Hi friends! Happy Monday! I am wishing you a great week ahead....and only three weeks until Christmas! Wow! I wish I could stop time for a couple weeks, and get everything done, and then resume the holiday season! Are you ready for the holidays yet? Our home is about 1/2 decorated both inside and out but it's looking festive. Heck, that may be all that happens this year... Yesterday we went to a wonderful outdoor craft fair and enjoyed the beautiful chilly weather and sunshine... And an old fashioned ice rink with carols.... It definitely feels holiday-y in my part of the world. I haven't posted here on my blog since Thanksgiving but I'm back today with a finished cross stitch project that I completed on Saturday!
This year has been super super hard for me and my hubs. It's been hard emotionally, physically, mentally, and financially....and here we are at the end of the year. You know what? We made it! We made it through everything that tried to break us this year. The good Lord made sure we were provided for every step of the way and for that I am VERY grateful. Spiritually I am very strong. However, I sit here feeling kind of numb and so so so tired. I haven't crafted a card in about two weeks or posted on Instagram for a long time. It's not like me, but I'm trying to give myself some time, space, and grace. I am a happy crafter - so I find it really hard to be creative when I'm not feeling my usual upbeat self. In case you're feeling down or discouraged, let me be the first to send a hug and some kind words....It's okay. The world is A LOT right now. Just do the best you can and take it one thing at a time. I love you guys and I hope you're doing great! Thank you for being here with me all year!
My project for today is a fun Winter/Christmas themed cross stitch. I bought this pattern four years ago (!) when I was lucky enough to visit The Attic Needleworks in Mesa, Arizona in person! It is a wonderful shop full of inspiration and amazing cross stitch items!! I am really glad I got to go there. I bought a few patterns that day, and finally made this one!
The pattern is called Frosty's Night Out and it's from Blackbird Designs. I used 14 Count Aida fabric - in blue, with a piece from my stash. I'm sorry that I can't remember the exact color or where I bought it. I used the called for Fancy Floss colors. I did a simple finish in a hoop and I will be giving him as a gift for a friend. I added a black and white gingham bow because it already feels kind of vintage!! For size reference - the hoop it's on is a seven inch hoop.
As we know, I love anything gingham!!
I love the variety of snowflakes that surround Mr. Frosty! They were fun to stitch!
Look at his pink cheeks and carrot nose. Quite handsome, don't you think?!
Here's the front of the pattern book! I love it when patterns come in this format - so much easier to read and follow! This pattern is readily available online now if you google the title. It was a pretty easy stitch with lots of pretty colors.
That's it for me today!! Good to be back with you here on the bloggy blog. I hope you have a great week and a great holiday season! I'm not sure what I'll post next.... I do have a fun Greetery project to show you next week, though. I'm trying not to put a ton of pressure on myself to create. I figure it will come when it comes.... I've been stamping/paper crafting for 30 years next year!! Honestly sometimes I can't believe I can keep making new stuff. LOLZ. Sending out hugs your way today. XOXO
As always, if you're crafty shopping, I would be very grateful if you use my links to my favorite shops and help me out! Also, I've updated my gift ideas section in my Amazon Storefront, so you can check that out too!! Thank you!
Hello Wanda, I like the Frosty Night
Out, they are very pretty. I hope you can help me find the Twelve Days of Christmas cross-stitch ornaments.
Getting ready for cold weather that's on its way to Texas.Keep on touch, thanks.
Posted by: Maria Rodriguez | 01/11/2024 at 11:30 AM
Hi Wanda, my is Maria Rodriguez and been looking the Twelve days of Christmas. I can't find in magazines. I am interested in doing them as an ornament for my Christmas tree for next this year. Can you help me? I would appreciate it very much. Thank you.
Posted by: Maria.O.Rodriguez | 01/11/2024 at 11:18 AM
Beautiful stitching! Such a cute project. Blessings to you and your family.
Posted by: lee | 12/09/2023 at 03:47 AM
Such a wonderful xstitch project, Wanda! I always love the patterns you choose, and your stitching and finishing is inspiring.
It is heart-wrenching to read that this year has been so difficult, in so many ways, for you and your husband. I am wishing you both rest, recovery, balance, good health, prosperity and cheer as you enter this last period of the year and head into the new year.
❤️❤️❤️
Posted by: Teresa C | 12/05/2023 at 07:32 PM
I love this guy! You did an amazing job on it. Sounds like you are having some holiday blues...I know you will snap out of it, soon. I can't imagine this crafty world without YOU!! I have been busy getting my cards ready to mail out. Just about done now. I made some folios for my sibblings this year. We had our family reunion in August and it was so nice to see everyone. I am enclosing some photos from Christmases past and some from the reunion. My oldest sister turned 86 in November! It is helpful to keep the memories alive in us all. Keep your chin up and yes God will take care of everything. Hugs...
Posted by: Anne Sturgeon | 12/05/2023 at 01:39 PM
SUCH LOVELY STITCHING, Wanda! You did a WONDERFUL JOB on this! ;) Your friend, whoever it is, will LOOOVE IT!
As for feeling somewhat down, Ask the Lord to help you! I was feeling kind of blah too, trying to figure out WHAT to do for my Christmas Cards this year, even with having the latest & greatest in product.... I asked the Lord to help me. And I finally figured out WHAT to do & just finished them up yesterday! (I TRY NOT to just copy others for Christmas cards.) Then, I listened to something, that just reinforced I chose the RIGHT theme for my cards! I'm ready to make MORE things now! God is so good to give us encouragement when we need it & creativity too! After-all, HE is THE CREATOR! BLESSINGS!!!! ;)
Posted by: Becky Green | 12/05/2023 at 09:11 AM
Hi, Wanda - I'm in the same boat as you. I have no time to do anything but work and when I do, I am so beat that maybe I can read. Usually I watch TV. I have scads of unopened packages from stamp / craft companies... no time even to open things let alone craft w/ them. My church may have to close... too few people and too little $ to keep it open much longer. Depressing.
I love this little snowman! He is charming and adorable! I would love to receive this, so take it from me: whoever is the lucky recipient should treasure it.
Have a happy holiday, in case you aren't on your blog again before the holiday. Know that I care about you.
Lori S in PA
Posted by: spilor / Lori Spitzer | 12/05/2023 at 07:47 AM
He is adorable. You brought life to him . Your projects are always fabulous.
The New Year will soon be here with 365 days to make a better year.
Hugs to you.
Posted by: Geneva Null | 12/05/2023 at 07:45 AM
Hi Wanda! I hear you about how tough this year has been. You made it and I'm so very grateful. (I'm making it, too) Your snowman is adorable and your stitching is so beautiful. I appreciate your honesty and perseverance. Sending you a great big virtual hug!
Posted by: Jeanne | 12/05/2023 at 04:09 AM
Well he is just one handsome lad!!!!! You did an amazing job on this guy! YOU ALWAYS DO A GREAT PROJECT! I want to send you a huge hug! I totally get it...life can sure be a hard one and I am feeling it too. It so nice that you share a part of you on your blog so that others know they are not alone. Thank-you for being YOU!
Posted by: Christine Dol | 12/05/2023 at 04:02 AM