Friday, April 16, 2010

Taking time to smell the roses

Sometimes we have to take a break from everyday life and "smell the roses" ( These beauties grace my table as a gift from my darling husband who encourages me to take more time)

Whenever I find that I'm feeling the stress of the day, I know I can hear you say now "Stressed how can you be stressed?". Stress is my middle name. I have been dedicating more time and effort to control the amount in my life.

So how do I smell the roses? Well beyond the obvious stop at my kitchen table to enjoy these blooms I also find myself crocheting or stitching. Whenever I do needlework of any kind it reminds me of my grandmother. She is an amazing woman. She raised 5 great children had a wonderful marriage, is an amazing cook and does the most exquisite crochet I have ever seen. I am trying to follow in her footsteps. I'm not going to post my crochet but I will share with you my latest project. It has taken me a long time to reach this point of completion. (A sad testament to how little time I have taken over the last few years for myself)

I fell in love with this pattern from Tracy Horner of Ink Circles. I want to have it completed by Christmas and framed.

What was appealing of BoInk ( Book of Ink Circles)? I love the Celtic theme. My heritage is decidedly Celtic on one side and I have been drawn to that culture for many many years.

This is one of the ways I smell the roses. It may sound strange to cross stitch while listening to 80's music sitting cross legged in my office chair but there you have it.

How do you all smell the roses? If you aren't yet I challenge you to find a way to do so. It will make a difference in your whole outlook.

Thursday, April 15, 2010

The Tudors Crown Jewels are Back-How Long Before You Lose Your Head?

My first Trendhunter submission. Tudor jewellery is one of my favorite jewellery styles. The opulence and elegance are unmatched. Will you lose you head to historical jewellery? I certainly did.

Here is the article for your reading pleasure.

Tudor Inspired Jewelry is Back-How Long Before You Lose Your Head? (VIDEO)