Every year we anticipate January as a time of new beginnings. We make resolutions, plans, and look forward to a new routine. It seems to me that the New Year actually happens twice. In January of course, but also in September. Back to school time in our house brings the same kind of resolutions and plans as the New Year. Â We look forward to the new routine that school brings, as well as the fun of friends and extra-curricular activities.
This year my youngest will be starting 6th grade and my oldest is a freshman in high school. High school already! I am suddenly faced with the reality that I only have four more years to be with Jack, before he goes off to college and our relationship changes with time. In this month’s Thimbleful of Knowledge there is a quote from Mary Brooks Picken that says “We women hurry all too rapidly through the days, forgetting how big they are and how many times we could touch hands with real happiness if we would but appreciate the opportunity.† Once again Mary seems to get straight to the heart of the matter. I need to take advantage of each day with my kids. I want to make sure that I am able to fill Jack with encouragement, confidence and happiness before he leaves the nest. Here is a fun photo taken last night at his football dinner. I can’t believe how tall he has gotten!
 Cross-stitch and Sampler Sayings
As an adult, I miss being able to focus education in a school setting. I think however, that is why I enjoy sewing. There is always a continuing education with a craft like this. I am forever learning new techniques, and inspiration. This month’s Department of Sewing discusses cross-stitch. I love needlework, and cross-stitch is especially versatile. You can use it to make classic samplers of course, but also embellish garments and household linens.
I find myself drawn to cross-stitch designs that feature a saying or quote. The charm of the design is one reason, but also, I find that many of the old-fashioned sayings still resonate today. These days cross-stitch is still a popular craft, and there is a resurgence of interest in it. Look at the gallery below to see some examples of modern cross-stitch.
