Week 2 - solstice challenge

 When I started this page, there was no snow on the ground. Now we have a blizzard and I can't see the neighbors house!

100 day prep

  The 100 day project begins at the end of January.  I've been jotting down ideas, trying to keep my challenge project easy.  The idea I keep going back to is collage hexis.  The challenge blocks will be done with fabric, but for now a little experimenting with paper will help with planning. It's all part of the design process . 

Hope

 My plan is to stitch a little each morning for the 100 day project. With a busy day planned, stitching "hope" on the first page of the book was my simple goal.  A little each day adds up quickly...

Solstice

 The 100 Day Project began yesterday as the Solstice to Equinox project. Not quite 100 days, but still a fair length of time to commit to weekly work. I have started with a photo of the sun rising at 7:24. It was grand!

Christmas tree

 I've had decorate the Christmas tree on my list of things to do for over a week. Not so fun when the kids aren't here to help. I miss the excitement of looking in the ornament box after a year of being stored with them.  I finally broke down and decorated today.  

There are some very old and special ornaments that I pulled out and created my own joy. I think this year when I put them away I need to include the story about a few.  The slices of corn cob wreaths that Jes and I made 25 years ago, the 2 birds in a basket that my mom gave me even longer ago than that, the gnomes that Arrianne and I painted years ago...  We remember the past each Christmas, then look to the future.  

This year we are all ready to put 2020 behind, but I think each of us has discovered (or re-discovered) some important qualities in our characters. 

• I realized early on that I really don't mind being isolated as long as I can talk to friends and family either by text or phone.  
• I'm not that social of a person.
• Afternoon naps are amazing
• I am a list maker, and am pleasantly pleased with the number of things I crossed off this year
• Baking makes me happy.  Actually, working in the kitchen makes me happy when I can take time and enjoy the process
• My mom is my best friend
• I am lucky and thankful to be alive and well 

Now, let me share some Christmas tree pics!

Songs of Faith - Complete!

 This has certainly been my most fav Bible study quilt.  It allowed me much artistic freedom.  After I finish a few more projects on my table, I think I will put together a mixed media songbook about each of the songs represented on this quilt... 

Carve December day 13

 I have kept up with days 1 to 12... honestly...  I just can't seem to find time to sit down to the computer. This week looks fairly empty on my calendar and I have big goals for the week.  With studio cleaning on the top of the list, I am planning a few months of art days ahead! 

I'm not sure how many years I've participated in Carve December.  This year I added my own twist and have stitching included on my stamped pieces.  A final fabric collage will complete the month. Today I added an element to the front of the house:

Gingerbread houses

 Mom wanted to do a craft with the 2 neighbor boys before Christmas.  I saw gingerbread house kits at the store and suggested we have fun!  A 3 year old and a 6 year old can certainly make a mess. It was a good time and I'm sure their mother appreciated the peace and quiet for an hour.  And not having a mess to clean up!

Thanksgiving hike

 I spent my Thanksgiving holiday with my son in southern Illinois.  The weather forced us outdoors for hikes each day at the lake.  There were no people at the lake on Thanksgiving! Imagine having the whole state park to yourself.  Yes it was wonderful.