hello...anyone there?

Hello.  My name is Chris and I used to blog a lot, but then life got really crazy...and it's been a few weeks.

This post is mostly for those who noticed my absence and checked up on me (thank you!).
I'm still alive, still struggling with my diabetes and juggling my new life, family, and (gasp!) career.  I also still sew a little bit.  The first pillow was my attempt at herringbone quilting.  I'm sure I did it the hard way, but I love how it turned out.  I just used scraps left from the quilt that I still haven't finished.

Then I got the bug to try some embroidery and a dresden plate.  Now to decide how I want to quilt it.  Someday it will join the herringbone pillow on the sofa.  Emboidery design via Nana Company.  I followed the Dresden Plate tutorial from Sew Mama Sew.  Can you tell what are my favorite colors of late?

I've also been working on window coverings.  First up, a sheer cotton voile drape for the back door.  You may notice there are two fabrics...I ordered just shy of what I needed and had to improvise.  It still feels unfinished.  I can't decide if I want to add some lace or pom poms to the hem.  What do you think?  I used magnets to make a tie back, and added a turquoise button for fun.  I wish I could take a better photo, but that's the best I could get with my camera.  My turquoise kitchenaid is just to the left, so the button ties in.  :)

I am also mostly done with cafe curtains for the dining area.  The curtain rod is actually galvanized pipe and fittings.  (Inspired by Simplicity in the South, found on pinterest)  It was the only way to have a strong rod to span almost 7 feet.  The curtains still need to be hemmed, but we needed a little privacy more.  :)  The fabric for both curtains I found on fabric.com.  It's really a lovely white with golden yellow.

Another reason things have been busy...we've had 3 birthdays in 2 months.  Today is Big Sister's 10th birthday.  (Hence the banner.)  We celebrated last night, with a special dinner and birthday cake.  My oldest boy actually did much of the piping on the cake.  My hands were really grateful.  :)

I can hardly believe this bright, capable, creative child is 10.  She is constantly doodling on any scrap of paper, and reads up a storm.  We love her so much.

To sum up, I'm doing better, and still figuring things out.  I hope this finds each of you happy, too.