I try, as often as I can, to remember the first people who walked this land. Those who foraged and hunted and sheltered on this land, those who lived gently on this land. I love this spot where the Abenaki were the traditional caretakers of the land and waters in Vermont. They call this region “Ndakinna” which means “homeland”.
Dyeing with plants from our gardens here at our “bit of earth” is my very humble homage to the people who lived here before colonialism changed the course of history. When I gather bark and catkins and acorns from the woods and yard for my dye pots, I am aware of the threads that connect me to a simpler way of life. I meditate on the grace of the October foliage, the bounty from our gardens and the wild animals we share this space with. And sometimes I wonder what it would have been like to live among the Abenaki here in Ndakinna.
Lately, I’ve been back and forth to Massachusetts a bunch of times, to help my Mumsie deal with some appointments, and to celebrate her 92nd birthday. I stayed with Doug and Ra, who open their hearts and home to me anytime I need a place to rest my weary body and soul.
This weekend, we were able to host them for a few days. Ra and I went out to gather the marigolds that are still blooming with abandon. Our hard frost is coming soon, but until then, a few hardy plants are still showing off! We strung a bunch of garlands and shared them with friends. I kept a few for a midwinter dye pot, when I’ll need a bit of cheer.
This is the cut paper display on the bulletin board in the lobby at my Mumsie’s assisted living community. She designs and cuts out a theme each month. Her work makes me smile each time I see it.
Little Tilly turned two this past week, and I stitched her a geranium dress using a pattern by Made by Rae. I’ve used this pattern a number of times and I love the way it goes together. This time I purchased the expansion pack, with included an option with sleeves. (This was a bit bit trickier to put together!) I found the fabric at Notion in Montpelier, (designed by Jen Hewett). I took the collar with me, which I had cut from fabric I dyed with madder root from the garden, hoping to find a print to match it. Bingo!
As the election grows closer, I realize I’ve been doing a good bit of self soothing. Reading? yes. Cooking? yes. Tidying up? yes. Sewing? yes. Where are you finding calm and solace?
I found a free pattern for an “origami pouch” via Indigobird design. Made from two T-shaped pieces of fabric, five pockets are created by folding and stitching. This is an excellent beginner’s project, and a quick gift to stitch up. I adapted the pattern by swapping a “scrunchy” and button for the snap described in the pattern. The parasol fabric came via snail mail from a quilting buddy from our days in Connecticut. xo The button is from my grandmother’s button box…vintage, for sure!
I listened to The Glassmaker by Tracy Chavalier while I was driving back and forth to my Mumsie’s, and I’m reminded that her writing is such a good companion. I also listened to James by Percival Everett, a retelling of the story of Huckleberry Finn. Our book group gathered on Friday night to discuss the book and we decided we will need a quick and breezy read as we get through the next few weeks. The Thursday Murder Club, by Richard Osman looks like it will fit the bill. And It looks like Netflix is in production on a film version with a “killer cast”
Above Ground, poetry by Clint Smith, has been in my bag, ready to distract me while waiting for appointments. His work is exquisite. I thank our daughter Hannah for sending a copy along to me.
Head’s up… I often read Winter Morning Walks, by Ted Kooser, day by day, and I think I’ll do it again this year. I may try to snap some photos to pair with his words, and I invite you to follow along, too. The book starts with an entry on November 9th, so you have a few weeks to find the book.
As a closing gratitude, I am holding Hibakusha in the light. I lit a candle in their honor, and shall keep their legacy close to my heart.