European Folk Art Stitching

As soon as I saw this design I knew it was one I would have to stitch . . .

I am really drawn to the European Folk Art style of Sylvia's design, but rather than make it up into a cushion I stretched the finished piece over a canvas (pictured below hanging in a collection with Lynette Anderson's Our Home applique and Rosalie Quinlan's Heartsong stitchery).

The blue linen is something I've been wanting to work with for a while and I really like the effect of the tone on tone stitchery.

I love the mandala-like central medallion . . .

and the openness of the chain stitched outer leaves.

I like the satin stitch circles (although there were a few moments when I thought they would never be done) and I really enjoyed working the chain stitch. I think it gives such a depth and interest to the  stitching.

This is a style of stitching that I will definitely use again! I'm thinking large cushions. And lots of colour . . .


Pattern: Stitchery Cushion
Designer: Sylvia Frazer
Publication: http://sylviastitch.blogspot.com.au/
Fabric: Dress linen
Threads: DMC 932

28 Years Married

It's been 28 years since we became Mr and Mrs. 

In that time we've added . . .
2 Kids
7 Dogs
2 Cats
17 Homes
Way too many cars

 

This guy's had my heart since the very first day.

I can honestly say that it's been a wild and crazy ride so far - some bits planned and some not so much.

He's funny and smart. He's gentle and strong. He's intuitive and creative. And he chose me.

I can't wait to see what the next chapters bring . . . and I love that I get to share every bit of them with the love of my life!

Who can ask for anything more?

Welcome 2014

Here's to  2014.

To hope and possibilities.
To learning something new.
To doing something useful.
To making a difference.

To love and laughter and friendship.

To good times, real connections and meaningful moments.

Happy New Year!