Before Mr E whisked us away to Cairns last weekend (his birthday gift to me) I sketched, traced and prepared a couple of new Gentle Domesticity BOM blocks to stitch in the car, but as I shared here much of our time away was spent catching up on sleep, and even in the car I was too tired to make a start.
It wasn't till I got back home that the first of those two blocks came to life with needle and thread. Here's a progress peek...
When I drew up this design I had it marked as the August block, however, after some personal revelations this past week it's been moved forward to March as it carries a very important message - but be patient as you'll have to wait till March 5th for your free pattern download.
(learn more about the 2016 Gentle Domesticity BOM here)
Have you stitched the first two blocks? If so, email me a photo (here) or leave a link to your blog post (if you've shared a photo) in the comments below so I can do a Show & Tell post of Gentle Domesticity blocks next month. I'd love to see your blocks and I know my readers would too.
New Flash: Finally, here's the recipe for my Pear & Cranberry Loaf! Sorry this took so long but life steps in and I'm really going with the flow these days...
You'll find it HERE on my food blog with a link to download and print.
This is gluten free, dairy free, and has no added sugar, but it's delicious!
I hope you give it a try, and if you're an inventive type of cook you'll find some ideas for switching ingredients in the post as well.
Gifts!
This week I received the most beautiful birthday gift from one of my Club members, Jan Skinner.
Blossom was with me when it arrived so the oohs and aaahs were doubled as I unwrapped the package.
Jan had no idea when she made this black-faced cross-stitch needlebook that I adore black faced sheep (especially Dorpers)...
The beautifully cross-stitched blanket lifts to reveal a place to store needles in the soft wool of the sheep's body...
Even the design on the blanket sports a black-faced sheep.
I shall treasure this gift always, and when I am no more for this earth my Blossom shall take it as her own. Thank you, dear Jan. xx
Speaking of gifts and Blossom, look what my girl gave me for my birthday - pretty spotty ducks!
I'd seen them in a specialty shop in town last month and fawned over them so she knew the perfect gift for her mama's 57th birthday.
Shall I let you in on a funny story about these ducks?
Yes? Okay!
When I opened the white tissue paper to reveal my beautiful birthday ducks Mr E frowned at my obvious delight. I was puzzled and asked him why the funny face?
He said, "Why would anyone put feet on pears?!"
I laughed till my sides ached!
Gotta love that man.
Have a lovely weekend, and be sure to take time out just for you.
Sit quietly, breathe deeply, and ponder all the wonderful things you have and the people who love you just as you are.
There's life to be had in those kind of ponderings...
