Ornament Exchange sent & received

I've done a Christmas Ornament exchange for so many years, I've lost track! It's my absolute favorite exchange, both to send and to receive. I've gotten so many gorgeous ornaments over the years! I love hanging on them on my tree and thinking about the stitcher - many who are still active on the MB, and sadly, some who I've lost touch with over the years.

This year, I stitched my ornie for Amanda. She said "anything goes" on the theme, so I went a bit daring a stitched a blue ornament. The pattern itself was a freebie from Martina Dey, and I jazzed it up with beads and snowflake buttons. Amanda said she loved it, so I'm very happy (and a bit relieved). Here is are pics of both the front and back of the finished ornament. Not the greatest pics, but you'll get the idea.

Two finishes!

But only one I can show. This is the Prairie Schooler halloween ornament from the JCS Halloween edition. I finished it just as it's shown in the magazine, except for the zigzag edges of the black felt.

The second finish is my exchange ornament for the Cross Stitch Crazy board. I've done this exchange for so many years, I can't even remember! I'll post a picture once the recipient has received it.

Where's Fall?

Oh, the weather is cooperating nicely. The past week has been lovely with temps topping out in the high 60's and overnight temperatures in the 30's (except for one night where it was 31!)


I'm talking about the trees. They're turning very slowly this year. I've yet to see that "pop" of color in my yard, neighborhood, or drive to work. We're going to Putnam County NY for R4's football game on Sunday so I'm hoping to see that "pop" I'm waiting for. But you'll have to settle for some pics I took late this afternoon from my back yard. And another pic of 2 of the 3 pumpkins we've got growing. Hopefully they'll be completely orange by Halloween!