I just received some wonderful news! It was an engagement and wedding announcement. My eldest niece is getting married. I am so happy for her and her future husband. They are a wonderful couple and I wish them every happiness.
But wait! There’s more that I can do and I have decided that I am going to include you in this little adventure that I have in mind. I am going to cross stitch a Ukrainian Wedding Rushnyk for them.
A Rushnyk is a Ukrainian embroidered towel which symbolizes hope that the newlywed couple will never face poverty or hard times. I think there is a saying “may the couple never stand on a bare dirt floor”.
During the wedding ceremony in church, the rushnyk is spread on the floor in front of the altar. Traditionally it was said that whoever stepped on the cloth first would be the head of the family. However now a days, most grooms hesitate just a second and let their bride step on it first.
The rushnyk is also used to bind the hands of the bride and groom during the ceremony to signify their union. The priest leads the couple around the altar three times. This procession symbolizes that marriage is a never-ending journey led by Christ. These are the first steps that the couple will take as husband and wife.
So I have decided that I will take my first steps too and cross stitch a rushnyk for them.
No, I have never taken on a project like this before. When growing up at home, I did not learn how to cross stitch. However, I was taught how to embroider by my mom. Take a look at these tea towels and pillow cases.
Not bad for a little girl, right?
I am hoping that I will get your blessings and encouragement as I take on this project. I am teaching myself how to cross stitch right now and would like to share this journey with you.
I have everything I need and I have just started! Here are my first stitches. I’ll update you in a little while.
Wish me luck….this adventure of mine cannot become a never-ending journey for me! I have eight months until the wedding. But just in case I do not get it finished in time, please…do not tell my niece and her fiance that I am doing this for them.
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