Stars Seen, Progress Slowed

We were away for our annual trip to the National Sports Collector's Convention a few weeks ago.  Since I had two recent finishes I decided that something new should be kitted up and brought with me.  I had lots to choose from, and the winner was Mandala Panda. 

I started it just before we left.

I got as far as his nose.  Progress was made while MJ and Z were at the convention.  By the time the week was out and it was time to head home you could really see the beautiful colors!

It was wonderful to have some quiet stitching time.  Then we got home and it was back to reality.  Work, laundry, you all know how that goes.  That was when progress slowed.

For several weeks I've had pain in my hand.  I kept saying it would get better.   I'm getting older, and it's just the aches and pains that go with it.   I finally broke down and went to the doctor.  The diagnosis?

Something called calcific tendonitis, which is when a calcification forms on the tendon.  It's painful, but there isn't much we can do for it aside from a round of low dose steroids, and keeping it immobilized for a while.  No work for one week, and keep my stitching to a minimum.  Ugh!!  Home for a week and no stitching?  What am I supposed to do with myself?

Since holding the hoop was hard at first I tried my scroll frame.

I tried it, but had a hard time with it.  So after I went to the orthopedist and they gave me the new brace I went back to my trusty hoop.

And here we are as of this evening.  Look at those bright, vibrant colors!  I think this project is a ray of sunshine!!