Rain and Reindeer

Design - "New England Reindeer Sampler"

Designer - Elizabeth's Garden

Fabric - 36 count Creme Brulee R & R linen

Fibers -Needlepoint Silks - 1 stand over 2 threads

Started - 30 December 2011

Completed - 24 January 2012

The design called for two strands of NPS, but I decided that looked too bulky with the 36 count linen.  I used one strand over two threads, and am pleased with the coverage.  I think this is an extraordinary design.  It uses just two colors - and repeats motifs over and over - and manages to create a wonderful bit of thread art!  I guess the symmetry of the piece is pleasing to my eyes.

Well, the rain began at 4:30am Tuesday morning, and it hasn't let up since.  You'll need a raincoat and wellingtons if you're going to join me on today's walk.

Unlike the other Oaks on our property, this small Oak has kept its leaves all through the Fall and into Winter.  I've walked over to look at it a couple of times and it is alive.  It must be some kind of hybrid pin-oak.  I wonder what critter dropped the acorn and from whence it came.    

The Hazel Catkins flutter in the wind and rain.

Besides the catkins, the Hazels are forming buds.

On a rainy gray say, this patch of chartreuse moss glowed.

The Osoberry (Omeleria ceraisformis) is one the earliest plants to bloom in the Spring. It too is setting buds.  Last year it was in bloom in April - you can see a photo with this link. 

The Pussy Willow is also forming buds.

I think this small bunch of moss and lichen would make for a charming hummingbird's nest! 

The Green Tree - Leafless but green!

This Ash tree is in dense shade.  Moss has covered all but the tips of the branches which still retain seeds.

That's it for our walk today, it's time to come in out of the rain.