Aug 4, 2017

Progression



I started stitching samplers decades ago, mostly kits containing 25 count linen.  As time moved on and a shop sprouted locally, 28 became my favorite.  Moving forward, 30.   Availability of linen colors prompted attempts at 32.  How could I ever go higher?  Viewing Glenna's and Margaret's blogs featuring work done on higher counts just amazed me.  But one day, wanting the finish to be smaller, I tried 35 with one thread.  The difference?  Stronger magnifiers. Stitching on the higher count is no different than the lower when you have the correct magnification to see the weave well enough.  Those glasses were never used before but now, I use them for all counts, my latest favorite being 35.  My monster floor base Dazor mag lamp is only used for deep splinters.  Or a tick in my neck.
 
 So now, we're at 40.  The years of avoidance and apprehension are over.  I have arrived. Kris's gift was so tiny and sweet I just had to stitch it myself, on 40, my second 40 counter. (Chums is sitting on Mary Spinney.)  Except for a few designs that I could not resist, I really feel the stitch is over.  Just when 40 becomes a reality.  I don't mind the smalls but I have enough finishes for display and many are even put away.  I so wanted to have big girls Mary Spence, Mary Elliot, and Sarah Harvey and one day I may. 
 
Yep, I am thinking about closing shop for a while.  Work on some sewing projects, box tops, items for selling?  I don't know.  The number of readers has fallen according to Blogger stats, maybe it's time.  We'll see.  It seems the menocurse is once again creating a what-the-hell-do-I-want mental state.  Mark is encouraging me to continue stitching but I think there is an ulterior motive.  He sees me intently looking around the rooms and that instills fear in most men.  Fear that ideas, changes, disruptions may be coming before the last group is even finished.   Little does he know that the look is because I am ...
a) searching for misplaced items
 b) looking for a reminder of what I was just doing
 c) trying to remember the day of the week
 d) figuring how many Dove are allowed in my carb count
 e) wondering what I came into the room for
 f) is that a mosquito?
g) wondering if there is a spider in those cobwebs.
 
A few more needlerolls from Ann Sunday morning.
Have a great weekend.
 
*********************

37 comments:

Ginny said...

Marly, you need to do what's right for you. I do want you to know that I faithfully read your blog, even though I don't comment. Since I read blogs in a reader, blog writers have no idea I'm reading, but I am!

Anonymous said...

I check your blog every day plus look through your archives for inspiration. I would miss you terribly if you closed down. I went through a stitching slump then found an old chart in my stash and boom - the passion was back.

35 is the highest count I have used so maybe I should give 40 a try. A stronger pair of magnifiers is on my list. You are the best and I truly appreciate and admire you. Hugs from Kentucky - Kelley secrest


jan said...

Marly,

I hope you feel differently in a day or two. I will sorely miss your blog posts if you quit, but I won't be selfish. If you need a reprieve, you are entitled to it. Don't be rash - I know you won't - you change your mind often enough that tomorrow may bring renewed enthusiasm. You do really beautiful samplers.

Maybe for a bit try a different fiber craft. Have you tried punchneedle? It may be worth a try for you. Not as antique-looking, but fun to do, fast, and very forgiving.

I do hope to hear from you more. ... jan

Goofin' Off Around the Block said...

I am a new-ish reader to your blog. I hope that should you choose to change things up a big that you still update your blog every so often and check in. Hope you have a great weekend! Andrea

village folk art said...

Marly, you're not talking about no more blogging for a while...are you? I do not believe that will happen. You always find something of interest to talk about and it does not have to be cross stitched samplers. I may not always comment, but I am sure I do not miss many of your blogging fiascos, if you care to call some of them that?. I need variety and am thinking that is the crossroad to have reached.
Hang in there my friend, you will overcome.
Folk art Hugs,
Barb

Heritage Hall said...

Why not leave the cottage standing with the door open so we can enter and refresh ourselves with a visit to your archival treasures, while you rest upstairs in your garret.... sooner or later you will return to the frame and needle and create another inspired and inspiring gem to share with us.Just don't lock the door on your presence and humor and wonderful anecdotes about life in the primitive.

Mary A said...

Marly, I have enjoyed your blog for years and would be sad if you closed it. Your sense of humor regarding meno problems have helped me deal with it. I love your stitchery and though I don't make samplers, I find it very interesting. Your cats and decorating give me a lift. Never believe that you are not appreciated.

Truus said...

Do love your stories and will miss it when you are serious to stop with your blog. I read every time you made a blogpost.
Last time I read your blog on a tablet and often when I comment internet will crash and all I have said disapeared.

So fingers crossed this time its going allright.
Have a great weekend
Greetings Truus from Holland.

C M Designs said...

I would miss hearing from you, no matter what you're doing. Love your samplers, deer, kitties, flowers, outdoor decor, news of family, etc. etc. !
Maybe you need a day (or two) at the beach ?
You need to keep your fingers busy !
This slump will pass !
Take care, enjoy the weekend !
Charlotte in Va.

Fran said...

Marly, You are a funny lady. I hope you don't leave us for too long. I love reading your blog and seeing the beautiful pieces you create.

Jacqueline said...

I look forward to seeing your posts no matter what the topic and hope that you will continue. Selfish on my part I know. But there you have it.

Vickie said...

Marly good for you accomplishing the 40ct. I hope you find some sort of irresistible projects to work on. And come back to tell us about them. ;)

Penny said...

Please don't go! Perhaps a break from stitching is needed, but please continue to chat with us about this and that.... I so look forward to your posts! And perhaps the mojo will return in a while and you'll get the big girls (Mary, Mary, and Sarah) stitched after all!

Ms Peppercorn said...

Good Idea Heritage Hall. I have read some older posts on weekends when I need a Marly fix and quite randomly picked ones where I learned something great...one of them was pulling out a thread to see where to frame a finished item. Simple as that is I wouldn't have known to do that! I also thread my needle like you do. I love your blog, you know that, but take some time to yourself.

Maryann Olsaver said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Maryann Olsaver said...

Please don't go - look forward to reading your posts always! Your cross stitch topics are always filled with much information and love seeing your wip. Love all your topics :-)

Ellen said...

I have followed your blog for years. You are always educating and giving ideas. The fact that not everything works out exactly as planned yet looks fantastic, gives all of us out here in Stitchyland incentive to keep plugging away! Don't leave us without the updates on your life and the life of those who fill your out! I love to read it all!

Anonymous said...

Hello Marly, You are so very talented and witty. I love reading your blog. No matter what you blog about, I always appreciate it. Thank you for sharing your days. My day would not be the same without your blog post. Take care and enjoy the weekend. SAH

Julie - My Primitive Heart said...

Hi Marly,
It seems that blogging has slowed down quite a bit and many have stopped due to one reason or another!!! I have also felt those same things about closing my blog and wondered at times if what I share REALLY MATTERED!!! Then I hear something from someone that lifts me up and it reminds me WHY I do what I do!!! YOU are a JOY and ENCOURAGEMENT to SO MANY, and I hope that you will be encouraged by all these wonderful comments from readers and friends who love and appreciate YOU!!! Thank you for ALL that you share!!! YOU MATTER!!!
Take care and hope you have a wonderful and renewing weekend!!
Heart Hugs~
Julie

Halland House Gifts said...

I have enjoyed your blog over the years, Marly, and feel just as my fellow readers do. As far as walking into rooms and looking intently . . . yep, that's me. Hoping it's not early menopause 😳. This is one season I'm not remotely interested in being an early bloomer. Late blooming is just fine with me.

Linda said...

Just a blog reader who comments sometimes I sure enjoy your blog no matter what you post Your stitching samplers is inspiring and beautiful I Would hate to see you stop but understand sometimes we need a break Good Luck to whatever you decide Have a Great Weekend

linda m

Kristen said...

Nothing wrong with taking a break Marly, but check in every so often so we know how you're doing.

Margaret said...

I definitely use readers on top of my glasses to stitch. Can't see a thing otherwise. When I started out, I could see, but that was before I started needing bifocals and the like. Sigh. I worry that the next time I pick up my stitching, I won't be able to see it, even with magnifiers. Ugh. As for closing shop -- it's your decision. I do feel like blogging just isn't as popular these days. I miss it, but I don't miss it. Also -- get on instagram!!!! :D It's the best!

CathieJ said...

I love your blog posts. I have never tried those higher count fabrics as I just can't see them. I am just recently realizing that I may have to get a magnifier. You may close up shop, but I hope you don't stop blogging. I enjoy your thoughts.

Shelly said...

When I first started blogging, I blabbered to myself for a good while before I started getting a comment or two! I confess that I spend much more time on Facebook now and then find myself trying to read everyone's blog posts in one marathon evening. I myself post only 1 or 2 new posts a month when sometimes I would do 3! I don't want to quit though because I still have followers and some of them don't do social media like I do. So that being said, I think you always have something interesting to talk about especially this post. You hit it on the nail with the meno-brain! I walk around with my head just full of stuffing it feels like. My untreated hypothyroidism may have something to do with that too. Why not just take a break? When you feel like it, start blogging again. Oh, and have another piece of Dove!

Anonymous said...

I enjoy your blog...and I don't read many blogs at all, anymore! Most are self-important but yours is like chatting over a cup of coffee with a friend.

Anonymous said...

I must concur with the previous comments - love your blog! You are funny, witty, interesting, and very informative! Whatever you decide, please know you have brought many smiles to many faces...thank you Marly.

Lillian Carol said...

Marly, I agree with all the above comments and I too would be sad to see you go. You always bring a smile, or give me some stitching advice, or just give me something to ponder. I have been thinking about stitching on 40ct, it seems everyone is doing it now days. I've gotten as far as 36 ct with magnifier glasses of strength 4. I did purchase number 6 strength for just such a purpose, but as luck would have it, I can't find them! So I'm going to try it with the glasses I have....wish me luck!

Berit said...

I genuinely lol'ed at Mark's anxiety and nervous placating attempt. I have one here, too, in my house, only he is called "Marc". :D

A break is fine! I also have sewing an other projects that need me.

deb said...

Of course you should do what feels and is right for you! But I will (quite selfishly) hope you keep your blog and periodically let us know how you are and what you're doing - you're always good to listen to.

Sherry B said...



This too shall pass...and if not you will find another creative outlet. I read your blog daily not only for the beautiful stitching, but for the wonderful humor and experiences you have. Your posts have me laughing out loud. Could be because I identify with them so much !!

Robin in Virginia said...

I don't always comment, but I do read it. I enjoy reading your news, seeing your photos and what you are stitching on or thinking about stitching on. You would be missed if you vacated your blog.

Vera said...

I don't always comment Marly, but I do read and would miss your blog. But...your decision. I agree with Margaret that blogs are not as popular these days...everything is speeded up and everyone seems to use Instagram. personally, I prefer blogs.

debbie haggard said...

Marly, of all the blogs I read, yours is the one that makes me feel like I would want you for a real friend if we lived closer. I love your honesty, your spirit , and your dry humor.
Whatever you choose to do, know that there are many of us who care about you and who would miss you. Sending virtual hugs to you-

Maggee said...

You always have interesting, and entertaining blogposts. Would hate to see that end, tho I can understand when the thrill leaves. I went through that earlier this year, but it was not because of losing mojo or such... just other stuff. I am playing catch up even now, with a HUGE pile of finishing to get into, and half a dozen pieces to frame! Ah well, it keeps me busy so I don't strike fear into my husband as I putter around the house! Ha! Even if you don't stitch, posts like you are doing are great too... teaching about the needlearts that are reminiscent of times past. I always read, but I don't always comment, because I have nothing to add to your informative posts. You will do what you need to... but I think you can see from these comments, you are loved! Hugs!

Cricket-bug Corner said...

I would hate to see you go. I have been having trouble keeping up with my blog and by extension other people's blogs! You might like Instagram - basically picture sharing. I like it because out doesn't take much time - except I follow 600 people - I like seeing everyone's projects!

Anonymous said...

Marly, I always read your blog posts and maybe because I read through bloglovin' it doesn't show in the blog stats? Anyway, I'm going to echo every one else and say that you have to do what's best for you, but I will miss you. I am ahead of you on that menopause thing and behind on everything else. You are the best fantasy older sister that I didn't have. If you need a break, do so BUT not before you tell me (us) what your low carb high protein diet is! I have been ordered to lose weight and an eating plan that allows me to continue my Dove chocolate addiction is needed!
Seriously, thank you for all you bring to us in cyberspace - you have been a life saver for many of us and I appreciate your ability to say the exact right thing in the moment.

MiPat

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