Didi's beaded goodies

Two months done

2012-02-06T10:40:00.001Z

Janaury BJP for 2012

I have decided that for 2012 BJP I will make a beaded item each month. Every year I spend the first 4 to 4 months making christmas balls for presents and classes. The january ball was made at Oakura beach from my own design and using quite a lot of reverse stitching (it now needs a name and I won't be teaching this pattern at all but may do a simpler one).

Febraury Ball for BJP - Tania's feathers

February's ball is a combination of patterns and I have called it Tania's feathers as it is a variation on the Tania pattern that I have. You can see the Honeycomb pattern with the feathers trim in the background. I am currently making another one as this will be a class so that I can teach my pupils the ribbed stitch which is lovely.

Home a week

2012-01-29T08:37:00.002Z

Well I have been home a whole week and it feels as if it was a lifetime ago. School is back in earnest with full days and lunch at school (I have a new lunch bag courtesy of Macy's) so that was fun.
This weekend Dad and I went to the beach to see mum who has been there for the week. It was nice weather and I took some stitching but ended up making a ball for my sister in law Cathy and trying out a new pattern today. Not certain if I will make another one or even teach it but it was fun using some different colours. have to think about how the bottom will be finished.

Purl Soho - nice shop lower manhattan

Just thought I would put a couple of pictures from new york on here for all to see. We went to the 9/11 memorial site - very security conscious and long way to walk but it will be incredible when all the new buildings are finished.

Stephanie with new World Trade Centre Tower 1 being built.

From the Empire state down to WTC Plaza

Empire State, WTC from Rockefeller Centre.

On our way home

2012-01-20T04:58:00.001Z

We are on our way home. Travelling in the airport shuttle and seemingly doing a tour of manhattan as well. Had text from Ewan and his show for Apple has gone well so pleased. Weather here on our last day is -6•C so good to get home to the warm.
Been flying 3 hours and old fashioned plane with one movie screen so not watching but listening to music instead. Nice earphones we have as well which seem to drown out noise quite well. Have to buy food so we prepared with muesli bars but not actually hungry today, thirsty and drinks keep coming around.
New York taxi drive landing in LAX which was fun. Walked across to terminal two and into koru lounge so currently having a cups and a snack.

Home again. The flight was not too bad, quite a nice temperature without being too hot so that we both got some sleep. The earphones were just great and really meant that the air noise was drowned out almost completely. Could not believe how noisy it was when took them off. Watched a couple of movies Kung Fu Panda2 and Crazy Stupid Love plus episodes of Glee which was good. So nice having own video to watch.
Andrea met us at international with a giant sign (about six inches square). Drove over to domestic and checked bag in, had coffee and waited for flight to New Plymouth. Pleased to be home and nice not to have crowds around. Weather is warm.!!!!!!

Holiday was wicked

2012-01-19T05:45:00.001Z

Today was our last day so we decided to visit a section of the city called Canal Street as we had to find the Bose shop for friends of stephanie's. Purl Soho was also down this area, so we managed to call in there also. Got two skeins of wool for her. Had a real Italian lunch which was a delight. Bought a pile of presents today, shopping with a vengance today. Bused uptown to Macy's for shopping and bought a Macy's lunch bag, very cute. Onto NHL shop via HBO and more last minute gifts. Back to dead sea scrolls exhibition, which was a nice reflective end to our holiday.
Back to the hotel and commencement of the packing saga. Mostly done and downstairs to happy hour where we spent time talking to a couple from Pennsylvania. Out at 7pm to go to the Gershwin Theatre to see "Wicked". It was fabulous and a fitting end to our holiday. Back to Times Square, visit to Walgrens to get last minute chocolates and pack the bags. Last night sleep and up in the morning to have the last breakfast and airport transfer in the morning.
Thanks Stephanie for a great holiday.
Diane

Day three New York City

2012-01-18T04:41:00.001Z

Blog notes
16 Jan: mum and Dad wedding anniversary. Went early and did washing. Tried porridge for brekkie but not nice. Booked tickets to wicked for Wednesday. Caught bus to water taxi and to Battery Park to visit 9/11 Memorial. Really cold day today.
Walked along wall street - cut off from traffic then water taxi back to pier 88. Bus M50 to Madison ave and walked up to 71 to Laduree shop. Bought macaroons to take home. On bus to carriage ride talking to ladies about a Sotheby's exhibition. Needlework samplers.
Carriage ride fun but cold, wandered to display centre afterwards, then bus on 6th/m42 to times square.
Did Madame tussauds nice but not crowded. Just photo op things rather than displays.
17 Jan; today was a wet day so we had decided to visit the museums. Got to the metropolitan museum of art and straight in as not too many there. Wandered the Egyptian section and was suitably amazed at the range of artifacts. Found ourselves having a restorative cup of tea and then into the impressionists and other paintings. So nice we like the same paintings. Contact with Ewan so we walked up to the Guggenheim museum and met him for lunch. Went to Lexington grill and had pastrami on rye with a snapper. Nice!!
Around the Guggenheim and was strangest artwork we have seen this trip. Back to the mma for a view if the 9/11 quilt and then hotel for a rest before hockey. More on that tomorrow.
Only one day to go and we will nearly be home.
Diane

New York disaster

2012-01-15T12:57:00.001Z

Lost my iPod with all blog updates that u had not posted but can say that rest of time in Paris was great. Did lots more walking and we seemed to find metro stations with the furtherest interchanges possible. Musee d'Orsay was fabulous on Wednesday morning and saw heaps of new paintings that had not been on my radar before. Train trip back was food until we got to Ashford.
Here are some photos of Paris to keep you happy as they are of us with the Eiffel tower.

1500 steps and counting

2012-01-09T22:12:00.001Z

A broken night with a txt and then a false fire alarm meant that the first night in Paris was fun. Up and finding a patisserie for breakfast, then to the Trocadero for Eiffel Tower visit. Cloud meant we caught the bus to the place de la Concorde instead and did the Tuilieres Gardens. Great walk through and into the pyramid-shades of da Vinci code. Queue time was about 20 minutes and then off to find the treasures which were amazing. Looked for Vermeer's Lacemaker and all there was was the mark on the wall.
Once we left and onto the bus again via notre Dame and champ de elysses. Photos then hotel for recharge of all batteries and back on the metro fort Notre Dame. Great photos and dusk bought more shots. Metro again and back to the Arc de Triomphe to climb to the top with a sustenance stop at McDonalds. Macaroons and more steps bought us back to the hotel after a full day of marvels and wonders.

Sacre Coeur and Eiffel tower

2012-01-08T20:58:00.001Z

A most wonderful day as we travelled on Eurostar to Paris for three days. The train no sooner left Ashford than we seemed to be in the tunnel and on our way. France seemed much drier than England but our arrival in Paris was just after our quick lunch. A taxi to our hotel, check in, txt to Melissa and a cuppa while we waited for her. At 2pm we met in the foyer and went off exploring.
A decision to walk to the Montmartre and Sacre Coeur found us looking at all the artists and their works in the square. We both purchased a watercolour to take home. The basilica was fabulous and our first sight of the Eiffel tower was the realization that we were here!!!!
We caught the Metro to Trocadero and it was dusk so the tower was well lit. Many photo angles later we had crossed the Seine and were standing underneath. Wandering around it was time for Melissa to leave us and we parted. Such a pleasure to see her. Stephanie and I then wandered our way along the Seine, crossed and found a metro station to return us to the hotel. Dinner was at a local Lebanese which was nice. Back to the hotel and the sound of trains to send us to sleep. A great day in gay Paree!!!!

The Ritz and Kettering

2012-01-08T12:50:00.001Z

7 Jan: today is the Ritz. Most fabulous start to the day with getting up in time to say bye to Peter. Breakfast with Jane and then off to catch another train. Nice trip down with an interesting seat companion - part of Kettering 6 football followers. Almost compelled me to follow him to reading. Got to Charing Cross and met the girls. Wandered along to Twinings shop and then it was time to walk to the Ritz. Met Dawn so went in. Tried out the powder room and checked our coats into the cloakroom. Very refined and seated by frock coated gentlemen. Service was delightful. Tried silver needle tea then plain green tea, both which were nice. Sandwiches kept coming as did offers of cakes and scones. Most delightful conversation with some serious bloopers by whole party. Afterwards a walk around Fortnum and Mason's then onto Leicester Square. Decided no food was needed so had food for the soul instead and went to see "The Artist" which was the most amazing movie. Most expensive train home to Chartham and then to pack one bag between us for tomorrow's trip to Paris.
Many thanks to Stephanie for a great afternoon and lovely to catch up with Dawn again.
6 Jan: John Collett's birthday today. David foster came in for coffee this morning and it was wonderful to see him, just like the year's had not gone by. Dinner with all the family which was nice. Also got a we look at Jenny's granddaughter Emily.

Relaxing before the Ritz

2012-01-06T22:38:00.000Z

I have been very spoilt for the last couple of days while staying with my cousin Jane and family in Kettering. Jenny, Jane and I went out for coffee yesterday which became lunch and then a drive around the pictureskew villages around Kettering. Tried to get a photo of Boughton House but not a great shot but did get the windymills by Burton Latimer as well as the biggest warehouse I have ever seen.

Eleanor Cross at Geddington

Jenny and Jane at Warkton

We did try to have another cuppa at the various tea shops in the villages but we were not very successful.

Jane and David

Jenny and baby Emily

Thursday evening we met up with Ben and fiance Alyssa for dinner at Frank and Benny's a chain restaurant which was quite nice.

Ben and Alyssa

Peter, Jane, Toby, John and Jenny

Friday cousin David came for a visit before he started work and he is looking well, just slightly older like all of us. I then went over to Jenny and John's for the day so we had good times sitting and talking, a couple of walks up to the post office and then a look at all Jenny's cards. She has done some beautiful cross stitched cards which are just amazing. She is also doing some papercraft cards and these are great. She is very clever and enjoying her retirement. Jane, Peter and Toby came for tea which was nice.

High winds at Paitshill

2012-01-03T17:31:00.001Z

had a quiet morning. Slept in again so nearly missed my porridge. Wind outside was horrendous and Stephanie kept mentioning that the wind was dying down. Power outage at 9.30 am so lucky we were at farm and could use the Ava for poking lunch. Lovely hearty casserole and tatties. Got to berwick station to find no trains going from there but they are going from Newcastle. Decided to get a taxi to Newcastle £80 so watt gave us some money (think he wanted to get rid of the wee one). Nice driver, Mark, took great care on drive with winds and rain. Got on trail with minutes to spare and lots of choice for seats as train set up for Aberdeen. Journey back to Langham and my cloud bed was great. Nice thing about this breaks as I did lots of my Latvian embroidery and have completed the inside border.2 Jan: Neil's birthday today so sent him an email. Did washing and had to wear my gloves to hang it out. It was blowing a mild gale but not too chilly so day was nice. Went down to the village and gave Ida a surprise so that was nice. After lunch went to visit Dave in his new house, which is really nice and suitable for him. He has done a lot of work with putting in walls, closing up doorways and even a bit of painting. Had a nice cuppa, Dave very proud of the new house and all his achievements. Back to the farm via Eyemouth and the coast road to take in the sights. A new year's party at Judy and David Morrison's in the evening finished off a busy day. Was a great party really nice to meet some of the new neighbours and catch up with the old.1 Jan a nice start to the new year wwith a sleep in and leisurely breakfast with David and Gillian. Travel down to Paitshill which was about 35 minutes away. So nice to see Watt and heather again, life has almost not missed the sixteen years since I've been here. A walk along the road feed the hens collect eggs and the Dave came for roast cockerel dinner which was really yummy. Back in the same bedroom not many changes at all.

Family and the new year

2012-01-02T11:51:00.001Z

David, Me, Muriel and Gillian in the tropical Edinburgh evening

We got to Edinburgh and after a walk along Princes Street to our hotel we hit the shops. I txt David and he had his mum with him so met us for dinner at TGIF. Gillian was in town also so we met her and had a wonderful meal with lots of banter. Not the warmest of weathers but still not raining so that was great. Our hotel is slightly more budget than the Langham In London.

David and \stephanie in the officers ward room

New years eve we were taken to visit the Royal yacht Britannia which was fabulous. check out stephanie's blog for a great photo of us. the yacht must have been a fabulous place for the royal family to relax. not so much for the staff though.

At Paitshill and all the lithgows real and married. Nice to see some things don't change.

My runner looks great on Heather's kitchen cabinet so I am pleased that she likes it. We did well Marilyn.
Hope that all have a great new year and happy birthday to neil.
Diane

Torchlight and Vikings

2011-12-30T21:44:00.001Z

We spent the day exploring Edinburgh, starting with a walk up the royal mile to photo the castle and a decision to forgo the tour and have breakfast. Deacon Brodie's cafe was the stop for bacon rolls and the story of Deacon Brodie who designed the hanging machine that was used to kill him. Further down the royal mile and a walk around St Giles. This is a stunning church. Off then to the bus station to meet Stephanie's friend Isobel who came for lunch on a 50p bus ticket. We went for lunch at the Scottish gallery cafe again. It started raining so a cultural afternoon was called for with a walk around the National Gallery of Scotland. Once Isobel was put back on the bus to Aberdeen we went via the Dome Hotel, more shopping, afternoon tea and the hotel to get ready for the torchlight parade. This was really neat and we watched the Vikings head off towards the Mound followed by pipers and thousands of torch bearers. Met up with David and more walking to North Bridge to wait for the fireworks which were fun. The evening finished with the biggest fish suppers in our room and chocolate of course. Happy Hogmany everyone.

Diane

On our way north

2011-12-30T10:54:00.001Z

After the best night's sleep in a bed like floating on a cloud with great pillows we are on our way to Edinburgh. We spent the day in London shopping and being tourists as we had to cost Madame Tussauds to get the picture of Colin Firth. As well as George, Daniel, etc. the queue was horrendous but fortunately we had decided to purchase our tickets online so we saved about an hours queue time. Scream section meant that Stephanie and I got close as we all know I don't do well in the dark with flashing lights ( shades of gold coast came back to me).
Shopping into selfridges and amazing things there for sale. Not on sale was a mobile for £6000. Could not get stephanie to buy one though. Met up with Tina and we went off to Covent Garden for dinner and a walk around. Went to a great Mexican restaurant called Pacifico which was delicious. Hottest salsa ever had.
The Langham is out of this world and tried out the bath when we got back. Stephanie took plenty of photos so we have the proof that we lived like the rich and famous for a night.
Happy new year to all.
Diane

Adventure starts

2011-12-28T17:37:00.001Z

Today Stephanie and I left the safe world of Chartham to head for the big smoke London. First stop was to drop off our bags at the Langham Hotel In Portland Place. It was beautiful and the toilets to die for. Wait until you see the photos of the room. Thanks Natalie.
We then went down regent street as far as Piccadilly and then tubed it up to Madame Tussauds to see Colin Firth. Great queues but fortunately we had booked online tickets so quicker. A wonderful look around despite the crowds and then back to Bond Street. Boots is still there.
Lunch at a nice place and into selfridges to explore. Stephanie spent her Christmas present which was good. A walk along Oxford Street to the Circus and back to the Langham. We checked in and have an upgrade so the room is wonderful.
Dinner with Tina tonight and perhaps the London eye then off to Edinburgh tomorrow.

Stephanie with Daniel and Judy

I found myself a new man.

Castles and beaches

2011-12-27T20:51:00.001Z

Christmas day was exciting with lots of present unwrapping and even Emma got into the act with tearing open the paper. I was spoilt with gifts from Virginia and Mark as well as the children gave me a present - a felt kit to make cake pincushions. (NB: I have already started the first one). Santa also left a big bag of chocolates and little gifts for myself and Stephanie. I have it on good authority that Santa is a big choclate fan.

Luke and Callum waiting with anticipation for more presents.

Boxing Day saw us pack the car and head off to Leeds Castle. Virginia informed us as we got there that we would be doing the Christmas trail - a scavenger hunt for clues to a fairytale and then we could have fun in the play area. The treasure hunt did not include the tour of the castle which was a side trip but the castle was beautifully decorated for christmas with a chocolate room, swanlake room and even an ice queen in the bathroom. Most fun was had in the big kids play area with Mark spinning the merry go round for Callum, Luke and myself.

Today we went to look at the beach at Whitstable via Chilhum. Chilhum is a village that appears in a number of movies and television series as it is very pictureseque and good for filming period pieces. The church at Chilhum was lovely and very majestic despite its tiny size. Also straight onto the market square is the required stately home which has its gardens open during the summer for people to visit. Houses all around were decorated for christmas as well. We got to Whitstable and walked down to the harbour then along the main road where we saw a number of shops open with sale items. On the way back we walked along the beach front (typical english beach with no sand just stones) with a stop for hot chips at the harbour, then more beachside walking until we passed all the beach huts. (£20000 these will sell for). Back home again and roast lamb for dinner tonight. Yumm!!

Stephanie and Virginia at the beach in Whitstable

Canterbury cathedral

2011-12-25T08:02:00.001Z

Yesterday Stephanie and I spent the day in Canterbury. It was fun shopping and I got some cool Christmas cards for next year. We had a yummy stop at the patisserie for morning tea then lunch was a Cornish pasty. The cathedral carol service started at 3pm but we were seated at 1.45 ish and only just managed to find a great seat in the nave. When the service started the lights dimmed and a choir boy soloist started with "Once in royal david's city" my all time favourite hymn. You could have heard a pin drop and it was spine chilling as only a few lights on. The Dean of Cathedral gave the homily and used his satnav as an entertains example. The service finished with the archbishop giving the last lesson. Very nice and he looked wonderful. Stephanie and I wandered around the quire area afterward and when leaving shook hands with the Dean and Archbishop. I was very cheeky and got a photo with the archbishop as I was the last person there. He was lovely and said he might be coming to NZ next year.

Me and the Archbishop of Canterbury.

The kiwi has landed.

2011-12-19T08:45:00.001Z

Got here and am at Tina's tucked up in bed having more snoozes. Very long flight from LA and the plane was full but we got two seats each. Was fun watched a number of movies (500 days of summer was funny). Nice food as usual and was pleased to see land.

Met up with Tina at airport so she got to meet Stephanie and Mark and the boys so that was great. Home to Croxley and streets looked a little like I remember with wonderful houses and trees. Tina has a nice place with lots of space and a big garden which they use so that is fun. Went for a crisp walk and toured the neighbourhood, temp was about 2 deg. Great sleep couldn't keep my eyes open after dinner ( Craig cooked roast chicken, so yummy). Now having some more sleep then get up and take a walk before heading out to meet up with Dawn at Debden.
I'll keep posting merry Christmas all, The Nativity is a great English film.
Diane

Halfway there

2011-12-17T22:56:00.001Z

Sitting in the transit lounge at LAX waiting to reboard. Was the longest checkin as forgot how quick it is when we check in at New Plymouth. Flight was bumpy in a few places. We had an upgrade to premium economy and were seated together so that was fun. Found the storage space when we arrived. Nice meals had salmon starter then lamb for main. Back in cattle class for next leg of journey so that will be okay as still get all the movies.

3 sleeps but who's counting

2011-12-14T10:57:00.000Z

3 sleeps but who is counting. have got everything into the bag and sorted out the purchasing for friends and family so things are tracking well. done all the christmas shopping and have only one present left to finish plus make a couple of extra things if I have time.
another busy day at school tomorrow with all the jobs to be done but I managed to get my 2012 diary done tonight so I feel prepared for the first week back.
decided at the last minute to buy a new handbag but can't find one I like so taking my current bag and will keep an eye out for a new one. This could be my christmas present. I am very picky with a handbag.
new phone is going okay and downloading songs onto ipod so have about 1500 so far done 50% of library.

Last week and getting excited

2011-12-12T08:29:00.001Z

Only five sleeps to go. Getting excited about the travels, but still busy at work and hoping to get all the jobs finished before thursday.
Lunch out today with the senior management team and they were all very impressed with our presents. Weigh in Fridays club has been a success in that we managed to pay ourselves lots of money to buy presents and go out for lunch and movies but not so much in the weight loss field. Still it saved us all putting in money for the presents and we managed to buy really nice things this year. Red / Yellow card cufflinks for Phil, a mini cake stand for Barbara and a mouse magnetic noughts and crosses for Wayne.
Opened a couple of Christmas presents tonight, since I will be in England I am not taking them with me.
Suzie gave me a trendy passport cover and luggage labels and Toni and Jack gave me a mini casserole dish and spoon. Most awesome as I love the microstoven ware by Maxwell and Williams. I now have four pieces.

New Christmas Tree

2011-12-07T08:47:00.001Z

Mum and I took delivery of these new christmas trees last weekend. They are really neat and a great way to display all the decorations. no leaf drop either.

I had my class make the sequinned dainty ball which was really fun. Another lady came along, Naomi and she really enjoyed it so we have another person to come to beading classes next year.

Tony and Dot outside my house with the mountain in the background on Tuesday night.

Dot (spare sister from Melbourne) gave us short notice that they were coming to stay. We had a great couple of days with them (Dot, Tony, Geoff and Pauline) all mixing in with the Stratford families. They managed to get to see the mountain, the only overseas visitors this year that have had the privilege so that was good.

Busy Finishing

2011-11-30T08:02:00.001Z

The election day went really well and I drove into the garage at 8.59pm so I was really thrilled. a low turnout which was a shame but we had a reasonably busy day so that was okay.

I have been busy finishing gifts for the trip overseas and also deciding on whether I will pariticipate in the BJP 2012. I am debating this and think that if I do it will be a series of small icons, gods and goddesses.
I have done four coathangers, coffee cup holders and half done a runner for a friend. I was going to go to Marilyns tonight to get the binding put on but i have done some christmas bookings instead. the train to my cousin's is booked and that is another thing off the list. I have also made ten christmas decorations, sat at the Percy Thompson gallery for the art society and started two more decorations for the class on monday night.

Work has been crazy and I have had two hours out today with Ultranet training and all day tomorrow with the practical session so I will be at school early to get things done before the class starts. I have to get the newsletter printed and the office staff will have to fold the senior reports into the envelopes ready for handing out. We have the last day on friday with the junior students prizegiving so that is it and then next week it is activities week and posting out of reports and other things.

guild christmas a success

2011-11-22T07:15:00.001Z

The 2011 Central Taranaki Guild Christmas party was a success with 30 members and guests enjoying a night of fun, frivolity and friendship. I did up the project kit which was found on the purl bee website.
I had lots of fun cutting them out and joining them up with vibrant threads.
The bottom photo is some of the finished brooches on the night. I will be using the remainder of the kits with a group of students at school during the activity week. Lots of fun and thanks to Molly and Laura of the Purl bee letting me us this pattern.

Stitching news

2011-11-09T08:45:00.000Z

Just a quick note to say that i have nearly finished all the bargello on canvas two of walk on the wild side - yeah.
started a 15 sided biscornu with my night class girls and it will be interesting. think mine might become a couple of cubes by the time i am finished as dont think i will get 15 sides done.
also onto christmas decoration number 6 and about 6 to go but need to find some more balls to use. It is a small pattern called sequin dainty that I have designed so quite excited about it and very simple. writing instructions next weekend and giving them to mum to trial.
been reading up on stuff for election and have training day on saturday so that will be fun. watched the DVD and it is great.
will publish pictures later this week.

One Present finished

2011-11-01T10:18:00.001Z

A Runner for Heather

Marilyn and I spent an evening sewing during Labour Weekend. She showed me how to do the French Braid pattern for quilting. I made this runner using Kiwi fabrics for Heather so it was quite fun. Taken me a while to hand stitch the hem but finished half an hour ago so I am posting it quick.

I have made the quilt top for another one to take to England and I need to quilt it then she can help me do the binding again. I have also made the outside for her bag and have now the inside with pockets and zips to close make then I need to put it all together. My night class ladies have asked for a class in this bag so I will continue this next year after a saturday class.

Organised my polling place for the national election on 26 November so it will be exciting. It looks to be a busy day as they have allocated me more staff than normal so I hope we are busy to make it worthwhile. The training will be fun.
I also have three visits to the theatre this month plus senior prizegiving so life is quite busy.
Keep up the stitching as I have started yet another project.
Diane

Winners at last!!

2011-10-24T00:00:00.001+01:00

Just a short note to say that the country is celebrating today as the world's biggest stadium held its collective breaths until 11pm last night when the final whistle was blown in the 2011 Rugby World Cup. 4 million New Zealanders gave a collective hurrah as Ritchie McCaw and his boys led the country home to the William Webb Ellis Trophy Champions. 24 years ago we won the inaugural cup in Auckland and it seems like Auckland is a lucky place.
Diane

busy holidays

2011-10-23T09:38:00.000+01:00

Well another holiday break has nearly finished and I have had a busy time, catching up with friends, rugby world cup is nearly over and some of the planned projects are done. The holidays started with a trip to Wanganui to take a canvas class in making a needle book or book cover which was loads of fun and inspiring as well.

Members enjoying a break at wonderful Payne's Palace Beach Retreat.

Last weekend was the annual Central Taranaki Embroidery Guild retreat to Opunake where we had ten people undertake a project from Stitch magazine - a winter sky. It was loads of fun and I have mostly completed mine as well as completed most of the bargello section from canvas two on Walk on the Wild Side. Nothing further has been done on this canvas this week but I expect to get some done when watching the rugby final tomorrow night.

Ten of the stitched projects from the weekend. My piece is the bottom right sunset piece.

The reason no stitching this week is a new toy - I am the proud owner of an IPOD Touch and it has been loads of fun loading stuff onto it (took me four hours last night to get my music from one ipod to the other) and I have nearly got all the music ready to go plus some new stuff to listen to tomorrow.

Erin's roll

One project I have finished this holidays is the needleroll or lavender roll for my neice Erin. hopefully my brother will get it and be able to take it home with him on monday. I started this as my plane piece on our trip to USA last year and finished it this year with Erin's name on it.

Projects started (and hopefully finished) is the porject bag using my sudoku piece. I went to Maree's today and she stitched (I was gofer) and it was halfway there. Then late afternoon I went to marilyns and we started on a table runner for a christmas gift for our cousin. I have quilted half of it so can complete it tomorrow night when I go to feed the cat and then start one for my friend for christmas. Tomorrow morning I am going to start Marilyn's knitting bag and if it is fine weed some more of the garden.
I have finally got the stones ordered for the pebble garden and I was hoping that they would arrive before the weekend it is fine that they will be here next week and I can get to it each night.
I will report on more of my holiday break in the next post (possilby with more pictures of completed works)
Diane

Chocolate Buffet and Rugby

2011-09-30T00:55:00.002+01:00

One plateful of yummy chocolate goodies. the raspberry mousse was kate's favourite.

I went to Wellington with Suzie and Kate last weekend for the chocolate buffet at the Amora Hotel. It was yummy but the pina colada white chocolate mousse finished me off and I could not eat any more. Did not even try everything but the things I tried were delicious. The nicest was the chocolate and Guinness mousse plus I really enjoyed the hot chilli chocolate drink. The white chocolate drink was not so nice.

Even the decorations were made out of chocolate.

The high light when we were there was the Argentinian team came in from their training so Kate got a coupleof photos.

BUT - the bonus - we parked the car at the Intercontinental and who was there but the Australian Rugby team so we had a photo with some of the players. Kate got photos with Quayde Cooper which she was thrilled about.

more Christmas balls on the way

2011-09-21T02:29:00.000+01:00

I have been making more christmas balls. Currently I am doing a pattern from the Stitch magazine (2004) which is a petite ball and I call it a Christmas Orb as it reminds me of the Queen's Orb as part of the crown jewels.
Also over the next holiday break I will hopefully be writing some instructions for a netted and sequined ball so my ladies can make one for christmas. Currently i have made about five but i need to make it fit a bigger ball and use #11 seed beads so that is the next challenge. I make a ball and the next one I alter but for the class that cannot happen.

Also at the beginning of October I am going to be taking a canvas class for another guild and we will be making a book cover or needlebook. I have to dye some lace and do some pattern instructions plus I want to make up a kit of threads that they will be able to couch down etc.

This weekend I am off with a friend and her daughter to the Chocolate Buffet in Wellington. A whole night of chocolate and desserts, plus chocolate to drink and crepes as well as truffles. yummy.
Diane

more work done

2011-09-12T10:38:00.001+01:00

I have been a busy beaver and completed a tiny kit from School of Beadwork - Double Delish - onsie. It is lime and blue and very cute. I am attaching it to a key ring to give away as a christmas gift on my travels in December.
Maree and I went to St Mary's Cathedral in New Plymouth last night for the unveiling of the completed Peace Altar Frontal. We went one night to stitch as guild members so it was nice to be at the end to put another stitch in. Now the construction phase begins and in two months they will have the dedication ceremony. It was a nice service with reminders about Parihaka, Sept 11 2001 and the way of peace in the world.
Also made the new decoration in Bead and Button and now have put the magazine away carefully so cannot make another one. oh well I will find it.
Nearly completed the next month for my BJP so going to watch some tv and stitch some more on it.

A very busy time

2011-09-06T12:23:00.000+01:00

It has been nearly a month since I last wrote and things have been really busy.

My Soduku - very halloween ish.

I have finished Sudoku and here are the finished pieces from my Monday night ladies. This has been one of our most successful projects for a couple of years with five of us completing it within the same year we started. It is doing projects like this that I miss Liz and how much she would have enjoyed doing this work.

Judy's piece - same colours as Sue

Jills piece used the colours as stated in the pattern.

Mum used a monotone palete which looks great.

Sue used the same colours as judy but quite different results

Mum and I went to Dunedin to visit Alice and while there I completed a mill Hill Christmas kit plus finished the Mill Hill Scissor case 9without the long neck cord) as well as completed the outside row for my Lativan work. I have also started the May piece for BJP 4 and am back onto walk on the wild side with canvas #1 finished and number 2 underway. Mum has finished one and two so she is racing ahead of me.
My Colourific piece has been received and the exhibition opens at the end of this month in Arrowtown so it will interesting to see if Skadi comes home afterwards.

Sudoku Finished

2011-08-12T13:20:00.000+01:00

Yeah
I have finished stitching Sudoku. Mum finished hers and the rest of the class have also finished this piece. I loved doing it. it is from the ANG magazine Needlepointers and designed by a lady we met last year at Columbus "Marilyn Owen". A great project. now to finish stitching on colorific and then onto walk on the wild side.
I will also have time to make up my book cover that I stithced very quickly using cornpad embroidery. I will also endeavour to get another ATC card done so I can send one off to Karen who I am sure is waiting for one to swap.
It is supposed to snow again this weekend although I don't think we will get any but you never know - weather forecast is snow to low levels on the eastern shores of new zealand and we are in the west but not much land between us and the Antarctic.
Diane

Colourific piece coming along

2011-08-03T13:35:00.000+01:00

Just a quick catch up note. My colourific piece is coming along. I have added an extra bottom to make it more stable and then it should display better. I have stitched, stiffened and beaded more pieces and started sewing them onto the body. the face is attached and needs the icicle fringe now.
Still to decide on a final name but "Skadi" is looking like it at the moment.

Snow Day

2011-07-24T23:23:00.001+01:00

The most amazing morning today. the whole country is in the grip of the weather and this is what has happened overnight in Stratford. I can only remember about half this amount when I was about 14 years old. Marilyn (2kms away) has no power and about half as much snow as this. Alice in Dunedin evidently has had quite a lot and it was -6 degrees Celsius today in Dunedin. Our temperature is about 6 - 7 deg Celsius.
Oh what fun and I am pleased no school today.
Diane
No longer the "land of the long white cloud" - now "the land of the long white snow" - New Zealand.

The front garden - note my cute sculpture that I have.

Down the street. Most amazing

The view when I opened the curtains this morning.

Towards the mountain which is only 10 Km away

Across the road from my house.

Embroidery / Holiday plan notes:
Lots of inspiration in the winter snow for July BJP.
Colourific is being assembled with the face applied now and only a bit of painting to be done.
Cornpad notebook cover is being snail trail stitched all over and it certainly makes it come together.
Tarte Tartin was made yesterday and I was mildly pleased. Will have to try again to make it better. The caramelizing did not happen well.
Diane

Holiday catch ups

2011-07-23T01:59:00.000+01:00

Adding the beaded face.

It is time for the end of the school term and holiday time. I have six days off this time and busy completing my entry into the national exhibition. I am busy getting all the elements stitched and added onto the base goddess. Hopefully I will be completed by next thursday when I go back to work. Soduku has been getting a couple of squares stitched each day so I have finished 5 sets and onto the 6th set of nine stitches.

Also I have been completing a few other jobs over the past weeks. I made 4 baby bibs (with one to complete) so that is a job of the list. I have my notebook to make for our trip away - we have tickets to the ice hockey in New York but no trip up to the crown of the Statue of Liberty.
I have my cake mixer fixed (not doing to badly for something that is 30 years old) and purchased a pizza stone so that is the next cooking element. This afternoon I am going to try out the Tarte Tartin recipe from Masterchef as I have a suitable dish now.

On the book front I have been listening to the new audio books from the public library. They come on a little MP3 player and really great to use. Have another which is on CD's so that will take a couple of days to listen to but makes the beading and hand stitching go faster.

The bike riding has started and I am off this afternoon for a 20 minute ride around town while I get my confidence back. Hopefully I will be able to keep it up. Certainly I am more confident in changing gears and using the hand brakes. The weather is not very conducive to riding bikes but it will improve as we move nearer to spring and summer.

Busy working

2011-06-16T09:18:00.000+01:00

Karen, Mum, Phil and dad outside the Whangamata residence.

It has been a busy couple of weeks once again. We went away for the long weekend and I did a bit of stitching on Sudoku so that was pleasing. Since then I have finished two of the 9 squares, most of the dividing lines and started on another set of nine squares.

Also been doing a bit more on my exhibition piece so that is pleasing to see. The class for the beaded decoration went well and I have seen a number of completed ones and they all look great. I have been looking at ideas for new ones and think I will have another go at working out the instructions when the holidays come along.

Been away to Wanganui to the sit and stitch day which was lots of fun and I was really good about not buying new silk threads. Off to the weekend workshop on Saturday for our guild – we are doing coloured corn pad embroidery. Then I am off to the beach with the institute ladies.

Went to see Thor at the movies in Stratford. Really enjoyed it and would definitely see it again. Hoping to go to a few more movies over the next month at the TET Kings Theatre.

Swap Bot has been fun and I have received a couple of lovely things, tea to try and christmas decorations. I sent the christmas wreath pictured above.

Busy working

2011-05-26T07:31:00.000+01:00

A busy fortnight has seen me make a number of coffee cup holders for small coffee cups but I am going to make some larger ones now. They have been really fun and I sold about ten of them so was pleased with the effort. I have made a number to give away as presents for Xmas so that is a start.

The next exciting thing that has happened has been my attendance at a creative stitchers play weekend. Jo and Anne from Creative Craft Supplies came and showed us how to use lots of their products; rubbing plates, polysol dyes, shiva stiks, xpandapaint as well as using some new materials polysuede and evalon. It was loads of fun and I have painted lots of paper with colour to start making some little goddess dollies. Think that they will look really cute and hoping to spend next holidays on making them.

Also I have started the ANG needlepointers piece of work “Sudoku” by Marilyn Owen. We met Marilyn at the seminar in Ohio and I am looking forward to doing this with the class. The class members have chosen the colours that Marilyn used (or slight adjustment) but mum and I are stitching differently. Mum is doing hers all in greys and I am using orange and black so it looks quite vibrant.

Went to see “Mozart’s Sister” last night at the Kings Theatre in Stratford and it was really great. Lovely costumes, sets and even the inside of Versailles I am sure.

Diane

March BJP is finished

2011-05-08T10:30:00.000+01:00

March BJP Finished

I have finished March BJP - Jealously - eye word of the month. Green eyes with jealous, envy looks. The background fabric has dried leaves incorporated.
Busy weekend with Mothers Day so lunch out with mum and dad and then to my sister's for dinner. We spoke to the neice and nephew so that was great.
I have made a dozen coffee cup holders for presents but a friend wants to buy some so have made them earlier than for christmas presents.
Finished another square on canvas 1 of walk on the wild side, so only one square to complete and that will be one canvas done. I am thrilled with getting some stitching time this weekend and have more planned out for the week.
Plug for a great movie - went to the preview of Water for Elephants and this is as good as the book. I loved both.
Keep safe and bless someone this week.
Diane

BJP For March nearly there

2011-05-06T05:27:00.000+01:00

March BJP Nearly there

Guild Biscornu project - three members completed.

The royal wedding dinner

We had cake as well.

Biscornu Finished; BJP 2011

2011-04-24T02:03:00.001+01:00

Had an interesting week and finished another item. So pleased with myself as this is a 2011 guild project – started and finished in the one year. It is a 15 sided biscornu from the Stitch magazine from the Embroiderer’s Guild of England. I used a rainbow gallery encore thread in the greens and added a green marlitt, bright yellow perle 5 with a second variegated perle 5 in pale yellow plus the lime green thread was a rayon from Jane Van Keulen (a thread dyer form New Zealand). - Photo will come next time.

February 2011 BJP

February 2011 BJG - Red Eyes

Another ATC finished for the 2011 BJP so this is continuing the theme of eyes - “Red Eyes”. The word added to this one is precious. Lots of thoughts went through my head about this one and how precious our eyes are. Along with the thinking that eyes are precious the title of this piece was “Red Eyes”. Red eyes are eyes that are sore and inflamed hence the very redness of this piece. Precious comes from the fact that eyes that are often inflamed, sore and diseased may lead to blindness and the world of darkness, hence the precious sight is gone. A little bit of darkness in the centre of one eye shows that blindness is creeping.

Red eye also the late night flight into this modern age, a movie from 2005, the effect in photographs when using a flash and lots of eye disease.

Other finished items:

Also finished this month is Stephanie's birthday present - the three knitted coathangers. Lots of fun to knit and gives me something to do at morning tea time. I enjoyed these as all three are different.

The next thing to show are the two birds I sent for my swap with Carol in Tasmania. I am hoping that she should have received them by now so here they are. One of her favourite colours is purple so I did a purple one for her and realised (a week later) after I had sent them that I did not date and initial them. My apologies Carol for this oversight.

Birds sent to Carol in Tassie for the Swap - Bird for my christmas tree.

Also just done today is the most gorgeous phone charm from Maree for my birthday. A little lion face peers out from my phone now.

Latest stitching

2011-04-19T03:42:00.000+01:00

I have had the weekend in bed with a dreadful cold. Started on Friday with a sore throat, saturday I had the rudolph nose and sunday the achy joints etc. Monday I spent most of in bed so not much stitching done.
Friday night I finished another part of Stephanie's birthday present and I will post the pictures next week after she recieves it at Easter.
Saturday was a busy day - I did a bit more on my Latvian mat as I had to spend 2 1/2 hours at the hairdressers on Saturday morning so I was pleased with that time being useful. Saturday afternoon I spent with Maree sorting out colours for Soduku and Crystal Waters.
Saturday night I was determined to sew up my biscornu and made great strides. Unfortunately sunday when I looked at it I did not have the pattern right and some of the squares would have matched. Backwards stitching and restitching later I am onto the last five squares and will be able to stuff it this week.
Sunday I also did some work on my colourific piece as well as starting to write my story about my goddess. I hope she turns out okay. I could not find the bead pieces that I have made but they will be somewhere and I do have more to make. I also completed the February BJP peice except for the hand stitching and applying the back (still undecided as I think I will put them into my book).
I also sent of three swaps for swap-bot - two tea swaps and one christmas decoration so I am excited to recieve parcels. I received one today from Europe and it is full of lovely teas that Suzie and I want to try.
Keep stitching everyone.

Busy Stitching week

2011-04-13T02:58:00.001+01:00

Busy ten days.
We have had our Latvian class with 21 attending the two classes and lots of progress made by various stitchers. Lots of colour choices as well with some changing colours halfway through (Lee). I have only stitched in class and pleased with my progress and colours chosen by Maree as an accident selection.
          I have all but finished the stitching on my canvas biscornu and will sew it up over the weekend. I am very pleased with it despite having problems following the pattern and colours. Should have had four threads and I used five or six. Should have had five patterns with three of each stitched the same to make the 15 sides but I managed to only do two the same of each pattern and then add in my own stitches. I think this comes from having too many favourite stitches. Ann (tutor from weekend) showed us her little blackwork biscornu with 15 different patterns stitched on it. I may have to do something like that with my Florence fabric and a silk thread.
          I have started doing a couple of swaps with swap-BoT.com and sent my postcard off on Monday. This week I have two more to send off – need to put eyes on a Christmas decoration before I can put it in the post on Friday so that is tonight’s task. After that it will be to start the decoration for next months swap. Think I will be in advance of this one as I have my idea and want to get it made.
          The holidays are looking to be busier than ever and hoping to have a few days at the beach with mum at some stage so that will be lots of stitching time on walk on the wild side.

Ann showing the weekday class some of her finishing and other designs.

My colours. I have nearly completed one half of the holbein stitching.

As far as beading goes I have completed febraury BJP (no photo taken yet) and it seems like the ATC size is the go for this year. I am trying to complete a couple of some of them so I can send them to Karen Cohen for the ATC swap so holidays will mean that another couple will be completed and can be posted off to her. I have the May page for 2010 to do and I am thinking about whether to continue with that series as I enjoyed the process from each person but it was really hard to get inside their heads.

Stitching taking place

2011-04-05T10:25:00.001+01:00

Tabitha's pocket in one of her incarnations.

It has been a busy couple of weeks with stitching taking place on a number of things. I have been putting more stuff onto my Tabitha’s pocket – more needed according to the tutor.

I have also completed the pre-stitching for the Latvian class for next week and chosen some colours. I hope that they look good and I will take a photo of the class next week.

Also I attended our regional embroidery retreat and make a book using paper. It was really loads of fun and quick to do with lots of exciting things being done. I had a blast and think I may make a few more at some stage (great idea to use up old visoflix which is not working too great).
Also stitched a little more on my BJP but not certain if the February one is finished yet.
My Biscornu has three squares to go so wanting to get that done before our meeting on April 19th so I can sew it together at the meeting. It is looking good and I am pleased that I have done it. I will have to look into another way of displaying my pincushions as getting too many for the basket now.

Update on Stitching

2011-03-22T03:04:00.000Z

It seems like a long time since I wrote anything and I feel as if no-one is watching. At night class we are doing a short class with Lee (www.notesfromunderthemountain.blogspot.com) and making her pocket for Titania. It was loads of fun last night and we have another night in two weeks so I will try and remember to take a photo of us all.

My pocket is for Tabitha as shown in the photo below. I have also been busy completing stitching for the Woman’s Institute Arts Festival - great expectations as mum keeps telling everybody about my work and I have finished several items, cushion, craft bag, knitting needle holder, one button bracelet with another on the way and two brooches.

I would like to get a prize but I am competing with lots of experienced ladies so fingers crossed. Tonight I will finish the button bracelet and then label everything so I can take it to mum’s tomorrow as the festival is on Thursday.

Beaded Journal Project
I am hoping to get another month done after this week. I have started the backgrounds for two more ATC's so one is done and I will photograph it to put onto here later this week.
This year I have been making ATC's which will go into the book I am now keeping. I decided I liked the size of that and inspiration for me will be words, poetry, songs that mean something to me at the time.

Another month

2011-02-07T09:05:00.000Z

January 29th

March 2010 BJP "Snake eyed floozy" - line from Capricorn Sister by Mother Love Bone

Another month has nearly finished and I have completed the third page of my 2010 BJP. This one is attributed to Maree, a friend who has widened my music taste so it now includes things like malfunkshun, kings of leon and nine inch nails. This piece is from Mother Love Bone, song: Capricorn Sister and the line reads “Snake eyed floozy”.

I have printed a picture of Mary (Madonna or Magdalene) and then an eye. Maree is a fan of eqyptian gods and the eye I have turned into a snake with the addition of beads in a snake shape. Mary Magdalene is regarded as the world’s most famous fallen woman but is also a Madonna figure of the power of redemption. I found this piece quite a challenge as my initial piece had a snake bead on it but it would not sit right and I could not bead around it. I have shown it to Maree and she really liked it so that was great.

Starting on the 2011 BJP and I am choosing to do the ATC card size so I can do a swap with Karen (Florida). I have made the backgrounds for January and thoughts to go with it will come on the next posting. I will be using words that mean something to me each month but may also use quotes from other. I am hoping to get my computer sorted as i cannot always download pictures and can never get anything that needs an adobe product.

I have been keeping in touch with the BJP'ers and found this via bloghopping on Sue's Craft Cupboard. http://tammysprinkle.blogspot.com/ has a Pay It Forward activity. The idea is to promise something handmade to the FIRST 5 people who leave a comment here. To be eligible, you too must repost this offering something handmade by you to 5 other people. The rules are that it must be handmade by you and it must be sent to your 5 people some time in 2011.
So - I promise to send the first five people leaving a comment here, a hand-made-by-me gift - soon, but remember you have to do it too. It sounded like a fun thing to do and as I love "snail mail" and "surprises" - and the film "Pay it Forward" - I'm following Tammy's idea too.

A Busy day

2011-01-21T07:58:00.000Z

I have had a really busy day today with starting to make icicles for my winter goddess, complete the background for an ATC and a beaded journal page. also I have spent 15 minutes at a time cleaning up my ipod and deleted over 500 duplicate songs and spent all day listening to the Kings of Leon. Think they will be my band of choice at the moment.
Also spent 15 minutes at a time cleaning up my desk area and have nearly taken every thing off it to dust off the dust bunnies (the power of 15 minutes at a time - http://www.flylady.net/)
Also I have spent time tidying up all my photos from seven years so they are all stored onto a remote hard disk and then hopefully I will be able to get my computer fixed or sorted as I am not able to do anything with adobe files, quicktime or flashplayer so I cannot download any e-books onto my e-reader.
two more days and work starts again so going to spend several hours beading and stitching now and then to bed. Shopping tomorrow for new clothes (since I have a stylist I have discovered a love of nice clothes) and then gardening and house cleaning weather permitting.
Enjoy the weekend.

Days at the beach

2011-01-19T07:08:00.003Z

Mum and I have had days at the beach so that was great. We have done quite a bit of stitching on the light canvas of our ohio project "Walk on the Wild Side". I have completed six sections on this piece and am hoping over the next couple of weeks to get a flicker photo organised.

This is mum getting ready to start and the view from the cabin that we had each day. It was wonderful.

my section two nearly done. I cannot decide what to do in the gap whether to repeat the colour or to change it to the metallic thread. I will decide before I have to take it off the bars, I promise.

My progress to date. I have not quite completed the bargello stitching but I have made a start on the bottom three sections.

Good news

2010-12-22T07:49:00.002Z

Just heard from my niece, Alice and she has got into medical school in Dunedin. This is the start of her dream. She has wanted to be a paediatric surgeon since she was in primary school. I am really pleased for her.

Merry Christmas to all

2010-12-20T07:18:00.003Z

Just a few days before Christmas and the weather has really deteriorated. It has been wet for several days so the farmers are celebrating as the drought season has been delayed for at least a while. It has been colder as well so time to catch up with all the watching on the tv and am nearly up to date with a number of programmes.

School has basically finished for me with just a few more things to do and then I am off until at least ten days before school starts. Hoping to get some time at the beach with mum and a few days away with Stephanie to Wellington. We are going to the European Masters exhibition at Te Papa so that will be neat. Not certain what else we shall do.

Christmas wishes to all friends that read this blog. I have had a wonderful 2010 although not all things have been completed. Heart of the cabin has stalled due to our travel to san Francisco and attendance at seminar. I have completed one piece from seminar and have most of my pages ready for my notebook but nothing to put it into yet. Linda’s piece walk on the wild side is still just sitting and am hoping to do some over the holidays to get at least the first canvas finished.

Beaded journal project was not a big success this year as I only completed three months with another three designed and not stitched. On the beading plus side I did complete three of Laura McCabe’s kits that I bought. I also designed three new decorations (Neptune’s series) and taught them. This last three months I have done another Christmas ball which my group of ladies did one night. This last weekend I have borrowed a couple from a friend of mum’s and am hoping to make them and then also make the patterns for them. I have made 12 of these decorations for gifts so that was a busy time. See them in previous posts.
This year I made my first ATC and did a swap. It was fun. As well I swapped a biscornu on the swap-bot network as well as a couple of other swaps.
A challenge has been presented to me for next year with the invitation to enter an ANZEG exhibition in October. I have a number of thoughts and this holidays will find me starting on at least one of them.
So to all friends I hope that you all have a wonderful season and that the weather good and bad does not deter your festive times.
Diane

More balls made this week.

2010-12-14T09:32:00.004Z

This is the collection of balls that I have made for christmas gifts this year. It is a netted pattern with a loop fringe using some glass chips on the loops. Really fun to make.

These two I have completed this week. the silver and blue ball uses a variation of my neptunes wave ball that I taught and designed earlier this year. It was fun adapting it to a smaller ball and using the loop fringe.

School is over and all the students have left. Only the tidying up to do and cleaning out my office ready to start next year again. Training tomorrow on the new absence programme and then some work to do on documentation for next year so that the week before school starts won't be so pressured. Then off to the beach, christmas at mums and trip to wellington with best friend Stephanie.

christmas balls

2010-11-21T08:34:00.003Z

I have been focused on making christmas balls and here are the latest two. I made the green one for our embroidery guild party gift. The orange one is for my brother in honour of the SF Giants world series win.

March is finished.

2010-09-10T05:30:00.002+01:00

PARIS - the most wonderful musical with great tunes. By an amazing Australian artist - Jon English.

I am really pleased that I have finished this piece. It was a real struggle trying to interpret my vision for the music into beads and stitch. The background is coloured with watercolour pencils and ironed to fix. I then applied a piece of chiffon which I then ruched onto the background fabric. Because I tried to leave the stitching area not ruched it was not even but it does show the movement I wanted as like marble.

I used a different bead for each section of the letter to symbolise the various parts of the Paris story. I was pleased that the coin worked well and looks vaguely like a roman helmet which was my aim.

now onto the next one - Maree - very alternative and wonderful music tastes so this next piece should be fun.

What I have been doing?

2010-08-29T00:29:00.005+01:00

I have done of two of the three canvas's for seminar. The pictures are not great but I am quite pleased with how it has gone. The third canvas is on the frame ready to start this evening.

I have continued stitching on the BJP for March. I found a coin from Brazil which had a face that was good but slightly bigger than i wanted so it appears slightly large. I tried to use a brick stitch for the bezel which was not too bad but a bit uneven. I am filling in around with little picots using the delica and #15 beads. I will keep going with this today as the weather is really shocking and quite cold so I can sit in front of the TV and catch up with viewing.
Also since the last posting I have completed two more christmas decorations for sale so hoping that I will be able to do a couple more in the next week.
I am going to see Shrek 4 this afternoon with friends as a relief from being inside as well I watched the Rocky Horror Picture Show with friends who had never seen it. It was a great couple of hours and fun to see it again.
Diane

Another Square done

2010-08-09T12:23:00.003+01:00

What a great weekend. Saturday was wet and horrible so a perfect day to stitch on Heart of a Cabin. Finished two logs so really pleased and also started on the third of my beaded journal pieces for this year. Here is the finished square for HOTC and the sixth one I have done. Had a letter from L Reinmiller to say that we should get our canvas this week so this will be all that will be done on this piece for the next few months as I need the stretcher bars.

The third BJP for me this year is my friend Kim from Melbourne, Australia. She introduced me to a wonderful piece of music in about 1992 – a musical written by Jon English called Paris. It is the story of Greeks and Trojans with the horse and Helen playing wonderful roles. I have not seen it performed but have seen several clips on YouTube of the various performances in Australia. The music is wonderful and this piece symbolises the longevity of the story – I have tried to get a stone like look in the letters but the warmth of the wooden horse. I have taken a small snap of the semi stitched piece so you can see it.

Sunday was also spent stitching with friends from the embroidery guild on our christmas raffle. We are stitching an advent calendar so it was making the 24 toys to hang on the calendar then our next meeting will have some of the last bits to do and Maree will have all the putting together. It will look fabulous I am sure and I will be making a couple of new toys to hang on my advent calendar. Currently I have a selection of about 30 to choose from so that is really neat.

Progress

2010-08-03T10:30:00.004+01:00

Had a lazy weekend but still busy. Creative Stitchers met on Saturday and it was interesting to see the different classes from conferenc. The remainder of the weekend has seen progress on Heart of the Cabin. Finished one square and started the next which is now halfway there. I am pleased with myself and hoping to finish this one before our canvases arrive for seminar. I am still enjoying this project and I realise that it will be a long term project but that is fine. When the canvases arrive I will have to change projects as I need the stretcher bars.
Got the list for my class with Beth Robertson and Suzanne Howren. It looks to be like lots of fun but concentrated time. I will have to do some of the preparation when we get to San Francisco as I am not able to buy the canvas here in NZ. Still it is not too much to get prepared.
Here also is a photo of the latest purchase – Geraldine has been around now for five weeks and is wonderful to drive. She has been named after one of the muppets from Fraggle Rock – definitely a girl car so could not be called Kermit (name suggested by friends at school). Mum and I took her to Hamilton recently and it was a great ride so really pleased with the purchase.

BJP progress is slow but moving. I have now got a letter to trace for the next one and will look at choosing beads over the next couple of days. This one will be mostly browns and I have some glass chips which I think might work. It was a challenge to trace my pattern but hoping that it will look great when stitched together.

latest work

2010-07-25T05:42:00.007+01:00

Decided that I needed to complete another square for Heart of the Cabin. Here it is nearly finished so that is a great event. 5/16 ths of this piece done. I really struggled with the shading as I found that six strands were too many so had to use four so the shading is a bit shorter.

This weekend has been busy with fighting off a cold and having too much to do at school to have the time off. After Tuesday I can relax a little bit when things will settle down.

Friday night Marilyn asked me to bake for a cake stall to assist Nathan – pharmacist at her work who will be attending the paraplegic world cycling champs in September. I made my best cakes and they were a failure so Saturday morning I made two others. The new recipe this month is butterfly cakes from Healthy Food Guide and also remade the mocha nut butterball cookies. I found this on the internet and they are great. Both worked well so that is two more recipes for my challenge. A recipe a month this year.

Here are the two pieces that I did finish over the holidays. They are from conference 2008 - Allie Snow class of textile art. Really enjoyed this and think this is what encouraged me to start with the BJP. These are my first two flower princesses. I have one more started and would like to perhaps make more for display in the next Art Society Exhibition.

Another Kit done

2010-07-15T10:01:00.001+01:00

I see that I have this picture on twice but I am very excited by it. Now what to do with it - it is very heavy - too heavy for scissors and not certain how to attach it to my new bag for school but i will think on it.
looking forward to starting the next laura kit - think I will do the scissor case

Holidays are busy!

2010-07-15T09:44:00.004+01:00

We are in the midst of our winter holiday so the weather started off not great but for the last week it has been fine days and minus temperatures overnight. Still a good excuse to sit in the conservatory and stitch.

Last weekend mum and I travelled to Hamilton to see the exhibitions for the ANZEG biannual conference. I was slightly disappointed in the number of entries particularly in the miniatures and members and hoped that many entries were not judged out of the competition. The variety of work in the junior members exhibition was phenomenal and I was really excited by our junior tutors news that next year our group may be moving into town and that will give me an opportunity once a month to share with them.

I purchased a couple of books – one on inchies and making backgrounds so I am inspired to rejoin swap-bot and see what’s going on. The other was the new one from Effie Mitrofanis, an Australian embroiderer, who I think has a wonderful way of combining colour, techniques and textiles to produce some exciting work.

I have also finished another cell phone dangle for my sister for Christmas and this made me finish the cube that I had nearly done. This was another kit by Laura McCabe and I have to say that they are the most delightful kits with plenty of seed beads so you can be a bit picky with them if you want.

the laura mccabe cube that i have finished. as usual I had to change something - the crystals in the corner - i did not like the colour of the ones provided so I used some of my own and will use the others in another piece.

March month is coming along for beaded journal project so this year has not been so successful with completing pieces but I have April’s mapped out in my book so that is good and I have mounted one piece already although I have to put a few more beads on the January piece to make it fit into the page opening.

School has been busy with things going on and I think there will be job changes for all in the offices at the moment so that will be an exciting time ahead. I have also been doing the advert so hopefully tomorrow I will have the last advertiser on board and that will be a great thing. This will be the first year that the cost to the school is less than half so that is good news. Jessica from our local paper is lovely to work with and she has lots of great ideas for layouts, etc which are exciting.

more time is passing and I don't know where it is going.

2010-06-30T03:43:00.002+01:00

Another fortnight has gone by and not much has been done. I have completed the cell phone fob kit for my mum for her birthday (done while in Auckland, where she was having her eyes operated on). Also I have been stitching some more on my Wessex Sampler as this has been easy to take away to several different functions, Opunake Mid-Winter Christmas (see photo below of the Christmas Fairy) and Wanganui sit and stitch. Also while waiting in the eye hospital I managed to stitch another saying. It is nearly finished and I am aiming to get it done this year.
Also this weekend I spent working on a knitting / sewing bag for mum. I made it from the scraps of a quilt that my sister made and fortunately there were enough bits. I have an extra piece which I am looking at making into a book cover for her. I have just the bias binding to sew around to cover all the seams and then sew on a couple of charms and get some handles and it is done. I will then make one for Marilyn but it will have to wait until she has more scraps.

Finished work

2010-06-10T04:01:00.003+01:00

Yeah! better late than never. I have finished the February page for my BJP (still to mount it in the book) and also finished Stephanie's present and given it to her. I will photo the BJP piece and post it later tonight or tomorrow (the zumba class and making cookies for morning tea tomorrow are tonight's treats).

front of Stephanie's needlebook - the printed image reminded me of Jane Austen (one of our shared favourite reads of all time).

The back of the needlebook. labelled and dated I was impressed with myself and also using the #15 beads to cover the tassel bead.

Both sides now! She was thrilled with it on Monday when I delivered it to her.

Nearly finished

2010-06-04T05:11:00.000+01:00

top corner of the front of the needlebook. This piece of lace was my colour inspiration along with the picture.

The back - colours are not as purple but more brownish. I really loved working with the different stitches.

I am very excited as I have nearly finished Stephanie's needlebook. I have loved doing this piece and hope that she gets many years of use from it. The inside pages are a fawn woollen material that I have buttonhole stitched and also used for the lining.

Month 2 of the 2010BJP will also be posted at the weekend after I photograph it and then onto month 3.

Beading and other things

2010-05-26T05:23:00.001+01:00

It has been a couple of weeks since I wrote anything and I have completed a decoration for a class. It is called sparkling ruffles and we had to amend the pattern quite a bit to make it fit our balls. I had three ladies do it at the weekend and they all enjoyed it immensely as this is the first netting stitch that they have done. I was most impressed with them all.
I have finished the stitching on Stephanie’s birthday present so now it is embellishment time and then to the making up stage. It has turned out much better than I thought and I have used quite different colours. The inside will be a wool material as this is great for parking needles. Hopefully this weekend will see that project on the completion table as Stephanie is coming home the following weekend for the long weekend.

Heart of the cabin has stalled but I can report that mum is continuing on hers and has completed square three so is onto her sixth square. I will get the needle book out of the way and then hopefully some stitched this weekend as the weather looks like being not great again.
Beaded Journal project – February is coming along and I have to visit Maree to get the next part drawn on. It should also be finished over the next weeks and then only three months behind. I think I will do something less esoteric for the next month.

Diane

A Long week

2010-05-14T05:26:00.000+01:00

It has been a long week and it feels like there have been three Wednesdays, two Thursdays and not enough Friday already. I have stitched this week mostly on my friend Stephanie’s needle book cover so it is nearly finished. Just the last area to stitch and then to embellish and make up. I think I will hand stitch it together using some ultra suede for the inside in a pale green colour or else beige felt.

Mum and I have received notice that we have our classes for Columbus in September so that is exciting and I am looking forward to receiving the needs list or the stitching supplies. There is some pre stitching for both pieces I think.
http://www.needlepoint.org/Seminar-10/classes/4day/40223.php this is the four day class which mum and I are both doing so I am very excited.

Beaded journal project is going very slowly with February about half done and march thought about but nothing in print yet. I am hoping to get to some of that this weekend and also to spend time trying to make up bead kits for a class next week. Think I need a four day weekend.

Guild meeting was this week so I think that threw me out of sync. We had the national president with us for the night Margaret Erskine so that was really nice and no-one took a picture. We are having a workshop next weekend at my place as well.
Diane

Christmas decorations abound

2010-04-27T05:15:00.004+01:00

A really short post this week as not much exciting but photos of all the christmas decorations that we have made over april. I also have made one for a friend who is having a birthday this week and one for a member of our staff who is leaving.

mums trial using an opaque green pearl bead.

Honeycomb variation #1
Honeycomb variation #2 I loved this one better but my class ladies prefer the first version.
My trial with traditional red and green.

The holidays are over!!

2010-04-18T09:59:00.003+01:00

The holidays are finished and its back to school tomorrow. Mum and I had four/five days at the beach and we made four beaded decorations from some of our books. I also managed to complete another block for heart of the Cabin.
I spent one day last week making a bag with my friend Sonia and have half made another one for mum for her birthday. I will make another one later in the year for my sister Marilyn, once she has finished her quilt and I can have the scraps.
School was busy over the holidays with a reunion of ex-pupils, and the school rugby team playing against three other schools in a tournament as well as a visiting team. It was great to see the students in our hall and nice to see the finals played in good weather.
We had some warm days and then have had a couple of light falls of snow on the mountain but it has not stayed. The weather has been really great for the holiday breaks but look wet for this week.
Had a great morning today as was on Skype with friends from England who were in Rotoract with me in the 80's. it was really neat to see them all as I havent seen most of them for at least 15 years.

Month 2 started.

2010-04-05T10:29:00.003+01:00

Month 2 -February - David was 17 and one of his favourite bands is Bullets from my Valentine. I have taken the really neat V and stitching this piece. He is away on outward bound camp at the moment for three weeks so hoping to get it finished before he returns.

I am currently using silver galvanised delicas to outline the v and then will picot an edge and other things. I am sorry that the picture is sideways at the moment but the next will be better.

Diane

another square half done

2010-03-28T10:08:00.004+01:00

Heart of the cabin
another sqaure is done and block 6 is half done. I have completed the fourth log this week and with easter on the horizon am hoping to complete the block and also block 3 this weekend.

here is the half of block 6. the rust colours look really great so I am pleased and we are using threads as we go as do not have all the recommended threads. Some are difficult to get here so we are substituting mostly for silks etc.

I went to our regional embroidery retreat last weekend and this was a piece of completed work that caught my eye. i love the free ness of it and also the colours. perhaps i can complete it in beads. the big circle in the centre is a covered marmite lid so about 2 1/2 inchies across. quite a large piece

these are the cards we made at the weekend. Mine is not that flash but this one i really loved for its simplicity.

another square completed

2010-03-14T08:59:00.005Z

This week has been a very busy week with my goddaughters 21st birthday last weekend and a public holiday. On tuesday we had the announcement of our new principal, http://www.shsinfo-centa.blogspot.com/ so that was very exciting and took up a lot of my time.

I have completed another square on heart of the cabin. That makes three complete and two started. only 13 to go. I am really pleased with this one as it has been a real struggle to get the right kind of threads - we have made lots of substitutions but that is okay we are still getting the colour values right. Mum has completed nearly four squares so she is ahead of me.

I have half done the first month for BJP and will take a picture to post later. It looks good but very simple.

Life has been really busy with most of this weekend I was at WOMAD and it was great fun, i have 3 great cd's of music to listen to now - jazz, irish and arabic. wonderful mix of things although I only went to two of the three days as I have too much to do at home.
diane

concert was great - bjp started.

2010-03-01T19:50:00.004Z

The concert on Saturday was great and we had really excellent seats - 6 rows from the front.

I spent sunday afternoon with Maree getting the BJP underway and the first two months are started. Bead selection for January is going on at the moment and I think it will be a very mono bead palette I only have a couple in the right colour.
Night class last night we made our beaded dream catchers and they look spectacular except I could not find the bangles for them to go on. Still we have stitched the start of them and we will be able to complete another one at our next meeting.
I have nearly finished block 3 of heart of the cabin so I will post a picture this weekend I hope.
Diane

Biscornu done and posted and no photo

2010-02-22T08:34:00.002Z

i have posted my biscornu to Doreen in Canada today and forgot to photograph it so I am hoping she will send me a photo when she gets it.
I have finished another beaded christmas cracker and also a chicken humbug but no BJP stitching yet as I am trying to get Heart of a Cabin done.
busy week this week with a meeting on every night until friday and then saturday night we are going to see Sir Cliff Richard at the Bowl of Brooklands - most awesome outdoor concert venue in the World.
Sunday I was teaching a beaded dream catcher class but not enough have signed up so it will be cancelled and my night class members will do it on monday nights. that is great as sunday i can spend the day getting the kits made up.

Biscornu nearly done!

2010-02-15T02:04:00.004Z

On swap-bot this month I signed up for a swap with a red biscornu. I stitched a lovely little one using aida and a varigated thread then had an accident with dye so I space dyed the fabric and restitched part of it. I have sewn it up now so it needs its corner decorations and then to be posted. yeah for me getting it done before the deadline of 27 feb. I will post a photo after that as I am pleased with it.
Watching the winter olympics has been a popular pasttime over the weekend so the stitching did not get done but nearly finished another log on block 5 of heart of the cabin.

On a more exciting note mum and I have chosen our classes for Colombus and in two weeks we will be able to book them and hopefully get our choices. I had three classes that I wanted to do on a more teachers side of things but two of them were on the same two days. I have decided to do a four day class with mum and then we are both having a day off and a two day class - different for each of us. It will be exciting to do this.

BJP is very slow and this week is the starting week I think so get a move on is my instruction to self. Hoping to have finished January by the weekend.

February starts with excitment

2010-02-07T06:24:00.003Z

Excitement this month.

Karen getting ready to ride off from Stratford on the next leg of the cycle race.

The last weekend of January saw mum, dad and I meeting Karen and Phil as they were doing the round the mountain cycle race. I then went up to New Plymouth to have dinner and drinks with them. Managed to see more cousins, Graeme and also Mike Sandle (who had come to pick up Graeme). It was a really nice evening and got sprung by the Assistant Principal, drinking in the main street.

Sunday then saw mum and I off with Gemma and Denise to the final of the provincial 20/20 cricket match. We met Karen and Phil there so it was a battle of the provinces - Central District Stags (our team) vs. the Auckland Aces (boo). It was a very exciting first half with a good score posted by our boys and a number of sixes into the terraces at Pukekura Park. The weather was not the best but at least I think we have converted Gemma to cricket.

Susan and I in the Kitchen.

Sunday night I had visitors from Florida for two nights. Susan and Art Rochlin are visiting NZ and she found me on the beaded journal project. It was really exciting to meet someone who beads in a creative way. Susan and I spent Sunday night looking at all her pictures and then going through my room looking at my beaded pages, goddess dolls and various pieces of embroidery that I have around. It was loads of fun.
Monday night Susan cooked a wonderful meal for us and we invited my mum and dad as well. Dad and Art talked the night away and it was difficult to get them separated. The only unfortunate thing was that the mountain did not appear at all and the weather was not a treat for visitors. This week it has been much better.

The school week has been busy and lots of things happening and it looks as if our roll could be increased. The weekend has been busy – I have finished two books and done my design page for creative stitchers next weekend. Have to paint the backgrounds for the BJP then I can start.

activities this week.

2010-01-25T06:57:00.002Z

This week has been a bit difficult as I got to school on Monday to be told that a member of my night class had died. She had just over 12 months with cancer but finally went to peace on Sunday 17 Jan. her funeral on Thursday was very emotional affair with her family and a huge turnout.

Our embroidery this month is bargello and the workshop at my place was attended by a small but dedicated group. I completed the decoration below which uses the pine tree pattern. I have used a rainbow gallery rayon thread and carefully chosen the variation to give the illusion of the trees. Was most impresses and Mary showed me a new method of finishing which makes a nice decoration.

Heart of a cabin is coming along and I have found that some of the threads are too thick on the 22 count canvas so altering the threads to use #8 perle and less strands. Also because getting the anchor threads is sometimes difficult I have been substituting them slightly. Mum is further ahead with being on the 3rd block. I am hoping to finish block two this week and even get onto block three.

My embellished canvas piece is coming along but I have not really stitched any since I returned from Auckland. Having an internal debate about the colours so will see what happens to this. May remove some of the plain thread and use the variegated that I have self dyed some years ago.

School starts in earnest this week with two days of power cuts so that will be fun with all the reenrolments happening. Alice and David did okay but Alice was not pleased with her results overall. Used my slow cooker for the first time and it was okay. Was concerned all day about it being on but will get used to it I am sure.

Inspiration Sorted

2010-01-13T20:31:00.003Z

Just a short post today to say that I will be asking friends, colleagues and even acquaintances about their favourite song or words from a song to use as the inspiration for the pages this year. I have had a late start with being away and having visitors so have only emailed the first friend today.
I purchased a special visual diary which I am going to use to put all these pages in and so will be able to keep them together. Last year's journal pages will be mounted onto a wall hanging so needing to complete that as well. The size will be kept at 10 cm by 7.5 cm either portrait or landscape orientation depending on the theme of the piece.
Yesterday I walked to Onehunga and stopped at a patchwork shop. I purchased a book on maiking fabric backgrounds and embellishments so will use this to make some of the backgrounds for me to use.

First Thoughts for 2010 BJP

2010-01-06T08:44:00.003Z

I have finally decided. I will ask 12 different people if they can give me their favourite song, words, poem and use that as my inspiration for each page.
For January I will use my friend kim hopefully she will reply with her favourite and for February I have already got David's faves so the first two months are sorted.
Off to auckland and hoping to use this time for some design ideas so will take pens and pencil as well.
Size has been decided as 4inch by 3 inch as maximum and I am going to mount them in a book which I purchased earlier this week.

Decorations for Christmas

2010-01-04T09:35:00.005Z

Two aprons named for Aaron and Nadine's wedding on Saturday. I thought I was not going to get them in time but Marilyn had them. They are done and I can deliver them to her tomorrow so that is out of the way.

Finished three decorations for friends in Australia for xmas and sent them on their way today with Neil. He has departed for a few days in Christchurch and I will be off to Auckland for visits as well. The purple ball is my sample one so the girls from night class can see what I am doing.

christmas letter

2009-12-31T05:32:00.001Z

Dear all
The christmas letter follows. I will try to add the photos into an album so you will be able to see them. They will be on my facebook page for all to look at.
diane

Well the Christmas season is coming up fast and it seems not long ago that I was preparing to travel to Ewan’s for Christmas in 2008. We had a wonderful family holiday and it was unfortunate that Neil and family could not join us for the excitement of Ice Hockey games, winter lights and decorated houses, Marilyn learning to ski and watching the others go off every day. After the new year mum and dad shouted all four grandchildren, Marilyn, Terry and myself to four nights in Los Angeles to visit Disneyland, Universal Studios and California Adventure. It was a great time and the four kids all get on so well it was neat to see. Marilyn, Terry, Dad, Alice and David travelled home and mum and I stayed an extra week. We went off to San Antonio in Texas for four days and had a wonderful time. The weather was quite warm when we arrived (80 deg F) and then the next morning it was about 42 Deg F. most extremes but no rain so that was great. We had a day trip to the Lyndon B Johnson ranch (mum’s family name is Lyndon) so that was good and we found the most wonderful bead shop in the middle of a small town where we stopped for lunch. On our trip back to the airport we stopped at another bead shop (cost $2 more for the two taxis) but about $150 in beads. We then had a couple of days at Ewan’s and then home. I arrived home on 17 January at 10 in the morning and Raewyn, Kim and girls arrived about 4pm to stay for several days. Good timing all.
Raewyn and Kim’s visit meant that we had a house warming party so that was fun with quite a few in attendance and I could show people the new house. Unfortunately the garden was not done and it became a bit of a mission. The concrete pavers were down but that was about it. The saga continued and finally in April I had someone else lay lawn and tidy up all the edges etc. it looks reasonable now and not too bad. I did have a lawnmower but the old push mower is not the best so dad is still doing them. Shellie’s son Keith did the edges of the garden with the left over pavers from the old house so it looks quite nice now. Still have to complete the lawn and planting of the gardens but they are happening slowly. I have a few rhododendron’s in and they are mostly flowering so that is good.
March saw me travel to northland with the netball team once again as no parents could go. I had a great time but not very successful at driving the van so have to have more practise. Alice was also on the trip so interesting to see her with her friends. We had two great games of netball but one was close and the other a whitewash really so it was a shame. The kids did really well with the heat though and performed on the Marae wonderfully when we were welcomed on. We had lots of fun, especially making them go op shopping and then out to dinner in their outfits.
April – Stephanie and I went to Sydney for the weekend and had four fun filled days. We climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge which was amazing. I am so proud of myself and would like to attempt it again but will have to see what happens. We ate at nice restaurants, visited lots of attractions, mostly for free as we had a Sydney pass and even went to the movies “The Reader” one of the great movies of the year I think. Term two at school was fairly much the same as usual but we did have the building start on the renovation of the Tech Block so that was neat. Finally it has happened; after 13 years the school board have been trying to get it done. Now in November it is nearly completed and all classes have moved into the new areas.
June - mum and I went to my cousin Karen’s wedding in Auckland (mum was staying in Tauranga, so I did a lot of driving that weekend), while the rest of the family went to the all blacks game in Wellington. Also had two embroidery birthday parties so a very social month as well.
July was busy with a trip to Wellington with Shellie to see “Starlight Express”. Quite different to the London version but I really enjoyed it. I then went up to Tauranga to stay with mum for the last five days of her break up there and then came home. July saw the sale of the old house and then the tenants that I had moved out. The new ones are friends from school so that has been good and they are a nice couple so that is good. I miss the house sometimes but still love the new one more. Also in July I had the new teacher, Gemma stay with me for a couple of weeks. She arrived from the Bolton area of England and is a really lovely young lady. Most enjoyable time with her and she is a big Harry Potter / Twilight fan so managing to go to a number of movies and things with her.
In August I went to the secondary principal’s PA’s Conference in Hamilton which was loads of fun and caught up with a few friends. September was really busy with Marilyn, mum, Alice and I going to the World of Wearable Art in Wellington, then my friend Cathy came and stayed one night. October was the theatre month with Miss Saigon in New Plymouth, Mama Mia in Wellington (with Stephanie and Shellie), Hawera embroidery guild 25th birthday, guild weekend retreat and regional day for the opening of the regional embroidery exhibition. As well as all these events I went with Marilyn to Auckland to see El Divo. We stayed with one of Terry’s nieces and caught up with out cousins Maree and Karen so that was great.
The Lithgow clan have had a bit of success at the regional embroidery exhibition with Marilyn getting a second place for her mat, Alice winning the secondary school section, while I won the Home Décor original design section and also got a judge’s choice for my second piece. Mum was the only one who did not get any awards. Our friend Maree won the other judge’s choice for her apple needlework accessories set. It was really wonderful and I will try to put a photo of it on my blog www.didi-beadwork.blogspot.com
As most of you will be aware I have now been in the new house for a year and it certainly has been different. No chopping the wood and lighting the fire when I get home the house is already warm (too warm sometimes). I have bought new linen and thinking about a new television but I keep looking at the cost. I also fell in love with the Nintendo Wii when we were at Ewan’s last Christmas and thinking of buying one of those as my gift from Santa for myself. Not certain but going to talk to David about it and see if he will go shopping with me possibly. Some good deals on them at the moment and it looks as if it would be about $700.
We have just had the senior prizegiving here at school and Alice was the Proxime Accessit – runner-up to the Dux but she won the cup for best in Mathematics and Science which was great as Andrew (Dux) did not do well in either of these subjects. She is all signed up for Otago University for Health Sciences for 2010, on her way to going into medicine and becoming a doctor. The only thing she has wanted to do as far as I can see.
This month has also seen a big shock at the school with Warren, resigning from his position as principal and leaving in two weeks. Think that losing his father in September was the catalyst for this but I personally will be sad to see him leave. He has been great to work for, a real fun sense of humour and interesting in his approach to lots of things in the school. Still he may be back in the district one day.
December will be busy again with Neil coming from Melbourne to share in Christmas. Neil my brother was here in October for a few days and I think he was shocked to see how much his parents have aged after two years. It was interesting to see him at home as he has not been here for a long time and quite different to when Ewan and family come.
I have just put the entries into the art society show so hoping that they sell well. Then I can make some more although having to make a number of Christmas decorations for presents and currently trying to make a stocking for Neil for Christmas day. It should be a fun day as we are planning breakfast at mum’s, lunch at my place and then Marilyn and family will be off to the Walshes for their dinner. Boxing day will see us visit the Burnnand family as usual. I hope that the new year will bring lots of fun and prosperity to you and your family, and that your Christmas break was fun without too much added to the stress levels. May the blessings of the season be with you always.

Merry christmas to all

2009-12-23T19:19:00.002Z

i hope that any taht read this blog have a safe and festive season with lots of family fun, friendship and frolics. (I love alliteration, don't you).
We are starting to have summer so that is really nice and it looks like a fine day for christmas here.
Diane

PS I will post my christmas letter if I can work out how to get all the pictures in.

heart of the cabin - block 1

2009-12-09T11:27:00.003Z

This is the first block for the heart of the cabin cyber workshop. I have generally got the same colours for the dark family but have moved into the rust colours for the alternate family. I had to use a cording thread for the hearts in log 1 as we do not get the renaissance threads in New Zealand. Still I think it looks okay and we are using varities that work as we go. I have not put the beads in as I thought I would do that last as I may have to source special beads from USA. I have enjoyed this and have done most of the log 1 in block 2. very slow progress I know but hoping over the summer holiday to continue with more.
diane

Week nearly over

2009-12-03T06:55:00.002Z

Thank goodness the week is nearly over.
I am pleased to say that the school magazine is coming together and I think we have to thank three students for this.
I am still trying to get Neil's christmas stocking made so it should be finished. I have also finished (nearly) my nutcracker for the Homes for Hospice on this weekend. He looks great and think he will be fun.
this weekend is going to be very busy so hoping that I get enough sleep.

It is here!

2009-11-27T03:38:00.004Z

The final day is here and Warren has departed the shores for another land. Very sad to see him leave and hope that all his dreams are fulfilled.
School will be a quiet place on Monday without his John Lennon, Arsenal, Yoda and other esoteric references.

This weekend having the second christmas function of my year on. The A&P show is on adn Sunday will find me at the Gallery watching the Art exhibition. I intend to take some beads to make a couple of beaded balls as I need to make more for christmas presents.

If you manage to read this enjoy life, while it still shines and when the rainy season starts, don't live in the memories or regrets but go out and find more sunshine.

Been to see maree about finishing hte BJP pieces for 2009 and have an idea so hoping to find time in the next month to do it. I will then manage to post the pictures of the finished pieces.
Next years work has also been under consideration and extending the inspiration could be my theme.
Diane

christmas is coming

2009-11-24T09:02:00.004Z

It is now only a month to go before christmas arrives and it seems as if there is so much to do.
school has been really busy with lots going on and only three days before Warren finishes. The board is also in a bit of turmoil with a couple of people resigning before the elections next year. It should be fun.
I have done the first christmas cards. I spent most of sunday making cards and did a whole lot using one of the kits I had purchased from Megan. Saturday was exciting as I finally purchased a kitchen whizz and spent the afternoon unpacking it, then went for a walk to Marilyn's and did some stitching on my stocking. I will try and upload photos of the various pieces I have nearly finished as soon as I get the photos off the camera.
We have the homes for hospice in a couple of weeks and things are getting busy with getting prepared. Went today to see about the furniture for the room.
I still have two beaded journal pages to finish beading but have decided that I will not do one and get the August piece done and then can spend some time in the holiday break framing them up. That is my job for tomorrow - I am walking to Maree's and asking for her advice about the finishing of them.

news of the day

2009-11-13T02:33:00.003Z

not embroidery news but still important in my life.
my principal, whom I have really enjoyed working for and he has given me lots of encouragement to be bold in my life is leaving in two weeks. Warren will be moving to Qatar - one of four local principals to do so.
still absorbing the news and feeling that there could be a bead page in there somewhere.
diane

Exhibition entries nearly there

2009-10-23T06:15:00.002+01:00

My two exhibition entries for the Regional exhbition are nearly finished. i have used the book cover done in the Anne Brocas class for one entry and have to complete the book mark tonight before I go to wellington for the weekend.
The other - my goddess for creative stitchers needs more beads sewn on and her hair done so I am quickly posting this and running for the evening.
have a great labour day everyone.

pictures of projects

2009-10-09T09:37:00.002+01:00

this is the beginnings of the August man. the circle of material is from an old school blazer and will not be completely covered. this man will also not be filled in as if to say all the inspiring ideas and creative thoughts have been spread around him over the past 12 months.

this is the beginnings of the Canvas piece called Heart of the cabin.
it is loads of fun and tonight i am completing the first two bars so i can do the next one tomorrow. This is from an ANG cyberworkshop and the third one my mum and I have done.

signed up and ready

2009-10-09T02:01:00.002+01:00

I have signed up ready for the 2010 BJP. Yeah me making a committment early.
Had a great week - we had snow again on the hill (Mount Egmont) and it has been bitterly cold as well.
Mum and I have started the Heart of the Cabin project for ANG and it will take a while to stitch but I have a month for the first two blocks so that should be okay. last night I took my piece of the really big stretcher bars and put it on the 18inch ones so it is slightly easier to handle.

Nearly finished the August piece for BJP and will post the picture of the little red man tonight. Tried last night but no internet.

Halfway through the making of my Autumn goddess for the regional exhibition which starts in three weeks so need to get the skates on. The leaves are all lined up on the floor and I want her out of the way before night class starts again on 19 October.

It has been a busy holidays with two trips to auckland and one to wellington with a funeral, World of Waerable Art show, El Divo concert and catching up with cousins and friends also.
diane

BJP continuing on!

2009-09-22T21:21:00.000+01:00

A message from robyn about the continuing nature of the BJP. This one will be a calendar year so for me summer to summer yeah!! what can i do.

Important info:
The Bead Journal Project starts in January, 2010.
Registration starts October 1, 2009 at beadjournalproject.com/reg.htm.
No experience is necessary! The goal is to create one visual journal piece a month for a year that includes beads. Participants work can be seen at beadjournalproject.com /bjp.htm. Thanks for all your support!!!Susan

Procrastination - is it happening this month

2009-09-14T04:21:00.003+01:00

I tried to give up procrastinating over the weekend and made a start on the last two pages for the BJP - I have done the backgrounds for June and August so they can be started now. I looked at all the pieces on the wall and decided that red – a colour I had not used was the deciding colour for August. I found fabric from an old school blazer to create a circle for the man to rest on so that was quite exciting. I think this little man will be all gold and sparkly as a celebration that I have finished the project. My June piece is on purple as that is my cousin's favourite colour.

My ohter highlight for the weekend was that I started making a new Christmas decoration for class for next year. I discovered that the pattern was in the book in the wrong order. It showed me that I should have read all the instructions first and not procrastinated about it. I wasted about an hour by the time if found the mistake so I was slightly bothered but managed to get about half of it made by the end of the evening.

Still I had a great weekend and was really trying the 15 minutes I can do anything philosophy so accomplished quite a few things including seeing a movie, hosting the embroidery guild for a work day in my house, starting on my creative stitchers piece and even doing all the ironing.

here is april

2009-09-07T11:34:00.004+01:00

April is finished and the sense of achievement is almost that of climbing the harbour bridge again.

I still have June and August to complete but I still feel a sense of satisfaction as I have managed to keep going with the project. I have found that in the past I start well but do not complete well a long term project so this has been great. I have this month to complete the last two pages and then I am starting a cyberworkshop with ANG www.needlepoint,org so that will be great.

I am looking for threads to do this project with at the moment.

My other accomplishment for this past weekend is the completion of the stitching of my embellished canvas piece and hopefully next weekend I will have made it into the book cover and taken a photo for the blog. yeah!

We have wonderful spring weather here over the past few days with the most glorious mountain (http://www.taranaki.info/visit/ go here for a visual tour of the province) Mount Egmont/Taranaki and the daffodils have been great.

just two months to do

2009-09-06T22:45:00.002+01:00

I have finished april but forgot to take a photo last night so that will be tonight's job. only two months to go - June and august. june is practically sorted in my head but august i am not sure off.
will have to put my thinking cap on and see what happens.
beautiful weekend here with fathers day on sunday and we had lunch at my sisters then spent the first part of the afternoon stitching a christmas stocking. it was great.
I have completed the stitching for my book cover so started on the journey to make it on sunday morning but decided i did not like the stitching so an undo is coming up this afternoon after work.
also started the christmas ornament in bead and button and it is fabulous. I need to order more beads for everyone so will do that i the holidays.

April BJP

2009-08-27T10:45:00.003+01:00

April was an exciting month as my best friend Stephanie and I went to Sydney, Australia for a weekend getaway. While there we climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge which was a real challenge for both of us as neither of us are great at heights and my climbing with my asthma was an unknown event.

It was a magical experience and so neat I would do it again. We went up in the daylight and came down in the dusk so we saw the sunset over the opera house which was fabulous.

This month I have tried to show the harbour bridge in the background with me being excited in my grey suit. The blue was chosen as so much of sydney revolves around the harbour and while we were there we went on ferries, jet boats and over the bridge on the train so lots of water in our visit.

More stitching done.

2009-08-07T04:43:00.002+01:00

I have a face on my July piece and the Little pink lady is the may piece. not certain how she came about but she is very gay and a friend of my March piece.
the background for May is my crazy machine stitching that i did a lot of several years ago and made cards from. She looks like a little cracker, very lively.

month finished

2009-08-04T05:34:00.004+01:00

I can't remember if I had posted the picture of March but here she is again just in case.

This is my July piece which I stitched while on holiday with my mum in Tauranga. We sat each morning on the deck overlooking orchards towards the bay and pacific ocean. It was wonderful.

This couple are the juxtaposition of the sea and earth on the landscape. The little lady is waiting for a face but I am thinking the earthman also needs a face. I shall see what happens this weekend when I do some more stitching on them.

The background was constructed with threads laid and chiffons in the colours of the earth and sky. I know the blue is the bay with the white of the sand and the green of the orchards. I tried this several ways but this was how it kept telling me to sew my people on.

Diane

Holiday Break

2009-07-16T04:38:00.002+01:00

The winter holiday break is nearly finished and I have completed the stitching on Pukeko Patch, my piece from 2008 embroidery conference. I have almost completed two more bjp pieces just need to tidy them up and post them on the blog so then only two more to do and 1 to finish in august. it has been a fun year and not certain if i will do it next year as comtemplating another cyber stitch class.
also been doing my swap bot entries so need to get them all done this week for posting away.

Creative canvas comes alive

2009-06-28T22:44:00.004+01:00

embellished canvas class at the weekend was great. This is my book cover half done so I am getting excited about it. I have four more nights that I can stitch on it before I have to put it aside for another piece - Pukeko Patch. It has been fun using stitches in a more random way than I traditionally do.

Inchies number 2. This is the set that I have sent to Cheryl in USA. I hope she likes the beaded stars done with #15 beads. I love these stars and have made lots using plastic beads for christmas trees.

Gatsby gals are on the go again

2009-06-17T11:11:00.002+01:00

I am making my gatsby gals again. Here is Serafina a christmas angel and I have a number of her friends nearly ready to send for sale at the Wanganui Community Gallery. I have made over 100 of these brooches / angels and I thought I was finished but had a request to make more. Oh well that is what the weekend is for.

Off to Tauranga and then Auckland this weekend for my cousin's wedding so that will be a big trip. I am hoping that the weather is not going to be too bad as it has been a bit cold and very frosty here today.

Dottee Goddess #1

2009-06-10T05:34:00.003+01:00

I received this little pattern for an Altoid tin dottee doll from CC - Hawaii and this is my first one. She was fun to stitch and I have lined her little home but need to finish decorating the top.

This was what I stitched instead of my april bjp piece but I am on track now and have planned some time away this month which will see some stitching done.

Diane

January Man is well travelled.

2009-06-10T05:26:00.003+01:00

Here is the little January man with his mickey mouse ears because that is where he went with all the family. Also his colours were decided because we were in the snow and ice for new years day and then LA so some fireworks (hence the background fabric).

After that mum and I went to San Antonio - his little brown dusty feet and he picked up a wonderful horse shoe while there.

When he arrived home in New Zealand after his travels he had a party (more fun in the background) and settled into a little beach holiday as well.

I hope that you love him, he has been finished for a month but i have been able to get onto my computer to post his picture.

I have april and may to do but I have completed a couple of other things including nearly all the satin stitching on a piece of whitework. - yeah for me that was my goal to finish it in May.

Diane

Inchies sent

2009-06-10T05:22:00.001+01:00

I completed the first swap-bot and sent these little inchies off to Missouri City, Texas so I hope that they arrive safely.
I am now onto the second lot and think this time I will use some of the clipart and beading things that I have done previously for inspiration. This weekend should see them started.
diane