New Adventures

I ordered two patterns for Christmas stockings for Claire. I have a stocking all stitched but I don't like it. So I couldn't decide between the felt Sugar Plum Fairy or the Donna Kooler Snowman with animals. I am going to do them both and see which one I like best.
I saw this great youtube video on Jenny's blog today (One Stitch Closer to Nirvana) of an Amy Mitten design based on the Winchester Mystery House. I toured that house last September when we were in California so it is cool having actually seen it in person. I emailed the designer and asked if that pattern was available but I haven't heard back yet. I couldn't find it in any of the online needlework stores. Every once in a while I run across a design on the net that is so cool and that I really want to make.
I finished the back of the Spring Fling needlebook yesterday. I just have the strawberry to stitch and I can start putting a couple of things together. I can prepare the pin cushion but can't finish it until I am at the class. I can finish the needlebook and strawberry if I substitute the needle page with wool of my own.
I also am nearly done with the June retreat stitching - only one piece of fruit (orange?) to go. I want to do the sides of the pin cushions like the Blue Ribbon Sewing Box pin cushion, with hem stitching and ribbon threaded through. But I need to get back to the grind with my Vierlande Winders Keeper. The designer has some nifty tools for finishing that I think I can't live without. I love tools. I have a couple of tools I don't even know how to use!
I am thinking of reading The Thirteenth Tale next. I'll have to see if the first few pages can draw me in.
I went to Pilates today. I am always looking for an excuse not to go. Then I rewarded myself with some soup from Panera for lunch. Yes, I know, food should not be a reward. But it is.
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