Embroidery

Recently I completed embroidering this beautiful pattern from Clementine Patterns. It had been a while since I had worked on an embroidery project for myself. This was so enjoyable! I anticipated the arrival of each Sunday afternoon, as this was my designated embroidering time.

The "raspberries" were created by stitching french knots in different thread strands, two strands towards the center and one strand around the outer edges. This really gave them a wonderful dimension.

The instructions were easy to follow, and the presentation lovely! I would highly recommend Clementine Patterns to anyone who enjoys embroidery.

This pattern is part of a series representing the four seasons. I originally ordered "summer" which is "His Merceis are New". I was delighted when the shop owners offered me second complimentary pattern since the wait was longer than originally estimated.

Here is a photo of the second pattern I began recently, "Praise God" (spring). I look forward to seeing both framed. They will be a lovely addition to my home, especially since they will be a beautiful reminder of God's great mercies and blessings!

A New Name

Last week I changed the name of my Etsy shop to "Lilacs in Spring". I felt it would be a good idea to continue the theme with my blog, so I have decided to change my blog name to "Lilacs and Springtime". I am not sure if this will have any ramifications on those who follow my blog, but I thought I would give you all a heads up that if it appears I have disappeared it is just that my blog name has changed.

January Days

It is hard to believe so much time has passed since my last post! Christmas and the New Year just flew by.

The Christmas season was blessed and busy. My mother and I spent many late evenings sewing pioneer and colonial dresses for little girls, as well as, nightgowns and aprons for ladies. The LORD abundantly blessed our sewing efforts through our website The Scarlet Thread. It is always so pleasant to imagine all the little girls opening up special packages Christmas morning that we had a part in sewing.

 With the beginning of a new year my mind is filled with new sewing inspirations. As I busily work on orders for our family business I have also been taking out some time to sew new items for my Etsy shop. Another fun project I hope to begin very soon is my wedding gown. : ) I have been gathering ideas from many websites, and I think I have a fairly good idea of the style.

January is a great month. There is a sort of calm after the storm of holiday rushing. It is a great time to relax, catch up and collect your thoughts. Lately I have enjoyed the peaceful routine of sewing with a cup of tea not too far away….

Today I admire the beautiful roses on my dresser- such a sweet reminder of my dear Adam’s love.

Yesterday afternoon I baked a double batch of oatmeal cookies, enough to share with family. Here is my favorite recipe! I used dates in place of the raisins.

"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;
    I will counsel you with my loving eye on you." Psalm 32:8