Mixing Passions

Isn't it wonderful when you can mix two or more things that bring you pleasure? I am having so much fun with my embroidery! The "Lady" is almost done. She is turning out ok for a first project. I am really happy to be perfecting my stitches, as the Masterpiece Quilt will have ample stitching in the blocks. I had dug my floss container out from when I did counted cross stitch. Organized IS good, but it is great that I did not throw this away years ago!
I ran some errands yesterday and made a quick stop at Joanne's. It was right next door to the pet store so how could I not go in? Carly needed food after only 4 1/2 days! She is a good eater! Anyway, I added about 5 colors to my collection. 2 reds, as I could NOT believe I did not own one. Lots of pinks, but no true reds. I also picked up a few skeins for Charlotte's next project. I am really excited about the Flower of the Month quilt blocks, but I do not want to start them until I am satisfied with my stitching. I have alot of stitches to learn and perfect. You can see Joni's finished Flower of the Month Quilt here. It is very inspiring. She is sending me a book she used to learn the stitches. I am as excited as my kids on Christmas Eve!! So...I also picked up a few pattern packets to practice on.

2 patterns for tea towels and some flowers and butterflies for pillowcases. These will make great Christmas gifts! Look at that Fancy Peacock!! I am not a big peacock fan, but that pattern is incredible!

Now the best part of the trip was my daughter in law Rachel. She has never really been interested in quilting. She loves quilts, but she understands how much work they are when done by hand. That is all she has seen as I am the only quilter in her life. While picking these patterns she asked if this was for the same kind of project as the "Lady". I told her it was and she said, "I would like to do that." You don't have to say that twice!! Before you could bat an eyelash, I was having her pick a project and some floss. She wants to do some Backyardigans wall hangings for TJ's room. He loves the tv show and it sounded like a good project. I told her we could search online for coloring pages to use as patterns. She knew the colors she would need and started picking them. Floss was on sale 4 for $1. Good for me ;) We also grabbed a hoop and needles. I have an extra floss organizer and cards, so she is set.
Between Charlotte and Rachel, my family will soon be creating beautiful works of art all over the place! Zach said firmly, "My hobby is my game boy!" I guess you can only go so far! I will leave you with this picture of my Grandson, TJ, watching his beloved Backyardigans while waiting for his lunch. You can imagine how pleased he will be with his Mommy's new project!