Flosstube 27: Paris, January stitching & help me choose my 2019 starts

[@industrioushead]

Dear Meike, I love your flosstube posts! Blue is also my favorite color and it’s great to see all the varied ways this color can be stitched. Thank you also for sharing your life and challenges of the past few months. Yes! It does help others, as I can identify with so much of what you have been through. When you shared that the copping mechanisms we adopt to help us make the issues go away end up making us disappear; that hit home with me. So true. You are a beautiful soul inside and out. 💕

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Emily!

[@ldrstitcher]

Dear Mieke, I'm getting caught up with flosstube & I'm in awe of the good (but sometimes difficult), life-affirming decisions you have been making while being true to yourself and taking care of yourself these past months. Thank you for your openness -- you will never realize how much you are helping others. I loved hearing about Paris -- what an amazing trip! I vote for projects 3, 6, and 9 although it is very difficult because all of them are gorgeous. Sending you a big hug, Lisa

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so, so much, wonderful Lisa. Your comment brings a smile to my face this morning :-) Sending you a big hug back!

[@TheDistractedStitcher]

Your Paris trip sounds amazing! I spent a summer there many years ago, and it was fun to see the places I'd visited, too! So glad you were able to experience the magic of Paris! For your new starts, I vote for #s 5, 7, and 11. Thank you for sharing your life with us, too. Having a good therapist is such a blessing, in so happy you're getting help and feeling better. Much love to you!! 💙💙💙

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much! Much love back! xx

[@janetmoate8448]

Hi Mieke - Yes, thanks for letting us vote! I would love to see you stitch #6 Celtic Snow (gorgeous!!), #10 Midsummer Garden, and #12 Underwater Garden. All 17 were gorgeous projects and I love the same blues as you do so any of them would be delightful. You have inspired (enabled lol) me with your colour choices and your approach to converting patterns to the fabrics and hand-dyed silks that you love! I confess that it never occurred to me to do that! What new vistas have opened up!! Thank you also for sharing so candidly about your burnout and health concerns. I'm glad that you have a therapist to help you through the recovery process. My prayers and thoughts are with you.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Janet! It's incredibly nice to read that you inspire someone. Thank you for that xx

[@debraking9891]

Aw Mieke I love your videos - I could listen to you talk for hours. Blue is also my favourite colour but you take it to a whole other level xx

[@DarlingBluebell]

Blue is the very best! :-) It makes me happy!

[@ladybirdstitcher4200]

It sounds like Paris was just what you needed. You’re looking really well. I loved seeing your new starts. The first one was stunning, but then the next was even more beautiful and this pattern seemed to continue. It’s so hard to choose 3 projects from the 17 kits that you have, but I like the 2 Northern Expressions Needlework projects and the Satsuma Street one. I’m glad that you are receiving the help you need. Take care and happy stitching 🧵

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thanks so much, sweetheart! Yes, Paris was exactly what I needed indeed. Such an energy boost :-) Happy stitching to you too, and thanks for the votes!

[@petiablagoeff4509]

Mieke, great video as always. OMG that Paris trip was way overdue for you. Your progress on the WIPs is great and your love for some of the pieces shows thru your work. My vote is for: 2, 11, 14. Be strong, life throws us a lot of balls, but we get stronger and stronger each day. YOU CAN DO THIS! XXXX

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Petia! Yes, Paris was a kickstart in the right direction: upwards! :-) So glad we got the opportunity.

[@StitchingIsMyHappyPlace]

Hi Mieke As soon as I looked at you my first thought was how well you are starting to look again, that makes me really happy. It looks and sounds like you had an amazing few days in Paris and how fortunate are all European people that they can be in another country within a few hours. Here in Australia, we are still in the same state after the time - lol! For your new starts, my choices are #1, #2 and #15. All gorgeous and a hard choice to make. How wonderful that your Company recognises and is assisting in your rehabilitation, they obviously see you as a valued employee that they don't want to lose, which is absolutely great. Take care dear Mieke and as always, you are in my thoughts. Hugs Marie x

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so, so much, wonderful Marie! Haha yes you're right, one of the great things about Europe is having so many countries and cultures closeby. Can't wait till I get to return to Paris! :-) Much love, thank you for keeping me in your thoughts xx

[@donnaramsey9122]

3,9,11. All are fabulous. I so enjoyed "our" Paris vacation. So beautiful.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you & noted! :-)

[@kowgirlkatepaintsaplenty8573]

Blessings Dear brave Meike! I cant pick from among those beautiful kits, but would throw my votes into whatever ones make your heart sing ;) Stay wonderful, you've totally got this and we'll be cheering you on!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Kate! I'll have a good long look at the list to throw 3 votes into them... ;-) Big hug!

[@sampsontoledo3467]

I'm happy for you that you had so much fun in Paris. I loved your story that you met Meg and you all embraced as old friends. I've been to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida and I know the excitement that you talked about. I was in Disneyland in California when I was 12 and Pirates of the Caribbean was my favorite ride. Your WIPS are gorgeous. I enjoyed your video and look forward to your next one.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you, Jan! :-) That moment of first meeting Mev is one I'll treasure forever.

[@passionforcrafting1161]

Happy to see an update from you... you got quite a lot of stitching done! As for the starts: 1. Woodland Vines (you knew it, right?), 2. Dimensions Indian Peacock, 3. NEN Celtic Snow... Can’t wait to see you again in April at retreat, missing you so much! Enjoy your time in Spain! Dunja

[@marshakruze6056]

I am so happy that you are seeing some light at the end of the tunnel. What a relief for you. I put my three choices for you in an order. #1 is Double Dutch, #2 is Celtic Snow and #3 is Birds and Bees. I fell in love with Double Dutch when I first came across it years ago. I love the colors and I love samplers. I also love bees so that was a no brainer. Celtic Snow because you still have young eyes and while it's impression is blue what is more unique than a snowflake. You are unique too. You have gorgeous things to pick from. Good luck.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Marsha!

[@CMD586]

Thank you for this video. I’ve dealt with mild anxiety my whole life. Recently it’s been getting worse. I think I know why. Some of the things you said about coping mechanisms and being afraid of being afraid really struck a chord with me. I’m sure that’s true for many people.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much for sharing Christine. Wishing you much wisdom and strength for dealing with your coping mechanisms. We're not alone, for sure! :-) Much love.

[@angelaspringett1262]

You look and sound fantastic☺. This episode has sew much great content. I've watched this one and off during two days lol. Now I need another to decided which projects you should work on lol. great stitches as usual☺. France/Disney sounds fantastic and Mev sounds very special. Mental health is Scarry, when it takes hold of me, I try to remember that things will get better. Much love

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Angela! Much love back to you xx

[@foranika68]

You just look so much happier and healthier, I'm glad to see and hear you had some wonderful days in Paris. Lot of nice projects too, my favorite three are Nr. 8, 13 and 15. Best wishes from a more quiet viewer...

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much! :-)

[@charlottelacy1518]

The ink circles woodland vines. The HAED peacock I think you will love working on him plus having him finished. The dimensions kit of a fairy is really nice. Be sure to read instructions and make sure you are ready for the full coverage challenge.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you, Charlotte! And thank you also for the Dimensions advice.

[@lyncampbell1626]

Yeah! Delighted your had such a fantastic time. The ears are so wonderful. So many beautiful projects. My three would be 1. Six Pages - that fabric those thread - stunning. 2. Birds and Bees - wow! 3. Double Dutch - so pretty. Make 2019 YOUR year. Best wishes.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Lyn! :-)

[@sofiamochon-ciniglio4010]

I still need to go to paris....it sounds beautiful and you are inspiring me to go! Thanks so much for your story...

[@moka-millenniumstitcher9675]

My votes go to numbers 2, 9 and 15 (Woodland Vines, Blue Village and Indian Peacock) :) It's nice to hear these good news. Good luck on your journey to recovery. You got this! 💙

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you & noted! :-)

[@karinmonnich3310]

I love Satsuma Street - Blue Village, OwlForest - Underwater Garden and Dimensions - Spring Fairy. I love all of your kitted up projects, I would also have a hard time chosen them. Your segment at the end was very eye-opening for me and your explanations were very clear. Hang in there and take care of yourself.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you, Karin! :-)

[@scstitcher2178]

Thank you for sharing Paris! Love your videos! You are always in my prayers!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Wendy!

[@stitchwitchhazel8598]

What a great selection of WIPs and possible new starts. I hope you stitch them all eventually. My votes for the first 3 are numbers 2, 9 and 11

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you & noted! :-)

[@patriciaheinrichs6994]

You are looking wonderful. I am glad you are in better health. It sounds like you are on such a positive path now. Thank you doe sharing, it took a lot of courage to do so. I too had an episode years ago and had to step back and pay attention to myself. We women with a profession have to work much harder than men to achieve or goals. We put so much on ourselves don't we. You will be much stronger when you are through and will handle stress in a more positive way. You will learn to set boundaries which women often don't do either. Take care. I so love your videos!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Patricia! Oh gosh yes, you're so right. The work place is still very much a man's world. We have a long way to go before our awesome feminine qualities get as brightly as spotlight... Thank you so much for the sweet words and encouragement xx

[@mikytova]

Mieke! Oh girl, you are so brave and inspiring for sharing your story! I am glad you feel better. Now regarding your possible new starts, I think you should start all of them this year. I mean, what the heck, life is too short, treat yourself :) LOL, no seriously, my favourite are 4, 12 and 16. I have never realised how many blue fabrics and threads there are until now :) PS: love your earrings xxx

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Michaela! Haha yes I know what you mean. I do want to start all of them. And I probably will... ;-) Just not all at once. My 14-15 starts from 2018 were a little overwhelming. It was a lot of fun, but I feel like I would enjoy my pieces more if I would give them more time. So I'm trying to spread things out for this year.

[@shandraparker9063]

I vote Shades of blue. Shades of Blue is in my list of "Finish in 2019". I will totally do it with you.

[@DarlingBluebell]

What a great idea! :-) Thank you xx

[@glynisjordan4816]

Hi Mica, so glad you are getting the help and are feeling better now. Your trip is just what you needed by the sound of things let hope it’s onward and upward from now. My favourite three pieces would be 3 4 and 16 although all are very pretty, good luck!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you, Glynis! :-)

[@kerryokeeffe7683]

Lovely to see some pics of your Paris trip, glad you had a great time. My vote would go for 4,5 and 7 although there are many lovely new wips to choose from. Happy stitching!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you & noted! :-)

[@darlenel-k-dlklife]

Glad you are doing better. Loved hearing about your trip and even my husband commented about how happy you sounded talking about the trip. My votes are 2 - Woodland Vines, 5 - Spanish Bleu and 7 -Shades of Blue. I am also a blue person so that is why there were my choices.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Darlene! And thank your husband as well from me please. ;-)

[@conniecheatham5250]

Woodland Vines, Double Dutch, Birds and Bees. But, they are all beautiful.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you & noted! :-)

[@AllisonRosenisacraftygirl]

Your description of your trip to Paris was the best I've ever heard - thank you for that:) My vote is 9, 10, and 12.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you! :-)

[@lisafall1904]

So glad you are doing better! I love Paris as well, what an amazing city. Please start #4, 10 and 13. Have a wonderful February

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you, Lisa! Wishing you a wonderful February as well!

[@seamssewvintage]

My vote is for 6, 10 & 15

[@bethannhenry7619]

What sweet and generous sharing g. I'm glad you're taking care of Yourself. Impossible to vote on those starts. All of them!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Hahaha it IS impossible, isn't it. I have a hard time choosing myself. Thank you for the sweet words!

[@margieandrobbiegordon9074]

I vote for Ink Circles and the Dimensions peacock butterflies.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you & noted! :-)

[@karendavis-macon9658]

Hello Meike...love seeing your list of potential starts for 2019!! More so I love voting...1. Double Dutch (which is an active WIP of mine...it is beautiful working with Gloriana) 2. Birds and Bees 3. Indian Peacock. GOOD LUCK and I am sending a hug because you are on your way to being Meike!! HAPPY STITCHING TODAY AND EVERYDAY!!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Karen! How awesome that you're working on Double Dutch. Do you have Instagram perhaps? I'd love to follow your progress through that beautiful piece.

[@juliegomery2792]

Hello, Mieke, I am so glad for the progress you are making in your health , physical as well as mental! Your Paris trip sounds magical! It is so hard to just pick 3 from your lovely box.. . I vote for Double Dutch by Spanish Cove, Celtic Snowflake by NEN, and my last vote is split, Rainbow Parfait from Glandon place, Lang Patroon by Joka, or Midsummer Garden from xju.. Happy choosing! Whatever you pick looks like a joy for you to stitch and for us to watch :)"

[@DarlingBluebell]

Hahaha you just made it so hard for me, Julie! Nah I'm kidding. I have loads of trouble picking my favourites as well. Thank you! xx

[@jerihaney5743]

I'm glad things are moving up got you. I chose 3, 12, and 16.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you & noted! :-)

[@rosmarie7013]

Really difficult to choose, I would say 3, 11 and 15. I could tell from the beginning of the video that you feel better and I'm very glad that you confirmed this impression in the life update. Thank you for explaining it so well. All the best wishes for the coming weeks!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thanks so much, Rosmarie! It means a lot if people who actually know me in real life can see that I feel better. Thank you! xx

[@lynettedavies3164]

Loved your video - so many beautiful projects to see plus all the fun of your trip to Paris! I vote for Double Dutch (I started this as my new year start stitching with recommended Gloriana silks - it is stunning!), Shades of Blue (I’m also working on this one! I have almost 3 pages complete out of 12 -again, stunning!) and Celtic Snow - I don’t have this one but it’s beautiful! I’m so pleased to hear that you are feeling somewhat better and that you have found a therapist that you are happy with. Hopefully 2019 will be a much better year for you.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Lynnette! How exciting that you're working on those beautiful pieces, I can't wait to start them as well.

[@judithhenwood8791]

Thank you enjoyed your video. Take care.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you, Judith!

[@terribland7275]

I would love to see you stitch numbers 4, 11, and 16. You are looking great, keep up with taking care of yourself.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you & noted! :-)

[@HeatherConfettiStitcher]

Oh sweetie I'm so glad you've found something that works. I'm wishing you all of the best with it. My votes are for the peacock butterfly, spring fairy and rainbow parfait. But they're all beautiful!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thanks, darling! :-)

[@lianah8948]

I am stitching with Holiday blue right now while watching you ;) thank you for the Paris story. My choices - 4,5,8

[@DarlingBluebell]

How fun! Isn't it just the most gorgeous thread ever. :-) Thank you, Liana!

[@melissaobrien8119]

So happy to see a video from you! I am picking 3,5&17.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Noted! :-) Thank you.

[@deborahrheinholtz4896]

I vote for numbers 3, 4 and 15. I did the Dimensions Peacock for my sister and it's my proudest finish so far. Lovely pattern choices you have.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you & noted! :-)

[@andreac-iheartcrossstitch]

You described you trip to Paris so well that I felt like I was there with you. I'm so glad you had a wonderful time with your friends. Is there a way for us to buy Joke's designs and threads? My votes are for Spanish Bleu and both Northern Expressions Needlework designs. The life update was deep. You have honestly given a lot to think about and I thank you for that. I hope you enjoy your stitching!! 💙💙💙

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you, my lovely friend! Joke sells a few of her patterns and threads on their website, borduurparadijs.com. It's not her entire collection by a mile though. If you can't find something, you can always feel free to shoot them an e-mail. Their e-mail address is listed on the website as well.

[@evelienjol7169]

Wat fijn dat het met je therapeut goed klikt en dat ze zo snel tot de kern van je problemen is doorgedrongen. Mijn gedachte tijdens je verhaal was dat je een stapje in de spiraal omhoog bent geklommen en ik ben blij dat je dat gevoel zelf ook hebt. Mijn top drie is, in willekeurige volgorde: rainbow parfait, blue village en celtic snow. Nu meen ik in de gauwigheid gezien te hebben dat Patricia dezelde drie had gekozen 😉; ik twijfelde nog even over de spring fairy maar die komt dan toch op plaats 4. Groetjes Evelien

[@DarlingBluebell]

Dank je wel, lieve Evelien! :-)

[@halfstitchcrossstitch2456]

So very happy that you have found a therapist that you trust and is helping you already. This is wonderful news and I’m praying for you as you travel this difficult path. The results will be so worth it.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Dena! Thanks for praying for me, that continues to mean a lot. Hugs to you xx

[@emilybweber]

Happy new year! My vote is Double Dutch, Birds and Bees and Lang Patroon. Lovely blue stitching!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you & noted! :-)

[@bekbannister]

Hey Mieke, I loved your video. I thought your advice about explanation about spiralling and emails was interesting. I find emails overwhelming and it is hard to not just avoid them, even knowing that then they just build up. It was hard to just choose three but I think #2 (woodland vines), #10 (midsummer garden on vintage fabric), #6 ( Celtic snow). I love the colour choices and am super excited to see your new starts. Cheers,

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Bekah! :-)

[@paulashelgren5696]

Indian Peacock, spring Fairy, Celtic snow is my 3 choices for your start

[@DarlingBluebell]

Noted! :-) Thank you.

[@lisasstitchingandsuch]

Paris sounds wonderful it's awesome to have a local show you around! My picks are: Woodland Vines, Underwater Garden and Indian Peacock - that was a difficult choice to make :P. I also burned out at work and it developed into anxiety that was effecting all aspects of my life which forced me to seek therapy. In fight or flight my body/brain says flee - flee far far away. So true about learning to fear fear itself. I explain it as anticipating anxiety which causes anxiety and then just like you say avoid the thing that I anticipate will cause anxiety. The therapy gave me tools to help manage the anxiety then I began to confront situations and things that I anticipated would cause anxiety, step by step, and my world which had begun to feel so restricting opened back up and my confidence came back. I'm so glad I got help when I did!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, wonderful Lisa! I so very much recognize the 'flee far away' reaction that you describe. I do the exact same thing. I'm so glad to read your world opened back up to you - that's what I'm desperately aiming for as well. Thank you for sharing, you give me a boost of hope that I'll get there as well. Thank you!

[@NoviceStitcher]

as i have 3756 right in front of me (my pattern calls for it) i can say yes, it is a gorgeous color and it definitely looks like ice. i am so happy to see you. you look better. the getaway was good for you. if you were trying to hide anxiety and depression you did a good job. one of these days i am going to win the american powerball (lottery) and I will visit everyone. you will be right on top of my list right next to ignabor for Europe. I love love love you and your stitching. your stitching and color changes your visions of how the piece turns out, the ability to say something is wrong even if it looks beautiful shows you to be an advanced stitcher and I dearly like to sit at your feet and absorb all you could teach me

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much for the sweet words! Although honestly, I don't consider myself an advanced stitcher at all. With regards to colour choices, it's all just a feeling. I'll look at a combination and go 'nah' or 'yay!'. It's just something I was born with (my mum has the same ability). Nevertheless, I'll cross my fingers for you to win the lottery ;-) Please let Ingeborg and me know if you ever cross the big pond. I bet it would be really nice to meet up and show you our beautiful LNS.

[@alysandra305]

such beautiful projects!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you!

[@mevstitchesinparis5382]

Darling, darling bluebell, dear friend... What can I say... I cried and smiled and laughed, I relived our whole day together, got goosebumps all over listening to you talk of my beloved city, was litterally pinned on my couch waiting to hear the happy ending ;-) Thank you so very very much for allowing me to remember but also (again!) to see this place I know and love with beautiful new eyes. Such a wonderful gift. And then came the treasures... So many beautiful patterns, and threads and fabrics and arggggh! I swear between you and Latisha, I have absolutely no chance of resisting... The Silks4U hanks for example; not only am I visiting their website once a week but now I'm on the lookout for patterns for those... Thank you so much for sharing ALL of the things, and you know I mean ALL of the things. You are a beautiful person and I feel extremely lucky, as I think we all do.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Meeeev I miss you so much!! Seriously, I have thought of our Paris day EVERY day throughout January. It has been such a gift. So beautiful and energizing. I know, Latisha and me are a deadly combination, aren't we... If I could earn a living out of enabling people, trust me I would, haha. Silks4U is pretty stuff. Just a word of caution: the hanks look less bright in real life than they do in pictures and in videos. The shine of the silk makes the colours appear more saturated than they are. But yes, they are very tempting... I have considered in the past to stitch Wiehenburg pieces or Long Dog Samplers with them. Or even Modern Folk Embroidery pieces... Am I enabling you even more now? :-P Big hug, my dear friend. Can't wait to see you in April!

[@katescrimgeour3884]

For sure I would choose Celtic Snow, Birds of Happiness, Indian Peacock by Dimensions and one of the Ink Circles (because they are both on my wish list and I'd love to see them done up). Mind you, I like all of your choices and I would just like to see you to do them all.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you, Kate! Hahaha don't worry, I love all of these and I want to start all of them at some point in the future.

[@louisedavis2128]

Another great video, my vote would be 8, 11 and 14 xx

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you & noted! :-)

[@joyfulcrossstitch]

So thankful that you seem to be in "refreshed" state. I recall that last year you made a tough decision to break up with your long term boyfriend. Prayers for continued healing.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Sandra!

[@hellaltsillas]

I vote for Lang Patroon, Underwater Garden and Spring Fairy.

[@LindaStitches]

You are such a good storyteller! Your Paris memories brought tears to my eyes, remembering my trip to Paris with my daughter last May ❤️. Your Cross stitch work is absolutely stunning! I am not a big fan of roller coasters, either! 😳

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much! xx

[@aftonfarm63]

Numbers 1, 7, and 8!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Noted! :-) Thank you.

[@juliewaterbury3321]

2,10,17 Enjoyed your Paris adventure pictures!!!! You look happier than you have for awhile... Happy New Year!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thanks so much, Julie! Yes, I feel quite a bit better compared to a few months ago. Hoping to keep climbing up the hill now. Thanks for your votes! xx

[@patriciavanroekel8856]

Hahaha dat achtbaan verhaal 😂 ik voelde me zó schuldig toen we die looping ingingen 🙈 en wat betreft de starts: 1. Blue Village (verrassing hè?) 2. Celtic Snow 3. Rainbow parfait (wat is die mooooooi 😍) En eigenlijk ook alles wat ook maar enigszins doet denken aan een bounty eiland natuurlijk 😂

[@DarlingBluebell]

Hahaha niet schuldig voelen! Het was uiteindelijk een supergrappig moment toch :-D Hahaha je bent heeel slim de regels aan het buigen hiero. Dank u dank u. Ik zet nog een extra streepje bij Spanish Bleu dan maar (helemaal niet in m'n eigenbelang ofzo... :-P)

[@FiberFlossandFiction]

First! Thanks for sharing your Paris/Disney trip with us - great photos and video! It looks like a total blast and I’m so glad you were able to go and have such a great time with friends. (I have never been to Paris OR a Disney location, but definitely on my wish list for someday.). If you have a reason to come to the Southwestern United States, I would love to be a tour guide for you. We don’t have Disney but we have oodles of amazing locations, vistas and lots of churches and cathedrals to enjoy (some awesome food too). Second! I’m picking Midsummer Garden (on the yellow fabric), Spring Fairy, and Celtic Snow. I have it kitted up too and if I wasn’t on a no-start-19 challenge, I would start it with you! Or save it for 2020 and we could SAL it. :D. Finally, thank you for the you update. I”m so proud of you for working so hard to get yourself back to being in a better place, and figuring out how you have to do that. I think making the decision to figure out how to live the best life you can, and being willing to ask for help (and take it when it’s available and offered) is a HUGE thing. Sending you lots of virtual good vibes, positive thoughts, and lots of hugs. Take care of you!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, wonderful Anne! Big hugs back. As it happens, West/South-West USA has been on my wishlist for some time. I would love to see the Spanish/Mexican influences, and it has just always sounded like such an interesting, vibrant area of the US to me. If I ever make it over there, I will definitely take you up on your offer. Thank you! :-)

[@carolstephens8722]

Im doing Peacock Garden as well.Mine is 796 DMC thread on 36ct dyed fabric called Blue Sky.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Nice! :-) It's such a gorgeous SAL, isn't it. Excited to start on part 2.

[@sharonwolfgang8832]

Mieke, I am so happy you had such a good time in Paris. It looks like it was fun. I will have to put it on my bucket list, especially Disney, I am a Disney fan. You have alot of nice pieces ready to stitch with some beautiful fabrics and flosses. My choices I would like to see you stitch would be #7 Celtic Snow, #13 Birds of Paradise and #17 Spring Fairy. I know it was not easy for you to make the decision to see a therapist, but I am glad you did. It sounds like you are on the right track and things look like they might be getting a little better for you. You sure do look a little healthier and happier. I wish you the best on your journey and know we are all here for you if you just need to vent or talk things out. We love you and care about you and only want the best for you. Take care and remember, always take care of yourself first.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Sharon! Oh yes, please put Paris and Disney on your bucket list, they are both fantastic experiences. Have just noted your votes, thank you! :-) Much love back xx

[@LindaStitches]

The great colors you chose for Spanish Bleu quite match the top you’re wearing. Gorgeous!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Oh my, you're right! I had not realized that at all. Too funny.

[@frisianstitcher8123]

Ik heb weer genoten van je flosstube! Wat een feest in Parijs en WoW wat een mooie projecten allemaal. Ik zou kiezen voor de patronen van Joke of de Ink Circles. Fijn dat het weer iets beter met je gaat! Hou je taai!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Dank je wel, lieverd! :-)

[@KnittenKittencrafts]

I think you should start #5 Spanish Bleu, #6 Celtic Snow, and #16 Peacock Butterflies! Wonderful video as always!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you & noted! :-)

[@Justjenniferky]

Love to hear your stories and life updates. LOVE all your stitching! I vote for 1, 5, 7 and 10. I couldn't do just 3 lol Good Luck and can't wait to hear what you choose! mini hugs Jennifer

[@DarlingBluebell]

Hahaha I fully understand choosing a 4th one. I have trouble enough choosing between the 17! LOL. Thanks for your votes xx

[@Purplepixie1969]

No 6 or no 9 please as I have those charts too. Not kited yet, but happy to SAL either or both. X

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thanks, and noted! :-)

[@jojocrossstitchcrazycrosss2378]

Hi it's lovley to see you again, your looking really well and am glad that things are getting better for you. I was listening to you talking about Paris while I was editing my flosstube video, was nice hearing you talking about seeing it for the first time reminded me of when I went. I think you should definitely start Indian peacock, I am stitching at the moment. Would be happy to do a stitch along with you if you decide to start it. Take care :) x

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you! :-) How awesome that you're working on Indian Peacock. A question if I may: are you stitching on the fabric that came with the kit, and if so do you like it? I hear that Dimensions fabric can be very stiff sometimes.

[@jojocrossstitchcrazycrosss2378]

@@DarlingBluebell I am working on the fabric that came with the kit, it's ok not the nicest of fabric. I know from your videos that you work on some amazing fabrics, I think you would enjoy the project more if you swapped out the fabric to something else :)

[@jenjohnson1136]

#6 Celtic Snow, #11 Rainbow Parfait, and #12 Underwater Garden are my favorites. (Can you tell that I am as much a rainbow stitcher as you are a blue one?) I'm glad to hear that your iron levels are normal! It sounds as though you have found a wonderful therapist. Looking forward to hearing about your travels.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Haha, perfect! Thank you Jen. Yes, I can see the rainbow theme in your choices. Happy colour vibes all the way, I like that! xx

[@yellowrosestitcher7995]

Oh My Word! All of your projects are fantastic. Both the ones you're working on and the kitted up ones. My three votes are for 1. Woodland Vines by Ink Circles 2. Double Dutch by Sampler Cove & 3. Lang Patroon. I can't wait to see which ones you start. My best wishes for you on your health journey. May the Lord bless you as you continue to heal.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much! Have noted down your votes. It's so exciting to wake up this morning and see the votes coming in haha. Thank you!

[@hannahaidastitcher8098]

Thank you for sharing your mental health story!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you & noted! :-)

[@marzipanstitcher8571]

Joy to watch you as always. No. 3 Birds and the bees as I loved the fabric. Sorry I didn't like the combo of sea blues in the Spanish bleu set. No 10 with vintage fabric. The peacock sampler is nice but no. 14. The peacock fantasy HAED is even more amazing. So 3, 10 and 14 please

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you, Marcia!

[@kb04011966]

I vote 5, 14, and 16...it was so hard to choose only 3! Best wishes to you and I look forward to your next video...

[@DarlingBluebell]

Haha I'm sorry it was hard to choose. So many goodies! But thank you for your vote xx

[@CreativelyYours]

Lieve Mieke, super om te horen dat je een stapje in de goede richting aan het maken bent! Het is confronterend om dingen en patronen over jezelf te leren, maar het helpt je echt een grote stap verder... ik ben in mijn burn-out tijd en tijdens therapie gaan journalen. Dit hielp mij heel erg met patronen herkennen in mijzelf, misschien ook iets voor jou? Maar misschien ook niet 😉 ik ben in ieder geval blij voor je dat het ietsje beter gaat! Voor jouw starts zou ik gaan voor 6, 15 en 17 of wat Jemima (the Rocking Stitcher) al zei gewoon allemaal! Tot gauw x

[@DarlingBluebell]

Dank je wel lieverd! Ik ben inderdaad her en der een document voor mezelf aan het bijhouden met gedachtes en ervaringen van deze maanden. Ik kom er niet elke dag aan toe, maar het is wel telkens een enorme bemoediging als ik teruglees van eerdere maanden en hoe ver ik nu al gekomen ben. Dikke knuffel!

[@jas2627]

Beautiful WIPs. How do you use the silk floss from the hank? I love the big bin of projects. All are beautiful...I think Woodland Vines, Celtic Snow and the HAED Peacock should be stitched in 2019. I took a screen shot of your list and will be adding some of those to my wish list. I haven’t been watching Flosstube and just watched your previous video. I’m so sorry to hear about the end of your relationship. You are incredibly brave and honest. I pray that many good things will come into your life and the pain continues to diminish and you continue on your wellness journey. I love watching you. It’s like catching up with a best friend.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much! :-) It's so lovely to read that. With the hank of silk, I simply put the scissors to it and cut the thing somewhere. It then falls apart in six strand skeins that you can simply pull your strands from. It is super easy :-)

[@jas2627]

Darling Bluebell thank you! I have a hank from Silks4U for Forests of Sumatra by Ink Circles but have been too intimidated by silk to use it. Lol.

[@melissaeggleston733]

It's so good to see that you're doing well ❤ start choices: woodland vines because I'm stitching it too (@melissa_e_in_stitches on insta), Spanish bleu because you lit up while talk about it, and your glendon place because if that isn't the definition of bright and happy, I don't know what is! You have lots of fun options! I traveled to Paris in high school, and while it wasn't my favorite city (I loved Madrid!) the atmosphere there is so unique and lovely! And yay for flosstube friendships! It makes my heart happy to hear those stories. Have fun stitching!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Melissa! Can you believe I've never been to Madrid? Arrrrgh I need to change that. Barcelona and Sevilla are my favourite Spanish cities so far, but I've heard great things about Madrid too. Need to put that higher on my wish list... ;-) Happy stitching! xx

[@rebeccaklash5826]

My choices for you would be 8, 10 and 12.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Noted! :-) Thank you.

[@jantinagroenewoud4990]

Bedankt voor het laten mee genieten van je heerlijke avondturen in parijs. Wat betreft de faforieten...Ik ben het helemaal eens met The rocking stitcher! start waar je zin in hebt. je hebt ze niet voor niets liggen! kom op geniet er van! Stuk voor stuk zijn ze prachtig. zo mooi zonnig en vrolijk. fantastisch. Woodland vines is mijn nr1. maar zoals ik al zei.. start waar je zin in hebt. wat je vrolijk maakt. Wat fijn dat het wat beter met je gaat. Je lijkt ook opgewekter. meer aan. (weet niet hoe ik het anders moet beschrijven).Toen je vertelde over het bang zijn voor het bang zijn kwam dat best binnen bij mij. in het verleden dit ook gevoeld maar nooit geweten dat dat het was. Dankjewel voor je openheid. Wat je zegt klopt zeker. Je bent sterket dan je denkt!

[@DarlingBluebell]

Dank je wel, Jantina! Ja je hebt ook inderdaad gelijk... Ik WIL ze allemaal starten. En dat gaat ook vast wel gebeuren. ;-) Ja hè, dat bang zijn voor bang zijn kwam bij mij ook best binnen zetten. Het is heel confronterend als iemand anders in woorden weet te gieten wat je zelf diep vanbinnen voelt. In mijn geval m'n psycholoog. Maar oh wat ben ik blij dat ik de stap gezet heb. Ik leer deze maanden zo veel nieuwe dingen over mezelf, en ik vind het heel bevrijdend dat míjn zelfbeeld niet betekent dat anderen ook zo naar me kijken. Ik hoop dat ik eindelijk eens ga leren dat het uberhaupt niet zo belangrijk is wat andere mensen van me vinden... Moeilijk moeilijk ;-) Maar stapje voor stapje komen we er wel.

[@halfstitchcrossstitch2456]

Thanks for letting us vote! I like them all, but vote for #4, Double Dutch, #15 Indian Peacock and #17, Spring Fairy.

[@quiltknit]

#9- Blue Village , #Glendon Place need the Summer Influence, #7 Shades of Blue : hard to choose. Congratulations on your therapy.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you! :-)

[@mirili3836]

OMG, I missed you! I'm also in 2019 Linen and Threads Mystery Sampler. I'm going to put a picture on the facebook group then you can see how it is going. The three projects that I've picked for you start are: 09 - Blue Village + 10 - Midsummer Garden(with vintage yellow fabric) + 13 - Birds of Happiness. I'm very glad that you are going well. I have no doubt that in the future you're going to see back days and will be proud of yourself. Big virtual hug for you! Bye! PS: I hope you may understand my English. Xoxo

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you! :-) Yes, I understand your English perfectly, no worries darling. Thanks for your votes and the lovely words xx

[@christelverbist7339]

Hoi Mieke, het was weer een ongelooflijke mooie video, met prachtige werken. Ook van je Parijs avontuur heb ik genoten. De werkjes die je van mij mag beginnen, zijn: the six pages, shades of blue en het laatste werkje. Shades of blue ben ik ook bezig, leuk om te doen. Momenteel ligt het een beetje stil. Wie weet die ik wel verder als ik jou ermee bezig zie. Lieve groetjes, hou je goed en tot je volgende video. Kijk er al naar uit. Christel

[@DarlingBluebell]

Dank je wel, Christel! Wat tof dat jij ook Shades of Blue aan het doen bent. Die ga ik zeker weten beginnen dit jaar, ook al zou-ie onderaan de lijst eindigen, haha. Ben heel benieuwd hoe de Dinky Dyes eruitzien als ze eindelijk aankomen...

[@christelverbist7339]

Darling Bluebell ik ben ze met de dmc kleuren bezig . Ook wel mooi.

[@cathybeukes5613]

Always love spending time with you 💞 sorry I didn't get the name of the pattern, but it was the one before Bochelt 2. Just after the peacock. Do you know if it is available in pdf download? Thank you so much

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you, Cathy! The name of the design is 'De Veluwe'. It's named after the national park that borders on my city. Joke doesn't offer her patterns as PDFs, I'm sorry to say. I have tried various times to talk her into it, but so far she's only selling paper copies. I will keep on trying though... ;-)

[@mclamb2011]

1, 2 & 4

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you & noted! :-)

[@MsTeacherterri]

This is very difficult. 1.1603. 2. Dimensions butterfly 3 Dimensions Spring fairy. I’m so glad your health is returning. I hope 2019 is amazing.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you! :-)

[@maricarmengarciafelipe4209]

Pero donde compras esas preciosidades

[@DarlingBluebell]

123stitch y CasaCenina :-) Suerte!

[@carolstephens8722]

Go you a therapist is wonderful for mental health. I have been seeing one on and off for 6 years.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you! Way to go for the both of us :-)

[@therockingstitcher]

Voor ik verder ga met kijken, mijn stem voor je starts in 2019. Ik was begonnen met patronen noteren die mijn voorkeur hadden, maar na 6 opgeschreven te hebben halverwege je lijst ben ik naar gestopt. Ken je de flosstuber Amy Welshgirlstitcher oid? Zij wilde vorig jaar gewoon alles starten wat ze thuis had omdat ze ze niet voor niks gekocht had en het zonde vond om het te laten liggen tot het niet meer trok. Dat is mijn motto aan het worden, dus mijn stem is; starts ze alle 19! Ze zijn er toch klaar voor, waarom niet? Zo, nu verder kijken.

[@DarlingBluebell]

Hahaha ohhh je lapt gewoon lekker de regels aan je laars. Wat goed! :-P Dank je wel lieve schat. Er zitten er een heel aantal tussen die ik sowieso wil starten dit jaar, ook al zouden ze onderaan de lijst eindigen, haha.

[@shariwitt1977]

Dear Mieke, thank you for sharing this beautiful video of life updates and beautiful stitching. I have some issues too, you give me hope. My choices are numbers 9, 12, and 13... Also enabling me for 9 and 12! Much love from a far away friend, Shari. sharistitcher on Instagram

[@DarlingBluebell]

Thank you so much, Shari! I'm sending you a big hug and lots of strength for handling your issues. Let's never lose hope! I have dark days where I don't see the light at the end of the tunnel, but it IS there. Let's hold on to that. Much love, my friend! And thank you for the votes.