Christmas ABC Part 5 - I*J* - Free Cross Stitch Chart!

Edited to add: As of Twelfth Night (6 January 2010) this chart is no longer available as a freebie. It may return at some point as a chart for sale to raise money for the MS Trust

 

Ivy has long been an important decoration at this season as it is an evergreen climbing plant. I see Wikipedia classes it as a  invasive weed in North America but over here it is common in woodland (and is usually seen as a signifier of old woodland), gardens and as a houseplant. I like ivy for its tenaciousness, and for the fact it flowers in the autumn, where it is an important source of food for bees.

Of course, Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. Although I'm an atheist of long standing, and my personal celebration of Christmas is cultural and secular, I still think that some of the lessons and examples Jesus gave are worth celebrating. For those of faith, of course, he is the 'reason for the season'. And so, he's in this alphabet.

If you would like copies of the charts, please comment below with your email address and I'll get them sent out to you. If you do stitch either of these designs, I'd love to see a picture - and there will be a prize for each one I show on my blog!

Edited to add: If you feel so inclined, a donation to the MS Trust for this chart would be appreciated. Pennies will do - and you can make payment via the link in my sidebar or by clicking here.

 

This pattern is offered for personal, non-commercial use only. Items made from this pattern may be sold on a small scale basis such as on Etsy or at craft sales. Sales for charity are positively encouraged! This pattern and the text and photos contained within, may not be copied or reproduced for any purpose other than personal use. Please direct people to this blog rather than forwarding the pattern, thank you! Copyright 2009 N M Wray