Thursday, January 12, 2017

Christmas in January and a new stitcher!

Happy January! I have to say this has been the oddest January I can remember... While many of you are getting buried in snow in locales that normally receive little or none of the white stuff, we haven't had more than an inch. As I write this post--we have nothing on the ground--only green grass! We didn't even have snow for Christmas, which I always hope for. Oh well, it's made it very easy to get around, but I feel for the ski resorts, snow removal companies, and others who rely on snow for their livelihoods in the winter. It must be a very tough year for them here in western Pennsylvania!

So, how is this new year treating you so far? There seems to be a fair number of colds and flu going around the world from what I've been reading on your blogs. I'm always amazed that I'm not sick more often, considering what I do for a living and all the germ-infested things that I touch in the library on any given workday--the library cards, the computer mice, the keyboards, even the books themselves! But, so far, so good--I hope my good health holds out as it will be one busy, busy year for my family. So far, we have three family weddings (including my son's in October--can't wait!), my mom's 90th birthday in May, and our 40th wedding anniversary in July on our calendar. Lots of travel, but for such joyous occasions!

I've begun stitching a new mid-sized sampler, but don't have enough worth showing quite yet, so, instead, I'm going to share with you some of the Christmas ornaments that I sent to friends here in the U.S. There are still a couple of ornaments wandering who-knows-where in Europe and I'm beginning to worry as it has been almost a month since I mailed them... Oh dear! I'm still keeping my fingers crossed that they will show up at their new homes...

This sweet Hands On Design (from the "Chalkboard Ornaments Part 3" chart) flew across the state to my friend, Mary. I was so tickled with this finish that I know I'll be stitching it again for myself. It is stitched "over one" on 28 ct. black Monaco and is so tiny that I had to scale everything down. I cut smaller leaves from felt than those that came with the chart, used a smaller button, and finished it with some miniature white ric rak. A little tip: when you finish an ornament, pay close attention to scale. If the ornament is small, use smaller prints and trims for a more polished looking finish.

Hands On Design "Silent Night" finish

Myra, in North Carolina, received this handsome gold Prairie Schooler Santa from the "Father Christmas" Book No. 43. This is the second time I've stitched this one and the second time I've given him away so the third time will be for me (greedy, aren't I?!). I used 40 ct. flax Newcastle and the suggested DMC colors in this design.  An oval finish with hand-made cording and a simple bow finished him off quite nicely. I never get tired of stitching Prairie Schooler Santas for some reason--they are just such classics.

Prairie Schooler Santa finish from Book No. 43

And my friend Robin, in Virginia received yet another Prairie Schooler ornament from the "Evergreen" Book No. 202. I used 40 ct. country mocha Newcastle and good old DMC threads for this finish along with a bit of lace and some little red jingle bells sewn along the bottom.  I so love that dove and peace is something we surely could use a lot more of these days... I plan on stitching this one again, too, but this time, on black!

Prairie Schooler Dove of Peace finish

Speaking of stitching on black, when I was taking down my Christmas tree last week, I was surprised to see just how many ornaments I had stitched on black... I posted this photo on my Instagram page last week and it was a big hit, so I thought you blogging buddies might like to see it, too. Do you know what my favorite is? If you guessed one of the Prairie Schoolers--you're wrong! Nope--it is the one right in the middle: "Five Golden Rings" by Cottage Garden Samplings. Are you surprised? I don't know what it is, but there is just something special about those sweet angels carrying the golden rings, that I really adore. So, do you have a favorite?

Can you tell I love stitching on black?

But wait! There are more!! A couple of my Instagram friends asked me about the PS Santa with the cardinal that they remembered seeing on my blog a few years back and I realized I had totally left out not just that one, but two others, as well.  The Santas were not at all happy with me and wondered how on earth I could forget them, so I promised them their very own "photo shoot!" Several people asked about what fabric I used on this trio... Well, these are each done on something different; the Santa with the cardinal is on 32 ct. black Belfast linen, the one with the lantern is done "over one" on 28 ct. black Monaco, and the Santa pulling the sled is done on 18 ct. Aida.

Three Prairie Schooler Santas on black

I wanted to stitch something special for my oldest son and his fiancée to commemorate 2016--the year they got engaged, and I thought this Little House Needleworks ornament fit the bill perfectly. I chose to use the green cording as I didn't want anything too "girly" since it is for both of them. I'm happy to say it was well-received and I hope to start a tradition of making them an ornament each year to add to their tree. We so enjoyed having her with us at Christmas--another girl in the mix was fun for me and she and my son were both a great help in the kitchen. They even got me and my husband out bowling on New Year's Eve, something we hadn't done since college over 40 years ago! (And, believe me, my poor aching body reminded me of that fact for a few days after--bowling certainly uses muscles that I don't ordinarily work out!). We won't talk about the score--let's just say I need more practice...

Little House Needleworks: "Season of Love" finish

A new stitcher! My future daughter-in-law expressed interest in my cross stitching and said she wanted to learn, too, so, of course, I jumped at the opportunity to teach her. It was just a quick lesson on 14 ct. Aida using two colors and a simple lady bug chart. I was so surprised to get this back in the mail earlier this week! Not only had she finished the lady bug on her flight home, but she added the heart and the wording all by herself... She says she has found "her hobby!" YAY!! Another young convert! I am so happy to see more of the younger generation finding the joys of cross stitching--it really does warm my heart.  I began stitching when I was in my early 20's and it has brought me so many relaxing moments. My 62nd birthday is right around the corner and I'm sure at age 22,  I never dreamed that I would still be stitching 40 years later!

First cross stitch ever from my future daughter-in-law!

And, there I go again with an overly long blog post!! I do need to work on that... I am just the worst procrastinator when it comes to sitting down and composing a post and then, when I finally do, I have way too much to share. Thanks for those of you who are still reading. I'll be back later this month with photos of the ornaments I sent to my international friends (and one more U.S. friend)--hopefully, they will have all arrived by then...  Thanks so very much for all of your wonderful comments--they truly make my day! Stay warm now and happy stitching. Bye for now...

85 comments:

Arlene G said...

Carol, I have NO cross stitch ornaments on my tree and I am a prolific stitcher so I plan to do some this year. I will have a plain tree at our little house in the country and it will be covered with hand made ornaments. Well that is the plan anyway.:) So happy you have a stitcher in the family. None of my daughters or granddaughters are interested. Love seeing all those ornaments stitched on black as well...lovely.

Erin said...

Hi Carol, and Happy New Year!
Just wanted to take a minute and say that I always love your posts (even the ones that aren't about the old hometown - ;) ). Your stitching is always lovely, and your reflections are a joy to read.
Congratulations on recruiting a new stitcher! She did a great job on her first piece, and I'll bet with your encouragement she'll be zipping along in no time! (Psst....tell her to start a blog, too, so we can all cheer her on!)

Erin

Ann at Beadlework. said...

It's lovely to introduce cross stitch to someone. When I was teaching I taught it to a class of eleven year olds in the hope that a few might continue with it.
My favourite on black is the Santa in the top right of the photo, they are all very appealing though.

Shortbread and Ginger said...

Love your ornaments. You have given me some ideas for finishing off my stitching projects!

Tricia T said...

I love that your DIL is goung to be a stitcher, too. What a sweet bond that will be!!!

Tricia B said...

It is so fantastic that you have brought your future daughter in law into our ranks! I tried teaching one friend (who asked to be taught) a few years ago and she couldnt make it through the first lesson. I love all of your ornaments! I stitched the PS gold santa this year and had intended to give him away but loved him so much I kept him for myself. Your finishing is perfection, as always.

Robin in Virginia said...

What fabulous ornaments you have created and I thank you again for the Peace one. Love the gold Santa you stitched for Myra; love the reindeer you have it hanging from. It was fun to see all the ornaments you have stitched on black fabric, Carol. The ornament you created for your son and fiancée is beautiful. How fun that she has found her "hobby"; her first piece is super.

Vickie said...

The ornaments you created and gifted this year are beauties. Robin's really stands out for me. It is so very pretty! My favorite black finish is the same as yours. ;) Season of Love is just perfect for the young couple Carol. You should see me smiling at your teaching your future DIL. And her completed project! I L♥VE it! HOORAY!

Hilda said...

I love reading every of your posts, Carol, no matter how long they are. I do just have the problem on what of the things you show and tell, I well answer in my comment (so that my comment will not get too long, haha).

Your ornaments are stunning - each of them. I do have a thing with black at the moment, so I am totally taken by your black ornaments. Couldn't say which one I like better. The look amazing together!

It is so wonderful, that your future DIL is interested in your favorite Hobby. I know how you feel about it, because the girlfriend of my son also asked me to show her, how to stitch two years ago. And after only one lesson, I also got a little present from her: I stitched scissor fob - very sweet.

Enjoy the coming weekend (and all the wonderful things around your birthday)

Hugs
Hilda

Kate said...

Carol, I always enjoying reading about what you've been up to and seeing all your beautiful pieces. How wonderful that your future DIL has taken up x-stitch - may she enjoy it as long as you have. :) Sorry to read that you don't have much snow - we have more than we need and you're welcome to it.

Katie said...

Carol I enjoyed reading your post no matter how "long" it is. I love all your beautiful ornaments. They are finished so gorgeous! I need to do better at finishing things. Plus I don't make myself do Christmas ornaments like I wish I did. I love your beautiful picture of all the ornaments. For some reason I love the Candy Canes 5cents one. But I love each one so much. They look so striking done on the black fabric. I love the ornament you did for your son. Adorable and perfect choice!! So neat that she wanted to join in your love of stitching and how extra sweet to send the finished piece to you to appreciate!!

Annie said...

Lovely gifts. Hope those gifts taking the 'long route' find their way.

That is really the perfect ornament for the new lovebirds. I'm sure they will treasure that forever.

So cool that your future DIL took to x-stitch so well! Your examples and teaching no doubt helped to inspire her.

Justine said...

I love all of your ornaments Carol, but for me the Silent Night one and the gift for your son and his fiancee really stand out. I love how you finish all of them.
You're going to have a busy year- what a lot to celebrate!
Your future DIL gave you such a sweet gift, how lovely that you will have not just your son but cross stitch in common!

Vicki said...

Carol, all of your ornaments are lovely! You do a great job with your finishes. Congrats on having a future DIL that wants to share your hobby. I am so fortunate that one of my daughters and a DIL both love to stitch. We constantly exchange patterns, threads, fabrics and love it when we can go to a shop together. It doesn't happen often (DIL lives in KS), but having this common hobby is special for each of us.

CalamityJr said...

No post from you is ever too long! You choose the best designs, stitch them beautifully, and are the best finisher I know. As far as my favorite, I've surprised myself. I'm not a huge Santa fan, but the gentleman in the mitten (upper right corner) has such a quizzical expression that I want to have a little chat with him to find out just what he's up to! Hope you get some snow. We got ice overnight with more coming this weekend so I'm feeling a little house bound. One thing about Illinois weather - if you don't like it, just wait a few hours and it will change. Take care.

Jenny said...

Hi Carol,
All of your ornaments are just lovely and the way you finish them is always "just right!" The ones stitched on black are truly stunning and I love all of them but my favorite is the little girl in the red dress :)

I think it is so very special that your future daughter-in-law is interested in cross stitch! She did a beautiful job on the lady bug and what a treasure her first stitches are. When my daughter was 6 she wanted so badly to " cross stitch too so I gave her some soda and a blunt needle and off she went! She wanted to stitch the alphabet " like mommy" ....I was stitching a sampler then...lol... and the letters she stitched are one of my greatest treasures! I too started stitching in my very early 20's and I am so glad I did....many, many happy moments both in stitching and giving gifts and enjoying stitched pieces around our home!

I love your blog posts my friend! They are never to long...they are full of wonderful stories and inspiration and bring joy to many...including me! So thank you for all the time you spend blogging!

Enjoy your day and sending hugs!

butterfly said...


Keep these long posts coming I love them .
So much lovely stitching treats on your post today , and beautiful gifts .
Love your header too.
How lovely you have a new soon to be family member you loves stitching .
Have a lovely Birthday and a lovely January .

Jenny said...

P.S......You just have to live the autocorrect...I gave my daughter aida to stitch on...not soda...lol!

Hugs!

Diana said...

Love seeing your stitched ornaments! My favorite is the Silent Night one. Glad your future daughter-in-law is interested in stitching, too.

Manuela said...

Hello Carol.
Wonderful post. I love always your post.
Wonderful little ornaments.
My favourite is the little girl.
The first stitching from your daughter-in-law looks good.
I love your new header.
Best wihes, Manuela

Shelly said...

Carol, please don't stop with your long posts. I enjoy them! My favorite of your black ornaments is Candy Canes. I love the chunky cording, the bane of my existence. Haha. I think I'll give cording another try this weekend. Sounds like your Christmas was wonderful and I imagine another female in the house was great. Congrats on converting your future DIL! It's good to see the younger people getting into the needle arts. Wishing you a continued germ-free year but this may jinx you too!

Maggee said...

That wasn't LONG! Some of my birding ones are long!! I have so many pictures to share sometimes... Loved seeing all the ones on black. (I haven't become total friends with black fabric yet...) If I HAVE to pick a favorite, I think the two Let It Snow ones are my faves... could it be cause we had a blizzard earlier? (hard to believe, as it is now 70 degrees out!!!) I appreciate that you share with us, and always look forward to seeing what you want to share! Hugs!

twinpeakprimitives said...

I do adore your finishing skill, ornaments, stitching taste!

It is always so delightful to see your wonderful works!A feast of my eyes!♥

♥♥

All the best!

diamondc said...

Carol: Love your ornaments, I think the Bird and Bird house in the upper left corner is my favorite, we feed the birds, we have 9 birdfeeders to feed our little friends.
Your daughter-in-law to come did a wonderful job, I hope she gets the stitching bug like the rest of us.
Your stitching gifts are so sweet, they are very lucky to have you as a friend.
I love long posts, it is always a pleasure to read and see what other bloggers are up to.
We have loads of snow I would send some your way but it would melt before it got to you.

Blessings
Catherine

Christina said...

I love seeing your stitching on black fabric. Thee colours really stand out - especially red and white - perfect for Christmas ornaments! How lovely that your son's fiancée has caught the stitching 'bug'! Iris is desperate to start stitching with me and has recently completed a cross stitch bookmark on binca as part of a Victorian's project at school.
You certainly have an exciting year ahead! Have you thought about your 'Mother of the Groom' outfit yet?

Linda said...

Such gorgeous ornaments Carol. It's to hard to pick just one as I love them all. Your future DIL did a great job on her first project.

Linda

Maggie said...

How lovely that your future daughter in law wants to stitch! you must have been a great teacher, she did such a good job on her first piece :-)
There are a few younger ladies in my stitching group, so it's definitely not an 'old lady' craft (as one of my work colleagues dared to say to me one day!)

Love all your ornaments and the one you stitched for your son and his girlfriend is so sweet.

Karleen said...

Really enjoy reading your blog. You got me back in to doing cross stitch again and really like it. Love seeing all the ornaments that you do. Thanks

Daniela Bencúrová said...

Wow, my dear Carol, surprised everytime a perfect finish! All I really like!
We have a lot of snow and severe frost. Nature is beautiful.
Hugs!

marly said...

The black background pieces are so striking. Difficult to stitch for the majority of stitchers. Always impressed with your finishing skills. Sounds like the newest member to your family is a perfect addition.

Cathy H. said...

Your post are never too long for me! I enjoy everything you share! Your ornament gifts are all beautiful! I've said this once or twice, but I want to say it again! I LOVE YOUR FINISHING!! Yay, to a new stitcher in the family. She may enjoy filling her Christmas tree with her ornaments and new ones from you.

angelasweby said...

Carol, I'm a procrastinator too and I love your long posts. We had a wedding in the family too but it was last year. My son and Vikki had a beautiful Christmas wedding on 9 th December. I stitched them both their first ornament last Christmas when they moved into their house together but this year there was no time as I had been busy stitching wedding favours and bridesmaids gifts. I think your choice of a Season of Love is perfect though and love the colours you chose to finish it. I may well do that next Christmas.
Your ornaments on black fabric have really sparked my interest and I will order some fabric and gave a go. I do like high count but wonder whether to have a trial go on lower count over one.
Talking of trial go's, how wonderful that your son's fiancé has made such a successful start on stitching. Before my sister retired from teaching, her craft lessons where she taught eleven year olds cross stitching were really popular. It bodes well for future cross Stitchers.
I'm really looking forward to keeping you company through a year of stitching.
Before I finish I must say how much I love and have always loved your January header. :-) xx

Mary - Lecoeurceltique said...

A beautiful selection of finished ornaments. I'm sure your friends loved their gifts. How nice of your future daughter-in-law to personalise her first stitching piece.

Cricket-bug Corner said...

The ornaments are fabulous! You are so lucky to be gaining a stitcher!!

valerie said...

Happy New Year, Carol! I just love all your ornaments and I can't believe you've stitches do many on black...over 1!! I think that the five golden rings stands out to me the most as well. It's so cute with the little angels. And how fantastic that your future DIL showed an interest in stitching and seems to love it! It's so sweet of her to send it back to you and hubby as a thank you for the warm Christmas hospitality I know you and yours showed her. How special!

Vonna Pfeiffer said...

My goodness, the same day and I'm like comment 100 :) every one loves Carol! I love all of your ornaments. Congratulations on the engagement and teaching the newest member on the team to get on board with stitching :) that's a successful start to 2017 if I ever heard one!

deb said...

Your ornaments are beautiful! I really like how you've made the finishes so individual. Amazing, brave you - all that stitching on black!!

How lovely your future DIL has discovered cross stitch with your help. She really zoomed through that ladybug. :) I've never been able to get my daughter interested in any kind of needlework...

Looking forward to seeing what sampler you're working on!

Southpaw Stitcher said...

So many pretties in this blog post! Your ornaments on black are stunning, but I shy away from working with that color because it's so hard to see, even with a white cloth in my lap.

Von said...

I love all your ornaments - each one is just gorgeous!
How nice that you have shared the stitchy bug with your DIL! My newest DIL is also a stitcher and it's been a lot of fun sharing projects and new stash with her. :)

Barb said...

You have so many wonderful ornaments. Maybe I need to give up big things and do more ornaments. I love your finishing. Great news about your future DIL. It's good to have a stitching pal in the family. My daughter did cross stitch years ago while I was still quilting. I do have some of her ornaments that I treasure. Sounds like a wonderful year ahead for you and your family.

Pull the other thread said...

Wow you do have a super busy Year ahead but sounds like all nice things to enjoy. Love the ornament finishes you sent off the friends, I especially love the chalk board silent night one. You really do have lots of ornaments stitched on black, they are all amazing but if I had to chose a favorite I would say the snowman one in the bottom left. Great to hear that you are converting people to joy of cross stitch, she did an amazing job for her very first project!

Lillie said...

A beautiful happy post Carol. No doubt the Five Golden Rings is stunning as with all of the ornaments. My personal favorite would be be the Little Girl. Love your January header. How wonderful, soon you'll have someone to share your passion and she finished her little project beautifully.

Christine said...

All the ornaments are gorgeous but the chalkboard one is just stunning!
How wonderful that you've made a new convert to stitching

Gabi said...

I can only say: Wonderful! all your stitching and I am proud to have some from you on my tree.
Welcome to stitcher's world fpr your DiL. I am sure under your wings she will become a perfect stitcher.
Have a happy year 2017.
Greetings from Germany

Jocelyn is Canadian Needle Nana said...

Carol, you are definitely the queen of the lovely ornaments and finishes. All beautiful and no way of choosing a favourite for me. Thankfully you have built a strong immune system as I did throughout my teaching years.

Mii Stitch said...

Another wonderful post with beautiful stitching & finishing.
My favourite has to be the one you made for your son & his fiancée :)
Glad to know she has been easily converted to such a relaxing & rewarding hobby!

WOODY said...

Hi Carol,
even here in Switzerland we received only yesterday some snow, but just a few.... now looking out of the window the sun already is shining and the little snow is going quickly ....
Wonderful stitching on black!! Love it.
Wish you a Happy 2017 with lots of XXX
Woody

sana said...

Beautiful ornaments!
May the year of 2017 bring you a lot of happiness and smiles.

LoriU said...

Just love all your finishes. I can never get enough of them!

How sweet of your future daughter in law!!!

Lili said...

Beautiful ornaments, Carol!
I love the Season of Love ornament, a perfect gift!
Your daughter-in-law made a great start, she will be a great stitcher too ;)
Hugs x

Cindy's Stitching said...

Beautiful gifts Carol. How nice your future daughter in law found a hobby that you love and can pass on to her. She will appreciate all your tips. I took down my tree today, I miss seeing these delightful ornaments until next year.

Karen said...

Your ornaments are beautiful! Very lucky recipients! How wonderful that you can share great obsession with your future DIL.

laceystitcher said...

I think that your posts are never too long for me! I always look forward to them. I read your post and looked at the beautiful pics of your ornaments, then I had to go back to the first and go through it all again; it was just like enjoying a really great cup of tea with your favorite dessert!! I can't pick a favorite from your beautiful ornaments; I love them all. I always feel that most any pattern looks better on black fabric; there is just something about the way all the colors jump out at you when they are done on black. Thanks again for continuing your blog and sharing your wonderful talent with all of us. I think I will pull out a PS piece that I have going. Happy stitching to you.................

Julie said...

Well done your future daughter-in-law, a lovely finish and so nice she mailed it back to you with her added personalisation of thanks, that was a lovely gesture.
Love all the black background ones, I've never stitched on black, perhaps its something I should try?
We had snow this morning, the first of the winter, just a sprinkling, it looked lovely.
A treasure you made as a reminder of the engagement year. I always make an ornament for my daughter for her home since she left home, she has the choice of all the ones I have stitched over the year.
Lots of lovely family times to look forward to this year.

Sherri said...

Always good to get a new stitcher! The ornament you stitched for them is adorable and one that I considered stitching for my daughter and future SIL. I agree with you and would like to stitch them an ornament each year. Although this year will be their stitched stockings for their new home. Love, love, love your ornaments and my favorite would be the PS snowman on black in the right hand corner. I think I have that graph as one of the freebie packs that was sold as a group of 8 or so graphs. I'll have to get busy stitching that one. So much to look forward to this year.

Will a stitch said...

Hi Carol. All the beautiful ornaments!! Each is beautifully stitched and finished. Thanks for sharing the ornaments you stitched for your friends. A nice tradition to begin for your son and future DIL. And that she is interested in becoming a stitcher! My daughter did some stitching when she was younger (I think she just wanted to go to stich group!!) But now she just asks me what she is going to do with all the tiny pillows...LOL! Every year I stitch about 12 ornaments for friends. I have my 1st grandchild...so I think I will start a yearly ornament for her too. Lots of fun celebrations ahead for you in 2017. Looking forward to your next post.

Judy Heartland stitcher

Jackie's Stitches said...

I'm SO excited about your future daughter in law loving stitching!!! That is WONDERFUL! Are you going to finish her ladybug and send it back to her?!

The Knitting Cross Stitcher said...

Absolutely gorgeous gifts you gave and received Carol,and how thoughtful of your future daughter in law to personalise her first cross stitch for you.
You and your family have an exciting year to look forward to.
Oh,and I love your header stitching,I admired it when you first showed it,it is a lovely design.

The Queen Bee said...

I love all your little black ornaments. I wish I could stitch on black but it is just too hard for me to see.

The ornament for your son and soon to be DIL is just beautiful.

Congratulations on creating another stitcher! Such a great hobby to have in common. Lucky you.

Pam

Andrea said...

I wish your posts were twice as long! I get a nice cuppa, sit down and savour your stitching. Love all of the ornaments. I especially like the 'Candy Canes' on black, not sure really why as they are all so special. Perhaps as we don't have candy canes over here in the UK, it is an Americaism for us and I am partial to an American design.
You have done well in your mission to recruit another stitcher. If your future DIL continues to produce work as she has done you will have a rival!
Have an enjoyable weekend.

Jennifer said...

I just love seeing all your ornaments - even though that isn't my focus for stitching this year, yours are keeping me motivated to get a few in the mix! I also find that I am liking the PS santas more the more I see them made up as ornaments. Maybe I will have to find one to stitch this year. I am thrilled to hear about your future DIL trying stitching and enjoying it. I imagine my mom felt the same way when I started quilting in my 20s (I've stitched since about 5th grade!). The weather here in Central Indiana is crazy too - temperature swings from 60 to 12 in the last 10 days and freezing rain today - it's a good day to stay inside and do some stitching and sewing!

Margaret said...

First off, I'm soooo glad you're on instagram! :D I'm selfish that way. lol! Love that your future DIL is stitching now! She did a great job on her first stitch! Love seeing all the presents you sent to friends. I do hope the wandering ones turn up in their new homes. So frustrating to have to worry! Your year sounds so exciting! A great 2017 in store!

Mini said...

What beautiful ornaments you have sent to your friends.Love the stitching on black. You have made such a beautiful ornament to commemorate your son's engagement.
I'm so thrilled just at reading that you taught your DIL how to cross stitch and she got hooked. You must be so happy...
Your future DIL is a kind lady to have gifted you her first finish.

Patti said...

I cannot believe how much we have in common! We are the same age, we both have 3 sons and I also have one (it's my youngest though) who lives thousands of miles away and is engaged! Oh, and I also started stitching in my 20's. I have a daughter- in- law who expressed interest in cross stitching but soon after that announced she was pregnant and has had pretty bad morning sickness so she's changed her mind, but maybe in the future she will be interested again. I have a one year old granddaughter and another on the way, so I really hope they will be interested in learning to sew and cross stitch someday!

Brigitte said...

Such a lot of wonderful stitching, Carol. I can't get enough seeing all these great ornaments that you stitched over the years. There is something special about ornaments stitched on black fabric. And very nice to compare how different they look on black or on a bright fabric. I think I have to try it, too. When I was at Zweigart's the last time I bought a piece of black Belfast an I think it's time now. These Prairie Schooler Santas look so good on black.
How wonderful that you have a new stitcher in the family. Her first cross stitch is so sweet.
We have had lots of snow during the last week and it's the first time for years that the nearby ski lift is already running in January. Seems to become a very long winter, sigh.

Penny said...

It does sound as if you have lots of joyful celebrations to look forward to this year! I can't wait to see the sampler you are working on. And as always your stitched ornaments are fabulous! I especially love the ones stitched on black - it really does an excellent job of highlighting the stitching. I had to laugh reading about your bowling outing! Bowling does definitely make you very aware of certain muscles (at least in my case ) : ) How exciting to introduce your future daughter-in-law to stitching - she did a lovely job on her first piece!

Unknown said...

Hello Carol, I have so enjoyed looking at your ornaments shared on Pintrest and have finally decided I would love to have a beautiful tree such as yours filled with them. This is my year to begin, but I find myself at a loss as to how to go about choosing the "trimmings" that make the ornaments so special. Do you have a post you would recommend on how to make these decisions. You make it seem effortless! I wish to thank you so very much for all that you have shared and inspired. A new reader, Elizabeth

Preeti said...

Hi Carol, You made lovely gifts for your friends !! And a beautiful one for your son and DIL too:) Love all your black fabric ornaments!
That's great that your DIL started stitching and she did a great job on her first finish ! She knows how to make her MIL happy :D
I am sure you both are going to have a great bonding time together in future :)
I love reading your posts and most of the time mine are also long posts.

Giovi's Creations said...

Hi Carol! What a lovely post as always! Your mini pillows are so beautiful, and again, have to say, love projects on black fabric :)
And... I'm so happy you've trained a new stitcher for this world! It's important our 'club' add new members! ;) Enjoy these first 2017 weeks... snowing or not (We've a cold week now and in addition, an important flu epidemic...I hope to save myself from that!) Cheers!!Giovi

Irene said...

Carol, i ricami sul nero sono meravigliosi, soprattutto per Natale. Il ricamo non è un hobby per anziani, ci sono tante ragazze giovani appassionate :)

Mavi. said...

Carol, preciosos los bordados en negro, yo me sorprendí cuando los vi en tu cuenta de Instagram, menos mal que has rescatado los santa olvidados y lucen con el resto de las almohadas bordadas. Quedan preciosos.
Enhorabuena por convencer a tu nuera para la causa del punto de cruz, será estupendo tener una maestra como tu y una alumna con muchas ganas de aprender.
Un abrazo.

Paisley said...

Beautiful ornaments!

Kaisievic said...

Oh dear, Carol, I was sure that I had commented on this post already as I certainly read it a few days ago but alas! Obviously my memory is starting to go - oh no! Anyway, fabulous post - I love a long post, especially when it is one that showcases your fabulous stitching. I do so love all of the blackwork ornaments - I must give that a go one day - and I am so impressed by you stitching on it, as I know it can be hard to see whilst stitching. Carol, what a wonderful year you are going to have and such great reasons to be busy. hugs, Kaye

P.S. Can you please tell me the name of the design and designer in your header (and what is the gorgeous blue variegated floss that you have used?)? Many thanks, Kaye

Irmeli said...

How lovely works they all are. Every time I admire your stunning finishes. Everything fits together perfectly, and the result is always wonderful.
I love all the pieces stitched on black fabric, but if I have to choose one it would be a little girl with a candle.
It is really nice that you have a new stitcher in the family. I hope you have many relaxing stitching time together.

I'm also curious what is a wonderful design and what is that blue thread you have in the header?

Sheryl said...

Gorgeous array of ornaments Carol, pretty patterns and lovely finishes. Can´t imagine stitching on black but love your Santa pulling the sled. A joy that your future daughter in law has taken up stitching, it´s fun to share a hobby.

shirley flavell said...

Love all your ornaments, so hard to choose but I am a fan of the PS santas:)I think I will make a commitment to making ornaments this year,so will start off with a PS santa that I'm lucky enough to have.Oh I do hope your DIL will continue on with the stitching, she will have a lot of fun.I might even try some stitching on black. Have a great week.

Rachel said...

You've inspired me to really make a commitment to stitching up some ornaments for next Christmas. These are such beautiful finishes!

The Inspired Stitcher said...

How exciting to add another stitcher to the fold and what fun it will be for the two of you when you get together.

RJ said...

Such beautiful ornaments Carol and always the perfect finish. I really enjoy seeing everything you stitch and finish. What fun to be teaching your future DIL to be a cross stitcher too. I can still remember when my good friend taught me. It brings back great memories. RJ

msmartello said...

Hi Carol,

Your ornaments are just lovely. Hooray! for your future daughter in law.She did a great job on her project.

Sally said...

What a wonderful post Carol. I am always in awe of how beautifully you stitch and finish things. Gorgeous gifts for your friend.

So happy to hear that your future daughter in law has taken up stitching..

We had a little snow the other week but it soon went as it turned to rain. I was so disappointed. Other areas of the country got more.

Susan Lankford said...

Hi...this is my first time to see your blog and I am blown away by your gorgeous work! I just got back into cross stitching after a few years away...mainly because of card making...your blog just warms my heart!

rebelrosecreations@gmail.com said...

Beautiful Stitching! Love how you finished them. Happy Stitching!
http://christiescrossstitchcreations.blogspot.com/

Rachel said...

Lovely stitching and beautiful finishes! Yay for your DIL!

Babs said...

Lovely stitching. You have some nice finishes. Love, Babs