You can't always get what you want

Amazing realization. I don't get what I need, especially the times when it feels missing in other parts of life:
People who think I'm capable and want my help.
People who think I'm creative and like my schidt.
People who think I'm funny and get my sense of humor.
People who won't let me take things too seriously.
People willing to go all woo-woo with me.

Blazing Star and BowTie

Lone Star quilt block

Grandma's Bow Tie pattern

I am grateful for...

Reasonably solid mental health.
My cynic husband who keeps me grounded and makes me feel smart and loved.
A loving family.
Loving friends.

Heirlooms and lessons

A couple weeks back, I spent a rugged day struggling with a lone star quilt block. Not fun.

Today, I dug out bow tie quilt block templates from my Grandmother that I've long wanted to use. I couldn't figure out how they went together before now.

Of course, a trick from the monster lone star block was the key!

I am grateful for difficult lessons, and for a connection to the past.

Grandma died before I knew her. The quilt she made from this pattern -- a favorite from my childhood -- is threadbare or maybe gone.

It feels like a zen moment -- the pieces falling in place (literally), new skills and a rainy afternoon to play with fabric.

I am grateful for...

Mucinex!

"Freckles" by Gene Stratton-Porter

"Nature can be trusted to work her own miracle in the heart of any man whose daily task keeps him alone among her sights, sounds, and silences."

Grateful for family

What a wonderful weekend with family. It's so very good to have my born-into family and my married-into family, not to mention the extended honorary family, all of whom are so very dear. I am fortunate.