Changing Seasons

When DH and I travel he likes to do the driving and I pass the time sewing and reading and admiring the countryside. I usually manage to pack along a penny rug project but on the last couple of trips I've tried doing counted cross-stitch. It can be a bit challenging getting the needle in the correct hole, especially on the bumpier roads, but I was happy with the progress I made on my latest piece, another Blackbird Designs pattern. With the work I was able to do during the trip I should be able to complete this by Halloween!

The blob on the lower right is actually the beginning of a jack-o-lantern and the verse refers to its gleam. There are so many wonderful fall and Halloween patterns that I'd love to tackle, but since my upcoming shows takes place just before and after Halloween, I know I'll need to start working on some Christmas designs soon. Here's what I found at Old Mill Stitchery in Liberty, Missouri, when we stopped there on the way home from Michigan.

Lovely Overdyed Linen!

The quaint building that houses the stitchery shop also has shops selling beads, yarn, wool, rug hooking patterns and an antiques store. Kind of a one-stop shop for lovers of all things primitive.

Footstool with velvet cushion

Stitchin' in the Car

Over the past three months, we have done a lot of driving around the country to see friends and relatives. Before every trip, I try to get at least a couple of sewing projects assembled so I can stitch as DH drives

Bird Pillow

I'm very happy with the way this pillow, a Maggie Bonanomi design, turned out. I love the primitive look which the browns and muted colors lends to this pillow.

Strawberry Mat

What would summer be without strawberries? Last year I discovered the Primitive Gatherings gals and their designs and couldn't wait to get their latest book, Summer Gatherings. I like the use of tiny stitches with gold floss to simulate the berry seeds. And this goes great with my little primitive spatterware bowl.

Room for Us?

Our last car trip was to pick up our son from college in Michigan, take him to orchestra camp in beautiful northern Indiana, and return home with his stuff. This is what was left after he removed his duffle bag and quad trumpet case.

Works in Progress

I hope to spend the next few weeks in my studio completing many of the projects I've begun on our trips!