Hello quilting friends! We are still in unpacking / organizing mode at the Kelvington house, but it is starting to feel like home. It’s amazing how finding spots for your favorite things (a pretty lamp, a favorite picture, or a much loved quilt), can make a house feel familiar and comfortable, when just days earlier it felt foreign.
I’ll admit that during the first week in our new place, I struggled a bit. My mind kept drifting back to our last house. I found myself trying to replicate groupings of furniture, pictures and decorative items exactly as I had them in the old house, mostly for a sense of comfort. But it didn’t work and just left me feeling lonesome. I finally told myself to loosen up, count my blessings, and let things land where they may. When I placed this Christmas quilt from last year on our leather couch along with my Jolly and Juniper pillows, I felt a rush of happiness (and gratitude) and snapped a picture to share with you.
I also wanted to share an advent devotional that I am using: Emmanuel by Ruth Chou Simons. I highly recommend it if you, like me, need something that will help you quiet your heart during the Christmas season. Ruth talks a lot about being aware of the posture of our hearts, during Christmas and always, so that we are expectant and thankful. I’m using some lovely blank journals from Planner Perfect for reflections and prayers.
That’s all I have to share for today. I have been playing around with some new pattern design ideas, including two for next Christmas. They are in the early stages, but I think they will be fun projects!
I hope you all are well and finding time to get carried away quilting. I haven’t said that in a long time, and I think it was overdue!
~Taunja
Love your planner! Your cozy quilt and pillows are just adorable. They would make anyone happy. I know it takes time to settle into a new place and it’s so important to put those home crafted things out so that you feel you have brought yourself along, if that makes sense! Thanks so much for the advent book suggestion. It looks lovely!
Thank you so much for your caring words. It always amazes me (although it shouldn’t) when people you have never met can lift your spirits with kind words and thoughts. And I like your turn of phrase . . . so that I feel I have brought myself long. That is exactly it!! Thanks again!
Thank you for today’s post! I will definitely be ordering the devotional. My husband suffers from dementia, and I’ve been looking for something to get me thru the holidays. Thanks again!
Oh Mary! I’m so sorry to hear that. My dad suffered from dementia also. I hope the book arrives quickly and brings you comfort. I know how tough it is on a family, but most especially on the spouse. I’ll keep you on my heart. Take care of yourself also! With love ~Taunja
So glad you are getting comfortable in your new house! You will gradually create the feel you are craving. 🏠
You are always an encouragement! Thank you Sylvia!
I miss hearing from you, seeing your projects and always love your decorating. Will you be sending these out now that you have had some time to get settled in your new home? i HOPE so. Blessings to you in the new year. Sandy
Sandy, what a kind message to read this morning! Thank you for your thoughtful comments. I hope to get back to some more regular blogging for 2023! Happy New Year to you!