Rachael, I love your trees! I made a gnome block and a few tree blocks. I like free form pieceing also, I look at the pattern get an idea and then go create my own magical forest.
I do have an Embroidery machine, but dang if I will take the time to learn it! I can do simple stuff, but when I had the lessons at Joann's my "teacher" was too busy with her boyfriend on the phone. So I figured I could teach myself! Not yet at least! My Machine is a Viking Husqvarna, Limited Edition. It sews great but I just can't quite get the hang of the embroidery part. I keep saying I am going to take lessons, but now that gas is $4.50 and the closest Dealership is in Riverside... Not too likely right now.
OK Back to my gnomes and 'shrooms' Will post pictures later today