```Di's Workshop!!!

DAY 31--

2012-01-31T19:09:00.000-05:00

Well--we are nearly done with the first month of 2012--
can you believe it????
I have to say that for the first month--
I have been on a 'wild' ride--
with doing all the Counted cross stitch starts--
Here is the latest one--

Surprise--- It is a Santa ornament for the monthly Christmas Challenge--
Just decided '2' days ago to join--

and then I had to go hunting for a pattern in my stash--
Found this chart and it helped guide me==
but I did alot of my 'own' things to Santa--
I mean he has to have 'white' fur on his coat==
not green!!!!!
I also have some total finishes--

Here is the January Words project--
I did use a larger count fabric and did change out some colors--
just love how this turned out!!

the lamb one--like this one too--

And the here bunny one--
thought I had some bunny fabric==
but it was all 'chicks'--sooooo--
I used it--

and here is a look at the tiny bunny button!!!!

This one is a finish as far as the cross stitching goes--

but have not decided if I want to frame it or make it into a pillow--
there is a series of 4 of these--so would need a frame that will look good with each of them--
I have no room to put each in it's own frame!!!!

And I still have 12 other starts to finish and one ufo!!!
and I need a metal==I have never done cross stitch for 31 days straight and to have finished basically "5" projects--welllllll!!!!!!
Smiles :-) Di

DAY 30--

2012-01-30T19:34:00.000-05:00

Oh my goodness--
I have managed to do counted cross stitch for '30' days in a row--
wonder now if that means I have a new habit????
you know they say that if you do something for 21 days in a row then it is a habit!!!!
Today I started a new piece--

Can you tell what it will be????????
Hopefully tomorrow it will be finished--
we will see--so come back then!!!!

Smiles, :-) Di

DAY 29

2012-01-29T22:17:00.000-05:00

I did it--
another finish as far as the cross stitching goes--

and look who helped me--

Miss Gracie--she often lays here on the floor where she can keep an eye on me while I am sitting at the table stitching on the counted cross stitch projects!!!!

Wonder what one I will work on finishing next--
I have 12 more started-sooooo????????????
Smiles :-) Di

DAY 28

2012-01-28T18:58:00.000-05:00

Well this month is almost gone--
but so far I am still cross stitching some everyday--

I am hoping to finish this one by the end of the month too!!!
good stitching to everyone--
specially that "mouse" person!!!
by the way--mouse did I tell you how much I really like mice????
You should see my bathroom decor????
Smiles, :-) Di

DAY 27--

2012-01-27T19:02:00.000-05:00

New project from the new starts--

Chose this one to finish next--
Here is what I got done before--

and here is where I am at now--

I think the Lambs need an eye????
this is a fun one to do as it is on only 6 ct fabric--
but--I can have to frog!!!!!
Smiles--:-) to Mouse--
from Di and miss gracie

Day 26

2012-01-26T18:46:00.000-05:00

And I am sooo happy----
As I have another Finish---

Miss Gracie must of been in a hurry for me to finish this one--
she only let me get a half hour rest before she got me up again!!!!
But I need those rests to rest my eyes at least--so that I can do some counted cross stitch!!!!
this looks like it is crooked on the cloth--but it is just the way that 'photographer' took the picture--
I will have to send Miss Gracie to camera school so she doesn't do it again!!!

and yes I think I do have the next project picked out to finish!!!!
Smiles :-) especially for Mouse!!!
and the rest how lurk around--
Di and Miss Gracie

DAY 25--

2012-01-25T19:53:00.000-05:00

Here is some more stitching done--

done at 1 am this morning after an hour nap!!!!!
Miss Gracie must think that I really like stitching at this time of ~~day~~night as she seems to get me up every night at this time and wants to play--
so she plays and I stitch!!!!!
Smiles :-) Di

Day 24

2012-01-24T20:15:00.000-05:00

Hey this is fun--
I really have a daily journal going here--
at least for the counted cross stitch--

See got alittle more done--2 snowflakes here on the left and half of this design that is on the end--
thought the design would be hard--but it is really easy really!!!!

Hi Mouse---
Smiles :-) Di

DAY 23--

2012-01-23T19:29:00.001-05:00

First I need to show off my 'ort' jar--

Can you tell that I did alot of counted cross stitching this month????

The next now 'wip' counted cross stitch that I am working on is--

this one---the 3 items in the far right corner are newly stitched--
at around 2 am this morning!!!!
This one you use silk thread with--
ohhh--soooo soft and satiny feeling--love it!!!

Happy stitching to Mouse, Kate, and Anne lise!!!
Smiles :-) Di

DAY 22--

2012-01-22T18:41:00.000-05:00

And a finish as far as the stitching goes--

I have to say that "I love it"--
but it was a challenge in itself--
but part of that could be because I started this on day #16--
and I was getting alittle "knotty" by then--
I do not think I have ever managed to do some counted cross stitch for now--
at 22 days in a row!!!!!
WOW---
Had wanted to finish this off today toooo--
but I had a sewing problem and that needed to come first--
read all about it on my other site--
Smiles to Mouse--and Lola--
Di

Day 21--

2012-01-21T19:21:00.000-05:00

Today I only had time to really work on the counted cross stitch--
but that is ok--

cause we are just humming along with that needle--
today I finished all the words--scarf and snowman are new--
and did the three little trees at the top--
am hoping--hoping to finish this up tomorrow--
everytime I post on the yahoo site, and I see all my other starts--
well--I want to do finish them all--tomorrow toooooo!!!!!
Smiles :-) Di

DAY 20--

2012-01-20T19:16:00.000-05:00

Well--this piece is multiplying it's stitches by the day and night--
Here is where we are at at the moment--

I love all the colors so far that I have chosen--
I still have 2 words to stitch in, some trees, 3 birds and snowflakes--two of them are on the large size--
I am so glad that I joined the crazy challenge--that is the only way that I would be doing counted cross stitch projects!!!

Did get in the other 2 colors of green fabric--

the one on the far right is the one the pattern called for--

I like both of the new ones--but have no idea which one to use for this sampler--
the lighter one would probably be the right one--but is a bit 'brighter' green that I would like--
love the middle one--but I believe it would be too dark--
boy are some projects 'difficult'??????????????
Smiles :-) Di

DAY 19--

2012-01-19T19:49:00.000-05:00

and the needle continues to go in and out of the fabric--
at all times of day and night!!!!
Here where I am as of now--

One complete wagon and two wheels and a snowman started--
His scarf is stiff from the cold so it is standing up just waiting for Mr. Snowman to appear!!!!
Smiles:-) Di

Day 18--

2012-01-18T19:49:00.000-05:00

I just realized that I have done some counted cross stitch every day so far this year!!!!
I don't think I have ever stitched on cross stitch this many days in a row before!!!
Here is some more progress on the Words one--

got some more of the words in and then went to the wagon--
yea--that is what that funny looking thing is over by my thimble!!!
I am doing mine in a burgundy/red color, instead of the orangy/brown color!!!
can't wait to get this in and the snowman that is in it, in!!!!

Happy stitching--
Smiles, Di
PS--I have been knitting some in the evenings--
but am working on knitting up cotton dish cloths for my gift giving tote box and to use up some of the surplus cotton yarn I have--but am getting 'itchy' to start another shawl!!!

DAY 17--

2012-01-17T19:46:00.000-05:00

No fairies so far--
so I had to make a decision--
I went through my stash of cross stitch cloth last evening--
and I actually found one that is the exact color as the 36 ct--
only it is only 28ct and soft to work with--

and here is where I am now--
and here is yesterdays--

the camera makes this one look darker--
but believe me they are the same--
now with the larger count, the new one will come out alittle larger-
but that is ok with me--
and while I was starting over--
I decided I wanted some blues in mine--
I do alot of blue snowmen after Christmas--

so I am having fun picking my own colors--
but let me tell you--this new one has not been a 'picnic' either--
first I got 4 letters in of 'winter' before I discovered that I was stitching it in the wrong direction--
so had to frog that and start over--
and I have no idea what it is about 'e'--but the 'e' in sleigh--
I redid it 4-5 times before I got it right?????

Smiles, Di
WELCOME TO ALL THE NEW FOLLOWERS!!!!

DAY 16--

2012-01-16T19:37:00.000-05:00

I did one more Day 16's--
I would like to do these monthly designs --
but seem to be having a really hard time with this cloth--

It is 36 ct and is an uneven thread one--
It seem to take me forever to get a letter done--
I think I "frog" each stitch 2-3 times before I can get it right--
and then??????
Here is the pattern--

But is this not the cutest little pillow--
I picture them in my wooden bowl on the table or in my wood cabinet!!!

This has been alot of fun--now to finish some--
want to do this one first--
then the plan is to finish yesterdays--Merry Winter--
and then--who knows????????????
Happy stitching--
Smiles, Di

DAY 15--

2012-01-15T17:11:00.000-05:00

Oh wow--this was Day 15--
so now the little counted cross stitch fairies come out at night and will finish these 15 started counted cross stitch projects for me--

Ahhhhh--won't she??????

Here is the 15th pattern--

actually I have a set of 4 of these--
one for each season--
and here is the start for Day 15--

The pattern uses silk threads--
they are really nice to work with!!

Well--I may still see you all tomorrow--
I have one more start I want to do right now--
am doing the 'word' pillows by "thy needle and thread"--
and finally have January's in and the fabric and all the threads--
so there is nothing stopping me, now--right?????

This has really been fun--
I had hoped though to get to met and make friends with a couple cross stitchers--
but not sure that has happened as yet==but then we have all been so busy --stitching--that?????

Smiles, Di

Day 14---

2012-01-14T19:44:00.000-05:00

Well--crazy stitchers we are at Day 14--
I have such a routine going here--
Here is the works for today--

I am soooo happy that she is all stitched--
and here is the pattern for today--

I just love this sampler and what it says--
makes me feel really 'young' once again!!!!
this one is a substitute for another one that I really had planned to do--
but am having a terrible time finding the right color and count cloth for that one!!!

See ya tomorrow==
Smiles and happy stitching fellow stitchers!!
Di and her fur ball--

Met Miss Gracie!!!

DAY 13--

2012-01-13T18:52:00.000-05:00

We--rather I am nearly at the end of the 15 days of the crazy starts--
though I have gotten lots of new patterns that I could keep going til the 31st--
but have decided to stop on the 15th and get some of these finished first--
So today's pattern is this one--

and here is what I got done so far today--

I think for every two stitches I put in today--I took out four!!!!!
and I ended up changing some thread colors again--
but that is one of the reasons that I have enjoyed starting these--
the challenge for me will be to put down the quilting needles or to come out of the sewing room and take time to sit and work on all these 'wip's' now!!!!!

Happy stitching you'allllll--
Smiles, Di

DAY 12--

2012-01-12T18:52:00.000-05:00

Today's was one where I unpicked as much as I stitched!!!!
This was the one for today to start--

I thought it was be a easy one as it is done on 14ct aida--
so I did not get the fabric ready with the lines --
so had to do that first--
then started stitching--only by the 4 or 5 colors I discovered that the colors where too close in color and where coming out next to each other==and welllllll--
it just was not to my liking--so---
out came the floss boxes and I worked for awhile repicking floss colors--
I use Cosmo's thread instead of DMC so that was part of the challenge--
I finally like the new colors and did get this far--

But I never seen a witches hat with these colors--
was sooooo tempted to just use black and a dark purple for the whole hat!!!

Smiles, Di

DAY 11

2012-01-11T18:30:00.000-05:00

Today's stitchery was different--

It is to be stitched on 6ct--
Hey that sounds really really easy--
and that part is!!!!
But I had to decide to use 'silk' thread--
and you have to use 3-4 threads--so it takes time each time to line them up and thread your needle--
then you have to be careful as the threads are alittle 'slippery and they do snag easily--
but I did finally get this much done--

So I guess we are 'smoking' along!!!!

are we at 15 yet???????
Smiles, Di

DAY 10==

2012-01-10T19:36:00.000-05:00

We are moving right along here--
Here is the pattern I chose for #10--

I just love this saying--
it is so cute and when you read it it buts one in a good mood--
Here is what I got stitched on it today--

This is being done on 35 count--first time I have done anything on this count--
but seems ok--I did order (2nd time around) a lighter background cloth--
when the first one came in it was way too dark for me and you could not even see the pretty color of blue 'silk' thread--like this better--have changed out 2 other colors also for this one!!

See ya tomorrow--
Smiles, Di

DAY 9--

2012-01-09T20:03:00.000-05:00

Well we are now done with the 9th start--
I worked on this pattern today--

and here is what I managed to stitch for today--

I did have some 'problems' with this one--
not so much with the stitching as more like with the colors--
so I ended up changing 3-4 of them --more to my liking and mainly more to go with the fabric--
In doing so--
one was the face of the angel--the first one they gave me--was nearly the same color as the cloth
so that would not work--then I tried this one--

and decided that it was way toooo pinky--I love pink--but this was not going to do it here--
and then I found one called 'sand' and it seemed to the trick as you can see in the 'works' picture--
So really like this cloth--is soft and easy to work with and the pattern itself is good--could of kept going on this one!!!!

On to day 10--
Happy stitching--
Smiles, Di

DAY 8---

2012-01-08T18:35:00.000-05:00

Wow--we are half way through--
well-- that is if we are doing the "15 day" challenge!!!
I could easily do the 31 day one===but easy does it---
Today's pattern has been a challenge for awhile now--
it is one I won on a blog site a few months ago--
and I have started twice before--

that large Robin is in the center--and I always start mine in the center--
so last night before bed--
I did 'frog' the second attempt out--
And
then I started over-- and finally I was successful--

and I even got 3 of her babies stitched in that are learning how to take a bath!!!!

I have learned to stitch those center lines in--
and boy does it make a difference--
but --
I still do alot of 'frogging' as I go--

See ya tomorrow--
Smiles, Di

DAY 7-MEOW!!!!

2012-01-07T19:02:00.000-05:00

Meow Meow--
Today's start is a sampler with cats through out it--
and if you aren't careful--
you may step on a 'mouse' or two!!!

And here is what I managed to get done today--

two 'whole' letters one large cat--and one small mouse!!!!

See ya tomorrow--
Smiles, Di

Day 6 and????

2012-01-06T19:38:00.000-05:00

So far I have made it through Day 6 of this challenge--
I mean 'crazy' challenge!!!
this is the one for today--

And looky here--

A finish for this one toooo--
even had the right bunny button--
though I do have another bunny on order--
so will wait to see if I like that one or not????
and I am even using my bunny scissors!!!!

I also got one of these in today--

BUT--I do not like them at alllll--
don't know if there are different brands of these or what--
but this pair is not good at allllllll!!!!

And I forgot to show you what the mail man has left me the last two days in my mail box----
Yesterday these came--

and I have lots and lots of threads--
but---
I lack 20 colors to do these '4'?????
Today these came--

These are both kits though--so everything is there--
I may add the duck one to my crazy pile, seeing how I finished one!!!

Well--keep stitching--
Smiles, Di

DAY 5

2012-01-05T19:20:00.000-05:00

I just love this little cottage and could not wait to start it--
was so happy to see it was the one for today--

and here is what I managed to get done on it today--

Oh--Look--my window panes look crooked--
must be the angle I photographed it--
as they don't look like that when I look at it!!!!
this did take me awhile for some reason to get this far today--
I stitch from 1pm to about 3:30 pm everyday--
that is nap time for Miss Gracie--my fur ball--so it is nice and quiet here then!!!!

I am considering not putting the words Cherry Hill on it--
might put Di's cottage on it????
time will tell, I guess--
what do you think????

Smiles--Di

DAY 4

2012-01-04T18:46:00.000-05:00

Today was an easier one--

for this one you used 14 ct aida--
and that always seems to work up faster than the other counts--
so I got it half finished today--

Wasn't I a good 'girl'?????

Now for the real story--
No Miss Gracie did not do this!!!!!
The one that was actually next in my basket was this one--

and I love love this one--
even that green background--
so when I bought this pattern--I had to do alot of hunting on the Internet to find the right cloth--
when I got it out to do the basting of the center stitches, I had some trouble working on it because of the smell of the cloth--so left it out to air out--
could not sleep last night so got up and decided to start Day 4th's project--

I started with the lamb and her ear--
welllllll--
first the smell is still bad and (this looks, smells, and feels like burlap!!)
second--I do not like this cloth or how the stitches are coming out--
they just look like a ball of knots--not 'x's--
so I have ordered some different fabric for this one--
just hope the color is right--

well--tomorrow we do Day 5----
Smiles, Di

DAY 3--

2012-01-03T19:49:00.000-05:00

I did start today out with some hand quilting as it was my friend-Anne's day to come--
and we quilt together and I fix us some lunch--
but once she left--
I got in my 'counted cross stitch' chair and away I went--
and I 'frogged and frogged' --
took me 4 starts to get it going--

Today's pattern was Bliss by Bent creek--

and I got this much done--
I have had to change 3 of the colors though--
the one they wanted me to use for the heart--
looked the same as the background color--not good!!
and the colors they choose for the Abc's where just --
ah--just--not to my liking--so am changing them too!!!

I really am enjoying this challenge--
but we will wait for day 15 to see if I am still saying this????

Smiles, Di

DAY 2---

2012-01-02T19:04:00.000-05:00

Well--I ended up starting the stitching on Day's 2 at about 2am--
could not sleep--so figured I might as well be getting on with the program--

Here is my second start--
pattern is the French alphabet--
love working with this color--
am amazed though how much thread I am using!!!!!

I have discovered that the line-threads are a great help--
first time I have ever used them for cross stitch--
added more on this one--as it really needs it--
or --- should I say--I really need them for guides!!!!!!!!!!!

See ya tomorrow--
Smiles, Di

A NEW ADVENTURE IN THE NEW YEAR--

2012-01-01T21:13:00.002-05:00

Here we go again--
Di has signed up for the "Crazy 2012 Challenge"--
and we have to pick 15 counted cross stitch projects--
then from Jan 1st to Jan 15th--
we start a new one each day--
so here is my first project--

you probably guessed it had to do with cats--
and here is what I got done today--

One large pumpkin and one kitty--
so now tomorrow I will be back with the 2nd one!!!
Oh here is my work area for the next two weeks--

Exciting hu?????

Happy New Year to each and everyone of you--
Smiles---Di and that 'cat'!!

WORKING RIGHT ALONG----

2011-11-13T19:13:00.000-05:00

Remember this photo--

Well--here is where the little heart blocks went--

On this baby hat--

I am now in the process of knitting a baby sweater to go with this little hat!!!

And I knitted these up--

for our local Santa give away--

working on some more!!!

And here is my finish in the crochet class--

I thought I would 'croak' on sewing on those 'frogs'--

they were alittle tricky--and I finally managed to get my mind and my eyes and my hands--

to all come together and now looky see!!!!!

The color is off here some--the sweater part is a hot pinky color--

but those are dark purple frogs--and the trim is done in a varied purple colors--

kept looking for a green for the trim--but--

I mean aren't 'frogs' suppose to be green??????

Have fun--keep doing some kind of stitching!!

Hugs, Di and a silly cat

KNITTY NEWS--

2011-11-07T20:37:00.001-05:00

OK--

I am going to be putting my 'yarns news' here--

and I have been busy as you all know--

with all kinds of needles and yarns--

Here is what's up for today--

In the post today I got an order in for some more new circular needles--

and a pattern and some yarn--

the pink yarn is to make that sweater with--

the green one is for ??????

I finally got a couple things blocked--

the new knitted necklace--now I can get the clasp sewed on the ends and wear it---
and the 3 purple heart blocks are for my knitting class tomorrow and will go on to a cute baby hat--then I will also be starting another baby sweater to go with the hat--!!!

I got my first pair of socks all finished--

(I had made a pair or two a couple years back--)

these are done from the top down--

and will be a Christmas gift--

also a second pair of socks--is in the 'works'!!!

these are started from the toe up--

and I am knitting baby hats again--

not sure if these will go to a hospital someplace --

or what yet--

I have another Santa hat started--

Well--I need to do some blog reading and then get to finishing my homework for a crochet class and a knitting class tomorrow--

OH and I have to go vote in the morning!!!

See ya--Hugs, Di

Opps-AND-- Miss Gracie thinks it's her play time!!!!

WAY OVER DUE!!!!

2011-10-09T20:49:00.000-04:00

Keep your eyes on this blog site--

new things are coming here for you to enjoy--

in the mean time--

Hugs, Di

MY DREAM---

2011-04-06T21:12:00.000-04:00

Guess I need to write about my dream---

I used to want to travel all over the US --

on the back roads and just stop whenever---

but that I no longer seems to be on "top" of the pile of dreams!!!!!

My main dream --

is still and has been my dream for a long long long time ---

is to use this --

and then to take all kinds of photos--

like--

kids eating watermelons on the beach--

or--

or an older happy person still enjoying the good life--

of 'wild life' on the range--

or--

scenery pictures--

or--

Houses---

houses was my first love for photo worship even when I was in high school--

have always loved all the different features on houses--old ones and new ones--

though I have to say-- I think the old ones have much more interest than anything new I have seen!!!!!!

so I have been spending some time on the computer looking up camera's and equipment and workshops---and there is a ton of stuff out there--almost too many choices for this little pea brain of mine!!!! I really like simple and a couple good choices---so OK call me 'old fashioned' I don't mine!!!!

So there you have it---

one of my dreams for real life--

and when I grow up this is what I am going to do--

you just wait and see!!!!

Hugs, me

YOUR DREAM LIFE---

2011-02-23T21:08:00.000-05:00

What are your dreams--goals--desires???

If you where able to go some place on a vacation where would you go and why there????

If you where able to move someplace else than where you live now where would it be and why???

If you where able to buy something--what would it be and why???

Okay--now have some fun and answer these "dream" questions--
I really really want to know--
you can even email me if you don't want to leave the answers on the comment page--
and please be reasonable with your answers---

Hugs, Diane

BLACK AND WHITE COLORS---

2011-02-15T21:05:00.000-05:00

Two real basic colors are black and white--

Now I have never really cared for either color in clothes--
I never liked black on me--they say it is suppose to make you look "slimmer"--
well--I never thought sooooo!!! Actually I liked navy better and still do--to the tune of denim blue now that is---
and white--again not on me---white has always made me look "washed" out--
so have always wore off-white--that seems to make my 'cheeks' look more colorful!!!

Now when we come to decorating--
there is black and there is white!!!!
If you look at the country magazines--
you will see that black pieces of furniture are in now--
and to be really 'hip' you need to have a couple pieces of black in your home--
so remember when I got this piece???

Well lil sister insisted I have some black--
but guess what "blog friends"--
I do not like black furniture in my home---
yep--ain't that the bummmer!!!

Now white on the other hand I do like in my home--
I have decided--maybe I am seeing too much "white" on all the decorating channels here on the Internet--but--
NO--I like white curtains at the windows I have decided--
and I want to do the wicker chairs in white--
I also like brown wood furniture--so don't get too worried that I am going to get carried away here and turn everything I own into "white"---
I love color too!!!!
Now the funny thing is--as I am country in my decorating--
I really should be using off white or a beige color--
even for the curtains--
but I want to use white!!!!

Black or white--
which do you like and why????

Smiles--Diane

HORRIBLE OR A CHALLENGE????

2011-02-14T21:29:00.000-05:00

The one thing I have "learned" since I got soo sick and housebound is--
you can have one of two attitudes--
you can either "cry why me--this is sooo horrible"
or
you can decide it is a "challenge" to see just how "normal" you can live with all the things that are wrong with you--
and you can count to 100 before you "shot" someone for telling you for the 100th time that there is nothing "wrong" with you as you look just fine--even though at that point you are having all you can do to just stand up straight!!!!

Having the MCS is what has really changed my life the most--
You have to take control and learn about everything in your life--
and I mean everything--
everything you wear--
everything you eat--yes--even that counts--
everything you use to wash or do housework with--
everywhere you go--
everything you do is now different--
You learn that what some people think of as the "healthiest" places to be --
are in fact the worse--they are really down right hazardous to our health--
You become aware of everything that you use and you have to question everything you touch---
because--everything you touch can be absorbed into your body!!!
Try holding some thing strong smelling like cinnamon in your hand for 5 minutes--
and see if you don't "taste" it in your mouth--wow!!!
we have sooo many "chemicals" in our lives now that we use normally every single day and just don't stop to think about it all--

like take cake mixes--
easy to make--
but to me--baking that in an oven can make me "sick"--
the Chemicals in the mix to keep it safe on the shelf--are toxic when cooked and breathed--go figure!!!!
I once had a nurse tell me 'How horrible for you"--
that was the day I looked at her and said--
No it is not "horrible" but it is a challenge!!!!
I am better for having this MCS and there are many things I would not use ever again--
even if by some "miracle" I got well tomorrow and could go anywhere or once again do anything I wanted!!!

Having MCS is alot like having a handicapped child--but you are the child--
and you often are felt to feel like a child or that you are totally "stupid" or what ever--
when traveling you must take your own bedding and you have to ask the hotel/motel whatever not to use any chemicals when cleaning your room other than baking soda and vinegar--and no smelly stuff afterwards!!!!

You can't ride in brand new cars--the new smell that everybody is so crazy about--
it chemicals--dangerous to your health and mine--even A/C's in cars are bad--
they are putting out chemicals in the car---so no new cars!!!!
Vinyl --who knew that vinyl is so dangerous-- I won't have it in my house--ever!!!
vinyl is pure chemicals and it never==never gets over gassing it self out--it will always give off a "gas"---so restaurants that have vinyl table cloths are out!!!!
If a place has been newly painted-carpeted-etc--I can not go into it--so no new apartment building for me--darn!!!!

the list goes on and on--
but like I said--it can be a "fun" game if one will look at it and the fact that even though I can not do alot of things and eat alot of things--
I am healthier for it---good for me!!!!!
silly Di

AM I HEALTHY--OR NOT?????

2011-02-10T20:28:00.000-05:00

As I stated yesterday--
when one looks at me most days--
it is hard to tell that I have so many health issues--!!
and believe it or not for all those illness I only take 2 prescriptions per month--
plus a monthly B-12 injection!!! so I am lucky there--I guess!!!
there is no medicines for the most part for the illness that attack my body!!!

Chronic Fatigue--you may know about--
I need more sleep than most people--10 or more hours--
and even after that many--I often get up exhausted--
and I have to take a nap in the late afternoon--
I can remember when I thought that people who took naps where just plain lazy--
now I know differently--some times your body demands things from you whether you want to do them or not--you do them!!!!

Fibromyalgia most people do know about now--
it is a muscle disease-- and I call it my "traveling disease" as you never know from one day to the next what part or parts of your body will hurt and ache--it all depends on how you slept or what you did the day before mostly--but you are usually in a continual state of discomfort--you can't sit long--ride long--lay in one spot long--on and on--but you adjust somehow--you have toooo!!!

Now this illness "MCS" is totally misunderstood and most people do not believe in it--they think it is only in ones "head"--but more and more people are getting this and have this and have no idea what it is they have---
I was lucky that when I got so sick the winter of 1999--there where people in place in my life that knew about it and could help me!!
Basically I am "sensitive" to everything around me--all chemically based products--
and that is everything we use, bathe with, launder with, on and on the list goes!!!
I should not be on a computer even--but you gotta live somehow!!!!
the heat from the computer heats the wires and components inside and they put out a toxic chemical--I often have to have a fan on next to the computer blowing the fumes away from me!! Gasoline products are horrible for me---people often have to let me out before they can pump the gas and come back and pick me up--
I have trouble with some people coming to visit because they have sooo much perfumed items on their bodies and in their clothes---some stores I have to turn around and walk right back out of them if they have alot of perfumed items in there--
and the toy section with all those plastic toys and rubber items are terrible--
I really could go and on here about the things I have reactions too--but I know you are already bored--sooooo
But I do do things--I just have tooooo!!!
I did get some better 7 years ago when I was in New Jersey visiting a friend--she lived about 10 miles from the beach--and that is really where I need to live--either way out in the mountains--or near the ocean--any body got a place for rent at either of these areas??????

This is enough of an education for tonight--
I am totally bored now!!!!!

I FORGOT--

2011-02-09T20:00:00.000-05:00

I also am a "sister"--

in fact the oldest one in the family--

I have two younger sisters and--

a "baby" brother!!!

there is 3 years between each of us girls--

and 12 years between me and my brother!!!

I was the one who keep us going at the holidays--

always making us all get together as a "family" --

even when our parents spent 16 winters in Florida--

Now--nobody wants that anymore and we live too far away--

Oh how I miss having "close" family--and I don't just mean in miles here!!!

I have also been a Senior Citizen since the age of 57--

when I moved in here--which is a Senior Housing project--

and you need to be 62 yrs of age --or disabled--and that is where I have fit in!!

so I have gotten really "old" before my time--

alot of the others here are 73-93 years young--

and they are happy to just sit--literally sit all day--

they either gossip--or watch TV--

I do not do either--

I have always been one who has to be busy every minute--

whether I feel well or not--

so it is very hard for me see these poor souls wasting away!!!

But you can't get them to change or to do a thing!!!!

I guess now I should start talking about my Health issues--

as these will "play" a big part in my future--as they have for the last 12 years--

(actually alot longer than that--but I was unaware of it!!!)

I have--no I don't have--

my body has this issues!!!

1. Chronic fatigue

2. MCS--multiple chemical sensitivity

3. Fibromyalgia

4. high blood pressure

5. prenicious anemia

6. not counting any more!!!!!

these 5 are enough to list--the others are minor or come with old age!!!!

But these 5 things make me often be someone I don't to be--lazy!!!!

and a shut--in a lot--

and that is why I am always sewing and quilting--

it keeps my mind off the hurts and pain and the knowing that I often--

can not do what other people can do--

yet if you looked at me--you can not see any of these disabilities!!!

and that is really the hard part--

cause everyone things you are "crazy" or you are making things up!!!

Hugs, Diane

WHO I HAVE BEEN--

2011-02-08T20:32:00.000-05:00

We all have different "roles" to preform as our lives grow and journey onward--
some of those "roles" last our life time--
others come and go--often without our "ok"!!!

First I was a "daughter" for 19 years--
and I was taught to "obey and respect" my parents --
whether they were right or wrong--
my dad did not believe in women getting any education beyond high school--
a woman's place was in the home--period--her husband did the job and brought home the pay check--period!!!

Second I was a "wife" and then a "mother" myself--
and did just as daddy said--I stayed home--
the only thing I really did during this time was to get my driver's license--finally!!!

But what happens after 7 years and your Husband doesn't want to be married any more!!
How does one raises the kids and brings home the pay check???
with no training or career goals!!!!

So Third I am a single mother---
a single working mother -- when work can be found!!!
and I play this part for years until my son is ready to move out of the house--

then you think that the Fourth step is "empty nest"--Nope--
Fourth I go right into adult parent care--
first my Mom has cancer and while she is battling that--
just one year later on the same day--
we learn my father has cancer--
so I now care for two ill parents--
Mom passes on to Glory land--
My lil sister comes to care for my Dad a year or two later as in the mean time--

job Five comes along--
shop owner and keeper--
I not only had a shop to keep up with--
but I made all my own inventory (95%)--
But at the end of five years--
my Dad has also passed on to Glory land--

and my Sixth job enters the picture!!!
and from then til now--12 years--
I have My Health leading me--
telling me what to do and when I can do something--
and what I can't do --even on good days!!!!

So you see why I know say--Who am I????
this is the first time in my life that I have felt--
free enough--brave enough--strong enough--
and have some money's to maybe do something--
but the BIG question is "what"?????

some of my thoughts for today--Feb 8th

THIS IS A NEW "JOURNEY"

2011-02-06T22:06:00.000-05:00

I am going to spend some time this month--
February--
or how ever long it takes to go on a little journey!!!

that is of "finding the real 'me'"!!!!

I believe sometimes that everything going on around us--
at such a fast rate of speed that it--
can change us--when we aren't even looking--
and then one day you wake up--
and you realize that--
you are lost--
at least the "real" you is lost!!

but then -- does this real you exist anymore???
would you like that "person" back????
or is there another "you" that is there--
just waiting to be discovered and then worked with--
to make "you" the very best "you" for where your life is now????

So if any one want to join me you can--
or if you just want to follow along with me on my journey--
hang on to your seat---
Hugs, Diane--
that's the first thing--
my name---
my real name is Diane--
not Di--I started using Di cause I was so new to blogging and was worried about "the world" knowing who I was--so used Di and it is less letters to type!!!!!

ADD ANOTHER FINISH---

2011-01-28T21:15:00.000-05:00

Here's the 30's quilt in all her glory--

took 3-4 years in the making--but she's done!!!!
Love it--

Hugs, di

ADD ANOTHER FINISH--

2011-01-25T21:17:00.000-05:00

I am so excited--

I got another finish--

and not just one--but two of them!!!

remember this --

and this--

Well--I can now cross off two more finishes--

cause this is what they look like now----

Yes---I am sooo happy and they are all mine and they are all done--

Hugs,Di

Knitting unfinished projects does count doesn't it???

OH---SOOO MANY 2011 BOM'S--

2011-01-18T20:14:00.000-05:00

How can one decide which one to do--

Or should I say which one's to do---

a 12 month embroidery Heart blocks

Cute embroidery one --

Henrietta whiskers--applique blocks

applique boot one--

another applique one--

Embroidery one--

a embroidery one--

this one is embroidery with emblishments--

another all hearts one in embroidery --

And on thegoldenthimble.com site--

she has a run down of most of these and a lot more--

this one is paper piecing I believe!!

and if you go to the bottom of the bom page she has her own--

at least I think is her's--an applique one that is row by row!!

There is sooo many out there more yet --and they are all great ones--

want to do them all--

but I also need alittle time to do --

and a few other '"necessary" things in life!!!!

Which ones are you doing?????

Hugs, Di

ONE MORE IN THE FINISH PILE!!!

2011-01-06T22:12:00.000-05:00

Got this one finished today--

a redwork sampler--all done--

Here is the back--I did not sew the opening closed yet--
as I am not sure if I want this to be a wall hanging or a Christmas pillow--
that answer will be answered next Christmas!!!!

Hugs, Di

DON'T LOOK--BUT---

2011-01-05T20:29:00.000-05:00

I did forget to list the projects that are leftovers from this year--
but guess what--
some got done today--

First I got this dish towel finished--

this years free Bird Brain pattern--
Then this got finished today--

this holds candy--and is soo easy to make--
I had gotten the stitchery done a while back--
Then got this one done--
did the top part in 2009--
then worked on it this Dec 2010--
but still did not get it finished until today--

the Christmas card holder!!!

I still have one more Christmas project in progress--it is 3/4 done as for the stitchery part--not sure how I am going to finish it yet???

So this makes 3 finishes of some projects in process done for 2011--
yes!!!
Hugs, Di

OPPPPS--I FOUND SOME MORE!!!

2010-12-31T20:22:00.000-05:00

Can you believe that I remembered a couple more--

first was the siggy swap I was in last year--

second was the "I spy" swap I was in last year--

third is some rows of applique hearts that I started--

Sooo there you have it--three more--
and who knows if I will remember any more--
at least now though I have a visual of what projects I have that may need some finishing or to be put into other projects and now I can just look on here to see where to go with them--good for me!!!!!

Over and out--
Di and the "princess" gracie

UFO'S AND MORE UFO'S-----

2010-12-30T16:40:00.005-05:00

Well--at the close of 2010--

I did an "inventory" of my "uncompleted" projects--

and I have scared myself "silly"!!!!!

I was even "surprised" by how many ufo's I have--

so needless to say--

I will be very busy this next year--

just doing them!!!!

I am listing them all here--

First--some real "oldies"

#01--Class project at Quilt shop--2009
Dresden Plate--Frogs

#02 Class project at the shop 2009
Hand piecing==Hexagons

#03 just something I wanted to make--
Crabapple Hill pattern

#04 another project of mine that I started--
Baskets of posies--

#05 another project from the shop--this has been started for the hand quilting--am wanting to finish it--this might be from 2008??? 30's blocks

#06 and we know this is an old one--more like 2005 that I got the pattern--

have done some work on it over the years--but this year seen me sewing the blocks together???
this 1930's quilt is all hand quilted and the binding is on it!!!
This one finished--Jan. 2011

Homespun birdies

#07 got this kit last year --even got lots of fabric to do them--

but have changed my mind--but still want to make it!!

Crosses

#08 I started this one long before it was all over the Internet--

and have worked on it now off and on for 2 years--but??? A Gardner's Journal

#09--this is a Sunbonnet Sue from 2008--I am sure--all the blocks are done--

just waiting to be put together---

#10 this was one I was getting in the mail--probably in 2008-9--have it half done and the rest of the blocks are all prepped--Orchids

#11--again this is another one from a monthly mailing--only have one block done--

can't decide if I want to continue it in the yellow/blue or go with different colors?? Birds

#12--this was a bom at the quilt shop in 2008-- I have some of the blocks done--but there is alot yet to do on this one--Select Six

#13--and as you can see--I have also started this on in 30's prints??? 2nd Select Six

**********************

From the Internet--

Bom's--2009

#14--Stringybark Farm--by missy mack

I love doing these and coloring them in with pencils--have 2-3 more blocks prepped--but missy mack has also not finished this series--from 2009

#15 Probably one of the first ones I did on the internet--Verandah Views

just love these--and they are all done??

#16 another one from last year--2009--

Shabby Roses by Jenny--

have 3 more blocks to do--I believe??

#17 from the Internet--there was alot of birdhouses in this one-- and I have done alot of them--so not sure where I am in this one--Sindy's Birdhouses

#18 another from Internet--I think I was not able to get the last one or two--

and I have 1-2 yet to do that I have the patterns for--cute!!Friendship Garden

#19--from Tozz's corner--all these blocks are done--just awaitin?? From the Heart

**********************

this years--2010--Ufo's

#20 Snowbound--think I have 2-3 more blocks to do--

#21--another one of Tozz's--but these blocks are also done!! Flirting with Flowers

#22 this is from Alice and Joy--all the blocks are done--

Fruits of the Spirit

#23 this one is from Val's--and all these blocks are done?? Gifts of Grace

#24 -and this is the Sentimental Journey series from Michelle May and I still have the last one to do--you finished these as you went along--soooo

this one is all done now=Jan 2011

#25 and don't forget the "cat" of the year--Brutus--think I need to do one more of these--

#26 This is called "Vicksburg"--think there is 10-12 blocks to this one--

me has "2" done!!!

#27 this is the block everyother Monday on jelly roll by Moose club--Rural Jardin

#28 and this one is the snowball quilt using

the '12 days of Christmas' line

in the layer cakes I won--

#29 and this one I paid for for a 6 months pattern--

have gotten one done--can't wait to do more!!

The American Schoolgirl Club

#30---I have at least---20 tops all put together and they now need to hand quilted or something!!!!!

*************************

AND--I still want/need to do these--

==still have not had time to play with the 60 degree ruler--

++++

and some regular "hexagon's"---I want to make some flower hexie's like everybody is!!!!

++++

PLUS lots of patterns for all kinds of things--

PLUS I did not list any of my "wool" projects I want to do and have the patterns for--

+++++++

and lots of my own ideas that I want to work up----!!!!

+++++

EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEKKKKKK!!!!!!

I think this has really tired me out--think it is "nap" time--

see ya in a while--

Hugs, Di and miss gracie(who is way ahead of me on the nap!!!!)

PS--no nap today---ouch!!!

HOPPING RIGHT ALONG HERE!!!

2010-08-10T21:27:00.000-04:00

Wow----I just realized that I have been just a "hoppin" on all my quilt projects so far for this month!!!!

It is only the 10th of the month toooo!!!!

So far I have the following done---

In bom's--

Sentimental Journey is all done--

Our Cat bom is done--ain't he cute!?????

Snowbound for this month is done---

the 2009 Shabby rose block is done --

Schnibbles--

I chose --Short Story--top is all done--

and I got the top all sewed for the jelly roll challenge that I also did with a honey bun and made the blocks half the size--these are 6 inch finished blocks--so one top out of the three is sewed together!!!!

AND--

I adopted--

a seven year old kitty--Cameo

So I have been busy---

Hugs, Di

JULY'S FINISHES FOR FALL CHALLENGE!!!!

2010-07-31T23:35:00.002-04:00

Hello--Friends--

I do believe that everyone was "alittle" shocked that I did a Fall Challenge so early!!!!

BUT---

I do believe we will be real glad we are working on these projects now--

BECAUSE---

everywhere I look and read on the blog sites--everyone is--

talking about--

CHRISTMAS---Christmas challenges are everywhere---BUT--

Fall--

Does come first --dear bloggers---

So to those of us who are working on finishes--

Here is some for July--

I chose a felt project--as I had missed doing felt projects--so it gave me a felt one and a fall one--two "joys" for the price of one!!!!

Here is Alice's---

How pretty--this was a UFO from last year or so---and now she has a finished pretty to use---thanks Alice --

Joy's finish--

I believe this was another UFO--I love that "wheat" fabric--thanks Alice!!

Lola is next--

And here is the back --

Great stitching--thanks Lola--

then we have Fiesta--

This is called--Harvest Blessings--and was another UFO--now finished and ready to enjoy -- soooooon!!!! thanks Fiesta!!

And I know Faye has a finish--but has no blog and has been able to send me a photo--but will add it as soon as I get it!!! Thanks Faye---

DID I MISS ANYONE??????

Prizes soon----

Hugs, Di

FALL SEW IN TIME---

2010-06-22T21:23:00.000-04:00

OK--- here's the "Plan"---

JULY--make a fall table mat--candle mat--

or--finish a UFO that is Fall

AUGUST--make a fall table runner, place mats, table cloth--

or --finish UFO that is Fall

SEPTEMBER--make a fall wall hanging--door hanging --or small quilt

or --finish UFO that is Fall

SIMPLE---I have tried to keep it really simple and to "one" project a month--yet keep the projects a little different--this way you can have a variety of things to decorate with when Fall gets here!!!!!!

---So just sign up here if you would like to join me--I pretty much know what projects I am doing for the three months---

I will do a drawing at the end of each month with those who post what they made for Fall within that month--or finished---so if you can not do all three months--just join in with the months you can ---

Rules--

1. post what project you plan to do by the 3rd of each month and let me know--

2.then post the finish by the last day of the month and let me know for the drawing--

3.and you need to be signed up by July 3rd to be in the "fall gang"!!!!!!

SIMPLE SIMPLE SIMPLE--

right--or do you see a problem here--(besides the time to add a Fall item to your already busy schedule!!!!!!??????)

Hugs, Di

OH MY------

2010-05-20T23:11:00.000-04:00

WHAT DID YOU ASK????

What do you mean--it's been a "whole' month since I posted????

You must be wrong!!!!

I know I am on here every night "posting"---

OH---forgot--I need to post on THIS site once in while too--sorry!!!

SO what am I going to post about?????????

Let's see---

I still need to finish quilting this Schnibbles quilt--

This is from April---then April's projects are all caught up --me hopes!!!

I still need to do for May--

Bom;s for gifts of grace, fruits of the spirit, flirting with flowers

and hand quilt the next row for the Round Robin--but on Monday another row will be on the internet along with another block for the Jelly roll challenge

AND--I have not even thought about which Schnibbles I want to do for this month--bad girl!!!

Soooooo----I need to get busy-------------

Let's talk about some of my favorite "things" for quilting---

One of them is these scissors---I just love them for my thread and embroidery threads--they are right beside me at my rocker at all times--they have serrated blades and are perfect for applique work too!!!

WORKING HARD ON BOM'S

2010-04-20T19:03:00.000-04:00

Here I am finally prepping some of the bom's for April--can not believe it is the 20th of the month and I have only gotten a couple done--that means I have only 10 days left to finish all my bom's--finish hand quilting the Schnibbles--Feb--Sunday Best--hand
quilt this month's and do rest of the OPAM and CG&GC challenges--

AH--does this mean I can't sleep for the next 10 days?????????

AH--no it probably means that I will not be getting all my goals done this month!!!!

One bom done

Two done--

And three done--
I still have Bouquet block, Snowbound block, gifts of Spirit block, FFFreebie block, yet in bom's to do--and--and--

OH Well---there is always ---always--
Hugs, Di

ANN'S YARD SALE QUILT

2010-04-13T21:50:00.000-04:00

Like I said over on Quiltingisblissful site--Ann picked this quilt top up at a yard sale--and she is now hand quilting it--the top all came in one piece--and has been hand pieced--Ann did add the black pin dot border as she likes her quilts large--

Now here is the "funny" parts--you know we all have to do the quilter's 1/4 inch--and we have to measure each piece to just the right measurement--and even if we goof we will redo it--even if we have to run back to the quilt shop and get more fabric--plus all colors have to match--on and on we go!!!

Look here---here is a piece that the quilter added to a piece cause it was not wide enough---

Here she was short--so she added a tiny bit more to the piece (red one)

Here on the solid green block--she is too wide--so she just took a "tuck" in the fabric to make it fit---

Here she again added a small piece to the stripe piece and used two different checks to the one strip to make it long enough--

this was mainly her pattern block--the two outside ones were to match--then the next two --with one different down the center of the five blocks--and this is like a rail fence quilt style--

Here is a look at the outer border that she added--Ann thinks this was added at a later date that the rest of the quilt--and we know that alot of the fabrics used in the quilt was from clothing they had worn first--

Ann is quilting this one in the "ditch" as soooo many of the blocks are a different size--yet it is amazing how it all comes out correctly in the end!!!

The End---
Hugs, Di

Di's Way to Quilt as you go!!!

2010-04-12T19:03:00.000-04:00

Here is the main piece that I already had sewed together before I realized how large this quilt was gonna turn out---as I only hand quilt, and already have some large ones wanting to be quilted--I decided I had better do this one--as I went--so first I hand quilted the first three parts that we had gotten and finished--I made the "sandwich" for this just like I do my smaller quilts--then hand quilted it---I always leave about 1-2 on each edge of the batting and backing until I have it all quilted. Then I did the sandwich for the flower vine panels and quilted them.

Here you see the "extra" batting and backing--Now you need to trim this extra off--even with the top panels

Next you fold back the battings and backing on both pieces that you want to sew together--you can pin them back--then you sew the two pieces at your normal 1/4 inch seam allowance==being "careful" not to sew in the batting or backings. I had hand quilted a little tooo close on the center panel to the out side edge--but by taking my time I was able to sew these two seams together.

Then turn it over and press your seam flat--

You will probably have to trim the batting another 1/4" on one side piece only--once this is trimmed you will see that the two battings will lay flat and meet on the seam you just stitched.--Be very careful when you are cutting this batting--not to catch any front or back fabric in the cutting--so take your time--please.

Then you will--still working on the back of the quilt--take the backing fabric and fold it under the 1/4 inch and press--
This should come over top of the other piece of backing to cover that edge.

See how it looks here---then you will hand stitch this seam down--like a hem stitch that you use on stitching down the binding--

and then when you turn your quilt around to the front--Presto--it is all together in one nice piece and it is even quilted and now we are ready for the next rows --another row for the top and bottom!!!!!

Have fun--I really like to do hand quilt my larger blocks as I go--then it is fun to just sew them all together add the binding and you are done!

If YOU HAVE any questions or problems--please let me know--again --this is how I do them--may not be how others do theirs!!!

Have fun
Hugs, Di

GARDENER'S JOURNAL--

2010-04-06T21:15:00.000-04:00

Here is more photos of the finished Gardener's Journal blocks that are all done---

this is where I am going to live, work, garden, and raise my kitty and puppy some day!!!! and everyone can come and visit--I am sure there will be some kind of work for you to do to earn your "eats" and if you are very good--I might even share some of my "dark chocolate" with you--but I mean you have to be really really really good for that to happen!!!!!

Hugs to all---and may you all have a wonderful day!!!

WHERE TO START?????

2010-04-05T21:53:00.000-04:00

Guess I will start with April's goals---

1. goal--to do all bom's

2. Do jelly roll blocks 2x this month

3. Do round robin blocks--2x this month

4. Do Schnibbles--Tagalongs for April

5. OPAM goals for April--

1st goal is to hand quilt --Sunday Best--Schnibbles for February

2nd to make it a pillow --

3rd is to do my Tilda project for the month--plan to make some birds this time!!!

CHARMING GUYS AND GIRLS CLUB--goals for April--

1st--make the next three Patch Abilities--summer set

2nd to finish a hand piecing class I attended last year--got all the blocks done==just need to put them together now--

3rd--make up my "New-new" quilt design using the Verna fabric line---

OKAY--another story--sorta--

Do any of you recognize this this quilt??????

It has to do with the "Elephant" story???

Well--It was just "cryin" yesterday--it was sooo tired of being in that quilt rack and me neglecting it--and it being Easter Sunday, I decided to rescue it---and I took it out!!!

It was sooo Happy---it had been in that rack for 13 months---and only 3 blocks got hand quilted in all that time---yesterday--I got "two" blocks more done!!!!!

Mail--Call---

Order came today from the Fatquarter shop with the Schnibbles pattern I needed of the Tagalong--and you know "Di" she had to buy some fabric--and I did get some much needed machine thread!!! this is for my friend Ann tomorrow for her baby quilts she makes and donates---I just love it--sorta hate to part with it!!!!!!

and I just got a couple yard cuts of blues--actually the one is white with snowflakes--thought it had blue snowflakes on it--but!!!! The top blue one is a Verna fabric--the next one I thought that the blue paisley would be good for fussing cutting hexagons---in " which ever" year I get some time to do them??--the bottom blue is just a pretty blue for the stash!!!

Hi Joy--got these two panels all done and hand quilted for the Round Robin challenge--and my friend Joy designed this set--I just love them--even Little sister liked them!!!!! I have decided to do the hand quilting as I go on this one as I think it is going to be quite large when done--today I got the larger part that we have already done--all basted to quilt--so we are moving right along--here!!!!

I realize that my "boat" is probably over loaded by now--but I just had to get out my Gardener's Journal blocks and work on them again--several of you are doing these blocks now and I had started them last winter my self--then they got "lost" in the crowd of so many other "projects"--but they have been found and one more is all stitched!!

I will show the others tomorrow--and I have more that are all traced out and just waiting------------

I have one baby hat done so far this month and got more blue yarn today and started one in that--And I got 3 of the bom's traced out to stitch---

WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN DOING???????

Besides "eating" all the kids Easter candy!!!!!

BACK TO WORK----

2010-04-04T23:02:00.000-04:00

Are the "holidays" all over for awhile??????

Time for some serious stitching---

***** UNLESS--- you are planning a vacation

*****AND -- maybe a move to another state

********THEN--other things just "might" get in the way of all those planned projects and challenges and contests---

BUT----

**** A girl has to do what a girl has got to do?????

So what are your plans for April??????

****sewing

*****gardening

*****redecorating a room or the house

******????????

Hugs, Di

MY OWN DESIGN--AGAIN!!!

2010-03-31T20:43:00.000-04:00

I did get the 3 piece set of the spring Patchables all done---yes!!! even add a cat button!!!

And I got my new design all done in the Whimsy line that I won from Kelly this month--

I named it Kelly's Honey of a Charm!!!

And I have entered Mary's Sunny Bunny Quilt in an Easter Quilt contest for this week end!!!!! At fat Quarter shop--so be sure to hop over there and Vote!!!

Thanks

Hugs, Di

FUN TIME ---

2010-03-22T21:46:00.000-04:00

I had a fun sort of day today--I actually was able to work on two projects that were not on my "to-do" list--both came out as pillows and both are different -- but it seems I put down soo much on my challenges lists and all the BOM's that I get myself into--that they take right up til the last day of the month and there has been no time to just sorta play with what ever comes up!!!!

I really like them both--both are "me"!!!!

Well--I have caught up reading some blog sites --update all my sites--so I am going to go to the rocking chair and go back to hand quilting on the Roundabout!!!!

Oh you needed one of these today here--Rain Rain Rain!!!

Hugs, Di

BOM'S ARE DONE!!!!

2010-03-18T18:45:00.000-04:00

I do believe that I am all caught up with this month's bom's--just finished March's Snowbound block this afternoon!!! These are such cute "chilling" blocks to make!!!

At least this summer we will keep "cool" the days we stitch on them!!!!!

I do -- sorta have -- one more to do--if anyone is counting!!!!

This month's gifts of Grace---I just got the first one done and posted and she just gave us #2 a couple days ago--so I really do have a month to finish it---but being the "good" girl that I am--it is traced and ready to stitch--but I want to finish some Easter things first!!!

How are your Easter projects and decorating coming along?????

HUGS---DI

I WON---AGAIN!!!

2010-03-08T21:22:00.000-05:00

I can not believe it---but I have won something else again---
I just showed my block over on quiltingisblissful site of this months bom for
SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY--

Then I was reading my blog friends--and discovered when I visited Shell's site--
Tales From the Raspberry Rabbits--
that I won this--

And the whole "kit" to make it---Now is that "YUMMY' or what????
thanks Shell!!!

It is really "odd"--I can not tell you how many drawings I have entered since I started my blog site---lots and lots---and I only won something right in the beginning--a lovely heart shaped tea cup and saucer----
that was it until late this fall--and now I am on a roll--I guess---and I am loving every "winnings"---so let's keep right on rolling!!!!

Oh--you say it's your turn!!!
And you are probably right---but in the meantime---yah--for me!!!!

Hugs, Di

BOOK REPORT TIME--

2010-03-04T21:55:00.000-05:00

I actually got another book read last night--

This was a little different than most of Sandra's book -- it was a good read and I really enjoyed it--next time you get to the Library--check it out!!!

Happy reading--
Hugs, Di

GOALS FOR MARCH--

2010-03-01T19:43:00.000-05:00

Can you believe it is another new month already!!!!
I just got February's all done--when does a quilter get a break--you know a couple days of just doing nothing--just "putterin" around in the sewing room????

Ok Di--quit moanin and groanin--and let's get on with the program!!!!

GOALS for OPAM-
1. from Tilda book--sew some geese--

2.From the Tilda book--make some fabric eggs--

And for the Charming Girls and Guys Club--
1. FINISH and quilt my Spring sew in quilt--

2. And I need to do the next "3" of my Patches pattern--Spring set--

AND--
then we have all the Block of the Months to do and some new ones I have joined--like--

This started today--like the first block--(no it is not stitched yet!!!)
this has a new block every 1st and 3rd Mondays--

Then this is a cute one and is your own--don't send it out--you get a pattern for it
2nd and 4th Mondays--SO--you know where you have to be on Mondays!!!!

And I am going to be doing this one--it is on the simplier side--some applique and some embroidery--I just have not decided on my back ground fabric yet!!!! (we know Di that sounds as good as an excuse as you can get!!!!)

But the best part of March--even with all the "juggling" of our projects is the fact that --

We can do the Easter Dance--as Easter also spells--Spring!!!!

Hugs, Di

I DID IT---

2010-02-26T19:59:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it --- but I did do all my quilt/sewing goals for this month---How cool is that???/

The two Tilda Lambs are made--here is "Mary" and "Larry"!!! and oh what fun we had making them???? I will buy better grade of terry towels the next time(if there is a next time!!!) I wished you had been here yesterday when I was sewing the bodies--first--I actually used an ear piece for the face piece--Ah--guess what --that make them look like a chicken (beak) then I sewed one side of the face up side down--that does not work either!!! finally got them both on and later was stuffing them--and the one tore out on me at the face line--so back to the sewing room they both went and they were "operated" on once again---success this time--yes!!!!

Then after I got them finished today--I still had 5 tisket blocks to bind and add trims--so---

they did get done and here is all "12" of my blocks all ready to go on my door each month--this was another real fun bom for 2009 that is FINISHED---

You want to hear something else that is funny????
I did not realize what OPAM actually meant??? I know we can all get excited sometimes---but in reading someone elses blog I realized it meant---
One Project A Month---
Not the 3-4 I have been listing to do!!!!!
But I also know that I have gotten things done that would of not gotten done had I not listed them--believe me---I would of put 3 things "off" till next month--or the next month!!!!

SO Di -- you have two more days till the end of the month and all your projects and bom's are done--what ever are you going to do with your self??????

Have no fear---Tomorrow --Little sister and I are doing the Spring sew in---see ya there!!!

GOOD NIGHT--SWEET DREAMS
HUGS, DI

YES---

2010-02-24T19:37:00.000-05:00

I think someone "let" the bunnies out----

and now they are hopping everywhere!!!!!
but at least ONE more project on the "TO DO' list is alllllll done!!!!!!!!

Now I just have one more ---project on each of the challenge lists--so that equals==
two more projects to do--
1. finish the 5 Tisket/Tasket blocks
2. make some lambs from the Tilda book
And two more days to do it all in----Maybe---just Maybe!!!!

And this is what they are saying we are to get tomorrow!!!!

WORKING---

2010-02-23T19:56:00.000-05:00

I am working right along---did get one more project totally done and a another one started---

Remember this stool cover I made last summer--

Now my new "Mixer" cover matches it and they are right near each other so it looks cute and the Mixer cover was on my OPAM challenge list for February--so I am one step closer to meeting that goal!!!

And I worked on this "pile" of 3 1/2" squares today and this is part of another challenge--maybe tomorrow it will be a finish===have to tune in to see!!!!

See ya tomorrow--
Hugs, Di

PUZZLE TIME!!!

2010-02-18T20:54:00.000-05:00

I had to work out a "puzzle" on this month's Schnibbles----I read the directions and started cutting out the print blocks---only I could not get the "second" set of 1 3/4" by 1 3/4" blocks out---we cut 2 strips for the border and 2 3" squares--so I am "thinking'(here was really the problem--me thinking!!!!) that we where making 2 blocks out of the same fabric print---Little sister shows up--so I show it to her and we try one and again --can not get the second smaller set--so I get on the computer and am in the process of emailing someone who has already done the top--when little sister says--I found the answer here on the back of it---you are only making ONE block so you only need one set of the small squares---Guess what---that made a LOT of sense to me--in the end----

Then I am actually on the last block and am nearly done---WHEN---I find the one block that I thought I had put in the trash bin==because of this--

See the "flaw" in the fabric---ouch---BUT I was a good girl and I did redo this one corner block--

See NO flaw----

Block looks much much better now---

And here is the finished top part---now to decide what I want to do with the borders???
Can anyone tell me the name of the charm packs I used---might be a "surprise" in it if you guess right!!!!

The birthday party over on my other site is still in full "swing" so swing over and have a piece of cake and sign in for the drawings!!!
quiltingisblissful.blogspot.com

See ya there Hugs, Di

IT'S WEDNESDAY---again!!!

2010-02-17T20:36:00.000-05:00

I did get something done today that I was "suppose" to do about 2 weeks ago--or more---I needed to get a package out--actually a couple packages in the mail--so that was this mornings "job" when I got back from friend Mary's place---and here is a couple pictures to share of that adventure!!!!

My dinning room table--the work table--for everything--

and the dresser where I keep all my package supplies--do notice that not one drawer---but "three" drawers are open??????

But I did get two packages in the mail today---hurray for me!!!!

As for work today --- I did ----

get this Tisket/Tasket block all hand quilted--it was block #2--and the center was done--I just needed to finish it as I have, the other's into a small door hanging!!!

And I got the November block all appliqued today--now I need to find it a border!!!

I still have 2 that are ready for hand quilting---this top for a border and then to quilt, and one more August block to applique and then finish????

It is going to be a "tight" race against time to see if I can get all of my Challenges, and the "to finish list" done by the end of February---I may have "bitten" off a little too much this time---it's really the months fault---it is too short--!!!!

Quilting is Blissful is having a Birthday party today---SO be sure to pop in over there---MY first blog site was the Blissful site--on Feb, 18th 2009 and this one I started on March 9th 2009---lots of great times on both sites!!!!

Hugs, Di
PS I do have all of the bom's done for this month--so that counts for something---but then I did find a couple more bom's I would like to do??????? Crazy!!!!!

BOOK REPORT--

2010-02-15T20:27:00.000-05:00

Last night I finished another book--Hey--this makes 6 so far this year--that's one a week--down from "before blogging days" of 3 a week!!!!!
But I am happy with the one a week ---

Here is the one I stayed up real late last night and finished reading!!!

If you like mice---and--

Owls it is a great book---

I really did enjoy the "learning" part about animals and the adventures of Wesley--but some of the "mice" parts were alittle"????" !!!!!
But over all it was a really interesting book--and I did learn some things--Like who would of thought of mice as "clean" and that they actually bathe themselves a lot like cats do??????

Hugs, and Happy Presidents day---Di

Don't look now!!!!

2010-02-13T20:05:00.000-05:00

Do not look at the pictures on the side bar!!!!!

I see you looking!!!!!!

Yep!!!! Another BOM---crazy ole Di????

This one is called Catalicious---and with a name like that--alone---how could Di not do it----PLUS---it is by Bronwyn Hayes and I just love her work---SO---I am In!!!!

Be sure to check it out!!!!

Hugs, Di

BOM FOR FEBRUARY NEARLY DONE---

2010-02-11T21:29:00.000-05:00

Well I can't believe it --but all but one "new" bom blocks are all finished for me---and the pictures are posted!!!! I am working hard on the last one--it is all embroidery by Browne Hayes will put up the picture as soon as it is done----
NOW---
If I just had my Schnibbles done--haven't even started it yet!!!! and my OPAM challenges done and the Charming Girl challenges done and some of the String challenge done-----
BUT---
then I would be "bored" right???????

I did get some creative juices flowing today on one of the finishes I need to do--was at a stand still on it for awhile?????

So are you working on something "special" for one of your loved ones for Valentines Day????????

Hugs, Di

OKAY!!!!!

2010-02-10T21:18:00.000-05:00

I love kitty cats and all my blogging friends---

and as I asked for your "help" in making a decision and you all "voted" yes--I have decided to do it-----

I am joining the Jelly roll quilt along---starts March 1st---(and let this little "birdie" tell you something--if you want to join me and need a jelly roll--Kelly at Cotton Charms has some on sale!!!!)
I have not decided just which one I will get yet--but have my "eye"on a couple possibles----ON the site today is the list of designers for the quilt--go take a look ---click on side bar to get there!!!!

By the end of March I may very well be saying this----

Hugs, Di

AM I GOING TO DO THIS?????

2010-02-08T21:37:00.000-05:00

Guess what I found on one of the blog sites----

Another twice a month--build a block using a jelly roll (or some fabric from your stash)--

Oh Dear---do I or don't I?????

She is having different designers do each block--so they will all be different--it doesn't start til March 1st?????

Check it out -- then tell me what you think????? moosequilts.blogspot.com/

Hugs, Di

GOALS AND CHALLENGES FOR FEBRUARY

2010-02-03T20:57:00.000-05:00

ANOTHER MONTH FOR LISTING MY GOALS--so here goes---

MY goals for OPAM are--

1. Make this fabric into a Mixer cover for the new mixer==

2. finish stitching this snowman top==

3. And my "Tilda" project is to make some of these Lambs for Easter!!!

FOR THE Charming Girls Club--

1. Finish these two Valentine tops and make into wall hangings or pillows--the red one is an UFO from 3-4 years ago--the bird one was just started--

2. Using my "stash" I want to make a set of placemats in green for St Patty's Day

3. and from my UFO stash of BOM's from 2009 I want to finish these blocks from the Tisket/Tasket series into individual door hangings like the other blocks!!

****** My other goals is to complete each of the BOM's listed in my side bar--picture will be posted as each block is done.

***** This months Schnibbles pattern--Summer's Best--top completed and hand quilted and finished

***** Spring Sew In on February 27th and work on spring items(??????)

***** Finish de-cluttering my apartment!!!!!!!!!!!!

Don't know if I have "forgotten" anything--if so I will "add it"!!!!!

See ya -- Happy Stitching

Hugs, Di

A NEW SCOOP---

2010-01-30T22:58:00.000-05:00

Here is what is -- what is!!!!

I have just changed the side bar to now include each BOM or goal project as I finish each for a picture in each challenge--that way we can both keep "track" of what that Di person is doing now!!!!

AND HERE IS OTHER PROJECTS DONE FOR THE MONTH OF JANUARY 2010!!

I did the these--

Set of four new placemats and some hearts that I stuffed for this bowl to put on the table!

Made a pillow out of leftover charms from Madeline Schnibbles and this

a pincushion for the pillow leftovers---I was good!!!

HUGS---

HI

2010-01-20T11:54:00.000-05:00

Well--it is still morning here---(11:50 am!!!!!)

I have collected some cute "Good Morning" clip art and wanted to use some---
and I had the computer on doing an update and a few things as I had trouble with the google program running last night--finally just had to give up!!!!

well I am off to the sewing room--by way of the kitchen--as it is now lunch time!!!!
Hope to have some "projects" to show later today--Have a great day and Happy stitching!!!!

Hugs, Di & co

I GOOFED!!!!

2010-01-07T21:38:00.000-05:00

I told you the wrong saying on the new little block I got here is it--

There's Snowplace Like Home---this is even cuter  than what I said yesterday--yet it means the same thing--and boy did I enjoy being home today--after having to go places for the last three days in a row--and I got some finished done in the sewing room today--some things that where cluttering up the cutting table--so I "tackled" them and I can say---I WON!!!!  You will need to go to the other site to see those projects--

Book report time---

and I even finished reading this book today---have you read it?????

It was a great book---just great down to earth reading---so I hope you will look for it and read it--it is based on true story--and that always makes a good read--I got this copy from my Library!!!

Well--i got lots of blog reading to do ---so need to go---

Hugs, Di & Co.

COUNTRY SHOPPING!!!!

2010-01-06T21:47:00.000-05:00

MY favorite country shop over town is having a sale this week and then on Saturday she will be closing until April---BOOOO--I will miss going there--and OK I admit it--I will also "miss" spending money--there!!!!

I could not resist a couple more snowmen for my collection--and a couple things here will go in my "gift" bag for others--the white circle is one of those battery lights and I just love the block that says "There is No place like home"--cause that is me---I LOVE BEING HOME---

And as she will not be open before Easter/Spring begins I did get some berry sprays to decorate with---Yellow is not really one of my colors--but these berries just looked so "spring" to me--that I went with them!!!

Be good and have a hug----Di & Co.

OUCH--I am already behind---

2010-01-02T22:26:00.000-05:00

what can I say==it's only the end of day 2 of the new year--but I feel like I am sooo far behind everybody else?????

A lot of you already have counted up and posted a review of your projects from 2009--I can only think of all the UFO's from 2009---and some of my goals for 2010!!!

so I best get my "tail" in gear and get with the program--so I am off to count my "quilted" treasures for last year!!!

See ya soon---hugs, Di

HAPPY NEW YEAR'S

2009-12-30T22:21:00.000-05:00

DON'T FORGET TO STAY AWAKE AND WATCH 2010 COME IN!!!!

HUGS, DI

IT'S THAT TIME OF YEAR?????

2009-12-27T21:29:00.000-05:00

YEP--- it is the time of the year when all our thoughts go to making a whole "NEW LIST" of goals, resolutions, dreams, plans---and for us quilter's we all have NEW visions of all the new upcoming fabric lines and patterns and classes!!!!

I know we are all saying that we ARE going to just use our stash's----BUT---will we????

What are your main quilting--sewing---craft goals for the winter of 2010????

&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&

And what new techique or craft would you like to learn in 2010????

************************

And what OLD project or UFO would you really like to complete SOON--if not sooner?????

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Hugs--"Workbasket-Di"

MERRY MERRY CHRISTMAS

2009-12-24T20:18:00.000-05:00

LOVE TO ALL MY FRIENDS---HUGS, DI

TO ALL--

2009-12-23T21:12:00.000-05:00

ANNOUNCING---

TO EACH AND EVERY ONE--

HUGS, DI

Welcome to Di's Place!!!

2009-12-15T22:22:00.000-05:00

Well--let's see--I needed to do a letter to Santa on my other site--Quilting is Blissfull--so I will put some of the things here I had planned for there---

And it will be your lucky night/day--cause this is also my 100th post for this site!!!!! ( have alot more posts on the other site!!!)

SOOOOOOOOOOOOO---any one leaving a comment here will be in for a drawing----how does that sound--oh what is the drawing--Hummm---I will have to check with one of my elves!!!!!

HERE IS SOME MORE WAYS TO SAY "MERRY CHRISTMAS"

Take your favorite "Dancer" out on the town!!!!!

Encourage Frosty to put down that "corncob pipe" and engage in more healthful pursuits!!

Don't forget to thank Mrs. Claus for being the "power" behind the sleigh!!

Thaw out a "Jack Frost" with a kind word or deed!!!!

And caring words and deeds are the "candy canes" of the holiday season. Hand them out to everyone you see!!!

And as I have talked about Santa

I also want to talk about this:

I Believe---

Hugs, Di