LODY'S CREATIONS: A Stitcher's Journey From The Heartland

Beading Daily Necklace Swap

2010-03-23T16:16:00.002-05:00

Need I say more that I was busy beading the last couple of months! Well, not only I was beading, I also joined my first beadwork exchange. My partner is Melinda from Alaska, who's into bright colors. I found some striking beads in my stash so I concentrated on them... and here's what I came out with.

Necklace and Earrings Set for Melinda of Alaska

Techniques: tubular peyote and stringing

Materials: freshwater pearls, turquoise gemstones and seed beads

My sendee partner is Lois from Utah and she made me this fabulous piece! I love it and had to wear it once I got it. I seldom do wirework in the past, but I can see myself wireworking in the near future.

Necklace from Lois of Utah

Technique: basic wirework

Materials: Mother of Pearls, bicones, and freshwater pearls

And another BD friend made this commissioned works for me. I'm planning to use them on a special project so stay tune. Made of sterling silver and copper wires.

Have a great Tuesday all!

Christmas Pines...

2010-03-21T14:24:00.002-05:00

... for 2010 EGA Heartland Fall Seminar! I stitched more models so they can be displayed at the upcoming 2010 EGA Heartland Spring Seminar. I thought it would be fun to use different fabrics, fibers and colors. Moreso, I'm making companion pieces as included in my proposal was how to finish other fiber-filled sewing accessories. Further details for the first stitched piece was posted here. Notice that I added a gold-tone daisy and pearl at the center of roof on the recent models.

So there you go, since the contract is with me already, I can now announce that I'll be teaching a half day class at the Fall Seminar on October. Mississipi River Valley Chapter will be sponsoring the said event... will talk about further details later on. I was extremely excited when I recieved the invitation, and I can't wait for it to come! I love the fact that I'll be able to spend time with fellow stitchers, and talk about our needlwork passion.

I started making "korona" (a Tagalog term which means crown) pincushion last year so I thought it would be great to make a new series of them.

Another good news I wanna share is that I was invited to be the Guest Speaker and teacher at a local EGA chapter on next year's anniversary! It's also a gathering I can't wait to partake. It's a dream come true for me to be able to teach my love of 3D hand finishing.

Also, to other EGA chapters (which I will mention the chapter names when the right time comes), thanks to all of you for including one of my works in your upcoming workshops. I'm in the process of finishing more on-site and off-site exclusive teaching pieces aside from the ones you already saw. Please extend your patience with me as I try to accomodate all your requests. Slowly but surely as the saying goes... I still want to do 100% of the work on my models... from designing to stitching (and sometimes a lil' frogging) to finishing. I'm so humble with your requests and can't wait to see your completed pieces.

And lastly, I finally managed to finish more models for TGOSM... and want to apologize sincerely to Kirsten for taking these models to reach her... and very thankful for the break. I know it's been quite a while but I can't wait to share new finishing ideas.

I look forward to a great and busy stitching week! I hope you do too!

Nature's Beauty Bracelet And Earrings Set

2010-03-16T14:12:00.003-05:00

For instant gratification, I strung some beads on a long flexi-wire while watching the night news and ended up with this bracelet. Though when DH saw it, he's not sold with the idea of a chunky blue stone which for me is the focal point. Anyway, I might re-string it and replace the blue stone. About 8" and is made of fire-polished, gemstones, turquoise, green jade and iris seed beads.

Should you have suggestions, I would love to hear them. Thanks again for dropping by!

Cellini Necklace In Progress

2010-03-05T13:55:00.003-06:00

I find my mathematical ability is put into good used whenever I'm doing a bead stitching project. Same goes whenever I finish a 3D stitched piece! For me, beadweaving is as calming as counted thread embroidery.

Here's what I pictured this piece in my mind, but during the execution, I didn't find it appealing. The proportion is too off! I had to dismantle it to say the least.

The 2 segments are a wee bit over 7" so I thought of using each segment as focal point of a necklace and bracelet to make a set. But that didn't worked out for me too so I had to consider other options again.

I'm considering this but again, I think the pendant is too small. I'm also on a look out of big stone pendant that will match the colors of the E beads.

And my last option is to make a flower pendant out of these 1" size stones. I'm tied up at the moment therefore the project will have to wait for a while... or maybe a long while!

Thanks for dropping by all! Don't forget to leave a feedback should you have any suggestion for this piece. I would really appreciate it!

More Jewelries For A Good Cause

2010-02-28T14:58:00.004-06:00

I hope you guys are not tired yet with my jewelries. I know I've made so much of them already, but I wanna finish as much as I can so I can sell some of them and donate the proceeds to the needy kids back home. There's these 3 siblings in the neighborhood I grew up wherein their father has been diagnosed with severe diabetes. He used to work in the construction and his family was doing pretty good until his sickness. While I was there, I found out that his big toe was infected and had to be cut. It has been months since and it's not healing, and the infection is getting up to his leg. I was told by my parent and siblings recently that his leg might be cut too. It just break my heart hearing this... They don't have anybody to turn to as their relatives can barely support their daily needs as well.

For me, the worst part in the situation is that the children has to suffer too. The eldest among the 3 siblings is in junior HS and is currently living at her maternal grandparents (which can barely survive too). The second is in 5th grade and almost didn't able to enroll last year... there's a big possibilty she won't be able to this year unless somebody will help them out. The youngest who's 6 years old while I was there last year, haven't been to school.:( Despite the fact that the girl really wanna go. The enrollment won't be 'til June so I'm planning to set-up a jewelry store for my beadworks to help these siblings. I asked my sister to take a picture of the siblings next time the eldest is there so you can see them. I'm leaning towards having a silent auction for my pieces but nothing is finalize yet.

Anyway, here's a necklace with beaded beads and spiral peyote as focal point. Made of glass pearls, seed and E beads with toggle and clasp closure.

I enjoy putting this bracelet together and the dangling earrings with lever back are fun to make. Again, the bracelet has spiral peyote strip as focal point. Made of pink jade gemstone, magnetic hematite, silver findings, seed and E beads.

I think I'll gonna keep this bracelet as I don't have any pink in my personal collection. Made of pink jade, glass and seed beads. It's a little over 8" and fits like a cuff on my wrist.

These 2 bracelets has matching earrings and they're for my 7 and 2 yo nieces back home. I used spiral weave on the left and St. Petersburg stitch on the right. Made of seed beads with loop and pearl closures.

DH wasn't impress with this necklace but I love it. It can be worn as single or double strands... both ends of the inner link has lobster clasp therefore it's detacheable. Made of Mother-of-pearl, seed beads and freshwater pearls.

And lastly, here's another set of earrings I also made for my friend's daughter. Made of glass pearls and crystal spacers with lever back earrings.

Thanks for dropping by everybody!

Still Talking About Beading

2010-02-15T13:59:00.001-06:00

As my bead stash increased tremendously, I knew I had to do some re-organization to make my life a lot easier, or should I say to save time when I need to look for a specific bead item. But first, I wanna show some of my recent purchases... freshwater pearls and crystals. These are just about 1/3 of what I got.

Bless DH heart for getting me containers. LOL I think I now have about 20 of these and I love them! They really come handy and serve their purpose very well. I just need to label them and am done. I use them for my focal beads, pearls, cabs and findings.

As for the seed beads (11's, 8's, 6's), I relied on sterilite clear boxes for storage. Whenever I open a new package, I simply transfer them on a 3"x4" ziplock and circular tin boxes (see last photo).

And of course, I need to prepare a to-go stash whenever the IA weather is unfriendly or whenever me and DH has to stay at the hotel where he works. It's pretty common during wintertime that we have no choice but to stay there ya know.:) Here are some of the mini boxes I used for those times. But of course, I also have a cross-stitch to-go!

Lastly, here's a glimpse of my work-in-progress bead stitching. I prefer to use a frame (with velvet or felt) as my tray and dump my beads there instead of working on top of the table. This way, I can put the frame on my lap, yet work easily.

I hope everybody's having a great day!

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T23:59:00.002-06:00

I'm sorry for not blogging much recently. Been busy in my cocoon again. We're having another bad weather again therefore DH had to leave early for work... way early actually!

On the positive note, we had a small gathering today (minus DH) and played domino for hours at a friend's house in town. Me and the in-laws has been enjoying our ladies day/night out since January and play domino. We try to do it over the weekends though so everybody is off from work. Before we play, we usually eat first as almost everybody is bringing food. Domino is ADDICTING... period! LOL

I hope you all had a fabulous Heart's Day!

Circle Of Tree And Bulaklak Jewelry Sets

2010-02-04T12:30:00.002-06:00

Made these sets for my friend and her daughter. Unfortunately, by the time I was stitching them, I only have few focal beads so I had to work from what I have.

I knew for a fact that my friend loves to wear tubes and/or spaghetti strap tops as they live in the sunny state, so I thought this kind of necklace will serve her well. It can be worn either the pendant in front as Y-style or let it dangle at the back as choker style.

CIRCLE OF TREE

Technique: Spiral Weave and Basic Wirework

Materials: Shell Drops, Seed and E Beads

And this Bulaklak set is for her 12-yo daughter. I love classic look and I think the set can be worn with almost anything. The necklace is a long Y-style.

WHITE BULAKLAK CLASSIC

Technique: Off-loom Beadweaving and Stringing

Materials: Seed Beads, Crystals and Glass Pearls

Be warm everybody!

Teaching Piece No. 2: CHRISTMAS PINES PAGODA

2010-01-25T22:15:00.007-06:00

Here's another pagoda which will be a part of the 2010 Holiday and Seasons Series teaching pieces.

CHRISTMAS PINES PAGODA

Fabric: Hand-Dyed Line from Stitches and Spice

Threads: Dinky Dyes Silk Threads, DMC Threads

Accessories: Lody's Creations, Mill Hill Seed Beads

***************************************************

Details of the other teaching piece is at this BLOOMS link.

Lion King Musical

2010-01-25T14:05:00.002-06:00

We (me and in-laws) had a girls day out last Saturday and watched Lion King at the Civic Center in Des Moines... SIL gave us tickets last christmas. It's the first time for me and Aunt R, but 5th time for SIL & Katie, while 2nd time for MIL. We all enjoyed the show as the production is really amazing. I love all the costumes, backgrounds, etc... lots of colors!

Though the show starts at 2PM, we left home around 9AM due to weather plus the fact that we planned to have lunch in Des Moines.

If you haven't seen Lion King Musical, you must! I highly recommend it. I've seen all the LK movies but seeing the show is wayyyyyyy better.

Our next girls day out will be on May to see South Pacific... at the Civic Center in Des Moines as well.

Good Craft Mail Days

2010-01-25T11:01:00.008-06:00

It's always a treat for me to receive crafts stuffs in the mail... be it expected or unexpected. I'm sure you know what I mean!

I finally recieved my first issue of B&B for 2010 (MIL's gift subscription). I'm still waiting for my Bead Style copy though... hope it'll arrive soon. I also got few beading books online: Beadworks by Rollason, Bead Accessories by Sawabanori, and Beads by Paolo Bottoni. The last 2 being published in Japan. I enjoyed reading and browsing all of them... on the sad note, I didn't go ga-ga with SANQ's recent issue. I guess coz I was overwhelmed with bead stuffs when I got it.

What you see on the photo below is just a tip of the iceberg. It's a large box full of jewelry supplies from a dear friend in Florida, Anne. She also does fashion jewelries but has been terribly busy that she decided to destash and send me some of her supplies. The package arrived at a perfect time - on my birthday! And since we celebrated my birthday 2 days earlier, I was sure excited to open something on that day... a gift more than I expected! Thanks so much for the supplies Sis (me and Anne call each other Sis as our friendship started online over a decade ago back home). I hope you feel how thankul I am... you definitely put a big smile on my face.

And speaking of surprises... it was indeed a treat to find DMC's new 2010 products in our mailbox 2 weeks ago as I didn't sign-up in their Designer Program. But then when I received my copy of Needlework Retailer last week, I found out that DMC will take over the Charles Crafts fabrics... now that makes sense coz I'm at Charles Crafts' Designer Program. Anyway, DMC sent me complete sets of satin threads (24 new colors) and color infusions memory thread (17 colors). I have to admit I didn't realize til then that they carry memory threads... that works like magic. LOL I had to use one right away, in my couching works. Thank you DMC! I look forward to working with you... and to Charles Crafts (specially to MaryBeth), thanks so much for the opportunity to use your products and deal with you.

And lastly, I received these buttons from another dear friend, Cheryl, a while back. She knows how I love buttons! Upon opening the package, I had to pick some faves right away to use as cabs and locks on my next jewelry pieces. The purples reminds me of my newest SIL back home as it's her fave color, so I'm planning to make a set of jewelries for her... The green ones are perfect for my next spring theme pieces with button & loop closure. The big ones are just perfect as focal points or cabs for my encrusted pendants. Thanks so much for your generosity Cheryl!

Weatherwise, we're having terrible snowdrifts again that compelled DH to stay at the hotel today. The roads are extremely bad and dangerous. I'm guessing that our plower won't pass by till mid-afternoon... only then our roads will be accessible - and that's Iowa life! LOL I can see myself stitching and finishing today while watching my fave movies, and probably work a lil' bit on my site.

Have a great stitching day everyone... keep warm!

Weaved Bracelets And Wired Necklace

2010-01-24T20:17:00.003-06:00

I know, I know, I should be posting more stitchy stuffs!

I also finished all these jewelries this month, and are meant to be surprise gifts... but had to reveal due to a great circumstance.

These bracelets are for my dear friend in Florida, Anne, and her daughter, Kei. Anne sent me a fabulous package which I recieved on my birthday so I thought I'll make something for her and Kei. They're made of seed beads, garnet ships, freshwater pearls, MOP chunks and Silver tags. Both closes with toggles clasps.

The off-white bracelet is a birthday gift for my great-aunt in Michigan. Also made similar to the above ones, spiral weaving... made of freshwater pearls, MOP chunks, silver tags, seed and E beads. The blue-purple bracelet is has 2 beaded beads (tubular peyote), polished stones, and crystals. Another combo of simple weaving and stringing techniques.

And lastly, a linked necklace that I really enjoyed creating... my second piece with this technique. I'll post the first one when I find the photo (it was made of various glass beads). Most of the MOP chunks are from Anne, while the heart donut pendant & the freshwater pearl at the center hole is from my own stash. Still contemplating if I'll give this as a gift as well to match the bracelet above. I'm not doing really good with my stitching lately so I had to boost my ego with jewlery pieces... just so I can say I finished something. LOL

I've had really good mail days this month so I thought I better devote a post for them... something I can look back in time. Hope everybody had a great Sunday! To those in the winter dillema like me, keep warm!

Modified Pagoda: Turkish

2010-01-21T04:47:00.006-06:00

Here's a modified pagoda with specialty stitches, i.e. turkish, etc. I enjoyed stitching the turkish stitches on the roof and can't wait to incorporate it on my next projects. The bottom part of my 2-tier pagodas looks like the bottom of this one. Watch out for upcoming off-site teaching projects, they're great for your stitching guild's workshops.

TURKISH PAGODA

Fabric: Monaco Evenweave from Charles Craft

Threads: Dinky Dyes Silks, DMC

Accessories: Lody's Creations, Mill Hill Seed Beads

The GOODS And The BAD

2010-01-20T23:46:00.001-06:00

The GOOD: As always, DH came home last Monday with this bundle for our you know what... the day we exchanged "I do's". It seems like those moments were just yesterday.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I just can't imagine my life if I had never met you,

fallen in love, and been smart enough to know you were the one...

I could never do without the big and little things you do daily

to delight me, surprise me, and make me happy.

Give me forever, and I still couldn't find the words

to tell you all the ways you make my life complete...

But there's one thing I can do and do very well...

and that's love you with all my heart.
~from DH (minus some parts... LOL)~

Our happiness together

and our love for one another,

gives today special meaning.

I'm so happy to be sharing my life with you.

~for DH (I design/print my card for him)~

Happy Anniversary Honey!

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

The BAD: I lost count how many times we lost the electricity today... around 10 times, or more. But I was sure glad the longest was only an hour, while the rest were just few minutes. Due to severe road conditions, DH had to check-in at the hotel where he worked to be safe... and so he can make it to his last work day this week.

The GOOD: Though the ice storm today made our winter days even colder, I love the fact that these trees gave me some inspiration earlier. Will work on an ICE STORM jewelry set in the near future.

The GOOD: Sipping this mocca frap while updating my blog, PRICELESS!

Stay warm everybody!

Bracelets and Earrings Galore

2010-01-15T15:11:00.004-06:00

Again, the beading bug continues. I've never enjoyed "stringing" this much. It's obviously way faster than bead stitching and embroidery but I can honestly say I'll be able to wear the pieces everyday or on any occassion. Only few projects below were created with peyote and spiral weaving.

I used up one of my christmas GC on more jewelry supplies to increase my glass beads stash. I had to grabbed more glass pearls to accommodate the bracelets I wanted to make... as seen below!

Though I'm not a dangling earring person, I love creating them. Each piece I make reminds me of my niece back home, who doesn't wanna wear earrings unless they're dangling... and she's 7 years old! LOL

The earrings below are 7 pairs per set... all made with gradated glass pearls but differs with rondelle accent: in red, in white crystal, and in rainbow shades. The rondelles were casted in silver so I used sterling silver earring hooks.

I have more beadworks to share but will save those for later posts. I better post more stitchy-related next.

Hope everybody's having a great stitching day!

Necklace Galore...

2010-01-12T14:43:00.003-06:00

... a lariat with RAW, a simple stringing piece with beaded pendant, and a classic black with spiral peyote!

More days spent on beading and bead stitching so I'll just let the pictures speak for themselves.

CURLY LARIAT
Materials: Cubes, E and Seed Beads
Techniques: Basic RAW and Stringing

PURITY
Set: Necklace and Earrings
Materials: Glass Pearls, Crystals, Rondelles,
E-beads and Japanese Seed Beads
Techiques: Bead Stitching (Beaded Bead) and Stringing

TWISTED BLACK BEAUTY
Set: Necklace and Earrings
Materials: Fire Polished Glass, Glass Pearls, Seed & E Beads
Techniques: Spiral Peyote and Stringing

Have a great stitching day everybody!

My Big Day In The Winterland

2010-01-04T17:57:00.005-06:00

There aren't enough words to tell you I love you.

Not enough ways to show you I care.

Not enough laughter and good times to wish you.

Not enough wonderful moments to share...

A million bright mornings would not be too many.

Long evenings forever would still be too few.

For I need you and I love you so much that it seems.

There aren't enough days in a lifetime with YOU.

~DH~

The cold winter days gives me more reason to bead and stitch after sipping a cuppa coffee. Really, with tons of snow outside, I'd rather spend my big day stitching. LOL Can't go wrong with that! Here's a classic set I enjoyed creating: Stardust Silver Set with beaded beads in tubular peyote.

Teaching Piece No. 1: BLOOMS PAGODA

2010-01-02T13:12:00.005-06:00

I want to formally introduce my first teaching piece for the year 2010. Yes, it's just a pagoda finish but I was thrilled when the Education Chair of Nocturnal Needlers-Embroiderers of Oklahoma, informed me months ago that they wanna include my "pagoda finishing" in their 2010 workshops - come springtime. Really, I was overwhelmed with excitement! Now you should see the smile on my face.

BLOOMS

Fabric: Stitches and Spice

Threads: Dinky Dyes Silks, Stitches & Spice Silk, DMC

Accessories: Lody's Creations, Mill Hill Seed Beads

Ok, as the title says, it's my first teaching piece for 2010 - as on-site and/or off-site project. I had thought about offering off-site teaching pieces when another Education Chair contacted me over a year ago if I can teach for their group... which is of course a hand-finishing course. Unfortunately, the stitching guild is out-of-state and the sad part is I had to say no. Moreso, I've wanted to experience an informal class (which I already did last year) first before going to guilds. To cut the story short, my upcoming off-site teaching pieces will be available to stitching guilds and groups with at least 10 members. A photo DVD of step-by-step hand-finishing will be included in the agreement. I'm still finalizing the details but should you intend to partake on this set-up, please have your Education or Program Head to email me.

On the family side, we're supposed to celebrate my birthday (brunch) today at Aunt R's house but her furnace had a lil' problem so we did the gathering at SIL's house. I was given another family heirloom - needlework piece - which I truly love. It's a tatted doily made by MIL's mom. I'm not sure about the year it was made but I think it's over 50 years old. The crafting and beading bug continues... recieved a sub of Bead Style magazine from MIL, Hobby Lobby GC from SIL, and a set of fabulous "Crafts in America" DVD's from DH - which I enjoyed tremendously. Pictures to follow.

Lots of postings coming up so stay tuned!

Happy Year 2010

2010-01-01T11:50:00.005-06:00

Ring out the old, ring in the new,

Ring happy bells, across the snow.

The year is going, let him go;

Ring out the false, ring in the true.

~Alfred, Lord Tennyson, 1850~

BULAKLAK

Materials: Glass Pearls, Crystals and Seed Beads

Techniques: Bead Stitching (Beaded Beads) and Russian Snake

Enjoy my first jewelry sets for 2010... with more to come the soonest! I had been in a beading-bug since christmastime and the cold Iowa weather calms me so far with bead stitching. I also have few stitched pieces to share on my next post.

Hope everybody's having a fabulous New Year's Day!

Christmas And Crafts

2009-12-30T10:21:00.007-06:00

This post has been long overdue so be warned - it's a long post!

Part of our christmas gifts for MIL and Aunt R are books so I made coordinating bookmarks for them, finished them on the 24th. DH was the one who picked all the books and though I'm not a novels enthusiast (used to be back in college), these 2 books caught my attention: The Memory Quilt and A Thread of Hope. I kinda gave MIL and Aunt R that I'm interested to read these books when they're done. LOL

I waited till 24th to finish wrapping gifts coz we're expecting more DVDs in the mail. Unfortunately, they didn't made it in time for christmas. Most of the DVDs below are in the christmas gift lists of my dear in-laws. Did I mentioned before that months before christmas, we exchange lists of what we want to recieve for christmas? I think I did! LOL Anyway, these DVDs are the last gifts I wrapped.

We finished off our gift shopping with a bunch of giftcards... yeah, they're on the list too! Ranges from $25 to $100. I love recieving GC as well, specially from my fave craftstores. They're great for after christmas sale as discounts are hugeeeeeeee! And of course, I recieved some GC as gifts myself. Here I come Hobby Lobby! LOLHere are the gifts, all wrapped up before me and DH hauled them to SIL's house on christmas morning - where we had our gathering. We had a brunch instead of the usual lunch in the past years. I made bacon-wrapped lil' smokies and apple pie. The gathering is a potluck-style so we had a bunch of food.
These beads were from DH and in-laws. Mom got me Bead & Button mag (sub to follow) and Cube Bead Stitching book... plus other stuffs. DH surprised me with a box full of beads (mostly seed and E beads) and other beading supplies. He knew I need to expand my beading stash so he went to Hobby Lobby while I was back home and got me a bunch of supplies. I actually opened the box 2 days before christmas coz I've been bugging him. LOL Talking about excitement ha! He also included bead organizers, and they're already filled. I had been busy reorganizing my craft stash again since before christmas as it's getting hard to find things I'm looking for. SIL also gave me about 10 packs of seed beads (4 oz bags) plus a big organizer. My in-laws really know how to pamper me with craft supplies. LOL SIL gave me, MIL & Aunt R Lion King tickets which we will all use on January 23rd. We'll gonna have a girls day out on that day coz she also got a ticket for Katie and her. This will be the first time I'll see the show but I know it's really good. SIL and Katie watched it whenever the show is available in Des Moines, IA. This might be the 5th time Katie will see it, yet she's always excited. She loves musical shows and always go on some every year.

The first time I saw this bowmaker, I knew right away I had to have one. So I grabbed one this month and told DH to include it in my christmas or birthday gifts. LOL Needless to say, I had to doodle over it, before wrapping it. I'll just act surprise when I opened it this weekend for everybody to see. LOL SShhhsss, just kiddin'.

Look familiar - our driveway! I took the same photo last year... this one was taken yesterday morning as we had snowstorm the other night. DH didn't make it home due to bad road condition. He had to stay at the hotel where he works.
And what could be better during those snow cold days but yummy soup! DH went home few days before christmas with a whole big ham, he said he won it at work. So I immediately cut one fourth of it into cubes and made my own version of Bean and Ham Soup - with celery, carrots, laurel leaves, sweet basil, etc. It was soooooo yummy that I'll gonna make again this week.
I've been in the beadland since christmastime and stitching had to take a back seat. I've been busy beading away... mostly strining and beadweaving! In the last few days, I made more than 10 pairs of simple earrings, which I haven't took a picture yet. Moreso, I made a whole bunch of beaded stitching/sewing accessories like stitch markers, counters, etc. I think I have over 50 packs made already. I also enjoyed making the cases, using scrapbook cardstocks, hence the bright colors... and felt to hold the pins. It closes very well and ready for gift-giving to fellow stitchers. I will list most of them at my store.
And lastly, I'm glad that my partner for the TGOSM Ornament Exchange recieved her package before christmas. She sent me an email on the weekend before christmas that she didn't get them yet despite the fact I mailed it on December 8th. So I told her I'll stitch another one if she won't get them in 2 days, though I stitched a repalcement immeditely for the just in case scenario... and voila, the package arrived on the 22nd. BTW, I restitched another pagoda and will just give it as gift to my great aunt.

Well everybody, I think I've said to much so I better quit. From our house to yours, we wish you all a Happy and Prosperous New Year!

Christmas Exchange For Nancy

2009-12-17T07:41:00.009-06:00

Nancy finally recieved the package for FIT's Christmas Exchange the other day. I'm sure happy it arrived before Christmas. Glad you like everything Nancy!

I made her 3 stitched pieces, two of which were mentioned on my previous post: the Prairie Schooler's "Winter" as jewelry box topper and La-D-Da's "Merry Christmas" which I finished as a hanger or can be used as an ornie too. I gave her the one with beaded fringe. The third piece is my December Pagoda below which I modified a lil' bit for extra fling.

December Pagoda for Nancy

And of course, a Christmas exchange won't be complete without some goodies: ribbons, beads, journal, needles, buttons, MOP thread rings, charms, mini-pewter frame, and fabric - not the ones in the photo though as I found better prints in the store so I changed in the last minute.

Christmas Exchange Goodies for Nancy

Lastly, I stitched another pagoda as Christmas gift for a family member. Will keep it a secret for now!

Aside from the above, I also finished a teaching piece and working on some projects for publications. Something that I can't share yet!

After long days of below freezing point weather, we're having a good one today - as of 7AM, it's 26 degrees. Anything above zero is good for me at this time of year... LOL It's deer hunting week for DH and his buddies (8 of them) since last weekend, so needless to say, our kitchen has been filled with hunters since Saturday. DH had to prepare his signature chili on Friday night. He does that every year, kinda like a tradition! T0-date, they only shot 3 deers so we're all hoping they'll be able to fill-in all their tags before the week ends. They need 7 more deers as some of them has double tags.

Are you done shopping gifts? Not in our household, so we might have to do some tomorrow or Saturday!

From snowy Iowa, have a great day everybody!

Bold, Funky And Colorful Beaded Necklaces

2009-12-17T07:30:00.000-06:00

These beaded necklaces are available at Lody's Creations for a limited time. They're great stocking stuffers and would make a wonderful gift to your family, friends or for yourself. If you want to purchase, please send me an email or visit my shop for further details. I can mail these necklaces directly to the person/s you wanna give it/them to, with your personalized message on a greeting card. Actual shipping cost to each recipient applies!

Quantities are limited and will be available while supplies last only... so don't forget to check them out!

TGOSM 2009 Ornie Exchange From Las Vegas

2009-12-17T07:21:00.004-06:00

I partake in this year's ornament exchange at TGOSM group and Mary from Las Vegas is my partner. I recieved this fabulous package yesterday filled with lovely flatfold and goodies. Thank you so much for everything Mary! I love them all!

Flatfold from Mary

2009 TGOSM Ornament Exchange

Goodies from Mary: Chocolates and Poker Cards

I finally found the other beads I got from Manila (I know there's more... LOL), so here they are. Some of these will be used on my on-going projects. Will talk about it on my next post!

More Yummy Glass Beads from Manila

Have a great stitching day everybody!

Some Finishes And Family Talk

2009-12-07T02:12:00.005-06:00

We had to celebrate SIL's birthday more than a week early, last Saturday, as she'll be off to the Twin Cities either tomorrow or Tuesday. Our dear niece, Katie, will have a surgery on the 10th so pelase send some thoughts and prayers for her.

Ont he stitching note, when I saw La-D-Da's ornament on 2009 JCS Ornament issue, I knew I gotta stitch it. I stitch it not only once, but twice already... and I'm working on 3rd. Since I used 28 count linen instead of the recommended higher count, I finished mine as door hangers. But I'm sure they would look great as well on a big christmas tree. Also, I didn't use the recommended thread colors.

Another design from this year's JCS Ornament issue is this Celtic Wreath by The Sunflower Seed. I just need some quick to stitch and finish project so I'll feel I accomplish something.

I really needed those quicky projects so I also stitched this Prairie Schooler's Winter which I had to modify a bit to fit on the box lid. This is DH's favorite (and mine too) amongst my recent finishes. I'm working on a second piece as well! LOL

And lastly, the JBW Christmas Tree I is a must-stitch for me too... working on the companion piece (the second tree). I decided to use the linen I bought from Philippines so I used brighter shade of green so the color will stand out. The other ornie is from Homespun Elegance and the pattern can be found at a JCS Ornament issue as well (forgot what year though... will share later), which I finished as a pocket ornament. Those stuffs sticking out on top are DMC threads.

Well, my dear friends, the above are some of my accomplishments in the last couple of weeks. I stitched and finished those in-between or while working on some teaching pieces! I have more "smalls" made while back home and will share photos of them soon so watch out... I love how they turned out.

Have a great stitching Monday all!

Christmas Package From Laura

2009-12-05T13:26:00.001-06:00

FIT Group organized a christmas exchange last September which I partake and Laura is my partner. She sent me a fabulous package that made my heart sing with joy.

We were out when the package arrived, so when I saw this box, I knew right away it has christmas goodies.

Ta-da!!!... this appears when I opened the box. Can you tell that Laura is such a crafty person? She used a pretty (christmas) fabric as giftwrapper then the ornie as gift-tag. Great job Laura!

I'm so proud to be the owner of this lovely ornament. It was beautifully stitched and neatly finish. Thanks Laura!

The revelation of more goodies... A pair of oh-so-pretty pillowcases which I'm pretty sure sewn by Laura. I love the muted colors Laura. Thanks heaps!

A couple of christmas theme charts: Prairie Schooler's 2009 Santa - I have to start collecting the series as I have few of them... and JBW Designs' Christmas Tree Collection I - now already in progress. I had to stithc one of the tree that night... now already finished!

A couple of cute drawsting baggies...

... that contains yummy goodies such as beading needles and beads beads at the red pouch while the other pouch contains cute button, Mill Hill beads and WDW threads for JBW pattern above. Thank you so much again Laura!

Now comes my favorite in the package (I'm allowed to have a fave, right?)... A pair of scissors and "What a hoot?" by The Cat's Whiskers in which Laura did a wonderful job. I can't wait to take this piece with me on my next stitching gt-away.

Thank you so much for this great package that you put together very well Laura! I love everything and I can't wait to use all these goodies soon. I'll surely think of you whenever I use the pillowcases... when the ornie hangs on my tree... and whenever I'll use the cute scissors. It will surely stay at its owl place.

Have a great stitching day everybody!

Simple Cutwork Block - A Christmas Gift

2009-12-03T01:37:00.006-06:00

Here's another small I finished recently... it has a touch of cross stitch, basic hardanger and cutwork. I'm planning to include this piece in my freebies but please give me ample time to finalize the pattern. The PDF file will be uploaded soon on my Lody's Creations site.

Happy stitching!

Star Pincushion - Made Of 15 Blocks

2009-12-02T12:53:00.002-06:00

STAR PINCUSHION - 15 Blocks

Fabric: 28 count Tea Monaco Evenweave from Charles Craft

Threads: Dinky Dyes Silks and DMC Perle Cotton

Beads: Mill Hill Seed Beads

While I was in the Philippines, I stitched few pincushions and purses, but I only managed to finished the above... which unfortunately I had to re-finish here in US. Why you might ask? 'Coz I couldn't find the right filling materials there. I used (facial cleansing) cotton as stuffing for the above but the result is not pleasant so I stopped finishing the other pincushions.

I've been recieving good news since I got back but won't share them yet till everything is confirm and finalize... all needlework related fo course! I'm extremely excited!!!

From my busy stiching fingers to yours, have a great day!

Note to Dane:

Dane, the previous stuffing was cotton balls but now I re-stuffed it with premium fibre-fill. Only 5-blocks on top have stitching as I was too anxious to see the completed piece then... but will work on a piece with 15-blocks stitched. - Lody

Our Friendly Animals Back Home

2009-12-02T01:14:00.004-06:00

Here's a typical view of our kitties when I wake up early in the morning. I would normally see them like in the first 2 photos. But at times, some manage to sneak inside the house and they end up like in photo 3. The last photo is my fave.

The last time I went home on 2006, we only have one kitty that's why I was so surprised when I saw 4 wondering around in our kitchen this year... and at times, even our neighbor's cat stay at our house (which happen to be a sibling of our cats). I can't remember our house not having an outside dog or cat since I was a kid... we always have or raise different animals, either at our house or at the farm. Currently, my father has a bunch of ducks (about 30) in the farm, chickens/roosters, one puppy (few weeks old which we call Brownie), one dog (Whity), and the kitties. Since the cats multiply regularly, we don't bother to give them individual names... we all call them "Muning" which is the lingo term for cat in our dialect.

DH laughed when I told him the story behind our doggies names... If it's white, we always call it Whity... if it's brown, Brownie... if it's black, Blacky... if it has spots, we call it Spot. LOL While MIL always use the same whenever she gets a new dog. She only get a new dog when the old one die or get lost.
How about you, what kind of furry friends do you have?

The Lone Beader: Beading Book Giveaway of the Week!

2009-11-30T23:08:00.001-06:00

Diana, aka The Lone Beader, is giving away a beading book each week from Lark Books. Whether you love beads or not, you'll surely enjoy Lark Books. So don't forget to check out The Lone Beader's Blog for details as due date for this week is on 4th of December 2009, 11:59 PM EST.

Stashing Back Home

2009-11-30T02:54:00.004-06:00

I think a crafter will always find way to stash wherever she/he is. Though I didn't able to visit my favorite stitching shop in Pasig (Metro Manila), I managed to get stash from different places... items were purchased accordingly from my hometown and Manila!

Fabrics... fabrics... fabrics! These were my first "stash" purchase from my hometown. There were a lot of choices and I wish I could buy more but I knew I have limited amount of luggage to consider. These fabrics are only 1 to 3 yards each... not good as finishing materials for my smalls but would be great for tote bags (I think) or crazy quilting. Most are textured and thick but very soft, so I'm thinking these are curtain fabbies. I already sew a couple of pouch bags while I was back home - for my nieces Lian & LJ - using one of the variegated fabric... both turned out cute but forgot to take pics of them. I used shoe strings for closure.

Beads... beads... beads! Who wouldn't get them when you see these yummy colors? I bought mostly seed beads but there are some E-beads too. My faves are the variegated ones! Majority are czech but some are japanese beads. If I remember it right, these beads are over 150 packs. I'm thinking of using these on my bead embroidery projects and embellishing smalls. I also bought some fancy glass beads which will be used for my jewelries but will share photo of those next time. Purchased during my first visit in Manila.

Linen... linen... linen! The stitcher part of me always on a look-out of linen. I purchased this linen from the same shop I got the beads, but didn't notice till my second visit. The size is approximately 30 count. The look is kinda similar to natural irish linen, but the texture is rougher and harder. I think I purchased 10 yards of this. Tested the fabric right away when I had the chance, using one of my designs with cutwork then finished it into a biscornu.
And lastly, I couldn't resist these embroidered handkies and pouches when I saw them at the Filipiniana section of my favorite mall. I doubt if these hankies are handstitched aside from the ones made of pina cloth (with pink). Some of the handkies had cutwork andpulled thread techniques. The top 3 boxes contains surface embroidery though.
The above are just "part" of the stash I brought from Philippines... more photos to come. I alloted one luggage for stash, while the other for pasalubong (gifts) as all my clothes were left for my sister and mom... uhum, we wear the same sizes.

More posts coming up!

Angels Of The Family

2009-11-29T20:07:00.011-06:00

WARNING: LOTS OF KID'S PHOTOS...

I told some friends about the new additions of my family back home so might as well share their photos here. These are my nephews and nieces that I met for the first time during my vacation back home... Jomac, LJ, Jude and Lian. They're all kids of my 3 younger brothers... yes, younger brothers ranges from 21 to 31.

MEET JUDE AND LIAN: Kids of my brother whom I attended his church wedding in the Philippines on 2006... the civil wedding though was on 2005, so don't be surprise that the first baby was born on 2006.:) Jude is now 3 years old, while Lian will be 2 years old on January. DH laughed when he saw a series of this first photo. I took photos of them while they're waiting for their bottled milk until they both finished. It was like a contest who'll gonna finish first. I was actually surprised Jude beat Lian, as in previous days, Lian always finish first.

The siblings both love peanut butter sandwich, which I have to admit is not one of my favorite food. While I was back home, I made sure the kids' favorite foods are always available in our household - including chips, pancit canton, hotdogs, pancakes, etc. Here's a couple pics of them enjoying their sandwiches. Never mind the mess, I bet you know how toddlers are.

MEET LJ: She was born September this year and is the daughter of my youngest brother. She's such a hyper baby. DH laughed when he saw her photos with mittens... he said they look like boxing gloves. LJ was over couple weeks old on the following 2 photos.

Here's LJ and her Tita (Aunt) Lody holding each other for the first time. She was exactly 2 weeks old then... and sleeps most of the time.

I (literally) took hundreds of photos in a day specially prior to LJ's christening to be use on her invitation, give-away, (tarpoline) banner, etc. We had to change her clothes numerous times on a particular day to take a good shot... and given the chance, we also tried to put a matching hair accessory as she was always mistaken a boy!

We got lucky indeed, and here are the pics I used on her photo invitation and give-aways.

Here are the final products... BTW, I just bought raw materials for the give-aways in Manila then assembled it ourselves in Pampanga... 100 pieces of them! As for her invitations, instead of envelope, I used regular tracing paper - tied with pink ribbon for enclosure.

MEET JOMAC: The youngest among the new addition! Jomac's dad is the eldest among my 3 brothers. SIL was admitted at the hospital around 4PM and was supposed to have a normal delivery but once she got into the delivery room, her BP fluctuated. By 8PM, her doctor informed us that SIL had to undergo a C/S operation. Jomac was born on November 4th at 9:25PM, weighs 3.85 kgs (8.47 lbs), and measures 51 cm long. I was there at the hospital from day one, as well as my parents and Jomac's maternal grammy.

This photo was taken at the operating room... I wasn't inside the OR, but I managed to convince SIL's doctor to take few pictures before cutting the embellical cord for my brother to see his baby right out from mommy's womb. The people at the OR were kind enough to take more photos... starting when SIL's tummy was cut (which I"m sure you don't want to see) till the baby was all cleaned up. BTW, the doctor assigned one of the nurses to take the photos. I was sure glad they had an extra pair of hands to do my request.

By Friday (November 6th), Jomac was released from the nursery to be with his mommy and us. The bonding began right away of course. I was the one who picked him up at the nursery and put him in our assigned private room. I was told that he's the biggest as well as the only baby in there who can finish 3 oz of milk. He'll gonna a 6-footer someday like my brothers, that's for sure. This photo was taken around 3PM, November 6th.

Here he is at exactly one week old. I also used this same photo on his invitations and give-away tags... unfortunately, I didn't able to do any of the give-aways while I was there as my younger sister will do them after I leave. Oh, and we're pretty sure that Jomac will be whiter than LJ.

I thought it would be nice to incorporate snapshots of his various body parts on the invitation so I did!... snapshots are: belly button, ear, hair, hand and foot!

MEET ELLA: Here's Ella, my only niece the last time I went home on 2006. She just turned 7 years old last June and is a second grader. Every Monday, she gets to wear her Girl's Scout uniform in school.

At times, I get to convince her to have her hair french-braid by me... I managed to do it a few times. I wish I took a photo of her hair when the braid was circular. Hay...!

More photos of the kids... just because...
Another photo of the kids at the new "Eat All You Can" restaurant at a nearby town. The two healthy (not fat... LOL) boys are my cousins, ages 6 and 10. They are brothers, obviously... their mom is my mom's younger sister (who's only a few years older than me). I try to take them with me when me and the kids are going at a mall or Jollibee (counterpart of Mc Donalds) - kids fave fast food chain back home. Mat & Louie has another brother in between, but won't go with us unless their mom go too... Yeah, he's a Mama's boy! When I got there on our way home from the airport, I was immediately advised that Lian seldom go out... In fact, she's never been to the mall and Jollibee prior my arrival. So I made it sure that I take her with me wherever I go. As a result, whenever I get dress (a going-out dress) she would hold my hand and won't leave me... coz she knows she'll be left out if she'll let me go.

What better souvenir can we have from our trips than pictures and videos? Since I got back, I've been busy sorting photos and editing family videos I took while I was back home, which are mostly of my nephews and nieces. I can't wait to get the videos done so I can start mailing them to my siblings abroad (particularly my 2 brothers who are working overseas), my sister in CA, and relatives from different states.

More photos and stories about my trip soon!

Typhoons And All Saints Day In The Philippines

2009-11-29T18:37:00.006-06:00

A couple days prior to my departure last September, I recieved a lot of emails from stitching friends all over the globe telling me about the typhoons back home. I have to admit that during those days, I was busy packing instead of watching the news. From the bottom of my heart, please accept my sincere thanks for your thoughtfulness... you all know who you are!

Anyway, it is a fact that the months of September and October have the most rainy days in the Philippines. However, I never thought this year's storms & typhoons will hit Luzon terribly, particularly Central Luzon where my parents and most relatives live. I think it's the first time in history, but definitely first time in my lifetime, that landslide occured in my hometown - a part of barangay in San Juan Bano due to typhoon Ondoy. A lot of kids, housewives, and few grammies died there... after that incident, the community had trauma of rain. All of the farmers in my hometown - including my father - didn't harvest much palay (rice) this year due to severe flooding.

At least 3 days a week in the month of October, the sky has this dark clouds at my parent's place. I took this 2 photos after typhoon Pepeng. I think it was also Pepeng that caused various landslides in Benguet, and more floods in Pangasinan and Nueva Ecija.

By November 1st, which is our All Saints Day, the sky looks like this. Hooray! We were at the cemetery when my sister took this photo of Mt. Arayat.

I'm glad I managed to celebrate All Saints Day with my family this year. Starting 5:30AM, some of my cousins, uncles and aunts were already at the cemetery where my maternal grammy was buried. My youngest brother and few cousins had to put up the tent before sunrise so the first few batches who gets there won't get roasted. We had potluck for the whole day food and we're in-charge of lunch and dessert. Me and my mom went in town market around 5AM on that day to buy some ingredients and flowers. My mom's younger sister brought chicken soup (sopas) for merienda (afternoon snack) while the rest of the siblings were in-charge of sandwiches, softdrinks, chips, etc. Almost everybody brought candles and flowers. It was a fun fun day! I think we went home around 7PM.

BTW, I keep on saying that All Saints Day in the Philippines is our version of Halloween in the US, but according to Aunt R, it's more like a Memorial Day!

More Packages From Australia

2009-11-29T08:04:00.005-06:00

I had been blessed with wonderful stitching friends, suppliers and editor. I couldn't ask for more. The following packages were sent by two wonderful friends from down-under.

I recieved this package from Naomi of Stitches and Spice while I was in the Philippines. There were fats hand-dyed linen and lots of hand-dyed threads: stranded cotton, sampler, and silks. Thanks so much for your generosity Naomi. I really appreciate what you're doing.

These sets of thread winders are so lovely... and are must-haves to any stitcher's collection. Kirsten surprised me with her complete set of winders and a lovely scissors from Dinky Dyes. This package came along with my needle etui model below. Thank you so much for this fabulous collection Kirsten. I can't wait to incoporate them with my models.

Watch out for more posts... I have more to share later. Have a great stitching day everybody!

Sheep MA Exchange From Utah

2009-11-29T07:55:00.002-06:00

Another exchange waiting for me is this Sheep MA from MAF Group. My partner is Kayla and she indeed did a wonderful job on the MA she stitched for me. I love this new addition on my collection as well as the goodies inside the envelope.

Thank you so much for this lovely MA Kayla. I haven't tried using Sullivan threads before and I can't wait to use them, as well as the dainty buttons.

Happy stitching!

Halloween Exchange From Jennifer

2009-11-29T06:51:00.003-06:00

My blog has been neglected for 2 months already, yet it seems like it's only yesterday the last time I posted. I have so much to write, but I wanna start with the "Halloween Exchange" package from Jen as I was so thrilled when she told me I'm her recipient partner. Since I was out of the country when she mailed the package, I didn't able to open it till I returned over a week ago. This is the first package I opened among the many packages waiting for me.

Jen made a lovely stitched pillow for me with a design from Hillside Sampling called Pickled Pumpkin. Both stitching and finishing are so neat. The finishing fabric coordinated very well with the stitched piece. I wish I can sew as good as you! I love it Jen and I'll surely think of you whenever I put it out.

Whenever we have an exchange at FIT Group, a little someting is included, and this exchange is no exception. Jen pampered me with fabulous halloween goodies: patterns from Sam Sarah and Trail Creek Farm, yummy candies, socks, a cutie violet sponge (which remind me of my newest SIL, as her fave color is violet), swankie hankies, and a thoughtful card.

Thank you so much for this lovely exchange Jen. Everything in the package is highly appreciated. The pillow and goodies surely put a smile on my face...

To see more of Jen's lovely works, do visit her blog here! Will write more later... Happy Stitching!

All My Bags Are Packed...

2009-09-27T14:17:00.008-05:00

... or so I think! After a few packing and re-packing, I finally settled as to what to put in my luggages. I can't remember how many times I had to dig and compress the stuffs as I wanna maximize the space. Below are the luggages I'll take with me, 2 check-in and a carry-on plus of course a purse for my gadgets and stitching books. Unfortunately, my notebook quit on me recently so I decided to just have it repaired when I get back.

DH was craving for steak yesterday... while he was grilling, I was busy in the garden picking as much veggies as I can to preserve one last time. I'm sure they'll be all gone when I get back. My asparagus beans or string beans (sitaw in tagalog) just started to bloom a couple weeks back and yesterday was my first harvest. My eggplants and okra are still blooming really good as well, not to mention our peppers are overflowing again. I picked more than 20 eggplants, mostly japanese kinds, but the lavender touch and satin beauty are all huge. I took a photo while holding a satin beauty to show how big they are. We didn't get tomatoes this years as much as the previous years but we have more than enough to eat. DH friend drop by today so we gave some to him earlier.

I wish I have "ampalaya" so I can cook "pinakbet", but I can't find one here unless I'll go in Des Moines. The daredevil peppers or "siling labuyo" went right away on my datu puti "suka" or vinegar that's why they're not in the picture below. I have way too much habanero this year so I told DH we may not need to plant them next year, same goes for jalapeno. These were preserved yesterday and are now frozen.Look at these eggplants! I got them from one plant only... I think the said plant alone gave me more than 50 eggplants already... seriously, they stemmed and bloomed a lot. As I mentioned before, DH polinated them as we don't have much bees. Oh and notice the leaves on the background, can't deny it's fall already!

Here's what we had for lunch yesterday... this is DH's plate. We still have some left-over potatoes from MIL so I fried the biggest piece with olive oil, white onion and herbs.

After DH got done grilling, I grilled my eggplants and preserved most of them. Saved a couple and made eggplant omelet for supper... just for me as DH doesn't eat eggplants. Just in case some of you are curious, I peeled each eggplant after grilling. These are also yummy in "ensalada" (with "bagoong isda" as sauce or dressing), and was supposed to make some but I was too full yesterday that I neglected the idea... not to mention I want my "ensalada" to have yums young leaves ("talbos ng kamote"). MIL used to plant yums in her garden but was unlucky in the last couple of years so she decided not to plant this year.

I hope it's not yet too cold when I get back and can still have some fresh veggies from our garden, though I have to cross my fingers on that.

Have a great first Fall Sunday everybody!

Halloween/Autumn Exchange For Laura

2009-09-26T21:20:00.004-05:00

This is the first time I participated on a Halloween Exchange and I love it. Jen organized it for FIT Group and my partner is Laura. I mailed her package the other day and was recieved today. That was fast ha! I hope you enjoy your smalls Laura.

I have to admit I don't have much patterns for Halloween but I was sure glad I found some Prairie Schooler (which is one of Laura's fave designer) patterns in my stash... the Owl Ornament and Cat Pinkeep. When my 2009 JCS magazine Halloween issue arrived in the mail, I immediately stitched Knotted Tree Needlearts' "Happy Jack" as Laura like pumpkins too.

2009 Halloween/Autumn Exchange for Laura

I can barely recall the stash I put in the package so I grabbed one of the photo Laura shared in the group earlier.

The Extra Goodies: Scissors, Beaded Fob, Ribbon,

Needles, Fabric, Charms, and Googly Eyes

There's another exchange from another group on its way to the recipient but has to travel overseas. I may not be able to participate on an exchange till next year as I have some deadlines to finish till December.

I hope everybody's having agreat stitching weekend!

The Liz Logelin Foundation

2009-09-25T20:39:00.003-05:00

This is not a craft related thing but I thought it's worth to share as it's for a good cause. I may not be able to update my blog for a while while attending personal matters so I wanna share with you one of the outstanding blogs I have ever encountered.

I became one of the many silent readers of Matt & Madeline's blog since I saw them on Rachel Ray show. Liz (wife of Matt & mom of Maddy) died 27 hours after giving birth to Maddy... The foundation was formed with a main goal:

"where other widows and widowers can offer – and be offered – support and friendship."

If you want to cry, laugh, and be inspired at the same time, check out their blog and Liz Foundation.

Happy reading!

Open Theme MA From MW Of Malaysia

2009-09-23T06:46:00.003-05:00

Aw organized an Open Theme MA for NNC Group and MW happens to be my (sender) partner. I recieved it on Monday, and was mailed as is. As expected with MW's lovelt and neat works, this MA is no exception. Some of the stitching in the main motifs were stitched "one over one", such a tedious work. Per MW's advise, the quaker motif is a freebie from this link.

Open Theme MA from NNC Group

Stitched by MW of Malaysia

Thanks so much for this wonderful MA MA... and many many thanks for all the lovely stash you included. I can't wait to use them in my upcoming projects. If only I can stitch as fast as I can think of a new idea. So many projects, so little time!

Have a wonderful stitching day everybody!

Majesty Set And Some Beadworks

2009-09-23T06:18:00.004-05:00

I can believe it's been weeks since the last time I updated my blog. Been busy on other things as some of you already know. Most of these jewelries were finished last week, some of them weeks ago, but unable to post them right away as I was busy packing for my trip. I used the beads Joanne (of Malaysia) sent me, the garnet chips I got from the State Fair, and potato freshwater pearls from my stash. Thanks again Joanne! I really love this kind of seed beads as they have multiple lovely shades that can be incorporated in a lot of colors.

The technique used for all these jewelries is spiral weaving only, another "no-brainer stitch". I was about to give peyote a rest but then I had to make a big tube to attach the encrusted pendant later on. Yes, I will use one of my signature encrusted pendant on the Majesty Set though it's still in progress. This set is my favorite among my recent beadworks. I might change the silver grapes and leaves clasp into a beaded loop & ball but will leave it as is for now. I have to buy more beads similar to what Joanne's sent me.

Majesty Set - Beadworks by Lody

Note: Encrusted pendant to be attached later

Majesty Set, Bracelets and Earrings

(Sorry for the blurry photo, will have to replace it sometime)

Three members of the family (my in-laws) had their birthdays this month, and the gathering were all done at Aunt R's house in Marshalltown. They were of course another great gatherings.

I'm sorting some stitching stuffs to take with me on my upcoming trip though I have to admit, my luggages are full. I might have to remove some of the packed stuffs, one way or the other, I won't travel without my crafts. I'm planning to take some encrusting materials too.

Will share some stitching works some other time as they were not recieved yet by the recipients. Hope everybody's having a great stitching week!

Pumpkin Theme MA From Finland

2009-09-06T14:51:00.004-05:00

As mentioned in my other post, only me and Niina signed-up for this exchange... and I recieved my piece yesterday. Thank you so much for this lovely MA you made for me Niina. I love everything in it, specially the card you painted.:)

Pumpkin MA from Niina of Finland

I'm having a lazy Sunday afternoon here, after a full-blast lunch with DH. We had fried chicken, baked potatoes and carrots... with gravy on mine. Very yummy-licious!

I should be stitching right now but my fingers won't work well, so I'll visit some of my fave blogs and forums for a while. Actually, I'm kinda sleepy but I avoid sleeping at daytime coz I end up awake all night long.

Hope everybody's having a great Sunday!

Some Halloween Finishes

2009-09-05T01:16:00.009-05:00

Aside from stitching and finishing some models and exchange pieces (which I can't show yet), I managed to complete few halloween theme smalls. They're all quick to stitch designs that's why I managed to finish six of them.

Smell My Feet

La-D-Da: stitched on 28 ct Tea Monaco

CWDS: 28 ct Off-white Davosa

When I saw this "Smell My Feet" of La-D-Da from JCS 2008 Halloween issue, I've wanted to stitch it... but I'm not a Halloween-y stitcher then yet. This year, I decided to start collecting Halloween and Fall smalls so I digged the magazine right away when I got my stitching opportunity early this week. I finished it into a pillow trimmed with ruched ribbon. I'm stitching a second piece (a keep-me piece) but will use purple instead of green.

This Cherry Wood Design Studio piece is also titled "Smell My Feet", and was released last year as well. What a coincidence HA? The humorous full verse was "Trick or treat smell my feet", but as you can see in my ornies below, I stitched "Trick or Treat" only. I made a second piece using green floss instead of fuschia. I should have finished these as flat mounted ornaments but my tacky glue is kinda hard already, and the new one is nowhere to be found. Both were trimmed with black twisted cording. I thought these would be great as a door hanger , don't you think?

I can't believe Halloween is fast approaching... Happy stitching all!

Note: These pieces are not for any exchanges... Frankly, I don't know yet what to do with them.

Open Theme MA To Malaysia

2009-09-04T22:58:00.001-05:00

It's always a big sigh of relief when I get notified that an exchange going to Malaysia arrived safely. I didn't expect it to arrive till next week as I only mailed it via regular mail.

I chose a quaker block for the main motif then finished it as a sewing roll. It was a quick stitch and I enjoyed every minute putting it together. The inside part has a pocket to hold knick-knacks, MOP thread rings, a couple felt needle pages and a magnetic strip to mind loose needles while stitching. This exchange was organized at NNC, and my recipient partner is Joanne. Hope you enjoy your new MA Joanne!

Open Theme MA for Joanne of Malaysia

Organized at NNC Group

Have a great stitching weekend everybody!

A Stye And Some Veggies

2009-09-03T18:39:00.003-05:00

A stye, a stye, look at my stye! LOL I woke up Wednesday last week with a stye on my right eye. I can barely open it so needless to say, I didn't do much stitching and reading... which is a bummer! It was swelling like crazy, as you can see in the photo below... It just got back to normal on Tuesday. Thank goodness!

And here are some of the veggies we recently got from our garden and from MIL's. The carrots and potatoes are all from MIL's, the rest are from ours. We picked more tomatoes and eggplants this afternoon and I can see myself canning salsa this weekend. I might have to make my own version of sweet relish just so I won't throw away the yellow cucumbers. I haven't tried this before so it will be a new task. I wish you can see how big the potatoes are. Some of the ones I used on mashed potatoes were over 7" long.

Potatoes, Carrots, and Cucumbers

Various Eggplants and Okra

Various Peppers: Habanero, Jalapeno, Daredevil, etc.

The too much rain few weeks back officially killed at least 2 of our tomato plants. We do still get some but not as much as previous years. Therefore, I won't be able to make a lot of salsa and canned tomatoes this year. I read a great tomato preserving this morning, from relish publication, by simply baking the sliced tomatoes with seasoning on a baking sheet then cool and freeze on a ziplock. I haven't tried this technique, but will do this year. I have a lot of preserved eggplants and green beans already. But I might not have much okra though, as I planted different kind this year. Plus, the deers are frequent visitors of our garden. LOL

That's all for now folks! Write later....

Pumpkin Theme MA To Finland

2009-09-03T07:50:00.004-05:00

Just in time for upcoming season and holiday, here's another MA that I didn't able to resist. This is indeed a memorable exchange coz I can't believe it's only me and Niina who signed up.

I mailed her MA last week as is, via regular mail to Finland, yet she recieved it yesterday already. Isn't that so fast?

Pumpkin Theme MA for Niina of Finland

Main Motif: Yikes of Bent Creek

Motif pumpkin from Maryse

Inside filled with Fall color threads and ribbon

This MA is, as always, finished by hand and the finishing is like my traditional checkbook holder case. It's been a while since I used this technique so I thought it would be great on this piece as I planned to mail it as is. Niina advised that my MA from her was already mailed. Now the waiting part.

Have a great stitching day everybody!

August 23rd: The JOURNEY Concert...

2009-08-31T19:22:00.007-05:00

... and the last day of the Fair! When DH got home from work that Sunday morning, I didn't expect that he's not planning to sleep... so I wasn't dressed to leave yet. In fact, I didn't believe him when he said we'll leave right away until he got dressed, etc. Anyway, by 9:30AM, we're at the fairgrounds parking already. We usually get there before 8AM on other days. The good thing about that day was that we didn't have to wait for any building to open. But before checking out any exhibits, we ate breakfast first... funnel cake and coffee!... so yummy! Within that day, I managed to see all the places and things I wanna see.

Look at this jumbo pumpkins? Most of there are about 1,000 lbs weight. I think I even saw a piece which is almost 1,200 lbs.

I got these miniature primitive stuffs at the Shopper's Mart... plus other fabbie things. Each item in the photo below reminds me of my favorite samplers. These are the only miniatures that caught my attention as the rest are christmas related stuffs like snowflakes.

Other things I can't resist are jewelry supplies? I'm planning to make a set of bracelet and earrings out of the garnet chips... and will use the Brazilian agates stones as cabochons on my next encrusted pendants. I also bought various jewelry making tools at the Flea Market, i.e. bend pliers, ring sizers (both plastic and metal), etc.

With all the walking we did that day, we decided to ride the "Sky Glider". I think that would be the first and last I'll gonna ride it coz I hate heights. LOL

One of the famous trademark of IA State Fair is the butter cow... and other butter characters (photos courtesy of Iowa State Fair website). In my first 3 years here, me and DH would usually fall in line to see the butter cow up close and personal. But since last year, we stopped doing it. Anytime we go there, the line is just crazy... soooooo long. I heard in the news before that they're planning to make a butter Michael Jackson, as a tribute to the King of Pop. But obviously, the proposal wasn't approved (?). Last year was Shawn Johnson, Iowa's golden girl... the olympian!

And finally, around 6PM, we're already at the gate of the Fairgrounds for Journey's concert. As expected, there were a lot of Filipinas there. LOL We managed to get in right away and waited for almost a couple of hours. We decided to get in early after all the walks we had. "Heart" was the first performer during the first half, for almost an hour. By the time Journey appeared on stage, it was way past 10PM already. But the waiting is all worth it. LOL Forgive me if my photos are blurry... and during the break, I got DH a souvenir concert shirt.:)

Now I gotta wait another year again for the Fair.... It just ended but I'm missing it already.

Have a great week everybody!

IA State Fair's 4-H Exhibits

2009-08-29T18:30:00.000-05:00

I didn't ge to go at the 4-H Building till Sunday, last day of the Fair. All of these entries were done by kids and teen-agers (in High School). Aren't their works fabulous? I'll let the pictures speak for themselves.

Sampler MA From MW Of Malaysia

2009-08-28T16:34:00.000-05:00

I recieved this wonderful MA from Margaret last Monday, with various laces inside. I love the design as well as the colors. I can't wait to use the laces for my next project. Thank you so much for this wonderful exchange MW!

Sampler MA from MW of Malaysia

MailArt Friends Group

Sampler MA From Michelle Of Greece

2009-08-19T11:28:00.003-05:00

I recieved this MA from Greece yesterday, another MA exchange from MAF Group. Per Michelle's note, the design was from Geranium House of CCN. Isn't it lovely? My partner pampered me with extra stash and a bracelet gift. I just love the colors, and the bracelets goes well with most of my tops as I love earth-tones. Thank you so much for this wonderful exchange Michelle. I love everything you sent me. I can't wait to use the lace and threads.

Sampler MA from Michelle of Greece

MAF Group

Have a great stitching day everybody!

Heirloom Sewing And What Nots

2009-08-17T10:16:00.008-05:00

Here's the pillow I made on the "Heirloom Sewing Class" I attended on the first day of the State Fair, August 13th afternoon. It is made of dupioni silk, in green and ecru... and as the teacher said, it has to be filled lightly. I'm thinking of embellishing the edge but I'm not sure yet what medie to use, i.e. beads, trimmings, etc. It was a fun class and I can't wait to enroll on another class on Friday or Sunday.

Heirloom Sewing Project - August 13, 2009

Unfortunately, the "Shuttle Tatting Class" I wanna enroll is offered on the day I wasn't on the Fair so I'll gonna miss it this year. As I was browsing my Fair photos earlier, I realized I didn't share some of the tatted pieces so here they are. I think "Tatting Category" has the least entries this year, as per Dorothy.

The top 3 fabbies in the photo below were the ones I bought the other week, while the other 3 on the bottom were purchased this weekend. I so love the Fall and Halloween fabbies! The floral blue on the bottom left is kinda like a thick canvas-feel (cotton) fabric, and I'm thinking of making tote bags out of it.

Yardages of Cotton Fabbies

I finally decided to do some canning last Friday after all those rain we had early last week. Me and DH picked a bucketful of cucumber on Friday morning, both the regulars and skinny ones. As I gather my canning supplies, I realized I don't have much "small mouth" jars so DH had to get some at MIL's. I made 7 big jars of sweet pickles and 5 big jars of dill.

Sweet Pickles and Dills - August 14, 2009

All those rain early last week refrain us from picking veggies in the garden. Our garden is in the lower part of our lawn and it's kinda muddy after so much rain. As a result, some of our cucmbers got really old, which are actually perfect for MIL's relish. So I separated the big ones and we deliver these at MIL's on Saturday, along with some fresh corn, a muscatine cantaloup, and grilled chicken breasts. DH was in the mood to grill after we went in town, so I prepared mashed potato and gravy with our grilled chicken and corn. We've been enjoying MIL's fresh potatoes in weeks now. Needless to say, I'm sure I'm gaining extra pounds again. LOL

Cucumbers for MIL's Relish

Are you familiar with parslane? Well, it's called "maligoso" in my hometown in Pampanga, Philippines... an edible weed that has a lil' bit bittery (like ampalaya leaves) and slimy feel taste (like spinach). I already blog about parslane last year when I found them being sold at our local flea market. moreso, we gets lots of these in our backyard every summer so I told DH not to remove them when he's weeding in the garden. I picked some on Friday as they're starting to conquer our other veggies. I only picked 4 roots yet the big bucket got full. Unfortunately, I only managed to "himay" half, and the other half went into waste. It was just too much, and I have more to pick at the garden next few times!

Edible Weed: Parslane or Maligoso in Tagalog

I watched Tyra Banks Show, Dr. Phil Show, Who Want To Be A Millionaire and Jeopardy on Friday the entire time I was seggregating the leaves. But all the time I spent doing that was well worth it as I enjoyed eating my supper. After washing the leaves reallhy good, I sauteed them with a clove (minced) fresh garlic, medium size onion, olive oil, and a can of sardines. It was sure good with steam rice. I can't wait to do it again this week.

Parslane Leaves ready to cook!

Our eggplants this year are doing good too! I planted 3 kinds - lavender touch, satin beauty, and japanese eggplant (the skinny ones, similar to what we plant back home). I've been enjoying them for almost a month already. I usually eat them with fried fish and "burung isda", but since I got so much last week, I decided to start preserving - frozen method. I cut them into quarters then blanched (boiling water with lemon juice to preserve color) them for a few minutes... once they're strained and cold, I put them in zip lock baggies then freeze.

2009 Eggplants: Lavender Touch, Satin Beauty & Japanese

I took a lot of photos of our veggies garden last Wednesday, August 12, so I can show them to my family back home. I'll share some of them in my next post so you can see our "Christmas Tree Eggplants" and "Christmas Tree Tomatoes"... as in we had to put rods and sticks on them so they won't fall on the ground.

I have some stitching works to do so I better go back to work now. Have a great week everybody!

2009 Iowa State Fair - Part 2

2009-08-16T10:43:00.006-05:00

The best of the best! Best of show winners on Fabrics and Threads Division.

Some quilts that I managed to browse. There's a lot more that I didn't able to take pictures, but I'll do that next week as I'm sure MIL want few photos for inspirations.

Below are some entries for the Crochet and Knitting Categories.

And of course, Needlepoint entries are must-look pieces.

The Counted Thread Embroidery category is one of my favorite.

I so enjoyed looking at these handmade purses, as part of Sewing Category. They're way better up close and personal. And there were purses i n the Crochet and Knitting Catogories as well, unfortunately, I didn't able to take pics of them. That's something I have to remind myself on friday.

I had so much fun on my "Finishing Techniques for Stitchery" class. I met wonderful stitchers,!Some of the students are not stitchers but were brave enough to enroll in the class. There were a set of friends (quilters) and sisters (one of which is into crochet). Thank you so much for enrolling in the class ladies. I hope you had fun too, and will manage to use what you learned when you get home. I can't wait to see your completed pieces so please don't forget to send me a photo or 2.

DH ate more than I did... of course, as he had a lot of time to kill while I was in the class. I had "pork chop on a stick" and a big cup of iced tea for lunch... my favorite at the Fair. After eating, I managed to take a glimpse of my 2 jewelry entries at the Creative Arts & Crafts Division. My piece for the "Needle Constructed Jewelry" won 3rd place, while for the "Stringing Technique" won 4th place. I was extremely happy with the result coz I know how talented the jewelry designers in Des Moines are. I was just expecting my pieces to be displayed (not rejected), yet they'll go home with a ribbon. I'll just share the photos next time as the pieces were all displayed under a glass... inside the cabinets.

Six out of eight entries for the Fabrics and Threads Division will go home with ribbons: 4 entries for the Counted Thread Categories all won (1st place on the set of 3 Ornaments) and only 2 out of 4 entries on the Cross Stitch won (1st place on the Pillow). That's the result of the friut of my labor from mid to end of July, as I devoted those 2 weeks stitching and finishing my pieces.

Aren't these marching geese adorable? We passed them by on our way back to the Varied Industries Building, around 1:15PM. They were guided by their master who's behind them. They were dressed with bandanas and some got a backpack. They sure made the onlookers smile!

And lastly, this is the parking lot looks like by mid-afternoon. I'm sure it's been like this by mid-morning. Some residents in the neighborhood converted their lawns into a parking space, and they're all full as well. This is the time of year where some of them earn extra $$$ by letting Fair-goers to rent a parking space in their lawns.

I have another photo to share on my next post, a silk pillow which I finished on Thursday afternoon at the Fair from "Heirloom Sewing" class. It's kinda like a patchwork piece. I can't wait to make more of them... sometime!

Have a great Sunday everybody!

2009 Iowa State Fair - Part 1

2009-08-16T09:17:00.008-05:00

Finally, the much awaited State fair has arrived. It was still dark outside when me and DH headed our way to Des Moines on August 13th. Before 6:30AM, we're already at the gate entrance at the further right side of the North Parking area. However, we did not go at the grandstand to watch Shawn Johnson and others. We simply sat at a bench where we watched a lot of kids having fun at the fountain area. As most of the buildings only opened at 9AM, we decided to look around, then spent (time and some $$$... LOL) at the Flea Market. By 8:45AM, we're already at the entrance of the Varied Industries Building (at the 2nd Floor are Fabrics and Threads exhibits)... where a lot of fairgoers who were so anxious to get inside the building are also waiting.

Me and DH made it first at the "Fabrics and Threads", as in we had to turn on the lights ourselves... Can you tell how anxious I was to see the displayed entries?

I will save some State Fair stories on my next post. For now, enjoy browsing the photos below. The first few photos are the Blue Ribbon winning entries in various categories, i.e. Cross Stitch, Counted Thread, etc.

Watch out for more needlework entries on my next post. I hope everybody's having a great stitching Sunday!

FIT Color Exchange From Rachel...

2009-08-13T20:06:00.008-05:00

... was waiting in our doorway when we got home from the State fair earlier, around 4PM. This is the first time I participated on a color exchange and I can attest, it's so much fun. And btw, I chose shades of purple for this exchange.

Once we got in inside the house, I had to rip the box right away. Rachel did a great job in wrapping each item. Here's the first scene:

Followed by lots of smalls packs. My fingers were so itchy to start opening each pack as I know a surprise will be revealed.

The personal supplies: a lovely and perfect size net pouch, gum and candies! All smell yummy-licious and I can't wait to try them all.

The craft supplies: a strand of variegated purple glass beads with a touch of green, a tube of blue moon purple beads, and various trimmings.

The office supplies: a list pad which I badly needed lately specially prior going to grocery store, a ruler which will sit behind me while stitching, various pens, and a post-it pad... all of course in shades of purple!

The knitted scarf: so soft and fluffy! The shape is like a ric-rac trimming. This will be perfect for the upcoming winter.

The dainty box: which I thought at first as a pincushion... LOL but then of course I realized it has something inside, not to mention Rachel advised me about a bracelet... and never did I imagine she made 2. how lucky could I be?

The netted bracelet made of pretty glass seed beads! I already sent n email to rachel earlier that I'll gonna wear this at the "Journey" concert on next next Sunday, last day of the Fair.

And last but not the least, the crocheted spiral rope in two-tone made of E-beads. I've been desperately forcing myself to make one of this last month to the point I stopped trying... coz I can't give my work a spiral look. Me and DH will go back at the Fair next week, and I gotta wear this piece to show it to my students.

Rachel went an extra mile in putting this package together and I'm very thankful for that. Everything is perfect, I couldn't ask for anything more. I can't wait to use all of the above.

Thank you so much for this wonderful exchange Rachel! But most of all, thanks for the friendship. I do appreciate it very much. Same goes to all of you out there, whom I've never met in person yet became my dear friends.

I have a lot other stories and photos to share, from the Fair, but that will wait till tomorrow! Not to mention I noticed that there's a lot of posts again at the EGA Group. I'm trying to read and monitor all the messages there since last month as I find them all interesting.

I hope everybody's having a great stitching week!

Quick Finishes And Veggies Galore

2009-08-12T14:05:00.004-05:00

Here's another batch of quick finishes... which I call no-brainer designs! Some were done months ago, but some few days ago.

One more day and it's Fair time already. I can't wait to see the various needleworks on display at the Fabrics & Threads Division - Varied Industries Building. Every year, it's the first and last building we visit... I can't just browse at them once.

MIL gave us a call yesterday as her garden is overflowing with veggies again. We picked up green beans, then DH digged some potatoes and carrots... lots of them. Needless to say, that's out lunch yesterday and today, along with a bunch of fried chicken I fixed yesterday afternoon. Before we went at MIL's house, we also picked some veggies from our garden. I got 3 yummy eggplants and a lot of cucumbers. I do really need to start making pickles, up to now, all I make are refrigirator pickles... so yummy!

It's so hot here now, and I think it will be hotter tomorrow. I hope everybody's having a great week. Happy stitching!

The Words Of Christmas Pillow

2009-08-09T18:30:00.003-05:00

The Words of Christmas Pillow

by Timber Creek Needleworks

Release Date: September 2009

I finished this piece a while back and the pattern will be available next month. It is embellished with beads and bead caps while the angel pins are optional. As always, it's a quick to stitch and easy to finish project. Perfect for the upcoming holiday.

Happy stitching!

Embroiderers' Guild Of America And Other Guilds

2009-08-09T18:11:00.004-05:00

I should have blog about this last month but got destructed with other things. The EGA's Yahoo group had an overwhelming discussion last month. I think since I joined the group last year, last month was the most post it had. I made it a point to read every message posted, and love them all... both the good and the bad, the advantages and disadvantages.

Places or countries that has guilds like this are lucky in my opinion. As a dear friend from Asia once told me, I'm lucky I belong to one or few embroidery organizations here in US coz they don't exist there... specially in the Philippines.

I have high respect to full-time working individuals yet have time to stitch or do other needleworks. Though I love embroidery when I was in grade school and high school, I never had the chance to revive my love of specialty stitches till I got here in the US 5 years ago. Imagine my amazement the first time I went at Hobby Lobby and JoAnn's... not to mention local needlework shops who carry yummy fabrics, linens, threads and patterns.

Back to the main topic, I would like to encourage you to join an organization if you want to learn further and if you're from US, UK, Canada or in a country that has embroidery guilds. It is really a wonderful learning experience to get involve and spend quality time with fellow embroiderers once in a while.

Have a great stitching week!

Roses Theme MA From Malaysia

2009-08-09T13:22:00.004-05:00

I recieved this pretty MA from Joanne of Malaysia mid-last week. I love it, as well as the beads, butterflies and threads. I can't wait to use the stash on my next project. I'm already thinking of weaving the beads into a bracelet and necklace set. Thank you so much for everything Joanne!

Roses Theme MA from Joanne of Malaysia

On the gardening side, we've been enjoying the "fruit of our labor" tremendously. I lost count how many cucumber and eggplants we already picked. I'm love eggplants the most as it's one of my fave veggy back home. I've had been enjoying them with my "burung isda"... yummy! Moreso, this is the first time we planted long-skinny cucumber and their great in refrigirator pickles as they're seedless. Although DH still prefer the regular ones on his salad.

2009 Garden - Cucumbers and Eggplants

On our way back home from PO the other day, a couple (they're farmers) in the neighborhood was selling freshly picked sweet corn. We, of course, had to stopped by and bought a sack (15 pieces/bag). Boy they're so yummy... and yes, they're all gone now.

2009 Sweet Corn

We're having storm on and off today, plus some rain which is good as our lawn and garden needs it. Just 3 more days and it's fair time already. I can't wait to see the lovely quilts, embroideries of all kinds and the jewelries that the talented Iowans submitted for display.

I hope everybody's having a great and relaxing Sunday... from our house to yours, Happy Stitching!

The Fine Art Of Philippine Embroidery

2009-08-04T17:42:00.004-05:00

Philippines has so much to offer when it comes to fine hand-embroidery... Though a lot of changes were made over the years, and that includes significant changes on the face of Philippine embroidery, there are still communities that continue the tradition in hand-embroidery.

The photos below are just examples of what embroiderers from Southern Luzon still do up to these days... hand-embroidered pina and jusi.

Can you imagine doing this tiny and detailed embroidery? This is what I'm planning to learn on my next trip back home. I will be spending some quality time in the community to study and do further research about our national cloth.

MIL's Chickenhouse And What Nots

2009-08-02T02:15:00.003-05:00

Me and DH spent some time at MIL's on Friday (July 31st) as her new chickenhouse is being built. The concrete for the flooring was delivered in the morning, and the men in the family has to be there to help. It has been a while since I saw concrete mix up close and personal. LOL It used to be a regular thingto see in my professiion back home. Not to mention the mixer are way way way bigger due to construction requirement on our projects. Anyway, MIL already raised chickens the other year, but when her new building was built early this year, the old chickenhouse had to go. I should have brought my camera to take pix of the pouring process ha! Oh wel...

On the stitching note, below is my current article at TGOSM. A needle etui and fob set. I stitched the set on Stitches & Spice fabric and hand-dyed threads. it is of course, another quick to stitch and finish project so I hope I'll see your completed pieces soon. Please don't forget to email me photos should you decide to stitch and finisht he set. I would really appreciate it.

A Stitcher Cannot Fail Sewing Set

Materials Supplier: Stitches and Spice

And here's one of my recent creation. Second in the series of the Treasure boxes. It was stitched on Irish Linen from Charles Craft using silk threads from Dinky Dyes, Sampler threads from Stitches and Spice, metallic thread from kreinik, and perle cotton from DMC. I will prepare thread recommendations from above mentioned suppliers so you can just get your supplies from one of them.

Her Highness Treasure Box

Stitched on Irish Linen

using silk, metallic, perle, and cotton threads

Stitches used: cross, kloster blocks, eye,

rhodes butterfly, thorn, spider web rose, and chain

Me and DH went to Des Moines yesterday (August 1st) morning as it's the submission date for Fabrics and Threads entries. I can't believe it's fair time again, and very excited to see all the entries. I didn't realize that I'll gonna recieve free entrance tickets and parking tickets so Imagine my surprise when they were given to me. Thanks so much Dorothy!

I will start to pack the materials for my classes tomorrow. The fabrics are already cut, but the fillings, stiffeners, needles and threads are still unsorted. Gotta spend at least 2 days to finalize all.

Happy weekend all!

Meet-up With Cheryl

2009-08-02T01:57:00.004-05:00

Me and Cheryl, a fellow Iowan from Le Claire, has been planning this meet-up since early last month. Finally, it materialize on Thursday, despite the fact that she has to drive more than 2 hours just to meet me. Thanks so much for that Cheryl. Your coming over is highly appreciated!

We spent some time at Walmart, on the craft section of course, and Cheryl ended up buying some lovely fabrics and finishing supplies. Afterwards, we had lunch at Applebee's then headed to the mall to talk about our stitching. I wish I brought WIP's with me as she got lots of them.:0 I enjoyed looking and drooling over her pieces, can't wait to see them all completed.

Also, Cheryl is my (recipient) partner on the Color Exchange at FIT Group. So the meet-up was perfect to hand-over her gifts.:) I made her a pagoda pincushion using green threads, an altoid tin top, and organize a lil' bit of stash. Unfortunately, I forgot to take photos so I have to wait till she upload pics in the group. I will then grab a photo or 2 to put in here.

Cheryl surprised me with an adorable needleroll, a nice fabric and an organizer. Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness and generosity Cheryl! I love everything to pieces. The needleroll was stitched and finished neatly, and is now the 2nd piece in my needleroll collection. I have to make more of these little things in the near future. The fabric is just perfect for the CQ sewing set I've been planning to make for a long time. LOL Now I really need to find time to start doing it. The organizer will surely put into good use, it's perfect to keep track on my exchanges and other stitching commitments.

Needleroll and Stash from Cheryl

I can't wait for the next or other meet-up.:) I really enjoyed it temendously! And once again, thanks so muchf for the lovely goodies.

Happy stitching everybody!

5 MA's To Texas, Malaysia And Singapore

2009-08-02T00:56:00.000-05:00

Here are the 5 MA's I mailed out last month, and fortunately, all of them were already recieved by the recipients. Now that's a big sigh of relief. Many thanks to Margaret for taking care of my Malaysia mail. Your help is really appreciated MW.:)

Initial and Sampler Theme MA's for July and August 2009

I signed up for 3 initial MA for month of July, and as I mentioned in my previous post last month, I mixed up with the dates. I stitched the Roses Theme and Sampler Theme way ahead of time compare to the Initial Theme which was supposed to be the first. I hope you likeyour new MA's and stash ladies. I did enjoy stitching all your pieces.

Initial MA for Dawn of Texas, USA

Stitched on 28 count yellow linen using DMC threads

Embelished with cluny lace

Initial MA for Lillie of Malaysia

Stitched on 28 count Mauve Quaker using DMC threads

Initial MA for Joanne of Malaysia

Stitched on 32 count Irish Linen using DMC Threads

Sampler MA for Margaret

Stitched on 28 count Mauve Quaker using DMC Threads

Sampler MA for Jean of Singapore
Stitched on 28 count Mauve Quaker using DMC threads

Have a great stitching weekend everybody!

Pagoda Craze Contest, Win One Year Subscription

2009-07-27T22:11:00.002-05:00

August 2nd midnight update:

ANNOUNCEMENT: The winner for the pagoda craze contest is Handy (Malou) of California. I picked another name for a winner of embroidery (stork) scissors, and the winner if Janet of Malaysia. Congrats ladies... and thanks so much to other participants.:)

July 27th Update: The pagoda today came from Jeanie of Singapore. I love it to pieces. Look at the beads Jeanie added on the corners of each roof. Brenda put beads on hers too. Thank you so much for sharing your lovely work Jeanie.

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July 25th Update: Lisa from Florida, USA finally have a go and finished her pagoda. Thank you so much for sharing your lovely piece Lisa!

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July 21th Update: Highlanders from USA also stitched the pagoda.
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July 13th Update: Judi from Perth, Western Australia joined the Pagoda craze. Check out her finished pincushion below. Thank you so much for the photos Judi.

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July 11th Update: My initial plan was to give away some stash but I decided to just give one year subscription of The Gift Of Stitching magazine instead. This way, the prize will be recieved by the winner asap. So come on, send me a photo of your finished pagoda or simply leave a comment to be included in the draw.

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Though I already posted these photos at my TCN blog, I thought it's worth to re-post them here. Wanna know what make my days lately? Stitchers all over the globe emailing me photos of their pagoda pincushions - one of my original finishing technique. Thank you so much ladies.

July 2nd: Stitched by Anne Marie of France

July 3rd: Stitched by Chizue of Japan

July 5th: Stitched by Brenda of London, England

July 9th: Stitched by Marie-Christine of France

July 9th: Stitched by Linda of USA

July 13th: Stitched by Judi of Perth, Western Australia

July 21st: Stitched by Highlanders of USA

July 25th: Stitched by Lisa of Florida, USA

July 27th: Stitched by Jeanie of Singapore

Aren't they simply pretty-licious pincushions? I would love to see more of your works so please keep the photos coming.

DETAILS OF THE CONTEST:

Prize: ONE YEAR SUBSCRIPTION TO TGOS MAGAZINE

Due Date: July 31st

Draw Date: August 1st

THE RULES:

1. Stitchers who completed any of my pagoda pincushion and emailed me a photo will have 2 chances of winning. You don't have to leave a comment, just email me your completed pagoda and you're in.

2. For others who wants to join the fun but didn't stitch the pagoda, just leave a comment and tell your friends about the contest.

This post will be updated as I recieve more photos.

Happy stitching everybody!

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PARTICIPANTS AS OF JULY 27TH:

Anne-Marie (2), Chizue (2), Brenda (2), Lillie (1), Marie-Christine (2), Linda (2), Paul (1), Janet (1), Astrid (1), Rhea (1), Judi (2), Charlene (1), Emily (1), Handy (1), Highlanders (2), Lisa (2), Jeanie (2)

* originally posted on 07/06/09

Frustrated

2009-07-27T21:07:00.002-05:00

I took a break from stitching earlier to check if I'll find a new finished pagoda. Yes, I found some... and I also found some stitchers publishing the tutorials on their blogs. I'm very frustrated right now.

Makes me wonder how many more will I find. Now I understand the dillema of other designers and teachers... they're afraid that their hardwork will be plastered all over the internet. I can't blame them why they prefer to focus on teaching.

Whenever one of my creation gets published on a magazine, I always offer help with regards to stitching and finishing aspect. I guess that's not enough!

Oh well, I'm so sorry for whining... I'm sure my disappointment will go away.

On the positive note, I'm still recieving queries about my recent sewing set published at Creative Embroidery & Cross Stitch magazine. Almost everyday, I read an email how much they're inspired to stitch the set. I can't wait to see a photo of your completed pieces ladies.:) And thank you so much for your emails. They're highly appreciated.

Happy stitching!

Pagoda Versions Of Anne Marie From France

2009-07-25T18:59:00.002-05:00

Anne-Marie has been busy stitching and finishing her own versions of the Pagoda. Thanks so much for sharing your lovely works Anne-Marie. I'm sure your friends who will recieve the pincushions will love them.

Pagoda Versions of Anne-Marie from France

Hope everybody's having a great stitching weekend!

Great Monday Mail Day: Surprises From Dinky Dyes

2009-07-15T11:13:00.002-05:00

I wish you can see how big my smile is after opening a package from Dinky Dyes. Jo sent me her entire line of silk threads! How cool is that? I had to admit I drooled over them for alonngggggggg time. LOL

Thanks so much for the threads Jo. I'm now reorganizing my new designs and will definitely stitch them with your fabulous silks. I can't wait to see a finished piece.

I hope everybody's having a great stitching day!

Initial Theme MA's From Malaysia

2009-07-15T10:59:00.006-05:00

Monday is one of my favorite days when it comes to mails. It's one of those days when I recieved surprises (at least most of the time).

Lillie of Malaysia stitched a fabulous "Initial Theme MA" for me, in red shades. She's a great stitcher as well as a great finisher. Part of the exchange rule is to include some stash and she pampered me with those. I love everything Lillie, and thanks so much for stitching a wonderful MA for me.

Another "Initial Theme MA" that arrived on Monday was from Aw of Malaysia. It looks like Aw knows that I'm on purple galore lately. I even sign-up for a color exchange (at FIT Group) and purple was my choice of color. Aw stitched both my initials, which is an option in the exchange rule, and did a great job both on stitching and finishing. She also sent me a lizard key chain and a ribbon work which according to her was done by her DD's. So sweet of them, if only I could give them a hug right now. Please tell your DD's thank you so much. I love what they did for me and I love it very much.From the bottom of my heart, thanks so much for these MA's ladies. I will treasure them forever, as well as the friendship we have.

Happy stitching!

An Award And Other Stuffs

2009-07-11T03:51:00.005-05:00

Astrid emailed me over a week ago about this award -Have a Wonderful Day Award. Unfortunately, I was extremely busy finishing some models that I didn't able to post about it right away. Thank you so much for the award Astrid. I am honor that you included me in the list.

There's a lot of blogs from all sorts of crafts that I admire therefore picking only 8 is extremely hard. Therefore, I'm giving this award to everybody who wanna grab it and please post it on your blog.

I ordered another batch of books from CVCEGA and I got them all in the mail few days ago. They range from needlepoint, hardanger, cross stitch and reference books. I enjoyed browsing them but one of my fave from this batch is the "Free Embroidery Stitches by Mary Hickmott". The pocketbook size is perfect to carry in purse.

Needlework Books from CVCEGA

My fingers has been busy stabbing linen the last two weeks as I had to finish some models for magazine publication, and some exchanges. My models went in the mail by mid-week, and now I'll be able to work on the next batch. I'm currently finishing some models for Embroidery & Cross Stitch magazine, which has been long overdue. The finishing technique I'm trying on is kinda new to me, and that slows my production. As I've mentioned before, I wanna perfect my technique so I can answer any queries from cutomers. It's the main reason why I prefer to do my models, though there were times that I'm considering hiring stitchers to increase my finishing time. Maybe in the future...:)

July Packages

We have lots of mulberry trees in our yard and there's this particular tree that gives us lots of them each year. Last week, me and DH picked a lot as majority are already ripe. By the time we stopped picking, our fingers are kinda purple already as they stain.

2009 Mulberries

That's all for now everybody! A wonderful stitching day to all!

Initial MA Theme From Malaysia

2009-07-11T03:37:00.003-05:00

I recieved this wonderful MA from Joanne of Malaysia last Monday. She stitched both my initials and were both adorned with flowers, perfect for summer. Thank you so much for stitching this for me Joanne. I love everything in it. The stash will be use pretty soon. I love those sheep clips, they're so cute.:)

Initial Theme MA from Joanne of Malaysia

Recieved July 6th, 2009

Happy stitching everybody!

Birthday Gift For Dane Of Germany

2009-07-11T03:17:00.005-05:00

I signed-up on a 2009 birthday exchange late last year and Dane, from Germany, is my partner. This month is her birthday and she advised me last week that she already recieved the package I sent her. Photos below are the contents. I stitched one of my sewing set designs, Summer Flower, though I did some changes here and there to make it different plus I added a measuring tape case (with measuring tape inside). Hope you enjoy your gifts Dane.:)

Summer Flowers Sewing Set

Stitching Stash as part of the gift

Happy birthday!

Happy 4th of July

2009-07-04T17:33:00.003-05:00

If only my maternal grammy is alive today, she's supposed to be 81 years young. She passed away on 2000, 2 years after my grandpa died. She's a very very good cook and is always willing to lend a helping hand to family, friends, immediate and far relatives. Happy birthday Apu! You will be missed always.

My Maternal Grandparents

On the positive note, my paternal grandma is still alive. She just turned 93 years a couple months ago, but per my teleconversation with my father last weekend, her health has been deteriorating really bad lately. She didn't even able to attend my niece's birthday, which she always does in the past.

My Paternal Grandmother

Happy 4th of July everybody!

Wonderful Book Stash

2009-07-03T14:39:00.005-05:00

I have been on stashing diet for a long while now since my suppliers are sooooooo kind enough to provide the materials for my models. Thank you so much to Charles Craft and Stitches & Spice.

I've been in book heaven since I recieved these needlework related books in the mail on Wednesday... a total of 29 books. LOL They were left-over from the garage sale of the EGA chapter I'm into. Proceeds of the sale will be donated to the EGA chapter. I'm extremely happy with my purchase as majority of them are Dover Needlework Series, in which I started collecting years ago. Majority of the books were published on 1960's & 1970's, a big big plus. I love old books, period!

Needlework Books from CVCEGA Members

I wish I could complete my collection of SANQ as well but with no luck. I try to bid at ebay once in a while they go really high at times (at least the ones I want).

How about you fellow fabric stabbers, what's your new needlework/stash purchase that you enjoy most lately?

Roses Theme MA for Anastasia of Kentucky

2009-07-02T13:30:00.000-05:00

Somehow I mixed up the dates of the MA exchanges and I thought this MA was due last month, instead of end of July. I think my exchange partner was surprise to recieve it early. Moreso, I started to think it gone MIA (missing-in-action)... but thank goodness it arrived on its destination safely as it was mailed AS IS.

House Theme MA for Anastasia of Kentucky

Main Motif: Whimzi Rose of Just Nan

The main design is a freebie design from Just Nan while the dainty roses are my own. This is the first time I stitched on 18 count fabric, and I had to used pearl cotton instead of stranded floss. I thought of finishing it a little different so I added ribbon trimmings on the flap for extra fling. The inside lip was also embellished with cluny lace. It's a quick project but I had fun finishing it.

I hope you like your new MA Anastasia. Enjoy!

House Theme MA from Singapore

2009-07-01T14:32:00.003-05:00

I should have posted this MA days ago but was busy on something. Jean, from Singapore, sent me this adorable quaker-inspired House MA. I love it Jean and the stash that goes with it. Thank you so much for stitching this for me Jean. I love it... and will definitely treasure it.

House Theme MA from Jean of Singapore

Main Motif: Quaker House of CHS

Once again, I'm busy stitching some MA's for Initial theme as I signed-up for not 1, not 2, but 3. LOL So I better get back stitching to finish them all on the due date... as I can see myself stitching more models in the weeks ahead.

Happy stitching everybody!

Happy Birthday To Our Princess Back Home

2009-06-22T13:54:00.002-05:00

It seems like it's only yesterday when this little girl was born... and today, she celebrates one of her biggest birthday party ever. Her mom is my younger sister. I managed to call her last night to greet her a happy birthday, though our conversation was cut short as the clowns they rented just started to do a show at that time.

Whenever I call home, I would talk to her the longest as she's the one who's giving me the full details of what's going on there. LOL She would even tell me secrets, then my mom and my sisters would be surprise how did I found out this and that. One time, she was about to tell me a secret then I heard her telling my mom and her mom to go away 9i.e. get out of the house) so they won't hear what she'll gonna tell me. She's only 3 years old then... LOL But of course they didn't actually leave her alone, they just hid behind the doors and so they can hear what she'll gonna say coz they were thrilled.

She's now on the second grade and has been in the honor roll since kinder. She started to collect medals at early age coz she get rewards for doing great in school. Though we don't really expect her to do so as she's one of the youngest in her grade. Most of her classmates are a year older than her.

One of my fave hobby when I just got here in US was digital scrapbooking... I need to pick-up that hobby as a lot of family memorable photos are overflowing. Anyway, let me walk you through to her transformation. This photo is her first ever photo. She was just about few hours old when I took it. The first thing I did though when the nurse brought her into the room was count her fingers and toes. LOL Not to mention I wanna make sure she's fine... my sister had a CS operation and was groggy days. Me and my parents spent all the time at the hospital.

The next photo is one of my favorite. She's not even one year old here, and I think no tooth yet as well. LOL Can you tell? I took it few days before my wedding, at my parental house.

Since I wasn't working anymore when she was born, we manage to spend a lot of time together. My mom was the one who's taking care of her in the province during weekdays, but we often take her to Manila and spend some time in my apartment. This photo was taken in my room, she loves playing with my office swivel chair.

And this photo I think is taken in the kitchen in my parent's house. If I remember it right, she was holding a balloon on stick here. LOL

This photo taken on November 2006 was when she was one of the muses in a parade. She was 4 years and 5 months old then. This photo was just the start of many more photos of her wearing gowns. Since then, whenever a relative or family friends get married, they would get her as one of the flower girls, not to mention there's a lot of parade during summer, i.e. Cingko de Mayo, etc. Her hair now is much much much longer. She want it to be really long. Given the chance, I think she likes it to be curled too. LOL

More digital scrapbooking photos taken on 2004 & 2005.

And finally, here she is with her Tita... me on my wedding day. Though she's only few months old, I thought it would be a neat idea for her to be my flower girl. Her dad has to carry her down the isle as she wasn't walking then yet. LOL

Happy happy birthday our dear precious niece. We love you so much! Muaaahhhhzzz from Tito Tib (her short version for DH name) and Tita Lody.

English - Tagalog - Kapampangan

Aunt - Tita, Tiya - Dada, Dara

Uncle - Tito, Tiyo - Bapa

Father, Daddy - Ama, Tatay - Tatang

Mother, Mommy - Ina, Nanay - Inda, Ima

Sibling - Kapatid - Kapatad

Birthday - Kaarawan - Kebaytan

One - Isa, Uno - Metung, Unu

Two - Dalawa, Dos - Adaw, Dos

Three - Tatlo, Tres - Atlu, Tres

Four - Apat, Kwatro - Apat, Kwatru

Five - Lima, Singko - Lima, Singku

Six - Anim, Sais - Anam, Sais

Seven - Pito, Syete - Pitu, Syeti

Eight - Walo, Otso - Walu, Otsu (Ochu)

Nine - Siyam, Nuebe - Siyam, Nuebi

Ten - Sampu, Diyes - Apulu, Diyes

Filigree Charmed Drum By Anne-Marie

2009-06-12T19:21:00.003-05:00

I seldom share other stitchers works in here unless I recieved it as an exchange, but I though this is worth the sharing. Isn't it a wonderful piece? More photos at TCN Blog. Thank you so much for sharing your lovely work Anne-Marie.

Filigree Charmed Drum - A Scissors Display Case

Stitched by Anne-Marie of France

On the family side, relatives (MIL's brother & SIL, Uncle D & Aunt B) from AZ are here for a week visit. They got here in IA on Tuesday night. We had breakfast with them at Perkins yesterday morning then another get together in the afternoon at Aunt R's (MIL's other sibling) house. Some of MIL's cousins from mother side were also there. By the time we decided to part ways, I think it was 9PM already. It was such a great family gathering all in all... as we get to spend time with them (mostly) once a year only.

Have a great weekend everybody!

A Fabulous Stashing Weekend

2009-06-09T15:39:00.005-05:00

Last weekend was the first time this year that we (me and DH) went on a yard sale. It was of course craft related. I got a bunch of vintage magazines, patterns and books ranging from quilting, sewing, and cross stitch. I also got yardages of fabrics and some knick-knacks which I couldn't resist. I look forward formore craft related yard sale in the coming weeks.

Some Stash from Yard Sale

I attended a Tax Session at the local library this morning conducted by Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) of Des Moines. Most participants are small business owners and representatives of various corporations. I'm so glad I signed up for this session as I gained lots of knowledge about do's and don't of tax related stuffs. We had 3 speakers, who were all fabulous. Thanks IWD!

And finally, a new HP desktop! DH ordered it from Tiger Direct on June 2nd, then it arrived on June 3rd. Since then, I've been busy sorting and transferring files from our old PC to an external hard drive. Hopefully, I get everything done tonight so we can switch to the new one this week.

HP Desktop

I did lots of stitching last week and hope to do the same this week. I hope everybody's having a great stitching day.

My First Ever Exchange: A Cushion Cover

2009-06-01T12:09:00.006-05:00

I meant to blog about this last year (as in really...) but ended up forgetting it. This is my first ever exchange, on August 2007 from NNC group. Barbara - or BJ as we call her - stitched me this adorable cushion cover. Isn't it lovely? The stitching is just perfect and I love the color combination.

10" x 10" Cushion Cover Exchange

From Barbara of Malaysia

My recipient partner on this exchange is Charlene of Malaysia. Never did I imagine that postal service in Malaysia is worst than back home. Here's the (first) cushion cover I made for Lene, which unfortunately gone MIA (missing in action). It was sent via flat-rate global priority mail, and using the tracking number that goes with the flat rate envelope, USPS record says the package reached the postal office destination in Malaysia. I therefore conclude that the package was stolen by a postal office staff. If by any chance you'll see this cushion cover on somebody's house, do not hesitate to let them know that it is a stolen piece.

Lost Cushion Cover for Lene

As a rule, I had to re-stitch a second piece, but this time I used a different address. Thanks to MW for letting us use her residence address. Finally, Lene recieved her cushion cover.:)

Cushion Cover Replacement for Lene

Happy exchanging!

Gifts For Friends And Some Beadworks

2009-05-31T10:20:00.010-05:00

I'm wrapping up my May finishes with some gifts for friends. I'm actually way way way behind with these stuffs and I was sure glad when I had the chance to finally make them. Hopefully I'll be able to drop them in the mail today, or to be safe, within this week.

Beadworks by Lody

Bracelets made of glass pearls, AB crystals,

charms, and swarovski crystals

Techniques: Stringing, Peyote, and Off-loom Weaving

These last couple of days, I've been busy stitching MA's as I want to send them of to my partners by June, though due dates are July and August. Once all my current MA commitments are done, I might have to take a break from signing-up so I can focus on my other WIP stitching.

If things will go according to plan, I'm hoping that my entire month of July will be devoted to my State Fair entries. The new categories I'm positive of submitting is "Creative Arts and Crafts", for beadworks & paper crafts divisions. For beadworks, I'm leaning towards "needle constructed jewelries" and "stringing" classes. For paper crafts, I'm hoping I can come up with great ideas on photo scrapbook pages for 4 classes.

And lastly, I gave my Pearly Shell pendant a new look by replacing the necklace chain. The beaded beads were made of mahogany mix seed beads using peyote stitch. For a little sparkle, I also added little swarovski crystals on the antique gold spacers. I also made a matching bracelets, and probably I'll complete the set with a pair of earrings.

PEARLY SHELL - a new look

encrusted pendant, necklace & bracelet

Beadworks by Lody

Hope everybody's busy needling!

New Fabric Stash

2009-05-30T10:04:00.004-05:00

Here's another batch of fabrics I got yesterday. I wanted more but limit myself on 4 kinds only. The last 3 are 100% cotton, while the first one in the photo is poly-cotton with a linen look. I might try to stitch a counted thread design on it or simply use it as lining material.

May 2009 fabric stash

DH sprayed weeds on the ditches yesterday morning then spotted some asparagus, so we went asparagus hunting in the afternoon. This is the first year I got some asparagus from the ditches in our area... and they sure taste good!

Asparagus from the ditches

Have a great stitching weekend everybody!

Missing My (Grandpa) APU...

2009-05-25T21:53:00.007-05:00

... very very much! He was such a very good man, though a man of few words. He loves to spoil her grandkids in every way he can. It was so hard to see him suffer from Alzheimers.:( I still can't believe he's been gone for more than 11 years.

My Maternal Grandparents... both terribly missed!

If only my maternal grandpa and uncle (my Apu's junior) are alive today, they'll be 83 & 50 respectively. Today is their birthday, and share the same name as well. My uncle died of cancer on May 16, 1992 at the age of 33, while my Apu died on April 21, 1998. Happy birthday to 2 good men!

English-Tagalog-Kapampangan Vocabulary:

grandfather, grandmother = lolo, lola = apu

uncle = tito, tiyo = bapa

dead = patay = mete

Tagalog is the national language in the Philippines, while Kapampangan (which I speak) is the dialect in Pampanga (northern part of Luzon) and other provinces in Region 3 of Luzon.

Seahorse, More Jewelry Sets And Some News

2009-05-25T20:49:00.004-05:00

Seahorse is my first project from an EGA class so I wanted to make sure the project won't sit on my WIP basket. I managed to complete all the stitches early last week and will finish it as a display pillow, though I was thinking of finishing it as a purse as well.

Seahorse by Lynne Payette

I love making handmade items for family members here so I made another jewellery set (bottom left) for Aunt R (MIL's sister) as part of her birthday gifts. We had the gathering at her house on May 17th and I was in-charge on the strawberry shortcake. Here's are some of the beadworks I finished recently.

Jewellery Sets: Peyote

Another batch of Mother of Pearl thread holders arrived last week so I'm busy re-packing again. These are all earth colors now (aside from ivory) as I stopped ordering vibrant colors. These will be available in my shop, Lody's Creations, in retail and wholesale.

Mother of Pearl Thread Holders

We attended the funeral service of Grandpa Cliff (died on May 16th at the age of 89), a family friend, on May 22nd and I finally met all her 5 kids for the first time. This is the 3rd time I attended a funeral in my last 4 years here in the US.

On the stitching note, I just read an email from Kirsten (TGOSM editor) that she saw one of my sewing set in the cover of Embroidery & Cross Stitch Magazine (an Australian publication). That news put a big smile on my face as usual. My first sewing set published at ECS magazine was also in the cover though it's at the bottom part. Thank you ECS. I can't wait to recieve my copy of the magazine. I have another set ready for submission, just needing some tweeking here and there.

Happy stitching everybody!

House Theme MA To Texas

2009-05-15T20:31:00.004-05:00

Here's another MA I participated in for this month, mailed on May 6th. My partner is Martha from Texas and I was advised she recieved the package on May 11th. This is the first time I mailed my MA as is and I was sure glad it reached its destination safely.

House Theme MA for Martha of Texas

Today is fiesta day in my barangay back home, San Isidro. I'm sure everybody there is enjoying yummy foods.

Have a great day everybody!

backdated post: 25th May 2009

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T19:52:00.002-05:00

Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers out there.

We went at MIL's house yesterday to drop off her presents. In the past, I just usually make bracelets for MIL so I decided to give her a complete set this time. The set is made of silver seed beads, pearls, and pewter charms. I stitched her initial and mounted it on a tin box which served as the gift box for the jewellery set. The box is lined and padded with ribbon to hold scissors or box of needle so she can use it for her sewing knick-knacks.

Jewellery Set for MIL

Techniques: Off-loom beadweaving, Peyote, & Stringing

Aside from the above, we also got her bunches gardeing stuffs like flower bulbs, potting soil, and a big wine barrel pot. One of her quilting friend from out-of-town was visiting that weekend so I made her a bracelet (left) using gold seed beads, pearls and antique gold metal charms. I enjoyed making these kind of bracelets so I made one for me myself (right). I accented mine with carrot freshwater pearls though.

Bracelets for me and Nona

Less than 30 minutes when we get home, DH's bestfriend called. He wanted to make sure somebody's home when he drop by to give us a bag of wild mushrooms. He loves going in the field to hunt for wild mushrooms and usually gives me and MIL a bag each when he gets a lot. Fortunately, he's always gets lucky.:) Anyway, these mushrooms didn't stay long in the fridge as I had to cook them right away. LOL I usually season and coat them with flour, eggs, salt & pepper then fry them with EVOO. The photo may not look good but they sure were yummy.

Wild Mushrooms from DH's Bestfriend

We went in Ames on May 7th to get some veggies/plants for our garden. I think we're the first customers in Holubs that day as we left home early. I planted 3 kinds of eggplants (satin beauty, purple touch and japanese eggplant) , 6 kinds of peppers (mostly bellpeppers for my salsa canning), lots of asparagus beans ("sitaw"), okra, plus of course the other regulars like cucumber, green beans, tomatoes (DH was in charge of them), and lots of greens (mustard, spinach, and radish).

Our strawberries our doing better this year so I hope to harvest more... I only got few last year. MIL has a good patch of asparagus in her yard but has to harvest them everyday otherwise "asparagus hunters" will get them. This is the time of year that I eat lots of asparagus as MIL is overflowing with them.

Well, I hope you're all having a great stitching day!

backdated post: 25th May 2009

Enjoying Spring With A Good Mail Day

2009-05-06T19:29:00.004-05:00

DH finally mowed on the first week of this month as wildflowers (particularly dandelions) are conquering our lawn. Here are a couple of wildflower photos from our backyard. I couldn't resist not staring at them after working in the garden, so might as well take a some shots.

Wildflowers from our backyard

Carolyn, Jodi's mom, surprised me with a walnut bird thread holder. It is of course one of lovely handworks of Max. Check out their website for the complete selection of neeedlework accessories made from walnut. Thank you very very much Carolyn.

Walnut Thread Holder from Bloom Woodworks

I also recieved my recent copy of SANQ magazine the same day I got the thread holder, on May 4th. It was indeed a good mail day!

My needles are still flying high... lots of stitching works that needs to be done. Write later!

backdated post: 25 May 2009

2009 EGA Heartland Region Seminar - Part 2: The Merchandise Night

2009-04-25T08:01:00.002-05:00

One of the main reason of attending the seminar is so I could participate on the Merchandise Night. Though the "selling time" is 6PM to 9PM, sellers were allowed to take their stuffs in hours before 6PM. After arranging my stuffs on the table, I did a quick browse on other sellers tables. I was on Table 14, in-between Bloom Woodworks and MN Guild & Marge. I enjoyed a quick chat with Tanja, one of the fabulous designers I highly respect. I love her goldworks but I know I can't do them on my own. I had been a frequent visitor of her website and admire her works so much. Her class was one of my first choices to enroll, unfortunately, I can only attend the Thursday event. Anyway, I had to drool over Tanja and Deanna Powell's works. Such amazing needle artists.

My table at the Merchandise Night

The Merchandise Night was such a fun event for me. Though it's my first time, I felt like I've been doing it for so long. I "almost" talked non-stop when the stitchers started to browse the tables. But of course I love talking about anything, specially needlework finishings. It was overwhelming to hear from fellow stitchers how interested they are on my hand finishings. The pattern and instructions for my crooked box made its mark and was sold out right away. I really made a good decision for submitting one of them in the exhibit. Moreso, I brought most of my smalls models and put them on top of their respective patterns. I guess that really help the stitchers to decide whether they'll gonna buy the pattern or not. I even heard some of them said they gotta buy the pattern just because they love the colors. LOL Isn't that amazing? I guess we stitchers really have different priorities and considerations in buying a pattern. But most of the questions I recieved was "How did you do this?" and "Will I able to do it?". So once in a while, I showed a demo using paper blocks. LOL It's like a music in my ear when a stitcher ask me such questions.

When I saw these strawberry pincushions at Max stuffs, I knew I have to get them. LOL They're such a cutie, aren't they?

Strawberry Pincushions

Max and his magnificent works

I was extremely excited when I heard that Bloom Woodworks will be there... In fact, I anticipated that Jodi, Max daughter, will be there too as we've been emailing for months now and haven't met in person. But then I managed to finally meet her wonderul parents and had a wonderful time chatting with her mom... before and after the "selling time". She's such a charming lady and we chat whenever we get the chance.:)

On the positive note, I sold a bunch of Mother of Pearl Thread Holders (I think almost 100 packs), patterns, embellishments, charms, fat quarters, skirtex, crushed walnut shells, etc. I can see myself attending another Merchandise Night in the future... but only time will tell when will it be.

To everybody who made this event possible, thank you to all of you. Part of me stayed when we had to go home yesterday.

And to everybody who bought anything from me, specially patterns, thank you so much from the b ottom of my heart. You made my selling experience an overwhelming one. Please do not hesitate to let me know if you encounter any problems or errors on my finishing instructions. I am here to help... send me an email or mail and I would loveto answer your queries. I will set-up a Yahoo Group exclusive for my designs so we can discuss all the problems you encounter on my hand-finishing techniques.

Happy stitching everybody!

2009 EGA Heartland Region Seminar Report - Part 1

2009-04-25T06:07:00.005-05:00

First of all, I want to applaud everybody who made this event a success. Congrats to all of you! I Attending this event is such an overwhelming experience for me. As a first timer attendee, I didn't know what to expect... I was even a little nervous on my way to the registration coz I don't personally know anybody there aside from Sally, who I correspond with via email regularly.

We (me and DH) headed our way to Cedar Rapids on Wednesday afternoon as DH doesn't wanna leave early in the morning of Thusday. He's not quite familiar with the area and doesn't want me to be late on my class (Thursday), though our "class angel" (which happened to be my seatmate) was advised that I'll be a little late. We stayed at a hotel close to Marriott where the event is, so I could just walk over. I guess it was the extreme excitement that woke me up around 4 AM. The registration is 7AM to 8AM, and I was already there around 7:15. That's when I started putting faces on fellow CVCEGA members. Shiela and Linda were at the registration desk, and Shiela advised me right away that she's the one who recieved my ornament last December. As hours passed by, I felt like completing a puzzle by putting faces on the names I know through our chapter's newsletter. LOL

Anyway, I was the first one to arrived in the class and managed to take some photos of the classroom. Moreso, since I brought beading materials, I thought I'll do some encrusting while waiting. But as other students started to get in, they kept asking me if that's part of the class... so I decided to put away my beadworks before they get confused. LOL Marge, Phyllis, and other fellow CVCEGA members are on the same class... another puzzle solved, face-wise.

The Iowa City Room which is also called Room 202

That's my stuffs on the left

The ironing area which wasn't used

I don't have a lamp so I chose a well-lighted area. Lynn was such a fabulous teacher... so sweet... and very helpful. There was no boring moment, and she got a lot of stories to share. The instructions were very clear and I can see myself using the stitches I learned on my future designs, specially the raised chain stitch. In fact, I already have an idea on what my next design would be... LOL Rachel, you are so right that Lynn is a wonderful teacher. Seahorse is a not that big and is really doable... As I told Lynn, I won't frame my piece but I'm thinking of finishing it as a purse or as a pillow. It is such a charming project and I can't wait to get it done.

My stitching accomplishment during the class...

... which I hope to look like this when I get it done

After the class, I rushed at the bookstore and exhibit room. I managed to browse everything and admire every piece on display. It's a heavenly place full of wonderful needlearts.

As I already mentioned before, I submitted 3 pieces for the exhibit (maximum submission is 3):

1. Simply Gold Jewellery Set - using encrusting embroidery & peyote stitches

2. Ort or Crooked Box - won blue ribbon at 2008 State Fair

3. My Favorite Things - my design published at Embroidery & Cross Stitch Magazine (an Australian publication)

My pieces at the Exhibit Room

While I was browsing the books, there's this wonderul lady who asked me if I'll gonna sell a pattern for my "Ort Box". She said that she's very much interested with that piece and like the finishing idea so much. Unfortunately, that piece is full of specialty stitches and I'm still working on the pattern, but I offered her my other design with similar finishing. I guess my ort box caught attention of many stitchers in the exhibit room coz during the Merchandise Night, the design with similar finishing was sold out.

Again, I enjoyed the seminar and can see myself attending more in the future. I hope next time I'll be able to enroll on one of Tanja Berlin's classes. I'm like an avid fan of a famous matinee idol. Tanja, of course, is the idol. LOL

My next post will be about the Merchandise Night. Happy stitching everybody!

Coffee And Tea MA Now In Finland

2009-04-21T18:16:00.004-05:00

Me and my partner for the above mentioned MA mailed and recieved our MA's on the same dates. Here's the MA I stitched for Mari. The main motifs were from Friendship Tea of CEC. I already stitched the entire design before and mounted it on a wooden tea box.

I love finishing my MA's into a sewing purse, so I did the same on this one. I put 3 Mother of Pearl thread rings under the flap, and a cluny lace at fold-line to secure the threads inside the purse. The lip of the flap was also embellished with lace. It closes with a couple of ribbon ties embellished with pink pearls, and magnetic strips which can also hold loose needles while stitching, that is if Mari will use the MA as a sewing purse.

Coffee & Tea MA, decorative pins or counting pins, packs of tea,

a pack of thread rings, primitive print fat quarter, and variegated DMC flossCoffee & Tea MA - Front
Coffee & Tea MA - Back

Happy stitching everybody!

EGA 2009 Heartland Region Seminar...

2009-04-21T16:54:00.003-05:00

... is finally here! I am extremely excited as it's the first time I'll gonna attend a stitching class from EGA. If somebody out there is also attending the seminar and exhibit, we might bump with each other. The seminar is in Marriott Hotel - Cedar Rapids. I can't wait to spend quality time with fellow stitchers. After the class, I'll definitely participate at the Studio Time. LOL

We picked-up a map earlier at Staples as DH is thinking of spending 2 nights there... though I really want to just go there by Thursday morning, so we'll see.

Have a great week everybody!

Filigree Charmed Drum - A Scissors Display Case

2009-04-20T18:06:00.007-05:00

When I recieved this fabric (in the background) from Jodi last December, I knew I'll gonna use it in my smalls. Well, not only I used it but it's also the inspiratiion for this scissors drum. I love all the antique shades in the fabric that I matched them with DMC floss.

The Finishing Idea: As you already know, I love to experiment on hand finishings, and I try to come up with new ideas. I usually gather my materials first then start working from there. I've always wanted to make a case that could showcase fancy scissors, and I think this drum will do the trick.

With 20 blocks I had to stitch, I knew I have to keep the design super simple and quick to stitch to prevent the project on ending in my WIP basket. I had similar experience when working on the "Woven Ribbons" 15-sided biscornu. I got bored a lil bit in the stitching process yet so excited to see the finish product... and I have to admit I love it.

A funny story: Right after finishing the piece, I asked DH what he thinks it is... I always ask him the same whenever I'm working on a new idea. His answer was: "It's a crown Honey!" LOL I looked at the top view of the piece again and I realized, it does really look like a crown when it's empty. I guess when you're working on a specific piece and have the sole idea in mind, you miss the chance of considering other things.

Filigree Charmed Drum - A Scissors Display Case

by Timber Creek Needleworks

The drum with scissors

So how about you guys, what do you think it looks like? I would love to hear your interpretation. Happy stitching!

Update: April 21, 2009

Leslie, Lillie & Rachel - Thanks for your comments. I'm sure DH will be happy that he's not the only one thinking it's a crown. LOL On the other hand, the 5 pockets are big enough to hold other things such as thread, buttons or pack of needles... and the top part can be use as a pincushion.

Coffee And Tea MA From Finland...

2009-04-20T16:53:00.003-05:00

... stitched by Mari arrived in the mail today!

Thanks so much for the lovely MA Mari. I haven't tried making an MA with the kind of fabric you used, and now I know it can be done. I have yardages of similar fabric in my stash but dunno what to do with it. I can't wait to try the tea, just looking at the packaging I know they're yummilicious. And of course, thanks so much for the pattern, it's so cute. I love everything.

Coffee & Tea MA from Mari of Finland

Back Side
Front Side
Design by Lizzie Kate

I've wanted so long to participate in MA exchanges and when MW (owned by Lillie) invited me to join their private group, I was excited of course. I didn't waste any time and signed-up right away on a couple of on-going exchanges. I'm currently working on the next exchange which is House Theme, and will be due on May 10th. I look forward to participate on more MA's, that's for sure.

Have a great stitching week everybody!

Fabulous Birthday Gifts from Canada

2009-04-17T21:02:00.007-05:00

Today is one of the best days ever... Thanks so much to Kathy for making it possible! I wish you can see my smile from ear-to-ear since I recieved your package from the mailbox earlier Kathy.

I know I'm way behind on exchanges compare to most of wonderful stitchers I met online over the past few years, so I decided to participate on a birthday gift exchange this year at Friends in Thread Group. Without a doubt, everybody there have one thing in common... very creative. And what you'll see below proves me really right. If you wanna see more of Kathy's lovely works, don't forget to check out her blog here. She does various needlecrafts and excels at all of them.

Kathy really went extra mile in preparing everything. When I opened the envelope, a couple packages revealed.

One package contains the following wonderful gifts: Halloween sewing set and yummy stash. Kathy really paid attention on what I want, as I mentioned in the past that it's high time I have to start my Halloween collection. I have to admit that at first, when I learned that majority in the FIT group collects Halloween theme pieces, a big question mark popped in my head. But as I go along reading their halloween project posts... looking at their oh so pretty finishes and ways of displaying their works, I realized what they are talking about. Needless to say I am in!

The set includes a purse (big enough to hold all the accessories, yehey!), a needlecase, a scissors case, and a fob.... and is stitched on orange fabric and black thread. The fringed which is made of "beads on beads" really added extra dimension and adorn the set perfectly. This may sound weird to others, but one of the first thing I checked on the stitched pieces was the initials. So imagine how happy I was when I found Kathy's, between the witch's foot and the broom on photo above.The finishing is so neat and perfect... every finishing stitch is on the right place.

I wish I could deliver a clear photo of the scissors for you to see how pretty it is. Kathy must have known I love embroidery scissors, but then who doesn't, right? LOL The inside of the needlecase is just stunning! The felt page was trimmed in a pumpkin shape with leaves on top.

Yummy stash: Mother of Pearl beads, a Mill Hill Pin kit, and size 28 DMC tapestry needles.

And finally the second package contains more stash. A cashel linen on my fave count, various hand-dyed threads, pretty magnets, and L-shape post-it.

So what can you say guys, am I spoiled or what?:) One thing is sure, I am blessed with wonderful friends and am now in cloud 9 of happiness. Words could not express how thankful I am with everything Kathy. From the bottom of my heart, thank you sooooooooooo much.

Everything I recieve will be well treasured and the card included in the package is no exception. The message is simply perfect so I thought I'll share it with you.

"It's the friends we meet along life's path who help us appreciate the journey."

That is why we need friends in our life's journey... and as another saying goes, FRIENDS are kisses blown to us by angels.

Happy stitching everybody!

2009 State Fair Teaching Pieces

2009-04-17T20:30:00.002-05:00

I've been corresponding once again to Dorothy (State Fair's Fabrics and Threads Division In-charge) since early this month about my hand-finishing classes. I started making itty-bitty models few months back which include biscornus, matress-style pincushions, rings fobs, pinkeeps, needlecases, scissors cases, etc. with monogram and quaker motifs, and without fancy embellishments. I was trying to make projects that can be done in a couple of hours or less. Though I finished majority of the pieces in alloted time, I know that not everybody can stitch & finish as fast as me. So I suggested to Dorothy that I will ask the students to skip the stitching part and proceed right away at the finishing as it's the main focus of the class. But still, I will give each student a complete kit to finish one project. Quite frankly, I'm not really sure if there'll be students who will enroll in my class, nor interested in hand-finishing. LOL On the positive side, Dorothy said she's interested and will enroll on my classes so that's a good sign.

Models for Finishing 101

For a recap, here's my classes details:

Dates: August 13 and August 21, 2009 (AM & PM Classes)

Morning Classes: 10:30 AM
Class Title: 3D Finishing 101: How to finish a biscornu, a matress-style pincushion or a pinkeep

Afternoon Classes: 1:30 PM
Class Title: 3D Finishing 102: How to finish a needlebook, needle case/etui, or a scissors case

I thought it would be nice to let the students choose which finishing they wanna learn so I gave various options on each class... that's the reason why at least 20-30 minutes will be alloted on intro and discussion.

Moreso, students who will enroll on morning and aftrnoon classes will recieve a special gift. So if you're from Iowa and is interested on hand-finishing, do attend a class or 2.:)

Happy stitching all!

Small Finishes

2009-04-16T20:04:00.000-05:00

This post has been long over due so I'll just let the pictures speak for themselves. I already lost track as to when did I finish them but I'm pretty sure I haven't shared a photo of the complete sets.

Sewing Set 1: Purse, Needlecase

and Scissors Case with Detachable Beaded FobSewing Set 1: Purse with Mother of Pearl Heart Thread Holders,

Needle Case with long pocket, thread holder, felt pages & magnetic strip

Sewing Case 2: Purse, Pagoda Pincushion & Scissors Fob Woven Ribbons Sewing Set: 15-sided Pincushion,

Biscornu & Triangular Fob

I have more finished pieces to share but not done taking photos yet. Just keep on coming back to check them out.

backdated post: 04-17-09

An Easter Tradition

2009-04-08T19:13:00.004-05:00

I remember blogging last year how we celebrate Easter back home, and that we actually call it Holy Week. Moreso, in my hometown, we still celebrate it the old ways. Holy Week is a big part of the Filipino tradition as majority of our population is Roman Catholic. Part of the tradition in our neighborhood is baking & eating "bibingka" or rice cake, so I decided to bake some since I purchased another batch of pinoy foods recently. Traditionally, bibingka back home is baked in ~8"x2" round clay molds (with banana leaves as lining) using coal (on top & bottom). To cut the story short, mine is of course baked in the oven, using rice flour mix and added cream cheese in the batter. Yummy!

Bibingka with Cream Cheese

I've been missing "puto" as well and I can't resist not to steam some. Yes, our puto back home is also made from rice and it's kinda like the counter part of muffins here in the US, only we steam them in small molds similar to muffin size. Any mold size and shape will actually works as long as it will fit in the steamer. Since I don't need a fancy product, I decided to use my "leche flan" or custard molds instead.

Puto topped with mild cheddar cheese

And finally, this week's visit at the pinoy store is the first time I saw "dugo ng baboy" or pork blood which is the main ingredient in dinuguan (dugo means blood). It is one of my fave food ever and is usually eaten with either puto or rice. I think I cooked about 7~8 pounds of pork dinuguan. I had to freeze some in small zip locks for later.

Dinuguan and puto

I hope everybody's having a wonderful family time. Happy Easter to all!

backdated post: 04-17-09

More products at www.lodyscreations.com

2009-04-04T22:20:00.009-05:00

I finally decided to add more items at Lody's Creations. Here's the Spring 2009 Newsletter for further news.

Still busy repacking stuffs here, and will keep on updating the pages in weeks ahead. So sorry for the slow process as I'm a beginner in web developing. On the positive note, I already know how to incorporate "Add to Cart" or "Buy-It-Now" buttons but will work on those once mopst, if not all, of the items are added. Photos below are some of the stuffs already packed, from fat quarters, embellishments, charms, Mother-of-Pearl thread holders (rings), and finishing supplies. Thanks to those of you who already placed orders on Skirtex, fats and MOP's.:) Your business is highly appreciated.

Products at Lody's Creations

I'm currently working on a Ring & Ribbon Chatelaine Sewing Set. These kind of sewing sets started to get published and eventually got famous on late 1800's ~ early 1900's. I hope you'll consider to add them on your needlework collection as they're super fast and fun to do!

Played some more on my delica beads last week and managed to finish this jewellery set. The entire pendant is made of burgundy and crystal delicas, weaved using peyote stitch. The 6 petals were weaved individually, I then added a pewter rose with "Swarovski Crystal" at the center. The necklace chain and loop earrings were mainly made of mix emerald E-beads, pewter spacers and findings. I love the heart clasp on this necklace so I decided to place it in front.

Spring Fling Jewellery Set

Beadworks By Lody

So sorry for still being invisible in the groups...:( Life's still busy here! I hope everybody's having a great stitching weekend!

2009-03-22T05:20:00.001-05:00

What Keeps Me Busy Now-a-days

2009-03-22T03:59:00.004-05:00

So sorry for being invisible for a long time now. My hands are terribly busy here, and I could only wish I have 4 hands. I couldn't even lurk at the yahoo groups I'm into due to delayed workload, or should I say "stitching and finishing load". The works that I should have finished last month didn't materialize as I got sick in the early weeks. Then before the month ends, DH had flu and couch too. Just as I started to regain my stitching mood, I had a "stye" (or zit as DH told me) on the black part of my left eye. Though it's just an itty-bitty dot, it was so itchy yet can't do anything about it... plus I avoided reading and stitching again. Thank goodness the eyedroper cured it without going to a doctor.

Starting last month, I bought more fabrics, mostly "end of the bolts" and cut as much as I can into fat quarters. I think I already have almost 200 fats cut, about 98% of the fabrics I cut are 100% cotton. I don't know when will I be able to update Lody's Creations website but I'll increase my inventory soon. But for sure, I'll gonna list lining fabrics in fats ($1 each), Mother of Pearl thread holders (I got various colors, shapes and colors), charms, stitching helpers, finishing helpers, and other embellishing supplies. I already packed hundreds and hundreds of these stuffs, and still waiting on more packages from wholesale suppliers. I decided not to have elegant packing so the retail cost would be lower. I just buy in bulk then do all the packing myself.

On the stitching note, I managed to finish a couple of sewing sets but since I can't share a photo of them yet (magazine/publisher's policy), let me share with you my recent beadwork projects. The gold set consists of a necklace with encrusted pendant, bracelet, earrings and a thumb ring. Each piece has an off-loom weaving works. The set is made of seed beads, metal spacers, cultured freshwater potato pearls, glass pearls, and charm (on pendant). I'm trying my best to perfect my weaving techniques (both loom and off-loom) so I can submit some entries at the Fair.:) I will definitely submit the "Pearly Shell" and will make a matching earrings for it. I'm currently working on the "Circles of Life" whcih also be submitted at the Fair. Its component includes "beads on beads", a technique that I learned last month which is quite addicting too.

Simply Gold Jewelry Set

Beadworks by Lody

Below is just a very simple design which consist of a necklace and earrings only. Off-loom weaving is also involved on this project. The focal point of the necklace is the clasp which is a leaf and cluster of grapes in antique silver-tone. Amethyst seed beads, irish bronze freshwater pearls, antique silver metal tube spacers, and AB crystals are the main ingredients of the set. I finished it off with a "Made with love" charm, attached on the clasp. I thought of adding an encrusted pendant on it but I don't wanna lose its simplicity so I ended up leaving it as is. I will definitely increase my inventory of completed jewelry sets and hope to publish off-loom weaving designs. I don't have a beading design software yet but one of my cross-stitch software works very well on a couple of beading stitches , i.e. peyote and brick.

Plain But Pretty

Beadworks by Lody

Since my last posting (Feb. 22), I managed to do two trips at the library and got myself more batches of wodnerful books. Those books kept me busy in days, that I didn't able to spend much time with my magazine subs. I'm a little bit disappointed with SANQ's recent issue but quite happy with the JCS. I also renewed my Fons and Porter's Love of Quilting subscription when I renewed MIL's last month. The first issue comes with a couple of free leaflets, consists of small projects. Though I don't quilt, I do enjoy browsing each page and looking at the projects.

And lastly, Sandy's article about me finally made it to "March 2009 Inside EGA". The article is published under Chapter News. Congrats and thanks so much for th article Sandy (Publicity Chair of CVCEGA). "Inside EGA" can be found at EGA website and is exclusive to members only.

Various Needlework Magazines

I stopped my Piecework Magazine subscription and now am wondering what are the articles I missed. If you're a subscriber of this mag, I would love to know if there are articles about counted thread and surface embroidery in recent issues. Please leave a comment or send me an email. Thanks!

I finally able to set-up my other sewing machine downstairs yesterday and now ready to use. Hopefully, I can sew some small projects that had been long over-due.

There'll be a craftshow in town on first weekend of April and I'm patiently waiting for it.:) Moreso, I just found out that our County Fair is held on month of July, a couple weeks before the State Fair. And speaking of State Fair, DH suprised me one morning... "Guess what who'll gonna be at the State Fair, Honey?" I was actually thinking it could be Charice.. LOL Never did I imagine that it's JOURNEY. I had to tell DH right away that we have to go to that concert, though it's still months away. He already promised he'll take a night off just so we can be at the concert.:) Yay! I'm so excited, I desperately wanted to see JOURNEY! I even told DH before that if they'll gonna have a concert tour in the Philippines (current Journey lead vocals is Arnel Pineda, a Filipino from Sampaloc, Manila), I will schedule my vacation on the days they are there so I can watch their concert. LOL

To fellow Iowans who loves JOURNEY, please take note that they will be here in IA on August 23, 2009 (Sunday night) at the Fairgrounds. Ticket cost is $45, and wil be available on April 11 onwards, or until seats are avaibale. Their special guest will be HEART... It will be a fantastic concert, that's for sure! Kelly Clarkson will be at the Fair on August 22, 2009 (Saturday), ticket cost is $38. Check out the IA State Fair website for further details.

Now that SPRING has come, I can't wait for warmer days so I can spend some time in the garden. But before that, we need another trip in Ames, at our favorite garden house, Holubs, where we get most of our veggies plants. Not to mention I need to buy some Asian seeds (Chinese okra, string beans and bok choy) at the Oriental store there.

Oh well, I better sign off now! I just wanna let you know guys what keeps me busy. Have a great stitching Sunday!

Food Food Food

2009-03-16T15:29:00.000-05:00

Can you tell I'm busy cooking? DH might say no though... he'll definitely say I'm busy crafting! LOL We had another family gathering on March 15 at SIL's house. There was a lot of food as each of us brought something. I baked cherry-topped cheesecake, turtle brownies, and maple syrup glazed baby carrots. I can't remember who brought what but everything was surely delicious. Aside from above mentioned, we also had turkey, ham, deviled eggs, broccoli casserole, sweet corn casserole, three beans salad, rolls, chili beans, mashed potato, and gravy, apple crisp, orange-pineapple dessert, home-made ice cream (by MIL), etc... so much food I can hardly recall what else we had. LOL Everybody went home with bags of left-over food.

Since February (up to present), I eat sauteed baby spinach and salmon at least once a week. It's sooooooo yummy, specially with fried rice! We've been stocking up bags and bags of spinach just so I can have some whenever I want to. DH doesn't like spinach & salmon much but he's doing good on his diet. We try to have a guilt-free eating on his day-offs, and I usually prepare heeavy meals on those days... i.e. green bean casserole, cheesy potato casserole, pork chops, etc.

Food Food Food

I finally had the chance to steam my Siopao a couple weeks back. I'm sure I'll get more soon...

Siopao

Happy eating all!

backdated post: 2009-0322

Surprises from France

2009-03-13T15:10:00.011-05:00

Not one, not two but three! Anne Marie, a dear friend from France sent me 3 fabulous surprises - DFEA magazine, Point De Croix magazine and a pretty little purse with spring theme. I was blown away with Anne Marie's generosity. Than you so much!

DFEA & Point De Croix Magazines

from Anne Marie of France

Before opening the packages, I was kinda guessing what's inside. I knew that the big envelope contains magazines, but never did I imagine that Anne Marie will go extra mile again and make another exquisite piece for me. The finishing is one-of-a-kind as always! If only my camera could showcase the fine details of her finishing, I'm sure you'll be ooohhhing and ahhhing as well.

An Exquisite Spring Purse from Anne Marie

I couldn't thank you enough with all these goodies you sent me my dear friend. I'm still speechless whenever I look at the purse, but it sure does give a smile on my face. It will be treasured for life, that's for sure. Both magazines has wonderful designs, and though I can't understand any French word written in them, the finishing ideas are very clear to me! I did and will always enjoy browsing them.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you very very much Anne Marie!

backdated post: 2009-0322

Happy Birthday Mom

2009-03-08T14:40:00.003-05:00

Me and DH had to finalize our shopping for MIL's gifts on Thursday. We decided to go at Hobby Lobby in Ames first thing in the morning. But first, we dropped by at Walmart-Ames to check out MASH Season 1 & 2 DVD set. We're supposed to include both sets at MIL's gifts but Walmart in town & in Ames both run out of them. So we agreed to just get MIL a HB gift card and some knick-knacks. I also made some bracelets for her aside from the DVD's, CD's, Fons & Porters Triangle, rotary cutter blades, Fons and Porters Quilting Magazine Subscription, Sensor, Ped-egg, books, coat, etc. Aunt R hosted Mom's party and I was in-charge on the dessert. MIL requested a strawberry shortcake. MIL and Aunt R prepared the main course. It was another very simple gathering but everybody had a great time!

Anyway, I didn't get any cross stitch item at Hobby Lobby this time. I just focused on the jewelry supplies isle and got me a bunch of beads (seed 11/0 and E 6/0). The photo below is just some of them! As always, while I was busy at HB, DH was at the moviestore (I think bought 2 or 3 DVD's). Around 10:30AM, we're already on our way to my favorite Asian Resto in Ames but they're still close when we got there so we spend some time first at K-Mart (it's just next to the resto) first and I ended up buying a pair of slippers. By the time we headed home, it's almost noon already...

Various Beads and Beading Thread (Nymo) from Hobby Lobby

It's been a while since the last time I visited JoAnn's despite the fact that it's just few stalls away from HB. Often than not, by the time I'm done browsing at HB, I'm broke already coz I always ended up buying "this and that". I'm sure you know what I mean.:)

Hope everybody's having a great stitching day!

backdated post: 2009-0322