Thursday, March 24, 2011

Nothin' Shaking Here

It's been a pretty uneventful couple of weeks around the old homestead - busy, but uneventful.  A little stitching, a little quilting, and a lot of running.  The stitching....well, I'm going to save that for next week (fingers crossed) as I'm hoping that my oldest WIP (well, actually the second oldest) will finally be finished, released from its scroll rods and I can display the sampler in all its full glory.  But we'll see.....I'm not known for being the quickest stitcher.  So in lieu of any in progress stitching, I'll show you one that I picked up from the framers not too long ago:

The Apple Tree Sampler
Hawkins House
DMC threads and 36 ct. Buttercream Linen

This one was another fun one with the funky colors.  When I look at it I wonder why I can't seem to stitch more of the smaller pieces because it's so nice to have a quicker finish and then you can move on to something else.  But truth be told I do more frogging on a smaller piece than I do on a BAP.  I don't know why that happens, but I do!!!  

I did manage to get the last Farmer's Wife blocks done and probably just in a knick of time because I'm sure the next batch will be showing up any day:


Seasons, Rosebud, Railroad, Shooting Star 

That Shooting Star block was a real persnickety one and I'm not sure that I'm all that happy with it because my points aren't the best, but I think that I may be calling that one a wrap.  We'll see.

One of the things that has been keeping me busy this past couple weeks are all the errands and things that us moms (and non-moms, too) do.  One of those errands was to take Mr. Bailey to the groomers.  He's never been before. Probably not a good thing.  I didn't realize that a dog needed to be groomed as often as they recommend.  Live and learn, and this was a real learning experience.  But I had been holding out on taking him in because it was so darned cold around here and if that dog could, he'd spend his entire day menacing squirrels, birds, dogs, etc., outside.  So I held off, but it was time.  This is my canine dust mop before his grooming (holding one of his favorite treats):

Looks a little shabby, doesn't he?  I can't tell you the number of times I had to cut that hair over his eyes.  But he was getting difficult to brush and we had a rather warm day last week and he looked miserable, so it was time.   Unfortunately, I didn't recognize the poor boy when he was finished!  This is what I was shocked to see after his wash, cut (no color), manicure and whatever else they do at an appointment at the Urban Dog Spa:

Seriously, it this the same dog?  OMG!  I was positive that they had given me the wrong dog.  From going to a fluffy furball, to something that when he's standing, looks like a greyhound with a poodle's head!  Although as you look at that picture don't you get the thought that he knows that he looks pretty dapper and is ready to show his new coiffure off to the ladies in the neighborhood???  Either that or he's thinking, "What the heck did you do to me?"  Unfortunately, it's so short that I have to dress him in my daughter's sweaters to take him for a walk so his lady friends can't see his handsome self.  But seriously, it's taken me a couple days to realize he's my dog.  I know he is because he comes to the name Bailey, loves to chase me around with his toys and when my back is turned he's helping himself to treats in the pantry.  So I know he's mine, but it's just such a shock to see him!!

The only other interesting things that have happened around here was that I picked up a couple more pincushion dolls in the past couple weeks.  One was a doll that Terri had brought as an auction item for the Kindred Spirit's Guild annual auction.  Seems that whenever she brings one of these things for some of our different Guild events,  I fight other women walk away with it:


Isn't she pretty?

Then a couple days later I took some things over the Salvation Army to donate and for some reason can never withhold making a quick dash through to see what they have.  Imagine my surprise when I came across this pretty box:

And inside the box was this:

How could I pass it up?  The lace around its neck looks like someone replaced what used to be there with some more run-of-the-mill type lace, but somewhere in my stash I have some old lace from my other antique jaunts that I can put around it to keep it more authentic.  Anyway, a very surprising score from the SA!!

Well, that's about it for me.  It's been busy and not real crafty.  Maybe I'll have more time this weekend.  My son is off once again to Grand Rapids for the Business Professionals State Competition, and having one less body around usually means a little less hectic weekend.  Fingers crossed his team does well.

Thanks to everyone who leave such wonderful comments and a big welcome to some new people that have become followers.  I'm so glad you stopped by, and whether you leave a comment or not, it's wonderful to see you and to discover your blogs (if you have one).  Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!!

46 comments:

Yvette said...

OOOH! I love seeing you knock out those FW blocks, the fabrics you are given are just beautiful! You must be getting close to getting this ready to put together.

Bailey is a DOLL!! My dogs never look the same after picking them up either.

Kelly said...

Bailey is so cute. He will feel so much better when it gets hot out. (Going on the assumption that it will get warm one day!) Love the flower frogs and pin cushions.

Bertie said...

Love your sampler, the colours are great too, love the frame:))

OMG indeed, what have they done to your poor dog, I rather liked him shabby chic, it's far to cold still, but thankfully it will grow again:)

Your so lucky to find this box, how unusual, it's gorgeous!

Jennifer Ann Fox said...

Bailey is so handsome, Deb! He looks so different!!!! I'm looking over now at my little one who is sleeping on her back in between 2 pillow cushions with the bed head of the year...LOL

Jennifer

Alice said...

My goodness Bailey shines up like a new penny! So cute. I'm looking forward to your stitching pics.

Berit said...

You say nothing but it seems like a lot to me! :D Great frame-up and I love the Bailey story--lol!

Loving your current top banner--I see that bullseye quilt, darnit!

Bekca said...

Wow, Bailey looks so different! I can see why you might not recognise him at all LOL
Love the frame you've chosen for the Apple Tree Sampler and can't wait to see what's been stitching. Best wishes.

Margaret said...

I was cracking up over your not recognizing Bailey when he came home. lol! He's a cutie, both ways! It really is a huge difference though, isn't it? Handsome boy! I'm glad Mia doesn't need grooming -- except for those darn claws. lol! She's getting better about that though. I think.

Looooove your Apple Tree Sampler!!!! Gorgeous frame, and I just love the colors on this one. I think I may have to pull that chart out. Nice that it calls for DMC. Did you see the GPA stitched doll? I'm not sure whether it's a pincushion or not, but it would look nice with your collection. I like your newest one. Nice box with a nice surprise inside too! Hope your weekend is less hectic like you're hoping!

Teresa S. said...

OK-I admit it, I have Apple Tree Sampler on my Crazy January Challenge list and have been avoiding it. But, my gosh, I am going to get going on it! Your sampler turned out beautiful! Now I am reminded why I chose it :) And your pincushion dolls I am seriously envious of-just gorgeous!

Chocolates4Breakfast (Terri Malinovich) said...

Poor Sophie looks a lot like a miniature Bailey when she comes home from the groomer, too!

Your Apple Tree Sampler looks great and I can't wait for the Big AM reveal!!!!!

Love the pincushion doll you found at the store - funny, in the pic, the lace looks really old to me. You lucky girl, you!

Andrea said...

What a great finish Deb! Love it!
Doesn't Bailey look handsome!! My goodness, I can see why you have to hide his sexiness from the lady doggies in the neighborhood ;-)
Cool SA find!!
xoxo

BrendaS said...

Love your framed sampler and can't wait to see your "big reveal":))))

Your quilt blocks look stunning as always.

Bailey does look so different. It will be a good cut for the spring/summer.

Nice finds at the Salvation Army. I'm never any good at finding "good stuff" and I'm always amazed at what other people find. Lucky you!

Have a great weekend.

Mouse said...

love the framed sampler ... poor bailey has been rather "shauned " but he does look like he he is posing with his new do ..lol . great work on the quilt blocks and can't wait for the reveal either :) love mouse xxxx

Linda said...

I love the new framed sampler and Bailey does look quite different...he looks so cute both ways!

Siobhán said...

Oooh, I love that frame! Great FW blocks, too. I love Bailey's pose--he does look rather proud of himself! I took Duffy to a new groomer last June & when he came home (dropped off by the groomer), he ran past me with his tail between his legs, while I asked if it was MY dog. She didn't listen when I said, "Do the classic Cavalier King Charles cut". LOL

I can't wait to see your Ann! Go go go go1

Myra said...

Your sampler looks gorgeous all framed up. Baily is quite the handsome one sporting that new hairdo - amazing what those groomers can do, isn't it? Great find at the thrift store too.

sampler lover said...

Hi Deb, Mr Bailey looks quite dapper in his new hair do. Isn't lovely to run your hands overs his fur at the moment lol.
What a wonderful find from the Sally's. You have the knack of finding the most wonderful things sometimes my friend lol. She goes so well with the one that your ran away with sorry I mean won at your Guild.
Your Sampler looks lovely all framed up and we are going so well with your FW blocks. I am looking forward to seeing Ann finished (me to she says lol). - Sandra.

Michelle said...

Love love love your framed Apple Tree Sampler. I keep thinking I should work on smaller things too, but somehow I always pick huge projects! Your Farmer's Wife blocks are looking great and I definitely think your shooting star block looks fine! Will they always clip Bailey so much? Hope he likes his new look!

JOLENE said...

What fabulous pincushion finds! You know I am jealous....don't you? I love the doll with the full pink gown with crocheted lace. She reminds me of my Grandma Hatch. Your A&E sampler turned out beautiful! And looks even more awesome framed. How do you ever find the time to finish all those BAP's you start?? You're amazing. Your Farmers Quilt blocks are pretty, I have the pattern book for that one but won't even start it until 2012. But, I am adding fabric to the stash pile for it.

Give Bailey a hug from me and an eskimo kiss! Missing you my friend!

Smiles....

valerie said...

Wow, look at Bailey! He looks so different. I kind of like his shabby look but he cleans up real nice. Congrats on your gorgeous framing! Apple Tree looks terrific as do your quilt blocks. I love the pincushion find of Terri's...it's very cute! Hope the weather warms up for you soon!

Tanya said...

I love the pincushion dolls. What a lucky find in the box! Bailey does look different, doggie makeover. I bet he feels better though. I like your frame chose.

TeresaB said...

I don't think I'd seen a picture of anyone's finished Apple Tree sampler. It looks fantastic! And Bailey looks pretty spiffy himself, even if he doesn't look quite the same.

Diane (di) said...

Oh my goodness Deb. The Apple Tree sampler is just gorgeous. The colors are so pretty. Great job my dear! Now personally, I think Mr. Bailey is quite handsome before AND after. He looks a little like 'really Mom?'; but heck that just makes you want to hug him even more!! :) Im drooling over those FW blocks, too.

Sylvia said...

Wow, what a before & after pic of Bailey. He is handsome both ways, although I prefer the shaggy look ( maybe because that is what my sweet Mia is sporting right now, and I am trying to convince myself that I am not a bad doggie mama for letting her get all fuzzy).
Love your Apple Tree sampler - I want to stitch that one, but it calls for all Belle Soie - insanity!! I like how it looks in DMC - so I might go that route.

Sally said...

I love your framed piece. It is absolutely stunning.

Aww bless Bailey! He looks so cute:)

Carol said...

Your Apple Tree Sampler is gorgeous, Deb--love the bright pink A & E!!

Unbelievable difference in Bailey--I wonder if he would even recognize himself in the mirror? I'm sure it's much easier to take care of him with shorter hair...

Lovely and unique pincushions--you always find such fun things!

Loraine said...

What a fabulous post! Love your finish. The colors are bright, but I really like them! I can't wait to see your Ann Meade What a fabulous finish it will be!
Your pincushion finds are to die for. Sometimes the thrift stores will surprise you, but I've never found anything quite so wonderful, no wonder you were thrilled.
Are you sure you have the right dog? oh my goodness, he looks different! What a cute thing though. I'm sure it will be easier to take care of the short hair, but he is probably freezing! I'm cold just looking at him! LOL
Your Farmers wife is looking so great. I can't wait to see it finished up as well. Still working on your DJ blocks. I will get them done this weekend if it kills me! LOL.
Have a great day, and many hugs to you!

Rugs and Pugs said...

Deb ~
You always get so much done!!! I feel like such a slacker...lol!
Mr. Bailey...to be honest, I think he is much cuter as the shaggy dog, but I'm sure he'll feel better when the weather gets warmer...if it ever does. We had some flurries this morning but thankfully nothing stuck.
Pug hugs :)
Lauren

Blu said...

Great blocks! And sampler looks great!

I have to say that Bailey looked better before the makeover.

Sherry said...

Your framed piece is just wonderful. I love the colors. You are really coming along on your quilt blocks. You will a really great quilt when you finish them all. It has been super busy around here too with DH in the hospital and that always makes me a nervous wreck.

Katherine said...

That poor dog. He looks embarrassed to me. Love the pincushion doll. We saw one at Woodlawn this week that had a cross stitched skirt. Not sure I like the doll-headed pincushion.

Robin said...

You always find such wonderful treasures wherever you go! Absolutely love your framed sampler finish! Have you decided where to hang it yet or do you have it propped up where you can see it often until you decide? (That's what I do.) Can't wait to get a look at your second oldest WIP.

The before and after pictures of Bailey are surprising. I wouldn't have guessed it was the same dog. He must have felt kinda weird for a few days! He is very handsome!

Jackie's Stitches said...

Bailey looks a lot different! I can see where he might be a bit cold.

You always find the best stuff!

marly said...

From Golden Doodle to Poodle! What a sweetie. Glad to hear I'm not the only one that has trouble with smalls!

marylin said...

your stitches very beautiful !
I love the dog ...

marylin France

Nancy M said...

Your framed piece looks great as usual. As far as Bailey goes, did you give them carte blanc?? I don't know if Golden/Poodles have a specific cut (like a schnauzer) or if they just shaved him all over. I'm sure it was a shock to him and you!!! LOL Plus he's probably wondering where his coat is since it's been so darn cold the past week! I should see my quilt tomorrow. So far I only paid $100 for her to put it together. I told her I would give her more once I saw it!

Lois said...

Love Apple Tree Sampler! Just love the bright colours. Great quilt blocks and oh my, Bailey does look like he's thinking he's pretty dapper! I'm not surprised you were questioning if it was the same dog but he does look stylish!! Great finds!

Dona said...

Bailey did get a trim! He looks like he is comfortable with it, too!

Your Apple Tree Sampler looks so nice framed!

Anonymous said...

WOW...what a lucky thrift store find. And love the Ann Grant you are working on...love the border especially. Some quilt blocks can sure be difficult...but yours do look lovely. You seem to accomplish a LOT!

Anonymous said...

wow, Great finds!!! and that scissor holder behind the doll is WAY TOO COOL!

LiahonaGirl said...

Your Apple Tree stitchery turned out wonderfully! And the framing really enhances it. Love the before and after pics of your dog.

Littlebit said...

Oh, I do love that Apple Tree Sampler, Debbie! And that's Buttercream! I just got my first piece and can hardly wait to use it..luscious!
I honestly thought that was two different dogs! He's too cute!

Karoline said...

Apple Tree Sampler is gorgeous, great framing and your quilt blocks are lovely

Katrina said...

Bailey looks so handsome :-). I take my dogs to the groomers every 5-6 weeks.

Love your A&E, gorgeous frame and the quilt blocks are so pretty! Great antiqueing finds too.

merumo said...

The Apple Tree Sampler is looking farbulous in the frame! And look at your cute doggie!! What a great "Before" and "After" picture of him!! Thanks for a good laugh :)))

Shelly said...

The framed sampler looks great! Do you have glass on your framed projects? I'm up in the air about that. What little framing I've done on my small stuff, I framed without glass. Just wondering! Cute dog!