End of the Year

Another year is rapidly coming to a close.  It seems inpossible that we are saying goodbye to 2013 already. 

The last month has been so busy and we are now left with great memories.  It was hard to find time for stitching of any sort and my cutting table was in sorry shape.  Everything got dumped on top of it when I was rushing around.  Yesterday was a day for cleaning it up and getting ready for new and old projects. 

Christmas was fabulous!  This was a shot of a very full room as gift opening started. 

Nedra had showed the cutest napkin folding technique on her blog so I used it for our Christmas dinner setting.  It was quite the hit.

I did manage to finish up the newest Christmas stocking for the grandbaby born this year.

The weather for Christmas was amazing and provided us with fun outdoor entertaining.  One flower that grows really well in our area is the poinsettia.  They are all in full bloom right now and this one is at my neice's home.

I received a stunning gift from a dear friend of mine.  She is an accomplished artist and you will see her artwork in many places - LAX and cruise ships to name a few.  This is a new project that she has taken on in her journey.  These are large fabric beads (about 3" across) and can be strung on ribbons, leather or chains.  This one she put on a hand dyed silk ribbon.  She has started an Etsy shop to sell them if anyone is interested.  I cannot tell you how many compliments I have received when I have worn it. 

The little sewing that I have accomplished here has included my mini quilt for the ALQS8 swap coming up next month.  It's not too late to participate if you are interested.  I LOVE the way this swap is run and have participated in the last 4 or 5 of them.

I also completed a couple of wonky houses for Beth's annual Neighborhood Party - one for the party and one for a charity quilt she will make with them.

A couple of fun squishy packages have recently found their way into my mailbox.  These were wins from the most recent Blog Hop Party.  First off was this package of beautiful charms from Kristin at goobadesigns.

Then I received these wonderful mini metal barn quilt designs from Barbara at Cat Patches.  These have little holes so they can be attached with needle and thread if you desire to do so.  They will be fun. 

I wish all of you a wonderful upcoming year.  I will look forward to another year of amazing creativity and inspiration from all of you.