We got about an inch of rain yesterday and more is on the way. I'm looking out the windows and admiring the colors of the fall foliage. All this damp and drizzle makes it so much more vibrant. When the sun breaks through the cloudy mist, everything positively glows. Now that the weather has turned cold outside, I'm in the mood to start making things again. Oh. That reminds me...
I've got my fingers crossed and hoping that the "third time's the charm" on the latest book submission. I'm self-publishing blanket statement thru CreateSpace, an Amazon affiliate, and have been experiencing technical difficulties integrating text overlays created in Illustrator CS3. There seems to be incompatibility issues between programs and things aren't formatting correctly when it goes to print. My inquiry about it to "customer service" got a canned response that basically said, go back and read your program manual. Um. Not exactly helpful. Obviously, I'd done that already. Numerous times, and that particular problem was never addressed. Most likely because the problem exists on their end with using outdated software or something. So, it's been frustrating. I'm finding hope and help elsewhere though. And I remind myself that, this is after all, just another *learning opportunity*. I'll work through it eventually. For the most part I'm really proud of what I've accomplished so far. And even though I'm not exactly sure when the book will be available, I wanted to let everyone know that I am still working on it here behind the scenes and will sing from the roof top and bang on pots and pans when I finally make gravy!
In the meantime...the lovely rain continues here and I have new projects in the works. I want to show you, but I want it to be a surprise. So I can't. Not yet. Thanks for stopping by and making me laugh with your comments and spider stories. I do read each and every one and try and respond when I have a few minutes. I'm thrilled so many of you are utilizing the free embroidery patterns too. There's something so homey and personal about a decorated dish towel, don't ya think? I also think dish towels are perfect for beginners; if you mess it up, all is forgiven because, after all it's only a dish towel. So thread a needle and go for it!
In case you're wondering, and didn't see my note in response to questions in the comments section...I used 3 strands of floss for the bird and 4 strands for the flourish. And there are tracing directions here if you need help with that too. Happy stitching!
I can't wait for the "gravy" to be ready. I am listening for your "singing from the roof top and the banging of the pots and pans"! In the meantime, I love the fall pictures from your windows & I have downloaded the free embroidery patterns. Thanks again for the tutorials. Keep the faith. I know that you will be published soon. I have faith in you!
Posted by: Velma | November 04, 2008 at 09:29 AM
I've been looking out for your book because it sounds to great! I can't wait till you publish it... keep on persevering, it will be worth it!
Deb
Posted by: deb | November 04, 2008 at 11:43 AM
Oh my word! I was a few days behind in my blog reading and just read your spider story!! I laughed until I cried and I AM SO HAPPY--I thought I was the only person who reacted to spiders like that!! I always walk and move through the house very carefully when the seasons change for the very reasons you do! LOL!!! What a great story and I am so glad I am not alone in my spidery fears!! :)
Posted by: Sharon M. | November 04, 2008 at 12:22 PM
hey hows it going? i just found a comment from you on my blog from like ages ago. just thought i'd pop by and see what you were up to. i love the picture with you kitty in the window! awesome colors!
Posted by: vanessa | November 04, 2008 at 01:11 PM
Your cozy autumn pictures are so inspiring. It is humid and 85 here today. Can't wait for the book!
Posted by: Jennifer | November 04, 2008 at 01:21 PM
~Love the photos! Hope all goes well with your book! ~Mandy
Posted by: Amanda | November 04, 2008 at 02:30 PM
hi vickie! i've downloaded your november bonus embroidery freebie and I'm going into stitching mode sometime next week! Thank you for inspiring!
I love the view outside your window. It's just so cozy and dreamy. xx
Posted by: Christy | November 04, 2008 at 03:20 PM
i just love looking out your window! You certainly live in a beautiful part of the world - I cannot wait to see Christmas in your neck of the woods! And I cannot wait for the blanket book - what a thrill!
Posted by: lily boot | November 04, 2008 at 03:42 PM
I wish outside my window looked as beautiful as yours. Good luck with your book.
Posted by: Camille | November 05, 2008 at 06:52 AM
Thanks for reminding me of the dish towels I bought last April to make for my sister. If I start now I can maybe get them done by Christmas.
Good luck with the book!
Posted by: Teresa | November 05, 2008 at 07:22 AM
I always so enjoy your beautiful photographs. These are especially lovely! Thank you for sharing them with us.
Posted by: Linda | November 05, 2008 at 08:09 AM
Your trees are so pretty compared to ours! My driveway looks like branflakes...
Posted by: Kate Brown | November 05, 2008 at 09:46 AM
I love your sweet white kitty. My heart does a happy skip everytime you show her. That stairway pic the other day was just so darn CUTE! Your last picture today of your yard is stunning. Looks like something from a magazine like Better Homes and Gardens Country Gardens.
Posted by: cathleen | November 05, 2008 at 10:37 AM
beautiful photos!
Posted by: Vicki | November 05, 2008 at 02:25 PM
All your pictures are amazing but my favorite is the last one. Wonderful.
Posted by: paula | November 06, 2008 at 06:48 AM