"Pals Stitching at the Beach" is artfully coordinated by Amy Whitaker, owner of Down Sunshine Lane needlework shop, and she manages to pack a lot of activity and surprises into the retreat. It was wonderful today to see friends from last year (like Jean, Beth, Maggie, Sharon, Sherry, Diane, Judy, Charlene, Diane, Myra, and many more) and to begin new friendships with many first-timers. (It's easy for me to call them that because that was me last year!) Several designers, including Marie Driskell (Blackberry Lane Designs), Isabella Argante (all the way from Italy; The Primitive Hare), and Tanya Brockmeyer (The Scarlett House), have also joined us and brought so many wonderful charts, kits, accessories, and more for us to "ooh" and "aah" over and to buy. What a treat to be able to visit with these very talented ladies!
In amongst the shopping, the chatting, and a wonderful dinner at P.F. Chang's (my first; I'll go back soon!), I did manage to get some stitching in! First up is a stocking released this year by Raise the Roof called "Tate's Stocking" (click on the chart title to see a finished version). Here's what I've been able to complete today:
In the afternoon, I wanted to work on something that I had a good chance of finishing today. I brought all of The Victoria Sampler's "Button Up Birdie" charts that DH gave me last year for Christmas. I love the patterns and have been itching to get busy on them. I started with #1, which includes a chickadee and a cardinal. Here's what I was able to complete before the "official" end of Day 1:
Almost finished! I just need to add a little more backstitching (beak, red yard from mittens) and beads/buttons. Love it, love it!
Time to get some shut-eye so that I can get up and do it all again tomorrow! I hope you're making time to take up your needle and sew!
Becky
It was nice to meet you and join in for dinner last night. It was good, wasn't it? See you later.
ReplyDeleteI have that Button Up Birdie in my stash. I've got too much in my stash ... lol! And I had no idea you were Raise the Roof! Love your designs & that stocking is a "must stitch."
ReplyDeleteHi Shirlee, thanks so much for your kind words! Just to clarify, I'm not "Raise the Roof" - just a stitcher who enjoys those designs. Theresa Venette down in Hattiesburg, MS, is the creative talent behind "Raise the Roof."
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