Spring finish

I finally got some time to press the Spring finish.  I didn't want to do a new post without including a picture of my last finish.  I finished it about a week and a half ago.  The colors in the piece are so pretty.  The fabric is really a greenish yellow.  It is the overdyed fabric that was recommended on the chart.  Its "Gardener's Blend" by R&R.  I purchased the fabric at the Inspired Needle in Lemont.  The chart is from Cricket Collection.

My new start is Flowery Alphabet by LaDiDa.  It is going rather quickly.  I am over half way finished.  I have the bottom alphabet and border done, I'm just working on the flowers at the top.

We have had so much rain in our area lately, it has been hard to keep up with the yard work.  We finally have a sunny day today. 

We had Mike's brother, sister in law and kids here yesterday for a cookout.  Mike ended up cooking on the grill in the garage, and we ate in the house, because of the rainy weather.  But everyone had a good time anyway.  The food was good.  I made cupcakes for dessert, which was a big hit with the kids.  We fixed brats & hamburgers on the grill, and then I made brocolli salad.  His brother brought coleslaw and chips.

It has been a really hectic month at work.  We have been busy getting everything ready for the summer reading program...  It starts June 1.  The theme this year is "A Midsummer Knight's Read".  So, the decorating has been fun.  One of our staff members has constructed a cardboard castle, to put in the children's room.  It's big enough for kids to go inside and peer out the windows.... 

Mike took off today to go with a buddy of his to Chicago to take some pictures.  They are both "into" photography. (In case you're wondering, I take my own photos for the blog...that is why they aren't the best...) I usually go along for the ride and scenery, but today I elected to stay home.  I did some chores around the house, and will most likely find some quiet stitching time.  The weather sounds like we are in for some heat and humidity today.  Temps are supposed to hit lower 90s. 

Happy Memorial Day everyone...  and Happy Stitching!

Book finished..

I was up early this morning and had time to finish the book I've been reading, The Body in the Gazebo by Katherine Hall Page.  I really enjoyed it. 

We had Board Meeting at the library last night, so it was a full evening.  We had refreshments also, since one of our Board members is leaving. 

I'm still stitching on "Spring", but haven't had much time lately to work on it.  I will post a progress picture next time.  I am on the letter N, so getting closer to the end...

I hope all of you had a pleasant Mother's Day.  My sister, brother-in-law, and niece were at our house for lunch that day.  They were down from Minnesota visiting my BIL's mother. 

So, my husband fixed some brats and hamburgers on the grill and I made potato salad and a baked bean casserole, finished with applesauce cake for dessert.  Everyone enjoyed the meal.

It's almost time to leave for work, so I'll say goodbye for now, and
Happy Stitching!
Melody

Mother's Day is almost here....

Joplin is busy posing in a bag...our cats entertain us doing the goofiest things.  We've always had at least one cat ever since we've been married, (27 years) and before that I grew up with cats at our house ever since I can remember.  I've become more partial to siamese in later years.  Our local newspaper has been asking for pictures to be submitted of cats, so of course I had to send a few.  It will be interesting to see if they choose to include any of them in their cat feature.

I've been stitching away on 'Spring' this evening.  It's an enjoyable stitch.  Lovely bright springy colors.

I know I'm a few days early, but found this pretty picture and wanted to wish all of you a Happy Mother's Day.

Happy Stitching!

Monday, monday....

Another week has flown by..  I'm still stitching on "Spring" by Cricket Collection.  The picture above leaves something to be desired, but you get an idea of where I'm at on the progress anyway. 

Yesterday we saw the sun, it was a refreshing change.  We've had a lot of cloudy, cool days with rain showers. 

We took a drive with a good friend of ours yesterday into the central part of Iowa.  While my hubby and our friend were out hiking around taking pictures, I enjoyed the sunshine and stitched.  I took some photos too, but am not as 'into' the photography as they are.  When I go with them on their jaunts, I always pack my cross stitch bag into the car.  I just didn't get as excited about photographing railroad bridges as they did I guess....ha!

I've been reading Brenda Gervais' blog.  I am enjoying seeing all the progress on the SAL of her eagle sampler.  What a great piece, and great design!  I haven't purchased the chart yet, but really do like it.

Visit Brenda's blog at With Thy Needle and Thread to read about the design and see the progress on the SAL on this beautiful piece.

Edgar is having a drawing for his blogoversary take a look at www.blacksheepsbitoftheweb.blogspot.com for the details. 

Thanks to all of you that take the time to read my posts and leave comments.  It is always a thrill to hear from each and every one of you.