Life's Rhythms

This has been an eventful year with lots of highs and lows. I've learned lessons, managed challenges, and tried to stay flexible.

It seems to me that the best way to handle life is to roll with its rhythms. Things happen that aren't in our plans. Sometimes the changes are nice surprises; other times they aren't. No matter which way, you have the choice to resist or adjust, panic or stay calm. How you respond is up to you.

Here are three tips that might help:

Don't ask questions you don't want the answer to. Being informed is helpful only up to a point. If you're not going to do anything with the information, why ask for it?

You can't fix or figure out crazy. Not going to happen. It's a waste of your time, energy, and brain cells to even try.

Let it be. Sometimes it's better to step back and wait. Life might make the right decision for you. Things don't always need to be micro-managed. They work out on their own without your input.

“You can't plan life. Because no matter how perfect your plan is, life has a way to rearrange it.” - Mina Deanna

I Am Grateful

I am grateful to be where I am needed.

Motivated To Sew

I've been a busy little bee in the sewing room the last couple of weeks. Recently I helped my mama paint her bedroom a pretty sky blue. We switched out her old dresser and desk for a 1920's antique dresser and wardrobe, changed her bedspread and curtains, and tossed out a lot of clutter. I made her a wall hanging and pillow covers that will match the new blue and green color scheme.  She loves her new room, it's now a bright, comforting place to be.

Naturally, once I got started more ideas popped into my head and I kept on sewing. My newest design is the Sammie bag, a cute tote which fits a 10” tablet, or it can be used as a purse. 

I'm working on another one later today, but first I have to clean my house. It didn't get much attention last week between sewing, mowing, and going places. 

"Never underestimate the power of a woman with a sewing machine or a paintbrush."  --anonymous 

Using The Good Stuff Now

A few weeks ago, I wrote about unfinished quilt blocks made by Granny Rose. At first, I put them away, but I decided they need to be displayed so we can enjoy some of them. The perfect solution occurred to me last week, so I got busy sewing. The result: New throw pillows for our living room! 
 
The blocks were different sizes and colors, so I used charcoal and cream ticking fabric as borders to blend them all together. I sewed a new small block with pieces of her flour sack material and solid black. They look fabulous, and we get to see her beautiful work every day. 

A lot of people put back things and never get to use them. I decided several years ago to use my favorite items often instead of saving them only for special occasions. As far as I am concerned, every day is special. I wear nice clothes, jewelry, and good perfume whenever I want. The towels hanging in our bathrooms aren't just to look at, they are to be used.  

What's the point of having nice things if you can't enjoy them? 

Use the good stuff now.

Seeking Solitude

Sometimes I need to be alone. Just me and an uncluttered mind. No phone, no laptop, no email, no people. No radio or television. No housework or undone projects hanging over my head. No appointments, grocery shopping, or errands waiting to be done. No responsibility other than to myself and definitely no pressure from the expectations of others.

I'm normally an extrovert, but when life gets stressful I crave the quietness and peace that comes from solitude. It can be difficult to turn off my brain because I'm always making lists in my head or creating new ideas. Being alone helps me focus and think more clearly.

You'd think that retirement would give me lots of solitude. It's true that I should have more control of my time, but it seems like I'm doing more than ever. Camping, hobbies, family, and home improvements come with their own set of distractions and to do lists.

I need to work on setting boundaries and priorities. After all, I shouldn't feel guilty for needing time for myself. It's the best way to recharge my batteries and energize my spirit. I'd like a week at the beach, but I'll settle for a day at home with no interruptions. 

“True silence is the rest of the mind, and is to the spirit what sleep is to the body - nourishment and refreshment.” William Penn

“How can you hear your soul if everyone is talking?” – Mary Doria Russell