A bit of stitching and some scenery....

Blogging and crafty stuff has had to take a bit of a back seat, as it's been really busy at work and last weekend was spent mostly outdoors, trying to make the most of the weekend, as it may be all the sunshine we get! There are some pics at the bottom of Dyrham Park, a beautiful 17th century house and estate owned by the National Trust, where we spent a fabulous day last Saturday. There is a herd of fallow deer in the park which have been there for generations, since 1320 when the park was enclosed!

Last Sunday evening we went to watch the final launch of hot air ballons at the Bristol Balloon Fiesta. I got some nice shots of the balloons over the Clifton Suspension Bridge

Just to prove to myself that I have actually done something with thread lately, I looked back at my stumpwork picture in January, which I picked up again recently. It still needs a lot of work, the padding for the snail went wrong and will need to be redone, and the bottom of the marsh marigold flowers also need a revision, but, it is coming along, and I'm pleased with the cheeky expression on the far bird.

































Thank you all for your kind and supportive comments about my deciding to do a formal course. My course pack arrived on Monday and I had a nice letter from my distance learning tutor who is based in London. Yesterday I began in earnest on my first assignment. My arm was so tired after drawing for about 5 hours flat, I'm out of practice muscle wise! I really, really enjoyed myself though. I have to keep a log and sketchbook which will count towards my assessment, and I think I will do that as a specific blog. I will post about it here in case anyone wants to have a look.

Meanwhile, I hope it's sunny and pleasant for everyone, if not hope you enjoy these sunny pictures!