Gratitude and Stitching

" At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us. " - Albert Schweitzer.

Well friends, I have been in a bit of a slump of late. Seeming to muddle through my days and nights. A general funk, I guess, because when I take an accounting I realize I have done quite a lot in spite of my malaise. I shall blame this all on taxes!

I have neglected to journalize my Gratitude. It's not that I've not spent considerable time thinking on the subject. I have so much to be grateful for. This has been an extremely lucky year for me. Matter-of-fact, I should rush out and buy a lotto ticket.

To date, I have won three giveaways this year. Becky's Be Of Good Cheer tin. Cheryl's Oak Basket. And today, Deb's Springtime Contest. I love my stitchy friends! Your teach me, encourage me, share openly, make me laugh, and occasionally, make me cry. You are my connection to the world from this "Oregon Outback".

In spite of my physical disabilities I am getting healthier. I am better today than I've been in twenty years! I am grateful for the help of my class leaders, support group, on-line group and especially my doctors. This past year has been an amazing journey!

Well... for today, that's enough! Lets get on to my stitching update. I'm kind of stuck on LHN's 'The Library'. The brick work was extremely boring as are the book backs. Only one to go. Whew! I really want ot finish this piece. I keep chanting "this will not become a UFO". So many other projects are calling to me.

Weekly Gratitude

I am so thankful for the simple things in my life; a hug, a smile, a kiss, a kind word, laughter, the snuggle of a dog nose. And for all the things I take for granted; being able to walk, talk, hear, see, my health (which isn't the greatest yet, so much better than many). The BIG things I don't give a second thought to; a comfy home, a safe vehicle, a loving and supportive husband, an income that allows us to live a moderate yet comfortable life.

FRIENDSHIP
Just returned from a week-end with some of the most wonderful women. They truly delight me. Our stitching group is varied in so many ways beyond the obvious (ages, abilities) yet we come together to share our love of needle and thread. We laugh, share, encourage, learn, teach, eat, enable, shop. They are generous beyond anything I've ever experienced. I've only been included in this sisterhood for one year now yet I feel a kinship here beyond acquaintances I have known for years. I've learned more about stitching from these ladies than in my entire past years of stitching. There is no judging here. They make me want to reach into myself for hidden strengths and talents and try new ventures. Beyond any other people in my life, these women are my friends. I look forward excitedly for our get-togethers. Whatever took me so long to find these kinds of friends? I'm just grateful to be counted among them now! (Oh yeah, they enable me to keep my wallet empty and my credit card full!!! ;)

Gratitude

One of my goals/desires/resolutions for 2010 was to practice gratitude. Late as it is, I've been inspired by CameoRose's blog. She has journaled so many wonderful thoughts and photos. Today I decided to join the Weekly Gratitude community. Karen & Lori, two very creative and inspiring ladies, have a blog set up to help us get started and share the gratitude.

GRATITUDE
As this is my first entry and I haven't spent much time today dwelling on any particular topic, I'll leave you with a few photos and come back later with my thoughts.

James: my love, my husband, my friend, He is my present.

Erica: my granddaughter, my sunshine, She is my future.

Pamela: my BFF, we've known each other since before we started kindergarten. I'd give her my life if I could. She is my history.

Kelly: my sweet companion. Ever loving, never judging, total unconditional love.