Plain & Fancy Merchant

A Pre-Nashville Sampling

2012-02-12T21:20:00.001-05:00

Good Evening Everyone!

I hope everyone is well this evening. I have a list a

mile long of things I need to get done tonight and

sending out this post is high on that list.

The first thing I must tell you is just a little

business information. On Wednesday,

February15th, our FAX number will change to

540-371-6377, which is our primary business

number. Additionally, on that date, that

telephone number may be down for a brief

time due to telephone work. I hope we do not

run into any problems that will extend the

down time. Hopefully, changing over the

fax number will run smoothly too. If you get

a busy signal or do not hear back from us,

please give us a call or email us.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Now, on to the fun stuff!

I'm hoping all of these designs will be released

at the Nashville show or before. If released before,

they will be sent to the shoppes in my

Automatic Program.

"SPRING EGGS III"

is finished. This is not the picture

for the front of the publication, but you

can at least see the designs. I hope you like

them. The trim, charms, and buttons are available

from me as well.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Now, another little sampling from

"A FAMILY HOMESTEAD"

I really like the way this is turning out. It

will be a really sweet way to celebrate your

family members.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Now, for something I haven't shared with

you as yet. There are three designs in this

publication. Here is a little sampling from

"MAKING MY HEART HAPPY".

These sweet little heart designs are just the

thing to stitch for that special family member,

friend, or yourself.

They will be trimmed with the adorable

tiny rick rack shown and embellished with my

charms.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

I guess you can see why I have a lot to do.

So, I will say "Good Night" now.

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

Weathervanes

2012-02-08T20:06:00.001-05:00

Good Evening Everyone!

I am busy, busy as usual - stitching, printing,

shooting photos, graphing. You name it,

multi tasking is the name of the game right now

and I'm tired.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

But I just had to throw this out there to see what

you think. I have been designing since 1979 which

pretty much makes me older than dirt and makes

for thousands of products in stack after stack of

bookcases. The other day I came across some of

these, long out of print --

"COUNTRY WEATHER VANES".

Do you love weather vanes? I sure do. This

publication has 13 designs, yes that is what we

used to do in this industry. Give you lots of

designs in one publication and to think that I

and an old friend, Amyee Johnson, actually graphed

all of it by hand.

I am offering this publication for $10.00 plus $1.50
shipping. You could used it for so many things - punch needle,
appliques, needlepoint. All of these are adaptations of

antique weathervanes owned by some lucky person.

I'll see how it does and then make a decision about

reprinting it, but for now I have a few to offer.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

I take Paypal, Visa, Mastercard, and personal

checks.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Be back soon. Spring Eggs III is almost

ready to reveal as well as other stuff.

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

More New Stuff

2012-02-05T16:51:00.000-05:00

Good afternoon Everyone!!

We had a nice little birthday celebration yesterday.

Believe it or not pizza and apple pie is really

tasty together. I didn't hear any complaints

from anyone, so they must have agreed. We got

home early evening so I had a little time to

get in some much needed stitching.

Thought I would let you see a little more

of a few things in the works.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Home - A Haven . . ." is moving right along

and here is a little more for you to see.

Then there is

"To Stitch Is Bliss".

There will also be a sweet little pin cushion

along with this.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

My Spring Eggs II will be available really

soon. They are being put together right

now. I should have them in my hands

this week and will be able to show you

more. I think you will really like them

and there will be plenty of time to get

them stitched in time for Easter.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Well, I must go. We are going to a Super

Bowl get together. I must admit that I'm

not much for watching sports on TV,

but it's fun to gather with friends for this

event.

Take care!

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

A Little Glimpse

2012-02-02T20:20:00.000-05:00

Good Evening Everyone!

Wanted to let you know that I am working

on a new sampler. I think I am going to name

it "Family Homestead", but that could change.

Anyway, just wanted to let you see a little

of the design and feast your eyes on the

yummy rich Crescent Colours silks I am

using. The fabric is Olde Mill Java from

R & R Reproductions, one of my favorite

colors. Here goes, hope you like it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

I'm heading back to Richmond in the morning

and taking all of my stitching with me. Hope to

make a dent in my new stuff if Avery will let me.

Saturday we will be celebrating Cameron's birthday.

Avery's Dad, Paul, had his birthday on January 28, so we

are having a combination party. Apple Pie and pizza,

how is that for a combination of flavors?

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hope all of you have a great weekend. I hope

to catch up on some work and some sleep.

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

Birthday Wishes

2012-02-01T15:34:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone!

This was a very happy day 39 years ago.

Cameron will probably hate me for

mentioning his age, but that just means that

we have had our wonderful son around for

many happy years.

Here he is at Christmas, holding little

Avery.

Happy Birthday Cameron!!

We love you,

Mom and Dad

~~~~~~~~~~~~

And I might add that if it wasn't for

Cameron, there probably would not be

a Homespun Elegance blog or anything

else that has to do with computers. He

bales me out of trouble almost weekly.

Thanks Cameron!!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Best Laid Plans

2012-01-29T16:47:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone!

I promised you would hear from me on Wednesday

when I got back from Richmond. Well, I got back

and had to return on Thursday morning because

Avery was not getting well and could not go back

to daycare. The DR had to put him on a steroid

and when that didn't seem to be helping, he added

an additional medicine to his nebulizer treatment.

We are all a little concerned at this point.

He has been sick since before Christmas with this
virus. It is just going to take more time for him
to get over this.
~~~~~~~~~~~~

I don't know if I mentioned

it, but I had made the difficult decision not to go

to the Nashville Trade Show this year. It is only

a few weeks away so I guess my decision was a

good one. There is no way I can have

enough new things ready to take to the show.

I'm still designing though and will have new

things to share with you. In fact, this is a tiny

little sneak peak of Spring Eggs II. You

might remember Spring Eggs I that I did

a few years ago. Same format for the next one.

Sweet little eggs for your Easter decorating

or gift giving.

Here is a sneak peak of Spring Eggs II.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I had a birthday a few days ago. My Aunt

says we must always celebrate our birthdays

and never fret about how many of them we

have had. Sometimes that is hard to do

when we look in the mirror (a magnifying

mirror I have to admit. Another peril

of getting older - declining eyesight)

I had a wonderful birthday, thanks to family

and friends. I just have to share something

that Hollis gave me.

She knows how much I love antique frames

and family pictures, especially ones that

include little Avery. This is when he was only

a few weeks old. I will treasure this always.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I have a bookcase in the living room where

many of my pictures are displayed. It looks

like I'll need to move some of those books

to make room for more pictures.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Well, enough chatter for one day. I hope all of

you are well and I'll be back soon.

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

A Little Peak

2012-01-22T14:15:00.000-05:00

Hi There!

It has been a crazy Sunday and now I have

three posts in a row. The weather man is calling

for icy conditions here tomorrow morning so my

trip to Richmond has been moved up to this

afternoon. I have to be there in the morning

so that Hollis and Paul can get to work on time.

I knew this was coming. We have been so lucky

in the weather that we have had. Just a little

snow and ice on Saturday. I hope this isn't

the beginning of our weather pattern changing.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Anyway, I have been printing my new things

like crazy. Running up and down the stairs

between shoving paper in the printer and shoving

stuff in my suitcase and bags for Homespun

Elegance stuff that I lug to Richmond every week.

You would think I would lose a few pounds, but

oh no. The middle age spread arrived and doesn't

want to leave. Not happy about that either!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Because of my schedule change, I need to

show you a little peak of something sweet

coming your way.

This will be released in time for the Nashville

show so I have to hurry up.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

I'm also reprinting another old design. I've

always loved this one. It includes some of my

favorite things - pineapples and sampler motifs.

Hope you like it. It will be in my Etsy shoppe

soon, but not this week. Let me know if you

think I should reprint. I love your feed back.

"Welcome Each New Day"

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Well, I must go. Be back in touch next

Wednesday. Have a great week!

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

New Stuff

2012-01-21T18:55:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Two posts in two days, what is the world coming

to? I need to do as much as I can because I will

be going back to babysit Avery on Monday

and then I'm gone for two days. Playing with
the baby is much more fun than working, so
not much gets down when I'm there.
~~~~~~~~~~~~

My Auto will be shipped next week and

everything will be going to the distributors

as well.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Heart Posies Needle Case"Bits and Pieces

Retail $4.50

"Winter Joy" Bits and Pieces

Retail $4.50

"Needles and Pins Pincushion"

Retail $7.50

"Star Light Sampler Pincushion"

Retail $7.50

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hope all is well with you and that you have time

for "Many Happy Stitches",

Sandra

Valentine Decorating

2012-01-20T17:01:00.000-05:00

Good Afternoon Everyone!

First of all, I wanted to thank you for the orders

for my Valentine special in the last Blog

entry. All have been shipped so you should

have them in plenty of time for your

Valentine decorating or gifting.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Speaking of Valentine decorating, do

you do very much? I did more when my

children were at home, but now I just do

a little. Of course, when Avery gets a little

older I'll be excited about decorating for him.

This is the extent of my decorating for this

year.

All of my red needlework accessories and a

simple antique sampler. I just got the table

runner -- perfect for Valentine's Day.

By the way, the antique sampler has been

reproduced, so it is available if you like it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

This heart shaped basket is filled with "vintage"

valentines. Most of these came from my

Grandmother. She kept every card and letter

she ever received. I am so thankful that I have

some of them.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

A few heart shaped cookie cutters in my kitchen

bay window. This time next year I'll be making

cookies for little Avery.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

I hope all of you have a great weekend. I'll be

back soon with my new things.

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

Some Goodies

2012-01-13T13:59:00.000-05:00

Good Friday Afternoon!

Hope all is well in your little part of the world.

I think ours may blow away. The winds are

howling and the temperatures are dropping.

Today is definitely a stay inside day for me,

so I thought I would take a couple minutes

to share a glimpse of some new

things and offer you a "Fancy Friday" special.

I know I have really been neglectful on my

"Fancy Friday"promise of many months ago.

Life sure gets in the way of plans.

~~~NEW STUFF COMING ~~~

Valentine Posies

Winter Joy

Star Light Sampler Pincushion

Needles and Pins Pincushion

All of these will be ready really soon.

Quick little projects for your stitching joy.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

In the meantime I waned to offer you a

little Valentine Special. Both of these can

be stitched up in no time and ready to give

to that special someone or keep for your

Valentine decorations.

The retail value of both of these designs is

$13.00. Until next Friday you can have

both for $8.50 which includes the shipping

or $6.50 for either of them which includes

the shipping. The hand-painted wooded

button in "Love Simplified" is available

from me as well as the Olde Brass "Heart"

buttons in "Love Always".

I have made this sweet heart pillow for

someone out there. It is constructed of

this wonderful old coverlet fabric with

a felted wool back. I wrapped it with

aged scrim, vintage trim and a special

vintage button. It is all hand stitched.

I hope someone out there loves it.

Measures 8" wide X 9" long.

$37.00 which includes the shipping.

If you are interested in any of my specials,

just email or call me. I take personal

checks, Visa, MC, and Paypal.

XXXXXXXXXX

Well, I think that is enough for today.

I need to start graphing the new things.

Hope you all have a great weekend with

"Many Happy Stitches",

Sandra

Do You Need Your Mittens?

2012-01-08T20:30:00.000-05:00

Good Evening Everyone!

Do you need your mittens?

Is it cold where you are? Have you had any snow

yet? The weather here in Virginia is really strange.

I do not want to complain, but having to turn

on the air conditioning to take down the

Christmas decorations is just a little odd.

Maybe the temperature has something to do

with why I cannot get rid of this infection.

I have coughed so much that the DR

thought I had broken a rib. After the xray

was negative, he said I have probably done

something to the cartilage. The pain is really

bad and actually feels like something is

moving. I am so over this. The pain medication

knocks me out at night so at least sleep is

possible. I need to get better so I can get

inspired to design.

Anyway, I'm sorry to be complaining so

much of late. Hope things are better in your

world. Please use your antiseptic hand wash

and stay inside and stitch.

XXXXXXXXXXX

If you like the above design, it is

"Mittens Each Day"

It is $8.50 which includes the shipping.

Just call or email if you are interested.

Stay well!!

Many Healthy Stitches,

Sandra

Happy New Year

2012-01-02T12:52:00.000-05:00

Good Afternoon Everyone!

"Bless your heart, it's New Years Day,

May its gladness with you stay."

An adaptation of a verse from an

olde postcard.

I sincerely hope all of you had a wonderful

New Years Eve. Ours was very low key but

exactly what we needed since some of us

are still suffering from whatever this

respiratory thing is.

Avery started the New Year off right by

sleeping through the night. This may not

sound very exciting, but it is just one of the

few times it has happened. So hoping for many

more nights like it in the New Year.

I hope my energy level picks up soon, as I need

to get inspired about Homespun Elegance. I've

always had a hard time getting back to the

grind stone after such a long break.

Since I really do not have any stitching pictures

to share, I thought you might like to see some

of my needlework tools and vintage treasures

in my collection. I love all of this stuff.

Just don't look too close, or you will see

all of the "vintage" dust that goes with it.

I will share some more another day.

This is another one of my collections. There are

many more. Just cannot help myself.

Wishing all of you a

"Many Happy Stitches" day.

Sandra

Post Christmas Wishes!

2011-12-28T11:16:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Everyone!

Just wanted to say how sorry I am to have not sent out

Christmas wishes. Unfortunately, the respiratory

thing I mentioned on the 17th only got worse,

resulting in two trips to the DR. I really thought I

was developing pneumonia. They gave me a breathing

treatment and medicine on the first trip. After 5 days I

was having bad reactions to that and really not getting

any better, so the day after Christmas I got a new antibiotic

and am finally starting to feel a little better. Nothing was

really ready for Christmas - not the baking, the wrapping,

or the Christmas tree. The tree was finally decorated by

Hollis and Lehmer Christmas Eve.

Regardless of all the sick drama with me, we still had

a wonderful time. Avery was just adorable and if

you will bear with me I'd like to share a few

pictures. The block above is covered with my favorite

pictures of him since his birth. The bottom has a

picture of Hollis, Paul, and Avery. His

name and date of birth are stamped on the top.

I had so much fun making it. I think it will be

my annual ornament for him.

This was the picture for Hollis and Paul's

Christmas card. The huge Stieff bear is Hollis'.

When she was just a few years old, I found that

wonderful bear at an antique shoppe for just a

small amount. What a treasure. Even his growler

still works.

Here he is in his Christmas PJ's being read

"The Night Before Christmas". Lehmer read this to

Cameron and Hollis on Christmas Eve for years.

So, the tradition continues. Unfortunately, his Daddy,

Paul had to work on Christmas Eve. I hope

that next year Avery will stay up later, so Paul

can take over.

Lastly, a picture of him in his "Radio Flyer"

push wagon - a gift from Lehmer and I and his

Uncle Cameron.

Our beautiful Christmas tree that got decorated

just in time.

To all of my friends out there, I wish you

"Merriness" for the rest of the year and

for all of your "New Year".

Sandra

Merry Christmas Ya'll

2011-12-17T19:29:00.000-05:00

Good Evening Everyone!

I'm feeling a little better today. My stress level

has been over the top lately as I am sure you

could tell. To add to that, my dish washer

chose the week before the busiest cooking

week of the year to croak. So,

instead of doing Christmas things last night,

Lehmer and I were out in the madness on

a Friday night making a hasty decision about

a dishwasher. Thank goodness they can

install it on Wednesday. To add insult to injury,

I gave a lousy upper respiratory thing going on

(but a little better today due to lots of meds).

XXXXXXXXXX

Now, for the good news - the tree is finally up

and it smells so good (even with the respiratory

thing I can still smell it). Makes me happy indeed.

Even got a little decorating done today, but there

are boxes everywhere. I sure hope we do not

have any unexpected guests. Went to my

friend's house today and cut lots of magnolia

for decorating. I have plenty of boxwood and

holly on our property, so it is just a matter of

picking it.

XXXXXXXXXX

Going to Richmond tomorrow to see my sweet

Avery and celebrate my sweet Hollis' birthday.

I am lugging all of my ingredients, pans,

and recipes so I can bake while babysitting

Monday and Tuesday. This should be

interesting, but hopefully he will take

some good naps for me.

Anyway, just checking in with all of you

and thanking you for all of your sweet

comments of late. To Mouse - I wanted to

say that I didn't dare mention how many

candles will be on her cake. You know how

women are about those numbers, even though

she is still so young.

Take care and "Be Merry"!!

Sandra

Happy Birthday

2011-12-16T07:51:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Everyone!!

This is a wonderful day -

Hollis' Birthday.

She came almost a month early, so she

was our Christmas present that year.

~~HAPPY BIRTHDAY HOLLIS~~

HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY.

Wishing Thee Merriness

2011-12-14T19:27:00.000-05:00

Good Evening Everyone!

Are you as overwhelmed as I am? I have ten days to

get my Christmas act together, and things are

not going too well around here. I haven't put

a dent in my shopping (with the exception of

Avery of course), the tree is on the back porch

(not in the house), and not a single decoration is

in place. I do have a beautiful boxwood wreath on

my front door, due to the generosity of my dear

friend Ethel. We always have a massive wreath covered

with tiny white lights hanging from a huge

tree in our front yard. I replaced all the lights last year

because many were not working. Well, guess what --

plugged it in this afternoon and two strands are not

working. What a pain!! All of the strands have to come off

and the bad ones replaced. I have said many, many bad

words over the years due to Christmas lights.

They drive me crazy.

I'm trying to be optimistic that tomorrow will be a very

productive day and my "Merriness" will return.

XXXXXXXXXXX

ANNOUNCEMENT

Our last day to ship will be Friday,

December 16th. I know I should have

announced this sooner, but time just got

away from me. Faye and I will be taking a

much needed Christmas break. I need time to

get ready to spend time with one of the

reasons for my "Merriness".

Many Merry Stitches,

Sandra

MORE GOODIES FOR SALE

2011-12-08T15:38:00.001-05:00

Good Afternoon Everyone!

To all of you who have ordered from last

night's post, thank you very much. Today

I am offering you a few more goodies.

Please note that I have also put some new

things in my ETSY Shoppe - in particular my

Santa and Lady Silhouette

Ornaments.

Just click on my ETSY shoppe in the left

side bar. If you like these and don't want to

go through ETSY, just email or call me.

I also added and re listed a few publications.

XXXXXXXXXX

"Tiny Oval Boxes"

Unfortunately, I am sold out of the "Stitching Lady"

Ornament, but I have a few of the "Horn Blower"

and "Lady Silhouette". These tiny little oval

paper mache boxes have been painted and

decoupaged. A hole is drilled at the top for

the hanging cord and a little ball of bees' wax

is inside. They are so sweet. We used to sell

many of these at the shop.

They measure 1 1/2" High, 1 1/8" Wide,

and 7/8" Deep -- tiny little treasures!
I have two of each.

$9.00 which includes the shipping.

XXXXXXXXXX

"Paper Mache Sheep"

Isn't he cute! I used to have these for sale in the

Shoppe too. I made them using an antique cookie

cutter. He measures a mere 2 1/2" Wide X 1 1/4" Tall.

He is adorned with a tinsel garland with a brass bell

hanging from it. I think you will love him.

$5.50 which includes the shipping. I have

eight of him.

XXXXXXXXXX

"Holly Star" Ornaments

I made these out of wool felt, and hand painted both

the front and the back. They have wire hangers and

rusty bells for embellishment. There is a special

finish applied to preserve the paint. I think they

will make a very primitive addition to your tree.

They measure 4 1/2" High X 3 1/2" Wide.

$9.50 which includes the shipping.

This shows the front and the back.

I have eight of these.

XXXXXXXXXX

Well, I think that is enough for now. I need to do

some baking for my Garden Club Christmas Party.

So much to do - so little time!!

Many Merry Stitches,

Sandra

Stuff for Sale

2011-12-07T19:28:00.002-05:00

Good Afternoon Everyone!

I am back home but only for a short time.

Will be heading back to Richmond, this time

to help our son, Cameron, move to a new

home. We will be going on Friday and will be

either helping him or babysitting Avery

until next Wednesday. So, while I have

a few minutes, I wanted to offer you a few

good deals. Also, I want to update

my Etsy site with my new books and some

handmade items, time permitting.

All of these items are first come, first serve.

I take Paypal, Visa, MC, and personal

checks. You can call or email me your

information. Your complete email address

is needed for Paypal. If you want to use

a credit card, you can send all the information

in separate emails for security.

"Candy Container Santa"

He has a sack on his back to load him up with

whatever you want. He is 10" X 3 1/4" at

his widest point and is only $12.00 which

includes shipping. I only have one.

XXXXXXXXXX

Next is a great little Santa ornament.

I call him

"Santa Bearing Gifts"

He is going to visit both good and

bad little girls and boys because he has

sticks and candy canes. He is 8" X 3" and

is $11.50 which includes shipping.

XXXXXXXXXX

Next are these great Red Aged Glass

Bead garlands. The garland is 6'

long and is $7.50 which includes shipping.

I have four of these.

XXXXXXXXXX

I did some mini Christmas Journals, which

would make wonderful little gifts. The designs

are all "vintage" which I have aged and

decoupaged on to these tiny books. They

measure approximately 4" High X 3" Wide

The first one is my

"Holly Santa"

I have three of these. Next is

"Blue Santa".

I only have one of these.

Lastly, I have this adorable "Daddy Snowman

and Babies". I have three of these, each trimmed

differently. Please specify the trim you want -

rick rack, ribbon, torn fabric.

specify the trim you want.
"Daddy Snowman and Babies"

XXXXXXXXXX

Do you like "vintage style" Christmas ornaments?

If so, here are 20 candle clips for only $14.00

which includes shipping. These are not old (but
made like the old ones) and
do not include the candle.

XXXXXXXXXX

Last but not least, I have a great salt glaze

Santa.

He measures approximately 8" X 3 1/4".

$18.00 which includes shipping.
XXXXXXXXXX
Hope you enjoyed my little Christmas
Shoppe. I will be loading things on my
Etsy site too.
Many Merry Stitches,
Sandra

Something Free For You

2011-12-01T15:00:00.001-05:00

Good Afternoon Everyone!
I have a little something special for you
or a special something for someone else.
It will only take a little stitching time,
an expensive jar, and a special treat.
This idea came from this inspiration
piece in my collection. I found this
wonderful "vintage" jar at a fantastic
antique store in Ruckersville, Virginia.
You really must go if ever in the area. It
is fantastic. In the middle of no where
really, but well worth the trip.

Here is my interpretation. I made these in
all colors for the different reasons to have
goodies around, Christmas, Halloween,
Easter, Valentine's Day etc. Such a fun project.
"Goodies Jar Wrap"

XXXXXXXXXXXXX

"Many Merry Stitches",

Sandra

Thanksgiving Coma

2011-11-25T15:09:00.000-05:00

Good Afternoon Everyone!

We are all suffering from food comas today,

but it certainly was worth it. I was so exhausted

after cooking for mostly two days, doing a

little decorating, and all the little things you

need to do. Things like getting your serving

pieces out and ready to use, napkins ironed,

setting the table, a flower arrangement for

my big turkey soup tureen. All the things that

I traditionally do and I so love doing it all.

We had a large group all gathered together

and it was wonderful. The grandchildren

are tiny now. I don't know what we will do

when they all need a chair at the table.

Oh, well, I'll worry about that another year.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

I just have to share this precious photo.

This was the first time Avery had seen his

little cousins. It was so sweet to see how

much these little girls wanted to be with

him. They were so excited, but I think it

was too much excitement for Avery.

Just look at how little Addyson and Piper are trying

to console him. Addyson is about 2 1/2 and Piper is

about 9 months. It is unbelievable how they reacted

to him being upset. Of course, when he drops his

bottom lip, we all just melt. Cameron, our son, was the

photographer again. His timing was just perfect.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

Well, it will be back to work tomorrow for me, but

I am going to enjoy having them for one more day.

Hollis and and Paul will be leaving in the morning

and the house will feel so empty.

I hope you all enjoy the rest of the Thanksgiving

holiday.

Many Merry Stitches,

Sandra

New Stuff

2011-11-22T17:06:00.001-05:00

Good Afternoon Everyone!

I know many of you have already started preparing

for Thanksgiving. Not I!! I've just finished my

last publication for 2011 and it will be on its way

to my Automatic Shoppes today. Yeah!!

So here they are in all their Christmas glory.

Sweet little projects that can be stitched in just

a few hours. The finishing is also easy. You

know me, if it isn't simple to finish than it isn't

a Homespun Elegance project.

XXXXXXXXXXX

"MERRY BIRDIES"

$8.00

and

"Rounds 'A Plenty I - Christmas"

$9.00

This is a side view so that you can see that the design

goes all the way around.

A closeup so you can see the Amber Pearl Star

button at the top.

These designs are stitched on a 27 Count linen

banding. I used Weeks Dye Works Pearl

Cotton and "Merlot Houndstooth" felted wool

for the top and the bottom. Even a good

quality wool felt would work for the top and

bottom. We also have an Embellishment Pack

that includes one length of the linen banding

and the "Amber Pearl Star" button.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

I hope all of you have a great evening. I can now

start my Thanksgiving preparations. Lehmer and

I are so excited. We will be spending Thanksgiving

with our family and we have

two new sweet babies to add to our joy -

Avery and Piper. Piper is my sister's third little
granddaughter. We are definitely going to need a

bigger dining room table soon.
We have been so blessed and are so thankful.
XXXXXXXXXXXX
Well, no "Merry Stitches" for me tonight.
The kitchen is calling.
"Merry Stitches" to you though,
Sandra

Freebie

2011-11-20T20:38:00.000-05:00

Good Evening Everyone!

Hope everyone had a great weekend.

Hollis and I got out this weekend to do

a little Christmas shopping. We are

very grateful to Paul, Avery's Dad, for

doing a little babysitting. Proud to

report that he was pretty good, so maybe

we will be able to talk Paul into it again.

I think our main mission was finding

Avery's first Christmas outfit and we

were very successful. Cannot wait to

share pictures. He is going to be so cute.

XXXXXXXXXXXXX

It probably isn't proper for me to reissue a

"Freebie" graph that I did last year, but

because I had so few followers at that

time, I have decided to offer it again to

those who never saw it.

"BLESSINGS TO ALL"

XXX SPECIAL XXX

I have a few of these green frames left. If you

would like a frame and an Olde Brass Angel

button, the set is $19.00

(which includes shipping). I accept

personal checks, MC, Visa, and Paypal.

Just email or call me if you are interested.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

My last Christmas design will be ready in a

few days, so I will be sharing soon. I know

everyone is thinking of Thanksgiving now,

but I hope you have time for a few

"Merry Stitches."

Sandra

Some Goodies!

2011-11-17T21:07:00.000-05:00

Good Evening Everyone!

You will not believe what happened this

week. I went to Hollis' on Sunday to babysit

for Avery as usual. By early afternoon Hollis

starts feeling sick and Paul is at work and he is

also sick. We all thought they had food poisoning

from their dinner out the night before, so I wasn't

really concerned about getting sick. Besides I

had to take care of Avery.

Well, by Tuesday afternoon I am sick, so

sick that Lehmer has to come get me on

Wednesday. Anyway I am finally feeling

better. It has been a long time since I have

had an intestinal virus, and hope it will be

even longer before it happens again.

The most important thing is that Avery is

still OK.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

Wanted to share a little glimpse of

something I am working on. I hope to

get these ready in time for your gift giving.

Do you like Scherenschnitte - paper cutting?

I do and I particularly love silhouettes.

These will make lovely Christmas

decorations or just as Cupboard Hangers.

There will be other silhouettes, not just

pretty ladies.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

I ask you, is this not one of the cutest things

you have ever seen. Fat and sassy he is!!

XXXXXXXXXXXX

Thanks for taking a break from your stitching

to read my blog.

Many Merry Stitches,

Sandra

Autumn Decorating

2011-11-13T10:59:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Everyone!

It is going to be a beautiful day in Virginia, and

I am heading back to Richmond in a few minutes

to take care of Avery. I so look forward to these

few days a week with him. He is changing so

quickly and growing so much. I want the

growing to slow down a little, but I think he is

in charge of that.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Some more Autumn decorating!

This is our sweet but weird Marly. Still hanging in

there at about 15 years old.

Do we have leaves or what. There are millions

more to come since we are surrounded by woods.

If you look closely you can see where the

squirrels are snacking on my pretty pumpkin.

Next week I will

be pulling out my turkey collection. I'll have

to share that with you. Don't you love that little

squirrel in the first picture. I have had him for years and

he has appeared in many photo shots. He

is a windup toy and scoots around a bit when wound

up. Hard to believe that he still works after all of

his years. Hope I still work that well when I'm his

age. HaHa!

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thanks for all of your sweet comments about my

"Merry Birdies". They will be ready by the end

of next week. I'll be showing you the other two

publications next week too.

"Many Merry Stitches"

to all of you!

Sandra

New Stuff

2011-11-11T20:42:00.000-05:00

Good Evening Everyone!

Another beautiful Autumn day here in

Virginia. A little on the chilly side and

more than a little windy. It is snowing

leaves in our yard. I really need to take a

picture of our yard when it is in leaf

overload. Poor Lehmer, he spends

so much time trying to get rid of the

leaves. It is a thankless job, but thank

goodness for leaf blowers and that

he can blow them into our woods.

Bagging them is out of the question.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

I have had requests for a complete

viewing of my "Merry Birdies". Since

I hope to release them later next week or

the beginning of the following week, I

decided to go ahead and show them to you.

I do think they are cute and definitely a

quick stitch.

"Merry Birdies"

Also, I know many of you are starting

to think about your Christmas

shopping. With that in mind, I decided

to do a Christmas scissor fob ~

"Santa Profile".

The heart is made out of wood and I have

decoupaged it with one of my original

little paintings. Nicely aged and sealed

for durability. Waxed linen thread

is attached for your scissors.

Sorry, scissors not included!

Measures 2 5/8" high X 1 3/8" wide.

If you would like one of these, they

are $11.50, shipping included.

Just email or call. We take Visa, MC,

Paypal, money orders, and personal checks.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

Wishing you a wonderful weekend with

"Many Happy Stitches",

Sandra

What Do YOu Think?

2011-11-06T20:22:00.000-05:00

Good Evening Everyone!

It has been a beautiful day here in Virginia. My husband,

Lehmer, belongs to the Dominion Club here in

Fredericksburg. It is a social club that was organized

many years ago. They have a few delightful

get togethers each year that include us women.

The first Sunday in November is the Oyster

Roast. If you like oysters, this is the place to be.

They fix them all kinds of ways and all are delicious.

I can't do the raw ones, but any other way is fine with me.

They also have grilled tenderloin and all kinds of delicious

things to go with it. The weather was just perfect -

just cold enough to need your gloves by the end of

the afternoon.

XXXXXXXXXX

Back home now and I wanted to share with you a

design I did many years ago. The book is long out

of print. Having always loved this design, I

thought you might like to see it reprinted.

If you like Sewing Birds and the color blue,

this just might be for you. Of course, you can

make it any color you like.

I added the little stuffed pincushion. It gives

it a a little dimension. Hope you like it.

I drastically aged the fabric with coffee and

mounted it in an antique frame. Let me

know what you think.

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

Something New!!

2011-11-04T11:34:00.000-04:00

Good Early Morning!!

Thank you so much for your comments about

our Baby Chef. You are all so right. I knew

I would love being a Grandmother, but it is

impossible to describe the feelings that I have

for this child. He is such a blessing.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

Have a few things to share this morning. A little

"snippet" of something new and a reprint of an "oldie

but goodie". The "oldie" first. This book is out of print, so

I thought I would take the main design and reprint it.

I put it on the Online Show and it was my best seller.

~~~~~~~~~~

"All Hearts Come Home For Christmas"

~~~~~~~~~~

Through the years I have literally published over a

thousand designs and this is still one of my favorites.

It is always part of my Christmas decorations.

The saying touches my heart because it is so true.

~~~~~~~~~~

This new design was inspired by Avery. I didn't

have time to get his stocking design finished for

this year, but it will be coming your way in plenty

of time for next year. Of course, this doesn't

take the place of a stocking, but I did my best

for this year. Hopefully, you will have a little

one to honor with this sweet design. Of course,

you are only seeing a "snippet", but I think

you will get the idea that it will a "little"

something special to do for someone,

maybe even yourself.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Well, I must go for today. More new things

to come for the holidays. Talk to you

soon. Wishing you a great weekend

with

"Many Happy Stitches",

Sandra

Better Late Than Never

2011-11-03T16:17:00.001-04:00

Good Afternoon Everyone!

I hope you are all having a great day. I have gotten

some much needed things finished, so I'm going to

take a "coffee break" and share something adorable.

Speaking of "coffee breaks" first, every afternoon

about this time I have to relax a little and have a

small dose of caffeine. This started many years

ago and it really helps me keep going later in the

day and believe me I need all the hours I can

get in every day.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

Anyway back to my most favorite subject!

A Halloween baby that is beyond cute.

You might remember me mentioning at some point

that Avery's Daddy is Head Chef at a restaurant

in Richmond. Well, months before Avery was born,

Hollis Goggled baby chef hat, and this is what

she found.

A complete outfit with a double breasted chef's coat

and checkered pants. We stuffed the hat with

plastic bags.

Do you love the food channels like I do? If so, you are

probably familiar with The Naked Chef -

Jamie Oliver. Well, we now have our own!!

Of course, we had to have a daytime Halloween

outfit. His Granddaddy said he looked like

a convict.

You all know Faye, who has worked with me

for years. Well, she is forever giving something

wonderful to this baby. This is an adorable lion

costume, so we had to wear that one too.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

What a great time we had. I think it will be

really hard next year to top the Chef costume though.

If he ever finds out that I put his little naked

body with a huge hat on a BLOG, I may lose

the Grandmother Of The Year Award.

Oh, well, you can only get away with pictures

like that when they don't have any say in the matter.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

I have new stuff to share, so stay tuned.

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

Another Little Look

2011-10-29T12:24:00.001-04:00

Good Saturday Morning!!

Hollis and Paul wanted to take Avery to the

Pumpkin Patch today, but so much for that idea.

The weather here is just horrible, raining now

with a chance of snow. The mountains of

Virginia are definitely getting snow. I keep

trying to remind myself that it really is fall.

Here are a few of my minimalist ideas of

decorating this year. Christmas decorating

will be better - I hope.

Never did find my white pumpkins. I found

one tiny one at Walmart, can you believe that,

and being a good MOM, I gave it to Hollis.

Looks great in her bathroom.

Still hoping to find some before Thanksgiving.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

Before I get to my little peak for you, wanted to

share the most adorable hat on the most adorable

baby. Don't you think he would have been a hit at the

Pumpkin Patch? Cannot wait to share his

Halloween costume. Stay tuned for that.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Now for the reveal. This is

~~MERRY BIRDIES~~

So sweet, so cute, so prim, and so

quick. I hope you will love them.

These will be available soon with

some more "quickies" for your

Christmas decorating and giving.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

If you are in my part of the world, try to stay

dry and warm. The coffee will definitely be

flowing today. I have to finish my last two

publications to go out next week and move on

to the next.

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

New Stuff

2011-10-22T12:14:00.000-04:00

Good Morning Everyone!

Hope all is well in your part of the world. This

is a really busy day for me and before I get started,

I wanted to share with you my two new publications.

If all goes well, they will ship next week.

Hope you like them.

"CHRISTMAS WON'T BE CHRISTMAS. . ."

I know you will all recognize the origin of this special

quote from Little Women, one of my most favorite

stories and movies of all time. I have always loved

this quote and wanted to do something unique to use

in my Christmas decorating. This will occupy a special

spot on my sofa with all of my other Christmas pillows.

All the fancy magazines talk about the packaging being

part of the gift, well this time the packaging could be

the gift as well. I made the pillow out of Weeks felted

wool and the ribbon is just something from the

craft store that just happens to match the color

of the cross stitched gifts. I may have a little of

this to sell if you are interested. It is stitched on

Old Mill Java with a variety of fibers. Would be

quite special over one for an ornament.

Next is

"QUAKER REJOICE ORNAMENT"

This continues my heart ornament collection. So simple

and elegant at the same time. It is stitched on 36 Count

"Wheat" from R & R Reproductions, with a Stitch

Count of 39 Wide X 69 High. The brass charm is

included.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

Just so you know, I will have another heart ornament,

some Christmas birdies, and Christmas Silhouettes in

the coming weeks. Can't wait to share.

Love Christmas designing so much.

Wishing you a beautiful weekend with
Many Happy Stitches,
Sandra

A New Little Something!

2011-10-20T16:02:00.000-04:00

Good Afternoon Everyone!

I hope you are all having a grand day. We are

having a gray and windy day with leaves

blowing everywhere. Fall has definitely

arrived in Virginia and I love it. I haven't had

much time for fall decorating and it is driving

me crazy. I so love this time of year. Have

yet to find a white pumpkin or bittersweet.

What in the world am I going to do. I may

have to paint one and age it.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

Just wanted to let you know that the Online

Show is up and running. If you would like to

take a peak just go to Online Show.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

Thought you might want to see a little snippet

of two of my new designs. If all goes well

they be released next week.

CHRISTMAS WON'T BE CHRISTMAS

and

REJOICE

"Rejoice" continues the Heart Ornament

series that I started several years ago.

I'll let you see the complete designs in a

few more days. Just a few more finishing

touches to go.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

Now for something really cute and special!

I know I'm being obnoxious again, but cannot

help myself.

Have a great rest of the day with

"Many Happy Stitches",

Sandra

I'm Still Here!

2011-10-15T17:46:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone!

I cannot believe that it has been almost a month

since my last post. I guess you all thought I had

gone to Richmond for good. Well, I just about

have for various reasons. Avery went to day

care for his first three days and what happens -

he gets a cold with a slight fever, etc. Poor

Hollis and Paul, welcome to parenthood. Anyway,

he is better now, so I came home Wednesday

and have been working on the Online Show

and trying to catch up. We had to get things

shipped to Attic Needlework for a Trunk Show.

If you are in the Meza, Arizona area, many of my

models will be there for about a month.

If you have never read a newsletter from Attic

Needlework, then you are in for a real treat.

Please go to

www.atticneedlework.com

You won't be sorry!!!!!

XXXXXXXXXXX

I was so shocked when I opened an email from

Terri Stanley and saw this fabulous display of my

"HALLOWEEN YEAR" collection.

Everyone of them is finished in her own special

way. She definitely has a flare for finishing.

Thank you Terri for sharing this with me!!!!!

XXXXXXXXXXXX

Well, I have to get back to the Online Show. I still

have a lot to do and the deadline for everything to

be in place is Monday. Before I go back to Richmond

(I am taking care of Avery on Mondays and Tuesdays)

I hope to show you a little glimpse of new designs.

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

New Stuff!

2011-09-23T12:59:00.000-04:00

Good Afternoon Everyone!

I want to share

with you the last of the three new publications

that were shipped to shoppes and distributors

a few days ago.

"Be Truly Thankful"

What a wonderful time of the year and it is fast

approaching. Just enough time though to stitch

this quick design and have it ready for your

Fall displays. Everyone at the Sullivan household

is even more thankful this year. Cannot wait to

see little Avery at our Thanksgiving table.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

Also, wanted to share with you that I have a design

in both the new publications from

~~ Just Cross Stitch ~~

Halloween Collection Book

and

the 20ll Christmas Ornaments Magazine.

The pre-finished stocking was designed

and made by Olde Colonial Designs.

They should be available at your shoppe.

If not, you may get them from me.

Both of these publications are the bargain of

the year. Filled with dozens of unique

designs for your stitching pleasure. You

won't be disappointed!

XXXXXXXXXXXXXX

I hope you are having a great day. I am playing

catch up around here ~ printing publications, working

on new ones, working on some special things

for the Online Show in October, etc. Never a dull

moment. I hope to have time this weekend to

update my ETSY site. Many of you have asked

where the new things are. I just haven't had

time to do it. If you want something though

all you have to do is a Conversation on the

ETST site or call/email me. It is never a

problem.

Be back soon.

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

Time To Share

2011-09-19T21:23:00.002-04:00

Good Evening Everyone!

Just wanted to let you know that

Cinnamon Stick Santa XXIII

"Such Delight"

is about to be shipped.

~~~~~~~~~~

Here he is along with a special

bag to hold your delights!!

Hope you like my Cinnamon Stick Santa.

I cannot believe that I have been doing

this series for 23 years. Boy am I old.

So many Christmases ~ So many delights!

Many Merry Stitches,

Sandra

I'm Back From The Beach!

2011-09-18T21:32:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone!

I hope everyone had as wonderful a week as I have

had. Building memories with my precious

grandson, Hollis, Paul, and Lehmer will be forever

cherished. We played with Avery, ate wonderful food,

played with Avery, sat on the beach, played with Avery,

put together a complicated puzzle, played with

Avery, sat on the deck looking at the ocean and

watching beautiful sunsets. My only regret is that

it had to end. I do have wonderful pictures to

show you. I will only bore you with a few

special ones though.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Anyway I am back and I have to get back to

reality and that means I have to finish my new

designs and get them shipped this week.

Stockings 'A Plenty I

This is one of the three that will ship this week. The

stockings are pre-finished for your stitching pleasure.

Note the tiny ornament tucked between the top

two stockings - another option for the designs.

I'll post pictures of the other two publications

sometime this week.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Nice to visit with you again.

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

Too Quiet Here

2011-09-02T15:14:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone!

It is too quiet here. Hollis and Avery went back

to Richmond yesterday evening. They finally got

their electricity back after the hurricane. Such

mixed emotions. Of course I wanted them to have

electricity, but I sure hated to see them go. I also know Paul

was anxious to see his little boy and Hollis. So I had to

let them go. Faye is off today and Lehmer is playing golf,

so I am here alone. The last few days were very hectic also

because Faye and I were trying to get my Trunk Show

together to go to Notforgotten Farm. Lori's "Gathering" is

September 17th. I hope some of you get to go.

It will be wonderful.

~~~~~~~~~~

I need to thank all of you again for your continued

comments about the baby, the hurricane, the earthquake.

I hope I won't be adding any more weather events to

the list any time soon. But, there is another hurricane

brewing and our vacation at the beach could be

affected. I sure hope not, we have so been looking

forward to this. It will be Avery's first beach trip!!

~~~~~~~~~~

Thought you might like a little look at some new

designs in the works.

The first is

"Be Truly Thankful".

We have so many things to

be thankful for this year, plus I truly love Thanksgiving.

and

one of the designs in my two stocking publications.

Quick and easy, plus you can get the stocking

already made. There is also a red stocking. Of course,

they make adorable ornaments on their own.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Another picture of my favorite topic of conversation.

Sorry for the blurriness.

Hope all of you have a wonderful holiday

weekend. I know there are many people

in our country still suffering from Hurricane

Irene. I hope everything possible is being

done to ease their troubles.

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

What A Week!!

2011-08-27T14:53:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone,

I usually begin by saying Good Morning, Afternoon,

or Evening, but not today. I'm just hoping we get

through this day without too many problems.

Haven't we had a week!! Earthquakes and now

a hurricane. Hollis has quite a story to write

in Avery's baby book. In the month of his birth

he has had quite a few experiences. She and I

had just gotten back from taking Avery to the DR.

I was on the telephone with Faye at home when she

starting yelling something and then the house

starting shaking. Hollis said "It's an earthquake,"

grabbed the baby, and we went out on the deck.

What an awful experience. I never want to go

through that again. In 2003 there was an

earthquake in Richmond, so she knew what

she was feeling. According to her the one in

2003 was nothing compared to this one. Two

days later, an aftershock woke me up about 1:00

am. Hollis and Paul were in baby comas and felt

nothing. Nothing since then, thank heavens.

The earthquake was stronger in Fredericksburg.

I had pictures off the wall, things fell off of shelves,

the door on my linen press opened and some of

my glass items fell out and broke. It certainly

could have been worse though. I don't know

how people in California deal with that threat.

I'm back home for a while and am in serious

need of more time to get all of my new

designs finished. I want to share with you

my almost complete Cinnamon Stick Santa.

There is another design in this publication, which

I will show you later this week, I hope. Plus,

I will share some of the designs from my

Christmas Stocking publications.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

A little parting picture of Avery? Can you believe

how much he has changed. He has finally gotten

back to his birth weight, plus a few ounces, and

grown 2" in length. Gosh, I hate to leave Richmond.

I miss him so much.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hope to get some much needed stitching done

during this hurricane.

"Many Happy Stitches"

to all of you,

Sandra

Thank You

2011-08-21T08:22:00.000-04:00

Good Morning Everyone!

I know it is really early on a Sunday morning, but

we are preparing to leave for a short visit to see

Hollis and Avery. Cannot wait to get there.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

I had to take a few minutes to thank all of you

wonderful people out there for your care, concern,

well wishes, congratulations, and heart felt comments.

You will never know how much it has meant to

me. I read every one of them, many with tears in

my eyes. It is such an emotional time for me and

my family. We have waited a long time for this

little one.

Once again, you are so appreciated.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

I'm sorry I could not answer everyone of them

individually, but I'm sure you understand that I have been

otherwise occupied. Faye has been here some of the

time, but if we have not answered a question, missed an

order, etc., please do not hesitate to resend it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

I promise to get back to stitching soon, in fact

I will stitch on the way to Richmond. Must

hurry and finish my Cinnamon Stick Santa

and my Halloween Rounds 'A Plenty.

I hope you have a joyous day. I know I am.

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

Family News

2011-08-20T21:53:00.001-04:00

Good Evening Everyone!

I hope all is well with everyone. It has been such
a long time since I visited with you. Things are
doing fairly well with Hollis and Avery. There
have been a few bumps in the road, but things are getting
better. I am back in Fredericksburg for a little visit only,

so I needed to touch base with all of you.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

If you will bear with me, I want to brag a little

about our son, Cameron. Here is a picture of the

proud uncle with baby Avery.

Recently, someone found his photography on

his Flickr account and one of his pictures was

shown on Fox News. Because of that, a

gallery in New Jersey contacted him about

a showing of his work. How exciting

for him. He has thought about trying to sell

his work at art shows, but just never got around

to it. It forced him to think about pricing,

framing, etc. A little stressful when you have

never done anything like this before.

Anyway, I just wanted to share. This is the

picture that was on Fox News - Air France

descending over the beach at St. Martin.

If you would like to read more about the Gallery

Showing and his other works, go to

http://galleryatriversedge.com/future.html

When you get to the Gallery page, click on Future

Exhibits and then on Cameron Sullivan.

Here is another one of my favorites ~

We are so excited and happy for him.

Way to go Cameron!!!!!!

XXXXXXXXXXXX

I promise to be back soon with many new

designs. Christmas is coming so we must

get our Christmas stitching started.

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

Avery - One Week

2011-08-13T13:38:00.001-04:00

Avery - One Week, a photo by Angry Lemur on Flickr.

Little Avery Is Here

2011-08-04T20:13:00.000-04:00

Good Evening Everyone!

With much relief and happiness, I want to announce

that we have been blessed with a healthy and adorable

grandson. Avery was born August 2nd. Both Hollis

and Avery are doing beautifully. Unfortunately,

things didn't happen easily. Hollis had to have a

C-section, so her recovery will be a little longer.

I want to take this time to thank you so much for

all of your well wishes over the months and for

listening to me and looking at all the things I

made for this little guy. It has meant so much to

me that there are so many of you out there who

think about us and care enough to write. It

touches my heart. You are all wonderful.

XXXXXXXXXX

Now that he is here I will be gone for a little

while, spending time in Richmond helping

Hollis recover and do whatever I can to help.

Time permitting, I may share some of my happiness

with you, if you don't mind. Faye will be manning

the telephones and shipping. Unfortunately, I'm the

one who does all of the printing, so some orders

may be delayed. I hope you will understand.

I'll be in touch,

Sandra

New Stuff!

2011-07-26T19:16:00.003-04:00

Good Evening Everyone!

I'm beginning to feel like the person who

"cries wolf", but after another visit to the

Doctor today, there just cannot be many more

days left. Hollis' due date is July 27th -

tomorrow.

Consequently, I have decided to release my

last two designs in "A Halloween Year" a

few weeks early. Along with that will be

"Haunted Hill House". I think we are all

thinking cool Autumn days anyway thanks

to the incredible heat wave that we are

suffering through.

These publications will start shipping

tomorrow to our AUTOS and our

distributors.
XXXXXXXXXXXX

"Haunted Hill House"
Features my new Brown-Dot
frame and Olde Brass "Star Pumpkin"
button. Both sold separately.
"Spooky"

Features my "Ghost" charm and
Olde Brass "Star" button. Both
sold separately.

"Not I"

Features my "Pumpkin" brass charm
and Olde Brass "Star" button. Both
sold separately.
XXXXXXXXXXXX
I hope you see something you like. I really
hate to see the "Halloween Year" come to
a close. It has been a fun collection. I will
be starting a new collection sometime in
the coming months, but I haven't decided
on the theme yet.
Back to work to get these designs ready for
shipment. Hope you have a great evening.
Many Happy Stitches,
Sandra

A Winner and Another Peek!

2011-07-25T19:53:00.000-04:00

Good Evening Everyone!

First of all I want to thank all of you who took

your valuable time to comment on my Blog.

So happy that you like my designs well

enough to want one.

So here is the winner ~~

Ronda!!

I will be emailing you in just a few minutes.

XXXXXXXXXX

I am working very hard to finish my

CINNAMON STICK SANTA

for this year. He is not one of the free-standing

Santas of old. I haven't been able to muster up

the energy in recent years to tackle another one.

This one is really different from all the others.

Don't you think we all need a change now and then.

Hope you are intrigued by what you can see.

XXXXXXXXXXXX

Many Merry Stitches,

Sandra

Sneak Peek

2011-07-23T20:05:00.001-04:00

Good Evening Everyone!

Well, it is Saturday night and I am still in

Fredericksburg. So what am I doing, working

as much as I can before I'm in Richmond.

It is almost time to publish the last two designs

in "A Halloween Year". This has been such

a fun collection to do. It's a little stressful to

commit to something when you are promising

to design something specifically each month,

but I made it and am proud of the collection.

So, sometime in August these two designs

will be available.

My annual Cinnamon Stick Santa is next

on my long list of things to work on. So,

off to find my needle. Have a great night.

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

Sneak Peek

2011-07-21T21:26:00.001-04:00

Good Evening Everyone!

Not quite done, but enough to give you a

glimpse at the stitching and a peek at the

frame.

"Haunted Hill House"

for your Halloween stitching pleasure.

I will be releasing this along with the

last two designs in the

"A Halloween Year"

collection. A Sneak Peak will be

available for them really soon.

That's all for tonight.

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

A Give Away

2011-07-20T16:56:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone!!

I'm still in Fredericksburg. No baby news yet,

so I thought I would do a "Give Away". You

must be a follower and leave me a comment.

The winner will be picked from the comments

made by Sunday. Just be aware that if I am

not here, the announcement may be a little

later coming, but I'm sure you will all

understand.

Of my three 20ll Annual Ornaments I will

let the winner pick the one they want.

To refresh your memory, here they are.

"Jingle - Jingle" Sampler Ornament

"Peace and Cheer" Santa Ornament

"Snow Babies" Snowman Ornament

XXXXXXXXXXXX

Good luck everyone!! Maybe thinking

about Christmas ornaments will make us

feel a little cooler.

Many Merry Stitches,

Sandra

Coming Soon!

2011-07-17T20:00:00.000-04:00

Good Evening Everyone!

Hope all of you had a great weekend. We got

back from Richmond this afternoon with a new

computer in tow. Thanks to my very talented

son, everything has been transferred to the new

computer, so we will be up and running tomorrow.

It certainly makes life interesting when two

computers decide to stop working in about

the same week. Thank goodness the one I

use for graphing and text was fixable -

also thanks to Cameron.

We made a quick stop at Hollis' on the way

home. No news there. Still waiting anxiously.

XXXXXXXXXX

While I had a few minutes, I thought I would

show you what will be available in about two

weeks.

"Cradle Of Christmas Joy"

Baby's lst Ornament

Dedicated to Avery

Note that I changed out the toy

soldier for a doll. Now you can

stitch this for a little girl as well.

"Crows 'A Plenty"

This design was adapted from an

applique pattern that I did a few years

ago. If any of you are interested in seeing

it, just let me know.

Hope all of you had a wonderful weekend. Ours

was busy, busy as usual. I'll be in touch.

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

A Finish

2011-07-16T10:14:00.001-04:00

Good Morning Everyone!

Just wanted to share with you a wonderful

finish of my "Delivering Liberty."

Carol Inglis did a beautiful job of

stitching and framing.

To read her delightful blog, go to
http://stitchingdream.blogspot.com/
Hope you all have a wonderful weekend. I
am still putting the trim on
"Crows 'A Plenty". It is a long way
around this one.
Many Happy Stitches,
Sandra

More Sneak Peeks

2011-07-15T21:28:00.001-04:00

Good Evening Everyone!!

I'm beginning to feel a little panicked. Hollis

has been told by her DR. that she can go any day

now, and when that happens I will be out of here

and I do not know when I will be back. So you

can only imagine what kind of dilemma I have.

I'm trying to prioritize all of my new things. Do I

finish graphing, finish stitching, send things away to

be stitched, photograph what has already been

stitched, or just call it a day and start over tomorrow.

Then I think, I might not have tomorrow.

So I decided to write to all of you and show you

a few more new things that are almost ready.

So, here goes ~~~~

"CROWS 'A PLENTY"

and

"Haunted Hill House"

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
A FEW ANNOUNCEMENTS
~~If any of you live anywhere near Alexandria, Virginia,
there is a wonderful shoppe -- In Stitches.
You really must go sometime, but I especially want
you to go now, because I have a Trunk Show going on.
Hope you can make it.
~~JUST CROSS STITCH has a Special Edition soft
cover book about to be released, full of great
Halloween designs. I was honored to be asked to
contribute a design to this publication. It should
be a great addition to the stashes of all
Halloween lovers.
~~And, last but not least, Lori from Notforgotten Farm
has asked me to send her a Trunk Show for her
Gathering Of Primitive Friends. This will be held
at her farm, Saturday, September 17th. A goode
time should be had by all.
~~"Fancy Fridays" are going to be postponed for a
while, just until Avery arrives and everything
settles down a little. My mind just cannot deal
with an additional thing.
I hope all of you have a wonderful weekend. I
am heading upstairs to make "Crows 'A Gathering"
into a pillow. It is going to be trimmed with that
wonderful new chenille trim from
R & R Reproductions. It is just the perfect color.
Many Happy Stitches,
Sandra

Sneak Peek

2011-07-12T20:14:00.001-04:00

Good Evening Everyone!!

Just wanted everyone to know, just in case

they have a need, that there will be a

"Baby's First Christmas"

ornament.

I wonder why I would be doing such a thing!!!

Thought I might share with you a little

peek into something I have been working on.

It won't be long now. When he gets here,

you can see the rest. Note that there will
be an ornament for a little girl too.
~~~~~~~~~~~~

So many things to do, so little time left.

When Avery arrives, I won't be at

Homespun Elegance for a while. Still

don't know how we are going to cope

with that situation, but it will work
out somehow.

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

Size Clarification

2011-07-11T13:08:00.000-04:00

Good Afternoon everyone!

I had some emails wanting to know about the

size of my "Autumn Rounds 'A Plenty".

They are about 1 1/2" high and 1 1/2" in

diameter. To show you better, I photographed

one of them with a quarter. I think you

can now see how little and cute they will be.

I used linen banding, but you can simply use

linen of your choice with the edges pressed

down.

Still working on the Annual Ornaments, so I must

get back to work.

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

New Stuff

2011-07-10T14:05:00.002-04:00

Good afternoon Everyone!

Wanted to give you a little "Sneak Peak" of a

cute Halloween/Autumn project that will be

coming your way soon.

~~ Autumn Rounds 'A Plenty I ~~

These can hang from your Halloween tree or

anyplace you want a little Autumn/Halloween

decorating. Quick and fun. No

need for anything but your stitching fingers.

No machines allowed!!
These little ornaments are only 1 1/2" high and
1 1/2" in diameter. Tiny little things!

Watch for Christmas ones later in the summer.

Hope all of you are having a great summer

afternoon. I am spending mine at the computer,

trying to finish up my Annual Christmas

Ornaments. They should be on the way to

your favorite shoppe this week. If you cannot

find them, please let me know.

I'll be showing them in their finished

glory soon.

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

My Garden

2011-07-06T21:28:00.001-04:00

Good Evening Everyone!

Thought I would share pictures of my

garden before the dreaded Virginia heat does

away with all of my flowers. Most of my

flowers in the borders are perennials, so I

have blooms here in there as most do not

bloom all summer. Weeding is something I

really need to do, but between being too

busy and too hot, everything is really looking

a little haggard.

Show and tell for today is over. Back to my
stitching.
Many Happy Stitches,
Sandra

ALMOST READY!!

2011-07-05T18:12:00.002-04:00

GOOD EVENING EVERYONE!!

So many of you have been asking about my

~~2011 Annual Ornaments ~~

that I've decided to show them to you.

They are not made into ornaments yet, but

that shouldn't matter to you. I will let you

know that they will be trimmed with

R & R Reproductions' new hand-dyed

chenille trims. I anxiously await the arrival

of one of the colors needed. I think you

will love this trim. Oh happy day!!

No more braiding DMC floss as a trim.

Remember, all of these will include the

appropriate embellishment.

"Jingle Jingle" Sampler Ornament

"Peace and Cheer" Santa Ornament

"Snow Babies" Snowman Ornament

XXXXXXXXXX

I hope you see something you will want

to add to your Christmas tree. It is always

such a joy to do these ornaments. It is

a tradition at Homespun Elegance.

In the near future I hope to add to this

Christmas tradition. Stayed tuned!!

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

HAPPY 4TH

2011-07-04T09:30:00.000-04:00

Good Morning!!

"FREEDOM HOUSE"

Wouldn't it be nice if the whole world

could look this peaceful. Hoping your

little spot in the world is and

wishing all of you a great July 4th.

~~~~~~~~~~

I started cooking some things last night in

anticipation of going to Hollis' for a

little celebration. Not too much celebrating

going on for someone who is 9+months

pregnant. Plus, if that wasn't enough, she

has been suffering with a horrible cold/

sinus infection for over a week. A little

better this am, so we are heading down.

Cameron is coming too. So great to

get together. Unfortunately, Paul is working

and Ashley is in Charlotte visiting friends

and family. We'll miss them.

The usual picnic fare, nothing is on my

eternal diet, but diets go out the window

on holidays. I splurged and made an

old fashion peach cobbler. Nothing like

the smell of butter coming from the oven.

I'm having a Paula Dean moment.

~~~~~~~~~~

I'll be stitching on Christmas designs on

my trip to Richmond. It takes about an hour,

so I'll get a little bit done. Wishing you

Many Happy Stitches too,

Sandra

FANCY FRIDAY

2011-07-01T12:56:00.000-04:00

Good Afternoon Every!

I cannot believe it is already the afternoon. Today

is suppose to be a designing day for me. I have

all of these drawings to convert to graphs and

the day is slipping away from me. I am really in

panic mode. The list is growing of things to do

and the days are slipping away before the baby

is here. I know me, once he is here, work is

going to be very hard. I need to get FOCUSED ~~

Before I head to the basement and the computer,

here is my offering for "Fancy Friday".

XXXXXXXXXX

"SUMMER TREATS APPLIQUE"

I made this pillow a while ago. It is based on the

cross stitch version, which is available as a pattern.

One day I might get around to publishing it as an

applique pattern, but for now I want to offer it

for sale. It is made out out Weeks Dye Works'

hand-dyed felted wool. The back is out of the

same wool. It is embellished with several of my

Olde Brass "Butterfly" buttons and my"Tiny Black"

buttons. Colonial Knots were used for the crows'

eyes and the watermelon seeds. The pillow measures

10" X 8 1/2".

$40.00 plus $5.00 shipping.

If you are interested, just email me. I take Paypal,

Visa, MC, money orders, and personal checks.

Have a great weekend everyone. I'm heading to

the computer now. Wish me luck!

Sandra

Birthday Wishes

2011-06-30T18:07:00.000-04:00

Good Evening Everyone!!

All of you who have known Homespun Elegance

for a long time, know Faye. She has worked with

me forever. She is the backbone of everything

here. I couldn't produce all of my designs

without Faye. She stitches, proofs publications,

does all the billing, shipping, listening to me,

planning with me, etc. I could go on forever but

you get the picture.

Faye's birthday is is July 2. She won't be

here that day, so we had a little celebration

today. Join with me in wishing Faye a

wonderful birthday. I am not at liberty to

divulge her age. That will remain our

secret. She is younger than me and I

don't like that, but what can I do.

I cannot take credit for the cake, but it certainly was

good. A pedestal cake plate and a sweet rose

dress it up and hopefully make up for my lack

of cooking.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, FAYE. I WISH

YOU MANY, MANY MORE HAPPY

AND HEALTHY YEARS.

LOVE, SANDRA

July 4th Offer

2011-06-29T15:22:00.000-04:00

Good Afternoon Everyone!

I've been going through stuff in my storage unit/

warehouse, the upstairs in my garage, my

little shed, and my basement ~~

all of which are filled with stuff left

from my shoppe. We have been closed about

2 1/2 years now. It does not seem possible.

But what seems even more impossible is that

I haven't gotten rid of all of this stuff. I am still

paying rent on the warehouse space and that

has to stop. This is silly. So, in my spare time,

and who knows how much spare time I can

possibly have, I want to start having a

HOMESPUN ELEGANCE YARD SALE

every now and then. This will be a random

event, but every now and then I will offer

you something at a really good price and

I hope I will find someone who wants it.

Today will be a

4th of July Offer.

I have several of these prints. They are

from the original watercolor painting that

I did.

Each print is $6.00 and if you want a frame

to go with it, the total for the two is $34.00.

I will not put the print in the frame, you will

have to do that. The print will have an

applied finish, so you do not have to have

glass to cover it.

The print measures 5" X 8".

This is a special price on the frame, only

offered with this print and

does not include shipping.

XXXXXXXXXX

This design is also available in cross stitch.

PATRIOTIC LANDSCAPE

Just email me if you are interested. I take Paypal,

personal checks, Visa, and MC.

Hope everyone is having a great day. Must get back

to designing now, so I will talk to you later.

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra

Thank You

2011-06-28T10:13:00.000-04:00

Good Morning Everyone!

This is a picture I forgot last night. My

sister, Carla, crocheted this beautiful baby

blanket for Avery.

Thank you for your wonderful comments both

on the blog and the emails that I am receiving.

Hollis had a vision of what she wanted. It took

work on her part to find everything, but she "did

good". Some of you asked where she got things.

The rug and the prints came from the internet.

I agree, the rug was just the finishing touch she was

looking for. The prints are so cute and she just put

them in great big white frames with a mat. So a

little print became something special.

The old corner cupboard she bought years ago

for hardly any money. All it needed was a new

coat of paint. The cute little table beside the

chair was Paul's and he agreed to let us paint

that too. The chair was a find at IKEA, as

well as the curtains. If you want beyond

reasonably priced curtains that is the place to

go. That great mirror came from Hobby Lobby.

Hollis is a shopper and a bargain hunter

like her mom. We have fun looking for a deal.

Anyway, thanks again.

Sandra

Avery's Stuff

2011-06-27T21:54:00.001-04:00

Good Evening Everyone!

Some time ago I promised an update on the things

I have been making for Avery and his nursery.

Well, I think the nursery is finished. We have had

the most wonderful time planning his nursery and

making it all happen. Now, all we need is Avery.

Hollis is due 4 weeks from today, and according to

her, not a moment too soon. Me too, I just want to

meet this little guy.
~~~~~~~~~~

Here are some of my projects for Avery.
Everywhere you see something that had to be sewn
by machine, I have to thank my wonderful friend Ethel.
I did all of the hand work and then she put it together
for me.

Three little bears made out of a sample of decorator

fabric. The colors were just perfect.

I cut all of the birds from wonderful scrap booking

papers and hung them from a branch from our woods.
When the fan is on they move just slightly. They
have different papers on each side, so hopefully
he will be fascinated by them.

The fabric Hollis chose for his room has tiny butter cream

dots. I used them as my guide and did rows of

Colonial Knots within the outline stitched "A".

Then I hand quilted the three layers together. It was

my first quilt.

The receiving blanket is reversible flannel,

with polka dots on one side and stripes on the

other. An outline stitch was used for his name.

Hollis found this neat rack, but of course the finish

just wouldn't do. So I used the wall paint and rubber

stamped the rest.

The stool was so much fun to do. I am thinking of
doing this as a cross stitch pattern. What do you think?

And here is his room. A real labor of love.

Sasha., Hollis' cat, loves his room, but will

she love Avery!! I think we may have a

jealous cat on our hands. The beautiful dust

ruffle and sheet were made by Ethel.

Another view.

Here is the top of the sweet armoire that Hollis found.
Isn't the detailing great? When
she bought it the finish was white with pink feet.
Needless to say, it had to be painted.
Hope you enjoyed my little tour. Not exactly cross
stitch related, but now you know why I haven't had as
many new designs as usual.
I'll be back with cross stitch next time.
Many Happy Stitches,
Sandra

All Gone

2011-06-25T17:18:00.000-04:00

Good Afternoon Everyone,

Thank you so much ~

all the boxes are SOLD!!

Many Happy Stitches,

Sandra