Monday, February 24, 2014

Pure Joy At Daytona

Photo from Dale Jr. Facebook page
Dale Earnhardt Jr. has finally done something in racing that his famous dad didn't accomplish.  Last night, after a six hour rain delay, Junior won the Daytona 500 for a second time.  He led the most laps and held off a charge from a pack of hungry drivers.  There was pure joy radiating from him after he crossed the finish line.  The excitement continued as he celebrated with his crew and hugged everyone in sight. I have never seen him so thrilled and happy after a race.  

Of course, I was dancing around the living room and crying, and doing my own celebration, like I used to when Dale Sr. was alive.  I've missed that passion and excitement while watching races.  I hope Junior will take this motivation on to Phoenix, then continue his winning ways all season.  Maybe he'll even win the Chase trophy.  He deserves that joy!


“Joy is what happens to us when we allow ourselves to recognize how good things really are.”  ― Marianne Williamson


Monday, February 17, 2014

Releasing Tension

Lydia's Cross
I've been a busy woman lately. Chores, errands, appointments and projects have taken up most of my time. Nevertheless, I was able to carve out some time for sewing, even if only thirty minutes a day. Doing something I love helps me release tension and stress.

One cold day I measured and calculated the dimensions to one of my favorite Granny Rose antique quilt blocks. I was never able to find the exact pattern anywhere, so I've recreated it.  I believe it's her own design variation of Grandmother's Cross and Nine Patch Star. I've named it Lydia's Cross, and I'm using mixed color scraps like she did. The final quilt will be revealed later.

My new quilted wallet is created from remnants. It has eight slots for cards and two pockets for cash and my checkbook. The snap front keeps everything tucked safely inside.

Another afternoon, I created something useful from an old tee and a sweatshirt. I cut off the bands and zig-zagged the raw edges. Then I made little snips in a semi-circular pattern along the neckline, weaving in a continuous one inch strip from the tee. I added a border to the bottom with the remaining tee fabric. The result is a cute top to wear while hanging out at home on cold winter days.


Useful Notion: Every hour spent doing something you love results in at least four hours of peacefulness.


Monday, February 10, 2014

All You Need Is Love

Since it's nearly Valentine's Day, and in honor of the Beatles, I give you a few Beatles love songs.  My best friend Pam and I swooned over Paul and John in 1964.  I still have the scratched 45's that we played on my little portable record player.  Their love songs are the best!


Words of Love
PS I Love You
You've Got To Hide Your Love Away
And I Love Her
It's Only Love
All My Lovin
Can't Buy Me Love
She Loves You
All You Need Is Love


Love, hugs and kisses to my sweetheart Jerold.  We've celebrated 44 Valentine's Days together since we met.

Have a romantic and happy Valentine's Day!

"And in the end, the love you take
is equal to the love you make."  
John Lennon & Paul McCartney





Monday, February 3, 2014

Release

re·lease

: to set free

: to stop holding on

: to allow to leave confinement 
 
: to relieve from something that burdens or oppresses


What a powerful word! How liberating it is to let go of thoughts or things that are no longer needed. Doing so opens the mind to consider new ideas. It is difficult to move forward when clutter is holding you down like an anchor. 
 
Last week I released old carpet to be recycled, and sent more unused items along for others to enjoy. It's amazing what you find when you have to move everything out of two bedrooms and closets. It's easy to overlook everyday surroundings. The rooms look fresh with new carpet; simple décor will make them easier to keep neat. 
 
I'm still simplifying, and now I'm letting go of old habits, clutter, and anything that holds me back.


Useful Notion: Have less, do more, be more. 

 

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