tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36868021984978890092024-03-08T07:38:21.956-06:00Counting Bits of JoyJoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.comBlogger162125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-13904270149088740072021-11-26T13:13:00.000-06:002021-11-26T13:13:57.045-06:00<p> </p>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-15849853645098947302018-01-02T18:32:00.000-06:002018-01-02T18:32:27.550-06:00What to do. . .Blog, stitch, finish work? I have no idea where to start.<br />
<br />
My world is spinning with change. Trying to keep up and not knowing where to start. Turning the page of the calendar was an eye-opener for sure. 2018. . .really? Where did 2017 go, not to mention the last 3 years?! <br />
<br />
Life is what you make it and I'm going for love, joy and kindness. Hopefully, that will include saying hello on occasion to my blog friends.<br />
<br />
<b>How about you? What are your plans for 2018?</b>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-82330488084930668512017-04-22T09:24:00.000-05:002017-04-22T09:24:55.415-05:00Counting. . .<span style="font-size: large;">And counting the days, or should I say the months since I have posted. I think of it often and do so enjoy seeing your posts. Where does the time go?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Life is becoming a new normal here and all is well. I am, however, surprised that I even remember how to start a post. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FinelyFinishedbbg023/"><b>Finely Finished</b></a> is now a full time job--not my favorite word. Finish work is a passion for me (not a job) and I'm fortunate to have clients' that allow me to spend time in the studio and "create" using their finely stitched pieces. And how fun to have someone say "do your magic"! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Strawberries seem to be a favorite to stitch these days. With so many lovely designs, I can see why. Erica Michaels' Quaker Strawberry has passed through the studio in many color ways.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R4_DOBR_MwA/WPtlgQ8kAcI/AAAAAAAACWo/W4LXD-xFOpwargz2mhjkZi2O_frRjA58ACLcB/s1600/IMG_5751%2BFFs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R4_DOBR_MwA/WPtlgQ8kAcI/AAAAAAAACWo/W4LXD-xFOpwargz2mhjkZi2O_frRjA58ACLcB/s400/IMG_5751%2BFFs.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><br /></b>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Tell me. . .are you counting stitches or days?</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"> Thank you for stopping by, looking forward to hearing from you.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-62947073250086753472016-10-08T09:49:00.001-05:002016-10-08T10:37:09.808-05:00Cool days. . .<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cooler nights. It must be Fall! My favorite time of year.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">For me, it's an even better time to enjoy the outdoors and garden.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8mEoUNClmPk/V_kCyZcH7zI/AAAAAAAACVU/L2mKuKAhnSQG2t1r9eeHYovL1LvycMThgCLcB/s1600/IMG_5022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8mEoUNClmPk/V_kCyZcH7zI/AAAAAAAACVU/L2mKuKAhnSQG2t1r9eeHYovL1LvycMThgCLcB/s400/IMG_5022.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I tend to decorate a bit indoors and out with the change of seasons. Although this year, my heart didn't seem to be in it. Rather do nothing, I'm "changing things up" and having fun doing so.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FTWDqrkQWfU/V_kDbl8z-iI/AAAAAAAACVc/l4f0dZFznZYHSR6dtYv9Iv2avVq7jMUOQCLcB/s1600/fullsizeoutput_423.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FTWDqrkQWfU/V_kDbl8z-iI/AAAAAAAACVc/l4f0dZFznZYHSR6dtYv9Iv2avVq7jMUOQCLcB/s400/fullsizeoutput_423.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">And then there's </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FinelyFinishedbbg023"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Finely Finished</b></span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, keeping me busy with clients' lovely stitching.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #365899; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-weight: bold; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eDO7QjytGjU/V_kFTIbxWzI/AAAAAAAACVw/GDO3rxop2s0FFnvmAG_93ZWNStuHO3exQCEw/s1600/Jiggity%2BJig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eDO7QjytGjU/V_kFTIbxWzI/AAAAAAAACVw/GDO3rxop2s0FFnvmAG_93ZWNStuHO3exQCEw/s400/Jiggity%2BJig.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wvjd5xxQEvI/V_kL4zoycaI/AAAAAAAACWA/86PSVTdJPBw-bzQ9Fk6rPlr9orC_DxJkQCLcB/s1600/LK%2BBag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wvjd5xxQEvI/V_kL4zoycaI/AAAAAAAACWA/86PSVTdJPBw-bzQ9Fk6rPlr9orC_DxJkQCLcB/s400/LK%2BBag.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Apparently, I need to post more often. Blogger isn't allowing me to add additional photos. I'll be back soon. In the mean time. . .</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>What is your favorite season?</b></span></div>
Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-25960369504507910112016-09-10T21:21:00.000-05:002016-09-10T21:21:44.227-05:00Do I find you. . .S<span style="font-size: large;">till blogging? Or have you gone to Instagram, Facebook and the many other social media sites? Have we become so busy there's no time to blog, let alone read blogs? I'm certainly guilty of not posting. I want to and think of it often. But do I? No. Am I that busy? No, at least not every day of the week. And last time I looked, there were still seven days in a week.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">This summer I was on the beach of Gulf Shores, AL. Great friends, great food and relaxing time to say the least.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zcxrf0CpP0M/V9S4LMBA1DI/AAAAAAAACUI/fVm7LUF2jg8i2GKsOxutHEG8CQ5N2uYlACLcB/s1600/IMG_4481.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zcxrf0CpP0M/V9S4LMBA1DI/AAAAAAAACUI/fVm7LUF2jg8i2GKsOxutHEG8CQ5N2uYlACLcB/s400/IMG_4481.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gwyIs0YXyFQ/V9S4wfULTII/AAAAAAAACUM/F2VLQO23hBEFjSxQn1ktMPKJMTqEbbX8wCLcB/s1600/IMG_4471.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gwyIs0YXyFQ/V9S4wfULTII/AAAAAAAACUM/F2VLQO23hBEFjSxQn1ktMPKJMTqEbbX8wCLcB/s400/IMG_4471.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2eg7maDUoaw/V9S5FXBU6qI/AAAAAAAACUQ/rbL-c9sL8W4sX4dlWCoYjSLAFitdmGn-wCLcB/s1600/IMG_4487.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2eg7maDUoaw/V9S5FXBU6qI/AAAAAAAACUQ/rbL-c9sL8W4sX4dlWCoYjSLAFitdmGn-wCLcB/s400/IMG_4487.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Another concert to see Sir Paul. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gvGPLhL-GHQ/V9S5wUuZ0XI/AAAAAAAACUY/slAo_O_q6vERtUdbL6tD8AU7LrA9ZuqMQCLcB/s1600/IMG_4194.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gvGPLhL-GHQ/V9S5wUuZ0XI/AAAAAAAACUY/slAo_O_q6vERtUdbL6tD8AU7LrA9ZuqMQCLcB/s400/IMG_4194.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Of course, there was time with these two. One now a senior and one in eighth grade.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-07IyD2K7BF4/V9S6YA4qnHI/AAAAAAAACUg/RlLPs4VwT_cyioxlG5ag9kQmwW-ahAjxACLcB/s1600/IMG_4674.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-07IyD2K7BF4/V9S6YA4qnHI/AAAAAAAACUg/RlLPs4VwT_cyioxlG5ag9kQmwW-ahAjxACLcB/s400/IMG_4674.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">A little time in the garden.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q58bHBbzrLY/V9S68ec2mqI/AAAAAAAACUo/rKC-ObW0AoweTAPeEvtDfOryJclsWRRVwCLcB/s1600/IMG_4712.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q58bHBbzrLY/V9S68ec2mqI/AAAAAAAACUo/rKC-ObW0AoweTAPeEvtDfOryJclsWRRVwCLcB/s400/IMG_4712.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">And then there's <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FinelyFinishedbbg023/">Finely Finished</a>. </b> Finishing the needlework of fellow stitchers has not only become a passion, but a blessing too.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gyVZkLwyFw4/V9S9mSoMUFI/AAAAAAAACU8/AUPDlv78zkMPmgDOoIEVsFX6jBEhhgNGQCLcB/s1600/OnBeachTime.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gyVZkLwyFw4/V9S9mSoMUFI/AAAAAAAACU8/AUPDlv78zkMPmgDOoIEVsFX6jBEhhgNGQCLcB/s400/OnBeachTime.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SVh9UqOVyU4/V9S9uFb_XEI/AAAAAAAACVA/pkPnISn9NuoUof0Cfnuh8HII69DJlDtYQCLcB/s1600/Quaker%2Bstrawberry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SVh9UqOVyU4/V9S9uFb_XEI/AAAAAAAACVA/pkPnISn9NuoUof0Cfnuh8HII69DJlDtYQCLcB/s400/Quaker%2Bstrawberry.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">That's where I've been, now tell me. . .</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Where will I find you?</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-20906355410517879992016-02-03T12:29:00.000-06:002016-02-03T12:29:41.565-06:00Love. . .<span style="font-size: large;">"A feeling of warm personal attachment or deep affection, as for a parent, child, or friend"---as described in the dictionary. Yet, today it seems we describe so many things by the word love. Love that food, book, photo, you name it, we love it. Hopefully, that does not take away from the personal human connections.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;">For me, I love so many things...family, friends, cross stitching, finish work, gardening, my home. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Monday coffee. . .</b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-arOTIyQYkeA/VrI-NzSgdoI/AAAAAAAACTA/WhfKUih18V4/s1600/IMG_3380.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-arOTIyQYkeA/VrI-NzSgdoI/AAAAAAAACTA/WhfKUih18V4/s320/IMG_3380.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Wine. . .</b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vqk-dCdUjyE/VrI-zobATmI/AAAAAAAACTI/7VGRlVg9KPU/s1600/IMG_3365.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vqk-dCdUjyE/VrI-zobATmI/AAAAAAAACTI/7VGRlVg9KPU/s320/IMG_3365.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>These two. . .</b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hCWzDtXRDHU/VrI_Xu10-DI/AAAAAAAACTM/T9VcPhcMDww/s1600/DSCN7411.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hCWzDtXRDHU/VrI_Xu10-DI/AAAAAAAACTM/T9VcPhcMDww/s320/DSCN7411.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Finishing your stitching. . .</b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZlagvlrLmuo/VrJBmSpQpsI/AAAAAAAACTk/SSOcZMCxVZo/s1600/Finished%2B02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZlagvlrLmuo/VrJBmSpQpsI/AAAAAAAACTk/SSOcZMCxVZo/s320/Finished%2B02.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TWuP_OF6IJE/VrJBrZpHtUI/AAAAAAAACTo/sBTIXCgUHME/s1600/Valentines%2BDay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TWuP_OF6IJE/VrJBrZpHtUI/AAAAAAAACTo/sBTIXCgUHME/s320/Valentines%2BDay.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>There's more to be sure, and at the top of the list would be life! Tell me what do you love?</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-66012954325017720302016-01-03T10:36:00.000-06:002016-01-03T10:36:00.593-06:00Stitching. . .<span style="font-size: large;">Again! You, my friends and clients, with all of your lovely stitching passing through my studio, have inspired me to pick up needle and thread.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Thank you for that and a sincere thank you to all that entrusted me with finishing their work. The plan is...finish in the morning and stitch for myself in the evening. Please remind me of that if you see no stitching here on occasion.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Yes, you're seeing correctly...this piece "Eleanor Rigby" by Blackbird Designs was started in 2014 and just today finished. I hope never to take that long again. Threads get lost, patterns misplaced and just pure chaos arises.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Czww2nMErbo/VolNUdpWcPI/AAAAAAAACSw/BuQ2m9iigoI/s1600/IMG_3591.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Czww2nMErbo/VolNUdpWcPI/AAAAAAAACSw/BuQ2m9iigoI/s400/IMG_3591.jpg" width="300" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>What are you stitching in 2016?</b></span></div>
Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-42878117557242310612016-01-01T11:48:00.001-06:002016-01-01T11:48:34.515-06:00A New Year. . .<span style="font-size: large;">Begins and we say goodbye to 2015. After the last few months, the word "happy" isn't an easy word for me. Although the happy memories do outweigh the sad. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">There are no resolutions for 2016--everyday is a new day and it's up to us to choose happy or sad. Today my greeting to you is. . . </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> <i>A Joyful New Year!</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Os65MPRzFo/VoatE7VAw2I/AAAAAAAACSg/KmRsSlDsS9g/s1600/new%2Byear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Os65MPRzFo/VoatE7VAw2I/AAAAAAAACSg/KmRsSlDsS9g/s400/new%2Byear.jpg" width="276" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><b>Is that getting close to happy? </b><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-90065096358024796232015-12-29T11:38:00.000-06:002015-12-29T11:38:41.282-06:00Needle and thread. . .<span style="font-size: large;">Have been passions of mine as far back as I can remember. Starting with embroidering pillow cases under the shade trees. Yes, I was quite young and there was no air conditioning. From there, high school economics introduced me to sewing machines. It was so exciting to purchase my very own Singer for $88. That purchase came with additional sewing lessons as well as the responsibility of making monthly payments. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Then came counted cross stitch...wish I could remember how that interest evolved. I'm not even certain how finishing for others came about? Never the less, the good fortune of having clients throughout the country, has brought hours of pleasure here. Thank you all for entrusting me with your lovely stitching.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">With Christmas behin</span><span style="font-size: large;">d us, I will be sharing some of the finishing b</span><span style="font-size: large;">y <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FinelyFinishedbbg023/"><i><b>Finely Finished</b></i></a>.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> So many were Christmas gifts and were to be kept secret until after gifting.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"> Sewing "needfuls" seemed to be popular with many stitchers.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xWIDavRdP2o/VoG_4Ivju8I/AAAAAAAACRo/hI9atO_AIhw/s1600/IMG_2826.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xWIDavRdP2o/VoG_4Ivju8I/AAAAAAAACRo/hI9atO_AIhw/s400/IMG_2826.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6GT-N-cPz_U/VoHAITQK6dI/AAAAAAAACR0/KCHCXmoChAk/s1600/IMG_3323.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6GT-N-cPz_U/VoHAITQK6dI/AAAAAAAACR0/KCHCXmoChAk/s400/IMG_3323.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VYLPSJ6ZVwU/VoHAIXe1VSI/AAAAAAAACRw/ohCjGyaYbCY/s1600/IMG_3325.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VYLPSJ6ZVwU/VoHAIXe1VSI/AAAAAAAACRw/ohCjGyaYbCY/s400/IMG_3325.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e6W5Ehh0s7k/VoHAKipDHkI/AAAAAAAACSM/fBAnjFN_yq0/s1600/IMG_3326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e6W5Ehh0s7k/VoHAKipDHkI/AAAAAAAACSM/fBAnjFN_yq0/s400/IMG_3326.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rpTMqM4YIHc/VoHAKqMvPbI/AAAAAAAACSI/jO4HJiAqZ_U/s1600/IMG_3329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rpTMqM4YIHc/VoHAKqMvPbI/AAAAAAAACSI/jO4HJiAqZ_U/s400/IMG_3329.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It's always good to hear from you...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Do you remember how you came to love needlework?</b></span>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-4089245541248152052015-12-21T12:25:00.000-06:002015-12-21T12:25:16.859-06:00Before Christmas. . .<span style="font-size: large;">Many of us attend the mandatory Christmas programs, pageants and plays. Who doesn't love seeing their child in one? We all tend to go a little silly when "our" child has a part and often have stories that remain with us through out the years.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I remember once my daughter was completely left out until the last minute. The teachers asked her if she would want to be an angel and her reply was---"Well I am one, so yes!" And some of the outfits I dressed my son in--the most garish plaid slacks ever. What was I thinking?</span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">And before you know it, you're attending programs that your grands are in. I'll never forget when the youngest was 3 and Papa walks to the stage for photos and she very loudly says, "Hi Papa!"--what a treat that was.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">This year the thought came to me there won't be many more to attend. This little lady is now in junior high. Of course every song sung, I could hear her voice.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K0Gc5NhlbFE/VngxabMAKTI/AAAAAAAACQw/dmz2H5xPM_s/s1600/IMG_3500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K0Gc5NhlbFE/VngxabMAKTI/AAAAAAAACQw/dmz2H5xPM_s/s400/IMG_3500.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">If you have not seen the stage performance of a Christmas Carol, do so. There is no comparison between it and the movie.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2R6Gif0ebEI/VngzU5DdWNI/AAAAAAAACRE/WhT2S3scXpk/s1600/rep.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2R6Gif0ebEI/VngzU5DdWNI/AAAAAAAACRE/WhT2S3scXpk/s320/rep.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_WYiF_ufV2Y/Vngy-qNSwcI/AAAAAAAACQ8/yRGHd4zKHwE/s1600/christmas%2Bcarol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_WYiF_ufV2Y/Vngy-qNSwcI/AAAAAAAACQ8/yRGHd4zKHwE/s320/christmas%2Bcarol.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Another first. . .being able to attend an open house where there were carolers. Yes, one was a grand.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8EicH7hJfvI/Vng0ZUIrl-I/AAAAAAAACRQ/yu54FJVzoFU/s1600/IMG_3522.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8EicH7hJfvI/Vng0ZUIrl-I/AAAAAAAACRQ/yu54FJVzoFU/s400/IMG_3522.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Finally, the annual photo with the tree!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gjTnjNvUck4/Vng07RHg9lI/AAAAAAAACRY/7gG9xqA0rlk/s1600/IMG_3527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gjTnjNvUck4/Vng07RHg9lI/AAAAAAAACRY/7gG9xqA0rlk/s400/IMG_3527.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>I'm ready, how about you?</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-37249092391094538722015-12-13T08:07:00.000-06:002015-12-13T08:07:58.475-06:00Time. . .<span style="font-size: large;">"It Takes no more time to see the good side of life than to see the bad." </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UXzVT6Ym28U/Vm11qijnnzI/AAAAAAAACOQ/fHpaGZh2wtw/s1600/IMG_3392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UXzVT6Ym28U/Vm11qijnnzI/AAAAAAAACOQ/fHpaGZh2wtw/s320/IMG_3392.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> This I know to be true. Actually, I've always tried to see the good, but now I try to live and believe it! Looking back on the past </span><span style="font-size: large;">few years change raised it's ugly head, leaving me with two choices--continue to live a life of good or bad. I choose good.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">The loss of my husband was tragic, yet I have a heart full of good memories. Life goes on and he would want that for me. Old friends have fallen away, new have arrived. Things, and i do mean things, break; they can be repaired or replaced. Nights are long and lonely at times; read a book, listen to music, dance in the moonlight. One need not look far to see and do good. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Since I've been away from blogging for some time, let me share a few photos of the good.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Grandgirls</b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xTbBDBQAXfc/Vm12GGkJ1nI/AAAAAAAACOY/Qy9mrZs4VXE/s1600/IMG_2486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xTbBDBQAXfc/Vm12GGkJ1nI/AAAAAAAACOY/Qy9mrZs4VXE/s320/IMG_2486.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-imLagzNtaTc/Vm12Vr22-WI/AAAAAAAACOg/vJvCRFKHw38/s1600/IMG_2933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-imLagzNtaTc/Vm12Vr22-WI/AAAAAAAACOg/vJvCRFKHw38/s320/IMG_2933.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Roadtrips with Friends</b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p_mr2kE-5k8/Vm13DuRWccI/AAAAAAAACPU/pyhFt4zhk_0/s1600/IMG_2869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p_mr2kE-5k8/Vm13DuRWccI/AAAAAAAACPU/pyhFt4zhk_0/s320/IMG_2869.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4h-Agu2W0aA/Vm135H_HwqI/AAAAAAAACP8/hHwScAOMuvA/s1600/IMG_3237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4h-Agu2W0aA/Vm135H_HwqI/AAAAAAAACP8/hHwScAOMuvA/s320/IMG_3237.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yEFttG6C4UE/Vm1341R9K7I/AAAAAAAACP4/uwNmacUQVo4/s1600/IMG_3240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yEFttG6C4UE/Vm1341R9K7I/AAAAAAAACP4/uwNmacUQVo4/s320/IMG_3240.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Gardening</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c8ZFJhGocvk/Vm15SJRnV1I/AAAAAAAACQQ/4kmROKpDwCM/s1600/IMG_2453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c8ZFJhGocvk/Vm15SJRnV1I/AAAAAAAACQQ/4kmROKpDwCM/s320/IMG_2453.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H6kfAp7kQ5Q/Vm15eevYZ8I/AAAAAAAACQY/ufvpXw0HPR0/s1600/IMG_2541.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H6kfAp7kQ5Q/Vm15eevYZ8I/AAAAAAAACQY/ufvpXw0HPR0/s320/IMG_2541.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UOAhV_jKLEo/Vm15qwH79mI/AAAAAAAACQg/-F2gbBg5Mbk/s1600/IMG_2640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UOAhV_jKLEo/Vm15qwH79mI/AAAAAAAACQg/-F2gbBg5Mbk/s320/IMG_2640.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">So much good. . .</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">How about you, do you think about the "good"?</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-37728646690907778342015-12-01T11:55:00.000-06:002015-12-01T11:55:42.462-06:00Traditions. . .<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">New and old this year. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Beginning with the grand, once again, spending the night on Thanksgiving to help fluff the tree. Who knew, at 17, this would still be our tradition? Not being ready to go back to the "normal" tree, we chose a white one. She assures me it will be "magnificent" once complete. Does it matter? No, having her continue the tradition is what counts.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5T4TgOmhX8U/Vlyjw82L1_I/AAAAAAAACNk/-HhklfQYlDo/s1600/IMG_3358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5T4TgOmhX8U/Vlyjw82L1_I/AAAAAAAACNk/-HhklfQYlDo/s400/IMG_3358.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">And for the new, a friend and myself took advantage of shop small business Saturday. A wonderful little shop named "The Purple Turnip"--new to me. What's not to love about the name and the beauty of an old building?!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-teV1U2UfclI/VlymCuGrqlI/AAAAAAAACNw/xEForo14kDc/s1600/IMG_3361.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-teV1U2UfclI/VlymCuGrqlI/AAAAAAAACNw/xEForo14kDc/s400/IMG_3361.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7kuxKKAM3_E/VlymCh0NvSI/AAAAAAAACN8/hr7upXZs7Ms/s1600/IMG_3360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7kuxKKAM3_E/VlymCh0NvSI/AAAAAAAACN8/hr7upXZs7Ms/s400/IMG_3360.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /><br /><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Chatting over a glass of wine, we decided this new tradition would definitely be one to continue!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bu-Vj2px830/VlynEn6SL8I/AAAAAAAACOA/PVNBuldVjlE/s1600/IMG_3365.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bu-Vj2px830/VlynEn6SL8I/AAAAAAAACOA/PVNBuldVjlE/s400/IMG_3365.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Do you continue old traditions, start new ones, or both?</b></span><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-87819319217059166152015-11-25T17:00:00.000-06:002015-11-25T17:01:32.614-06:00May your heart be glad. . .<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bSUVG_hnQXY/VlY9CxZjGFI/AAAAAAAACNU/sx3uy7Xp25I/s1600/vintage-thanksgiving-turkey-with-hay1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bSUVG_hnQXY/VlY9CxZjGFI/AAAAAAAACNU/sx3uy7Xp25I/s640/vintage-thanksgiving-turkey-with-hay1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-23212905515053369202015-11-22T13:59:00.001-06:002015-11-22T13:59:23.607-06:00Feeling. . .<span style="font-size: large;">Peaceful and grateful today. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">My son turned 47 at 4:23 am today. How is it he is older than me? I sure don't feel old enough to have a child of that age. Well, perhaps, my body feels it after working in the gardens for 2 hours.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">With the tragic world events happening more and more often, one needs to remember to pray for peace and be grateful for all they have. Even, carving out this new life, there is so much good and choosing to be appreciative warms my heart. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Guess I'm feeling melancholy, yet peace, grace and kindness--on my mind.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xe30wMzFxwM/VlIcxrANbsI/AAAAAAAACM8/uaw7AsXDhdo/s1600/IMG_2465.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xe30wMzFxwM/VlIcxrANbsI/AAAAAAAACM8/uaw7AsXDhdo/s400/IMG_2465.jpg" width="300" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>What word are you "feeling" today?</b></span>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-89506998958826036632015-11-18T09:52:00.000-06:002015-11-18T09:52:57.926-06:00Yes...<span style="font-size: large;">Change is inevitable, this I know to be true. A little less than a year ago, I spoke of the change in my life. And since then, there has been much. Sadly, my husband died (Don't be afraid to use that word.) on July 7 of this year. A tragic fall ended our struggle with dementia. Life will never be the same; however, I am happy to have had over 32 years with a kind, loving man. I owe it to his legacy to continue the kindness he shared with many and live life to the fullest. He did and would want me to go out and live.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">On the advice of a good friend, I hope to get back into blogging. I hope to share my life as a caregiver, grandmother, stitcher and finisher. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FinelyFinishedbbg023/"><b>Finely Finished</b> </a> is growing along with the grands, one of which is driving. Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram, along with other social media, seem to have taken over blogging for many. Let's slow down and share.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Opening myself here, I welcome any comments or questions. Don't be afraid to ask.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Be happy, life changes quickly.</b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V0WrXlkmMhI/VkycF0ruOiI/AAAAAAAACMo/TKTF7ZT8QOY/s1600/IMG_0698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V0WrXlkmMhI/VkycF0ruOiI/AAAAAAAACMo/TKTF7ZT8QOY/s400/IMG_0698.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">How do you live with change?</span></b><br />
<br />
<br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-43338446608058456682015-03-04T20:18:00.000-06:002015-03-04T20:18:57.523-06:00Where does it go...Days, months and years? <br />
<br />
Just yesterday this little gal was in the arms of her parents and a new joy in all of our lives. How did she turn 12 today?<br />
<br />
We are all proud of our families, as we should be. Yet, this little gal has captured much more of my attention. As her sister is in high school, I have the pleasure of spending more alone time with her. I'm amazed at her quick wit, creativeness and intelligence...so very proud of her. <br />
<br />
With a smile in my heart and a great big giggle, I will add she is a lot like me!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3bwykJ5YuyM/VPe8YZJR0UI/AAAAAAAACL4/t1qPN1Z0GKU/s1600/IMG_1976.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3bwykJ5YuyM/VPe8YZJR0UI/AAAAAAAACL4/t1qPN1Z0GKU/s1600/IMG_1976.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Happy Birthday...love you to the moon! </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-72978207176626130292015-02-26T13:58:00.000-06:002015-02-26T13:58:14.587-06:00In Stitches...Was said to mean laughing so hard it's painful. Not certain if that's still true today, however February has been filled with stitching and finishing with a little pain thrown in. A busy month with barely enough days to complete everything before Nashville market. <br />
<br />
Perhaps the painful part, would be the times a needle pricked my fingers. I so need to learn to use that thimble again! Thimbles just seem so cumbersome and slow me down. There's no time to slow down!<br />
<br />
Just yesterday, my sister asked if I ever took the time to work on my own projects. Yes, I do...doesn't a small piece count?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kSYxJ29Vdcw/VO9yQDCxsZI/AAAAAAAACLE/VLy1DIVmzqI/s1600/IMG_2394.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kSYxJ29Vdcw/VO9yQDCxsZI/AAAAAAAACLE/VLy1DIVmzqI/s1600/IMG_2394.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/FinelyFinishedbbg023" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Finely Finished</a><b style="font-style: italic;"> </b>has been keeping me in stitches this month.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AqOQ79ARz8w/VO8mgILfioI/AAAAAAAACHc/oJcjVlzr6OU/s1600/DSCN7391.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AqOQ79ARz8w/VO8mgILfioI/AAAAAAAACHc/oJcjVlzr6OU/s1600/DSCN7391.JPG" height="301" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rC4rrsTBpFY/VO8mi0yXxeI/AAAAAAAACH0/e1Snh9xNiTw/s1600/DSCN7409.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rC4rrsTBpFY/VO8mi0yXxeI/AAAAAAAACH0/e1Snh9xNiTw/s1600/DSCN7409.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hvOCQszBdpU/VO8mkHHIDwI/AAAAAAAACH8/WXFhAUshS4E/s1600/DSCN7417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hvOCQszBdpU/VO8mkHHIDwI/AAAAAAAACH8/WXFhAUshS4E/s1600/DSCN7417.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z2ZUDNzTmdI/VO8motgynYI/AAAAAAAACIs/5-GQ7fz-E2s/s1600/DSCN7421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z2ZUDNzTmdI/VO8motgynYI/AAAAAAAACIs/5-GQ7fz-E2s/s1600/DSCN7421.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
Hope to take more time next month to get back into blogging on a regular basis. This silly post is not letting me go back and add design information on each picture?! So much to relearn! Before I hit that publish button, I'd like to share my new favorite nail color..."In Stitches"...appropriate don't you think?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-47IlK9tWCCY/VO9yXgk1RcI/AAAAAAAACLM/pKUZG5I8yjI/s1600/IMG_2378.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-47IlK9tWCCY/VO9yXgk1RcI/AAAAAAAACLM/pKUZG5I8yjI/s1600/IMG_2378.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>What's keeping you in stitches these days?</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Be well my friends...your comments are always appreciated.<br />
<br />
<br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-63307450822736697032015-01-23T23:53:00.000-06:002015-01-23T23:53:21.341-06:00Too attached...To my "stuff" or at least that's what the oldest grand accuses me of. While she is a very smart young lady, she is a 16 year old and can't possibly understand the value of stuff. And besides, I prefer the word treasures. <br />
<br />
Many years have gone into finding, saving and using my treasures. The real coup is in finding bargains, and yes, I have been known to dive into a dumpster! It's amazing to me what others discard. On occasion it hits me, I have too much stuff (I mean too many treasures) and decide to purge. And what happens? It had a purpose all along.<br />
<br />
For example an old frame. It had been in the basement forever until one day a sampler fit into it perfectly. And yesterday, a thought hit me...maybe I could use it for another one of my favorite pieces. Yes! This is why I'm "attached to my stuff"...it fit perfectly!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VZBnYrOjPbw/VMMyOd9ozwI/AAAAAAAACE8/YsnIQYD_mb0/s1600/DSCN7397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VZBnYrOjPbw/VMMyOd9ozwI/AAAAAAAACE8/YsnIQYD_mb0/s1600/DSCN7397.JPG" height="315" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>How about you, are you attached to your stuff?</b></div>
Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-62119600140383993232015-01-15T14:56:00.000-06:002015-01-15T14:56:10.886-06:00"I will honor Christmas...in my heart and try to keep it all the year." Wonderful thought for every year.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GXxai1vL_jw/VLf5AZp6TKI/AAAAAAAACEE/u7cFYaim1Vg/s1600/IMG_2326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GXxai1vL_jw/VLf5AZp6TKI/AAAAAAAACEE/u7cFYaim1Vg/s1600/IMG_2326.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This quote has so many possibilities and I suppose could be interpreted in many ways. As for myself and the Jewel, we are on the lookout all year for each other's Christmas gifts. And as the year comes to an end, usually there's a theme. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M3QUB5ZRGVE/VLf7WKHYvMI/AAAAAAAACEQ/xtZdYkN48wI/s1600/IMG_2317.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M3QUB5ZRGVE/VLf7WKHYvMI/AAAAAAAACEQ/xtZdYkN48wI/s1600/IMG_2317.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
As this is the best part of Christmas for myself, I sadly forget about taking pictures. Trust me, the tray and contents, along with the box, were brimming with wonderfulness! And yes, I still have my flip flops on. If you believe in Christmas, you can believe you're on a beach.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aKQHYvU-0YQ/VLf7_e7pgUI/AAAAAAAACEY/yOf3KuiMGLM/s1600/me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aKQHYvU-0YQ/VLf7_e7pgUI/AAAAAAAACEY/yOf3KuiMGLM/s1600/me.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Here's a bit of my thought process...something she taught me. Finding mementos on outings throughout the year. Some right under each other's noses. Every little piece tells a story.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wWg-kYtMOeM/VLf8uSk9LoI/AAAAAAAACEg/K-32hul6EMQ/s1600/tray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wWg-kYtMOeM/VLf8uSk9LoI/AAAAAAAACEg/K-32hul6EMQ/s1600/tray.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Books with somewhat of a theme.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sjVTCNWW-pw/VLf_x0YbZhI/AAAAAAAACEs/1p2ecifFElo/s1600/books.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sjVTCNWW-pw/VLf_x0YbZhI/AAAAAAAACEs/1p2ecifFElo/s1600/books.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sjVTCNWW-pw/VLf_x0YbZhI/AAAAAAAACEs/1p2ecifFElo/s1600/books.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><br /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
More than gifts, friendships, or relationships of any kind, are to be honored and kept all year.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>How about you, have you thought about this quote?</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3686802198497889009%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D6211960014038399323&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F2.bp.blogspot.com%252F-wWg-kYtMOeM%252FVLf8uSk9LoI%252FAAAAAAAACEg%252FK-32hul6EMQ%252Fs1600%252Ftray.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1516px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3686802198497889009%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D6211960014038399323&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F2.bp.blogspot.com%252F-wWg-kYtMOeM%252FVLf8uSk9LoI%252FAAAAAAAACEg%252FK-32hul6EMQ%252Fs1600%252Ftray.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1516px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-24468753839196776312015-01-10T11:31:00.002-06:002015-01-10T11:46:44.272-06:00Seriously...Am I in need of therapy? While cleaning my studio, I peeked into the basket of "starts"...little did I know there were so many!<br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong, I'm not feeling any guilt. After all, "keeps me out of the bars and off the streets" to quote a family member. There really isn't a lot of money involved here...just a lot of stitching. Stitching, gardening, reading and now finish work are passions. Just need to nurture the passions.<br />
<br />
The goal this year is to work on clients' finish work during the day and stitch during the evening. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QINxra0A9oQ/VLFeLqe50TI/AAAAAAAACDA/mc49yWJFlAM/s1600/IMG_2315.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QINxra0A9oQ/VLFeLqe50TI/AAAAAAAACDA/mc49yWJFlAM/s1600/IMG_2315.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
First 2015 <b>"Finely Finished" </b>finishes shipped.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uOtXXVuX430/VLFe7fdN-BI/AAAAAAAACDM/ao5-OElau7s/s1600/DSCN7379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uOtXXVuX430/VLFe7fdN-BI/AAAAAAAACDM/ao5-OElau7s/s1600/DSCN7379.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OGkfmDHo26M/VLFe7LCFokI/AAAAAAAACDE/XzGunQg1_gk/s1600/DSCN7343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OGkfmDHo26M/VLFe7LCFokI/AAAAAAAACDE/XzGunQg1_gk/s1600/DSCN7343.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Seriously, what are your passions?</b></div>
Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-55523981452806292682015-01-07T09:21:00.001-06:002015-01-07T09:21:43.055-06:00Packing it...All away saddens me a little this year. 2014 was a true year of change and I'm certain 2015 will be also. Perhaps, the key to any change is acceptance and finding joy in the little things. Better yet, searching out and doing what makes you happy!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZCWDTYovKsw/VK1K03RetuI/AAAAAAAACCc/oEX774ev0K4/s1600/IMG_2310.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZCWDTYovKsw/VK1K03RetuI/AAAAAAAACCc/oEX774ev0K4/s1600/IMG_2310.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Not all Christmas will be packed...it is still winter after all. I kind of "slide" from one holiday into another. As this piece is usually out of doors, it was so much fun to repurpose it for indoors.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J9LfGx6JzE8/VK1Ld2gJPSI/AAAAAAAACCk/CuxVGOyUKBE/s1600/DSCN7375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J9LfGx6JzE8/VK1Ld2gJPSI/AAAAAAAACCk/CuxVGOyUKBE/s1600/DSCN7375.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This photo will be on my computer screen, reminding me that there is always good in change!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RNE_-cLxgI8/VK1L2rOa1VI/AAAAAAAACCs/k7iSkc73fMc/s1600/DSCN7326.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RNE_-cLxgI8/VK1L2rOa1VI/AAAAAAAACCs/k7iSkc73fMc/s1600/DSCN7326.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Packing away and remembering the good in 2015. How about you?</b></div>
<br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-64464949845205419062014-12-31T17:17:00.000-06:002014-12-31T17:19:44.676-06:00Wishes for the New Year... Wasn't it just yesterday that we were ringing in 2012? <br />
<br />
They say time flies when you're having fun. That may be true, however, time flies no matter how you're spending your days...good or bad.<br />
<br />
The last two years have been somewhat a blur. No complaints, just reality. In this household we have learned to make the most of each day. When the days are good we enjoy them and when they are bad, we get through them. Hopefully, learning as we go.<br />
<br />
Once again, there will be no resolutions. How about wishes? Such as...stitching more, reading more, walking more and more time with loved ones. Simple enough but don't the little wishes bring contentment? And one large wish...to educate the public on how to connect with someone suffering from dementia. <br />
<br />
So much more to be said...perhaps, better left for another day. For now I will leave you with "wishes" for a Happy New Year!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EhAtSUigVYQ/VKSAaEGTTsI/AAAAAAAACCM/_ekXOeR_4lY/s1600/IMG_2300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EhAtSUigVYQ/VKSAaEGTTsI/AAAAAAAACCM/_ekXOeR_4lY/s1600/IMG_2300.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>What are your wishes for 2015?</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-71038387685375533152014-12-24T12:09:00.001-06:002014-12-24T12:12:45.118-06:00Christmas finishing...Is all but finished for this year. I am so pleased with the response to <b>"Finely Finished" </b>and want to say a big thank you for all of you who have entrusted me with your beautiful stitching. Since it's true inception in July, <b>Finely Finished </b>has kept me busy with rewarding work.<br />
<br />
Hopefully, in the next year, I will become more organized...blog more and stitch more for myself. Who knows what will be posted? Hope you will come by and see. <br />
<br />
I will also encourage my clients to include the designer and pattern names of their work. <br />
<br />
Here's a few Christmas finishes stitched by you....<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-prhkiw_RBBA/VJb_ODm3eqI/AAAAAAAAB-8/oOIV961g6OY/s1600/DSCN7223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-prhkiw_RBBA/VJb_ODm3eqI/AAAAAAAAB-8/oOIV961g6OY/s1600/DSCN7223.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UQznItG75gk/VJb_mLl963I/AAAAAAAAB_s/lKB2WOP6cxs/s1600/DSCN7110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UQznItG75gk/VJb_mLl963I/AAAAAAAAB_s/lKB2WOP6cxs/s1600/DSCN7110.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3wgV8zUxa-s/VJb_pYxQToI/AAAAAAAAB_4/6g7ZGCHtP4k/s1600/DSCN7113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3wgV8zUxa-s/VJb_pYxQToI/AAAAAAAAB_4/6g7ZGCHtP4k/s1600/DSCN7113.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MxQ81kApPxc/VJb_pMPY6jI/AAAAAAAAB_0/PVglhS8UdSo/s1600/DSCN7172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MxQ81kApPxc/VJb_pMPY6jI/AAAAAAAAB_0/PVglhS8UdSo/s1600/DSCN7172.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6GhKw0zkDc4/VJb_4XB8EvI/AAAAAAAACB0/wCWMvkPMJXA/s1600/DSCN7267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6GhKw0zkDc4/VJb_4XB8EvI/AAAAAAAACB0/wCWMvkPMJXA/s1600/DSCN7267.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GTUEudUm2TA/VJb_1YOFbdI/AAAAAAAACBc/FsCHjn4hKz4/s1600/DSCN7234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GTUEudUm2TA/VJb_1YOFbdI/AAAAAAAACBc/FsCHjn4hKz4/s1600/DSCN7234.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rB1h4kY2SCY/VJb_k7pimpI/AAAAAAAAB_k/Zyff_ZNvFH8/s1600/DSCN0060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rB1h4kY2SCY/VJb_k7pimpI/AAAAAAAAB_k/Zyff_ZNvFH8/s1600/DSCN0060.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Are you finished and ready for the festivities?</b>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-3177772479483487792014-12-20T14:06:00.000-06:002014-12-20T14:06:42.310-06:00Collections...Do you have them? Are you a collector? What do you collect?<br />
<br />
Going through out the house and decorating this past couple of weeks, I have taken stock of my collections. I'm not sure if I should have put so much thought into the idea of collecting. It feels a little excessive or is it hoarding? Most of what I have now, I love and will continue to keep. Goodness, I have certainly collected some odd things, which I shall not admit to anyone. <br />
<br />
A wise woman told me many years ago, if you love it and can use it in any of three different places, get it! Had I know this earlier, I would have passed on a few items. And some, I'm glad I did collect all those years ago. Brown crocks and wooden bowls have become so expensive, I just look and smile and say to myself, "I didn't pay that much."<br />
<br />
One thing for sure, collections are to be loved and cared for, not to mention, dusted. Let me share a bit of mine...<br />
<br />
<b>Redware and deer.</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_tW7m0tmoUQ/VJXSBBo7T1I/AAAAAAAAB98/cfwIeq5tia4/s1600/DSCN7312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_tW7m0tmoUQ/VJXSBBo7T1I/AAAAAAAAB98/cfwIeq5tia4/s1600/DSCN7312.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N0vrWMdd3SI/VJXSS3KWggI/AAAAAAAAB-E/K5iGmVsgM38/s1600/DSCN7295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N0vrWMdd3SI/VJXSS3KWggI/AAAAAAAAB-E/K5iGmVsgM38/s1600/DSCN7295.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Santas.</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1j6a4nIPtz8/VJXSjY58uOI/AAAAAAAAB-M/uC623nfcS_A/s1600/DSCN7300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1j6a4nIPtz8/VJXSjY58uOI/AAAAAAAAB-M/uC623nfcS_A/s1600/DSCN7300.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b>Early American pressed glass goblets.</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yC3Q6ak82ro/VJXS5tZsYdI/AAAAAAAAB-U/PnHCHrA3bzg/s1600/DSCN7296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yC3Q6ak82ro/VJXS5tZsYdI/AAAAAAAAB-U/PnHCHrA3bzg/s1600/DSCN7296.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b>Sheep...</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Ve0lNK3loI/VJXTIeEh1UI/AAAAAAAAB-c/1M39oluIlsg/s1600/DSCN7306.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Ve0lNK3loI/VJXTIeEh1UI/AAAAAAAAB-c/1M39oluIlsg/s1600/DSCN7306.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b>And more sheep.</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IaZ71IxxDZE/VJXTXGdhfdI/AAAAAAAAB-k/QLnclTVJhZU/s1600/DSCN7307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IaZ71IxxDZE/VJXTXGdhfdI/AAAAAAAAB-k/QLnclTVJhZU/s1600/DSCN7307.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b>Rubber duckies....the girls started this one!</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mpJam-z_Wts/VJXTpZaWL0I/AAAAAAAAB-s/doOw8Mc8aOI/s1600/DSCN7299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mpJam-z_Wts/VJXTpZaWL0I/AAAAAAAAB-s/doOw8Mc8aOI/s1600/DSCN7299.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></b></div>
<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
If you haven't guessed by now, I'm having a little fun today and being nostalgic. Some collections have been added to by friends and family, but most importantly...the real prizes were collected on outings with my husband. I'll share more another day.<br />
<br />
<b>What do you collect and will you share?</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3686802198497889009.post-56697251682516880502014-12-16T11:16:00.000-06:002014-12-18T13:09:21.337-06:00Change...Is inevitable in our lives. Whether we embrace it or fight it is up to us. <br />
<br />I've decided to embrace the changes in my life and thought I might share where I've been in the last year and a half. For the most part, time has been good to me and I'm enjoying life. <br />
<br />
My husband has dementia and I'm learning how to live with it. Please don't be sad...it's a new way of life. I keep educating myself, almost daily, on this disease and am able to deal with the challenges it brings. I can't imagine how it is for him. I do know my Montessori training has helped tremendously in day to day life. When we have good days, we enjoy them and when the days are bad, we get through them. I am going with the idea he understands everything I do and say. Who knows how true this is. I do know most people do not want to be around this illness as it can be uncomfortable. Please, what ever you do....please, treat a person with dementia as you would any other. We don't know what's going on in the mind.<br />
<br />
<b>When I'm happy he's happy...</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zqZ_T2IT3_0/VJBjbNrUnRI/AAAAAAAAB9c/LsSVLn5jSOs/s1600/DSCN7008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zqZ_T2IT3_0/VJBjbNrUnRI/AAAAAAAAB9c/LsSVLn5jSOs/s1600/DSCN7008.JPG" height="220" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
My granddaughters are now 16 and 12. Where did those years go? They are kind and loving and I have the good fortune to see them 3 days a week, as they need to be picked up from school. The 16 year old is in no hurry to get her license...lucky me;)<br />
<br />
<b>Both are sassy, creative, smart and fun...</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RTl2mqhYW5I/VJBkN556IrI/AAAAAAAAB9k/L73sJiGMi94/s1600/IMG_2277.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RTl2mqhYW5I/VJBkN556IrI/AAAAAAAAB9k/L73sJiGMi94/s1600/IMG_2277.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Being a full-time care giver does not mean life ends. One just finds new ways to feel useful and needed. I have chosen to start a small business finishing the work of other stitchers. <b>"Finely Finished" </b>has allowed me to<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>be creative, inspired and needed while being where I need to be, at home. <br />
<br />
From time to time I will be posting pictures of those finishes as well as life! Also, I will be playing around with the colors and lay out of this blog. Remember, I'm never quite happy with it. Feel free to add your comments, I want you to be able to see and read the posts.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<b>Finely Finished's work..</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sWHVApFR6_4/VJBmjeZe1-I/AAAAAAAAB9s/6La5i7w_oTA/s1600/DSCN7285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sWHVApFR6_4/VJBmjeZe1-I/AAAAAAAAB9s/6La5i7w_oTA/s1600/DSCN7285.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Now that's a little update on me...what have you been up to?</b><br />
<br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17488110701049680371noreply@blogger.com13