I’ve been feeling quiet inside as we move into the holiday season. Not sad or depressed. On the contrary, I feel quite thankful and happy. But I also feel a sense of quiet. Maybe this is my mind’s way of fighting off the constant barrage of noise . . . from the television, the radio, the computer and the phone. So much information. So much news. So much to do. So much to make!
I’ve talked to other quilters who, like me, feel that being a quilter today is a bit like being a squirrel. We are constantly zipping about, frantically chasing that shiny new nut . . . the newest fabric, pattern, kit, technique, etc. Everything we see on social media or in the quilt shops makes us want to buy and make. It’s exhausting. It can make us feel downright overwhelmed!
I hope my blog never makes you feel that way. I hope my enthusiasm for my shared projects inspires you in a happy, productive way. Let’s make a deal with ourselves and each other . . . we don’t have to keep up with anyone else. We will sew, decorate and make on our own schedules, within our own budgets, and for the joy of the creative process or gift giving that results.
So, after all that rambling, I want to share with you my Christmas decorating from this past weekend. It is very light. And it feels good . . . and quiet.
The morning after Thanksgiving, I laid out my Star Crossed Pines quilt and a new pillow I ordered from a fellow Etsy shop maker: Porter Lane Home. Yep, I tossed them on the couch, took a couple of pictures and that was it. That was enough. Whew!
Later in the evening, I talked (coerced) my mom and Haley into helping me set up the Christmas tree and a few greens. We also hung three quilts. My Welcome Home Wreath and another single quilt block found homes in the dining room, while my Christmas version of Fat Quarter Flourish now hangs in my kitchen. On Saturday when the sun was shining I took a few more pictures to share with you. We still don’t have the ornaments on the tree, but that is oddly okay with me this year. I’m enjoying this quiet tree.
During the fall this black wire basket was filled with an autumn garland and fabric pumpkin. We made a quick switcheroo with some winter greens, a cute little sign and a \”Jolly\” mug rug that I made last year. And if you notice in the background, my red and green version of Shoofly Crossing is hanging on a stair railing. We can grab it to use as a lap quilt while watching TV, or hang it there for decoration. Simple is good!
And finally, on Sunday evening when I was home alone, I set out our little Nativity which was a gift from my parents many years ago. I didn’t even put out the wooden manger . . . just the still figures, quiet reminders of what this season means to me.
We have a beautiful lighted Christmas village, several more holiday mini quilts, bunches of greenery and pretty figurines and decor that are staying packed away this year. I’m feeling really good about this . . . much less “squirrelly.”
Who knows, next year I may go all the way and decorate every inch of this place for the holidays. Either way, my family loves me, and that’s all that really matters.
Whether you\’re seeking a quiet season or one filled with joyful noise, I’m wishing you all a wonderful journey into the holidays!
~Taunja