This was a project I just completed for the shop. I must say it is not for the faint of heart. It was one of those 6 month projects that you work on here and there. This craft is called cross-stitch and basically it involves making little X’s with thread on a blank piece of linen. The thread is hand dyed and is simply beautiful–Simply Shaker! The pattern is called “Blessings and Kind Wishes” by Blackbird Designs. A good project for sitting in your favorite chair on a cold winter night with a fire in the hearth. ahhh…
Don’t forget that just because a craft is old and can look very country, you can always put a modern spin on it. Check this modern project out!
Yesterday I came home to my husband grinning sheepishly, waiting for a few words of praise from me. He had completed one of his first home improvement projects of removing fake rock paneling from our kitchen. 
When we bought the house, we knew we were going to have to redo the outdated kitchen and bath. It is rather exciting to be able to do whatever you want in your own place. Well, maybe not whatever you want…it’s not like I have money coming out my ears. We are thinking we are going to go the modern route. Neutral wall colors overall, with maybe a couple walls of more color throughout the house. I’m looking for a new couch in the living room that has really nice modern lines so that I can change out the look when I want to with colorful pillows and quilts. Here’s some paint chip colors we brought home.
I like that bluish/gray color and oranges, and Tony likes red/rust colors. We’ll show you what we come up with for the finished project. I am very excited by it all!! I can’t wait to use some of the fabulous fabrics out there is make curtains and other color splashes.
Yay, for being first time home owners!
