Hands To Work Journal

grrrr

2007-03-31T12:02:00.000-04:00

Okay, the link that I posted for the new blog doesn't work. So manually type in www.handstowork.typepad.com and you should get there.
Later....

new blog

2007-03-31T11:59:00.000-04:00

Hi all, I'm trying out a new blog. I love it as it's so much easier to post pictures and add links. Go to www.handstowork.typepad.com and let me know what you think.
Happy Saturday!

What is Bliss?

2007-03-29T15:15:00.000-04:00

Bliss is two great danes running through a field at top speed, stopping ocassionally to make sure the owners are still there and finishing up the run with a dip in a dirty pond. Courtney and I took Chloe and Violet for a long walk today and they were so happy. And dirty. And came home sleepy! Oh how I wish Maggie was still up to the long walks. Her hips are just too weak to do it any longer. But in her younger days....she would have been swimming in the pond until I forced her out!

I have learned to knit! I have to tell you that I turned up my nose at knitting for the longest time and now I can't stop! It's so addicting. And for you wonderful customers who have been patiently waiting for your orders of journals and mermaids, I'm finishing up the orders today. I have had to hide the yarn so I can get some real work done.

I have so many ideas for new designs floating around my head. But nothing has made it into the design program on the computer. I'm going to do better...I'm going to do better. Really what I wish is that you all could come over, sit in my family room with me and knit all day!

Happy, happy weekend!

I'm Proud To Be From West Virginia!

2007-03-08T13:26:00.000-05:00

I received this from an email this morning and thought I would share. For all you Mountaineers out there...enjoy!
Because of our mountains, we have rivers. The oldest river in theWestern Hemisphere, the New River (quite appropriately named, don't youthink) ends in West Virginia. We have the Gauley River, which confluence'swith the New River in a magnificent cascade to form the Kanawha River, whichin turn flows through the center of the State, and directly through thecapital city of Charleston, the largest city in West Virginia. These riversin addition to the Cheat, Blackwater, Tygart, Monongahela, Ohio andcountless others offer tremendous recreational opportunities.The tallest building in Charleston is barely 25 floors tall! ,which, ifyou think about it, is a plus; how could you possibly build askyscraper more beautiful than a mountain?The capital city stretches throughout the long river valleyencompassingboth hill and dale.The Charleston airport, the largest in the State, sits on top of a mountain. The crime rate in Charleston, including the entirepopulation of the Kanawha Valley (around 200,000), reflects that of theentire State, the lowest in America. No more than a handful of murders are committed each year.Charleston has no subway systems, but, truth be known, you can get from one end of town to the other, even in rush hour traffic, in less than ten minutes.There are three major interstate systems going through Charleston,the smallest city in America to make such a claim.The entire State has six different interstate systems, meaning, from Charleston, you can reach Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati,Pittsburgh, Louisville or Charlotte in four hours or less....Ah, but once you leave the interstates, the drive becomes a thing of wonder. Two lane roads, winding up and down the mountains, offer amazing views and historic places, small towns, poor in wealth but rich in history.West Virginia is the birthplace of Mother's Day, in Grafton; and Father'sDay, in Fairmont.We have the oldest covered bridge still in use. We have walnutfestivals. strawberry festivals, apple festivals and pumpkin festivals andbuckwheat festivals , and arts and crafts fairs and stern wheel regattas and ramp dinners.We have Bridge Day, on the New River Gorge Bridge over 800 feetabove the New River; the only standing structure in the United States that, one day a year, allows parachuting and bungee jumping.We have college basketball, and minor league baseball and hockey, and, just like all of America, Friday night high school football.We have white water rafting, and skiing, and hiking, and caves, and waterfalls, and camping in every direction. We have Sundays where a leisurely drive in the car can take eight hours, and only cover 100 miles.We have bed and breakfasts, and resorts, and golf courses, andmuseums, and the Greenbrier Hotel. West Virginia has more natural beauty and wonder than any person could ever imagine.We have all of this, and yet .... our greatest asset is our people.West Virginians are good people. We care about each other. We talk to our neighbors over the backyard fence.We grow tomatoes for the entire neighborhood. We turn around in each other's driveways, and yell "howdy" when we do.We sit on the porch on warm summer evenings, listening to crickets, and watching kids catch fireflies.We loan a hammer, or a cup of sugar. We don't take two-hour lunches, but we do spend a few minutes each day with a cup of coffee, and our feet upon our desk, shooting the breeze.We rarely get in a hurry. We have relatives just down the street. We don't just loan someone a socket wrench, we help them fix their car. Weshare recipes, and gardening tips, and our last cup of coffee. We baby-sit each other's kids, we housesit each other's dogs while we're on vacation, and we loan each other our cars if we have to get to the drugstore.We ask each other if we need anything as we're going to the market.We celebrate each others accomplishments, and we cry over eachother's disappointments.We are a friendly folk. We are West Virginians.Mountaineers are always free! Free to take the time to enjoy life,and hold each moment in our hearts, forever.

Niky's Stitching

2007-02-26T13:10:00.000-05:00

Niky from Italy sent these pictures to me ages ago and I promptly lost them in the computer somewhere. So when I saw her in Nashville, I asked her to resend. Aren't they wonderful?! She is a wonderful stitcher and just as cute as can be! Thanks Niky!!!

Look At This

2007-02-19T21:22:00.000-05:00

Lori from La D Da has a fantastic purse she made from the Ida Nolt design and I've been lusting for it since last year. I've asked for it but she won't share. So I decided to take the directions that she gave me and have someone make my own. When I was looking for lining fabric for the design I found a Moda purse purchased from a quilt shop and whip stitched Florwers For Thee on the front. Cute, huh? I can't wait to go out tomorrow with it!

Was Love In The Air...

2007-02-16T20:17:00.000-05:00

For you??? I wish I could say that my Valentine's Day was thrilling but the reality was frozen lasagna thrown in the oven and early bed time. Woo Hoo!
I'm still digging out from Nashville boxes and ice. We got about five inches of sleet and have been walking on top of it since Thursday. The mail lady and newspaper lady are both having a hard time getting to the mail box/paper box. Out of desperation I spent about 45 minutes pounding the ice off of my car and told Chuck that it was like the Dukes of Hazard when I backed out of the driveway! I was getting out and would do what ever it took!
I took my camera to Nashville but have no pictures to show. Well, the only ones I got were of my room once it was put together but Courtney is "modeling" in the pictures and I'm sure she would be mortified if I showed them! We both had a fantastic time in Nashville. My room was beside Barb and Alma of Blackbird Designs. What a treat that was! They are the most fun girls. We had a great time. Courtney and I made them a special gift (as well as for Paulette, Breanna, Cathy Campbell, Liz and Kathy Barrick). But it's up to all of them to share what it was. Lots of silliness though!
I didn't get to many of the rooms as there just isn't enough time. But what I brought home is fabulous! Paulette's new designs were amazing. The Dead Man's Chess was unbelievable. About a million stitches I think. Kathy's girls were awesome. Much bigger in real life than they seem in the pictures. My favorite was her Quaker Study. I plan on stitching that as soon as I finish the repro that I'm working on now. Cathy Campbell had beautiful things as well. A repro, a beautiful over one sampler for her mother but my favorite of her things were the accessories. A check book cover, eye glass case and card case. Those will be stitched by me as well. And trust me, the pictures on the internet do NOT do them justice. I picked up the "Quaker School Girl Samplers from Ackworth" book from Edna Medlin's room. She had some wonderful antique samplers for sale but I was good and refrained from buying any. La-D-Da Lori had amazing new releases and the most clever puzzle that she made from her Alphabet sampler. Barbara Hutson was in the Lakeside Linen room with her repro Maryland samplers. I got Sands House Sampler which is so beautiful. It has a freehand border with chain stitch which I can't seem to do. But need to learn so I can stitch this piece one of these days. I ordered Counting Book and Counting Book Sampler from Cynthia of Little By Little. Her room is always so cool and Carmen and Candy make it even more so! Wish I had more time to look as I know there was so much more to see and buy.
I came home from the market newly excited about my little design business. I had such a bad year last year and am ready to get back into some creative thinking! I have a few designs started already and lots of ideas churning around in my head.
I also have some things worked out for the retreat. I will be getting info on the front page very soon and will start taking reservations just as soon as I get a total together.
Thanks to all of you for your support. I am very, very lucky to have so many new friends. Enjoy all of your new market purchases and get busy stitching!

Last One!

2007-02-07T19:29:00.000-05:00

Winter Blooms....whew, I'm almost ready to leave. Courtney and I get on the road at 7 AM. So I'm finishing up the packing and Chuck is loading the car. Can't wait to see everyone!

Two more

2007-02-06T10:28:00.000-05:00

Hannah Miller's sampler and My Beloved Tennessee

Education

2007-02-03T18:01:00.000-05:00

I love this reproduction. It's stitched on 32 count vintage Exampler linen from Lakeside Linens and Designs using two strands of Black Coffee overdyed thread (Crescent Colours)over two threads of linen. Even though this is a smallish sampler, it took six skeins of Black Coffee to complete! Thank you so much JoAnn Ambrose for your fabulous stitching of the sampler!!!

The verse reads:
'Tis Education forms the common mind
Just as the twig is bent the trees incline
Ann Maria Rathbone 1834

Snow!...well, a little

2007-02-02T17:51:00.000-05:00

We got a little dusting of snow today. I love it! But of course it wasn't enough. I'm hoping that we will still get a few big snows. Not next week though, I have a long drive!!!
I am still printing and packing up charts. Getting things in order much faster this year. I'm so happy about that! I thought I would show a picture of one of my designs that I'm releasing. This is Anna Stonebreaker. The original belongs to Courtney's grandmother in law. It's a beautiful piece. I hate to give up the repro as it will be going to shops in the trunk show. Might have to stitch another!
I will be adding more photos this weekend. I have two friends that are coming over in a bit to help me pack up charts and I have to get ready!

I resolve to....

2007-01-24T23:03:00.000-05:00

Some times I have to write things down to actually get them done. So my new project when I get home from Nashville is to completely gut my office, paint it and decorate it and make it a happy place. Right now it's a mess and even when it's clean and tidy it's UGLY! No wonder I can't feel the creative spirit any more. Wow, I feel better already. I'm looking for ideas on storage. Please send me links as I need lots of shelves!
I want to share this picture with you. I think I've told you all that I have two bunnies. Norman lives in the garage at the moment until his new hutch if completed as he and his brother Howard fought. Well, now that Noman is so accessible I feel bad that he's in the garage in a little cage all by himself so I let him in every once in a while. He loves it. He chases the cats and cuddles up to Maggie and knows where his food bag is kept. Do you think he is spoiled????

I'm not a cheater!

2007-01-15T10:08:00.000-05:00

Courtney, Elisabeth and I ran in a 5K race on Saturday and I accidentally tried to finish the race too early. The course was two laps around a track but so many people (actually teenage boys) were running through the finish line that I thought maybe I misunderstood and it was time to stop. So I tried. Once they pushed me on my way to the second lap, someone yelled "Cheater!". I'm sure they were laughing. Well, I hope they were. One guy did yell "Good Try!". I thought so too! Anyway, wanted to publically announce that I am not a cheater. And that 3 point whatever miles (5K) is very, very long for a 46 year old woman!!!

I got talked into planning my family reunion this year. Ugh. I swore I would never do it again. How do things like this happen? Anyway, we are going to stay at this really nice place in West Virginia called The Woods . You can see the resort at www.TheWoodsResort.com I'm looking for a few activities that we can do so if anyone has any suggestions, please email me.

I'm making these cool journals for Nashville and am having the best time. I'm going to Paper Source in Georgetown this Friday to pick up more supplies. At this point it is fun but a week before the market it will cease to be fun anymore. I have printed out so many charts. And am still graphing charts. So much to do! Wish everyone could come to the market. It is a blast.
One last day of warm weather in Virginia. It's to be 67! today but then the winter should arrive tomorrow. Finally. The plants just don't know what to do. Cherry trees have been blooming, my rose bushes are covered in new leaves and bulbs are popping up. I saw forsythia in bloom yesterday. Hope our area apple crop doesn't get ruined. California orange growers are having a very hard time right now.
Have a great week and stay warm!

Awesome Photo

2007-01-11T15:09:00.000-05:00

I am not a great photographer. But every once in a while I get lucky. Two years ago, the girls and I flew down to FL to visit my parents and I thought it was so beautiful to see them walking together in step. As I try to improve what I see and how I crop the pictures I take, I am so excited when something amazing works out without even trying!

Working, working, working away at new releases for Nashville!

Busy, Busy, Busy

2007-01-08T13:13:00.000-05:00

Crunch time is here! Nashville is just a few weeks away and I have so much to do! I will be panicked in no time. But my family is used to this and have come to expect it!
I was very lucky to be a part of Kathy Barrick Dieter's surprise birthday party last weekend. It was a great time and Kathy looked gorgeous! Above is a picture of Kathy, Liz, Trudy (Mom)and other family members. Unfortunately I don't have a picture of Kathy with the crown that I made for her...it was fabulous and she looked fabulous in it! I'm sure she is happy that I don't have that picture!
As market time gets closer, I will post pictures of what designs I will be releasing. Keep checking back!
One more thing, thanks so much to all of you that kept checking with me about my dad. He had surgery the week of Christmas and all went well. He will need one more appointment with an oncologist before heading out for Florida where he and my Mom will be until spring. He just turned 82!

Merry Christmas!

2006-12-22T15:41:00.000-05:00

My Kitchen

2006-12-14T14:32:00.000-05:00

This is a picture of my almost finished kitchen. I LOVE it. We still have to install the wood ceiling and finish the trim and a little paint touch ups here and there. But it is soooo much better than before.
I am working hard on designs for Nashville. It's hard to believe that it's approaching so quickly. In between I'm decorating the house and still shopping for gifts. I've had a very hard time getting my shopping done.
I have some news about the retreat. There are some changes for 2007 and the biggest one is the date. It will now be held during the first weekend of October. I believe it's the 5-7th...Friday-Sunday. I'm firming things up with the teachers so you will be hearing more about that soon.

It's only been two months....

2006-12-01T23:41:00.000-05:00

Since my last post! Time flies when you are busy. I will share pics of what I've been doing since we last talked. Enjoy!

We Have A WINNER!!!

2006-10-02T15:11:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to Carmen Sutton of Knoxville TN! Woo Hoo! I will be sending out her ruler in tomorrow's mail. Keep reading the blog as I will have another contest soon.

Come on, Just one more post!

2006-10-02T14:31:00.000-04:00

I have eleven posts but the ninth person to post accidently posted twice. So I need one more post for a winner for the scrim ruler! Come on guys, someone jump in!
After the winner's name is posted, I will write about my awesome Martha weekend.

For Sale

2006-09-27T12:46:00.000-04:00

I have been organizing since my kitchen if FINALLY painted....not finished but painted. Anyway, the clean up and organize bug has hit. So I have a few offers for you. First of all, the TENTH person to comment on this blog will receive a FREE SCRIM RULER!!! Woo Hoo! How's that for generosity??? The rest will be sold on a first come first serve basis. And due to the fragility of the scrim, I will ship priority mail which is an extra $4.05. The crocheted pins will be shipped as inexpensively as possible and I will let you know what the cost is when you email me. Okay...the two rulers available are from my retreats. One says A Strawberry Weekend and has a bird holding a strawberry in his mouth. The other design says Bee Kind Bee True 2006 and has the same bird holding a bee skep in his mouth. Each ruler is hand made by Marcy Pumphret from antique piano keys and costs $24.00. The thread winder (only two left) has the strawberry bird and costs $34.00. Same shipping applies. If you buy multiples, you will only pay the actual shipping.
The four crocheted pins were made by my mother...the QUEEN of crochet! She used perle cotton and the tiny purses have old buttons from her collection. I painstakenly made the mounting cards using book board and acid free paper. The purse pin is $22 and the sunflower is $15. Aren't they the coolest?
Remember to post your comments and the TENTH post will win a ruler!!!

Violet

2006-09-27T10:30:00.000-04:00

I got a phone call yesterday morning from Courtney telling me that since I thought Violet was so cute then I could have her! Guess she only let Courtney get a little over an hour of sleep! I didn't say I told you so! But it's always harder when you add the second "child".
The picture above is of baby Violet on my lap shortly after Courtney picked her up. She is six weeks old and so tiny! I wish I had a picture of her beside Chloe. It's hard to believe that she will grow to be so big...and so quickly!

Martha, family and other news

2006-09-25T12:56:00.000-04:00

I was posting so well there for a while. Then life interrupted! I wish I knew how to be one of those super organized, always on top of everything kind of girls. Chuck says I always am trying to do too many things at once which is probably right.
On early Friday morning I will be flying to New York City to be in the audience of the Martha Stewart show. I'm going with my good buddy Brenda Miller who is a huge fan of Martha! Just so you know, I will be wearing a brown sweater set and brown glen plaid slacks. And the cutest shoes ever! I got these http://www.eddiebauer.com/eb/product.asp?product_id=30263&nv=3|21473|104&lview=&color=245*Tan&cm_cg=C104&tid=&c=&sc=&lp=v1i010 and they look just fabulous with skirts and slacks!!! I am the pickiest shoe person ever as I have big feet which make me soooo self concious. Silly isn't it? Who cares?...but that's my thing. So when I find something that I like, I'm thrilled! Then on Saturday, Brenda and I will be doing an all day Good Things workshop with Martha and her staff! I am going to learn flower arranging. Brenda thought it was best that she do the holiday table setting class when I asked if paper plates would be used. Ha!
I spent this past weekend in Fairmont with my family. We had a great time! All my kids were there and my siblings. We had a cook out on Saturday with Mom and Dad and then Sunday after church, went to Chuck's Mom and had a delicious meal of ham (my favorite!!!) and all the trimmings. YUM! Chloe and Maggie were very well behaved. Maggie is having some real issues with her hips and was miserable on Saturday. But perked up Sunday and is glad to be back home today.
Speaking of the dogs, Chloe will have a new baby sister this afternoon. Courtney and John will be picking up Violet from the breeder. She is a six week old great dane with a merle coat which for those that don't know..including me until recently...is a grey coat with black spots. She will certainly make Chloe's life interesting I'm sure. Chloe has been queen of her universe for three years and will probably be quite put out by a new puppy. Guess Courtney will eventually work up to a human baby! LOL!
Watch for puppy and Martha pictures coming soon! In the meantime, here is a picture of Elisabeth and her boyfriend Carey with me trying to be a camera hog!

Happy Labor Day

2006-09-04T08:52:00.000-04:00

My Dad took so many pictures of my brothers, sister and me when we were little but he put every thing on slides. So I've been slowly having them put onto cds so I can print and share them. It costs a fortune but isn't it fun to look at old pictures!
We didn't float away over the weekend from Ernesto. I haven't heard the final total of rain but luckily for us, the heaviest rain stayed east. I have more flowers blooming now than I have had all summer! So I'm trying to enjoy them before the frost comes. The weather is cooler and I have the cooking, cleaning, redecorating bug. I get it every fall. I love, love, love having my windows open again. I really do not like being in air conditioning all the time. But with the thermostat in my body set at HIGH now, I can't seem to get out of it when the temperature outside gets over 80.
I am babysitting my grand dog Chloe starting this weekend for a week. Courtney and John are going with his family to Charleston SC. Courtney will be getting a new puppy in a few weeks so I will soon be watching two great danes! It will be interesting to see how Chloe reacts to Violet the new baby dane. Chloe is the most loving dog I have ever seen and I think her feelings will be so hurt when Courtney brings Violet home. I'll show you pictures soon.
Poor Chuck worked all weekend and is exhausted. He is still in bed...so I am enjoying a few minutes alone. I think we are going to go for a drive today. I love to drive out to the country and look at farms. Of course I am dreaming that someday I will live in one!
Happy Labor Day! And good luck to all the little ones going back to school!!!

Running

2006-09-02T13:29:00.000-04:00

I'm running! I won't call myself a runner yet as I just started but I STARTED! Courtney has been after me for a while to do it as I have been whining and whining about not fitting in my clothes all of a sudden. So I dressed up in my sports bra, Nike running socks, tshirt and shoe and took off in the rain. I surprised myself how far I managed to run! Now I have a calendar on the refridgerator to mark my walk/run progress and will put on fun stickers to keep me motivated. Notice how it doesn't take much to amuse me! Give me stickers and pretty paper and I will do anything! Now that I've announced this publicly, guess I have to stick with it. If you want to start and don't know how to do it, go to this cool web site: www.runnermom.com. There is a ton of good information to help.
My trunk show is now in Pennsylvania....Shelley at Covered Bridge NeedleArts in Bridgewater has my models for the whole month. Stop by and see Shelley and her new store, I hear it's fantastic!
I'm tired now and have to nap.....

Come See Me!

2006-08-26T18:29:00.000-04:00

I will have a small booth set up at the Harvest Faire in the Valley in Stephens City VA on September 9th from 10am to 5pm. You can find out more information about this fabulous day at www.themillerhouse.net. Brenda is putting together a fun filled day with the likes of Kathy Barrick-Dieter (carriagehousesamplings.com), Barb Stein (www.steinscountrycollectibles.com), Penn Woods Pottery (www.pennwoodspottery.com) and more. There will be food, a blue grass band, flowers and herbs from Sunflower Cottage, jewelry and other fabulous goodies. I can't wait. Brenda plans to do this every September and already is working on her artist list for next year. So if you plan on being in the area, stop by to say hello. It will be worth the drive!
You can call Brenda at 540-869-2148 for more details and directions.

This and That

2006-08-22T13:28:00.000-04:00

I am working for Social Security this week and I have to tell you all, I like working from home much better. Getting up, dressed, make up on and being totally responsible all day is just not for me! I have to work again next week so I'm sure by September I will be exhausted. LOL! I know, I know, I'm a whimp.
Anyway, I've gotten everything shipped out from the Charlotte market and am up to date AND have charted TWO repro samplers. One is being stitched now and I'm waiting on Lakeside Linen for the second. I also have a great design in my head. If I can just get it onto paper, I'm sure it will be magnificent!
I was visiting Carol Sims last weekend and while there admiring all of her samplers, asked if she knew how many she has hanging on her walls. I got an email from her the other day as she had to count them. 213 plus one at the framer, three ready to go to the framers and two at a friends for finishing. WOW! I am sure next time I am there that I could slip a few little ones in my purse and she wouldn't notice for a while. She is one amazing woman!
I'm off to the back yard to water my crunchy grass and perrenials. I'm trying to salvage some of my flowers. It's so very dry here. Many of the trees are dropping their leaves already. Wish I knew a rain dance...
Have a good week!

Scrapbooks and Samplers

2006-08-17T12:06:00.000-04:00

I have a new obsession. Anyone that knows me knows that my obsessions run the gamut of the crafting spectrum! And now it's journaling/scrapbooking. I took a fabulous class from Barb and Alma (Blackbird Designs) at Liberty Gathering in June and after years of avoiding paper and stickers and inks and stamps I got sucked right in! Then while in Charlotte for the Charlotte Needlework Market, I visited two super fantastic scrapbooking stores and handed over a big chunk of change. LOL, change! Dollars...lots and lots of them. But I got to thinking about what we do, we stitchers. We love fibers and color and just handling our charts. And then after spending time and money and thougt on picking just the right pieces, we put it all together to make a precious heirloom. It's our form of scrapbooking. Don't we each know what was happening in our lives while we stitched our piece? And what about our baby samplers, memorial samplers and even our little fun stitches. We put our names, the date and initials of our loved ones on the fabric to be framed to last we hope for generations. Do we remember to write these things down? Even if it's a scrap of paper adhered to the back of our stitching. That way when our great granddaughter is thrilled to be handed Great Grandmother Tracy's sampler, she will feel even closer to the past when she discovers that I was mourning the loss of my family member, celebrating a wedding or just agonizing over my life at the moment. Think about it and let me know how you save your memories for the future!

YIKES!!!!!!

2006-08-15T09:06:00.000-04:00

Bonnie Olson just called to let me know that I made a huge mistake in one of my charts. Dang it! In Forbeare Not Sowing, I put in a chart showing the over one section of the lettering. But the symbols are completely different. Well, go by the symbols in the full chart. Geesh! I will be happy to replace any charts that have gotten out so far. So sorry.

Thanks!

2006-08-15T08:30:00.000-04:00

I want to thank all the shopowners and other designers that took the time and money to travel to Charlotte and participate in the Charlotte cash and carry market. It was quite small this year but still worth every minute of work! It is so good for the industry to have these shows. It gives the shop owner a chance to see models, find out what is new, what is up and coming. And it gives the designer a chance to talk to shop owners about what they want, what customers have been asking for and what direction the market is going. I am always amazed at these shows to see the incredible talent that is out there.
I have much to do now that I'm home. Orders to fill, class projects to work on and new designs to finish. Happy day!

one more picture

2006-08-09T16:29:00.000-04:00

Courtney's neice Sara came for a visit today. She loved Howard and Norman (the bunnies)! I thought this was such a sweet picture that I had to share!

a bit of thanks

2006-08-08T23:00:00.000-04:00

I have so many friends and well wishers and nice aquaintances. But this is true friendship. Two girls from church...Linda and Jan....came to my house tonight and helped me stuff a million charts. Okay, not a million but a LOT. And I still had my pjs on! They did appreciate that I had a on a bra! But my hair is yukky, I have a stain on the shirt that I slept in and am generally a SKANK. Not a problem for them. They plopped right down on my living room floor and worked until 10! Am I lucky or what?!
Okay, here is one more picture. It's not a good one and I'm going to retake tomorrow. It's called Spring Violets and I wish you could see it in person...the frame from Colleen at Hog River really makes the design! This is it for my new designs but I have some ideas swimming around in my head. Hope I don't loose them in all the other flotsam that's in there!!!

One Flag

2006-08-08T22:05:00.000-04:00

A sampler with the verse, One Flag one land one heart one hand one nation evermore. Stitched on 40 count Korty's Special Blend from R&R Reproductions using Needlepoint Silk. The frame is by Hog River.
I know, I know...the fabric isn't centered. That's because UPS only delivered the frames to me TODAY and I quickly stretched it this evening between stuffing charts. I could not stretch fabric for a living....YUK!

Hark!

2006-08-08T15:13:00.000-04:00

Here is my very first punch needle design. What fun! I used Weeks Dye Works #5 Perle Cotton. I loved using it....no strands to fool with.

Forbeare Not Sowing

2006-08-06T21:11:00.000-04:00

This is another of my designs that I'm releasing this weekend. Ugh, it hurts to say this weekend as I have about two weeks worth of work to do before this weekend. Anyway, this is a teeny tiny little sampler that I've shown mounted on a paper covered box and as an ornament. And I give you the instructions on covering your box with paper. The verse reads Forbeare not sowing because of birds.
Every once in a while I come across something that I love and have to share. I recently read The Other Boleyn Girl by Philipa Gregory and I highly recommend it! I was disappointed when it finished. I've read some of her other books but this one is by far the best!
Off to print more charts!

Daughters

2006-08-05T14:49:00.000-04:00

Here is a picture of my two daughters Elisabeth and Courtney with Courtney's nephew Will. Elisabeth is thinking of moving back to our hometown in WV as she is in such a rut here. She broke up with her long time boyfriend and can't seem to bounce back. I'm trying sooooo hard to be supportive but there is only so much moping a mother can take! So think good thoughts for my little Elisabeth and me too!

Could it be any more fun????

2006-08-02T09:48:00.000-04:00

Than to spend a day with four other crazy women??? Sue McLaughlin, Kathy Barrick-D, Carol Sims, Siobhan (geesh, sorry Soybean but I can't remember your last name!!! Everyone knows you anyway :0)and I spent the day together yesterday. I was exhausted by the time I got home. We laughed, snorted, laughed some more. It was if we had known each other forever! What a special day.
You can see a picture on Kathy's site www.carriagehousesamplings.com I forgot my camera. I'm the tall dorky one!

Look!

2006-08-02T08:57:00.000-04:00

Carmen Sutton sent me a picture of a draw string bag that she put together for me. It's a fully lined bag with my logo on the front. I love it! She will also be doing the zippered bags for me. It's so wonderful to be buddies with someone that can finish!

Oh the joy...

2006-07-31T12:51:00.000-04:00

The joy of being a woman! The list is endless...and lucky me, I've moved on to the next on the list. Menopause. Pause is right as I am STUCK in HOT! I sweat when I sleep, when I get out of bed, if I touch any one, when I'm standing in front of the fan with the ac so low that there is a sheen of frost on the windows, and even when I'm cold! Today it's to get to ONE HUNDRED and ONE degrees. If the power goes out then I think I will melt away into nothing!
Just whining......

Chloe and Howard

2006-07-29T11:54:00.000-04:00

Chloe, my great dane grand dog, came for a visit yesterday and had fun playing with one of my new bunnies. She just about sniffed the fur off of Howard! Courtney had fun holding Howard but his brother Norman preferred to stay in the hutch. They are so much fun! And are doing a great job producing bunny pellets for my garden. Our grass is just about dried up with the heat we have been having. Chuck is happy as he doesn't have to mow!
I've had some questions about my zippered bags that will be at the Charlotte market. I will post a picture as soon as I can. Carmen is working very hard to get lots made. But at least she can stay in with the air conditioning!
Off to stitch....

Pictures!

2006-07-28T15:54:00.000-04:00

The first picture is called Liberty and is stitched on 35 count 18th Century Rook by R&R using The Gentle Art overdyed threads.
The second pic is called A Big Red House. It's stitched on 36 count Autumn Gold by Lakeside Linens using Needlepoint Silk. My favorite part is the "blooming B" as Liz Mathews called it.
As soon as I get the others in their frames I will put more pictures up for you to see!
Tracy

well gee whiz!

2006-07-26T15:55:00.000-04:00

Here are the two web site addresses that I tried to include in the last post. To view The Big Picture where I am taking my online class, go to: www.thebigpicturescrapbooking.com. For a wonderful online scrabook store, visit Mary Beth at www.scrapbooksupplystore.com.
Tracy

Catching up...

2006-07-26T14:53:00.000-04:00

Wow, a lot has happened since I last posted. It always suprises me how much time has passed since my last entry. And to think that I promised to do better!
I was a lucky girl and able to go to Liberty Gathering in Liberty MO and Primitives of the Midwest in Lee's Summit MO. Both events were fantastic! Well put together, great teachers and fun details that made it special to be a part of. I traveled with three great friends, one of which made her very first airplane ride. This was the first time we had done anything like this and we managed perfectly! Lots of laughing and LOTS of spending!!! I took a class from the primitive goddess Maggie Bonanomi and the quilt goddesses Barb Adams and Alma Allen of Blackbird Designs. Wonderfully fun!
One of the classes that Barb and Alma taught was journaling. I am not a scrapbooker, never wanted to be. It always seemed to cutsey and strict for me. Well, B&A have completely changed my mind. I'm in a scrapbook frenzy. Well, more journaling than scrapbooking...but fun! I've even signed up for an online class with Donna Downey. Here is the info about it....can't wait to get started: Then I found many great online shops since we don't have a scrap store in this area. Mary Beth Lemley is the owner of and her customer service can't be beat! Okay, enough about another addiction!
So I have been behind all summer because I traveled more than usual. And was in the hot weather slump. I had planned on having a design out in June but only got it back from the framer today. So it's going to market with me next month. But I will tempt you with a picture...it's called The Big Red House and is stitched on 36 count Autumn Gold by Lakeside Linens using Needlepoint Silk. The other piece that I picked up today is called Liberty. It's a design on 35 ct 18th Century Rook by R&R using The Gentle Art overdyed threads. Mary Jo Hays graciously agreed to stitch both for me. I'm waiting on a frame for my third piece called Spring Violets using 40 count Ink Spot Black by R&R and Needlepoint Silks including two of their overdyed colors. Yummy! Thanks to Joanne Ambrose for her stitching! A punch needle design is almost done and another tiny sampler. Pictures to follow in next post.
I just talked to Carmen Sutton and she is working on more Hands To Work zippered bags for market. I can't wait to see them. She is the most amazing finisher.
I need to get stitching again. Time is quickly running away! Watch for more news about my releases.
Tracy

Williamsburg

2006-06-14T12:43:00.000-04:00

I had to share this picture of a bee skep in Colonial Williamsburg. What a wonderful few days we had there. But not enough time! Chuck and I hope to go back in the fall and again to see it decorated for Christmas.
Have a good week!
Tracy

June already???

2006-06-06T12:30:00.000-04:00

I can't believe it's been a month since I last posted. So sorry for the delay! I just don't know where the time goes.
This is my favorite month since I have a birthday. And my son Matt as well. He was born on my birthday and will turn 25 this year. That makes me feel old!
I am working on new designs. I hoped to have one out in May but now am shooting for this month. As soon as I get it in the frame, I will release the design. And I'm still trying to find a name. It might be the UnNamed Sampler! Keep watching the site!
Good news for all of you shop owners that ordered a redware plate in Nashville. The potter emailed me and is shipping them this week. As soon as they get here, I will get them boxed and in the mail. Thank you all for you patience!
I am going to Williamsburg with weekend with my husband's family. While they are looking forward to Busch Gardens, I am excited for Colonial Williamsburg. It's the most magical place! I will post pictures next week.
I want to add another favorite web site....something that I should have done ages ago. My good friend Jean Ann Fenies has a soap business in her historic home in Middleburg VA. I made soap for her for a little over two years. I can't say enough good things about her soaps. Beautiful, fragrant and good for your skin as they are more than 50% Olive Oil. Yum! My all time favorite is Mother Earth....a wonderful combination of lavender and patchouli. Visit Jean Ann's site at www.mountharmony.com.
I'm working on some punch needle designs and will have at least one or two available at the Charlotte market. What fun!
Kathy and I are still busy working on our first edition of A Worthy Endeavor. Things are moving along!
Have a lovely June,
Tracy

Exciting News!!!

2006-05-06T13:51:00.000-04:00

Kathy Barrick-Dieter of Carriage House Samplings and I are working together on a quartely newsletter called A Worthy Endeavor. Our first issue is scheduled for an October release. We will be promoting the timeless art of samplers, folk art and antiques. Our web site is under contruction now so in the meantime, updates will be made here and on Kathy's site (www.carriagehousesamplings.com). We will have articles about new designers, antique collectors, folk art and anything else that we think you might be interested in learning more about.
Happy Day,
Tracy

Look At This!

2006-04-26T15:45:00.000-04:00

My good buddy Katie Estvold from Sparrow's Cottage is selling these wonderful calendars that she made. They are marvelous! You can contact Katie at efamily@outlawnet.com to order. The price is $18 plus shipping. You can see more of Katie's things at www.deerfieldfarmhouse.com. Click on the Sparrow's Cottage link to go to her pages.
Enjoy~
Tracy

Ida Nolt

2006-04-24T23:21:00.000-04:00

Trying to catch up on all the things I need to share. Today the picture is of Ida Nolt. Lori Markovich of La~D~Da stitched the sampler and then made it into a purse. Isn't it fun?! She is such a wonderful designer and a great friend. I felt so honored that she carries around my design.
I will post pictures soon of stitcheries that Nikki from Italy has sent me. She is such an accomplished stitcher....don't know how she gets so much done.
Have a lovely week,
Tracy

Patience 1898

2006-04-20T11:00:00.000-04:00

I've decided to release Patience 1898 as a chart. This little sampler was released as a kit at the Nashville market. I'm out of supplies for it and so it will be sent to Hoffman and Norden to distribute as well.
Enjoy,
Tracy

Pictures

2006-04-14T10:52:00.000-04:00

Here are two pictures from the retreat. The first is of my two daughters Elisabeth and Courtney and Kathy's daughter Liz after taking the punch needle class. Aren't they adorable?!
The second picture is of the teachers: Cathy Campbell~Primitive Traditions, Lisa Duffin, Me, Lori Brechlin~Notforgotten Farm and Kathy Barrick-Dieter~Carriage House Samplings.

I also wanted to repost two web sites that you need to add to your favorites. They didn't come through on my last post. The first is for Christine Crocker and her beautiful dolls. Her daughter Katie is linked through the site as well. Check out www.deerfieldfarmhouse.com
The second site is for Jeanne Horton's fabulous shop in Spring Green Wisconsin called Country Sampler. When you walk into the store your credit card will jump right out of your wallet and into her hands. Then the merchandise starts piling up on the counter. At least that's what I told my husband! Go to www.sgcountrysampler.com
Off to stitch...have a wonderful holiday weekend!
Tracy

ahhhh, spring!

2006-04-12T13:02:00.000-04:00

What beautiful weather we are having in northern Virginia! All the trees are in full bloom and the grass is so green it almost hurts my eyes. Ahhhhhhh. Chuck mowed the grass last night and I decided there is no better smell than the first cut of grass in April.
I'm still recovering from my fun retreat. Wow, it was fantastic! I had the most wonderful group of women...and we were busy from Friday night until Sunday afternoon. I think everyone was ready for nap when it was over. I was lucky to have some of the best designers/teachers for the weekend. Not only did Kathy Barrick-Dieter, Cathy Campbell, Lori Brechlin and Lisa Duffin teach great classes but they also provided lots of entertainment during their down times (which means they were very disruptive! LOL!). Thanks to everyone, teachers and students alike for helping to make the weekend just perfect!
I had an exciting package arrive right before I left for the retreat. I was lucky enough to buy a doll from Christine Crocker and the arrival was such a thrill for me. I have been wanting one of her exquisite dolls for the longest time! You can see her work at . My new doll Rebecca is very happy in her new home.
I also was very lucky to go with Kathy to Wisconsin (my first time in the beautiful state) to Country Sampler and teach. We had such fun. Jeanne Horton is the very best hostess. She is such a detail person and everything was perfect down to the beautiful tulips in vases on her tables in the class room. She has a little apartment above her shop where Kathy and I stayed. We were honored to share the space with Barb Adams and Alma Allen. What a thrill. They are two of the nicest and funniest girls and I could have easily spent a whole week with them. Alma even helped me get started on a quilt. We also had two more apartment mates~Adele and Vickie Meese. They were delightful as well. The whole weekend was so fun and I hope I get to go back to Jeanne's shop soon. I could easily excede my credit limit in her store! You can see pictures here:
I have one important announcement. I recently found out that there is a printing error in my chart A Merry Heart. If anyone has purchased this and would like a replacement, please email me with your address and I will get it in the mail asap. I apologize in advance for the inconvenience!
Hope everyone is enjoying their spring weather!
Tracy

Room Reservations for Retreat

2006-03-18T11:07:00.000-05:00

Almost spring....it sure looks like it here as the trees are budding and blooming like crazy. But I'm sure plenty more cold weather is to come!
The hold on the rooms at Hotel Strasburg is about to be lifted so if any of you haven't reserved a room, now is the time. I think there are only ten rooms left and I don't want anyone to get stuck. The phone number is 1-800-348-8327.
I met with Brandy yesterday at the hotel and the final plans are being made. I'm still getting boxes in the mail for all the goodies that will be shared. And I'm sure I will be crazed up to the last minute getting everything together!
In between the classes and such, I've been working on new designs. I have my ornament ready to stitch for the JCS ornament edition. And I have a special bird chart that will be released by May.
Go to
to see the new pin that Liz (Kathy's daughter) has designed. It is awesome! I ordered one and can't wait to see it!
Paulette Stewart has been busy designing a fabulous new chart that she showed me. I won't tell you anything about it yet but it will be worth waiting for! She is so good!
Off to work, have a wonderful weekend!
Tracy

Retreat Info

2006-03-08T13:11:00.000-05:00

Lori Brechlin sent me this picture yesterday. This is the Bee Skep Scissors Fob that we will be making at the retreat. Isn't it fabulous?!
Kathy Barrick-Dieter has mailed out the pre-stitching. You all should be receiving it any day now. If you don't have it by Saturday, please let me know.
Time is rushing by...we'll all be together soon!
Tracy

It's the little things....

2006-03-02T14:07:00.000-05:00

My thought for the day is "It's the little things in life that makes us happy!". Oh how true. I have a wonderful black lab named Maggie. You can see her in the above photo with my daughter's great dane, Chloe while they are excitedly waiting for a car ride. She is so beautiful and loyal and happy and calm. Everything you would ever want in a dog and more. But she sheds. Not just a little. We're talking major hair loss every day. And in the early spring (now), she starts losing her winter coat which means handfuls of black hair need to be brushed out every day. Regardless of how much grooming I do, I am always fighting the hair in the house, on the furniture, in the air. So today I went to Kohl's and using my 30% off coupon, splurged on a Dyson vacuum cleaner. I have swept up more hair in an hour than I have ever gotten up with my various other vacuums. I'm thrilled. So today I am happy with a vacuum that works! It's the little things!
Have a gread day too!
Tracy

RETREAT REGISTRATION CLOSED

2006-02-27T13:36:00.000-05:00

Wow, it's been a busy few weeks here! And I've suddenly had several stitchers call and email that they are coming to the retreat! So I am now closing registration. If you have your heart set on attending, please contact me. Things happen and if I can make it work, I will!
Kathy will be sending out pre-stitching very soon. I will let everyone know when it's shipped.
Have a great week,
Tracy

Whew!

2006-02-20T14:12:00.000-05:00

Nashville was fantastic! What a wonderful show. It's such fun to put faces with names of shops and hang out with other designers. I love trade shows. I just hate the two weeks before trade shows!
I was emailed this morning that there is a missing thread on my chart The Littles. The symbol 2 on A Little Peace border will be Gentle Art Sampler Threads Apple Cider. And I also mislabeled a symbol for the chart Patience 1898. The . is NPS 992 white....just ignore what is written there. So sorry for the confusion. I try very hard not to make these kinds of mistakes but darn it! they do happen sometimes. If you have any questions, please feel free to call or email.
Kathy Barrick-Dieter, Cathy Campbell and I traveled from Nashville to Knoxville after the market to teach for a wonderful group of stitchers. We had so much fun and they really made us feel welcome! Several from the group will be traveling to VA to spend the weekend with us at my Bee Kind, Bee True retreat! They will be a welcome addition to our group as they are fun, fun, fun!
I am also getting ready to teach for Jeanne Horton at her wonderful shop Country Sampler in Green Spring WI. Kathy B and I will be teaching A Strawberry Weekend for the girls up north. I can't wait to get in Jeanne's shop....the pictures on her web site look perfectly amazing! If you would like to attend this weekend of fun, I think Jeanne still has a few spots available. You can reach her at stchgirl@yahoo.com. She will be happy to help you with the details!
I will also be teaching at Dyeing To Stitch in Virginia Beach VA sometime this spring. The R&R girls have opened a shop and I'm so anxious to get down there! I will put more details here when things are finalized.
I'm working hard on getting details ready for the retreat and will have pictures up soon. Thanks for being so patient with me. It will be worth the wait!!!
Have a great week,
Tracy

Forgot to add Sara

2006-02-07T19:21:00.000-05:00

This is Sara Fleming.

A Few More

2006-02-06T21:02:00.000-05:00

Here are more of the releases for Nashville. The first is a better picture of the Primitive Bags. Second is a limited release called Isabel's Giving Samplers. The kit includes two graphs, a piece of linen, hand dyed wool for finishing the back, acid free foam core for mounting and a beautiful grain painted frame from Cathy Campbell - Primitive Traditions. The third sampler is called A Merry Heart and is a quaker inspired alphabet sampler.
Only a few more days.....

More photos

2006-02-04T11:56:00.000-05:00

Two more photos. The first one is of The Littles and the second is More of My Favorite Primitive Bags. I don't have the ribbon hangers on yet but will get that finished this afternoon.
Stacy Nash did the finishing of the pin pillows. They are wonderful. I will take pictures of the details and put here. She is amazing. Her email if you need any work done is stacynash@insightbb.com. You can also see her work on ebay...her listing is snprimitives. I love her work!
Off to work now, really I am!
Tracy
PS have you seen Kathy Barrick-Dieter's new designs? They are awesome! Go to and click on News.

New Designs

2006-02-04T11:50:00.000-05:00

Here are two of my new designs. The first one is My Virginia Home. The second is Harvest Blooms. I also am releasing The Littles which are three little pin pillows called A Little Love, A Little Hope and A Little Peace. Sara Fleming, a little sampler with birds and A Merry Heart which is a quaker inspired alphabet sampler. I will post the rest of the pictures soon.
I'm getting quite a few sign ups for my retreat and only have a few more spots left. I know everyone is waiting for pictures and I hope to have some ready when I get home from the Nashville Needlework Market. Keep watching!
Back to work....so much to do!
Tracy

Happiest of Holidays

2005-12-28T09:08:00.000-05:00

I thought I would post a picture of my children taken on Christmas Eve. From the left is my son-in-law John, my middle child Courtney, the baby Elisabeth and my son Matt. It was the first time in years that they have been together for Christmas. We had a marvelous time with our family in West Virginia!
Now it's back to work. I have much to do to get ready for Nashville. The panic is starting to set in! Yikes!
Wishing all of you a fun filled New Year!!!
Tracy

HO HO HO!

2005-12-20T20:35:00.000-05:00

We have been busy getting into the Christmas spirit here. My husband always seems to get out of all the work, so I strongly encouraged (okay, I forced him) to help out with the baking and shopping. And he enjoyed it! We still have a few more gifts to buy. And I have lots to wrap. I've been singing carols loudly over the last few days. My family has just about had enough!
I have been so very, very blessed this year. Again! I have so many wonderful things in my life. You, my customers and friends are right there at the top! I appreciate all of the emails, phone calls and notes that I receive. Just about the time that I get a little discouraged, someone pops up and tells me about a chart that they love. Wow! It means so much!!!
I wish the best for all of you. And please keep those needles flying!
Merry Christmas!
Tracy
PS watch for an article and pictures of my dear friend Lori from Notforgotten Farm in the February issue of Country Home. I can't wait to see it!

Upcoming Events

2005-12-11T16:01:00.000-05:00

Two weeks til Christmas! Wow, where did the year go? And why does Christmas manage to sneak up on me every year?! I have lots and lots to do but have been able to stay in the holiday spirit since we have had snow on the ground for a week. I love it!
I have lots of news to share. First of all, I wanted everyone to know that the collaboration sampler called A Most Noble Pursuit is finished, framed and photgraphed. It is so beautiful! I can't wait for everyone to see it. The photos will be going out to web sites very soon. The limited editions charts will be available to shop owners at the Nashville cash and carry market and will retail for $40. Needlepoint Inc will have a silk pack available and Lakeside Linens will do a special cut for the 36 count Light Examplar and Vintage Light Examplar. Woo Hoo!
I have a new date for my spring retreat. Due to scheduling difficulties, the date has been changed to March 31, April 1 and 2. The price for the weekend is $375.00 plus rooms. I have a rather long list of interested stitchers so I will reserve space on a first come first serve basis. You can send a check for $100 (non-refundable) to reserve your space to my address:
203 Camellia Ct
Stephens City VA 22655
or paypal the ammount to riffletracy@aol.com. The balance will be due by March 1. You can contact Hotel Strasburg to reserve your room. They again will be offering a 15% discount so be sure to mention that you are attending the retreat. If you are unable to use stairs, mention that you need a room in one of the houses on the first floor. The name of the weekend is Bee Kind Bee True. I hope to have a model of the class projects available in February. No pre-stitching this year. All of your work will be done in the class.
I'm busily working on designs for Nashville. Again, the time is flying by and I'm shocked at how much I have to do before February. I will post pictures right before I go to market. Be sure to mention to your shop owners to make time to visit my room at market so they can bring home my designs and the collaboration sampler chart as well.
Happy, happy holidays. I hope Santa is good to all of you!
Tracy

Thankfulness

2005-11-26T13:47:00.000-05:00

Another Thanksgiving day past and what a wonderful day it was. The expected snow over the mountains in western Maryland never developed so family was able to arrive safely. Although I bought a smaller turkey this year, we still have too much left. Our waistlines are a little larger but we are so very thankful for the many blessings that we have been showered with! The best Thanksgiving treat this year was the WVU victory over Pitt! Go 'Eers!!!!!!
Now that I have a lull between holidays, I am getting serious with designs for Nashville. Had a little brainstorm this morning so hopefully can translate the idea into a good sampler.
Hope the remainder of the holiday weekend is full of fun and your search for the perfect Christmas presents are easier than ever!
Tracy

Many Thanks

2005-11-09T20:18:00.000-05:00

Our family has the best news. My little cousin Jonathan (you can find the link to his site on my front page) has been pronounced CLEAR OF ALL CANCER!!!! All the many many prayers have been answered. We are so thankful of this amazing news. And happy not only for Jonathan but for Mom and Dad (Kathy and Pete) and little sister Alyssa. It has been a rough few years for the DaDalt family and I know they are so happy to be getting back to normal things.
The other good news that I have is that my good buddies Jackie and Bill are in fine health. Both had a scare last month but after a surgery for Bill and biopsy for Jackie, they too have been given great news!
Things here are wonderful as usual. I've been a beast lately as I have been reproducing a sampler for a class that will be held this Saturday morning. This is by far the hardest thing I have ever done! I love the sampler and am thrilled to be able to share it. But I have agonized over every stitch. My family will be happy when this weekend is over!
Ihave started working on the retreat to be held in April. The name of the weekend is Bee Kind, Bee True. Thanks Kathy, Cathy and Carol for your help! I'm getting classes lined up, projects started and reservations made. It's going to be a great weekend.
Again, thanks to all of you that have shared your thoughts and prayers on behalf of Jonathan. It means so much!
Tracy

2005-10-16T19:48:00.000-04:00

I've been busy working on new designs for Nashville. I finished a design today for a small sampler called Sara Fleming. I also have a reproduction sampler in the works named Martha Brown. And more ideas floating around...
I am going to be in Leesburg next month teaching a reproduction sampler class for the Loudon Sampler Guild. The sampler comes from my son-in-law's family via Hagerstown Maryland. It's a beauty!
I will also be teaching a class in Bridgeport WV January 2006. I'm designing a small sampler for the group. If anyone needs info on either class, email me at riffletracy@aol.com.
The other big project that will be started soon is work on my kitchen. I had hoped to be on a farm by now....but have come to accept that I won't be moving any time soon. So I'm going to start putting my touches on this house. First thing will be to cover the plaster ceiling with wood, paint the oak cabinets and replace the vinyl floor with wood which I will paint and finish myself. I am also going to finally!!! replace the awful flourescent light with a repro hanging light. Can't wait to get started!
Chuck surprised me last week with a huge load of wood for our fireplace. I love to sit in the family room and stitch by the fire. I can't wait to start using the fireplace again. We are also going to keep the house cooler this winter to save on heating costs. Our last house was built in the early 20's with the original windows and gas heat. Glad we aren't paying that bill anymore!
Off to stitch and get ready for Desperate Housewives and Grey's Anatomy. My two favorite shows! Have a great week!!!
Tracy
PS my trunk show this month is at Mom & Me in Lebanon IL.

Fall Is Here!

2005-09-22T12:15:00.000-04:00

Another hot day in northern Virginia but cooler weather is sure to come! I'm ready to open my windows and wear my favorite long sleeved tee shirts!!!
I've been watching the news and Weather Channel all week. It seems that Rita wants to wreck havoc on the coast of Texas. My family's thoughts are with you all in the path of the hurricane. And our fingers are crossed that New Orleans doesn't flood again. My son is working in NO for a few weeks with the Air Guard. We don't know if he will be sent back home or will wait out the storm. I'm sure we will hear some incredible stories from him!
I'm working on a reproduction sampler class for the Loudon Sampler Guild in Leesburg VA. The class will be held on November 12 and I will have a small trunk show there as well. The sampler comes from my son in law's family and it is a beauty.
Jackie and Bill Partlow~~the former owners of We Keep You In Stitches in Stephens City VA are living on the gulf coast of Florida and have been having some health problems recently. Please keep them in your thoughts!
I'm off to WV for a few days to help my father paint his house. He thinks that he can do everything that he did when he was 35 and at nearly 81 he has been climbing up and down a ladder for a week. My nerves can't take it so Chuck and I hope to help with the bulk of the painting this weekend!
Tracy

Thoughts of those in need...

2005-09-02T10:42:00.000-04:00

I have been glued to the television for days watching the news concerning the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. It is unbelievable what so many are going through! Everyone in my family sends our thoughts and prayers to all those in need. I will send the profit made from this month's trunk show to a relief organization.
May God Bless All Those Affected By The Storm...
Tracy

Hanging Her Head In Shame...

2005-08-24T12:09:00.000-04:00

I know, I know! I should be better at writing on this thing. But I can't ever think of anything to say. Lori from Notforgotten Farm has been nagging me so I will try to do better in the future!
I recently got back from the Charlotte cash and carry market and had a blast. Paulette Stewart (Omaha) was introduced as a new designer and her first sampler was a huge hit. I'm so proud of her! We had so much fun over the weekend and after playing a practical joke on her I hope she still calls me friend! I introduced four new designs at the market and they should be pictured on the site very soon.
Another exciting venture for me is being included in a fantastic collaboration sampler called "A Most Noble Pursuit". Ten designers have each designed a block on a huge sampler which is 408 stitches wide by 242 stitches high. The fabric is by Lakeside Linen, frame by Primitive Traditions and threads by Needlepoint Silk. Brightneedle, Tricia Brage Designs, Primitive Traditions, With My Needle, La-D-Da, The Workbasket, A Stitch And A Prayer, Praiseworthy Stitches, Carriage House Samplings and Hands To Work are the designers. I've seen the sampler with five blocks stitched and it is FANTASTIC! This will be a limited edition sampler so let your shop owners know that you are interested so they can get what they need at the Nashville market in February 2006.
I'm working on some new designs for Nashville and hope to have a little something out before Christmas. Too many things to do and not enough time!
One last thing. My husband Chuck and I celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary on Monday the fifteenth of August. We were surprised with a wonderful surprise party last Sunday and had so much fun with friends and family. I never cease to be amazed by the generosity of others! I am so blessed with an amazing husband, three fabulous children, a loving extended family and the best friends anyone could want. Thanks so much!!!
Tracy

June thoughts

2005-06-20T12:18:00.000-04:00

I can't believe that it's been so long since I last posted. I will try to do better in the future!
This is the best week of the year for me because I will turn 45 on Wednesday. And even though I'm getting to the age that is considered old in some circles, I still love my birthday and embrace each and every one. What a special time to have fun. I'm going on a day trip with some very special friends to a wonderful antique store and to lunch. Then will spend the evening with my husband and children. Wednesday is also my oldest child's birthday. He will be 24! Wow, how did that happen?! He's a wonderful boy and I'm very proud of him.
I finally released a new chart that you can see on the first page of the site. It's called A Bird Sang and is stitched on 40 count River Willow from Lakeside Linens. If you happen to get a chart that doesn't mention the fabric....sorry. I was having a blonde moment I guess.
I'm hard at work on designs for the Charlotte Market in August. I'm hoping that there will be a good turn out for this cash and carry market. I have a little sampler and a companion piece for the Christmas Stockings and hope to have more. Have to get very busy as August will be here before I know it.
I've been painting my bedroom and bathroom the last few weeks. I'm the world's slowest painter! I'm so sick of the mess. As soon as I get done then it's off to the living room and downstairs hallway. I feel so much better when it's done but sure hate to do it.
I saw the picture of Kathy Barrick's new stocking that will be released in Charlotte. It's definatley worth waiting for!
Have a good week and I'll be back soon.
Tracy

A Strawberry Weekend Report

2005-04-29T15:49:00.000-04:00

Wow! I am still exhausted from the retreat that was held last weekend in Strasburg. I think it was possibly the most fun weekend I have ever had! My face is still sore from laughing so much.
The weekend started on Friday night with fun games orchestrated by Kathy Barrick. Kathy, retire the whistle! Please! We played stitchers olympics complete with gold, silver and bronze medals. And we hummed the olympic song. That was worth the cost of the class! Just kidding.
Saturday morning started with a delicious buffet breakfast and then we got right to business. Cathy Campbell taught us how to paint our box using the primitive techniques that make her frames look so fantastic. No two boxes were alike but everyone's looked amazing!
Saturday afternoon and evening we worked on making our awesome strawberry make-dos. Again, everyone started with the same materials and each had a very unique piece when they were done. Later in the evening, some of the guests worked on finishing their pre-stitching so they could finish their box on Sunday. I think Valerie did a happy dance when her stitching was done but unfortunately I missed it. Bridget is still working on her stitching I think. She promises to bring her finished box next year!
After another yummy buffet breakfast Sunday morning, we gathered to work on the inside of our boxes. Lisa Duffin taught the class and by the time each person left on Sunday afternoon, they had a completely finished box. Well, except for Bridget. They were so beautiful! Lisa made the finishing so easy! Who knew that we all could do it?!
I can't possibly explain what a wonderful weekend was had by me and others. It was almost overwhelming. Everyone was so friendly and happy and we laughed and kidded each other and ate and ate and ate! We had some hilarious stories from our new friend Paulette who came all the way from Omaha. Pat, the resident linen expert helped me chose some linen colors for upcoming projects. Even though she got to the DC area quite early in the morning on Friday after flying from Washington state, she managed to be quite pleasant Friday evening. But she sure did sleep great on Friday night! Sue from Connecticut wowed us with her And They Sinned on silk guaze. It was so beautiful! She is also working on Kathy's alphabet series. We also had Ginny, Carol and Cheryl from Virginia, Judy, Wendy, and Annette from Maryland, Lisa, Robin, Valerie and Margaret from Pennsylvania and Eileen and Karen from West Virginia. What a fantastic group!
The plans are on for next year's event. The theme is Bees and Skeps. I'm thinking that the last weekend of April might be the best time...April 28-30th, 2006. But I will keep you all updated on the dates and cost.
Now that the retreat is over I have to get busy designing again! I'm way behind and while I have one thing almost ready, many more things are only in the beginning stages. So it's time to close the office door, turn the answering machine and work, work,work!
Have a fun spring out in your gardens. Hope all the snow is melted!
Tracy

A Strawberry Weekend Retreat

2005-03-21T13:53:00.000-05:00

The retreat is right around the corner. I can't believe how quickly the time has rushed by! Things are falling into place and I'm sure I will be sitting around eating bon bons the week of the retreat! Ha!
Just a quick note to all that have signed up....I'm releasing the extra rooms at Hotel Strasburg on Thursday. So if you haven't reserved a room, now is the time!
The kits have been put in the mail for the pre-stitching. Of course, because I am Tracy, I made a small mistake in my directions. Email me if you have any questions.
The weekend of the 11th of this month, Chuck and I drove to Syracuse NY to attend the retreat put on by Jan of A Stitcher's Garden. I taught a class called A Primitive Heart Needlecase. The students were great fun and I had some that almost completed their needlecase in the 2.5 hours of class time that we had. Ann and Liz from Brightneedle were there as well as Nancy from Glory Bee. All three are fantastic teachers and had wonderful projects. It was just a great weekend and Jan's shop is amazing! Thanks to all who made it a special weekend.
I'm trying to do some spring cleaning this week. My son is going to be moving out in the next few weeks and I'm anxious to get my space back. He is in Germany til the end of the month and then will be home for a few days to pack up before he goes to Germany again. I want to have every thing ready for him to put in his truck so he will be sure to take it. My oldest daughter still hasn't taken boxes of clothes and junk that she packed up two years ago! I'm going to be tougher this time!!!
Spring is almost here...although the calendar says it's spring the weather is still quite chilly. But the crocus have popped up through the hard ground and there are tiny buds on the trees. I'm very ready for warmth!
Have a great early spring and I'm sending out warmer weather wishes for all of you still frozen under a layer of snow!
Tracy

Whew!

2005-02-17T19:15:00.000-05:00

I am still trying to recover from our wonderful trip to Nashville last week. What a fun time! I shared a room once again with Cathy Campbell of Primitive Traditions. And spent a lot of time with her and her husband Bob as we tried to eat at every restaurant in Nashville proper. I LOVE Nashville. I didn't get to see any of it last year so Chuck and I drove down last Wednesday so we would have some time to look around. What a nice city. If you ever get a chance to go, I highly recommend it. We're already planning what to do next year.
The show was wonderful. The nicest shop owners came into my room. I wasn't quite as nervous this year so I was able to spend a little more time talking to everyone. And although time is short, I was able to get out and look at the other designer's rooms. I never cease to be amazed at the incredible talent.
Thanks to each of you for your kind words and support. I can't begin to express my appreciation!
Talked to the food guy at the Strasburg Hotel today. Am looking over the menu for the retreat. It's so hard to choose..... The spots are quickly filling up. I expect that we will be full in the next few weeks. Pat and Violet from Lakeside Linen will be sending along the linen for the prestitching very soon and Mark at Needlepoint Silk is gathering your silks. Watch your mail....I have a very special gift that should be arriving soon!
Call or email if you have any questions. Spring is coming, I have a blooming crocus already!
Tracy

Nashville, Here I come!

2005-02-04T21:10:00.000-05:00

I can't believe that I will be leaving for the Nashville Cash and Carry Market next week. The time between Christmas and the Super Bowl just flies! So just like last year I'm scrambling to get ready for the market. Next year I'm going to spend all of January lounging on the sofa eating bon bons as I'm going to have all of my new designs stitched and printed by mid-December. LOL!
I wanted to mention that I am priviledged to be teaching a class at A Stitcher's Garden 2005 Retreat in March. I will be joining Nancy from Glory Bee and Ann & Liz or Brightneedle in Syracuse NY March 11-13. I've heard that Jan's retreats are fantastic and I'm looking forward to the trip and meeting everyone! You can read all about the retreat at www.astitchersgarden.com . Hope to see you there!
My retreat is filling up fast. I've had several people sign up over the last few days and am expecting to hear from more after the 14th of February when I get home. The plans are moving right along and I hope to have a picture of the completed box in the next few weeks.
I am so excited to see what's new this year at Nashville. It's always exciting to meet up with old friends and make new ones. Chuck and I are taking a few extra days to attend the Heart of Country antique show and see the Nashville sights.
Have a happy Valentine's Day! I'll be home on the evening of the 14th.
Tracy

Wonderful Stitchers

2004-12-20T15:32:00.000-05:00

I got the nicest phone call from Norma Watkins. She had just received Mr Harry Terry Tom in the mail and was very excited to start stitching him. But she found a mistake in my chart. I forgot to match the symbols in the extra banner that says "good morning" to the original chart. So sorry! I will be happy to send a corrected chart to anyone that needs one. Just email me and I will get it in the mail asap!
I am running around my house like a crazy woman! I have much to do in the few days before Christmas! But it will all get done....eventually! I am sending along wishes for you all to have a wonderfully happy holiday and a new year full of stitching with no mistakes!
Merry Christmas!
Tracy

2004-11-29T13:49:00.000-05:00

I hadn't realized how long it had been since my last post til I checked my site. Where does the time go?
I had a wonderful Thanksgiving this year. Family came in from West Virginia and we ate and visited and played cards and Scrabble and ate some more. I have enough stuffing left to last til next year! I really tried not to fix so much this time....but I did not succeed. We were very blessed again this year and try to be thankful everyday for our blessings and not just on the last Thursday of November.
Of course one of the biggest blessings I have are my friends new and old that have helped me make my dream of designing come true. I have "met" many of you on the internet through emails and instant messaging and it has been so wonderful for me. I hope to meet many of you in person. I am very lucky that I have so many supportive friends and family in my life. If I get discouraged or overwhelmed, I have a long list of buddies that I can call or email. I wish that for everyone.
Now as I get ready for the Nashville Market and beyond, I want to assure all of you that I am listening. If you ever have any ideas or suggestions please send them along. I am still new at this and have much to learn. And who better to learn it from than stitchers themselves!
If any of you live in the Syracuse NY area, I hope to see you in March as I will be teaching a class at the A Stitcher's Garden retreat. I am so excited to join Jan and all as I have heard that she puts on a fantastic retreat each year. You can contact Jan at jan@astitchersgarden.com for details.
I am also excited to have heard from so many regarding my retreat in April. I have several that have paid their deposit and many more have told me that they are checking their calendars and schedules so the retreat can be squeezed in! The plans are moving along and I have been on the hunt for some exciting goodies. Several designers are sending trunk shows and I will dig out treats in Nashville as well. So if you haven't already, check out the details for the retreat and email me if you have any questions.
Have fun with your holiday plans and remember to carve out some time for yourself!
Tracy

Friends

2004-10-25T10:48:00.000-04:00

I spent the most fabulously fun few days with friends last week. I went to a "little cottage" in the mountains of Virginia with Carol Sims, Kathy Barrick and Cathy Campbell. While there we met up with Lori Brechlin of Notforgotten Farm and spent two days shopping and visiting at her house. Having spent time with kindred spirits certainly revs me up to continue creating. I have my sights set on Nashville and want to get some serious designing done in the next few weeks. If you ever need a little kick to get you in the mood to create, take some time to spend with like minded friends. It really does do something to the creative spirit!
I'm hoping to get my crazy bird design on the website this week. Sorry it's taken so long! The gang (see above paragraph) helped me name him. So now he is called Mr. Harry Terry Tom. While he holds a banner that says Merry Christmas, I also am including the chart for another banner that says Good Morning if you want to display him all year. I'm stalking the mailman as he has the frame from Cathy Campbell. I hope it arrives today so I can take a picture and get him ready.
The stocking ornament charts are going out on the automatic delivery today. I hope you enjoy them....they make a great quick stitched gift!
Have a great week, enjoy the world series and have a safe Halloween!
Tracy

Retreat Information

2004-10-12T11:22:00.000-04:00

I spoke with Barbara at Hotel Strasburg today and she is holding all the rooms until December. Actually I can hold them longer but that is the first time we will be discussing how many rooms I will actually need for attendees. So depending on the response I get between now and December will depend on whether or not I hold every room in the hotel.
I've seen a picture of Kathy's make do project and it is awesome! I will be making one with her next week and will add a picture to the website. Cathy Campbell and Lisa Duffin are hard at work on their classes too. Just so you know, the theme of the weekend is strawberries...for stitching as well as food!
We also are going to have an exhibit for all guests to bring a stitched and framed or finished cross stitch project. Everyone will get to vote for their favorite and the winner will get a great prize! So get busy on your stitching...or dust off something spectacular that you're so very proud of! And start making plans now to spend a few glorius spring days in Virginia!
Tracy

2004-10-05T09:59:00.000-04:00

The leaves are starting to turn in the Shenandoah Valley. It has been a beautiful fall. The weather is fantastic! And now that the nights are getting cooler, I sleep so good. I love fall!
My newest design in on the website. The sampler is called I Wait For The Lord and is stitched on wonderful Lakeside Linen using one color of Needlepoint Silk and is framed in a Primitive Traditions frame. You can see the picture on the first page of the website. I'm waiting on the finishing of the Christmas stocking ornaments and I got an email from Charity, a friend and stitcher who always bails me out when I need her, that she is sending my Christmas Bird back to me. So I will get him in a frame and get the chart out asap.
My little WV sampler is still waiting to be stitched. I finished one and donated it to the West Virginia Folk Life Center Auction at Fairmont State University. Now I have to get my needle busy on stitching the second one for the model. I have a hard time carving out stitching time as I have too many irons in the fire (so my mother tells me!). I am currently participating in an online dollmaking class given by Gail Wilson...www.gailwilsondesigns.com...and hope to actually start on the doll today. I am trying to learn some sewing and finishing skills that I have never taken the time to do. I think this class will be fun and I will have a reproduction doll that I can save for a someday grand daughter as a result!
I'm off to the UPS store to send my trunk show to Something Extra in Toledo, Ohio. If you are in the area, stop by to see my newest designs.
Have a great week and keep those needles stitching!
Tracu

A Hectic Fall!

2004-10-04T11:43:00.000-04:00

It's been a while since I last updated my journal. It has been quite busy at the Riffle household the last few weeks. But it is slowing down a bit here which is a good thing as I have gotten quite behind in my designing and stitching!
My newest design is pictured on the first page of the site and is called I Wait For The Lord. I have to say it is one of my favorites. I love samplers stitched with one color. I hope to have the stocking ornaments back from the finisher soon so I can get that chart out. And I have two designs that are being stitched by friends. One tenatively called Merry Christmas Bird (not too original I know but that is the best I can come up with) is in MO and the other which is also a bird theme but has no name and is in Ft Myers FL. Those should be finished before too long and I'll get the pictures up asap.
I'm starting on a new venture. I enrolled in a dollmaking class online. The class is through Gail Wilson and you can view her fabulous designs at www.gailwilsondesigns.com. I have to paint the body parts this week and will start this afternoon. Hope it goes well! I am also going to be doing some very tiny stitching and finishing, even will learn how to make needle lace. This exercise will help with my stitching and finishing I am sure. I have made many things on my sewing machine over the years but have much to learn. I know this class will be a help!
My youngest daughter Elisabeth turned eighteen yesterday and I'm so amazed that she could possibly be that old! Wow!
Have a great week and keep those needles moving!
Tracy

Stitching Retreat Details Finished!

2004-09-19T21:19:00.000-04:00

I finally got the information for the Spring Retreat on the site. Sorry it took so long. Kathy Barrick Dieter, Carol Sims and I went out for the day on Friday and discussed plans again. I'm so lucky to have Kathy helping me with this retreat. We come up with great ideas over lunch. It's amazing how the creativity gets going when food is available!
While we were out and about I found the coolest old oil portrait in Manassas. Maybe Kathy will post the picture on her site (cause I don't have a clue how to do it). The lady in the portrait is very stern looking. She is sitting in my office and when I look at her I feel the need to work harder. She reminds me of some of my elementary school teachers!
Call or email if you have any questions about the retreat. More information will be posted as class projects are finalized and photographed.
Have a wonderful week!
Tracy

Gardening

2004-09-14T13:14:00.000-04:00

Day 2 of gardening at my house. And it's hard, back aching gardening. That's what I get for procrastinating all summer! I didn't divide my perrenials in the spring, didn't water over the summer and now I have a mess! I have to enrich my soil (how does it turn to concrete so quickly?), divide the perrenials, and generally clean up. I have some new plants coming soon in the mail and I have to be ready for them to arrive.
Lisa Duffin is doing some finishing work for me this week. She is putting together the three little stocking ornaments so I can get the chart released this month. I can't wait to see what she's done!
Speaking of stockings, Kathy Barrick Dieter of Carriage House Samplings is also releasing some stocking charts. I have seen some of them and they are awesome! She is so very talented!!!
Okay, back to the yard. Have a great week and my thoughts are with all of you in Florida. I know it's been such a hard several weeks with the awful weather. Hang in there!
Tracy

Fun Sites To Visit

2004-08-29T00:30:00.000-04:00

I love to look around on the net. I never cease to be amazed at what is available to see! I love to share what I've found. Here are some of my new favorites...

www.nettylacroix.com Netty LaCroix is a wonderful folk artist that sells her patterns and some finished goods on her site. Just a lot of fun!

www.circa1820.com fabulous pewter! I get inspiration from sites like this....inspiration to clean up my house and change some of the decorative pieces that I've had for waaaaay too long! I'm a long way from the pages of Country Home but I keep working on it!

www.markkimballmoulton.com Mark is wonderful to order from! I have one of his gourd bird houses and it looks fabulous in my back yard. And his photographs are beautiful!

www.notforgottenfarm.com Lori is one very talented friend! I love to check out her site often just to see what she's come up with every month. She really does it all! She even painted a sign for me when I went to Nashville last year. I would include a picture but I don't have a clue how to do it. Lori is having a class at her farm next month. Email her to see if she still has room for more participants. I plan on attending. Just can't wait to see her house!

Special note: On the first page of the site you will notice a page titled Jonathan. This takes you directly to the Caring Bridge newsletter page for my little cousin Jonathan DaDalt. He is bravely battling Neuroblastoma, a nasty childhood cancer. His Mom and Dad update his site regularly with the goings on at the DaDalt household (Mom Kathy, Dad Pete and little sister Alyssa would love to have prayers and good thoughts for Jonathan as he goes through his fight against this disease). I know Kathy and Pete appreciate any prayers that are said for all of them. And I do too!

Those are just some of the many sites that I have bookmarked. Enjoy looking and I hope you find a site on this vast information highway that will inspire you to be creative! Okay, now I have to quit looking around and get to work!!! Have a great week,
Tracy

New Designs Coming Soon!

2004-08-21T11:04:00.000-04:00

My favorite time of year is almost here! I love fall and can't wait for the cooler weather. I got so excited after seeing the picture of Kathy Barrick Dieter's pumpkins (http://carriagehousesamplings.com/news.htm) that I had to dig out some of my "almost real" pumpkins to start decorating.
I have three new designs in the works. The first design is a sampler called "I Wait For The Lord" stitched on 40 count vintage meadow rue by Lakeside Linens using one color of Needlepoint Silk. Cathy Campbell made the awesome frame.
The second design is three Christmas stocking ornaments that are stitched and waiting to be finished. They will look great on a primitive Christmas tree. And the third design is a tiny West Virginia sampler. I hope to have all three designs ready by next month.
I have been working on the retreat plans. Kathy Barrick, Cathy Campbell, Carol Sims and I met for lunch at the Hotel Strasburg recently to discuss classes, daily schedules and such. I've been crunching numbers and hope to have the final cost on the retreat page very soon. We are all so excited for the retreat and have some great surprises planned!
Have a great end of summer!
Tracy

Welcome

2004-08-08T11:06:00.000-04:00

Thanks so much for visiting my new website! I hope you enjoy what you see and come back often. I will be updating this little journal regularly with news of new designs, projects, classes, etc. I will also be mentioning updates on my children and grand puppy Chloe. And when I hear exciting news about other designers, I will share that info too.
There is an option to post comments on this journal. Feel free to share your thoughts. We stitchers can't seem to get enough details about our current projects and wish lists!
Tracy