reply was no, she had to ship to me, but said she was willing to cancel the transaction. I said okay. Then, I got a message with a not very nice email through ebay, so I replied. Now, she has contacted me about 12 times since yesterday with alot of name calling and abuse. I've asked her to stop, but that isn't working. I've thought about blocking her, but her emails just go to my junk mail folder, not bouncing back to her. My question is has anyone else had this problem? My one regret is, that when I emailed her back, I left my blog, etc in my signature. So, now she can look at anything to do with me, if she wants.

Something to Show

2007-12-17T13:39:00.000+11:00

Wow, I have had a good day today! I received my squares from Margaret in Las Vegas and I just love them!!!! I love the pattern she also sent...

I have started the Sampler Garden - Needle Casket SAL on Judy Odell's board....I have chosen all silks for my project on 32ct Vintage Linen.

This is what it looks like finished This is a Christmas Ornie that I received from Jeanine...I love it, thankyou! As you can see, it is already on my tree!!

Susan's RR

2007-12-04T14:47:00.001+11:00

Here is what I have been working on lately! Flat out, actually, trying to get all the pink stitched in the dress. I attached a little embellishment, so I hope it doesn't fall off in it's trip around the world

Mailart Received!

2007-11-27T20:23:00.000+11:00

I can finally show you one of my exchanges....Jaana in Finland has received my envelope and it is now safe to show you a picture.....The theme was Birds and she loves Celtic, so I thought I would stitch a Celtic Bird

Not For Us Alone

2007-11-26T18:54:00.000+11:00

I'm really enjoying working on this piece. Only a little bit more to show you, that I stitched a few days ago. I have been busy working on Susan's RR and a christmas ornie exchange....Can't show you that one just yet and I'll show the RR in my next post, when I have done a little more of it

Happy Haunting! Update and Bird Pressie

2007-11-21T17:47:00.001+11:00

I received this lovely envelope from Heidi......It was with the mailart exchange bird theme.....Love it!! Thanks Heidi

I also have an update of HH.....I'm really sick of the grass at the moment, so I started the wording for a change of pace. The words are stitched over one, so even that can be hard going after a while....

Not For Us Alone

2007-11-16T13:15:00.000+11:00

I know it is very hard to find a picture of this Amy Mitten Sampler....It is going to be stunning! It was a class piece, but is not available any more You can see the
Complete Picture here

M10/FMS update

2007-11-13T21:41:00.000+11:00

I have an update! M10 and FMS....I must admit, I'm really enjoying NFUA the most...I will post a pic of that one tomorrow

I've been busy with work and kids and I haven't been stitching as much as I like, but I do try to do a little bit every day, better than not at all, right?? (sorry about the flash for the M10 photo)

An Update

2007-11-07T13:04:00.001+11:00

I've been stitching on A Happy Haunting and M10. The fabric colour for HH is pretty true......I've also been stitching on the envelope that will go out next Thursday

Happy Haunting! Update

2007-11-03T13:35:00.000+11:00

I have been working on Happy Haunting and Amy Mitten's Not For Us Alone. I only have a picture of HH to show as there is not much to show for NFUA at the moment. I have also started a mailart envelope for someone, so I can't show it just yet. I have also signed up for a PIF on Carols blog and would like to let everyone know that the first three people to sign up on my blog will receive a stitched gift from me within the year. I only ask that those three that sign up do the same thing on their blog...Make something for three people

Happy Haunting!

2007-10-28T12:22:00.000+11:00

Happy Haunting! is my next venture....I received the kit and the matting a few weeks ago from the Silver Needle and thought I would start it. I want it done before the next SB Retreat. I know it's not for a little while yet, but I'm already thinking about it. LOL
I started this last week and it's stitching up really quickly. I just love the colours - purples and greens

This is the finished product

Sweet Baby

2007-10-24T19:21:00.000+10:00

It's been a while since I've posted, but I've been sick with Gastro. Haven't felt like stitching until now, so I stitched this up last night and just finished it this afternoon after I got home from work. It's from the new Xmas Ornament magazine and I stitched it using different threads than requested, but they are still variegated. I've stitched it for a friend and I hope she likes it.

Queen of The Needle Finished

2007-09-18T16:34:00.000+10:00

I am so pleased with how this turned out. Except for one side not seeming to line up quite right (which I noticed on Just Nan's piece aswell). It didn't look like the vase was in the middle, but it could be that the vase is stitched differently to the other side....Of course, there is no picture of that side as it's not my favourite LOL...... The second picture is more accurate of the true colours

Two Sheep Farm

2007-08-21T13:48:00.000+10:00

I have finished with Patti's RR. It is on it's way to Lynn

Queen Of The Needle

2007-08-14T19:46:00.000+10:00

I stitched this up last week and it was so much fun to stitch! I am really looking forward to making it into the gorgeous box.
Sorry the picture is a little dark.......the fabric is raw belfast linen
with AVAS Silks

Maria Bars - The Best Mail Day Ever!!!!

2007-07-27T13:52:00.000+10:00

I feel so lucky! I have had this Antique Sampler on layby for 2 1/2 years! I was finally able to complete my layby a couple of weeks ago and it arrived today - all the way from the USA! I just love it!!!! At first it looked like a print, but it was stitched so fine on the gauze. Unbelieveable. If I can get a close up photo of some of the stitching, I'll post it here.....Love you Maria Bars, 1824

A Brand New Finish

2007-07-23T14:10:00.000+10:00

It is so great to have another finish under my belt. This one is called Wildflower Garden by the Drawn Thread and I used the recommended Silk NPI threads. I have really enjoyed doing this one! I just wish the colours were brighter in the photo as it is really colourful in real life

Silver

2007-07-01T10:41:00.000+10:00

Well, I thought I should do another update in my blog. I have been busy stitching away on Silver. For those of you who don't know, I started stitching on this about 3 years ago. She is massive!!! 500 x 963 stitches......I am stitching her on 36 count. I estimated about 12 years to finish it. Here is a photo I took todayClick here for what it will look like eventually!
http://inlinethumb63.webshots.com/3262/1341549400061579349S500x500Q85.jpg

Welcome To My Neighbourhood

2007-06-06T15:07:00.001+10:00

Sorry I haven't posted for awhile...Have been really busy! (kids do that to ya!) Anyway, here is a photo of my RR that I won't see again for 2 years! It will travel up to QLD, NZ, USA and Europe....I pray I see it again and it doesn't get lost in the postal system....

I also wanted to share a photo of what my 4 year old son made in Kinder. A little Gingerbread Man

I've been tagged!

2007-05-11T07:47:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone, I have just found out that I have been tagged.....Thanks Susan!
Here’s how to play:
1. Each player starts with 8 random facts/habits about themselves
2. People who are tagged write a blog post about their own 8 random things and post these rules
3. At the end of your blog you need to tag 8 people and post their names
4. Don’t forget to leave them a comment and tell them they’re tagged, and to read your blog.

1. I have a certificate in Floristry
2. I adore Antiques
3. I love any era before the 1950's
4. My knees are "crunchy" from years of Netball....Play Badminton now
5. Love old movies, with Bette Davis, Joan Crawford....Gone With The Wind is my all time favourite
6. I sponsor a child in Africa
7. I love my Ipod
8. Was an extra in the mini-series "Always Afternoon" in 1987

I tag Jen http://amarkintime.blogspot.com/; Tannia http://ausxser.wordpress.com/; Anne ;
Nicole http://berlinowens.blogspot.com/; Mayté http://magicxstitch.blogspot.com/; Chelle http://themerrychelle.blogspot.com/ Debhttp://lavenroseramblings.blogspot.com/

C A Wells Pyramid FINISH

2007-04-23T09:45:00.000+10:00

It took alot of hours to finish this....I'm guessing about 50 - 60 hours...Well worth the feeling I have right now!!! LOL

I've ordered some 2 1/2" scissors to fit and am trying to find a 2 inch ruler to go into the other pocket

Ca Wells Update

2007-04-17T12:05:00.000+10:00

I have just come back from having the most wonderful weekend in Perth doing a C A Wells class! I have met some lovely ladies from America and South Africa aswell as the gorgeous Perth girls! I stayed with a lady I only spoke to over the phone, Judy and she and her family were absolutely wonderful! I miss her already!!!! :( C A was alot of fun and on the first day, I found it a little hard going doing the pyramid. ALOT of work...Sunday was a little more easy going and I actually finished the peacock piece! I can't believe I came home with something finished....Here is a photo of me with CA and Judy
Don't laugh! I know the pyramid isn't much and this is just the pincushion!! It took all of Saturday to put this together (inbetween the morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea - hehe)

Another Surprise!

2007-04-11T14:22:00.000+10:00

Well, I'm just spoilt again today! I received my second PS exchange in the mail...I received a darling little needlebook made out of banding! What a nifty idea. I also received my favourite needles, Petites, some floss and some fabby from Silkweaver! How lucky was I to be in these exchanges! Thankyou so much Nancy from the USA

These are the two exchanges together that I made for Elisabeth and Nancy. Needlebook on the left and Pinkeep on the right...

Bonjour

2007-04-10T12:45:00.000+10:00

Boy, was I spoilt today!!! I received my goodies from Elisabeth in France and was so over whelmed with what I received, I had tears! I have always wanted a Sajou Accordian Book and now I have one. I just love the biscornu that she made me! I will treasure these items forever. Isn't the tin just gorgeous? I have been buying the French Magazine for a little while now, but don't have this latest one! I am so lucky. Elisabeth, if you read this, merci beaucoup

This is what I gave Elisabeth.....I can finally show in full what I stitched! 1 over 1 cross stitch pinkeep with tiny pins and silk ribbon. It only measured about 1 1/2"x 1 1/2". Dinky dyes thread and some Assorted Cadbury Easter Eggs...

I have also finished all the Peacock Needlecase stitching! HOORAY!!!

Ca Wells Update

2007-04-06T11:03:00.000+10:00

Yey!!!!! I have another update...I have been working madly on this project to have it ready for Perth. Boy, it's been hard with kids off school for two weeks (holidays) The Peacock one has been growing on me....

CA Wells Update

2007-03-28T14:58:00.000+10:00

I thought it was time to show an update of my CA Wells Pyramid Etui and this time I also have a photo of the Peacock Needlecase aswell. I'm not that keen on the colours of the peacock, they are too bright for me. If it wasn't for the class in three weeks, I wouldn't be doing it. I love stitching it, the colours are just too bright. Perhaps I should have changed them, Oh well. On the other hand, I love the colours of the Pyramid. Very soft....

Exchange Preview

2007-03-25T13:11:00.000+10:00

I couldn't wait any longer! LOL Here is a preview of my two exchanges on the Prairie Schooler Group.....One's a pinkeep and the other a needlebook

Flea Market Souvenir Update and ATS

2007-03-19T13:15:00.000+11:00

I have been working on a few things over the last week and I have a photo of Flea Market Souvenir to show....No photos of CA Wells just yet. I also felt like working on ATS, which I am really enjoying doing.... I have been working on a couple of exchanges which I can't share just yet. Not until they receive them, but they are looking really good, I wish I could keep them LOLATS

Flea Market Souvenir

Marie Antoinette

2007-03-14T12:15:00.000+11:00

Marie Antoinette - Official Site Check out the photo section - LOVE those shoes and cushion!!!

Well, last week I went and saw "Marie Antoinette" (directed by Sofia Coppola) with a girlfriend and our daughters...Since I love period costumes and eras, aswell as learning French, I thought this would be a great movie to see. I had heard bad reports about it, but I LOVED it!

I have also been working on CA Wells again this week...Only 4 weeks to go and I also have the Peacock one to start. I have booked my flight and can't wait! I will post a progress picture very soon!

Merry Cox Flowers In The Fall and Shepherds Bush

2007-03-08T10:05:00.000+11:00

I was so excited to go to the Post Office today and get my package! It was MERRY COX'S ACCESSORIES TO FLOWERS IN THE FALL!

Here it is at the Shepherds Bush Retreat!

Now I just have to finish my stitching! ;)

I had to just edit this post to include the last charm that came in the mail for my Cherish Bracelet from Shepherds Bush....The Bracelet is now complete (But the stitchin' aint!)

This is what the stitching will look like completed.....I've done about half

Flea Market Souvenir Update

2007-02-26T14:22:00.000+11:00

I have been working on my Flea Market project and decided to give the CA Wells project a rest for a little while. The CA project is pretty quick to stitch, which I didn't think it would be. I have started the green section of the FMS and it won't take long to stitch. Had a busy weekend with DH Birthday on Friday and then my third daughters birthday on the Saturday. Have my eldest daughters birthday this weekend! Then, that's it for awhile

Indy 500 Mailart!

2007-02-23T09:51:00.000+11:00

I received a wonderful mailart yesterday from Denise in the International Hoosiers Exchange!

CA Wells Update

2007-02-20T13:45:00.000+11:00

Well, I have a CA Wells class update! I have done alot of stitching for the upcoming class in Perth. I must say that I am absolutely loving every bit of the stitching for this so far....

And here is a picture of my gorgeous Retrievers, Lilley and Maggie

Flea Market Souvenir

2007-02-13T07:35:00.000+11:00

I have managed to do some more on this aswell as finish stitching an envelope that will be sent to the USA on Thursday....I can't show you that yet :( Wouldn't want my recipient to see it yet!

As you can see, I've gone crooked with my stitching (on the right), because I'm manipulating the thread....Hate the lines of variegated thread!!!

I'm going to be busy over the next couple of days....I have Badminton this morning, then MIL is coming and then I have my French Lesson! Tomorrow, my Son has kinder (I maybe going to help my girlfriend deliver flowers for Valentines Day) and my parents are coming with my Nana for the afternoon and for tea.... With four kids, life can sure be busy can't it?

Flea Market Souvenir

2007-02-11T18:21:00.000+11:00

I know, I know!! I have so many projects on the go, why do I start another one? Because all my others are so big and involved, I really felt like an easy one that I can finish pretty quickly... It is Flea Market by Blackbird Designs that I bought when I was in Utah for the Retreat last year. I bought the fabric while I was there from R & R, but have subbed some of the colours.....Not because the ones they chose weren't nice, but just wanted to use some in my stash. :)

This is what it will look like finished!

2007-02-06T12:29:00.000+11:00

I am a
Canna

What Flower
Are You?