~~Harvest Moon by the Lake~~

How I add tongues to my penny rugs...

2012-02-11T14:03:00.001-06:00

This week I've been stitching as often as I can.

One good thing about winter I have more time to stitch!

I just love this pattern!

It looks so different just by changing the background.

I know I showed you this sunflower but now I have the tongues basted on.

A few tips on How I add tongues to my penny rugs.

1. Before I'm ready to add the tongues I mark the back of my top piece about 1/2 inch from the edge all the way around. This is my guide I use to line up the end of the tongues.

2. When I'm adding tongues to my wool applique I do the hand stitching on the 3 sides that will show. I then machine sew the bottom, chaining the pieces together. Make sure the tongues are in the color order you want them to be before you sew.

3. Flip your finished piece over and pin your chained tongues... remember finished side down. I then machine baste the tongues keeping them lined up with that 1/2 inch guide you made.

4. Pin the backing to the top and hand stitch using a blanket stitch. You will have to stitch the top and then stitch the back. I double up my stitching on the space between the tongues. Take out your basting stitches.

5. To finish I lay the top face down on a thick towel and place a double layer of muslin on top and press with steam. Lay on a flat surface to cool.

6. Enjoy!

I think the tongues add more color and a perfect way to finish off your wool applique.

If you have any questions just ask.

I'm off to stitch...I want to get these pieces done this weekend.

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

Chocolate Layer Cake....

2012-02-08T22:43:00.000-06:00

Need I say more?

I was looking through some pictures and came across this beautiful cake my girlfriend made for a holiday party I had. Notice the chocolate snowflakes? and chocolate bon bons?

Yes, it tasted as good as it looks.

I've been thinking about making this for Valentine's Day.

I just had to show you this picture of a doll I made using a pattern from Maureen of Sweet Meadow's Farm.

She makes me smile everytime I look at her!

Something Sweet and something to make you Smile!

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

Penny Rugs...

2012-02-05T15:50:00.000-06:00

I just love mixing all my hand dyed wools, wools and wool felt into making penny rugs!

With the black wool background anything goes!

It seems like no matter what colors you mix they all turn out so fun!

The color combinations are endless!

As you can see I mix the shape around to...round, oval and large oval.

See how fun it is to mix all colors in plaids and solids.

The one on the bottom right corner reminds me of citrus with it's lime, lemon, orange and grapefruit colors. They are not the bright neon colors but soft prim colors.

I also like using navy blue as a background. The colors seem to blend in more for a softer look.

I just love this gingerbread men and hearts penny rug!

It's perfect for Valentine's Day.

I don't usually make such large penny rugs. The cost of a large piece of wool is pretty pricey but so worth it when you see it sitting on a table.

This size...18 inches across is becoming my favorite...it looks soooo nice on my kitchen table.

Don't you just love these little men? Their little bow ties and buttons are too cute.

These little guys are getting me to think of gingerbread cupcakes....yummmm.

I think I'll make some for the Super Bowl.

We need something to get over the fact that the Packers are not in it.

I'm still crying in my (root)beer about it.

I do have some of these penny rugs for sale on ebay.

Click here to see what I have to offer.

One last idea....

How about this for your Super Bowl snack?

Someday I would like to try this.

I really don't think it would be that hard in fact I think it would be really fun to make.

Maybe next year....

when the Packers are in the Super Bowl.

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

Stitching Away...Here's What I'm Working On

2012-02-03T15:48:00.000-06:00

Since Valentine's Day is just around the corner I had to make a few Valentine penny rugs.

This first one is...

Scrappy Hearts

Each heart is a different red wool.

Use all your scraps to make this cute penny rug.

The pattern will be available soon.

I finished this one up and now it's sitting on the dresser in our foyer...tooo cute!

I'm still working on the tongues.

You might remember this from last year it was done on a light beige background.

I just love the sunflower.

This one needs berries and some stitching embellishments.

I like to work on a couple of penny rugs at a time.

Why?

When I have a new design or a new pattern I want to get started right away.

I plan on spending this weekend stitching in between carpool, basketball games and the Super Bowl.

I put up the round Valentine penny rug on ebay.

Click here to see it.

Enjoy your weekend,

Leanne

I knew you were coming so I baked you a cake....

2012-01-28T23:33:00.000-06:00

A Red Velvet Cake!

With cream cheese frosting, the heart is red jimmies (sprinkles for those of you who don't live in Wisconsin) and chopped walnuts on the sides.

It was Yummy!!

I haven't made a layer cake in a real looong time.

Infact it was so long I had to run out and buy cake pans. I really liked making this cake so much that I'm on the hunt for a recipe for my next cake.

I was able to use my snowflake plates and mugs. I love snowflakes! I found the snowflake napkin holder in a little gift shop...love those after Christmas sales! Even the napkins had snowflakes. I can't believe I had all that snowflake stuff around the house.

The cake should have been darker but I ran out of red food coloring...I like this color.

Click here for the recipe.

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

I'm Finished....

2012-01-27T13:52:00.000-06:00

I've been wanting to make this Pumpkin and Vines Penny Rug table runner for a long time.

I just love it!

It truly has been a labor of love....lots of stitching.

It's made from a nice this wool that I washed and put in the dryer to felt it.

It has such a nice feel.

I used hand dyed wools for the pumpkin, leaves, vines and tongues.

I just love the autumnal colors!

Everything is hand cut and hand stitched by me.

I love the little curly q's.

I love it on my table!

You could lay it on a bench or hang it on the wall or I've even laid runners on the end of a twin bed.

I decided to put this one up for sale on ebay because I made two of them.

I knew someone would love it as much as I do.

Click here it see what I have to offer.

I'm working on another wool piece that I'll share with you when I'm done.

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

Some Stitching and Stuffing and ...

2012-01-20T15:08:00.000-06:00

Wtih a little bit of stitching and a little bit of stuffing and some cute fabric along with some yarn and buttons you can get some cute dolls!

I just love the big smiles on these dolls.

The shoes and socks are too fun.

I like making her into an Americana girl.

Don't you just love the pinwheel? I love making and dressing dolls....picking out cute fabrics. With having 3 boys I need to get my girly fix some how. I made her using a pattern from Sweet Meadows Farm with a few of my own touches.

I just had to show you my little mouse pincushion.

She looks so cute sitting on her pillow.

Enjoy your weekend,

Leanne

My first E-Pattern....

2012-01-16T09:36:00.001-06:00

I've been asked if I make patterns of my penny rugs and I always said I don't but I would love to try.

Well, with it being so cold and between football games (I was just stuned when the Packers lost but we won't go there) I thought I would try making a pattern.

I have to say I really enjoyed it!

My first e-pattern....

~*~Snowmen and Snowflakes~*~

A Harvest Moon by the Lake Pattern

by Leanne

If you would like this e-pattern just look in my pattern page

you can purchase it on ebay...click here.

Enjoy Your day,

Leanne

A trip to a new quilt shop....

2012-01-08T11:25:00.001-06:00

well, the Quilt Shop was new to me.

We wanted to do something fun the other day so we took a day trip to Green Bay

where we visited the hallowed grounds of

Lambeau Field and the Packer Hall of Fame...saw all Four Super Bowl Trophies...very fun!

No, Lambeau Field doesn't have a quilt shop....

but there is a really nice quilt shop on the way.

Primitive Gatherings Quilt Shop

in Menasha, Wisconsin.

When we go on these male pilgrimages I try to find something girly I would enjoy.

My husband and son were so generous with their time...not once did they say let's go or that's enough shopping. They sat in the car for 45 minutes while I was in quilt shop heaven....thank you!

Now don't get me wrong, I could have spent the whole afternoon there but I know their limits.

The shop is cute and cozy with lots of wool, patterns, fabrics and anything else you would want in a quilt shop. There were plenty of samples made up and the employes were just a joy. I will be back it's not too far away only an hour and a half drive.

I have a few penny rug patterns from Primitive Gatherings...now I have more.

I'll share pictures of my goodies.

Christmas patterns were on sale.

Beautiful wools... I've been looking for some off whites...

golds for sunflowers...

and perfect oranges for pumpkins.

Antiquing spray

I'm going to use this on some of the counted cross stitch item I've been doing.

Finished up some Warm Woolen Mittens penny rugs.

I'm getting ready for my craft fair season in fall...since I hand stitch everythng if I don't start now I will never have enough.

I'll put a few of these on ebay...click here to see them.

My first attempt at counted cross stitch in about 30 years.

I have to say this was a really fun piece to stitch.

Look close... no mistakes...lol.

I need to finish it into a ditty bag might be awhile but I'll get it done before Christmas.

Today I'll be stitching...I want to make the gingerbread penny rug.

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

What have I been doing.....

2012-01-04T10:24:00.000-06:00

Stitching!!!

There is snow on the ground and it's cccold outside.

What better things to stitch but snowmen, snowflakes and mittens.

It sure feels good to be stitching again.

I haven't done any penny rugs in December.

These snowmen and snowflakes penny rugs add some nice color to my table after all the Christmas decorations are down. The house looks so bare.

I put away 18 bins and 5 soft bags of Christmas decorations...thank goodness for basements and and nice strong shelves.

Warm Woolen Mittens on a cold, cold winter day.

I hope you don't mind the show and tell.

I'll keep stitching...

If you would like to see more of my penny rugs I have more on

ebay....click here to see them.

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

What Are Penny Rugs?

2012-01-02T23:50:00.001-06:00

Happy New Year!!!!!
I hope you all had a nice holiday.
Mine was fun but very busy.
I took our Christmas tree down yesterday...what a job.
I've been collecting ornaments for atleast 26 years...too many to count.
Tomorrow down come the Santas...I'll keep the snowmen up for another month.

I thought I would start out the new year with an old post.
I have been asked many, many times....

What are Penny Rugs?

Many of you have been asking me about penny rugs and wondering what they are.

Well I will give you a little history lesson.

My penny rugs are all hand stitched by me. I enjoy making these little treasures. I love mixing wools and making different color combinations no two are ever the same.

I sell them at local craft fairs under the name

Harvest Moon.
I also sell them on ebay under the name

Harvest Moon by the Lake.
Click here to see what I have to offer on ebay.

If you would like to purchase one of these just email me.

Have a Happy Week,
~*~Leanne~*~

A Little Christmas Decorating

2011-12-05T11:31:00.000-06:00

All my decorating is done!

I already had two parties.

Bunco on Thursday and my high school friends on Saturday.

I love entertaining!

As in the past we will be hosting Christmas Eve and this year Christmas Day

which includes a Packer Game.

Packers for Thanksgiving and Christmas...it is a good year!

This is the top of an antique display cabinet.

It was used for shoes but now I have it in my dining room.

I use it for dishes and unique pieces I like to keep on display.

This is the top of my kitchen hutch.

The tree is in my grandmothers cookie jar...she always had the best cookies.

I'll share more pictures after I take them.

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

Why Am I Feeling So Christmassy?

2011-11-08T11:50:00.000-06:00

Because I've been working on Christmas!

I listed these item on ebay if you would like to see more pictures or purchase.

I only listed them for 3 days so if you would like to purchase you will have to hurry.

I have a craft fair on Sunday and I want to take these treasures with me if they don't sell.

It was so fun to do these one of a kind snowman heads...

finding the candle holders and old embelishments...

giving them personality when I added their smile.

And "Frosting" them with fine clear glitter and mica flakes.

I wish I could have found more candle holders because these guys were so much fun to make.

You'll see me at the local Good Will searching for more...lol.

I just love the look on this dolly's face...

I'm sure this cutie couldn't have been that bad to get coal.

I had to make snowgirls....

with warm flannel dresses.

I love gingerbread and polka dots so why not put them both in one doll.

Don't you just love that orange hair?

I can't make everything Christmas or Winter so this Homespun Raggedy is nice for any time of the year.

I love the wild hair....you know me...I'm all about the hair.

I just love this Annie and that bear is soooo cute.

She always smiles back at you.

I've been working, working, working.

I finished some wool applique, ornaments and penny rugs. My fingers are getting sore from all the hand stitching but....I love it!

I have a craft show this week and my last show next week.

Now back to crafting...

I posted all these things on ebay and you can email me if you would like to purchase from me or have any questions.

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

Trick or Treat Night

2011-10-31T20:27:00.000-05:00

Remember when you dressed up for Halloween....

and you go out with your friends in their crazy costumes...

and you bring home a stash like this!

I hope your Trick or Treat bag was full of the good candy!

Happy Halloween,

Leanne

Punchneedle Pins

2011-10-24T19:37:00.000-05:00

Where has the month gone?

I've been so busy painting, sewing, stuffing, punching and stitching that there hasn't been any time for blogging or ebaying but....

today I listed some punchneedle pins.

Sunflowers...

sunflowers and pumpkins...

more sunflowers...

yes, winter is coming and so are snowmen.

I have these listed on ebay...

Click Here if you would like to see more.

I made some really cute rag dolls I'll take some pictures and share them with you sometime this week.

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

Thanks Brewers....

2011-10-17T09:21:00.000-05:00

It Was A Fun Season!

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

Go Brewers Go

2011-09-24T08:29:00.000-05:00

Brewers Win Central Division....

and it couldn't happen to a better team!
Congratulations Brewers!!!!

That's my team!!!!

We ARE going to party like it's 1982.

That's the last time the Brewers won their division.

Yes, I was there in 1982...we partied into the wee hours of the morning.

This year we toasted with a margarita and went to bed...I'm a little order now...lol.

It sure has been fun around here!!!

I have a craft fair tomorrow

If you're around stop by to see me.

Cheery Cherry Craft Fair

Village Park in Menomonee Falls Wisconsin

Appleton Avenue and Garfield Avenue

Sunday, September 25th from 9-4

Enjoy your weekend,

Leanne

I Love Fall and More Favorites

2011-08-24T23:22:00.000-05:00

Did I ever tell you how much I love sunflowers?

I'm sure I have....I know I have.

Here is my favorite sunflower pin.

I just love these wool pillows.

The leaves are perfect for fall...my favorite time of year.

I started putting some of my fall decorations out...I know it's early but with getting ready for fairs if I don't get them out now they won't get put out.

I love the unexpected plaid in this penny rug.

I love the soft colors with black stitching in these coasters.

I love baskets...and yes I am a basket collector.

I love this little snowgirl!

Snowgirl is that a word?

Well it is in my book...why should men only be made of snow!

All these things were made by me!

I just listed them on ebay.

If you're interested in purchasing any one of my treasures

Click here.

I'm sewing like crazy and loving every minute of it!

My head is spinning with ideas for dolls, stitcheries, penny rugs...so many ideas not enought time...lol.

My first craft fair is September 17th...I can't wait.

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

I'm baaack....

2011-08-10T10:38:00.000-05:00

I'm back....

from vacation!

We took a little different vacation this year.

We drove to Washington DC...

with a few stops on the way.

I love this painting...

taken at the National Gallery of Art.

Our first stop....

Cleveland.

We drove all day and made it on time for....

an Indians game!

We had so much fun...

$1 hot dogs and Rock n Blast fireworks after the game.

The best part of all....

our hotel was across the street from the ball park...

I couldn't wait to lay my head on that pillow.

We had to see the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

We spent 6 hours in there and I could have spent more time there.

We also checked out the Brown's Stadium.

Off to our next stop...

The Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Jack had to wear his retro Clay Matthews jersey and his Packers Superbowl Cap.

It was fun going this year because the Packers won Super Bowl XLV.

Notice the ring Jack designed...

Green Bay Packers Super Bowl XLVI Champs....

that would be sooooo much fun!

We made it to Washington DC...

but before we visit the Capitol...

Another ballgame.

Nationals Park, this ball park was our favorite.

And guess what?

It was $1 hot dog, peanuts and popcorn day.

We liked these hot dogs best.

The Nationals is the home of the racing Presidents.

Here is Mike and Jack with George Washington and Abe Lincoln.

They also have Thomas Jefferson and Teddy Roosevelt.

We toured all of DC for 4 days...we thought it would take 3 but there was so much to see we added one.

We saw The Capitol, White House, Museums, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, the War Memorials, rode the subway and much, much more.

Back home but wait one more stop.

Can you guess where we went?

PNC Park to watch the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Now we didn't get $1 hot dogs...lol.

But we did see the racing pierogi's.

Well that's our summer vacation in a nut shell...

Now back to crafting and laundry!

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

Sweet Treats....

2011-07-26T11:53:00.000-05:00

I'm taking a little break....

from blogging.

Summer is flying by...

I need to take some time to get ready for my craft fairs....

check my display and make repairs and touch up some paint

so it looks fresh and new.

Try to find new ways to display my creations.

Look at inventory see what I have and what I need....

see how my new things will fit with the old.

I want to leave you with some pictures.

First some sweet treats.

This is a candy store in Vancouver.

I should stop looking at that picture...lol.

Everything is looking soooo good.

I listed a bunch of items on ebay.

Dolls....

some penny rugs and stitched pillows...

A little bit of winter...

think snow to keep you cool....

and some wool applique pillows.

I'll be back in a couple of weeks.

I don't want to miss our birth month!

All 5 of us have birthdays in August.

This year I will 24 on the 53rd of August!

It doesn't sound so bad that way...lol!

Does it?

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

I Just Love Sunflowers!!!

2011-07-12T10:13:00.000-05:00

Now that summer is here I'm thinking fall.

I know I should enjoy the nice warm weather but...

I Just Love Fall!

And what comes with fall but

Sunflowers and Pumpkins!

These are my punchneedle pins.

They are desigined by me.

Punched by me.

All hand stitched with a hand stitched pin back.

I love punching these pins!

I just listed these on ebay.

Click here to see them.

Oh, I hear laundry calling....

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

Have You Tried Making Cake Pops Yet?

2011-07-06T23:32:00.001-05:00

You have to try making cake pops...

they are so much fun!

My niece and I made these for the 4th of July picnic.

You need a box cake, frosting, sucker sticks, melting chocolate and jimmies...

sprinkles if you're not from Wisconsin.

Make the box cake according to directions for a 9 x 13 pan and bake.

When it's completely cooled break it into pieces and then small crumbs.

Add about 3/4 of the container of frosting to the crumbs.

Mix well.

Take about a medium cookie scoop of the dough, roll it into a ball and place it on a lined cookie sheet.

When you're finished place the cookie sheet in the freezer for about 15 min.

While the balls are cooling melt your chocolate.

I made my own double boiler to melt the chocolate

by adding water in small pot and then putting a glass bowl on top.

Put the chocolate in the bowl and bring the water to a slow boil.

The chocolate melts pretty quickly this way and you can keep it warm so its easier to dip.

Take a stick and dip about 1/2 inch of it into the chocolate and then into the ball.

I put the pops back in the freezer to harden the chocolate.

This helps the stick stay in the cake ball.

After about 10 minutes you can dip your pops in chocolate,

tap it on the side of the bowl to get rid of excess chocolate

an add your jimmies.

I used a Styrofoam block to place my pops in while they cooled.

I haven't figured out a good way to show the cake pops off but

I love how they look on this tray.

They are soooo yummy!

Give them a try!

Checkout the Bakerella website to see what you can do with cake pops.

I also added a few things on ebay,

Click Here to see them.

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

It's Summer in Wisconsin and That Means...

2011-06-29T09:30:00.002-05:00

Summerfest

Starts today.

The worlds largest music festival.

Click on the picture to see what it's all about.

I will definitely be going...more than once.

I'm not sure when but there is sure to be good friends, good music and good food.

We always have a good time.

Now you know why I'm not going to get much crafting done.

We also have relatives in town, Jack's baseball tournament, Brewers game and tailgate, our family's big croquette tournament and with the 4th of July holiday...
just to name a few of the fun things we'll be doing in the next week or so.

When summer hits Wisconsin we play hard!

Enjoy your day,
Leanne

Are You A Parrot Head?

2011-06-25T08:57:00.001-05:00

I'm going to see....

Jimmy Buffett!!!!

Bring on the Margaritas!!!!

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

This is what I've been working on lately...

2011-06-24T05:00:00.001-05:00

Penny Rugs....

and runners.

Doll bodies...

soon to be cute little raggedies.

Some punchneedle pins.

More penny rug candle mats.

I listed these on ebay.

With all the rain we've been getting I haven't been able to work outside sooooo....

it leaves more time to stitch or

sew or

punch...

that makes me happy!

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

A Little Shopping Trip...

2011-06-22T15:06:00.000-05:00

First I wanted to show you what I just listed on ebay....

These hand stitched Penny Rug Candle Mats.

These are made from wool...

the wool that I dyed earlier this spring.

I just love how these turned out.

And they were fun to stitch!

I know I'm going to make more of these.

Now to share the goodies from my shopping trip....

Jack number 11 in blue was in a lacrosse tournament this weekend

and it happened to be about 10 minutes away from one of my favorite

fabric stores.

Sooooooo....

In between one of the games I made a quick trip to JJ Stitches.

I got some new patterns.

And I also stopped in A Day In The Country for some

supplies for punchneedle with wool yarn.

I tried a little sunflower mat this spring and I've been wanting to make more for

my craft fairs this fall.

Happy Crafting,

Leanne

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-19T17:19:00.000-05:00

Happy Father's Day, Daddy!

Love,

Leanne

Oh What a Beautiful Day....

2011-06-06T10:34:00.000-05:00

It's raining no it's pouring...

but it's still a Beautiful day to me!

I haven't been here lately because it's been crazy around here...

Not a good crazy...

but a bad crazy.

I have been spending time visiting my brother in the hospital.

He is my only sibling an we are very close.

We even live only a few miles from each other.

Because of prayers from many, many people from all over the world...

he's healthy and he's back home.

Believe in the power prayer!

Your voice will be heard!!!

Treasure each day!

Take time to be thankful!

So you see why...

It's a Beautiful Day!!!

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

The Winner is...

2011-05-19T10:03:00.001-05:00

This is the penny rug I've been working on and this is the penny rug I'm going to give away.

The winner of this penny rug is...

Carol from Firecracker Kid

Congratulations Carol!

Carol please email me with your address so I can send off your penny rug.

Thank you everyone for entering.

Now I'm off to do some work outside...

it's sunny and I think we're done with frost at night.

I haven't bought any flowers so I thing I might do that today.

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

It's Time For A Giveaway And.....

2011-05-13T15:02:00.000-05:00

Well there have been blog problems here in blog land.

It seems like I wasn't the only one to have posting and comment issues.

So....

If you commented on my last post for the what I'm working on now giveaway please look to make sure your comment is still on there. I only have a few and I know I had way more then what is showing up.

Here's the giveaway information....
I'd like to celebrate the nice weather with a little giveaway.

It will be the penny rug I'm working on right now so I can't show you a picture yet.
Let's keep this real easy...
1. Leave a comment
2. become a follower and
3. live in the United States.
I'll pick a winner on Wednesday, May 18th.
I'll show you a picture when I get the penny rug done....maybe!

I listed some new items on ebay
Click here to see what I have to offer.

Click on the pictures to see the auctions.

I finished a few pillows....

I'm a basket collector...are you?

I love this wool flowers pillow.
I listed a few penny rugs.

A scrappy one in navy blue.

A pretty summer beige.

I love the colors in this wine colored one.
I added a few coaster sets.

I just love the penny rug pattern in these coasters.

I love the colors.

Don't forget to sign up for my giveaway!

Enjoy your day,
Leanne

Let's Have a Little Giveaway!!!!

2011-05-11T13:54:00.000-05:00

There's a reason why I haven't been here lately.

I've been outside...

the flowers are in bloom, the sun is shining, the temps are almost in the 70's.

Who wouldn't want to go outside?

I'd like to celebrate the nice weather with a little giveaway.

It will be the penny rug I'm working on right now so I can't show you a picture yet.

Let's keep this real easy...

Happy Mothers Day....

2011-05-08T08:03:00.001-05:00

I hope you are all treated like a

Queen!

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

Seattle With 3 Guys...

2011-05-04T10:28:00.001-05:00

So where do you go when you visit Seattle with 3 guys?

Since I've been to Seattle before and my older son has not we let him pick what he wanted to see.

Brian had fun visiting the local breweries.

The top of the space needle.

A tour at Safeco Field where the Mariners play.

The view from the press box...now that's the way to watch a ball game.

The opposing team locker room.

Jack was dreaming of having his name on that locker...

he would be playing for the Brewers.

Every girls dream....

the showers...lol.

Right across the street is our next visit to...

Qwest Field where the Seahawks play.

Jack holding a press conference after a big win!

I love going to the Public Market.

All the flowers....

and fish...not real fond of fish...

but it's fun to see what people will eat.

and more fresh flowers.

I love tulips.

And no trip to Seattle would be complete without a trip to the

original Starbucks.

Jack tried his first cup of coffee at this Starbucks.

After the first sip...

he said he'll stick to their hot chocolate.

I did find a little quilt shop at the Public Market and

I just had to buy these coffee themed fabrics.

I think this little bag would look perfect out of my new fabric.

I love going to Seattle!

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

Wool Penny Rug Pillows

2011-04-25T15:07:00.001-05:00

I've been working on these wool pillows...

I just love how they have turned out!

I added rick rack as trim all around the pillow.

I love how this leaf one turned out! I used the wool I overdyed.

The colors are so soft.

It was fun to put different color combinations together.

Before it was a pillow....

Now it's a pillow.
I love circles and polka dots...on almost anything.

I can just see this little wool pillow on a chair, bench or bed.

I'll be gone on a mini vacation to Seattle so I won't post for a little while.

When I'm there I will be sure to drink some of my favorite coffee.

On the plane ride there and back I will be working on penny rugs.

If you would like to purchase any pillows or penny rugs or other goodies I have some thngs
for sale here on my blog or

click here to see what I have on ebay.

So enjoy your week,

Leanne

Wishing You A Happy Easter

2011-04-24T10:50:00.001-05:00

I hope you all have a Blessed Easter.

After church put on your Easter bonnet...

get ready for the egg hunt...

but don't forget to smell the flowers.

On a side note....
we still have the head left of our lamb cake...
so it did make it until Easter.

Have a lovely day,

Leanne

A Family Tradition Continues....

2011-04-23T08:24:00.001-05:00

Easter is near and I thought I would share this old post with you.
It makes me laugh everytime I think about.
I'll share a picture of our lamb today at the end of this story.

This is the lamb cake my mother-in-law makes for Easter.

It's a tradition in my husbands family. The lamb is perfect for Easter and the cake is real yummy.
My husband loves the cake so much that we had to start our own tradition.
"The day before Easter you get to eat the Keaster."
This year I let him start it on Friday...big mistake...more than the keaster is gone.

We have 11 people coming for Easter brunch and the lamb cake was going to be my dessert.
Do you think I have enough?????

Problem solved!
We met my mother-in-law at church on Easter and told her how much of the lamb cake was gone. She brought hers over and twin lamb cakes...with no keasters.
I knew that would make you laugh.

This years lamb cake.

We started the lamb on Friday afternoon and this is what it looks like on Saturday morning.
We are not hosting Easter this year.
I don't need to save the lamb for dessert so I really don't care how much the family eats.
Do you think we'll have any left on Easter?
I don't....lol.

Enjoy your Easter,
Leanne

A Ray of Sunshine....

2011-04-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

I know the calendar says it's Spring in Wisconsin but someone has to tell Mother Nature!

Yesterday we had rain, sleet and snow all with temps in the 30's...yuck!

The flowers don't even what to come out and I don't blame them.

While the sleet was pelting the windows the doorbell rang.

A package for me...I feel so lucky!

I won Nancy's Spring giveaway

Click here to visit her blog.

I opened the package and this is what was in it....

The most adorable bunny box!

A cute butterfly pin was inside...

I wore it last night and got several compliments.

Nancy sure is a talented gal!

Thank you Nancy!

You are a Ray of Sunshine!

Happy Spring,

Leanne

Punch Needle and Sunflowers

2011-04-17T10:46:00.003-05:00

Punch Needle and Sunflowers is a good combination.

I recently tried punchneedle with wool yarn and an oxford punch. In order to to this I had to get a hoop that really held my base fabric tight. I bought this 10 inch non slip hoop at Joann Fabrics that has a grove in it...perfect for what I wanted to do and not a lot of money.

To see the sunflower I made click here.

This hoop worked so good that I thought why not use it for my punchneedle pins.

Problem was I had a 10 inch frame and my pins are only 2" by 3".

I would waste a lot of fabric and I don't like wasting fabric.

So...as my kindergarten art teacher would say "fill the page"!

Well I filled the fabric!

I have to say it was a real efficent way of making my pins.

This picture kind of reflects the weather around here...

flowers want to come out but the snow keeps coming back.

Even the back side looks good...that's always my goal.

Sunflower

I love making snowflakes

and snowmen

and sunflowers.

This week I should have enough time to get these made into pins.

I just saw that this is my 99th post and I have 96 wonderful followers
I think when I reach 100 in both it's time for a giveaway.
What do you think?

I'm linking up to Sew Many Ways crafty party,
Favorite Things at bargin hunting with Laurie
and
Sister Sunday at sisters of the wild west

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

About Me ABC's...this is fun!

2011-04-08T20:31:00.003-05:00

I saw this on Jeanette's blog, who saw this on Jenny's blog, who saw this on Tiff's blog and I thought it was a fun way to get to know me a little better.

About Me ABC's

Age: 52 Bed Size: King and I love it!

Chore You Hate: Washing floors Dogs: None

Essential Start of Your Day: Coffee with white chocolate mocha cream it's such a treat in the morning and seeing the kids and my husband off to their day
Favorite Color: Red     Gold or Silver: Silver
Height: 5'6 1/2" Instruments You Play: None
Job Title: Mom, sewer, painter, domestic engineer
Kids: 3 Live: Wisconsin   Mom's Name: Mom Nicknames: None
Overnight Hospital Stays: Baby deliveries

Pet Peeve: People Who Don't Follow The Rules
Quote From a Movie: "I'm just not cool enough"
Right- or Left-Handed: Right
Siblings: 1 very wonderful brother
Time You Wake Up: 6:00 Underwear: Yes, always

Veggie You Dislike: Peas and carrots
What Makes You Late: Fixing my hair, I used to be a hair dresser so my hair has to look just right...ha, ha

X-Rays You Have Had: Dental and ultra sounds
Yummy Food You Make: I make really good salads with homemade dressings, lasagna and white chocolate cupcakes

Zoo Animal You Like Best: Monkeys and giraffes

I had fun with that!

Now it's your turn....

Copy and paste this list,

fill it out and add it to your blog.
Leave me a comment so I can visit your blog and learn a little more about you.

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

I Love A Good Tip....And I Got A Good One For You!

2011-04-08T06:22:00.000-05:00

For the last few evenings I've been cutting out circles, circles and more circles.

Yes, I do cut each one out by hand.

It's really not that bad.

In one of my earlier posts I told you about how I was overdying wool well I wanted some circles out of that "new" wool. If you want to see that post Click Here.

I found these templates for circles at JoAnn fabrics. They are perfect for what I do.

I've used every size for various projects.

Now here's my TIP.

Yes, it's such a good tip I have to capitalize and bold it.

I use the templates to drawn a circle on sandpaper.

I used 80 grit because that is what I had, you can use whatever your have.

I then cut out the circles and mark what size circle it is.

You place the circle on your wool sandpaper side down and cut out your circle.

The sandpaper grips your wool and you can cut out a perfect circle each time.

I place the cut circles in bags labeled with the size.

You can use your circles to make a pillow top like this ~~unfinished~~ one.

These circles are coasters.

I made them last night.

I love the colors!

I can't decide if I like the black background or grey background better.

Well I hear laundry calling...

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

More Penny Rugs and I'm Working On....

2011-04-04T10:32:00.001-05:00

I just added more penny rugs to my penny rug and wools page

Spring Beige

Black with plaid pennies...reminds me of a scotty dog

Fresh lime green

Retro brown

I'm Working on Wool Pillow Tops...

using the wool that I over dyed.

I am just loving these future pillows. I want to keep them all!

I will list a couple here on my blog.

I aslo need to keep these for my craft fairs in the fall.

It's so much fun and I have so many ideas I'm stitching as fast as I can!

There's something about wool that I just can't get enough!

Do you feel that way too? Am I alone?

I also added so new penny rugs on ebay CLICK HERE to see them.

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

I'm Dyeing Here...Wool That Is

2011-03-31T09:49:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was dyeing day.

I have all this wool and most of it is grey or some shade close to grey.

I normally use rit dye to color my wool. I have used koolaid or food coloring when I was in a pinch.

I do my dyeing in the kitchen so I have to cover everything up.

I started with buckets...no, you don't have to use ice cream buckets like I did but it sure is fun to have ice cream parties just to get the empty buckets.

I had 6 different colors...yellow, lime green, red, orange, hunter green and blue.

I did have 2 extra containers to mix colors.

Mix the colors with hot water and let sit.

Yellow, plum, lime green and red.

I mixed red and blue for plum.

I put the box in front of the bucket so I don't forget what color is in the bucket.

Hunter green, orange and blue.

I did make a yellow green mixing the lime green and yellow.

The hunter green looked purple so I wasn't sure what I was going to get.

Gather your wool.

I put the wool in hot water and soaked it while I was getting the dye ready...about half an hour.

I let the wool sit in their color bath for about an hour to an hour and a half.

At this point I'm going to tell you to use gloves not the kind of gloves I used that had holes in them.

I finally took off the gloves and just used my hands.

I washed my hands often and used purel so they didn't get to colored.

I rinsed the fabric and then to the wash machine for a quick wash.

I don't want my colors to run on my finished pieces.

Into the dryer and this is what you get....

Blues and greens.

More greens and yellows.

Oranges and plums.

Some wools take the dye better then others but you won't know how your wool will take the dye until you try it...I think that's what makes it fun.

The colors are a little darker then what is showing up.

This is the same grey herringbone.

I just love how you can get a rainbow of colors in just one afternoon.

I couldn't wait to use my new colors.

I hope this inspires you to start dyeing...
you will love it!
Don't forget to become one of my followers.

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

Sunflower and Bittersweet Table Cloth

2011-03-29T09:21:00.001-05:00

I'm making progress on my Sunflower and Bittersweet table cloth.

I used some of the overdyed wools I made.

It's been fun and I couldn't wait to get this far.

I start stitching and I don't want to put it down.

Yesterday I was pressing it and do you see what happened?

Look closely...

There on the side....

No, I didn't get it dirty.

Worse than that.

I burnt the edge of the piece with the iron...I can't believe I did that!

I've been so careful while making this piece!

When you burn it...that's it.

Live and Learn I'll never do that again.

So my table cloth will be a little smaller then I wanted it to be.

Thank goodness I made the base a little larger than the pattern called for.

I'm hoping to overdye more wool this week.

I need some yellow tones and reds and maybe more greens and oranges.

I feel if I'm dyeing wool I should do a bunch because it takes a long time

to wait for the wool to soak up the dye. If I'm waiting on one color why not wait on several colors.

I'm so impatient I can't wait to see the new colors.

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

C&PLG Giveaway!!!

2011-03-27T11:10:00.001-05:00

The Country and Primitive Ladies Group...C&PLG is having a giveaway!

This Cute Little Raggedy Doll can be yours just click on the picture and she will take you to the C&PLG Blog site for the easy directions on how to win her.

Hurry because the drawing is April 1st!

This Cute Raggedy Doll was made by Pat of Yellow Sweet Potato.

I think she makes the cutest dolls! Her faces are always full of expression!

You can find Pat's creations on the C&PLG Blog just click on the yellow sweet potato page.

She has a REALLY cute Ice Cream Doll for sale...you have to take a look!

Shhhh, don't tell Pat this but the drawing for this Cute Little Raggedy Doll is on April 1st... Pat's Birthday!
So please leave a Birthday Wish to Pat under the comments of this giveaway post on the C&PLG Blog.

I hope you win, well you all can't win but I hope someone from my blog wins,

Leanne

Chocolate Chip Cookies

2011-03-24T09:14:00.000-05:00

So I did an experiment.

Saturday, I put out a plate of fresh baked chocolate chip cookies on the island.

How long will it take my family to eat a plate of chocolate chip cookies?

I usually don't make cookies outside of Christmas but I just felt like making cookies.

Kids were coming from everywhere.

Jack had 2 friends over and they told me they could smell the cookies baking.

Brett came home and asked what was wrong and why was I baking cookies.

Brian ~~ran~~ came downstairs because he smelt something good.

So how long did it take my family to eat this plate of cookies?

1 minute 23 seconds and not a crumb left!

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

OverDyeing Wool and A New Project

2011-03-23T09:46:00.001-05:00

I've read that overdyeing wool can be addictive but how could that be?

Well I just tried it for the first time and I get it!

Mixing colors and mixing wools...each wool takes the dye differently.

You don't know what you piece will look like until it's all dry.

How fun is that!

A surprise when you open the dryer!

A good surprise...not one of those bad surprises when you didn't check the pockets and a red pen ends up in the dryer with red spots on your clothes and dryer...not fun.

Oranges

Plums

Greens

Using the newly dyed wool in a project.

I bought this pattern while on girls weekend.

I can't wait to fininsh it. I usually don't use patterns for my penny rugs.

I'll show it off when it's finished.

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

Girls Weekend, quilt shops, wine....

2011-03-22T09:23:00.000-05:00

Girls Weekend with the Bunco Girls!

We've been doing this for years...about 12.

We usually stay within 2 hours away from home.

This years destination....Madison, Wisconsin.

Madison is the capital of Wisconsin. I have never been to the capital at least not this close.

So I had to have proof that I was there.

Saturday we went to a quilt shop, yarn shop, gift stores, for a wine tour and tasting. We had planed to do a brewery tour but ran out of time...spent too much time wine tasting. :)

My purchases were mostly at JJ Stitches a quilt shop.

I bought some patterns, wool and fabric...I can't go into a quilt store without buying fabric...it just wouldn't be right. :)

More purchases were at a gift shop A Day in the Country where they had punch needle with wool yarn.

You can make rugs this way. It looks a lot like rug hooking.

I just couldn't stop looking at the stuff. The yarns. The patterns. The finished samples. They have such a warm feeling, kind of old with a sense of history to the pieces.

I've read about punching with wool yarn on some of the blogs I follow and wanted to try it.

So I bought a oxford punch, a sunflower patter and the yarn to finish the project.

I started this sunflower mat and didn't put it down until I was finished.

I love punching with wool yarn! I will definitely be doing more projects!

I also did something different yesterday...I'll share that with you in another post.

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

Still Celebrating St. Patty's Day

2011-03-20T18:52:00.000-05:00

Saturday night we were still celebrating St. Patrick's Day...

You see this party is the party we wait for every year!

Our hosts are such gracious people they open their home to their family and friends.

They make all this wonderful Irish food and it is delicious!

Cold beer on tap.

They even have live music!

This years music was a little bluegrass and what ever the band wanted to play.

I tell you those kids were entertaining!

Young or old a good time was had by all!

Next celebration...Spring!

Leanne

Happy St. Patty's Day

2011-03-17T10:30:00.000-05:00

Happy St. Patty's Day!!!

Enjoy Your Day,

Leanne

Primitive Stitched Pillows...Welcome Friends....

2011-03-05T13:55:00.000-06:00

I just finished up a few more pillows.I really enjoy stitching .

The words are a little tricky but after doing a few curves I figured it out.

They are the perfect little size.

These will be perfect for my craft fairs this fall.
Right now I have these on ebay along with some penny rugs and raggedy dolls
Click here to see all my
Harvest Moon by the Lake offerings.

Enjoy your day,
Leanne

Still waiting for spring....

2011-03-04T16:26:00.000-06:00

This is what it looked like a few weeks ago....So pretty....
So fluffy!

Now the snow is getting a little old....
a little dirty....
just a little blah!

Still waiting for spring...
a little green grass...
a few flowers...
like tulips...
red tulips....
red tulips with long green stems.
Now I have a smile on my face...
have a great weekend!
Leanne

Stitching, stitching, more stitching and loving it!

2011-02-17T12:06:00.001-06:00

I wanted to try something new and I couldn't resist these little stitchery pillows!

I had some muslin that I tea and coffee dyed with a little bit of vanilla. I couldn't decide if I liked tea dying or coffee dying better soooo I put them together and it's perfect. When you can't decide choose both. The stitcheries were fun to do and making them into little pillows made them come alive. The patters came from Olde Time Stitchin .

I had a few little punchneedle pictures left from my craft fairs so I'm going to put them on ebay this afternoon. I just love these little pictures you tuck them anywhere. I just draw the picture on the punchneedle cloth and work on it until I finish because I can't wait to see how it's going to turn out. No two are the exactly the same because each picture is drawn freehand.

I love sunflowers!

And the color pink!

More sunflowers...did I tell you I love sunflowers?
I've put more penny rugs on ebay and some dolls with great starting prices for auctions and buy it now.
I think I'll add these pillows too.
Click here to see my ebay offerings.

Here's the pillows I stitched this weekend and made them up into pillows yeaterday. Do you think they need anything else? I like them prim but not too prim. Should I add buttons, bells, rusty pins, fabric bows.....? Should I dye them more? What do you think?
I found the "love my dog" stitchery at Samantha blog click here to visit her blog...she also has a giveaway going on right now.

Happy Stitching,
Leanne

We're Going To The Super Bowl!!!!!!

2011-01-25T20:32:00.001-06:00

Packers are going to the Super Bowl!!!!!What a great game!

I'm loving the celebrations!

Now to plan the Super Bowl party!

Go Packers,

Leanne

Packers vs Bears...It doesn't get better than this!

2011-01-21T08:56:00.000-06:00

Guess where I'll be on Sunday?

Sitting in front of the TV, with my family,

All snuggled up in my Packer gear.

Watching my favorite team...The Packers....play da Bears.
This is a huge game for the Packers.
There will be no cars on the road because everyone will be watching their favorite players....
Arron Rodgers
and Clay Matthews battle da Bears.

I'll get thirsty so I'll have a beer or two...

and of course some snacks.
I'll bring out my Packers helmet chip and dip bowl.

The kids and some friends will be here to watch the game so
I'll make a few appetizers....
no not this one...lol...but I just love how this looks.

I might make this mushroom and cheese stuffed bread...it's yummy.

For sure we will have cheese....

and more cheese.

We'll have some brats....

and burgers.

and watch our Packers!!!!!

Here's a song to get you in the mood....

Song

it's an oldie but a goodie.

Go Pack Go!!!!!!

Enjoy your weekend,

Leanne

Raggedy Red Annie And More

2011-01-03T13:28:00.001-06:00

I love red head Annies!

And I love how this Annie of mine turned out!
I designed her myself...I can't believe I did it but I did...designing is for talented people that can draw.
I love sewing Annies!I laugh every time I look at this School Girl Annie!

I made her from a pattern from Maureen at SweetMeadowsFarm.

Anybody feel like that when they were in school? I did...lol.

I love how this penny rug turned out!

I made while I watched the Packers vs Bears game.

Packers won!

It makes for a happy week!

I made this one too!

And all these!

I've posted these things and more on ebay.

Click here if you would like to see everything.
I'm also starting a selling blog
Click here to see my selling blog.

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

Ringing in the New Year

2010-12-31T10:48:00.000-06:00

Wishing you all a year full of joy, happiness and good health!

We were looking ahead on the calendar and there are a few fun dates

tomorrow will be 1/1/11

and in a few weeks 1/11/11

and in November 11/1/11

and later that month 11/11/11

Lots of ones...maybe one should be my new lucky number!

Cheers,

Leanne

Sharing Some Christmas Decorating Pictures

2010-12-28T09:24:00.000-06:00

Now that Christmas is over I have a little time to share some pictures of my decorated house.

I love decorating for Christmas!

Bringing out all the decorations that I have collected over the years and adding some new finds.

This is the top of the refrigerator.

The little elf was made by me about 15 years ago and the polka dot present cookie jar is new this year. I love polka dots!The top of the hutch in the kitchen. The cookie jar that the tree is in was my grandmas it didn't have a cover when I got it so it makes a perfect pot for the mini tree to go in.
Nutcrackers that were painted by my mom. She painted them for Jack.... what a wonderful gift.
The Santa sign behind the nutcrackers was painted by me.

The top of the hutch in the dining room.

On Christmas Eve before our guests were about to arrive I needed some kind of decoration for the kitchen island. I cut the cedar from the tree outside and placed it on the bottom of a plate. Then I took the tangerines that were in a fruit basket and sprinkled them with cranberries...the perfect decoration. It took me about 5 minutes to put together and I got so many compliments on it. See I do work best under pressure.

The dining room table before dishes.

The Christmas tree after Santa came.

The dining room table all set and ready for guests. I had the kitchen table set too but didn't take any pictures. Notice the color of the walls and the new drapes. If you look back to some of my earlier posts you can see the room with wallpaper.

That's all I have for now. I'm keeping everything up until January 6th when I have Bunco. I'm not sure we'll play Bunco...maybe we'll have game night. We played Tabu, Catch Phrase and Apples to Apples over the holidays and had so much fun I though it would be fun for the Bunco girls too.

Enjoy the rest of the holidays!

Leanne

Dining Room Makeover

2010-12-16T07:58:00.000-06:00

Dining room with wallpaper....

I have to say I loved this wallpaper but it was time for a change.

Below the chair rail was a burgundy sponge painted looking wallpaper.

Burgundy valances cover the top part of the windows.

What was under the wallpaper...

Pink Walls!

and more pink walls...

not a good color for the dining room.

Bring in the painters...yaaa right!

Did I mention I started this project December 1st.

I will post pictures of the after soon.

I will also share Christmas pictures too.

Wishing You All A Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-24T17:42:00.000-06:00

Enjoy your time with family and friends!

Leanne

More Stitching...

2010-11-16T09:28:00.001-06:00

I just love to stitch!The colder the weather the more I like to stitch!
I just had to share this table runner with you.
I didn't like putting this piece down...I just couldn't wait to finish it.
This runner is so long I couldn't get it all in one picture.
I have a few finishing touches but I couldn't wait to show you.
I want to offer this runner to you before I list it on ebay.

This "We Can Build" table runner is all hand stitched by me.
The size is about 32 inches long by 11 inches wide and
is made of solid navy blue wool.
The writing and snowflakes are hand stitched.
The snowman and his scarf are wool and blanket stitched on.
I added button eyes, stitched eyebrows and mouth with buttons down his front.
I blanket stitched all around the runner in black.
The back of the runner is grey plaid wool.

The cost is $29 plus priority shipping of $5

If you are interested in this "We Can Built" table runner please contact me.
You can pay thru paypal or personal check.
If paying with paypal I will send you an invoice.

When I'm not stitching I've been ripping the wallpaper down from our dining room.
Why did I start this project in the middle of craft season?
I don't know! Maybe because I'm a little crazy!
You wouldn't believe the color it is now...it's primer that I put on before the wallpaper.
I'm not going to tell you because I will take pictures and show you in another post.
Until then.....
Have a Happy Day,
Leanne

Happy Halloween

2010-10-31T19:08:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween!!!!!

Green Bay Packer Fans were the hottest costume this year!

I hope your bags are full of good candy!!!

Enjoy the night,

Leanne

Warm Woolen Mittens

2010-10-26T07:47:00.001-05:00

It's dark, it's raining, the wind is blowing, the leaves are falling off the trees and the temperature is dropping....yes, I think winter will soon be here!

What comes with winter?

Snow!

What do you wear in the snow?

Mittens!

I made these penny rugs on the way home from our long weekend trip up north.

It's a 6 1/2 hour drive so I had LOTS of time to stitch.

I was stitching a penny rug with circles when I thought I should make something new.

Mittens! I love Mittens! What goes on mittens but stitched snowflakes and of course they need a string to keep the pair together.

Do you remember when our mittens had strings attached?

The string would go up one sleeve of your jacket around the back and down the other sleeve.
We never lost our mittens.

The penny rug looked a little bare so I stitched the words "Warm Woolen Mittens" and sprinkled a few stitched snowflakes around.

I love it!

The penny rug turned out just like I wanted.

Get your warm woolen mittens ready....

Winter is near!

Making Dolls

2010-09-28T20:58:00.000-05:00

I just love making dolls!I have 3 boys and this is how I get my girly fix!
Did I tell you I love shopping for fabric?
And I love, love polka dots!
I had so much fun painting the faces of these dolls!
They seem to come alive when you put the sparkle in her eyes.

The above dolls are made from a pattern by Sweet Meadows Farms...I love her patterns!
If you would like to purchase any one of these dolls I have them for sale on ebay.
You will find more pictures and their descriptions.
If you would like to purchase one from my blog just email me at
harvestmoon at wi dot rr dot com.

This is my raggedy witch! I just love her hair and her little trick or treat bag.

Look at all those smiley faces!

Have a great day,
Leanne

A Rainy Day and Stitching Go Together

2010-05-07T08:45:00.000-05:00

It's a rainy day so I can't work out in the yard...

and boy does our yard need work...

but with a little care it's starting to look real nice.

I can't wait to plant some flowers but...

they are talking snow tonight...

yes I said SNOW!

Now I know inpatients don't like snow!

I've been planting the same flowers in the same color for about 10 years...

hot pinks and white.

This year I'm changing my color pallet to...

red and purple with yellow and white.

I already bought some flowers...

red geraniums and little purple wave petunias

but I'm keeping them inside until we get some better weather.

Meanwhile...

I just can't stop stitching...I think it's the perfect craft to do when waiting for Jack to finish up baseball practice or lacrosse practice or piano lesson...yes, our spring is full of activities.
I thought I would try something new...
all the stitching is in soft white...
I like it...
it gives the penny rug a fresh more summery look.

I'm always getting ready for fall...I can't believe I just said the "f" word when we haven't even seen summer yet.

But I love sunflowers and fall is my favorite season...

I thought I would make a larger penny rug in my favorite penny rug color...

lime green...

I think it needs something in the middle...

or maybe not when you put something on top it will look perfect.

Enjoy your day,

Leanne

So I'm on this diet...

2010-02-26T08:57:00.001-06:00

but I haven't lost any weight. Enjoy the laugh!

Leanne

Olympic Rings Penny Rugs

2010-02-24T11:12:00.000-06:00

I've been stitching while watching the Olympics. I wanted to put some of my new penny rugs on ebay and when I was taking pictures I thought... Hey! I have all the colors of the Olympic Rings!
I've been watching the Olympics almost every night so I'm getting a lot of stitching done.

Enjoy your day,
Leanne

Still Hand Stitching Penny Rugs

2010-02-08T20:28:00.001-06:00

I'm still stitching penny rugs.I really like sitting at night and stitching but to tell you the truth...
my fingers are a little tender from not wearing a thimble.

I would really love to be sewing on my machine but it's in the shop...for 3 weeks. I have some dolls all ready to be sewn and I bought a few new doll patterns that I can't wait to try out.

So as my machine sits in the shop I will look at all the fabric sitting, waiting, longing the be sewn into some cute little dress for a raggedy doll.
Back to my stitching...
or maybe knitting...
or maybe I'll rip the wallpaper down from my kitchen...
Leanne

Happy Super Bowl Day!

2010-02-07T08:46:00.000-06:00

The Super Bowl of Snacks and Pizza that is...I know I showed this picture before but it's the perfect "Snack Bowl" for the Super Bowl.

Enjoy the game

and

the snacks!

Leanne

You know this would be a better Super Bowl if the Green Bay Packers were in it...

they'll be there next year!

What You Looking At?

2010-02-03T13:58:00.000-06:00

Isn't that the perfect title for this picture?

We have a small patch of woods in the back of our yard and the deer come to visit once in a while. I think they come all year long but I only notice them when there is snow on the ground.

Yesterday morning we had a fresh inch of snow with on and off snow all day long. I'm thinking of spring but the snow was so beautiful I couldn't stop looking out the windows.

What's that? We had 6 deer in the yard yesterday but only three came up on top of the hill.
I love watching the deer.

I hope they're eating the weeds...I really need help with the weeds.

By the time the school bus came they were gone.

Have a peaceful day,

Leanne

February Giveaway at C&PLG

2010-02-01T14:11:00.001-06:00

I'm the hostess for the February Giveaway at C&PLGStop by the C&PLG Blog to see how to enter.

Good luck!!!

Leanne

Cold Winter Stitching

2010-01-28T12:21:00.000-06:00

Wind chills here are below zero but it's sunny.

My sewing machine is in the shop and I really miss it.

I thought I would do some hand stitching...more penny rugs.

First I needed some different wool...I love, love, love fabric shopping.

It's not easy finding 80-100 percent wool and when I do find it the price is up there. I hit the jackpot! I found some beautiful plaids and nice thick solids. I came home and felted it right away. Felting is the process of bonding the fibers of wool together or you could say I shrunk my fabric. I like the word felting better it just sounds so creative not like it was a mistake. Don't you just love the look and feeling of felted wool? It's so soft and aged looking like it has a history.

I made this penny rug for Valentine's Day.

I'm waiting for a vase of flowers to set right on top.

I made this little mitten penny rug out of a sweater that I shrunk, yes shrunk. It was my son's and I think it was worn once or twice before it was snuck in the wash and in the dryer with a several pair of jeans.

When life gives you a little sweater make a penny rug!

Keep warm,

Leanne

CPLG will soon be C&PLG

2010-01-21T09:29:00.000-06:00

It has taken a bit of discussion and prodding but it looks like as of February 1st the ebay group I belong to, Country and Primitive Ladies Group will be using C&PLG as the new initials you type in the search box to find our listings.

Here's our story as written by Maureen. You see, for a very long time we have used cplg and it worked like a charm...until ebay made some changes in the search process. At first we noticed a few plumbing accessories mixed in with our handmade items. It seems cplg is also the abbreviation for coupling as in pipes. We wondered if "Garage Guy" (as we nicknamed him) noticed his pipe fittings were nestled among raggedy dolls, stitcheries, candle mats and painted goodies. We joked that perhaps he would shop with us for his wife or girlfriend as he looked over his listings. Then we noticed he had more listings than we did and it really cramped our advertising style. Our group's pretty handmade items were scattered over a couple pages of nuts, tubes, PVC pipes in all assorted sizes, pipe fittings, hose couplings and none of them cute or primitive! lol This was not the shopping experience we wanted for our wonderful customers and so we have decided on this little change.

A few gals have already started using the new initials in their listing titles and we all plan on being on board by February 1st. So remember, when you are searching for wonderful handmade pretties type C&PLG in the search box on any ebay page and prepare to be delighted! I have added a C&PLG link in the sidebar of my blog.

Enjoy your day...I'm off to stitch some penny rugs.

Leanne

Pancakes Anyone?

2010-01-11T08:33:00.000-06:00

Chocolate chip or plain?Don't you just love it when someone takes over your kitchen and makes a wonderful meal?
Thanks Jack!

Happy New Year!!!

2009-12-31T09:53:00.001-06:00

Wishing you All a Happy, Healthy and Amazing New Year!

Christmas Dolls

2009-12-01T10:36:00.001-06:00

I just listed some dolls on ebay. I love the Christmas fabric on these dresses.
This little school girl cracks me up every time I look at her.
I love red heads and orange heads.

You know me I had to add a little snowgirl in the mix.

I just love making dolls!

I put up our Christmas tree last night while watching Christmas Vacation.

It took me 2 hours to put the branches and the lights on...I really want a new tree with the lights attached. What would I do with that extra time?

I'm off to decorate a little more.

Leanne

New Raggedies

2009-11-11T11:26:00.000-06:00

I added some new Raggedies to ebay. I used a pattern from SweetMeadowsFarm along with my own touches to make this Annie.
If you are interested in owning any of these cuties just let me know.

This Annie is my own design...I Love her sweet looking face and wild hair.

I Love her burnt orange hair!

If you woul like to see more pictures just click here...Harvestmoonbythelake.
Thanks for looking,

Leanne

My Not So Little Trick or Treater

2009-11-02T09:26:00.000-06:00

I just had to share a couple of halloween pictures.

Jack and his Jack-0-lantern.Yes that's his real hair!Jack and his friends had a blast!

HaPpy HaLlowEeN

2009-10-31T09:35:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween!!!I thought I would share a few fall decorations from our trip to Vegas.

This is the Palazzo.
Bellagio

Talking tree at Bellagio

Have a happy and safe day!

Leanne

Time Sure Does Fly!!!

2009-10-25T21:11:00.000-05:00

I just got back from Las Vegas...one of my favorite places to go.

This time we stayed for six days.

I know that's a long time but Mike and I needed to celebrate our...

25th Wedding Anniversary!

This is the view from our hotel room.
We stayed at the Signature at MGM.
This was our first time staying there and I have to tell you it was perfect!
From the moment we walked in it had a calming atmosphere and oh did it smell nice.

Our room had a balcony, which was wonderful! It was so nice to sit out there with temps in the 70's when at home it was in the 50's and raining.
We did alot of gaming, from betting on horses, football and baseball to slots to craps.

We went to see Frank Caliendo the comedian.
If you watch football I'm sure you know who he is. He is even more funny in person. I haven't laughed that hard in a long time. We are still laughing at some of his jokes.

We were in Vegas so long that one day we rented a car and took a ride to Lake Las Vegas, Green Valley Ranch and of course....
Hoover Dam.

It's a pretty impressive sight...just thinking how you would even start to build something like that. No we didn't go on the Dam tour but we walked all the way into Arizona.
It's a loooong way down...I'm looking for the door Clake Griswald walked out of when he was on the tour.

Now that vacation is over back to the real world...and back to crafting. I have 3 more shows all in November. I also want to put a few dolls on ebay and some things on etsy.
This was an outdoor fair I did before I left. It's not the best picture but it was a beautiful fall day.

Until next time...

Happy Fall,

Leanne

Looking Forward to....

2009-09-03T08:51:00.000-05:00

Packers Football!!!!Tonight is the last preseason game.

Look who's on the cover of this weeks Sport Illustrated.

Yep, that's our quarterback, Aaron Rodgers.

I like watching the Packers...

I get a lot of stitching done...the better the game the faster I stitch.

It's when I try new appetizer recipes...

you know everything taste better while watching the Packer game.

Wouldn't it be fun to try to make this?

The best part of watching the Packers....

it brings the family together.

Go Packers,

Leanne

What does a boy do on a summer day?

2009-08-06T20:20:00.000-05:00

Have a garage sale!

Welcome to Jack's Big Garage Sale!

Jack is the one in the blue shirt and white baseball cap.

Jack found some friends to help.

Notice the scarves...they help direct customers to the sale.

He wanted to offer valet parking but you need a drivers licence for that.

Customers!

This all started when Jack wanted to have a lemonade stand. He thought why stop at lemonade...I could sell some of my stuffed animals and t-shirts. What about some of my baby books, and old soccer balls.

An entrepreneur is born!

Yes, he sold lemonade at the garage sale.

Happy Summer,

Leanne

My New Annie

2009-07-31T14:17:00.001-05:00

I just had to pop in to share pictures of the new Annie I made.
I fell in love with the daisy fabric and knew I had to have it...I didn't know what I was going to do with it but I had to buy it.
I think this Annie is the perfect way to use the fabric.
I'm so happy with the way she turned out.

Happy Summer,
Leanne

I'm taking a break....

2009-07-02T08:43:00.000-05:00

I'm taking a Summerfest break!

Milwaukee's Music Festival...

One of the largest in the world!

11 Days with 11 Stages of all kinds of Music

great Food

awesome Friends and Family

Ice Cold Beer

What more do you need?

Have a Happy Summer,

Leanne

Today is...Funky Hair Day

2009-05-15T09:49:00.000-05:00

Today is Funky Hair and Hat day. It took two large handfuls of gel. Tons of hair spray. Some blow drying.
Red hairspray. White hairspray.
And a boy with an idea.

I just love days like this.
Jack asked me if you could wear his hair like this for his baseball game...I told he sure if you can get your cap on.

Don't you think it would be fun if adults could have a funky hair or hat day?

Have a Happy Friday,
Leanne

Flowers from my boys

2009-05-11T09:51:00.000-05:00

My favorite flowers...Red Roses.Brian and Jack
Brett

I had a wonderful Mother's Day!

Jack asked "When is kid's day?"

Altogether ladies...

"everyday is kids day!"

So...Happy Kids Day!

Leanne

What does baseball, sausages and Danny Gokey have in common?

2009-05-08T14:11:00.001-05:00

Miller Park

What do you do on a beautiful Friday night?

Go to

Miller Park

to watch the Brewers play ball.

It started with an idea....

This would make a perfect spot for a ball park.

Miller Park is the second ball park built on this spot...I just love this picture of Jack.

Miller Park

It has a retractable roof so we can take any kind of weather Mother Nature throws at us. This was the perfect idea because spring in Wisconsin can look a lot like winter. It's not that fun watching a baseball game in the cold and snow.

Ready to play ball.

Time for the racing sausages...

Polish (2), Brat (1), Chorizo (5), Italian (3) and the Hot Dog (4)

Go Dog Go

Today is Danny Gokey in Milwaukee.

He is singing the National Anthem tonight at the Brewers-Cubs game.

He will throw out the first pitch at the game too.

Go Brewers!

Go Danny!

The Craft Show has Started

2009-04-28T21:07:00.000-05:00

The Spring Craft Show Started Today!

This is the first time I have tried something like this and it's been real fun so far.

The ebay group I belong to CPLG is sharing a booth.

Come over to see what these talented ladies have to offer.

Happy Shopping,

Leanne

Do you play LaCrosse in the rain?

2009-04-26T15:37:00.000-05:00

YES!!!My son Jack is trying a new sport....lacrosse.

Here he is all geared up and ready to play.

This is the first game this team has ever played.

See how shiny and wet the parking lot looks. It's been raining and pouring the whole morning with no sign of sunshine.

Still raining.

It was about 57 degrees and pouring rain for most of the game.

I think the ball is somewhere in the puddle.
Well, Jack says he loves playing lacrosse. He said it was the most fun game he has ever played. If you can play the game in the rain, playing the best team in the area, loosing 15-0 and still say I love this game well I guess you do.
Jack, I'm just happy you can play something you love.
Baseball games start next week...another game he loves playing.
I'll be spending most of time at the lacrosse fields and ball park watching my favorite player.
See you at the game,
Leanne

I really want to sew!

2009-04-22T19:53:00.000-05:00

I've been spring cleaning

and although it feels good to have the house clean

I really miss sewing and my favorite things to sew are...Raggedy Dolls.
I like to make them for every holiday.

I love strawberries.I love this school girl Annie.

And polka dots are my favorite.

I have just one more room to clean and maybe I will have time to sew.

Have a happy day,

Leanne

April Giveaway at CPLG

2009-04-08T19:31:00.000-05:00

APRIL GIVEAWAY ~ Yelloware Eggs

These eggs are so adorable that I had to share. They are Becky's giveaway on the CPLG blog.

These eggs are ceramic with a crackled finish. One is banded and the other polka-dotted. They have a wire ribbon that can easily be replaced to better suit your decorating style, if desired.

Please visit the CPLG blog to enter the drawing for these cuties.

A winner will be picked on April 15th.

Good Luck!!!

Leanne

Still Waiting For Spring

2009-03-31T09:43:00.001-05:00

This weekend we took a quick trip to see my parents.

They live about 7 hours away in northern Wisconsin in a small town on the shores of Lake Superior.

Jack just loves it up there....what kid wouldn't with a back yard like this.

Lake Superior...still frozen in some places.
Even the beach is frozen.
We roasted hot dogs and watched the stars here last summer.

Spring is still far away here in northern Wisconsin.

So, I would like to thank all of you bloggers that are showing pictures of spring and flowers and gardens.

Happy Spring!

Leanne

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!

2009-03-17T08:59:00.001-05:00

Breakfast of Leprechauns?No, this is breakfast at our house this morning.

The leprechaun was here!

He left his green footprints all over the house, turned our milk green and left a few green goodies.

I always celebrate St. Patrick's Day!

I love the "happiness" of this day!

Have a lucky day!

~*~O'Leanne~*~

I become Irish every March 17th!

Punchneedle Pinkeep

2009-03-02T16:49:00.001-06:00

I just finished on of my punchneedles and I love it!

I just had to share it with you.
This piece told me it wanted to be a door hanger/pinkeep. I hand stitched the homespun back on and stuffed the little pillow with wool. I thought it needed something more so I added a key that I found in an old box from my grandma's home. That's just what it needed!
I think it's the perfect little prim accessory.
I have this pinkeep on ebay if you would like to see more pictures.
You will find it in Harvest Moon by the Lake ebay store.

Happy Stitching,
Leanne

How do I relax in the evenings?

2009-02-26T13:13:00.000-06:00

Punchneedle!I just can't sit in front of the TV without doing something and punchneedle is the perfect craft for that.

This is what the back looks like.

Some of the other pieces I finished.

Oops! Yes, I'm still stitching penny rugs.

Now I have to figure out what to do with punchneedle.

I love these little black frames...you know me and black...you can never have too much black.

Maybe attach them to a box or purse or make a little pillow with ribbon to hang on the cupboard door.

Bye for now I need to finish that heart picture or will it be a little pillow.

Happy stitching,

~*~Leanne~*~

My Deer Visitors

2009-02-19T17:21:00.000-06:00

After I had Jack off to school I went back into the bedroom, made the bed and opened up the blinds like I do everyday and this is what I saw.

Deer!

There were 9 that I counted.

It snowed a little last night so it was easier to see the deer against the white background.

I just love watching these quiet creatures.

I hope they're eating the weeds.

My visitors stayed all day long.

I even opened up the garage door, started the car and drove down the driveway and they didn't even look at me. I think they knew they were safe in our backyard.

Jack and his friend got to see deer when they came home from school. I don't think the deer are basketball fans because when the boys started playing they slowly walked up the hill and over to the neighbor's yard.

Goodbye deer visitors.

~*~Leanne~*~

I Think I'm Hooked On Painting Furniture!

2009-02-18T19:01:00.000-06:00

I started with this dresser and it's partner. It was an old dresser set that was passed down to my husband when he was in college about 30 years ago. It needed some updating.I have been wanting to paint this set for a long time but I couldn't get my husband to see my vision. I painted it black and added new knobs. I love the way it turned out. I am looking for a some granite to put on the top so I can use this as a bar when we entertain. The other painted dresser is in my son's room.
I had some left over paint and I just had to see how this little table would look. Another old table that my mom and dad didn't want anymore...I'll take it...you can never have too many tables. lol

I'm loving this table already and I still have one more coat to go.

Still more paint left so why not paint this mitten box.

Do you like my Spiderman table cloth?

It's recycled from my son's birthday party about 4 years ago.

It makes painting more fun.

Tomorrow I will be looking for more pieces of furniture. LOL

What Are Penny Rugs?

2009-02-09T20:21:00.000-06:00

I have been asked many times....What are Penny Rugs?

I posted this awhile ago and I thought I would bring this back to help me answer the question.

Many of you have been asking me about penny rugs and wondering what they are.

Well I will give you a little history lesson.

Penny rugs were popular in the mid 19th century.
They were made from men's wool suits that were no longer in use or left over pieces of wool fabric.
The wool was then felted.
Felting is the process of washing and working the wool to shrink it.

The women would use coins as their pattern to cut out circles.
This is where the name "penny rug" came from.

Penny rugs were not used on the floor.
The women would use these penny rugs on the tops of fabric covered chairs to protect them from the oil men used in their hair.
They also used them as decorative table covering or wall hangings.

Today we use penny rugs as decoration.
You can use them under candles, over baskets, stitched to a pillow, as a picture or wall hanging, as a hot pad or anything else you can think of.

My penny rugs are all hand stitched by me. I enjoy making these little treasures. I love mixing wools and making different color combinations no two are ever the same.

I sell them at local craft fairs under the name Harvest Moon.
I also sell them on ebay under the name Harvest Moon by the Lake.
Click here to see what I have to offer.

If you would like to purchase one of these just email me.

Have a Happy Week,
~*~Leanne~*~

~*~Harvest Moon by the Lake~*~

How I add tongues to my penny rugs...

Chocolate Layer Cake....

Penny Rugs...

Stitching Away...Here's What I'm Working On

I knew you were coming so I baked you a cake....

I'm Finished....

Some Stitching and Stuffing and ...

My first E-Pattern....

A trip to a new quilt shop....

What have I been doing.....

What Are Penny Rugs?

A Little Christmas Decorating

Why Am I Feeling So Christmassy?

Trick or Treat Night

Punchneedle Pins

Thanks Brewers....

Go Brewers Go

I Love Fall and More Favorites

I'm baaack....

Sweet Treats....

I Just Love Sunflowers!!!

Have You Tried Making Cake Pops Yet?

It's Summer in Wisconsin and That Means...

Are You A Parrot Head?

This is what I've been working on lately...

A Little Shopping Trip...

Happy Father's Day

Oh What a Beautiful Day....

The Winner is...

It's Time For A Giveaway And.....

Let's Have a Little Giveaway!!!!

Happy Mothers Day....

Seattle With 3 Guys...

Wool Penny Rug Pillows

Wishing You A Happy Easter

A Family Tradition Continues....

A Ray of Sunshine....

Punch Needle and Sunflowers

About Me ABC's...this is fun!

I Love A Good Tip....And I Got A Good One For You!

More Penny Rugs and I'm Working On....

I'm Dyeing Here...Wool That Is

Sunflower and Bittersweet Table Cloth

C&PLG Giveaway!!!

Chocolate Chip Cookies

OverDyeing Wool and A New Project

Girls Weekend, quilt shops, wine....

Still Celebrating St. Patty's Day

Happy St. Patty's Day

Primitive Stitched Pillows...Welcome Friends....

Still waiting for spring....

Stitching, stitching, more stitching and loving it!

We're Going To The Super Bowl!!!!!!

Packers vs Bears...It doesn't get better than this!

Raggedy Red Annie And More

Ringing in the New Year

Sharing Some Christmas Decorating Pictures

Dining Room Makeover

Wishing You All A Happy Thanksgiving

More Stitching...

Happy Halloween

Warm Woolen Mittens

Making Dolls

A Rainy Day and Stitching Go Together

So I'm on this diet...

Olympic Rings Penny Rugs

Still Hand Stitching Penny Rugs

Happy Super Bowl Day!

What You Looking At?

February Giveaway at C&PLG

Cold Winter Stitching

CPLG will soon be C&PLG

Pancakes Anyone?

Happy New Year!!!

Christmas Dolls

New Raggedies

My Not So Little Trick or Treater

HaPpy HaLlowEeN

Time Sure Does Fly!!!

~~Harvest Moon by the Lake~~