Giving

I always really love the whole process of finding or making something special for someone else, and then being able to share it with them. There is something about choosing what to make, or buy that kind of describes or reflects the individual in some way, I find the whole process well.. just lovely. Then comes the wrapping and the best part giving to the individual and seeing the delight on their face. I love that part just as I do when you are able to pass some spare money to someone ese tat might be in need, or have a bill due, or need to get some food for the table. Its kind of like being able to give back in some way for the blessing we have received. What about you? Is gift giving a blessing in return for you too?

To Feel Free

What is it that helps you to feel free?

I still distinctly remember the moment when I walked out of the hospital after giving birth to our first born son Tom. I had ended up having a caesarian after a day and a half of labour, so after 5 long days in hospital I was ready to get out of there. I had Tom bundled up in his little sleeping bag I had made and had him cuddled in it in my arms, and as I walked out of those front doors the wind hit my face and I felt 'Free'. There was a crisp-ness in the air, and I couldn't get over how alive I felt.

This photo I took of Jay 3, yesterday and I think it captures that feeling. He looks so alive and free. His character oozes energy, fun, excitement and laughter, and I think running around and beng 'such a boy' is really so 'him'.

For me my sewing is a bit like this. I don't feel trapped or contained, rather the opposite. I feel as though nothing can stop the ideas or the ways of doing whatever, only my imagination. Which does seem to be on fire a lot of the time.

When is the last time you to felt free and alive? What were you doing?

To Complete a Task

Do you have that feeling of satisfaction at the end of a task or project?

I have just completed a quilt I was making for a good friends daughter and at the moment that feeling rose for me. I began the quilt the night before I gave birth to Eli (he was born at 4:10am), and it has taken me a while to get back into it, but now Ahhh.. I feel like saying 'it is finished'- such famous words from the old book. When you are half way through, and unpicking it all to basically start again (a better way of doing it) it seemed like a bit of a road block but now that it is finished and looks better than it would have the other way, i am glad I took the time..relief and appreciation arises I think.

Today I have had 5 little people under 6 running around enjoying each others company in my home, and I can't help but have that same feeling arise for me now. All morning they created new and exciting games, pottered around, put everything in one place, then changed it all around and found a better way. Now as 5 has returned to 3, I sit back and think Ahh..life is good. Their little voices, the pitter patter, the swinging of a rattle, all makes me smile.

What has made you smile today?