Sam's Not Too Square

After a busy Thanksgiving week of cooking and cleaning for our guests, I was ready for a few hours of quiet escape in my sewing room. We spent Friday and Saturday outside in the sunshine and wonderfully warm weather--blowing & mowing leaves, pulling dead flowers and spreading pine mulch on flower beds. Work, but still fun and it was nice to be outdoors. Yesterday it rained so I retreated to my favorite space for a much needed sewing fix.

I've had several projects in progress for a while now, so I chose the one that had been waiting the longest and dove right into it. The wall hanging was already pieced, so I cut the backing and began to machine quilt. I love the sound my Singer makes as it smoothly runs along. It's music to my ears!

I designed Sam's Not Too Square for my mama, from scraps of the quilt, pillowcases and curtains I made her last year. She's going to hang it above her bed. Now that I'm done with that, today I'll finish binding the teal computer bag, or maybe something else from my unfinished project bin. Whatever I choose, it'll be another relaxing rainy sewing day.

Useful Remnant: I've started cutting some of my cotton scraps into four inch squares and three inch strips when I'm finished with the project. Stored in a box by color, I plan to use them for an easy charm quilt or sashing for other designs.

When life throws you scraps, make a quilt.  ~Author Unknown

Hem your blessings with thankfulness so they don't unravel.  ~Author Unknown

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Thankful

Mixing Things Up

It's been an unusual Monday, windy and quite warm for November. So, instead of writing this morning I decided to enjoy the outdoors before the predicted rain arrives tonight. It was nice to change my routine even to take care of a few errands and chores. I realized that being flexible and adapting to change made my day more interesting. I'll still get most everything done that's on my list, just in a different order than normal. And, if I miss something, so what? I can do it tomorrow.

I read somewhere that routines are good for you. I know they are comfortable to fall into and give you a sense of stability. But I wonder if it could be important to consciously stimulate your brain with change now and then. It mixes things up, causes you to stop and think, adjust your schedule, and consider options. 

Life's all about change. It's inevitable. Maybe if you challenge your brain with new ideas, it might keep you from being so afraid of change as you grow older. I think I'll try mixing things up a little more often and see how that works out.  It's sure to be more fun!

“Life is change. Growth is optional. Choose wisely.” - William Somerset Maugham

“The less routine the more life.” – Amos Bronson Alcott

^^^^^^^^^

Closing Down The Campground

Today we got home from our last camping trip of the year, nine wonderful fall days at Cordell Hull Lake. Although Defeated Creek Campground was full over the weekend, we were one of the fifteen or so who stayed over to pull out right before they closed the gates. We started our season there back in April, so it was fitting that we'd end it there as well. At least this time we weren't running for cover during a tornado warning.

What a fabulous first year in our Sabre 5th wheel. We've had a good balance of camping and being at home.  I'm thankful for safe trips, mostly great weather, and the perfect traveling partner. I appreciate Sam, my sweet mama, for house sitting while we're away. She considers it a relaxing retreat, and spoils our Rowdy dog with long walks and snacks.

We're busy planning next year's itinerary, and already made reservations for Defeated. I think I'll search for campgrounds near my favorite fabric stores. Next spring's a long time to wait, though. Our traveling feet may get itchy enough this winter to take off for the warmer climates of the Gulf. 

And, the best part is, we can if we wanna! 

Oh my, how I love retirement!

Some national parks have long waiting lists for camping reservations.  When you have to wait a year to sleep next to a tree, something is wrong.  ~ George Carlin