While I have not made any New Years Resolutions, the beginning of the new year is a good time to take stock, looking back, reflecting on where I am right now, and looking ahead to the coming year. I ask myself questions like 'what is right about my life? what is missing? what would I like to see happen in the new year? what are my hopes and aims for the coming year? what changes do I need to make? In my quilting life, I plan to finish a few more pieces for my exhibition which takes place this summer. I'd like to read more books, learn more techniques, push myself in different directions creatively, and follow my inspirations. I want to create a better workspace in my home. The one big step I am taking this year is that I have ordered a sewing machine after much research. This is a giant step for me since I have always done all of my work by hand. I am not fond of machines and am a little afraid that the convenience of having a machine will cause me to abandon hand work (but I don't really think that is possible for me). I will continue at least until my exhibition pieces are ready, to work entirely by hand. I am ordering an entry level machine - computerized -but it is all new to me - a big learning curve. I am thinking about the machine as an enhancement of my present style not a total change in direction. Oh and I almost forgot - I am working on a book about my quilts.
I am feeling restless lately - looking for something new. My life is pretty full but I realize I have been doing that same things, belonging to the same groups, even singing in the same choir, for several years. I won't throw the baby out with the bathwater but I need to stretch myself. This is my first full year of retirement and I want to make the most of it. I have the urge to travel to places I have never been before (as long as it is not too expensive - I haven't won the lottery yet). I am looking into artsy vacations -fibre arts retreats, classes or workshops. I would like to find ways to spend time in other areas and soak in the culture (even within my own country). A friend and I may plan a camping trip in Quebec this summer. I also want to get out into the woods more. I am getting itchy feet!!
My pets received gifts this holiday season as well. As I was wrapping gifts on Christmas eve I placed Drusilla's new cat bed on the floor. Minutes later I found her curled up in it - tags still on it.
Another holiday story - my son gave me a new bird feeder and suet container. There were three different suet blocks that came with it. I chose the one with the hairy woodpecker on the front, thinking as I did so that it probably made no difference. They seemed to have some similar ingredients. So I hung the feeder and the suet container and next morning when I looked out my window this is what I saw.
This lovely fellow has been here every day since. Build it and they will come! How do they know?
Love your visitor at the feeder. They are so striking to watch. Glad you had a great Christmas, and happy new year.
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