I've finally finished this one. I started during Easter thinking it would be a short project (one to do in between my more difficult ones). It's the first project I've railroaded every stitch. I think that is what took me longer. The floss didn't knot as much, but there was still some knots (maybe I just try and stitch way too fast).
I think the overall effect of the railroading is evident - it looks a lot neater and more defined. The Chinese characters translate as the positive emotions of Bliss, Well-Being, Serenity, Tranquility, Spirituality, Calmness, Harmony, Leisure, Peice and Health and Happiness.
The backstitching on the Buddha's robe was particularly difficult, but I think it turned out just fine. I was lulled into a false sense of security by all the individual elements. They made it look a lot easier than it was. Hopefully I'll finish my mum's Enchanter now.