tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65585932024-03-07T05:02:28.904-05:00Diary of a Mad StitcherHere you will find the Ramblings of an overly enthusiastic, overly stressed, and overly verbose Mad Stitcher. I will be sharing my thoughts on life, stitching, books, travels and generally anything that pops into my mind. You will also be able to read my little stories. I love to write short stories of all types and will enjoy sharing them with you here.
Come join me for a laugh or two and maybe a tear or two as well.The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.comBlogger203125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-50106071891565055102015-07-17T18:35:00.001-04:002015-07-17T18:35:33.111-04:00Black-Eyed Susans--book reviewI promised to share with you some of the books I've been reading while I recouperated. So I will start with the most recent one.<br />
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<b><u>Black-Eyed Susans by Julia Heaberlin</u></b><br />
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Synopsis:<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>I am the star of screaming headlines and campfire ghost stories.</i></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>I am one of the four Black-Eyed Susans.</i></span><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>The Lucky one.</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">As a sixteen-year-old, Tessa Cartwright was found in a Texas field, barely alive amid a scattering of bones, with only fragments of memory as to how she got there. Ever since, the press has pursued her as the lone surviving "Blacky-Eyed Susan," the nickname given to the murder victims because of the yellow carpet of wildflowers that flourished above their shared grave. Tessa's testimony about those tragic hours put a man on death row.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Now almost two decades later. Tessa is an artist and single mother. In the desolate cold of February, she is shocked to discover a freshly planted patch of black-eyed susans--a summertime bloom--just outside her bedroom window. Terrified at the implications--that she sent the wrong man to prison and the real killer remains at large--Tessa turns to the lawyers working to exonerate the man awaiting execution. But the flowers alone are not proof enough, and the forensic investigation of the still-unidentified bones is progressing too slowly. An innocent life hangs in the balance. The legal team appeals to Tessa to undergo hypnosis to retrieve lost memories--and to share the drawings she produced as part of an experimental therapy shortly afterher rescue.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #073763; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">What they don't know is that Tessa and the scared, fragile girl she was have built a fortress of secrets. As the clock ticks toward the execution, Tessa fears for her sanity, but even more for the safety of her teenaged daughter. Is a serial killer still roaming free, taunting Tessa with a trail of clues? She has no choice but to confront old ghosts and the lingering nightmares to finally discover what really happened that night.</span><br />
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My thoughts:<br />
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This book is fantastic! I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a great psychological thriller. When I started reading this one I couldn't put it down. I even took it to the bathroom with me! Oops, TMI, sorry.<br />
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This book is very thought provoking. I find it difficult to put into words. The author never tells us what happened to Tessa. We know she was found in a wheat field left for dead. There was anther body and bones from even more victims. But what happened to Tessa? Was she raped, tortured, what? How long was she held before being found? We glean much information from reading but I personally would have liked to know the background. Much was left for your imagination. Maybe this is why it is so good! <br />
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The ending is tied up neatly and we are not left hanging, so please give it a chance. I don't think you will be disappointed!The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-26527200361948088622015-07-13T16:01:00.003-04:002015-07-13T16:04:19.591-04:00WOW!!! It has been a whileIt's hard to believe it has been so long since I posted, but it has been. I went on my annual stitching retreat in November and I got really sick and had to come home. Went to doctor and was hospitalized for nine days ( including surgery). Then there were the holidays to get through. I did have a rush to finish up some new designs (see <a href="http://www.ladykneedleart.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lady K Needlearts</a>). But mostly I have been reading and sleeping. My body seems to be taking much longer to recover than usual. <br />
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I will be adding reviews of some of the books I've been reading over the next few weeks. Today I thought I would share a bit about what I've been stitching. Many years ago I saw a chart for a Blackwork Greenman (by Vickey Macky of FanXstitch) and fell in love with it. I bought the chart and threads for it and then decided I wasn't up to the task of stitching it. A few weeks ago I thought of it and pulled it out. As I said, I haven't been doing a lot of stitching lately (haven't stitched in about four months or so) but this one started bugging me. I finally said *what the heck* and gathered my things together. I began stitching on it a few days ago and haven't been able to put it down. This is a scan of what I have accomplished so far. Not a great pic but maybe it will give you an idea of my progress.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjWJoMp4EUgCnJoAHlJQEIeT5_K5F7oNap32_NqMlDP-BqC2G9T21P1qhOQCwJh1oRC5Z5QeVlaYSHHJdf9u4kBXuPhQbg0AkMkhfe675FVZlCGA9762Sc2eovuvBLNmoIN6nZjQ/s1600/Greenman+wip.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjWJoMp4EUgCnJoAHlJQEIeT5_K5F7oNap32_NqMlDP-BqC2G9T21P1qhOQCwJh1oRC5Z5QeVlaYSHHJdf9u4kBXuPhQbg0AkMkhfe675FVZlCGA9762Sc2eovuvBLNmoIN6nZjQ/s320/Greenman+wip.JPG" width="247" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wip as of 7/10/2015</td></tr>
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And this is what it will look like when finished:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG86LV7rTIy47X5eRSZ29DH38sDQ_V_PS-Mxi3pARjsLicSGpvAR24X49eLdMKJY6DRi3LVeBddZFFs-kQLjbQxWXHqdaEPUJ3vgpvIJ38uyzf9eDokTJFOUztvGi4UjdQREnL1Q/s1600/Blackwork-Green-Man-e1339846518894-469x800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG86LV7rTIy47X5eRSZ29DH38sDQ_V_PS-Mxi3pARjsLicSGpvAR24X49eLdMKJY6DRi3LVeBddZFFs-kQLjbQxWXHqdaEPUJ3vgpvIJ38uyzf9eDokTJFOUztvGi4UjdQREnL1Q/s320/Blackwork-Green-Man-e1339846518894-469x800.jpg" width="187" /></a></div>
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Until next time.....<br />
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<br />The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-31382485891117013582014-06-19T16:13:00.000-04:002014-06-19T16:13:12.486-04:00Boy it is hot in SCThings have been hectic around my house over the last couple of months--even more so than usual. My heat pump went out, then my plumbing, then .....well you get the picture. Let's just say I am on my second round of threes. I am making do with a window ac unit until I can get the heat pump replaced, but I am finally getting back to my stitching. I released a new design in May and have another ready to release in July. Be sure to check them out over on my <a href="http://ladykneedleart.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lady K Needlearts</a> site. I am now working on two new designs to be released later this year.<br />
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I have also finished up a model for Carriage House Samplings and a consignment piece. So I am back in stitching mode.<br />
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My <a href="http://www.ebay.com/sch/madstitcherdesigns/m.html?item=221468831111&hash=item3390922d87&pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2562" target="_blank">ebay </a>site is still going. So if you want to check out what I have listed, please do so. My ebay name is madstitcherdesigns.<br />
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Victorian Motto is having a wonderful give-a-way of her new floss colors. Be cure and check it out :<a href="http://victorianmottosamplershoppe.blogspot.com/2014/06/summer-floss-give-away-enter-now.html?showComment=1403206803861#c3513171681701430036" target="_blank">Victorian Motto</a><br />
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That's it for now. Gotta get back in front of the AC so I can stitch. Until next time.... <br />
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<br />The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-57434802939751907382014-03-15T22:12:00.000-04:002014-03-15T22:12:06.792-04:00A Look Back in Time<span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;">A Few years ago I became enamored with Crazy Quilting. I simply love it. Pam Kellogg of Kitty and Me Designs was the first I had really noticed and I began following her blog religiously. I wanted to do this also. So I made plans and started collecting fabrics and laces and trims and ribbons and fibers, and beads and charms and...and... well you get the idea. However I could never make myself start one. I was terrified of piecing the fabrics--not the embellishing! Can you believe that? If I didn't have a pattern to follow I wasn't sure how to begin. And I kept procrastinating. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;">I am afraid of Crazy Quilting! Yes...I have finally admitted it.
I know the basics. I can sew. I know the specialty stitches used for
seam treatments and I love to embellish. I have been an avid cross
stitcher for more years than I care to admit and have become addicted to
specialty stitches. But for some reason the thought of putting all
these things together and actually doing it as a Crazy project is just
overwhelming to me. So what did I do? you ask. Well what any normal
cross stitcher would do. I improvised!</span><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;">I
designed a cross stitch/specialty stitch design that looks like Crazy
Quilting! I decided if I can do it on cross stitched fabric then I can
do it on regular fabric. So here it is: (It matches my Ipod)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpg26XhtB4-n8w8KMs0mcFmgGWj-GdaKdgFVYvZpmpYTWjQYBN4rZEZRdsgv662EKiLxxBRQSgaDYpB81z_K_McLS_lyu13URB8oeUpS3Qoq4cMRm1nfHfWyu8WH3FPeO4AVrgFA/s1600/Pocket+Front.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpg26XhtB4-n8w8KMs0mcFmgGWj-GdaKdgFVYvZpmpYTWjQYBN4rZEZRdsgv662EKiLxxBRQSgaDYpB81z_K_McLS_lyu13URB8oeUpS3Qoq4cMRm1nfHfWyu8WH3FPeO4AVrgFA/s1600/Pocket+Front.JPG" height="391" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;">And here it is in RED! Stitched for a friend--I just love this one.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUADJtuJ6HGoM-R2QihwgXme-ASOfC2dBkO7sT0bKoCJf4WDIpnvDY4trclcDJsXIuLJWs6VG_CioCh4jLX0lzxY_meTX_RTJcOZlogPt64ie1Qx0Eqi8nlktagWCrz7O_wVNAFA/s1600/Flutterby+in+Red.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUADJtuJ6HGoM-R2QihwgXme-ASOfC2dBkO7sT0bKoCJf4WDIpnvDY4trclcDJsXIuLJWs6VG_CioCh4jLX0lzxY_meTX_RTJcOZlogPt64ie1Qx0Eqi8nlktagWCrz7O_wVNAFA/s1600/Flutterby+in+Red.JPG" height="385" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"> <br />
</span><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />It
is the Flutterby Garden Pocket and it is a bit unusual but I love it.
It is an IPod/Cell phone pocket with two different looks. I first
stitched the basic design (I used this for the back side) and then began to add embellishments to
give it a bit of Zing! (For the front). It was easy to use what I had on hand--fibers,
ribbons, lace, buttons, charms, beads, pearls. As you can see I
added a tatted butterfly to mine! Just use your imagination!<br /><span style="color: blue;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">[After
I finished it, I decided to make it available for others--both cross
stitchers and crazy quilters! I have included some seam treatment
suggestions and finishing instructions for this as well as the cording
and tassel making instructions. This pocket is very versatile. It
can be used not only for your IPod or cellphone but also for your
credit cards/cash, your keys, Driver's License or anything else you
like! Just send me an email for more info.]</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: small;">Now it is years later and I still love Crazy quilting and I still have the plans and urge to do some of it. So stay tuned to see what I do this time.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: small;">Until next time... </span></span></span>The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-43513196873987614762014-03-13T00:04:00.001-04:002014-03-13T00:04:52.170-04:00Excited!<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Today is release day for my newest design--French Elegance II. </span></b><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This one was so much fun to design and to stitch. Please check it out over on<a href="http://ladykneedleart.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"> Lady K Needlearts</a>. </span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I am now working on another one. Can't seem to slow down once an idea takes form. I will share when I can. </span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In other news... I have been adding lots of charts, fabrics and other things over on eBay so please check it out. My name there is madstitcherdesigns. I have really been clearing out stash and have barely touched the surface. After all I have been collecting for 45+ years!! At the moment it is mostly charts and quilting fabrics but I will also be adding cross stitch fabrics, fibers, etc. as soon as I finish going through the charts. I may also add some books as my library has been growing exponentially also. </span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I know I promised photos of my quilt project but I haven't had a chance to get the camera out yet. But I will...hopefully this weekend. There is just so much I want to do and not enough time in the day to do it all. .</span></b>The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-86925490438859394882014-03-13T00:01:00.001-04:002014-03-13T00:01:06.296-04:00Denises's Piece<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Back in October I told you I finished a consigned piece for Denise but forgot to take a photo of it finished before mailing it off. Well she was kind enough to send me a photo of it all framed up and I love it. It is a Norman Rockwell painting charted out and is solidly stitched.</span></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLs5MIES-e5WX5bBZvkxEI1zKRq4Mv8Gdbuk0ZuOWMxJDhO1ie0nvnb2Pl_EJtLkYbTo9mgcyLAuhinT_8Ba097ZrwBRtvIC_rGTMEfsLSInFnMIAYzFVaUK5-YRpLrDYzhoTY2Q/s1600/Piece+for+Denise+W.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLs5MIES-e5WX5bBZvkxEI1zKRq4Mv8Gdbuk0ZuOWMxJDhO1ie0nvnb2Pl_EJtLkYbTo9mgcyLAuhinT_8Ba097ZrwBRtvIC_rGTMEfsLSInFnMIAYzFVaUK5-YRpLrDYzhoTY2Q/s1600/Piece+for+Denise+W.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I love the mats and frame she chose. </span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Until next time... </span></b>The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-33017375004187055442014-02-27T13:00:00.000-05:002014-03-03T21:33:09.292-05:00Feeling Guilty<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I am really feeling guilty now. I have begun to reorganize and reduce my stash. That means eBay. I have put quite a few charts, fabrics and scissors on eBay and have much more to go through. (Please go check it out--madstitcherdesigns is my eBay name). But through there I met a wonderful stitcher who has a great blog and it has made me feel so guilty for neglecting mine. His name is Kevin and if you want to check it out his blog is <a href="http://www.cabbagenkings.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Cabbages and Kings</a>. I know I should be better at posting but sometimes I wonder if anyone out there is actually reading it anyway. But at least it is a record of what is going on with me. </span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I am getting ready for the weekend as my Stitching Sisters is having our second Quilting class. I am going to try to get the photos taken and share with all of you what I am planning. Kiki will be here later this evening for the weekend and the rest are coming tomorrow and Saturday. We always have a fun time and hopefully it will be productive as well.</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Until next time...</span></b>The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-6245837615509770942014-02-25T11:00:00.000-05:002014-03-03T21:20:39.694-05:00Sorry I've been away so long...<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This weather is really affecting me. We have had 2 winter storms, an earth quake, and an aftershock within 2 weeks! ( No damage to us as we were a bit farther away from the epicenter but we sure felt it!) This is so unusual for us here and it is really taking it's tole on me. We are still running with emergency heating as my heat pump is going to have to be replaced and I have to figure out how I'm going to pay for it. This is $7000 that I don't have!</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I have been spending most of my time stitching and reading. I have just finished the model for my newest design which is going to be released on March 15th. You can read more about it on <a href="http://ladykneedleart.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lady K Needlearts</a>. I really enjoyed this one and hope you will like it also. I also completed a new model for Marty at Carriage House Samplings which is going to be released shortly so keep your eyes out for that one as well.</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My Stitching Sisters met at my house for our holiday get together and one of the ladies mentioned an interest in learning to quilt. Kiki is our resident expert quilter and teacher and she agreed to have a quilting class here for our group. So I am now taking a quilting class. We had the first class the weekend of Feb 6th and I will tell you all about it next time as that will take up an entire post and I need to take some photos to share with you. Needless to say we had a lot of fun!</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Presently I am back in designing mode and have three new projects ongoing. So I have been really busy. I am hoping to do better with my posting but you know me.</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Until Next time...</span></b>The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-67790460681937683662014-02-04T21:03:00.000-05:002014-03-03T21:03:46.350-05:00What's with this?<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">What is with this weather? We are having a snow and ice storm that you wouldn't believe. I know it is affecting people all over, but folks <b>THIS IS SOUTH CAROLINA!</b></span> <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We are not accustomed to this. I am so cold. My heat pump went out yesterday (the day <u>before</u> the storm hits, of course!) and we are using emergency heating. I just hope the power doesn't go out. I hope you are all safe and warm inside.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Until next time...</span>The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-35636105223632372792014-01-22T20:58:00.000-05:002014-03-03T20:58:38.203-05:00Forget to Remember--Book Review<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I have been busy reading during this cold weather and I found this book to be very enjoyable. It was written by Alan Cook and is the first of three in the Carol Golden series.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Forget to Remember by Alan Cook</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This book is very well written and has a very interesting plot. Carol was found beaten almost to death and now has no memory of who she is or what happened to her. She gives herself the name of Carol just because she likes it and begins on her trek to discover who she is. From California to North Carolina to London to Scotland and back again she follows clue after clue and finds two possibilities for her identity. More attempts on her life leads her to consider hiding and giving up her search but she continues on with the help of a friend. Each twist and turn pulls you deeper into the life of Carol Golden. Who is she and why is someone determined to kill her?<br /><br />As the plot thickens, the level of interest and intrigue makes this story difficult to put down. Mr Cook did a marvelous job developing characters you want to get to know. This was very enjoyable to read.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Until next time.... </span>The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-1124453159263158492013-12-13T06:11:00.003-05:002013-12-13T06:11:28.342-05:00Great give-awayNancy of at Victorian Motto is having a great 12 days of Christmas Give-away! Check it out here. <a href="http://victorianmottosamplershoppe.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Victorian Motto Sampler Shoppe</a>The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-71194245272717222902013-11-02T19:20:00.000-04:002013-11-02T19:20:22.019-04:00Happy Birthday to Me!<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Today I am celebrating the anniversary of my 29th birthday. Won't you join me? It has been uneventful which is what I expected. My hospice nurse made a special trip to my home to bring me a cupcake! I have receive several cards and emails and my son has forgotten it. I am not going to remind him as it will just make him feel badly. He is working so hard these days I don't know how he remembers what day it is. I am giving myself my trip to Myrtle Beach as I usually do, so I will be sharing it with my friends next week. Only 6 more days to go!</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I am going to get back to my stitching for a little while and read a few chapters before bed.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Until next time...</span></b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Edited to Add: Jason did remember! He just came home and brought us dinner as it is a bit too late for us to go out. He has to get up at 4:00am to get to work. </span></b>The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-54851964673439634452013-10-31T09:00:00.000-04:002013-11-02T19:19:57.771-04:00Happy Halloween!<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wow it's that time of year once more. Can you believe it? I hope that each of you has a great day and if you are taking little ones out for Trick or Treat please be careful. </span></b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Until next time... </span></b>The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-36837310197935254032013-10-21T10:00:00.000-04:002013-11-02T19:12:52.256-04:00Duh!<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I finished up the consignment and yes, you guessed it...I forgot to take a photo of it before I mailed it off to it's owner! I cannot believe I did that. My only excuse is that I was trying to get it into today's mail and rushed to get it in the mailbox. Oh well..It was a still life by Norman Rockwell which had been turned into cross stitch. I was solidly stitched with over 16,000 stitches! But it turned out really well.</span></b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I am now working on my next model so it will be a while before I have any stitching to show unless I take a break to work on one of my WIP. Which I may do since I may take one with me to the beach. Is is November yet? Almost!</span></b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My latest read is a series by Jenna Bennett. I bought the complete collection of the Savannah Martin Mysteries and have gotten through the first two of them (there are seven). So far it has been very enjoyable. </span></b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">#1 <u>A Cutthroat Business</u></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Description:</span></b><br />
<br /><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Everyone has warned new-minted realtor Savannah Martin that real estate
is a cutthroat business. But Savannah doesn't think she's supposed to
take the warning literally ... until an early morning phone call sends
her to an empty house on the 'bad' side of town, where she finds herself
standing over the butchered body of a competitor, face to face with the
boy her mother always warned her about. <br /><br />Rafe Collier is six
feet three inches of testosterone and trouble; tall, dark, and
dangerous, with a murky past and no future--not the kind of guy a
perfect Southern Belle should want to tangle with. In any way. But
wherever Savannah turns, there he is, and making no bones about what he
wants from her. <br /><br />Now Savannah must figure out who killed real
estate queen Brenda Puckett, make a success of her new career, and avoid
getting killed--or kissed--by Rafe, all before the money in her savings
account runs out and she has to go back to selling make-up at the mall. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"># 2 <u><b>Hot Property </b></u></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Description:</span></b><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When Savannah Martin's fellow Realtor and friend Lila Vaughn is robbed
during an open house, Savannah rushes to the rescue with tea and
sympathy, or at least a really good lunch and a shoulder to cry on.
However, Lila seems more peeved than distraught, and her main gripe is
that the sexy robber who tied her to a kitchen chair--for her own
good--didn't follow her suggestion to tie her to the bed instead. <br /> <br />Lila's
description of the man fits Savannah's old school-mate Rafael Collier
to a T. Rafe has recently turned up in Savannah's life again, and he
isn't above doing a little breaking and entering. Metro Nashville
Homicide Detective Tamara Grimaldi is of the same opinion, and when Lila
turns up dead, tied to her bed and strangled, Rafe becomes a suspect.
Now Savannah must get busy finding the real murderer before Detective
Grimaldi can arrest the wrong man.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My Thoughts:</span></b><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">So far this has not been disappointing. I have enjoyed getting to know </span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Savannah</span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> and her friends. The first book is quite good but the second book is even better than the first and I think it will just keep getting better as the series progresses. It is well written and the character development is well constructed. The only problem I have is with Savannah's attitude towards Todd but I am not going to spoil it for you. You'll know what I mean when you read it for yourself! :)~ (teasing!) I am looking forward to continuing this series. I am having trouble putting it down each night.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>Until next time...</b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span>The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-49517686915937169942013-10-16T18:21:00.000-04:002013-11-02T18:38:01.441-04:00Only Three Weeks to Go!<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I am still waiting for my model to be framed and I am very antsy! I cannot wait to see how Peggy framed it for me. I am letting her choose the frame for me this time as I had to send the piece through the mail. I trust her completely and know she will do a great job. The consigned piece is almost finished and I do hope the owner likes it. I will get a photo of it when I get it completed. Shouldn't be too much longer.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I just realized it is only three weeks until our annual trip to Myrtle Beach! Kiki, Angel and I will be going for sure. Jeannie and Ester are not getting to attend this year. I wasn't sure I would either but thanks once again to Kiki I will be be there. We will be leaving on November 8th and returning on the 12th. Kiki will be coming here on the 7th and spending the night and then will stay over again on the 12th so she doesn't have to drive so much in one day. I really can't wait. I have been very isolated this year and just want to get away from this house for a few days--see the world, smell the sea air, hear the waves, experience life!</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I will save my next book review for another day.</span></b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Until next time... </span></b><br />
<br />The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-13159120932580515572013-10-09T17:43:00.000-04:002013-11-02T18:17:23.021-04:00What's Next?<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I finished my model! Yeah! so now I have to get it to the framers so I can get the photograph done and the chart printed. I am thinking maybe a November 15th release (fingers crossed) so keep checking out <a href="http://ladykneedleart.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lady K Needlearts </a>for all the latest updates on the design works.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I will be starting a consignment piece shortly then on to my next model.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">As I stated in my last post, when I finished reading <u>Front Page Fatality</u> I couldn't wait to read the next book in the series so I downloaded <u>Buried Leads</u> into my Kindle and began reading right away. The author is LynDee Walker and she is a very talented writer.</span></b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Description: </span></b><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When an Armani-clad corpse turns up in the woods, crime reporter
Nichelle Clarke smells a scoop. A little digging, and Nichelle uncovers a
web of corruption that stretches all the way to Washington, D.C.
Politics. Murder. And a dead lobbyist. It's everything Nichelle's ever
dreamed of.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The cops are playing it close, the feds even closer,
and Nichelle’s afraid her boss will assign the story to the political
desk any day. Richmond’s new ATF SuperCop makes an arrest before she can
say “Louboutin,” but Nichelle’s gut says he’s got the wrong guy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Her
sexy Mafia boss friend warns her off the case, her TV rival is hot on
her designer heels, an ambitious copy editor wants her beat, and victims
are piling up faster than she can track them down. As Nichelle zeroes
in on the truth, it’ll take some fancy footwork to nab this headline
before the killer nabs her.</span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My Thoughts:</span></b><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Well, I certainly was not disappointed. This book was </span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">very smartly written and had a clever plot with a surprise ending. I love Nicey's character. She is strong willed and stubborn but classy as she winds her way through clues in her fabulous stilettos. The complexity of the her character and the interpersonal relationships with the other characters makes this series a joy to read. I highly recommend it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Until next time...</span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-302977998805740272013-10-04T13:00:00.000-04:002013-11-02T18:37:50.299-04:00It is October!!!<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I cannot believe it is October already! Where has this year gone? The days are getting shorter and cooler and I am catching my breath! I am still working madly to finish my model. I had hoped to have a release date of October 15th but that isn't going to happen so I will just keep plugging along as quickly as I can. My son is working hard and has just seen his new schedule which includes the peak season hours--Christmas will be here before we know it and he is gearing up.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I have been trying to read a bit each day and am still keeping it a bit light as I want to relax and wind down at the end of the day. I will get back to my thrillers once my deadlines have been met. My most recent book is titled <u>Front Page Fatality </u>by LynDee Walker.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Description:</span></b><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Crime reporter Nichelle Clarke’s days can flip from macabre to comical
with a beep of her police scanner. Then an ordinary accident story turns
extraordinary when evidence goes missing, a prosecutor vanishes, and a
sexy Mafia boss shows up with the headline tip of a lifetime. As
Nichelle gets closer to the truth, her story gets more dangerous. Armed
with a notebook, a hunch, and her favorite stilettos, Nichelle races to
splash these shady dealings across the front page before this deadline
becomes her last.</span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My Thoughts:</span></b><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This book is very enjoyable. It is written by a former journalist who knows the ins and outs of the newspaper business so it is very informative and intelligently written. There are some very humorous scenes so be prepared to laugh but it is also a well written murder mystery with lots of twists and turns. I cannot wait to see what Nicey gets into next!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Until next time...</span></b>The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-45806614015380290822013-09-30T14:30:00.000-04:002013-11-02T17:17:54.384-04:00New Book Review<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Things have been a whirlwind around my house. I haven't gotten as much done as I had hoped but I am still working. At the moment I am working on a model of my next design which you will be able to read about over at <a href="http://ladykneedleart.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lady K Needlearts</a> . </span></b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I have been managing to read a bit each night. The latest is <u>Designed to Death</u> by Christina Freeburn. </span></b><br />
<h4 class="grayheader">
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Description:</span></h4>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Faith Hunter planned the
perfect event at her grandmother’s shop, Scrap This, featuring local
scrapbooker and Life Artist Diva, Belinda Watson. But the extravaganza
goes up in a cloud of glitter when Belinda and her cousin, Darlene,
brawl over scraplifted designs. Faith attempts to break it up, but only
makes things worse. Then when Belinda turns up dead behind the Scrap
This store, Faith’s involvement goes viral. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">As accusations
against her turn vicious, Faith sets out to prove her nemesis, Darlene,
committed the crime, only to realize they are both innocent. Now they
must team up or the murderer’s plan will come together seamlessly with
the frenemies sharing a jail cell—or worse, a funeral.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>My thoughts: </b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>I really enjoyed this book. The characters and plot are well developed and interesting. It especially touched home with me because it focused on copywrite infringement which affects all crafts--not just scrapbooking or needlework. I like how Ms. Freeburn handled the subject. This cozy mystery is one that I recommend for anyone who wants to relax and enjoy a nice read but also for those interested scrapbooking. there are lots of ideas here that you might find helpful.</b></span>The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-35365039238348277192013-09-04T08:03:00.000-04:002013-09-04T08:03:00.479-04:00I can now disclose....<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The TNNA Market is now over so I can disclose photos of what I have been working on. First I did Agness Rowlandson for Carriage House Samplings.</span></b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtyOYLAv0OavFGhBAyHtw_ylPObn9QE39r1oRern1jzpTwSUS-Lj0eKQETJhtURhaIyGyyV0-SS0Zt6Y77cqtzwUf60T7zhyzqU39wmXBhI0X_63N5WSfqW265P5ue6mtFCSbG3w/s1600/Model-Agness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtyOYLAv0OavFGhBAyHtw_ylPObn9QE39r1oRern1jzpTwSUS-Lj0eKQETJhtURhaIyGyyV0-SS0Zt6Y77cqtzwUf60T7zhyzqU39wmXBhI0X_63N5WSfqW265P5ue6mtFCSbG3w/s1600/Model-Agness.jpg" /></a></span></b></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Agness Rowlandson</span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Then I did the series of four Boys which co-ordinate with the Girls series done some time ago.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7qIu9NF6KZoieoftRqP4KKl9op9ZmUYpP7tAT7oRZjJ0UH5LsJTfRWdOoBkuHPgPS46RS9oC0Qf6SPE0psSrqNmG4mlBeP5esFs1ulSdWTaZCyzg6SmleM-ZP8Ly8bvJgtY0gzQ/s1600/Abel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7qIu9NF6KZoieoftRqP4KKl9op9ZmUYpP7tAT7oRZjJ0UH5LsJTfRWdOoBkuHPgPS46RS9oC0Qf6SPE0psSrqNmG4mlBeP5esFs1ulSdWTaZCyzg6SmleM-ZP8Ly8bvJgtY0gzQ/s320/Abel.jpg" /></a></span></b></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Abel</span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEVa0XIq8nAsZyKjxLJqDK3I-2w8zbXCvjhyphenhyphentnpxos0rjA_7mRrLsyR415aQz0TLnmgvLtYa4F0qm8FQnBPwoe3zNzc_UC6CpUAaJ0DsKmzRPMPN9IIAYU4Skel2J5SfYKEwmlMg/s1600/George.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEVa0XIq8nAsZyKjxLJqDK3I-2w8zbXCvjhyphenhyphentnpxos0rjA_7mRrLsyR415aQz0TLnmgvLtYa4F0qm8FQnBPwoe3zNzc_UC6CpUAaJ0DsKmzRPMPN9IIAYU4Skel2J5SfYKEwmlMg/s320/George.jpg" /></a></span></b></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">George</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This one reminds me of Jason and my Dad when Dad took my son fishing. Although Jason always had a dog instead of a cat it still fits and brings back wonderful memories.
</span></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC3vOxEjE0A6LIxb8RqdYRMEnpJNeWYxYj6ad6ESylakbMTJknRDmiJj9pktkDWGJGS8yY8u4UC3I3ay9DzIA_Sqix-SpT9NLv133j7CV8Ymc8zO568aXWmNQPtJtiBDPQvwxQZw/s1600/Jackson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC3vOxEjE0A6LIxb8RqdYRMEnpJNeWYxYj6ad6ESylakbMTJknRDmiJj9pktkDWGJGS8yY8u4UC3I3ay9DzIA_Sqix-SpT9NLv133j7CV8Ymc8zO568aXWmNQPtJtiBDPQvwxQZw/s320/Jackson.jpg" /></a></span></b></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Jackson</span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiImryNfGUxvqvO8hJnDXlU-oAmuEN7CapNIXl-gQF0H0N-wsBcClpdhTTS1lSbYCMlrXSDfoZc8mgPiNT6zUWA_H420s6hQoubkD60-GAYMnmn4hobobhqv5eT8npfKAhQz1ABjA/s1600/Jeremiah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiImryNfGUxvqvO8hJnDXlU-oAmuEN7CapNIXl-gQF0H0N-wsBcClpdhTTS1lSbYCMlrXSDfoZc8mgPiNT6zUWA_H420s6hQoubkD60-GAYMnmn4hobobhqv5eT8npfKAhQz1ABjA/s320/Jeremiah.jpg" /></a></span></b></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Jeremiah</span></b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Jeremiah reminds me so much of my son Jason with his dog Dusty. I think I will have to stitch this again for him--making the appropriate color changes to reflect him. </span></b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">See I told you I had been busy! I know you thought I was just loafing! These were fun to stitch and Marty was wonderful to work with. I look forward to stitching more models for her. </span></b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Until next time... </span></b>The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-60910961976652285522013-08-19T20:41:00.000-04:002013-08-19T20:41:57.296-04:00Touching Base<b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I
just received news that the four pieces I stitched for Carriage House
Samplings will be release at the TNNA St. Charles Market on August
24th. They are the Boys Series and I think you will like them--I know I
do.</span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></b>
<b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I
have just finished one of my larger designs and am starting the model
stitching for it. I am hoping to release it in October. Please keep a
watch over at <a href="http://ladykneedleart.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lady K Needlearts</a> for more information of my designs.</span></span></b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I
have been trying to get some things done around the house but you know
how that goes. Since my son is working 10 and 12 hour shifts right now
it is hard to find the time when he can do any of the *honey do* things
that I need for him to do. But we keep trying. I am hoping to get my
carpet removed and laminate floors down in my office, hallway and
family room before it gets time to think about holidays. So keep your
fingers crossed for me.</span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></b>
<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>As for my reading lately: I just finished reading a novel and a couple of novellas </b></span></span><b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">from Patricia Mason. The first book is called <u>In Deep Shitake.</u></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> "Take one devastatingly handsome movie star.<br /> Add one outrageously sexy female private eye with a </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> penchant for food-word obscenities.<br /> Mix in a dose of mistaken identity and a handful of </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> Russian mobsters...And they're all In Deep Shitake."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span style="color: #134f5c;">This is a funny cozy mystery featuring Mo (short for Imogene) a PI who is </span></b></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span style="color: #134f5c;">forever getting into trouble. She shouts out different foods to substitute for the profanities she is trying not to use anymore. Thus the word Shitake (mushroom) here. This was a great relaxing read. I followed it up with <u>Shitake Happens</u> which is a prequel to the book and contains two short novellas. Then finished with <u>A Very Shitake Christmas</u>. While these books are not very intellectually challenging they are a fun and relaxing read which is what I have been needing lately. If you like cozies I think you will enjoy these.</span></b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span style="color: #134f5c;">Until next time... </span></b> </span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-20043204623430436762013-07-22T08:39:00.000-04:002013-07-23T03:43:41.817-04:00Pieces of Tracy by J. Daniel Parra<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>A few weeks ago I was asked to participate in a book tour for J. Daniel Parra and his new book <u>Pieces of Tracy.</u></b><b> I didn't know what I was getting into but I said yes. I thought we were talking about a simple review as I have done before. That, however, I have discovered was not the case and I have let Daniel down in a big way. I can only apologize to him and his publisher as well as to each of you. The book is fabulous and it deserves much more than I can give it here. You really need to read this one! I wish I could go back and do it over. I actually had the chance to interview Daniel but didn't realize it. What did I miss?</b><i></i></span><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9rq3Svs5Y-NTObklOmDajZ2q17DraRAO7QIuwXfaoeNpL5WprY4BNzpOKxKOp7KPXl7kukIfnxUINUWdO7-7RQukQCYT-snqqBKqWTV0AAIFkKfX8b86h6USl4sP67F2xlesn5A/s1600/J+Daniel+Parra+copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9rq3Svs5Y-NTObklOmDajZ2q17DraRAO7QIuwXfaoeNpL5WprY4BNzpOKxKOp7KPXl7kukIfnxUINUWdO7-7RQukQCYT-snqqBKqWTV0AAIFkKfX8b86h6USl4sP67F2xlesn5A/s200/J+Daniel+Parra+copy.JPG" width="165" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxKJUdwoYzXc6_U32X5W5zr2Gb7IunEondKdMGLwPo6uI8m7SYEkeO_4qKGcCY6Roq42-7UoQnkEBoxIea-QuwJ_3QMLBmXkuIDARhbLNsI-NttrcxcPjskK2PltD0W0pIdURHw/s1600/PiecesOfTracy_cover.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxKJUdwoYzXc6_U32X5W5zr2Gb7IunEondKdMGLwPo6uI8m7SYEkeO_4qKGcCY6Roq42-7UoQnkEBoxIea-QuwJ_3QMLBmXkuIDARhbLNsI-NttrcxcPjskK2PltD0W0pIdURHw/s200/PiecesOfTracy_cover.JPG" width="129" /></a></div>
<i></i> <br />
<br />
<br />
<i>ABOUT THE BOOK</i> <i>(from the media kit)</i><br />
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1374038551074_15863">
Meet Teresa Felicia Santana
León. In New York, she’s Tracy León, a would-be artist and telemarketer
who falls for an older tycoon, Bruce Babich. When Bruce’s mother sends
her to Rome to find a stolen painting, Tracy assumes an alter ego, the
zesty Felicia Santana. In Rome, she meets a younger artist named Mario
Giordani who helps her on her quest.</div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_1_1374038551074_15865">
Before long, she is juggling two
romances and two distinct identities: Tracy, demure trophy wife wannabe
in New York’s high society, and wanton, thrill-seeking Felicia in
sultry Rome. Against the backdrop of these exciting cities, she follows
her divided heart, even if it leads her in the wrong direction.</div>
The secrets behind the stolen painting send her on an unforgettable
journey that prompts her to re-examine her own talents and inspirations.
As the pieces come together, Tracy faces a life-changing choice, one
that will lead to surprising discoveries about love and her own
identity.<br />
<a href="http://www.diversionbooks.com/ebooks/pieces-tracy">http://www.diversionbooks.com/ebooks/pieces-tracy</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My Thoughts:</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Dual personalities...boy, do I understand those! Tracy/Felicia has two personalities, two love interest, and two wonderful cities to live in and explore. </span></b><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Although I didn't always understand Tracy's actions, I could relate to her dual personage. I do disagree with some of her choices. The characters are well developed and Daniel does a wonderful job expressing the contrasts between the two identities and how they affect the other. Although we see that Tracy will never really change we also see her begin to take risks and explore the art she loves so much. So maybe this is a change after all. This is a very complex situation with humorous moments and</span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> it shows insights into the world of art and psyche.</span></b><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> The locations are breath-taking and well described. I felt the heartbeat of of the cities and I want to visit them but must do so vicariously. I give this one a thumbs up for a wonderful and pleasurable read.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<i><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">For a more comprehensive review (as it should have been here) and an interview with Daniel please check out <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_275216437"></a></span><a href="http://girlof1000wonders.wordpress.com./">http://girlof1000wonders.wordpress.com.</a> <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I promise the next time I have an opportunity like this one I will recognize it and take advantage of it.</span></b></i>The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-80433721552854158352013-07-11T03:36:00.000-04:002013-07-23T03:38:47.073-04:00Where has the time gone?<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I have been very busy for the last couple of months...Where did the time go? I have been stitching for one thing. I just finished up four models for one of my designers but I cannot show them to you at the moment. They should be released shortly, however.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I have also been working on my own designs for release in September and February. I am hoping to release 4 in September and 2 or 3 at Market in Nashville.</span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> But we will see if I make it.</span></b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I haven't really felt like doing any deep thinking, complex reading so I have been reading my cozy mysteries. I find that whenever I just want some light easy enjoyable reading a good cozy mystery is what fits the bill. So over the last two months I have read all 19 of the Hannah Swenson Bakery Mysteries by Joanne Fluke. </span></b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My review is simple. These are quick and enjoyable and simple to read. I love mysteries and these are easy to solve but with enough twists and turns to make it interesting. My only question is...Will Hannah ever choose which guy she wants!? </span></b><br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 388px;"><tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td class="xl67" height="21" style="border-top: medium none; height: 15.75pt; width: 291pt;" width="388"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I suggest reading them in order to get the background information as it was given. </span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> If you want to do the same then the correct order to read them is as follows:</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></b><br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 388px;"><colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 14189; mso-width-source: userset; width: 291pt;" width="388"></col>
</colgroup><tbody>
<tr height="21" id="Row9 collapse" style="height: 15.75pt;">
<td class="xl67" height="21" style="height: 15.75pt; width: 291pt;" width="388"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></span><br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 12617; mso-width-source: userset; width: 259pt;" width="345"></col>
</colgroup><tbody></tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"><td class="xl64" height="20" style="height: 15pt; width: 259pt;" width="345"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">1:
Chocolate Chip Cookie Murder</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15.0pt;"></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td class="xl64" height="21" style="border-top: medium none; height: 15.75pt; width: 259pt;" width="345"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">2: Strawberry Shortcake Murder</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"></tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"><td class="xl64" height="20" style="border-top: medium none; height: 15pt; width: 259pt;" width="345"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">3: Blueberry Muffin Murder</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"></tr>
<tr height="25" style="height: 18.75pt;"></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="25" style="height: 18.75pt;"><td class="xl64" height="25" style="border-top: medium none; height: 18.75pt; width: 259pt;" width="345"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">4: Lemon Meringue Pie Murder</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="25" style="height: 18.75pt;"></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td class="xl64" height="21" style="border-top: medium none; height: 15.75pt; width: 259pt;" width="345"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">5: Fudge Cupcake Murder</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"></tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"><td class="xl64" height="20" style="border-top: medium none; height: 15pt; width: 259pt;" width="345"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">6: Sugar Cookie Murder</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"></tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"><td class="xl64" height="20" style="border-top: medium none; height: 15pt; width: 259pt;" width="345"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">7: Peach Cobbler Murder</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"></tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"><td class="xl64" height="20" style="border-top: medium none; height: 15pt; width: 259pt;" width="345"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">8: Cherry Cheesecake Murder</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"></tr>
<tr height="25" style="height: 18.75pt;"></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="25" style="height: 18.75pt;"><td class="xl64" height="25" style="border-top: medium none; height: 18.75pt; width: 259pt;" width="345"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">9: Key Lime Pie Murder</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="25" style="height: 18.75pt;"></tr>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"><td class="xl64" height="21" style="border-top: medium none; height: 15.75pt; width: 259pt;" width="345"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">10: Carrot Cake Murder</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="21" style="height: 15.75pt;"></tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"><td class="xl64" height="20" style="border-top: medium none; height: 15pt; width: 259pt;" width="345"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">11: Cream Puff Murder</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"></tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"><td class="xl64" height="20" style="border-top: medium none; height: 15pt; width: 259pt;" width="345"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">12: Candy Cane Murder</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"></tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"><td class="xl64" height="20" style="border-top: medium none; height: 15pt; width: 259pt;" width="345"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">13: Plum Pudding Murder</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"></tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"><td class="xl64" height="20" style="border-top: medium none; height: 15pt; width: 259pt;" width="345"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">14: Apple Turnover Murder</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"></tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"><td class="xl64" height="20" style="border-top: medium none; height: 15pt; width: 259pt;" width="345"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">15: Devil's Food Cake Murder</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"></tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"><td class="xl65" height="20" style="border-top: medium none; height: 15pt; width: 259pt;" width="345"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">16: Cinnamon Roll Murder</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"></tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 345px;"><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"><td class="xl64" height="20" style="border-top: medium none; height: 15pt; width: 259pt;" width="345"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">17: Red Velvet Cupcake Murder</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></b> The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-77567703869841475542013-03-23T00:04:00.002-04:002013-03-23T00:06:27.794-04:00Back again....and book review<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Things are beginning to quiet down a bit after the Nashville Market rush. I have been working on some new designs and have been reading a bit also. Nashville was good this year. Thanks to all of you who have purchased my latest design--<b>Celtic Charm. </b>I hope you enjoy stitching it.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Recently I was sent a pre-release copy of a book for me to review. It is by Sarah Graves and the title is <u><b>A Bat in the Belfry.</b></u> I really enjoyed this one and encourage you to get it as soon as it is released. You can pre-order it from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bat-Belfry-Homicide-Mystery-Mysteries/dp/0345534999/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1364008302&sr=8-1&keywords=sarah+graves">Amazon</a> (No affiliation just a good read)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Review: <u> A Bat in the Belfry: A Home Repair is Homicide Mystery</u> by Sarah Graves</span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Who killed 14 year old Karen Hansen? This is the question facing the
police department of Eastport, Maine. Karen was a teenager raised by a drunken father who was trying to find her way out of Eastport. She wanted to go to NY and become a model but she needed some money. Her plans were all made but something went terribly wrong.</span></span></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sam Tiptree was a recovering alcoholic and drug abuser. Still in his mid-twenties he is struggling with his personal relationships. Maggie, his steadfast true love and Carol, the young daring thing out to get her man. </span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></b>
<b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Chip Hahn had been friends with Sam Tiptree since they were kids in Manhattan. Facing problems with his girlfriend Carolyn, he decides to go to Maine to visit with Sam and get his head together. But what is he hiding?</span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></b>
<b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Lizzie Snow quit her job in Boston and heads to Maine trying to find more information about her still missing niece. Her sister Sissy was killed eight years ago and her 1 year old daughter was never found. But now Lizzie has reason to believe she may be in Eastport. So she turns in her badge and gun and is determined to find her.</span></span></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When her houseguest is accused of
the murder, Jacobia "Jake" Tiptree begins her own investigation along
with her best friend Ellie White and Lizzie Snow, the retired police detective. While a raging storm rains down on Eastport, they work relentlessly to prove Chip's innocence and discover the truth.</span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></b>
<b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">More characters include the frustrated police chief-Bob, the local drug dealer-Harvey, his sidekick, Bogie, Dylan the state police officer, Karen Hansen's father and many more.</span></span></b><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My thoughts:</span></span></b><br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /><b><span style="color: black;">The
plot of this book tends to ramble a bit, but Ms. Graves writes in the
first person which makes this book easier to follow. There are some
ambiguous scenes which I really feel distracted from the overall plot
but they did help develop the characters. The storyline was very
interesting and kept me reading chapter after chapter. This is my first
time reading Ms Graves but I am now going to locate her other books and
read them.</span></b></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">Until next time....</span> </span></span>The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-41056397591364944582013-02-13T19:55:00.000-05:002013-02-13T19:57:28.684-05:00A Little Bit of Madness--book review<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I am feeling much better-finally and wanted to share what I have been up to. I just finished my new release for the Nashville Market and started on my new designs for an early summer release. In the meantime I have been reading. The most recent finish is a Little Bit of Madness from Sheryl Browne.</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #073763;"><i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Celia Summers, intrepid mother of two, is too cuddly for sweatpants, she
suspects. But then, her class at The Harbour Rest Home are similarly
clad. Celia loves her work as an art therapist. She's proud that she
gives her elderly independents something to look forward to, even if her
partner, Martin, disapproves of her efforts. He also has other things
on his mind - telling complicated lies to Celia so he can sell Charlton
Hall, his mum's house, to pay off his debts. Meanwhile, Celia fights to
secure gallery space for her geriatric charges' artwork, and to keep The
Harbour from being closed. She's even ready to abseil from a church
steeple to bring attention to the plight of her old people, no matter
that she might fall and end up splattered all over the flagstones. When
she does fall, however, it's much more painful - in love with PC Alex
Burrows coming to her rescue.</span></span></i></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My thoughts:</span></b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A Little
Bit of Madness centers around the elderly and eccentric residents of The
Harbour Rest Home and Celia Summers the art therapist who befriends
them. While this is definitely a romance novel it is so much more than
that. The love seen in the caring of these elderly residents is what
brought me to the enjoyment of this book. The elderly are so often
treated as forgotten citizens and this book illustrates just how
memorable and productive these citizens are. I especially loved the
dialog between the characters. The interactions between the Colonel,
Eleanor, Rosemary and the loving and doddy May is so humorous and
spellbinding that you can't stop reading. Ms. Browne did a great job
painting these characters.<br /><br />Other reviewers have stated there are
"gaps" and areas that could be improved in the literary sense (and this
is true) but I found this book to be totally enjoyable and worth the
read. I highly recommend it.
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The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6558593.post-86477779427946175942013-01-31T05:59:00.003-05:002013-01-31T05:59:47.717-05:00So sorry...<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I am so sorry I have been away for so long. I got sick right after Christmas and have spent weeks trying to recover my strength. But never fear I will get back to my story--even though the holidays have passed. And I have been reading a lot so will also restart my book reviews. I do hope you enjoy them. For now I will just catch you up on what I've been doing.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My step-daughter and her family came to visit the Sunday before Christmas and it was a lot of fun. The grand kids are growing so rapidly. Kaitlyn is truly a little lady and Jeb has really filled out and matured I can see the young man inside. He was just getting over the flu, and I guess he was still contagious. But it was worth it to get to spend time with my "babies."</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Christmas Day was spent very quietly with only Jason and me. We had a nice dinner and watched "It's a Wonderful Life" which is Jason's favorite Christmas movie. We just cannot have Christmas without watching it. I got to do a little stitching and a little reading -- all in all a very satisfying day.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The following weekend was the Stitching Sisters Christmas Party and Kiki, Angel, Angela and I had a wonderful time visiting, stitching, eating, laughing, eating, stitching, eating talking and then sleeping very little. It is so much fun when the girls come down and we can spend some quality time together. I get really lonely here by myself all the time so it is truly a treat for me. I was also gifted with stash, candy and a gift certificate to Amazon which I am using for my Kindle books.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">After the weekend I came down with this nasty version of the flu and while it ran it's course fairly quickly it left me so lethargic and weak that I really didn't feel like doing anything for much longer than I expected. However, I am feeling better now so hopefully I can get caught up with everything quickly. I have managed to finish one large design for the Nashville show and I am trying to get the model stitched for a second design. If I don't get it finished for Nashville then it will be released in April. For info about my new releases check out my designing blog <a href="http://ladykneedleart.blogspot.com/">Lady K Needlearts</a> . I try to keep updates there.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I am so blessed. I often complain about so much but when I
count my blessings they certainly outnumber the problems. Thank you
Lord. Until next time...</span></b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
.The Mad Stitcherhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18326504441605359477noreply@blogger.com0