HELLO!
WELCOME BACK to sew and sow life.
On December 21st we had a wild storm up here, complete with snow and 57 mph winds. Our power, internet and phone were knocked out. Our generator kicked in and brought power back right away. Green Mountain Power restored our line later that day. But we were without phone or internet for 13 days before they were restored. THIRTEEN DAYS without internet and phone at home.
We had to drive down to town and camp out at the library or coffee shop to catch up on all things “worldly”.
Let me tell you, it was both a blessing and a curse to be cut off from 24/7 access to everything. It surely was an opportunity to take a deep dive into how I use the internet. And how I may want to adjust things a bit now that I am wiser.
As I approach 2026 I’m excited about the “fresh start” a new year inspires. (I usually do a big check in with myself on my birthday rather at the new year.) I will turn 70 this year and it feels significant, so I’m doing some readjusting now. :-)
And I refuse to let the bozos get me down. (Especially after this morning’s news coming out of Venezuela, where Batman spent some of his years growing up.)
So, I’ve gathered some resources to help me navigate the year ahead. Perhaps some of them will be helpful to you, too.
Yesterday I downloaded and printed out the January Workbook for Lori Robert’s The Analog Life Project. You can read about the project here, and follow the links to subscribe. (I had such fun with Lori’s prompt about libraries. It got me to writing about all the libraries I have loved.)
In an effort to recommit to a healthier life, I ordered this basic guide from the Harvard Medical School. It’s nice to have a place where common sense advice is gathered all in one spot.
Insight Timer continues to help me meditate.*
I’ve been working on my “top ten” remembrances from 2025, an effort to document accomplishments/experiences/ learnings. Looking back can help me look forward.
I’ve also started a list of 2026 projects. There’s already a few quilts on the list, including another collaboration with daughters Lindsey and Gretta. There’s a library capital campaign in the works and a basement rehab to undertake here at our bit of earth.
I’m on the fence about doing another “100 day stitch book” with Ann Wood.
I’m participating in “Dry January”. Read about it here.
*Yet another juxtaposition that this resource is online, even while I concentrate on enhancing my analog life.
Please share any ideas/resources that you may be using to help you step into 2026 (below, in the comments). I’m curious!
Looking forward to easing into January with you, dearest readers.
XO