In the sewing room

When I wake  at 3 AM, I must find something to do. I tat, or I cross stitch and sometimes I sew...
I bought this table topper pattern at Jo Ann's and with the help of co-worker and good friend Beckie, picked out some nice Fall fabric. I loved this pumpkin print for a few weeks and was determined to use it somehow. I had the right color Ric-rac in my stash and trimmed the center.I made this so that I can flip it over and...
then I have Christmas. On this side, I did fussy cutting to get the cardinals in the same place on each blade and then with Sulky Gold thread did the machine embroidery stitches along each seam. I really like how it turned out. I was able to fussy cut for the center circle too. This will make a nice pattern to do for all the seasons. It fits nicely on my table.  I would also like to make the table runner that everyone has been making....one of the customers explained it to me so I will give it a try. I am getting used to the new sewing machine and hope to be sewing more.
This is the Halloween Exchange that I sent to Melissa....

She identified it as coming from Marcy on her blog. It was fun to make. I stitched and attached the piece to a black tote bag and filled with some goodies. I added beads...of course...to the spider and some glitzy thread here and there. I will be taking a break from group exchanges for now, and do individual exchanges. Not to sound immature, but I do put lots of thought and time into my projects and I do not think it is unfair to be recognized by the recipient. I always use tracking except of course for  items sent through customs so I am aware when they arrive.
It is an absolutely beautiful morning outside. I do have work today, but then I am off until Tuesday. Plenty of time to keep my hands busy. Thank you for spending time with me....and for the kind words and emails. I value our friendship. Have a good day....

When the back bell rings......

Well, now that I have time to think, it all makes sense. My "quick" run to the market this morning...I thought they were giving away stuff it was so busy. Jo Ann's has been busy, traffic has been busy....and there are more of those dreaded golf carts around the neighborhood. You ask why? They're back! those snowbirds are back..
Oh you are wondering about the back bell...it means the Postman has a package that can not fit through the mail slot.

My Trick or Treat package arrived! all the way from South Africa...from dear Cucki. There is a sweet pair of scissors, some orange beads, a lovely pouch, a pattern and pretty fabric. Do you see the bright orange threads? and look at the pretty pillow. And purple thread too. Thank you dear Cucki! Hopefully my package will arrive at it's destination soon.
I finally decided on how to finish my 3 ornaments.... and which will go where. My SSCS exchange is complete...just have to gift wrap it all and it will be ready for posting when the date arrives.
Sunday was the first time our new Tatting group met...lesson 1..... the ladies, Madonna, Mary and Sue seemed happy to be with The Debra and me. Now they will practice until we meet next Sunday at the library again. Today is lesson 2 for my sewing machine....applique, embroidery stitches and twin needle stitching as well as wing needle. It is a little tiring as I go to the class room shortly after  I clock out...a 2 hour lesson. But I am looking forward to it. Belva is a good teacher who really knows all the 3 machines we bring to class. Well, my friends, I think it is relax time...work today....and sewing class #2! Hope your day is fun....