It's 52 degrees outside today and I am a happy, happy girl!

That's all!

Usually my sampler design inspiration and my jewelry design inspiration come from two entirely different places. Antiques and early American folk art provide and amazing amount of inspiration for my sampler designs. For my jewelry, I'm more inspired by vintage "stuff." By vintage, I mean late 19th century and early 20th century.

This painting is an exception. While it's fairly early - early 19th century, the jewelry this stern lady is wearing is truly inspirational. Her bracelets seem to be made of hair which leads me to believe she is in mourning. I guess her black clothing is a give away too! Her brooch and rings are just gorgeous. Check them out!

Yesterday started the annual period in my life I call my "What Was I Thinking" period. Actually I call it my "What the H*** Was I Thinking?" period, but I didn't want to offend anyone. It's when I start de-Christmassing the house. I have eight Christmas trees to undecorate. I have hundreds of ornaments to wrap in bubblewrap. I end up filling up 12 of those big rubbermaid storage tubs with Christmas stuff. And, all the empty storage tubs are (where else?) up in the attic and after I fill them they have to go (where else?) up in the attic.

This wouldn't be quite so bad if I weren't right in the midst of getting ready for the Nashville Needlework Market. I have 3500 chart to put together before the end of January.

So, why do I do this to myself every single year?? I truly haven't a clue. I love Christmas. I love decorating for Christmas. I love every part of Christmas. Maybe it's because I was born on December 27th. Christmas is in my genes. Or something.

I wanted to share a photo with you of my Christmas gift from Anne. Isn't she wonderful?! She's hand carved and sits in the window sill in my living room watching over us. When Rose and Tucker notice her, they immediately start barking because they think she's very real!

Happy New Year everyone! I've decided not to bother with the resolutions this year, but to make a New Year's wish. I wish for a happy and productive year...a year filled with lots of time with family and friends, lots of creativity and lots of energy to do all I'd like to do. Sounds simple, doesn't it? My fingers are crossed!

May your 2009 be wonderful!