Sunday, April 1, 2012

It's Giveaway Time!


Happy April to you all! Hope your month is off to a wonderful start... In honor of Spring and my 700+ (gulp!) followers I am having a giveaway. First of all, I just want to say how truly astonished I am that so many of you have decided to read my blog. I really mean that--I'm not just saying it to be humble or modest--I am honestly shocked. I am, in real life, a fairly quiet librarian, not a professional stitcher or finisher by any means. So your compliments on my little finishes mean more than you can imagine!

When I began blogging just over three years ago, it was purely with the intent of creating a permanent record of my cross stitched finishes. I didn't know a single one of you! Then the comments slowly began to trickle in until now I often receive dozens of comments on each new post... Amazing, truly amazing! And now, just look...in the short span of 39 months, I've met some of you in real life, email many of you like we were (and hopefully always will be) old and dear friends, and have been surrounded by a group of the most caring, creative, supportive people I can imagine. Thank you all--I feel truly blessed...

So, what did I come up with for my giveaway? Well, the Grand Prize is a group of cheery spring items that is sure to put a smile on just about anyone's face. Included are the darling "Peter and Peep" chart by With Thy Needle and Thread, three 9-inch square ornament cuts (32 African daisy jobelan, 28 ct. wood violet jobelan, and 28 ct. ice blue lugana), two fun spring fabrics in lime green gingham and purple and white polka-dot, a set of pink glass beads, a mauve colored Kelmscott "Hearts Afire" needle minder, some DMC pink variegated thread and ten pink bobbins, a sampler themed note pad, my new favorite candy (chocolate covered Raspberry Cremes) and a darling new Vera Bradley wristlet wallet in Very Berry Paisley (website description: "Measurements are approximately 4 x 6 inches with a 6 inch removable strap and a pretty silver accent ring. This bi-fold style with a magnetic closure opens up to feature 2 clear ID windows, 2 L-zip compartments, 3 card slots and a slip-in pocket." This giveaway is open to any of my followers.

Grand Prize Giveaway

The 2nd giveaway prize is to promote my love of Prairie Schooler designs. I found that I had two of each of these very old charts so I would love for them to go to someone who appreciates these classic patterns. This prize includes Book No. 10: A Prairie Christmas with all ten skeins of DMC floss needed to stitch the adorable ornaments, the 1996 PS Santa, a pack of blank greeting cards to fill with your own stitching, and, again, a package of those luscious Raspberry Cremes.
Giveaway #2: Prairie Schooler items

Finally, I have three spring charts that I hope will find new homes with three of my regular commenters only. You know who you are... If you would be interested in winning one of these charts, please let me know which ones (in order) you are interested in. This is just a way to thank three of the special readers who take the time to regularly say "hello." They're the people that I start to worry about when I don't see their names among my comments!! Thank you my most loyal commenters--you're the best!!

Giveaway #3: "Delivering Spring" by Homespun Elegance


Giveaway #4: "Garden" by Imaginating


Giveaway #5: "Bunny Gingham" by Twisted Threads

So, how can you enter? Simply leave a comment stating specifically which giveaways you would like to be entered for. Oh, and one other thing--to make it more interesting and fun for all of us... tell me either what you most enjoy about blogging or the name of your favorite chart--whether already stitched or waiting in the wings and why it is so meaningful to you. I will leave the giveaway open until Saturday April 14th at midnight EST.










As for my answer about what I enjoy about blogging... Well, I love the fact that we are all cheerleaders for each other. Whether it's praising a new finish, sending encouragement after a visit from the "frog" or losing our stitching "mojo," or lending a willing ear or a shoulder to lean on during times of stress, it is just wonderful how we all support each other. I love seeing different finishes--things that I would never stitch like HAEDs or fairies or dragons. Just because I don't stitch them doesn't mean I don't appreciate their beauty.


I'm sure some of you think: "Doesn't Carol ever stitch anything substantial?" Well, sometimes I do... but for me, what brings the most pleasure, are those little ornament sized creations that you typically see in my posts. I so appreciate your comments whether you are an all-sampler stitcher or someone who works on only one project all year long. We appreciate each others different tastes, creativity, patience, and skill, and in this world of so many negative stories--I'm so happy to be a part of a positive group like we have in the cross stitch blogging community. I also love seeing those of you who have been inspired to stitch something that I've shown here on my blog--I really feel honored that I've sparked your interest in a design that you may have overlooked just because of the way I've finished it into one of my little pillows.

Your blogs have made me laugh and made me cry. They've made me smile on days that started off a bit gloomy and they've made me pause to really think about different ideas from around the world. They've made me so impressed by the international bloggers who take the time and have the talent to blog in two languages. They've made me gasp in astonishment at an awe-inspiring finish and even made me a bit envious at piles of new stash or finishes that seem to stitch themselves. It's all part of blogging and I can't thank you enough for allowing me to be a part of this special cross stitch blogging neighborhood!

HAPPY EASTER!

Enjoy your week everyone--Happy Easter to all who celebrate! May you find some lovely chocolate bunnies in your baskets on Sunday! Bye for now...

152 comments:

Shirlee said...

What an absolutely delightful post! What I enjoy about blogging is exactly what you enjoy ... the fact that we are cheerleaders for each other even when our stitching tastes differ. I also enjoy the fact that I have met some very nice people who have become very good friends. I would not have met them if I hadn't started blogging. I would like to be entered in your Giveaway #2 please. Thank you for such wonderful offerings!

Kate said...

What delightful giveaways!!!!! I'd be thrilled to win any of them but oh boy, I have to choose .... hmmmm, #2 is my choice.

What I like most about blogging is the people I've met and am still meeting - it's wonderful!

Congrats on having so many followers but it's not a surprise that you have so many.

natalysneedle said...

I would love to be entered in your grand giveaway! Really, who wouldn't. Your blog always inspires me. I love blogging because I can connect with a community of stitchers that share my love of needlework. My favorite design is one that I stitched as a model titled Butterfly Garden by the Drawn Thread. It makes me smile everytime I see it. Thanks for the opportunity and congrats on 700+ followers.

Mavi. said...

Ayyy Carol!!!! que lio.... pero apuntamé. Mañana me vuelvo a leer todo con más detenimiento. Pero si, apuntame... gracias por todo.
Intentaré que el traductor te diga lo que pienso.
Besos.
Mavi.

Daisy said...

Carol:
Happy beginning of April. How nice that you let your followers about 716, many congratulations for that and for sharing with us your wonderful work.

Thanks for the opportunity in your drawing, I love your gifts would be an honor to be one of them.

happy Easter

JillMN said...

Oh Carol, you are so generous! My all time favorite pattern is "My Son" by Indigo Rose. I only have a son and stitched this for him several years ago. He means the world to me. The verse on it is very moving.

I would love to win the grand prize but I also love #5.

Thank you :)

Shelly said...

Please enter me in the grand prize giveaway! Thanks so much! Congrats on reaching 700 followers!

With blogging, I've met so many people who share my love of stitching. My friends and family aren't very crafty so it's nice to find people who know what a BAP and a WIP are!

Nancy M said...

Isn't the world of blogging pretty amazing for fellow cross stitchers? I really had no idea that there were so many of us out there. 5-6 years ago I would of thought I was all alone with my craft. I too have met some wonderful people online, that I have been lucky enough to meet in person. Your blog is very well written and your smalls are so adorable that I can understand why you have over 700 followers. You have a finish to show for each post. I am one of the BAP people, who like a small thrown in every once in awhile. I just wanted to comment, no need to enter me in the giveaway. I'm trying to lighten my stash as it is! LOL

Kate said...

What a wonderful way to start spring. I would love to be entered into your #2 drawing, I love PS and don't have but one of their charts. I love blogging because I have met some wonderful people. They inspire me to finish things, try new things and introduce me to new designers.

Laurie in Iowa said...

What a generous giveaway Carol. I'd love to be entered into your Grand Giveaway.
Just like you... I've loved meeting new stitchers and making new friends via my blog.

Elizabeth said...

Wow it looks like you are having a party at your house! I love blogging, just started about 18 months ago and having so much fun. I had no idea I would meet such wonderful ladies all over the U.S. and become friends with them! I think I like sharing my little accomplishments so much with everyone because they understand the work it took to finish one little piece of needlework and when you share it with everyone, its like they are clapping and cheering you on. I so enjoy seeing other stitchers pieces, brings a lot of joy to me. Happy Easter to you and your family!

Barbi said...

Oh Carol! What a beautiful series of giveaways you have put together. It doesn't surprise me at all that you have over 700 followers. Your blog is a joy to read! Your projects are always lovely! I worry when you don't blog! LOL
I blog because of people like you...who come and read and become friends. Who share a common interest..the circle of people around us in "real life" don't appreciate the stitching as another stitcher does. The choosing of the project, the perfect fabric and fibres and finishes. When it all comes together and a fellow stitcher says "WOW" then you know that you've got it right. Does that make any sense?
Please consider me for the #2 giveaway. You have me PS hooked :)

Mary @ Neat and Tidy said...

I would love to win Delivering Spring; I haven't seen this chart. Looking forward to more years of reading your blog!

Lisa V said...

Carol, your posts are always a pleasure to read and its blogs like yours that are the reason I enjoy blogging, I get such inspiration from seeing your lovely finishes, have been introduced to designs I probably wouldn't originally have considered but have fallen in love with after seeing them finished and I too just love the special friendship that stitchers have with one another.
OMG! I just love the Peter and Peep chart, fell for it as soon as I saw it so I would love to be entered in the draw to have a chance to win. I am also a huge PS fan and dont have the chart you are offering there, and lastly if I am considered one of your regulars (I hope so) then I would love to put my name down for the Homespun Elegance "Delivery Spring". Thanks for the wonderful opportunity Carol. Hugs.

Ellen said...

Wonderful giveaways! Please consider me for the grand giveaway, thank you for the chance!

I am not surprised that you have so many followers. I enjoy your blog. Your stitching and finishing are my inspirations. I especially love your smalls! That is what I love about blogging, seeing so many beautiful creations and meeting so many wonderful people.

Hugs,

Tricia T said...

Carol, what a sweet giveaway! I'm a Google Reader follower, but not an "official" one, so I doubt that will count for the grand prize -- which is a WONDERFUL one! I think it came off of my wishlist! ; )

But I think I am a fairly regular commenter, and I'd love to be entered in the drawing for the Homespun Elegance chart!

I really enjoy blogging my stitching because it isn't a competition and everyone is so encouraging. I love all the stitching friends that I've met!!

As for my favorite chart... I think it would be the sampler I stitched years ago that includes the verse, "I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content." It hangs in my hallway and I see it every day. It is a good reminder!!

Blessings!

Tricia

Anonymous said...

Thank you so much for the opportunity to win your giveaways! You are very generous. I enjoy getting inspiration from your blog. I would like to be entered into the first two drawings. I would have to say my favorite thing about having my own blog is that feeling I get when I realize someone else in the world is looking at something I made. I will say that I enjoy browsing blogs more than having my own though. I love the inspiration I get and I'm learning so much.

www.twofriendscrafting.blogspot.com

Terry said...

I have been checking this blog for a couple of months now, and I enjoy it a great deal! I am not entering the contests...I do not want to seem like a newcomer who just wants prizes! I do want to say that I love your things, and appreciate your positive and welcoming attitude. When just finding a new blog, it is nice to feel welcome and not have a lot of negative things said. Happy Easter to you! Terry in Texas

Michele T said...

Awesome giveaway!!! I am a fairly new follower and the thing that I love most about blogging is the sharing of creative ideas, and endless inspiration! If I won I would choose #1 - thanks!

Bianca said...

Congratulations on your blog and many followers. I am a new follower to your blog. I would love to enter the first two giveaways. Even though I don't have my own personal blog, what I love most about reading them is getting to see so many great projects and fabulous stitching/finishing. I get so much inspiration that keeps my passion for my hobby going, and I love getting ideas for trying things I wouldn't normally think of on my own. Thanks for these great giveaways!

~*Sharee*~ said...

Congrats hun; wow 700; that's a LOT...:) Please enter me in your #2 drawing; even though I love them all. I love blogging because you get to meet so many different people who stitch somethings I've never seen before and I get a lot of ideas from others; were a support group kind of..:)

Hugs, Shar

Wendy @ Ravenwood Whimzies said...

Happy Blogaversary! What a generous gal you are-such lovely giveaway items! Please include me in your giveaway. I think the things I love most about blogging are the wonderful creative ideas and the friendship I have made.
Thanks so much. Hope you sleep well again tonight.

Natasha said...

What a beautiful post Carol. I along with many others trully enjoy your blog and looking forwardt o reading your posts whenever you post. 700+ how very cool :)

I would love to be entered into the drawing for the Grand Prize Drawing. I do think that Peep chart is darling.

What I enjoy most about blogging are the wonderful people I "meet" wheather in person or just through emails. The people in the stitching community trully are a wonderful bunch. It is so nice to have a common bond with someone true friendships are formed that way. Thank you for the wonderful chance!!

You'r drawing ends on the same day as my 12th wedding anniversary :)

Linda said...

Wow Carol! What an awesome giveaway. I started reading your blog when you started. I really enjoyed the journey with you and your ornament a week projects. I have read them several times. I love PS and have about 95% of their charts. In fact, I think your blog was one of the first places I saw them and went on an Ebay journey. In fact, Animal Alphabet that I looked for for months finally came up for bid and I paid GULP $81.00 for it. (Don't tell anyone) lol My favorite piece, so far, to stitch has to be my header picture, Wacky Welcome by Diane Arthurs. I love her designs and bright cheery colors and (no quarter stitches). She was the first designer charts that I ever bought. I have over 400of them. I started blogging Jan. 2011 and am just thrilled that I have 175 followers. I never thought anybody would be interested in what I had to say or stitch, so I didn't it mostly because I love going back through it and seeing what I have stitched. I also have met many wonderful people through my blog and am honored to call them my friend. (including you). Ok, I'll shut up now.
I would love to be entered in giveaways 1, 3 and 5. I have the PS charts and have stitched the Garden one.
Thank you for giving me many hours of pleasure with your blog.

Linda

VegasJilly said...

what a fun giveaway!! I would love to be entered for the grand prize!!

I love blogging because it has given me such a great opportunity to meet other stitchers and share all of our work and learn new tips for stitching that i didnt know before!

boysmum2 said...

#3 is very similar to a picture I stitched when I was 8yrs old. Will have to try and find the stitching one day. I love giveaway #2 and would love to be ebtered for it please.
Blogging for me started as a way to keep my family up to date on the 2 little guys in our life but from there it has become a laugh with others, cry with others and learn with others place that I can waste many an hour everyday if I was allowed.

Anne said...

Oh wow Carol! First off I have to say how glad I am to have found your blog and gotten to know you! This is probably one of my favourite things about blogging: meeting wonderful, creative, lovely ladies who I have had the pleasure of getting to know!! Also, what you said is exactly how I feel about blogging. I feel inspired by what others create and even though I don't stitch fairies and dragons either, I'm amazed at what others stitch too!!

Happy Blogoversary by the way!! And I would love to be entered in your more than GENEROUS giveaway!!

Hugs!!

Anne

Jennifer said...

As usual another delight to read Carol! Happy Easter to you too! Spring is one of my fav times of year . Watching the beautiful bulbs come back to life, the birds returning and all the pastel colours. I think yrs ago it was determined that my 'season' was spring as I can wear all the spring colours . Ha ha . I'm sure you can picture the draping of the colours that people used to do! My fav part about blogging although I haven't done much about xstitching lately , is that I get to link up with so many talented people all over the world . It brought me back into xstitching, a hobby that is my fav
of all handiwork to do . Your generous giveaways look beautiful . I would love to be put in the draw for the first one . Hope you have a wonderful week Carol!

Autumn said...

Oh what a sweet giveaway. I would love to be entered but since I'm newer to your blog I will understand if I don't qualify as a 'loyal commentor'. Congrats on the blog success.

Phyllis said...

I enjoy reading your blog, though I don't post a comment often. I don't have a blog yet, but want to make one as soon as I get the courage to figure it out.
Congrats on reaching 700 followers, looks like 717 are now following your blog.
I would love the chance to enter your grand prize giveaway. Thanks for the chance!

dulcinella said...

I really loved your post. I just started blogging and i am amazed how much it helps me focus on getting some stitching done, what great ideas I get for finishing, and how many lovely designs and designers there are I didn't know of.
as for blogging i more than one language. It is a bit difficult. If I blog in my own language, people who really want to follow ,need google translate, which give such strange translations:-) so I decided to talk funny myself in alternating between the languages I know (albeit far from good enough)
keep on the good work. you have a wonderful blog!

Margaret said...

Hmmm. Am I allowed to ask to be in two of the giveaways? :D I'd love to be considered for the Twisted Threads chart, Bunny Gingham . But I'd also love to be considered for the grand prize giveaway as well. Hope that's ok! What I love about blogging. Definitely what you mentioned -- the whole community of stitchers I've gotten to know and become friends with. But also just being able to have a document of sorts of my life in stitching, in family events, in things that come along during the year. Thanks for the giveaway! You deserve 700 followers!

Anonymous said...

I enjoy your blog and the smaller stitching projects you choose are always precious. I do not blog and have just recently started following blogs and cross stitching again. The work of you and others has opened my eyes to new patterns I would never have chose.
Thank you for sharing with us!!
Lisa in Texas

Barb said...

Hi Carol, Your finishes are just lovely!! I totally agree that we do this for enjoyment and should do what gives us pleasure. Your give-aways are so generous!!

Jen said...

Hi Carol, thanks for entering me into your giveaway drawing! I love the grand prize and the second prize and would love to be entered for both. Right now my favorite chart is Mary Roe by the Scarlett House because I just started it. :). My favorite things about blogging is the friends that I've met online and the inspiration I see on others' blogs on a daily basis!

Faye said...

What a fun giveaway Carol~~ I love them all and would be happy about any selection...One of my all time favorite charts is a design by La D Da entitled, "Rejoice, Always Rejoice" I have stitched it twice and would stitch it again...The simplicity of the words and the nice color selections make it a true favorite of mine~
Congrats on all the followers...You are a true inspiration to all of us!!

Always, Faye

Deborah said...

Carol, what a lovely post. Congrats on the 700 followers. I have met so many wonderful people through blogging and the inspiration I receive from everyone's stitching and finishing is invaluable to me. One of the most beautiful designs I have ever seen is Glendon Place's Give Thanks. Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday and I have much to be thankful for. This design will be hanging this year for Thanksgiving. I would love to be entered in your grand prize giveaway.

Beth said...

Congrats Carol - 718 Followers. That is awesome.

CJ in OK ;-) said...

What a great blog post and you have insprired me to keep posting, even though I can't post three times a week and my stitching progress seems slow and boring and I only have 19 followers including myself. This process has value, it's why I came back to it and I will stitck with it as you have. Love all the giveaways, but the little Gingham Bunny makes me smile, and seems small enough for me to tackle if I were so lucky to win it. Thanks again CJ in OK ;-)

Teresa S. said...

I can't think of anyone who deserves 700+ followers more than you, Carol! Your blog is always a lot of fun, inspiration, and stitching/sewing beauty.
These giveaways are very generous and wonderful.
I have had my eye on the Peter and Peeps design (thinking along the lines of BIG like a pillowcase) but never broke down and got it. So, please throw my name in for that giveaway.

My favorite stitch (in the last 3 or so years) has been This is the Day by Hands to Work. A lovely sampler design, wonderful verse and a complete joy to stitch!

Sarah Beth said...

Hi Carol. Love everything. I enjoy reading your blog and what a generous giveaway. Any of these would be fine.

Kathy A. said...

What a lovely post Carol. I like the way you were able to express how blogging has influenced you in so many wonderful ways. It is a real pleasure having you as part of the stitching world. You have been a wonderful addition. Happy Celebration. Hugs Kathy

Poppypatchwork said...

Please enter me into your give away, I do love the 1st items, but would be happy to win any items.
I find my fav piece is always the one I am stitching, but I am now very fond of the Tribal art, I have done the penguin, I am stitching the cat and have a couple to do.

Bianca's Cross Stitch Oasis said...

Wow, congratulations! I will never have that many followers. But then again I don't think I blog often enough. You see when I am on a roll with my stitching then I'm way too busy to take a picture and talk about it. I could be loosing precious stitching time ;-)

Could I please be entered into your giveaways. All three are wonderful! So I don't mind in which one I enter. You choose ;-)

My favourite chart is The Madonna and Child by Joan Elliot. It was in a mag last year and on my to do list

Solstitches said...

Congratulations on 700 followers Carol!
That is an awesome achievement and very well deserved. Your blog is always a delight.
I'd love to enter the giveaway.
Two things I like most about blogging are friendship and inspiration.
Margaret

Cath said...

Congrats on your follower count.
I'd love to be entered into any of your giveaway draws .
My favourite chart that I have stitched has to be my Orang Utan , I still love it every time I look at it . Still got lots to do though , so it may be ousted at some point , lol.

Mouse said...

gosh where to start :) first of all whoo hoo on the 700 followers I had to read that twice ...lol
would love to be entered into the draw all the goodies look scrumptious especially the chocolate heheehhe ....
not sure If I am one of those special peeps sooo will say just in case ;) 1 followed by 3 .....
and the best thing about blogging is not just the showing off of our stitching but the friendship and laughter and cups of tea we have on the way ....
I miss checking up on folks if I can't get to the computer and if I haven't seen some one for awhile I have to drop and email and say "HI" .....
off to go and put the kettle on now want to join me ???
ooo my favourite stitched piece is my Celtic Spring by LL as this was the first piece I stitched on linen :)
love mouse xxxxx

Elia said...

Dear friend, first congratulations for this number of followers for your love and your blog, I am an admirer of your work ;-))

I would like to participate, although I live far from you, but I'm very excited, like when you're a little kid and you see wrapped packages.
It's hard to choose, but first I'll take 'the garden', with references to my blog, second 'country spirits', but everything is so beautiful ...

I wish you a happy Easter holidays, and a beautiful April, thanks for your kind comments yesterday, and again, congratulations for being so dear in this world of blogging, and thank you for your generosity!

a special hug,

eljardindemiduende ^^

Daffycat said...

What a beautiful post, Carol. Very well said!

I'd love to be entered for the grand prize or the Prairie Schooler giveaway.

I just enjoy sharing my love of needlework and making such fantastic friends. I'm glad I'm not the only one who worries about their blog friends when they don't see them around for a bit!

Gabriele said...

What a nice post. I try my luck from Germany.
Happy Easter to you and your family.
Hugs,

Valma said...

It's absolutely normal that you have now so many followers :)
your blog is always full of sweet posts, sweet finishes, sweet stitchings ... and you're a source of inspiration =D
I'm a baby blogger :)
but I have already 'met' many wonderful persons already (Of which you are part of, of course) and that's why I love being part of the blogosphere ...sharing, discovering, talking as if we had known each others for years or as if we had been friends since school =D
I not only share Xstitch, I share more than that !
I would love to stitch a Plum Blossom from Wang ChenXi, any number, I love them all
But I'll need 2 lives, or 6 hands to do it :)
I would love to enter your giveaway, if I can't win #1, #5 would be great =D
Thanks for being part of the blogosphere =D
Big hugs from France
xxx

Chris said...

Good Morning Carol!
Congratulations on 700 followers. Please enter me in the grand prize giveaway.
I love blogging for the same reasons as you do. I am inspired and encouraged daily by this community.
I can't think of one favorite project. I really love them all. The samplers that I stitch I call by the girls names and I love them all.
Have a great week!

Christine said...

Congratulations on 700 followers!
My favourite things about blogging are all the new people you get to "meet", and the insights it gives you into the way of life in different parts of the world. Oh and its pretty good for inspiration and eye candy too.
Please include me in your Grand Prize draw.

Annie said...

Very generous giveaway! I'll pass on entering since I've already received my share. Good luck to everyone who enters!

CATHI said...

Hi Carol!

Blogging means to me that people with the same interest can communicate, give courage, support and positively influence each other. This makes you feel that you are not the only "cross stitch addict" in the world (sometimes friends and family try to make one feel so, but...), that you are not a crazy person who likes /even loves/ this extraordinary hobby... :o)
If it open to international stitcher, I would love to be drawn in the giveaway for the grand prize and for #2...! :o)

Thanks so much for this wonderful giveaway!

Cathi

Giovanna said...

Thanks for offering this lovely giveaway! I'd love to be considered for the grand prize please (it's those pink bobbins that clinch it for me, lol!). What I love about blogging is that it helps me set goals with my stitching and keeps me focussed on achieving them.
Congrats on having all those followers! I just became one myself, besides having you on my Reader - I thought I was already but evidently not...

Ann said...

Hi Carol,
So sweet of you to offer us the opportunity to win a give-away.
I started reading your blog a couple of months ago on searching for more info on finishing small items (as stated before, I'm a huuuuge fan of your "ornamented" staircase :-).
For me blogging is to enable and be enabled. To have new ideas on an unexpected subject. To have the possibility to be in contact with other people that share the same interests and who are sometimes at the other side of the globe. To have a sense of togetherness in this sometimes hard world!
Enough chatter! As I already have lots of Prairie Schooler charts, I'm going to be greedy and ask you to enter me for the grand prize drawing. ;-)
I'm looking forward to your April pieces and finishes!
Have a nice day!
Ann

butterfly said...

Oh Carol another beautiful blog. I always love your blog and you always inspire me and you are the reason I have joined this beautiful world of blogging I have made so many sweet friends here we are always ready to help each other with any thing, like you say with all this doom and gloom around , It brings so much Sunshine in to our lives.
Your giveaways are all wonderful and I would be over the moon to have a chance to win any thank you.
Congratulations on having 700 followers, you must know now how much we all love you and your blog.
I was reading a new mag today and will show this week, this lady Chloe Crabbe who is 102 still stitching thats made my day, she never started untill she was 70. Thank goodness I may still be able to stitch every thing I have ha ha.Hugs

The Queen Bee said...

Carol, Congratulations! That is so impressive.

Your give-a-ways look nice but don't enter me....I have a lifetime plus so I'd prefer they go to someone who would enjoy them.

Hope you have a nice Easter.

Pam

Unknown said...

Hi Carol,

What a wonderful post as always. Like you I started to blog just over a year ago as a way to keep track of all my stitching and it has since then grown to encompass my knitting and daily going's on with the children and its now more of an online diary, something my followers don't seem to mind which is fascinating as what would be worth reading in all that, or at least thats what I thought originally. But I love catching up with peoples blogs seeing their wonderful creations and reading their stories. Blogging has opened up a wonderful world to people I'd have no other way of interacting with and I miss not having been on for the last couple of weeks so am now getting back round to catch up on people, funny how you miss it.
I'd love the chance to be entered into giveaway #2, I really love PS charts.

LoriU said...

Congratulations! I totally agree with your thoughts about blogs. I do not keep mine up because I never really know what to say (write!). But I do enjoy seeing others blogs and especially their stitching.

I would love to be entered in your contest. And that little Gingham Bunny sure caught my eye! Thanks for offering and congratulations again!

Rita said...

Thanks so much for the contests!

I'd love a chance for #3.

There is so much I love about blogging...getting to know other stitches, cheering each other along, seeing where/how others live their daily lives, and the exchange of ideas.

Birdie said...

CONGRATULATIONS on now over 700 Followers. WOW!!Please enter me for the Grand Prize Give-away.


I blog to have a chance to talk about my stitching and to keep in touch with fellow bloggers and friends. I have learned so much from blogging. From learning about new designers and techniques to discovering fabulous recipes along with of course so much eye candy from many talented people.

Thank you again for the chance!!

hugs
-missy-

barbara said...

I'm not surprised that you have 700 followers! :) Your gentleness of spirit shines through every word you write. I'm certainly glad to have had the chance to get to know you a bit better through your investigative efforts with that GOS article and the wonderful way you handled Rowen's "Flat Rowen" project. Meeting IRL someday sounds wonderful. :)

Were I lucky enough to win, I'd go for the Delivering Spring chart and stitch the bunny in black to match our three Silver Fox rabbits. :)

priscilla said...

Carol,
You have so many loyal followers because your stitching and finishes are amazing ! Maybe if I stopped staring at your finishes on the computer I would get more stitching done ! :) Love all your ornaments !

passionfruitprincess said...

Hi Carol! I would love to enter for the first one! Such pretty stuff!
I know why you have all these followers! Because you are a kind and caring person. I know you take the time to comment on so many blogs!
I finally reached 80 followers now, but I know I can always count on you to read my posts. I really, really appreciate that. I blog because I also wanted to keep a record of the crafts I do, but meet new people with the same interests as me has been really a treat. I have learned about new designers, finishes, so many things. I love other kinds of crafts as you know, and all the tutorials and ideas are amazing!
My favorite pattern at the moment is the Pair O' Pilgrims from Lizzie Kate that I really need to finish for fall.
Thank you, and have a great day!

BrendaS said...

Carol --
What wonderful giveaways you are having:) I so enjoying stopping by your blog and seeing what you are up to. The best part of blogging to me is seeing what everyone is working on and the great variety of items out there. It just amazes me how varied everyone's taste is and I'm always inspired every day:)

I would love a chance to win your Grand Prize Giveaway. Thank you so much!

Have a wonderful Easter. Hope you get lots of chocolates in your Easter basket.

HUGS to you.

Barb said...

Hi Carol! I'm pretty new to your blog, but I can understand why you have so many followers. I check it frequently and it really is a very happy day when there is a new posting from you - it's so much fun to see what you've stitched, finished or pictures of your beautiful yard or whatever you write.

I don't have a blog, but I love reading them and discovering the incredible talent and especially the amazing generosity shared by so many! It really makes all of our lives richer for these gifts.

thank you so much for sharing with us - we are honored!

The Knitting Cross Stitcher said...

My word what lovely giveaways Carol.
Congratulations on your 700+ this is a lovely blog to visit and I would love to join in the first giveaway on your page.Thanks.

I blog because I love the fact that I can, and that I have found so many lovely blogs and bloggers on the way. I simply like to see what others are creating in what ever craft it is that they love,even if I do not do the craft myself.

Laura said...

Hi Carol,
Love your blog and congrats on so many followers! Please enter me for the grand prize. I just love Peter and the Peep.

My favorite charts seem to be baby designs. I really enjoy giving little gifts to family and friends to mark the baby's birth. I remember making a small bib for a colleague years ago and he told me that his wife had framed it and put it in the nursery. Since then I have made all sorts of little gifts for my 11 nieces and nephews as well as my own daughter.

The Inspired Stitcher said...

Carol, congrats on your milestone! You go girl!!! How cool is that?!!

I couldn't agree with you more about the community of blogging. That's one of the things I enjoy most about it too. Like you, I started out wanting to document my finishes in pictures with a little commentary about the finish.

Now I look forward to the wonderful feedback from my readers. Everyone is so supportive of each other. We need more of that in this world!

I'd be thrilled to have my name thrown into any to the hats. Thanks for your friendship! With great big hugs!!!

Jackie said...

Hi there Carol. What lovely post you have here with such beautiful sentiments as always.
My short answer to why I blog is because I meet people such as yourself, so caring, giving, warm and encouraging. Less I forget also, very talented and inspiring with all your work and finishes.
You have enveloped some very nice giveaways and I do love them all, but please sign me on for the 2nd giveaway prize only, as you know, I'm a fan of Prairie Schooler designs. In fact I believe that is how I found your lovely blog a couple of years ago now, googling Prairie Schooler and found your monthly PS ornaments.
Should I not win, I enjoy your blog all the same.
Have fun with your giveaways.

Anonymous said...

Congratulations Carol. I most love about blogging is seeing what others are working on and getting to know other stitchers. I live about an hour and a half from my sampler guild friends. I sometimes feel I stitch alone but blogging helps me fill that gap.
I would love to participate in your anniversary giveaway. I am most interested in the first giveaway with the "With my needle" easter pattern. I would tell you all the offerrings but I have so much in my stash I am working on at present I don't really need to par-take. The raspberry creams look heavenly. I love anything raspberry flavored. Yum.

Rachel S-H said...

Thank you for hosting the give-away. I would like to be considered for the grand prize and the bunny gingham giveaways. I think the thing I like about blogging is getting to not only express my own thoughts on the craft, but getting to see others' thoughts on their own endeavors, and getting feedback.

Rachel S-H said...

Thank you for hosting the give-away. I would like to be considered for the grand prize and the bunny gingham giveaways. I think the thing I like about blogging is getting to not only express my own thoughts on the craft, but getting to see others' thoughts on their own endeavors, and getting feedback.

Vickie said...

Wow Carol, you have the most awesome giveaways ever,you honestly do. I would love a chance for #3. :)
Your blog is the first cross stitch blog I remember stumbling across. I never stopped checking back. You are such a nice, nice person Carol. You inspired me. I thought and thought about a blog. Two ladies in the community encouraged me to do it and I did it! I love the fact that everyone actually CARES! I have no one here in my life who stitches. It has been a gift from God, all of you stitchy friends. I love checking in. I love sharing. Thanks Carol.♥

Bekca said...

This post was a joy to read Carol. It's so lovely that you truly appreciate your commentators. We love commenting on your beautiful work! I would love to be included in your wonderful giveaway. I do consider myself a loyal reader and would love to stitch the Bunny Gingham design, so cute!
The thing I love most about blogging is the sharing and the kindness that goes on. Whenever a fellow stitcher is having a tough time, others always rally round and cheer them up. I love that the stitching community is international too, I've learnt so much from reading various blogs. It's the best!
Best wishes and congratulation on your high number of followers. You deserve them completely :)

Terri Patillo said...

I love blogging -- it's the best way I know to share my love of the needle, meeting new friends, and finding new designs.

I'd love to entered into Giveaway #1, please! Thanks for the great giveaway!

Terri
pr4gatheringroses AT gmail DOT com

McKenna C. said...

Thanks for the giveaway!

What I enjoy most about blogging, is getting to read and give encouraging comments. I started blogging in hopes that it would encourage me to stitch more, and it certainly has!

I would love to be entered in your grand giveaway. :)

~McKenna

Melanie said...

700 followers, weeeeeeeee!!!!! You keep rocking it, gurl!!!!!! :)

I would *LOVE* to get a chance to grab the Delivering Spring bunny. I love those 'pulling a basket' patterns I see all over the blogosphere but have yet to stitch one for myself.

Happy Easter!!!!!!

Meari said...

Congrats on your followers! Wow, you put me to shame ;-) Like you, I started out blogging many eons ago for the purpose of keeping track of my stitching. My blog morphed into so much more. LOL Ahh, the trials and tribulations in the life of a stitcher!

Could I be signed up for all the drawings?

I love looking at all the finishes of our online friends. Even the ones I'd never do... I appreciate the talent that goes into each one. Some finishes spark an idea for me, too.

Easter already? Where did March go?

Theresa said...

Wow~ 700 followers!! That's amazing~~ Congratulations!!!
You took the words out of my mouth!! What I love about blogging is exactly the cheering of fellow bloggers~ That's what keeps me going~

Your giveaway is always so generous!! I would love to win the grand prize, but I love all your prizes~ These bunnies are just too adorable~ Thank you for hosting this wonderful giveaway!!!

Maggee said...

wow!! 700+ followers! Pretty neat! Sure want to congratulate you! I love blogging! It started out as a way to post my stitching pictures and such, but now blogging and following are a vital part of my life! I had to stop for the past month or so to do taxes/finances and I have missed it so!! This week I will get all caught up! If I could be entered in the Grand Prize giveaway and the Prairie Schooler one, that would be terrific! Hugs!

Tatkis said...

Such a great number of followers, and I'm sure truly deserved!
I love the second prize, and spring charts look so sweet :)

I love about blogging this international sharing of craft ideas, feelings and nature beauties!

Hugs,
Tatyana

Tamra said...

Hello and thank you for the opportunity to be entered in your grand give away! I'm a prarie schooler fan but have collected almost all of the charts lol. I am new to blogging and like you wanting a place to put my stitching. I have read many stitching blogs and love their inspiration, how it sparks new ideas for my own projects. Also, starting to be pretty good at reading French :) Congratulations ! Happy Easter!

Tamra said...

Hello and thank you for the opportunity to be entered in your grand give away! I'm a prarie schooler fan but have collected almost all of the charts lol. I am new to blogging and like you wanting a place to put my stitching. I have read many stitching blogs and love their inspiration, how it sparks new ideas for my own projects. Also, starting to be pretty good at reading French :) Congratulations ! Happy Easter!

Tamra said...

Hello and thank you for the opportunity to be entered in your grand give away! I'm a prarie schooler fan but have collected almost all of the charts lol. I am new to blogging and like you wanting a place to put my stitching. I have read many stitching blogs and love their inspiration, how it sparks new ideas for my own projects. Also, starting to be pretty good at reading French :) Congratulations ! Happy Easter!

Tamra said...

Hello and thank you for the opportunity to be entered in your grand give away! I'm a prarie schooler fan but have collected almost all of the charts lol. I am new to blogging and like you wanting a place to put my stitching. I have read many stitching blogs and love their inspiration, how it sparks new ideas for my own projects. Also, starting to be pretty good at reading French :) Congratulations ! Happy Easter!

KathyK said...

Greetings Carol!

Been stitching for nearly 30 years and have fallen in love with "smalls" as they seem to be what I can actually finish stitching (now "finishing" is something else!!). I'm a card-maker (stamper) and have only ventured into the stitching blogland - so happy I found your blog. Beautiful work and you seem like such a NICE person. Happy Easter!

Veronica said...

Wow, what a generous giveaway, Carol. Congratulations on 700 Followers! :D Oh, I totally agree about stitchers cheering each other on. On many occasions, visitors on my blog gives me the motivation needed to continue stitching on a project no matter how frustrating the frogs visit have been.

Hugs,
Veronica.

Joy said...

Hi Carol

I love blogging because I left a lot of friends and most of my family behind when I married my husband and moved to Texas 3 years ago. I started blogging fall of 2009 because I was lonely and pregnant (we worked opposite shifts to accommodate my stepdaughter and stepson). Since then I've made a lot of online friends. It's made me less lonely.

Debbie said...

I would be happy with anything! But first of all congratulation on reaching over 700 followers!
Hugs, Debbie Moss

Anonymous said...

I did started blogging with a push from my husband!!! I enjoy it a lot and love to show off some of my works. The response I get and the friends I made (you included) in other parts of the world make me want to stay in this "business" for a long long time.
Prarie Schooler for me, Miss Carol, if you please!!! My Christmas tree can not get enough of it!
And I do love to read your blog!
Hugs from Portugal and Happy Easter to you too!

Charlene ♥ NC said...

Hey, sweet Carol! Not only do your wonderfully stitched and finished pieces draw my attention and praise, but your sweet spirited posts always make me smile. You are a dear friend, and I always look forward to your kind notes, and comments on others posts as well. So 700 followers is really not a surprise, but only three years is. It seems I've known you for much longer than that :-). Big hugs to you, and Congratulations on a blog well done!!

Mavi. said...

Hi Carol, congratulations on your followers. Your blog is so entertaining that it is nice to see what you do, as you do and your recommendations.
The blog brings us closer to people from many different sites with common hobbies, share sewing and more.
I like the draw Nº. 5. y nº3.
Thank you very much for everything.

Julie said...

Happy Esater to you and yours Carol.

A truly lovely post. Good Luck to all who enter your giveaways.

I like to read blogs to get inspiration for my own finishing skills and i have learnt so much from online tutorials that bloggers link too. Mine was started as a way to journal my own finishes and what fabric and thread i had used. I only have a small amount of followers/commenters but it makes me happy to receive each one.

Edit said...

Dear Carol,

I also started blogging more or less 3 years ago. Before, I did not know many of the designers and finishing techniques, they were simply not available where I live and I did not know anybody who was doing cross stitch, apart from my Mum of course :) So a whole new world opened to me through blogging. I have learnt a lot, got to know new designers, new ways to finish, and most important, wonderful people who share the same hobby. Sadly I haven't had the chance to meet in real life, but through the emails and blogs it is almost as real :)

Your giveaway prizes are all so beautiful, I am sure all of the winners will be absolutely happy to receive them. As for me, I would like to be included for the draw of giveaway nr 2. Prairie Schooler is my big love :) Thank you for the chance.

I wish you a lovely spring week,
Edit

Penny said...

I love visiting your blog! I find it to be very uplifting and inspiring. I enjoy your beautiful stitching and finishing too! Your giveaways sound wonderful, but please do not enter me. I've definitely been a little overwhelmed with all that I have lately. :)

msmartello said...

Hi Carol,

You are such a generous stitcher. How wonderful you are. Please enter me in the grand prize giveaway and Giveaway #2. I am a big Vera Bradley fan. You got me with that. What I love about blogging is the encouragement you get from fellow stitchers and since I have been blogging, I have really branched out with my finishing and I owe that to all my blogging friends. I never sewed anything until last year and now there's no stopping me. I try to think of different ways something can be finished. It is so nice to post something tha tis finished and receive such a nice comment. It makes me smile! I am going on vacation but will be back just in time to see who wins your fabulous giveaways. Take Care!

Maureen

Kathy H said...

I really like the way you finished that little bunny piece in the beginning of your post. All your prizes are great, I would love no. 1. I really enjoy blogging because of all the inspiration that I get from seeing what everyone is working on. I feel like I make new friends from all over.

Patty C. said...

This is such a fun time of year - Bunnies are just so adorable !!!!

Delivering Spring is such a darling chart - I had never seen that one -

Thank you for the fun ;)

Quiltsmiles said...

Carol,
Hitting 700! Congratulations on so many followers. Your charm and creative talents are part of what makes your blog such a delight to stop by. Yet that's not all, it's because of the warm hearted soul you are.
All of your giveaway presents are teriffic and quite generous. With the 3 charts youa re offering for some of your regulars, I'd love the Delivering Spring one.

Happy Easter and Spring,
Jane

Quiltsmiles said...

Like you, I enjoy the connections made by having a blog. The friendships made, strengthened and continued through blogging have been a beautiful force in my life. Both through the happy times, the difficult ones and all the peaks or valleys including the lost mojo times as well. LOL
Forgot to leave that within my first comment. DANG! Sometimes I hit that enter key too quickly.
Jane

valerie said...

Oooo, a giveaway! What fun! Firstly, I love that little bunny finish and that little bouquet of spring flowers. So pretty! What I like most about blogging is the support network. My blog friends have helped me overcome the deepest despair and been my cheerleaders and I am ever so thankful. When I was a young stitcher, I saw Fairy Moon in a shop and bought the pattern. It sat in my stash for years. She looks like she is looking to the moon for answers, chasing some dream and it touched me. I am really happy to have started her.

Unknown said...

All charts are very beautifil
I like your mini pillow
Thank's for all....!
Pat

♥ Nia said...

Happy April my sweet friend!! :D

Giveaway! Fun coming! hehehe
Please, count me in for your first giveaway! I probably won't stitch the second one so I will pass it to someone who would :)
Count me for the 3rd too! Order... hummm... 5 » 4 » 3 :)

What I most love on the blogosphere is to learn and to teach :) Learning with others how to make beautiful works and also sharing what I know! And I treasure the friends I meet in the way =)

Today, your post makes my heart smile!! =) I can see myself in your words too, it's almost the same as I feel for being a part of this stitcher's world :)
hugs&smiles to you

Sally said...

Wow Carol! Congratulations on your 700+ followers. I thought I had a lot but that is amazing! I would love to be entered into your wonderful giveaway please.

What I like about blogging is being connected to all the wonderful people out there like you who share my love of stitching. We encourage each other and I get so inspired ( and enabled!)by reading posts and seeing what others are stitching and how they finish things. Also love the fact that there is someone out there who appreciates what I stitch and that just makes my day.

I don't think I can decide exactly what my favourite piece is but I do love my MBT A New Day as the words are so meaningful and I stitched it when I was going through a very rough time. Also love my Quaker Christmas.

Bunny Gingham is such a cute chart if I were lucky enough to be picked for one of the charts :)

Nell said...

Congrats on hitting 700! Huuuge milestone! :) I would love to win the grand prize or the second prize!
Thank you so much for being that generous!

balintnati(at)gmail(dot)com

Anonymous said...

Thank you Carol for a great giveaway. I would love to be entered for the grand prize. But wouldn't mind winning any of your prizes they are all great!! I love bunnies. My favorite chart is BBD stitcher journey book. They are so many great projects in that book, I have stitched several already....

Jonette said...

I enjoy your blog and would love a chance to win. Sorry I don't always comment, but do know that I enjoy reading. I do not have a blog but what I enjoy the most about following blogs is that it has given me the inspiration to be creative again. It is so fun to watch what others stitch and how they finish items. I have stitched more in the last 6 months than I have in the last 10 years from this inspiration. Thanks to you for being part of that inspiration. Happy Stitching!

Dani - tkdchick said...

Hey Carol I would love to be entered in your two main draws. As for the chart specidfic ones I like the gingham bunny.

Why do I blog? Why do I like blogging, I think it makes me feel a little more connedcted with the world at large and the stitching community. Soemtimes its hard to find likeminded people around you who understand and apprecaite your obsession, um I mean passion. I've been very lucky to turn some of my firends into avid stitchers.

I love the support I receive from the stitching community and every chance I've had to meet a fellow stitcher has been special and a wonderful experience.

Blogging stitchers are generous and suppportive!

Carol I've enjoyed your blog for a long time now!

I hope you have a lovely Easter!

geeky Heather said...

WOWSA, that's a lot of comments! =) Congratulations on all the followers. I'd love to be entered for the first giveaway! The PS one is cute, too, but I'll leave that to the bigger fan girls than me. ;)

My favorite chart would be too difficult to pin down, so I will tell you what I love about blogging. I love not knowing which of my silly turns of phrase will make someone laugh, or how someone will respond to any random happenstance! I love making people laugh! =)

Catherine said...

Congratulations Carol!! I can only begin to imagine how having that many followers feels. It is easy to see why, as your posts are always so greate to read. My favorite stitched piece lately was the freebie from
Heartsting Samplery that I stitched last year in honor of my grandfather's sister. It'sone of those that it can't explain why, it just is. Hope that makes sense! As for the blogging world, I think you summed it up for may of us! I never would have made so many friends, all over the world no less, without it! Love the pinks and goodies in the grand giveaway, and I love the cuteness of the gingham bunny!

trillium said...

What I enjoy most about blogging is seeing all of the wonderful stitched items produced by fellow bloggers. I don't have a favorite chart, but my dream "wish list" chart is Autumn At Hawk Run Hollow." I just love the verses, colors, & designs on this big piece.

Oh, I'd like to win the lot of spring-themed goodies (Prize #1).

Denise said...

You have such a great blog and I love reading it. I just had my 1st blogoversary in March and enjoy reading everyones blog to see what they are working on and enjoy there family & pet pictures. I actually started my blog just to keep track of my projects and special things in my life. But then I found this great community of stitchers that share there projects, there ups & downs, there family, there challenges,& there funny little stories.
As I read your blog this morning (and as you can see I am a little behind in my reading)you really hit home with me, because I feel the same way. I am not big on commenting on every blog.
I would love to be entered in your give away both of them would be awesome to win.
Happy Stitching
Denise

Rina said...

Hi Carol,

Thanks for the giveaway and for your words on blogging. I too am a quiet librarian, and until recently usually just silently admired my favorite bloggers. I have not yet taken the plunge on starting my own blog, but I joined the Cottage SAL blog and I'm beginning to enjoy the sense of belonging to the stitching sisterhood! I would love to be entered for the Prairie Schooler draw - I'm with you on smalls and ornaments, and that Santa is gorgeous! The chart I'm currently salivating over is Persuasion by Stitching Parlour, for the literary link to my favorite author! Thanks so much!

Mary Joan said...

Hi Carol

I would love to win the Prairie Schooler items. I just love Christmas. I've been stitching the Blackwork Angels by Prairie Schooler and just love them. It's much too hard to choose just one chart that I love the most. But I do love blogging. It makes me try and get some stitching done and show off each week. It's always good to have a goal to work towards. It's also amazing all the friends you make from all over the world. And stitching friends are some of the best. You learn from one another, like a new technique, stitches or skills. And share links to tutorials,freebies and giveaways. I also love following to see what everyone is up to, and the amazing skills some people have.

Thanks for your giveaways and who ever wins will be delighted.

Take Care and Happy Stitching

Mary Joan
http://maryjoanstitching.blogspot.co.uk/

Paula said...

Carol, I enjoyed reading your post. I am a long time follower of your blog, but never comment...shame on me.
You do beautiful work!
Congrats on having over 700 followers.
I would love to be considered for your grand prize drawing. I don't blog, but a couple of my favorite cross stitch titles come from Raise the Roof Designs. Love Turkey Dressing and Witchy Washy. I'm currently working on Sweet Tooth.
Have a beautiful springy day!

Michele B. said...

You summed up the wonder of the cross stitch blogging community so beautifully, but then, you do have a way with words (could it be the librarian in you?) It's really hard to pick a favorite of what I've stitched, but I'm going to go with Do It Well by Silver Creek Samplers. Not because of its design so much but because the sentiment, which I stitched for my husband, described him so aptly. My favorite "oh how I wish I could stitch it" chart is Sunflower House by BBD. I fell in love with it when I saw it on someone's blog, and have stalked eBay in the hopes I could get it without mortgaging my house (alas, so far no good). We had sunflowers at my father's funeral and that flower holds great significance for me and my sisters. One of these years I hope I will be able to pay tribute to him by stitching it.

In the belief that lightning shouldn't strike twice I am going to let others take their best shots at your giveaways, and enjoy knowing that five people will be made as happy as you made me once before.

BARBARA said...

I absolutely heart blogs! And all the stitchers that participate are like your best friends. I have gotten many beautiful ideas and have even tried to do the little seasonal displays that you have shown us. I have many favorites but one that stands out is "Roots and Wings Birth Sampler" by Pat Rogers which I stitched for my first grandchild. I choose the grand giveaway and will feel very blesed if I am drawn...Happy Easter

Ele said...

Liebe Carol,

herzlichen Glückwunsch zu über hundert Bloglesern, was für eine Zahl!
Sie drückt die Freundschaft zu dir und deinem Blog aus, der für viele Leser eine große Freude und Inspiration ist.
Deine Fotos und deine hübschen Stickereien sind immer ganz zauberhaft, so dass alle gerne wiederkommen.
Für deine Mail und die Ostergrüße im Kommentar bedanke ich mich ganz herzlich und wünsche dir und deiner Familie ein frohes Osterfest.

Deine Gewinne sind sehr großzügig, bei den Preisen würde ich mich für die Nr.1 entscheiden.

Liebe Grüße
Gabriele

Kay said...

Been a loyal follower of your blog for some time as you know! Always enjoy reading your posts and to see what you have been up to this time with all of your beautiful stitching! I would love to enter all of the giveaways, but since I can choose just one I would love to be entered into the Prairie Schooler drawing since I just love Prairie Schooler! It is so hard to pick an exact design because there are so many that I like that are from PS, Bent Creek and Lizzie Kate. My most favorite though would have to be Santa and Friends by Prairie Schooler. I like how you worded it about why you like blogging, we do tend to be cheerleaders for one another with the support we give to our friends and fellow stitchers! That is why I too like blogging and of course the chance to meet new people and share a part of their world for a brief moment. As always your finishes are divine! I love the flowers as well. I hope you and yours have a blessed Easter.

Kay said...

Congratulations on your wonderful blog. I have been reading it for a couple of months now. Whilst I don't have a blog of my own I do love to look at other people's because I find them so inspiring,blogs also give me ideas about what I would like to stitch. I think my favourite design that I have stitched is a chart called Noel by JBW designs, it is very simple and beautiful using just one variegated thread. I would love to be entered into giveaway number 2 please.

Judy said...

Carol, I am new to blogging, no official blog at this time. Your blog was the first I found. I became a follower and enjoy each of your posts. I too love smalls and while not a finisher, I've gotten the courage to try from samples of your work. I check your blog on a daily basis..if no new post, I will look at few blogs on your sidebar. All of your giveaways are awsome. You don't have to enter me-as I am a newcomer of only 4 months. But I am not going anywhere---I'll be back!!

Judy Heartland Stitcher

Elisabeth said...

I would love to be considered for the Grand Prize Giveaway!! What I enjoy most about blogging are all of the different opportunities and all of the interesting people I meet! :)

Thank you so much!

Annette said...

Happy Spring Dear Carol...
Hope yor will have a flowerly month with a lot Spring finishes!!

700 followers???
To speal such lovely words...
You are such a great blogger and crafter.. who wouldn't follow your blog?
Always such lovely pieces to show, story's to tell..
And then talking about your finishes..
Your THE crafter of 2012..lol!!

Everybody lovely giveaway's!!

Choose one...mmm...

I will choose the first one..
I really love all the goodies, the fabrics ..Those raspberry Cremes are screaming for me ..lol..

I love blogging.. I'm so glad that I started it 3 years ago too..
It's a way that I can show what I like to do and make. share a piece of my life. with the ones who like to read it..
In RL most of my friends don't like crafting.. I love to see what I make wbut no talking about it.. On the web I find the friends who also love to craft who lovely to talk about it.. We can share idea's.. Make things togetheter... If I see something what i like I wanne make it.. and so is it with everyone I things..
Everyone has his one tast.. so you find so many different things..
We can learn from eachother that is what i like most of it..
And off course the contacts...
So great to can share a piece off our lives...

Beautifull said ... a neighborhood.... Great carol...

I hope you have a great Easter with your friends and family.. I love to see and hear what was on the menu at your living..
Have fun..

Hugs..

♥ Nia said...

___♥♥♥
__♥♥_♥♥
_♥♥___♥♥
_♥♥___♥♥_________♥♥♥♥
_♥♥___♥♥_______♥♥___♥♥♥♥
_♥♥__♥♥_______♥___♥♥___♥♥
__♥♥__♥______♥__♥♥__♥♥♥__♥♥
___♥♥__♥____♥__♥♥_____♥♥__♥_____
____♥♥_♥♥__♥♥_♥♥________♥♥
____♥♥___♥♥__♥♥
___♥___________♥
__♥_____________♥
_♥____♥_____♥____♥
_♥____/___@__\\___♥
_♥____\\__/♥\\__/___♥
___♥_____W_____♥
_____♥♥_____♥♥
_______♥♥♥♥♥

Sweet Easter to you :)

Michelle said...

Oh Carol - I have enjoyed reading this post - thanks for visiting my blog too - please enter me into your giveaway if thats ok xx

Martine said...

Hi Carol !

Happy spring dear Carol !!!
Wonderful giveaways ! Please, I would love to be entered into the Prairie Schooler drawing ! I love Prairie Schooler desings !!!!!
Happy Easter with your family !
Hugs !
Martine.

Vinniey said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Vinniey said...

Happy Easter, Carol! Love the last picture of your stitched piece. Your Easter framed piece is so gorgeous and sweet! And love the first picture too. Beautiful Easter ornament and lovely flower display! Congratulations on hitting the 700+ follower milestone, another 10 more followers to 750!!! So many people around the world love reading your blog and so am I! :) Always looking forward to see a new post from you and love reading them. I know I always not the first 20 person to comment your post but I always love visiting your blog whenever I have time. :) Sometimes, I just visit and read only when I have little time but I will come back to comment later.

I have had my eye on that delicious Raspberry cremes chocolate! Please enter me into your generous giveaway, Carol! I enjoyed blogging and reading blogs because I can make friends with people who share the same hobby. We share ideas and learn from each other and how nice to see those beautiful works around the world through blogging and I can improve my english too. :) One of my favorite chart is "Ring around the Rose Tree" from Mirabilia Designs but I just don't have the time to start stitching it.

PegC said...

Found you today on the site of a follower. What I like about blogging is -- it's not facebook! And I feel that people I interact with here, though we may never meet, have one serious thing in common that makes us kindred spirits --love of needlework. I enjoy seeing the successes, the approaches to life, the finishes and the sheer joy of sharing with others who "get this" passion without a word being said! I'd love to enter especially for the PS, thank you.

Melody said...

Carol, What a lovely post, and you have so many comments! Congrats on your milestone.

Love your giveaway offers as well. I would be happy to be entered into the grand prize giveaway.

I too, am so happy to have discovered this blog community of stitchers. What great people I've found.

I hope you will visit my blog as well, bookwomanstitches.blogspot.com

Thanks!

Giovi's Creations said...

Congrats!

The best part of blogging is the people I've met, stitchers and no-stitchers! around the world. It's amazing.

About the giveaway, I choose the first one, the 'Grand prize'
Thanks!

Giovi (giovichm@gmail.com)

Syd said...

Please enter me for the Grand Prize and Giveway #2. I think that my favorite chart is the one I'm working on at the moment. I am currently working Prairie School ABC.

Loraine said...

Hi Carol,
What a wonderful giveaway! Three wonderful giveaways really. I would love to be in any of them! I love reading your blog, and I'm sorry I don't comment much. I have found that I have to stay away from the computer most of the time, or I don't get anything done! However, it's great to get inspired, and look at what everyone is up to. Great job!

Hilda said...

Dear Carol,
thank you for your wonderful blog, your inspirative posts, your entertaining storys and above all: your friendship. No wonder that there are still 700 persons that want to visit and read your blog regularly!

Plase enter me into your give-away too. I like all this wonderful prizes ... but if you really want me to decide for one I would prefer the grand prize.
To mention my favorite chart is to difficult for me, because I really can not say, which chart I would love most. I could not even commit to only one designer ;-). Every time I am wandering around my favorite blogs I find a new "favorite" chart or even a new "favorite" designer. And that is also one of the reasons, why I love blogging. This - and because I met and still meet so many lovely persons from all over the world.

Hugs
Hilda

quiltma said...

Oh how I love all of the giveaways. Of course the Grand Prize is my favorite but could not pick between the rest if I win surprise me. I also love Prairie Schooler, Twisted Threads, The Drawn Threads and I love Angel Stitchin.

Elizabeth Brotherton said...

The alphabet sampler is lovely. I will have to add this to my wishlist and get it the next time I visit a cross stitch store. Luckily, i don't have to wait long--I'm heading to Connecticut and Thistle Needleworks this weekend!

I would love to be entered in the Grand Prize give away! Thank you for the chance to enter!

All the best,

Beth B.

Jenny said...

Hi Carol! Thanks so much for leaving a comment on my blog the other day - I can not even imagine how you keep up with all your own floolowers' blogs.. LOL

I blog for a few different reasons. Just like you, I like to keep a log on all my stitching projects. I used to do Web-shots before Blogger, but blogging is so much more fun!
I also write a little to "report in" with my family in Sweden. We don't see each other more than max once a year, so this is a good way for them to see what and how I am doing here in the Sates.
I have always enjoyed reading other stitching blogs and to gawk at all the creativity out there, so I decided to start "giving back" a bit to the blogging community (hope that makes sense).
And finally, I have discovered that blogging makes me happy. I tend to be more of a "glass half-full" kinda' person, but when I blog, I try to only write about happy things. Turns out, that makes me a happier person!

I can't wait to read through all the other comments on this post to see why other stitchers blog. (Plus, I may pick up one or new ideas for stash enhancement checking out their favorite charts... LOL)

Michele said...

Hi Carol, what a fun fun Spring giveaway! You know anything I would win would be wonderful :) You know I've enjoyed your blog and our chats. I hope you continue blogging for years to come.

Christina said...

Oh my goodness...743 followers?! That's truly amazing!

I've just spent an enjoyable 20 minutes with a cuppa reading what other stitches have written about their love of blogging. For me, the thrill of blogging is checking my emails and seeing that other stitchers have taken the time to leave a comment on my latest post. It's like having lots of pen pals with the same stitching obsession!

I would love to be entered into your giveaway. I would be thrilled to receive giveaway #1 as that Kelmscott needle minder is calling to me! ;0)

Robin said...

What a nice posting not to mention a generous giveaway. Let's see - what I like about plogging - well I seemed to have been in the cultural dessert of needlework before blogging. I, too, started it as a way to document and create a history of my work. I just love the feedback, the comments, tricks and hints I read about and recieve as well as the eye candy I get to enjoy on other's blogs. I think my favorite charts to work on are anything Jeannette Douglas. Love her stuff, love the fibers she uses. Had a class with her once and she is a lovely lady. Thanks for the giveaway and a chance to enter.

Melissa said...

As I put in my wee comment here, you have 143 on this giveaway! Goodness gracious!

Well, I would love to win #5 with the wee bunny lost amongst the alphabet! So cute!

Why I love blogging - it keeps me inspired to stitch but it's also nice to find stitching friends to share our love of stitching and life in general - like you! :-)

Kerri said...

Congratulations on your success! I am a brand new blogger and started for the same reasons you did - a record of my stitching journey. I also hope to make some new friends along the way since I had to move away from my stitching group several years ago.

You have come up with some lovely giveaways. I have had my eye on Peter Peep for awhile so I would have to say #1 would tempt me the most. But enjoying your wonderful stitching has been gift enough! Thanks for continuing to share!

Rowyn said...

Hi Carol

Please throw my name in the hat for the grand prize (Peter & Peep is gorgeous) and giveaway #5(that bunny is too cute!).

I love blogging for the same reasons as you do. It's the encouragement, the kindness, the inspiring of others and being inspired, the sharing (be it knowledge, exchanges etc) etc. A few words really can mean so much!

Congrats on over 700 followers. You deserve them, your blog is always a joy to visit and I always look forward to your posts.

Lois said...

Carol, what a lovely giveaway! I started blogging like many of us, as place to record my stitching. I never imagined that many would be interested in following my ramblings and yet here I am over two years later and I love being part of this community.

I'd love to be entered for giveaway #1 as I just love that Peter and Peep chart!

Kellie said...

Hi Carol,
What a fabulous giveaway, and congratulations on 700+ followers. I know I find a lot of inspiration from your blog and stitching, as I am sure everyone else does as well.

I would like to be entered for your grand prize giveaway. I love the Peter and Peep chart. I have been eyeing it since it came out this year. So generous of you to offer so many fabulous drawings.

I love blogging because I live in a very small town where I am probably the only stitcher. LOL! There are no remotely close needlework shops anywhere near me. I find that blogging lets me connect with other stitchers and to see designs that I would not see anywhere else. I love the inspiration (and enabling!) that I get from the stitching blogging community. And I adore the friends that I have made through this community.

Kellie said...

Hi Carol,
What a fabulous giveaway, and congratulations on 700+ followers. I know I find a lot of inspiration from your blog and stitching, as I am sure everyone else does as well.

I would like to be entered for your grand prize giveaway. I love the Peter and Peep chart. I have been eyeing it since it came out this year. So generous of you to offer so many fabulous drawings.

I love blogging because I live in a very small town where I am probably the only stitcher. LOL! There are no remotely close needlework shops anywhere near me. I find that blogging lets me connect with other stitchers and to see designs that I would not see anywhere else. I love the inspiration (and enabling!) that I get from the stitching blogging community. And I adore the friends that I have made through this community.

Mary H said...

Hi Carol,

First of all--congratulations on the success of your blog. Having 700+ followers is quite an accomplishment and a testament to your lovely stitching.

I don't have a favorite chart but I do like the Prairie Schooler Santas. I purchase the latest one each and every year and have the entire collection.

Please don't include me in your giveaway. Just reading your blog is a gift in itself for me.

Mary H

Heather said...

Hi Carol! I like your bunny, very cute! Your flowers are pretty too! Congrats on having 700 followers. Your blog is one of my favourites!!

I would love to be entered in the giveaway and I like #1.
My favourite chart right now is European Goldfinches by Crossed Wing Collection. Love it!! ;o)

Love, Heather

Lynn said...

I'm so sorry I missed your lovely giveaways. You were so very generous! I've fallen so far behind on my blogging. I'm sure you thought I'd fallen off the face of the earth. Just haven't been myself lately but I'm slowly getting back on track.