Snake Bookmark

I'm trying the Snake Bookmark pattern again. The first time, our snakes were started + we took over the bobbins after the beaded eyes had been added.

This time, I tried to figure out how to start - think I did ok, and adding the beads was not a problem as it is similar to adding beads with crochet hook when tatting.

I've chosen two shades of teal, a verigated red, and medium yellow. (perle coton #8). The Rayon Gold rush is white with sparklies.

I think I'm half way ... not sure our air conditioner is working - so very warm in the house. Maybe have to call a service person. Not looking forward to another repair bill.

Chicago Botanic Garden, Part Six

Chicago Botanic Garden, Part Five

Chicago Botanic Garden, Part Four

Our daughter takes beautiful photos. We had a wonderful afternoon walking thru the gardens.

Chicago Botanic Garden, Part Three

DD in front of Pat Kelly's booth.

DH in front of Pat Kelly's booth.

I bought two boxes of her (Kellys) beautiful note cards (one box being mailed to MIL). I think even selected a few more (DD has them).

And, of course, picked up a souvenier pin. I enjoy picking them up when I visit places. My collection continues to grow ... but, I enjoy collecting.

This is what the booths looked like outdoors. DH + I are in the middle (he in grey-lavender, me in yellow). Very sunny, very warm!

Beautiful Gardenia was in the conservatory. I was given a Gardenia at a restaurant in St. Louis - My (now) husband, then fiancee + I were talking about our wedding plans. The couple in the booth next to us were celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary. She began to cry as we were going thru our details. She came over and shared with us, that she and her husband (of 25 years) also planned their wedding in that very same restaurant. It was something I've never forgotten. It was magic. Such a special moment in my life. I had three gardenias in my bridal bouquet.

One day, soon, I'll have to upload more of the photos - the gardens were awesome that day!

Chicago Botanic Garden, Part Two

While at the Chicago Botanic Garden (7/3), I found the most
PERFECT dish for
silk pins (bobbin lace pins)

They were made by Spirit Dancing
Smoosh-Pots & Petal Bowls ...

ETSY link here

(I noticed Spirit Dancing will be in Frankfort, IL at the Art Street Art Fair on Aug 27-28.)

This was one booth of the Art Festival being held July 1-3.

The booths were so interesting! Note cards, pottery, photography, paintings, garden sculpture, print making, watercolor, ceramics, jewelry, beautiful items for sale.

I got such a kick out of the fabric handbags (daisy bags)- decorated with fabric flowers. Also enjoyed the charming Summerhouse bags. They were awesome.

And, let me tell you about Ferdinand's Flowers ... Link to ETSY here --- I just didn't want to leave her booth!!! charming flowers ; )

Jul/Aug 2011

PieceWork

I've really enjoyed this issue. Did you see the photo
of the pattern book of edges (tatted, crochet, etc)?
How awesome!

Chicago Botanic Garden, Part One

DH, DD, + I visited the Chicago Botanic Garden last week-end (July 3rd). DD took around 250 photos! Each more spectacular than the next. She has quite an eye for gardens. She has more on facebook. I hope to get them on my FB account soon.