A while back I shared that I was trying to stitch some Sashiko. I had learned about it on Susan' s blog "Plays With Needles". If you follow Susan you already know what an amazing stitching master she is.
When I shared my little sample piece (shown here still with the masking tape edge to contain the fraying) I was trying to stitch, Susan came to my rescue. I was using the proper Sashiko needle however I was using the full strands of Sashiko thread. She suggested I try using only half the threads. I didn't try that as I was almost finished with my little sample and wanted to keep it consistent.
Susan being the kind soul she is offered to swap some of her Sashiko fabric with some of mine that seemed to be too tiny to Sashiko stitch. I jumped at the offer. Unfortunately for Susan she got robbed. I merely sent a small piece of the fabric I had left. You know I will make it up to her...
In return Susan generously sent all of these fabrics you see pictured here. And the personal note card of thanks. I am the one saying, "Thank you Susan". I am overwhelmed with your generosity.
In this photo you can see the fabric in its original package. This one is white with blue stitch lines. I never would have noticed if Susan had not pointed out that the fabric has a stitching pattern direction shown by the tiny little arrows on the packaging. Oh goodness gracious I am glad you pointed that out to me.
Here is another package of fabric with the correct directions for stitching.
So I gathered my supplies of Sashiko thread wound on little cards, my Sashiko needle, some tiny scissors and the blue fabric in the first photo. It had no package with direction lines but I thought the lack of curves would make it a fine first attempt. Then I placed my gathered supplies into my carry-on bag for our trip which was to be long with many hours of sitting. I would love to quietly stitch during such times. However, we are not taking our trip this year. I have just been unpacking and found my little treasures. I think this will make a wonderful stitching project to begin on here at home while I am relaxing at the pond or in a comfortable chair indoors out of the bright sunshine. I normally keep some sort of project in my daily purse but of course had nothing with me during my recent long hours of sitting in hospital rooms. I was lucky to keep track of my purse and car keys. Thank you again Susan and I will be fondly thinking of you as I begin my stitching.
Mr. C continues to surprise me with his ability to heal. His abrasions are almost healed. The bruising is fading to an unattractive yellowish and purpleish color. His breathing is still different but better than it was. I believe that all of the prayers and care and concern have truly helped and we are both very grateful. Mr. C is truly amazed at how so many have come forward with well wishes.
Our weather is glorious. Yesterday I worked in the yard while I had hired helpers do all the major property weed abatement and mow/edge the lawn. What a relief to have the fire fuel minimized. I should have taken before and after photos but never did. One of the helpers was actually able to retrieve the big rock from the bottom of the pond and re-place it after the bears had knocked it down. At times I thought my helper was going in head first as the rock weighed more than he did. I extra tipped him for being so persistent and hard working. Good to have things back in place and cleared of weeds.
I haven't spent much time in the studio but I do have plans to play and work very soon. I will update later.
May you be enjoying your Summer or Winter and making art that feeds your soul. Blessings...
