Feathers in the Nest

Happy Valentines' day to all

2012-02-14T08:45:00.000-05:00

I haven't posted in a while because my heart broke when Flossie Mae was either taken or killed this week. I know for sure she didn't just roam away because she lay by the front door or on the porch swing ALL the time. She pined to come inside so much but due to allergies she stayed outside with Thomas unless the temps got below freezing then they went into the basement level. I felt so bad by day 3 as I figured something must have happened to her. I'm not even going to go there where she could be as I just can't but if she passed away, I hope she was not hurting.

I will miss her. Thomas misses her alot. He didn't even eat for 3 days. But in my heart I knew after this long she went over to Rainbow Bridge where hopefully she met Ren and is now a very happy cat again.

Isn't it amazing how close we get to our furbabies? I know I do.

Well, anyways I hope your Valentines is going to be a good one. I got the best card I've ever got in my life and will hold it to my heart always.

This was at my door and very special message in a bottle. A very sweet, sweet gift.

I will cherish it forever.

The words written I will hold close to my heart forever.

I am reading, reading, and more reading. This is one of the books and I also got a brand new hardback called The Circle Maker. I didn't put these on my Kindle because I knew I wanted to write in them.

So my shelf is full of love books.

I know I still have stitching to finish so I can frame as well and hopefully on this gray, cloudy, misty cold day, I can get it all done.

This is the one in the header pic I finished last year and a freebie on Primitive Betty's blog. If you haven't been to her blog she is THE sweetest and has the best freebie's too. Take a look see.

Seems like it was yesterday I was playing with Flossie Mae!

Bless her heart where ever she parted and how.

She was a rescue but within one hour became family and lounged sleeping on the back porch in the sunlight.

And Abbie sends her love to all on this love-filled day!

She is a bit spoiled methinks.

She promptly and lightly patted me on the head this morning for her treat at 7am.

She likes to stick to a schedule.

She sends to all a warm, furry kiss and hug to let you know you are special no matter where you live and where you are.

From this love shack to another,

Happy Valentine's Day!

Jennifer

PS Whatever you do, do it with all your heart.

Tonight is going to be THE night to finish Mr. Darcy!

2012-02-09T19:12:00.000-05:00

Yes, it's hop here and hop there and definitely a full moon out there.

I'm so excited someone got me a ticket to see Van Halen in Atlanta!!!!!! EXCITED.

So, you might want to mute the playlist because I listed some of my favorite Van Halen songs and they aren't your average easy listening ones. ;)

But, this is the love week, right?

Speaking of that, I've been so busy that I'm hoping I get Mr. Darcy finished soon.

I did finish his sillouette.

I just need to put A Single Man in......then a key. Then frame!!!

Then he's done.

He will reside on top of my piano for the week.

He kinda likes music anyways. :P

Today was just one of those catch up days.

2 steps forward 1 step back.

I had a serious pout going on today when:

a) I mistakenly went the wrong time to the dentist and the clerk was about as friendly as......well, letter b here:

b) the postal clerk next who complained because I had 3 packages to mail at 4:58pm

c) Thomas coughed up a nice size hairball right there in front of me as if he was proud when I got home

d) I bumped a lady's car door in a parking lot getting out something and she went nuts and overboard while I just stood there and said "Really?"

but it all balances out with some REALLY good things too. So all is over and now warming up leftovers of leftovers for dinner, then settling in for working on Mr. Darcy's finale and some other things that are heartwarming..........I digress.

Time to get done and move on to another pretty sampler real soon if I could put my Kindle down for a second.

A Late Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-09T02:09:00.000-05:00

Yes, Miss Abbie was pouting tonight because I stayed out late.

took her about 38 minutes to decide to look at me.

She says no staying out late, Mama.

A treat made it all better and now she is my best friend again.

Furbabies.

Whoever said they don't have emotions, don't know my dog.

A Freebie from Notforgotten Farms blog---Cool!

2012-02-07T09:01:00.000-05:00

Notforgotten Farms is one of my favorite blogs to read. I love all her things, her creativity and she has a great freebie for any special person in your life for a quick stitch. I've printed it off and hope to stitch it up soon. In case you haven't seen it click here:

http://farmhousenotforgotten.blogspot.com/2012/01/token-of-friendship-free-pattern-for.html

It's called A Token of Friendship designed by Lorrie at Notforgotten Farm.

Visit her blog for more primitive designs. She also hooks. (ok, ok, I know that sounds weird) but honestly she is a very talented lady.

I hope your week started off yesterday with lots of love and warmth.

After being out of the swing of things for a while, I've finally gotten back into Yoga and already can feel the difference in the way I feel. I love the stretches and learning new poses. I'm amazed at the flexibility it builds and how much each day to add to this.

Yoga. It does a body good.

Yada. A new word I learned, in Hebrew yesterday in reading. It means "showing love" and a deep close connection with someone. I thought it was cool to learn that.

Yada is dedicating ourselves to a person so we can engage them with our love and affection.

Yada for Valentines month!

My designing mind may work further with that thought today in between a list of chores to get done.

Namaste to Tuesday!

Pictures Tell a Thousand Words and so Do Books

2012-02-05T20:44:00.000-05:00

I'm just a girl, standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her. ~~Notting Hill, 1999

Just a thought-provoking day as I sat on my back porch in the sunny, cool breeze and finished chapter 2 and into chapter 3 of a book that is really good, A Confident Heart by Renee Swope.

I'm catching up on an online study.

Two primary things struck me in the first chapter

1) Doubt and Hope cannot exist at the same time.

2) There will always be those who judge us, hurt us, turn their heads, lie to us, and shun us even though we are human and not perfect; but there is One who made us, that will never do any of that to us.

3) If we are living/seeing shadows, it's because we are not turned toward the light.

I don't know why I started it really, but in thinking, how ironic, Valentine's month is a good time to read this after-all.

It's about a very good love story which follows us from birth to death.

If you would like to join this study you can click here:

http://reneeswope.com/aconfidentheart/

and on facebook as well here:

https://www.facebook.com/#!/AConfidentHeart

If you purchase the book, I recommend the paperback instead of the Kindle as you would probably write in your book to reread later on someday.

I know this has nothing to do with stitching but I just wanted to share as we all are not just compartmentalized into one thing. We really have a variety of areas of life and interests, just as there are different kinds of fiber that hold us all together for a pattern.

Sleep well, friend.

Till later,

Jennifer

2012-02-05T08:49:00.000-05:00

Unicoi State Park Lookout

Helen, Ga.

“Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again; from the depths of the earth you will again bring me up.” Psalm 71:20 (NIV)

Progress on Mr. Darcy and other sundries

2012-02-05T00:31:00.000-05:00

Saturday was a relaxing day. I almost finished Mr. Darcy sampler by the Sampler Girl.

I've picked out a simple black wood frame 5 x 7 for it when finished.

I think it's a great contrast and will be a good addition to my Valentine's collection.

Of course, Valentine's can be and should be every day.

Love.

I also joined an online Bible study with this book which is very comforting and is one that will change your life. It certainly is good for women and confirms that they are special and loved just the way they are, by one man who will always love and protect.

Of course, I was behind in enrolling but catching up. I've gone through chapter 3.

But it 's one that each chapter provokes much reflection and such a relief that no matter what the world thinks, all that matters is what God thinks of our choices. He loved us first. He is the only one that can love us unconditionally.

http://reneeswope.com/aconfidentheart/

This is the site, take a look-see.

My dollar store visit find was this rack which is rustic and oh so prim.

I love it.

I spent some time deep cleaning the kitchen and getting more organized.

All dishes are clean and put away for easy access. For 5 bucks it was well worth it.

My goal is after church to spend time finishing this and framing it.

I've got next to move on to the Coverlet Birds and I can't wait. Beeeeautiful colors.

A cozy home, stitching, a good friend, a good book, and rain on the metal roof to lull me to sleep.

What could I ask for any better than that for today. My pace is slower. My mind is calm. I have someone who is always there with open arms. It's a nice change, a miracle.

Tomorrow is a new day.

Wishing blessings at your home and peace. Peace no matter what life brings you.

You are special.

Till later,

Jennifer

The Groundhog said what?

2012-02-02T10:29:00.001-05:00

I read that we have at least 6 more weeks of Winter. I can't believe it because it's been a very WET, mild Winter so far, and I"m not complaining at all. I took a walk early this morning with the Valentine Couple of the Week here who are learning all about "couples issues".

shhhhhh......Thomas thinks he is the father. I can't tell him any different.

And she stands by her man too.

He sits on the porch just watching for any (and there have been many) potential suitors. We have squirrels EVERYWHERE now. He is a man on a mission!

He said, he did it, that's his story and he is sticking to it.

He is very affectionate and she is too.

Too bad Thomas was fixed long ago, as they would have made pretty kitties together.

and although they look out for one another especially at the feeding table,

they are a reminder of what true love is or should be.

Looking in the same direction, honest, and not afraid to show affection for each other.

yep, everything is wet, wet wet. The Sun is out though and I love it.

Everything looked so fresh this morning on my walk.

I just know Spring will be here soon.

And I hope so as I have many plans.

I found one bloomed daffodil and many with bulbs already.

I love daffodils.

so when the ground dries out I can actually get the leaves blown with my new leaf blower but its way too wet right now.

almost there though.

Promises.

Sweet promises and fun times ahead.

Plan on , for the first time since living here, planting some flowers in the back.

It's SO much cleaner now and really looks good. Gotta get everything to dry out though.

I think I have a helper or two this Spring that likes flowers. ;)

And by the time I'm done will be a nice, peaceful creative space for stitching on Spring and Summer evenings, by natural light.

or reading. Speaking of reading, I've been reading this book and it's really good for women.

Flossie Mae said that "right here" is the perfect spot.

a future flower garden.

It's amazing what grace has done for me and for others too.

I have made it a habit, a personal goal, to surround myself with positive things.

It's refreshing.

These rocks are little reminders right now by my fireplace, soon in the Summer to be out in the garden.

I just used an old primitive bowl to hold them in good view for daily reminders of what's important to remember.

I've thought of designing some little tokens like this.

I've got to get my designing hat on soon.

so for those who like little stitch projects, look for this coming soon from Feathers in the Nest.

Because this nest, is full of promise.

just as we all are, if we only look for it.

And given the right conditions of positve surroundings, positive people, and a good attitude,

we will bloom where we are planted.

I'm so thankful this morning after a good walk on a pretty Sunny day to know the promise of Spring to come, and to be able to share this with you, my friend.

I hope your Thursday is full of promise and positive people who inspire you and positive things that touch your creative heart, like mine was this morning.

Love ya,

Jennifer

And on the 7th day~~~Rest

2012-01-29T09:23:00.000-05:00

Are you running to or running from something?

Happy Sunday!

I hope it's a restful day for all who read here and that you will be refreshed and renewed for the coming week.

Every day is a gift.

Love,

Jennifer

Sweet Valentine Goodies for the Stash

2012-01-26T20:56:00.000-05:00

The rainy days in Georgia are growing loooooooonger. It's a yucky, rainy evening and we've had many of them this Winter!

But all in all the month of January is almost to a close and in such conversation of "winding it up" I wanted to share with you some things I've added to my stash in the past 6 weeks.

If you like this as much as I do, you can get this and the thread winders at your local Hobby Lobby!

Some are included but I get extra to wind some floss.

(It's a good thing I don't live close to one) LOL

I just love the Springy like green color!

I thought it was a total neat way to add to the other many methods I have for organizing fibers.

Of course I couldn't help but get a couple of heart buttons while I was there.

2 hearts are always a cheerful treat.

And some vintage cotton lace ribbon too.

And mail items NOT from Hobby Lobby are:

an 8 in square black prim wood frame

and my most favorite is this new design Coverlet Birds!

I absolutely LOVE coverlets and when I saw this little piece I knew I had to stitch it.

Definitely will pull me out of the creative slump along with other cheerful adventures.

I also got the recommended Needlepoint Silks of which I have never used before but I do LOVE stitching with silk and I'm sure this one will be a treasure. I've heard only good things about this brand.

The fabric I chose was not the recommended fabric but is As Days Gone By ( I think is the name) by ???? I just had a brain blip. I'm having alot of those lately. ;)

Design is by The Scarlett House

I'm just in love with the colors.

I hope I pick up some speed on this one

I just need to pick it up....LOL This should be a quickie! It's the Sampler Girl's Mr. Darcy sampler.

Wrinkles and all, here it is so far. Yes, I know the hoop makes marks, I just change around and on certain pieces I'll pick it up from time to time. Hopefully the wrinkles will come out. xxxxxx fingers

Here you can see the contrast of the color of linens, As Days Gone By and 32 ct natural Belfast linen.

I love both actually.

Torn between two lovers. :p

and I was in a Hearts Aflame mood, so I got this Kelmscott needleminder to plant my needles on while I'm stitching my Valentiney samplers. ;)

Oh, hmmmm.....yes, it was in the garden.

Yes, Miss Flossie Mae is going to have kittens and what's really funny is that Thomas, bless his heart, thinks he is the father of them but he can't be as he is neutered, but he tried, yes he did at my astonishment.

Honestly, they are a matching couple now and I think they are this year's Valentines couple expecting!

They sit together on the front porch swing every day.

I guess there's something in the air around here.

I think I was a wee bit late on getting Miss Flossie Mae fixed.

Will be interesting what colors her kitties will be.

Hope your weekend is full of fun and adventure. I know mine will be. I'm attending a seminar Saturday out of town to hear a speaker for the book A Confident Heart by Renee Swope. I think it will be AWESOME! I might even sneak my stitching in there while I listen if my eyes will let me see without the magnifier light. I've really gotten addicted to the magnifier light even with my glasses.

Stay sweet and until we meet,

Jennifer

New start on Mr. Darcy sampler

2012-01-22T22:56:00.000-05:00

After a 5 hour nap of total quiet, with nothing but a fireside cracklin' sound today, I put a few stitches to get a good start on Mr.Darcy's sampler by The Sampler Girl.

I'm using Belle Soie Teddy Bear, Crescent Colors for the lettering, and the DMC cotton as suggested for the heart so far.

Yup, this one will be added to my Valentine's collection and plan to frame in a 5 x 7 black wood frame when done.

This is on natural Belfast linen of what count I can't remember but I think 32.

There's nothing like a Jane Austen sampler to get the heart pumping for Valentines or any day!

I really, really enjoy stitching with the silks. Almost too much!

Of course this verse is the beginning of Pride and Prejudice and such a neat verse for a sampler!

Lovin' it.

Hope your Monday treats you nicely.

Off to bed for the Monday morning rush if I can sleep. If I can't I'll come back to this sampler in the quiet and work on it more. I'm totally not used to lying flat on my back and sleeping for 5 hours straight during the daytime. :)

Stay warm and cozy,

Jennifer

Sappy Saturdays

2012-01-21T16:57:00.002-05:00

So how was your week?

Mine went well, very well, taking a day at the time and the more days, the more I know I'm at peace.

Went to one of my fave places for a burger today and also received a dozen, beautiful red roses delivered to my house today, so love is definitely in the air here, with sweetness, and just making every day a Valentine's Day right now!! Even Flossie Mae has unexpectedly attracted all male cats for the past 2 days and she will probably be delivering kittens. I was late getting her fixed and was assured that cats don't go into heat until Spring. hummmm.......not here. LOL

So inspired, I decided to set up a few of my favorite Valentine's decor on top of my piano around my new roses and take a look-see:

A cup of tea anyone?

Times like these when I dust and can see the furniture. ;p

I love tea. I have some new Youthberry tea with orange from Teavana and have carefully enjoyed the full antioxidant benefits of it since I got it last week. Full of savory healing, wholesome and delicate goodness.

and there is one certainty, time moves right along.

And that is a good thing as I ponder many circumstances, some given to me unexpectedly in this life, but all have a purpose to fit somewhere. In time.

I have confidence in that much.

I got out some of my favorite pillow keeps

This one is from designer, The Sampler Girl, stitched by me. One of her freebies.

The top one, a freebie by Primitive Betty's stitched by me and another one which I love so dear.

I also love small quilt heart pillows. And this one just looks good here too.

And as I said this is Sappy Saturday as I miss my kids, now adults and hold them in my heart until they decide one day maybe to reconnect. I'm at peace with it. I know they will do what their heart leads them to do. They've tried many things to put a divide between us but in time they will learn the wisdom that mama's always love their babies and will miss them too.

It feels good to come to acceptance of these and many things that are "on my heart" today.

Because I know that really all things work together for good according to His purpose in his Time.

That's a promise I keep with MY heart.

and the roses, ahhhhhh, yes the beautiful roses. Mr. Darcy really does exist, ladies!

Now that's a sappy story as well with most of it unwritten for safety reasons. But as I've gotten a few emails about "the BodyGuard Situation",

this is where I must tell you the truth as he chose to live another life for the past several years, a life full of lies and deception, dishonesty and hurt, danger and pride, and I was absolutely unaware of many of his deceptions until July of this past year, but there again...... It was my time, my prayer was answered in months and as he strived hard to hurt me as much as he could, he really ended up being destructive to himself.

He is no longer in my life and I have no ill-will for him and he knows that. I am so glad I finally saw the light, the real kind of what kind of light he carried on our journey.

The rest is unwritten and will stay that way for safety reasons, but all in all, I feel safe with the One that loved me first, My Heavenly Father.

He protected me many times in my life and this past year was one of them.

He surrounded me with true friends and those who chose to say curt words and leave my life, I accepted their decisions as well, as they only didn't really understand, thank goodness the hades I went through so there is peace with that and those I've connected with are purposely only positive people right now.

I learned a hard lesson on trust many times in my life as many of you have too in yours. I am no different and am just saying that if you listen to your heart, your prayers will be answered. Just get ready for them to be answered in ways you may not think it will be.

By my bed is framed Be Still and Know I am God, and I see that when I awake and when I go to bed.

I stitched it a couple of years ago, designed by The Sampler Girl and it's given me so much encouragement.

So, last year, yes I went through a horrendous divorce with a man who's goal was only to hurt and hurt bad in every way.

I'm a thankful woman for the blessings I have and for the love of God to protect me even though he used every low avenue he could to deceive and perpetuate his deep seated lies.

I hope none of you go through this kind of betrayal but if you do, remember.... that there is a rainbow after the rain.

As a totally not interested person in relationships at all after all that, I guess another door opened, and this time, I have never felt so much peace inside with the friendship we've attained. It's refreshing, rejuvenating, lifting, and totally awestruck by the miracle God put in my life after Christmas Day.

The story will be unwritten here but all I can say is that ONLY God would be one to put this together and things that have happened are amazingly refreshing.

And for this, and other reasons, stitching, has been much to the side in the past several months.

But there are seasons in life that we all go through and I ONLY choose to respond and be with positive people as the negative, I really can't relate to and it drains me right now. I love to help others but those that are hurtful, I let go. It was time.

You wouldn't believe (maybe you would) some emails I got during this time from some bloggers.

I really felt sorry for them. I don't think they understood at all. But, I hope you know I heart each of you reading this blog, for whatever brought you to it today to read.

sometimes we don't know where the tree stops and the water begins but the reflection I see out my window one evening said it all.

Sometimes what we think we are living is only a shadow.

So, I'm totally in God's hands with what doors open next, but I will always trust Him forever.

I think 2012 and beyond is another chapter of life for me. Even the love of music is coming back for me. And it's nice to have someone to share that with.

So, I'm enjoying each day as best I can and that's the best we all can do.

One day the rest of the story will be written. It may require a book format! LOL

Through all this I learned these lessons:

1) no marriage or relationship can be based on dishonesty, deception, lies, and abuse

2) it takes 2 mature people to make one, just one doesn't work

3) never take a day for granted, it might change your life forever

4) thank all the friends who stuck with you and even those who chose to leave you for it showed you who really cared to start with.

5) slowly open your heart to a real kind of love because it can happen.

6) hug your children every day if you have the chance. If you can't, always hope, never lose hope.

7) if you've never seen your marriage partner open a Bible until his lies are found out, then pretends to do so and uses the word of God in a hateful way, RUN, don't walk. No matter what. God does not come looking for us. He knows where we are, we look for HIM.

8) accept nothing less than God being the foundation of a marriage relationship

9) life is too short to waste it trying to explain to former "friends" when they want to run as if it's contagious. If they were really your friend to start with, they would still be with you, if they dropped you for whatever, just nod, bow, and open the door for them.

10) Take safety seriously. If someone, anyone, comes to you in a dangerous situation in fear, don't say "I don't want to get involved" because in essence you really have taken the abuser's side by turning your head.

11) Pray. Pray without ceasing even when nothing but tears are flowing and you're speaking to the mountains and no one else because He DOES hear our specific requests and He already knows what we need if we just ask and be still. Patience. His TIME not ours.

and most important

12) I've found out twice what love is not so I can better recognize what love REALLY is. Even though I went through alot through the years, I'm thankful because I wouldn't know without the contrast.

The more days go by, the bigger the rainbow gets.

I hope you have a lovely Saturday evening and thank you for taking time out of your day to read my sappy moments today as I reflect on some very deep things, love, clean and take care of my home.

Home is Where the Heart Is means much more to me now.

Till later,

Jennifer

Twisted Tuesday

2012-01-17T10:11:00.000-05:00

So how many of us made New Year's resolutions this year??? and still are keeping them???
well, I broke one but reset it to start again soon.
Just remember it's never too late to start over. Just the mere fact that you try is enough of a start for encouragement that YOU CAN!

this is one reason, and only one that I have not gotten as much as I like done.

This is the OTHER side of the burn. I wouldn't even put the burned parts of my arm and top of my right hand on here are you might freak.

But slowly with medicine it's getting better except for one spot which yesterday they think after looking at it was really a third degree burn. It's painful and on top of my right hand.

But like I said it's so much better.

I pulled out the container the spaghetti sauce was cooking in and it melted it, so that's how hot it was.

Miss Abbie has been the sweetest in accompaning the plan of care of healing, along with some metal tasting Cipro and silvadene cream wraps.

I did manage to vacuum last night and oh what hair balls from Miss Abbie she makes.

If all that fiber could be put together I would never have to buy white DMC again.

So lately things that have helped me heal are:

friends

love

Abbie

silvadene wraps

antibiotics

Strawberry milkshakes from DQ

sleep

and more sleep

and

TIME

yes, time heals wounds and this, we all know is true. So for this time, today, I'm going to make the best of it with what I have and try to have fun while I"m at it!

Abbie says "Hi ya'll"

She is claiming HER side of the bed. She's out like a light in a minute while I read in bed.

yep, out like a light. She loves the smell of Downy straight out of the dryer. ;)

Hope your Tuesday goes well and that TIME is moving for you in a positive direction!

I ordered a very cool pattern just the other day with the threads and linen. I can't wait to show you!

Stay cozy,

Jennifer

The Key to My Heart

2012-01-15T14:42:00.000-05:00

use linen and colors of your choice

Just a beautiful sunny day here in the mountains and although no snow on the ground, I thought I would repost this little freebie in case you were "feeling the love" today and stitching up for Valentine's Day.

The header photo shows this stitched up by Catherine from Branblewood Stitches blog!

She stitched up 3 of mine last year and put in a beautiful display for Valentine's.

This is one of them.

I hope we do get at least one good snow this Winter! While it's not too fun to drive through, I just know that when it does snow and I'm at home, I love to make a snow man and walk through it with my thermal long jane's on, mittens, and scarf and I instantly feel about the age of 10 then. ;)

I read this today and sent to someone special. I thought I would share with you too.

Key To My Heart

by Amanda Marie

I had closed the door upon my heart

and wouldn't let anyone in

I had trusted and loved only to be hurt

but that would never happen again

I locked the door and

tossed the key as

hard and as far as I could

My heart was closed for good

Then you came into my life and

made me change my mind

just when I thought that

tiny key was impossible to find

that is when you held out your hand

and proved me wrong

inside your palm was the

Key to My Heart

You had it all along

So. Who holds the key. The key to your heart?

Finding a sunny spot today

2012-01-14T10:20:00.000-05:00

Got up. Made coffee. Sent Abbie to "do her business" after a 13 hour induced sleep from nausea and pain meds for my hand last night. Made toast to down some more antibiotics (gross but what's the alternative now).

And then looked over and saw a bright spot in my day. ;)

Abbie found her blanket and dragged it over to find just the perfect sunny spot and now she's chillin'.

Yep Miss Ray of Sunshine she is!

Who me?

May we all be as content as finding that simple ray of sunshine on this cold Saturday

And meditate on those important people and things that we surround ourselves with full of love.

That's what I plan to do now and always.

Got infected especially on the burn of my right hand. Doc said yesterday antibiotics are a must not an option so as nauseating as they are, I'm taking them as ordered. I had 2nd degree burns all the way up the left arm and the top of the right hand is a little worse but I'm working hard at healing it up.

Please pray for me for these burns. I really didn't need this to happen at all but much less right now.

Came home last night freezing to death and after a bath and nausea med slept from 8p to 9:30am.

Going to finish my coffee now.

Have a great weekend and I hope your sunny spot is where you will be!

Love ya,

Jennifer

It's really easy to think about Mr. Darcy now

2012-01-10T21:08:00.000-05:00

My stitching slump is done. Over. Just because it just is.

I pulled another, yes, another serial starter, from my stash as I'm so inspired by Mr. Darcy. :)

Yes, Mr. Darcy is swooning ladies........still in this century.

I have had this pattern in my stash for a long time, put a few stitches in today and then answered the door to a dozen roses in my favorite color!!!

Mr. Darcy sampler

designer The Sampler Girl

Right now, I'm beginning the lettering in Crescent Colors Belle Soie Teddy Bear.

I'm so blessed. I love pink roses! Makes my skirt fly up pretty high. LOL

I'm a bit distracted of late.

I finally mailed the giveaway to the post office and the one I owed Lorraine (embarrassed to say) which also included a special treat for her for waiting through the storm with me. I hope she likes it. Lorraine, thank you for your patience!

Only good things for 2012, positive things are what I'm focusing on.

However, in the middle of this over the weekend I had an accident with spaghetti sauce, boiling in a microwave dish and when I took it down it went everywhere but the plate. I had 2nd degree burns all over my left arm, as I had sleeveless on, and top of my right hand.

Today is the first day the swelling in my hands went down to normal.

Yes, I'm a bit clutzy this week but it's healing good and hoping this does not leave scars. XXXX

I drove myself to Urgent Care and couldn't have asked for better doc on call so everything going well now, healing and back to typing faster and hopefully stitching some in between this:

Attention-seeking, Rug-roller, Rose-stem eater, and Beggar of Treats

I have no idea what has gotten into Abbie but I think she is showing me that she needs more lap time and back rubs. I don't think she could sleep any closer under my neck at night.

I did splurge on a small purse last week that just inspired me so that it had to come home with me.

Brighton makes my knees weak.

When I walked past the largest Brighton store I've seen in my entire life, I had go in as it was like a candy store. They said it just opened 2 months ago. This was on sale and on the inside is this:

When I opened it and read that on the inside, I caved.

All you need is Love.....I'm humming the Beatles song now all the time. ;p

Which leads me on a search for a sampler, kind of a big project but I will have the time.....It is monochromatic and has all the attributes of Love. Have you seen that one before?

I'm on a serious search for it to work on this year.

But right now, The Sampler Girl's Design, Mr. Darcy, will take my attention and affections. :)

I hope your week is going well so far!

Abbie says

2012-01-07T02:28:00.000-05:00

that mommie is having an Eat Pray Love part of her journey right now BUT

she is picking out another stitching project soon. She misses it alot.

Hang in with me.

This is what wakes me in the morning, loves me and sleeps on my neck at night.

She has gotten spoiled I think.

Abigail Rennee likes to play and when she is not being played WITH, she now rearranges all the rugs in the house and sorts her toys in a row for me to be ready for play. I hope to get out something from my stash to work on by tomorrow night.

Thanks for all your patience. The last two weeks have been bliss. I can't say more. ;)

My Color of Pink for the Week

2012-01-02T10:33:00.000-05:00

A very special friend, very special sent me THE. most. beautiful. flowers for me to enjoy during my week off and I had them sitting around in various spots of my family room, dining room

and then I wanted to wipe the counters off and made a turn to put it by my picture and said....hummmmmm.....I can't believe there are actually azaelas scattered in this bouquet and it goes so well with this pic that was already on my counter! Isn't this pretty together?

So I just kept them there for this week. They look so pretty and sent from a heart of gold.

If you read my blog regularly, you may remember when I posted pics of Crescent Hill Baptist Church. This is the church that is actually a historical marker in the local area and I have attended church there and it's very simple and quaint. This is also the one I told you about in April/May where it all started with a long prayer. It's a special place to me. The doors are always open.

these roses smell so good, I can't even explain.

So occasionally I walk by and just sniff roses like those new marker crayons when we were little. LOL

ok, I confess I did love the smell of new crayons as a little girl..........ok on now from confessions......

I just wanted to show you my world of PINK this week!

A special sampler in memory of Grace

2012-01-01T13:03:00.000-05:00

I want to send out many, many positive thoughts to readers for the best 2012 possible!

I know that this past year in review helped me see that true light shines after the rain. I couldn't have spent a better New Year's Eve this year and so looking forward to this year. I have a big smile on my face for many reasons.

God has been so good to me this year even through the ups and downs and I have faith He will continue to be there through all times. I can testify that He puts together a beautiful plan and knows exactly the right time to reveal it.

About this time of year, I always think of my Mama Grace, yes, that's what I called my grandmother that meant the world to me as a little child. She was probably one of the best mentors I had as a very young girl. She instilled in me faith in God, beauty of nature, creativity, joy, music, love, and encouragement.

She had a way with me that I can't even explain, but persisted after her early death in her mid 50's.

She never looked like the typical grandma and had the persistence and grace that I always dreamed to have growing up.

In fact, her name was Grace and she indeed, filled that name well.

She was born and died in the month of December. I'll never forget when I was asleep on Dec 31st, my mother gently brushed my hair back from my sleepy face in bed while the early, early morning was dark and told me, "honey, Mama Grace went to heaven during the night". We had expected it at some point because she had a malignant brain tumor that was caught very late. I watched her go from an energetic woman to a frail, head-shaven, sickly woman in 3 months time. Even though expected, I cried so hard because the world was different after that and my mom was sad to watch her go as well.

I have only good memories of her. I can't think of one moment I would change.

Have you had people close in your life that made such a difference early on?

Do you hold them close in your heart?

I designed something last year for her and then this past week I sat down and let me heart flow again in her memory for another sampler in her honor and memory.

I learned through her, that even through cold, dark Winters, there are some special flowers that still bloom and remain beautiful.

Amazing Grace

designed by Jennifer A Dalenberg

I put several formats and I hope that you can print easily. I also put a short version design in the middle if you like just the quote only.

Please let me know if this doesn't print for you as some haven't printed the whole page in the past and I really didn't realize that.

I would so appreciate it and if you do stitch up, send me a pic at

jennifer.dalenberg@yahoo.com

and I will display your finish here

Colors and linen of your choice but I suggest:

Gentle Art Deep Sea--darker blue

Gentle Art Huckleberry (lighter, brighter blue)

Gentle Art Strawbonnet (face and hands)

Gentle Art Dark Chocolate --dark brown

Gentle Art Oatmeal (light whiter color blocked around GRACE)

Crescent Colors Frozen Margarita--lighter green

Crescent Colors Weeping Willow

Crescent Colors Heatherleigh (light purple)

Crescent Colors Pansy Purple

DMC 746 off white

DMC 743 gold

I may start on this one soon. I've been so blessed this week that I'm giddy. :)

Amazine Grace,

Jennifer

What a great week off!

2011-12-28T18:27:00.003-05:00

This has been the best week and starting out with an early good 2012 indeed! Met a great friend this week and it's been awesome to say the least, refreshing.

This song was one of my very favorites since I was in 5th grade singing it by the old piano in my 5th grade class every morning. My teacher imparted her love for music in all of us who were fortunate to have her as our teacher that year. Really good times in life and turning points all remind me of this song. It has followed me all my life and I love this U-tube version of it with Audrey Hepburn.

Hope your Wednesday is as wonderful as mine today!

Jennifer

Abbie says that the winner of the Simple Christmas Giveaway is

2011-12-25T23:35:00.003-05:00

Wait.

She forgot........she's so into her new jacket she got for Christmas

DIXIESAMPLER from Alabama!

YEAH!!!!

Send me yourcontact info to freemail address at jennifer.dalenberg@yahoo.com

Yours and one other will go out this week.

Bedhead

She becomes catatonic when I put something new on her for about 5 minutes. Then she's fine.......LOL

This litle puffed jacket will keep her warm. The hoodie has the option to be snapped if not in use, I like that.

Hope you had a good Christmas and I wish I could have given everyone who entered one of each but just can't right now. :(

BUT! stay tuned this week for a new freebie and the final finish of A Christmas Heart sampler. I finished stitching but not finishing yet.

I love it, the verse is so sweet.

Thank you again for all your emails and comments. They mean the world to me.

Hope 2012 brings you good times and happiness!

Jennifer

Finishing up on Christmas Day--A Christmas Heart sampler

2011-12-25T00:55:00.001-05:00

A Christmas Heart progress ~~~ almost done but finishing tomorrow---hopefully. I went to my fabric pantry and found a fat quarter that would compliment this well. This has been a fun, simple sampler to design and stitch.

I have to admit as I was stitching the C D part instead of Charles Dickens, I thought of Christmas Day. ;)

Woops, it IS Christmas Day. This night owl is heading for bed, after a couple more Ginger cookies and some milk. Can't have Christmas Eve without baking cookies. They are yummmmmmy.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T14:36:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas to all and hope all your wishes come true.

Jennifer

Nesting the gift of Christmas

2011-12-22T12:03:00.000-05:00

I'm in the process of developing a big stitching space for more than one here.

I'm trying to make it cozy and comfortable. Still have paint to do but so excited to stretch out.

A quilt on the sofa

repurposing all I have and making it usable for this space

a cozy spot for larger projects and my frame

I'm definitely not one for plastic storage but I found these beautiful storage boxes at Walmart a few weeks ago. I thought they looked so colonial and complementing the colors I'm using for a warm cozy space in my office area.

This very heavy unit was going to trash when someone moved so I asked to PULLEAZE let me take it!

And it came home with me. I'm planning on painting this in a primitive color and putting in the group stitchy spot to hold my docking station for music and any other stitchy tools.

Music is a must for me, as it speaks to my heart.

Another space I love to stitch in a large mission rocker.

The pic over the rocker I found the print last week for 6.00 at one of my favorite thrift stores.

I knew immediately that I had the perfect heavy frame for it. The frame was actually given to me in 1985 by my brother and since then has housed several different prints.

Ironically I saw this very same print in Country Sampler magazine.....had to look twice.

and this is another old rocker if a friend would like to join me with perfect lighting.

I rocked my ~~babies~~ kids in this chair.

Surrounded by some of my favorite things.

The pic on the left was drawn by my daughter years ago and I treasure it.

The one on the right is a print of a painting at Colonial Williamsburg. I got the print on my trip last year and just framed last night.

sorry about the glare, very hard not to this morning. What blessings!

primitive tea lights in holders makes this feel truly like HOME

a few favorite ornies scattered around the homestead

My mother sent this as my Christmas gift this year. She said when she saw it, she instantly thought of me.

It was very encouraging to say the least and fit perfectly on the shelf next to my stitching chair.

a touch of Christmas at another stitching spot.

an old silver tree graced with pretty pink and white.

I feel very blessed this year and at peace.

Guests can tell I love stitching when they walk in the door. Makes me smile!

Now, as I get the house in a cozier mood for the Holidays and thereafter, I can finally actually stitch.

The star and angels gave the wise men direction on Christmas.

and what joy I have in a project in process for stitchers to have a retreat to the mountains, where I am grounded and feel at peace. Still have much work to do, but coming along great right now!

2012 is going to be a great year!!

the star will guide the way

Cozy up your nest

and you will feel your best!

Are you ready for Christmas?

That's what people I see in passing ask me and I think to myself, yes, I'm ready for Christmas because to me Christmas is in our hearts all year.

The peace, the joy, the promise of unconditional love are gifts that are on my Christmas journey from this year and hereafter.

Well, off to work on a design that I will post later as a freebie. I think you will like it. ;)

A Week before Christmas and all through the house

2011-12-18T23:49:00.000-05:00

The Week Before Christmas

A week before Christmas and all through the house;
many creatures are stirring, even the cats.
They swing on the front door wreath to get a peak in.
And make us laugh in humor to wonder what's next from them.

We cooked Christmas cookies and sprinkled them with sugar
in hopes that our week is sweet and filled with splendor
The Christmas cards are all addressed to special people
and waiting to go to the post office, then off to the church with a steeple.

yes, church on Christmas Eve is a special blessing indeed.
For we remember what the true meaning of Christmas will bring.
Each year we are reminded of true blessings in all forms
That lead us to promises and hope for much more.

We don't necessarily wish for things for they
are really not the meaning of this holiday
We wish for peace and harmony within
our true friends hearts and those who try to win.

For all of us really want to be close to our Maker
and praise Him for what He has done, even if through baking
Baking kind gifts to acquaintances and friends
fills my heart with the true gift of Christmas.

In this late hour, my Abigail is restless
but hopeful for a better 2012 that's blessed
She is a true companion with unconditional love
the kind that God wants us all to spread to the ones we love

If ever you don't believe in Angels oh so near,
read the Christmas story and I can testify they are here.
Some are busy and some are not
But all in all, it's what we got

To protect us, guide us, and send good cheer
At a time, a precious time, of the end of the year
To all my friends both far and near
Remember the angels said not to fear

For baby Jesus was born in a manger to share
all His love for all of us, even those who do not care.
He's forgiving in that way, which makes him more special
For forgiveness was born, to help us with protection.

So as you start the week before Christmas
think of all that God has done for you
And anyone's Christmas is a glad time that is due.
After many trials and tribulations that are promised to endure
It started with one baby who's birthday is pure.

by Jennifer Dalenberg

Happy Sunday soon to end and hoping you had a great one!