Wildflowers and Planet Earth Applique

On Friday, I drove J to the airport to visit his daughter.  I've watched movies he didn't care to see, did a long meditation, and a bit of stitchery.  It also meant I could do whatever I wished with my birth day.  Early, there were cards savored over a cup of tea, on the porch.  And a walk with the dogs, while I gathered grasses for the chickens and cut wild flowers for a bouquet.  I had intended to add some garden flowers, possibly some hyssop, zinnias, sunflowers, or purple butterfly bush, but I was so pleased with the wild bouquet, I left it as is.  I should tell you the birds have spread beautyberry across this land, as well as mulberry, so these were from a bird-planted bush.  Then there were baked pancakes, shared with the pups.  A bit later, I'll be heading to a family dinner at my Mom's.

Above is my latest embroidery project, and my first attempt at applique.  While it's far from exact, I believe it's recognizable.  After picking up my fabric from Wendy the other day,  I decided I'd like to work on the jewelry cinch bag today.  It just felt right to do something for someone else this birthday.  But, after looking at the instructions yesterday, I realized I needed batting, an eyelet kit and a rotary cutter.  I expect I could do without the rotaty cutter, but I was informed just last week that I would need one for another project I've got in mind.  So, the best laid plans...  They're closed Sundays, but I expect to be at Hobby Lobby tomorrow gathering what I need, and hope to be showing you the results before long.  I wish you a happy, relaxing Labor Day!

Saturday in Stitches

This morning was chilly.  We didn't have any heat last night, even though the low was 47. So this morning, I decided to make biscuits to warm up the house, and treat our bellies.  I use a recipe out of Sundays at Moosewood, which is chock full of butter, but oh so good.  I rarely make them these days, but everything in moderation, right?

 I decided to can the stock in pints yesterday, as I had all quarts on the shelves, and sometimes recipes call for less.  While sitting with the canner, I worked on some stitchery. I've enjoyed doing some handwork recently.  Not long ago, I finished cross-stitching the bib up top for J & I's little grandbaby.  Above is a peek at one of the things I've been working on for the shop.  I've used a variety of thrifted fabrics.  This one was a tablecoth that had some stains, so I'm going to use the good pieces for some stitched items.  When there are enough items, I'll be listing them. Today, I'm heading to Body, Earth & Imagination, an art show by my dear friend Carey Smith.  Wishing you the loveliest of weekends!