These are the two current WIPs I'm working on.  Above is "Fragments in Time" series from 2023 designed after antique Berlin Woolwork by Summer House Stitche Workes.  Below is a reproduction sampler by Shakespeare's Peddler - "Sarah Woodham."

I think I’m suffering from “imposter syndrome”.  I feel like I'm wearing the title "Expert Stitcher" when really I'm sloppy and I have no idea what I'm doing.  Anyone feel this way?

Here's the reason for this malady - I was just nominated to be "president" of the needlework guild I belong to.  I was officially voted into the office of presidency for the "Northwest Sampler Guild" two weeks ago.   Why, how, what?  Last fall, a friend of mine from the guild asked me if it would be something I'd consider.  The current president has held the office for three years now and she's ready to step down.  Sadly, out of almost 150 members...there was no promising canidates so I was asked.  I naively said. "I'll consider it."  It's six months later and that's what happened. 

I'm not complaining - I'm honored to be a part of this amazing group of stitchers.  And I do have the time and heart to help.  But...I have no idea what I'm doing.  Most of these stitchers have been a part of this group for many years and they know each other well.  Many of them have stitched as long as I have but they've also taken classes and retreats and they know so much more about needlework, specialty stitches, tools and products.  I am not experienced in ANY of that!

So here's my plan...fake it till I make it!  I'm a good listener - I'm completely teachable - I have no ego and we'll just figure this out together! :) ​

Stitching retreats are rapidly growing in popularity.  It seems that with each Flosstube I watch or guild meeting I sign into...some stitcher has either just returned home from a retreat or is getting projects packed up to go to one.  Anytime I see one being advertised by a favorite designer or local needlework store - I feel a pang of jealousy and sadness for my lack of physical ability to attend one.

I'd love to sit in a room with a couple of dozen other stitchers and watch them sew.  I'd love to see what frame they work with, or what tools they use, and what patterns they are stitching.  I'm curious to watch someone stitch in hand and listen to the stories of how someone fell in love with the art.  My spirit craves the company of other stitchers.

So for now, I'm settling for a stitch-a-long.  Definition: a cross-stitch pattern (or series) that a group of stitchers have committed to do together and then display their progress as they go along.  I signed up for my first "SAL" with a group doing an exclusive pattern for Hobby House by Hands Across the Sea, titled "Florence Mary Dickinson."  As you can see in the picture, she is a very colorful sampler!  I started her on January 3rd, 2023 and I've been able to keep up (and even jump ahead) with my monthly progress.  

It may not be the same as a retreat...but for now it's satisfying my need for connection.
#handsacrosstheseasampler #florencemarydickinsonsal