Shoreline, at Point Betsie Lighthouse, Frankfort MI
Along the trail at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Birding at the Arcadia Marsh Boardwalk, where we saw sandhill cranes!
Two generations, binding a collaborative quilt, sewn to celebrate a 20th wedding anniversary.
Pieced by Gretta and Lindsey in Michigan and yours truly here in Vermont, our squares were shared thanks to the USPS, Lindsey sewed the quilt top and Ben free motion quilted it at maker space in Michigan.
While I was away from sewandswowlife our extended family gathered in a big house in Michigan…Batman and I, our kids, their partners and all five grandkids. There was much time spent outdoors, time walking, discovering, laughing, cooking, eating together, reminiscing, revisiting childhood haunts and making memories with this new generation.
Being away is so good for the soul, and yet, coming back home is also delightful. Yet, dearest readers, I am weary. I’m guessing maybe you are too. If we all sat down with paper and pen/cil and listed the reasons we are weary it would be impressive. Honestly, I might have a hard time stopping. Have we ever lived in such times? (And, if you are not feeling weary, please discuss in the comments below!)
I started writing this blog the same month that Barack Obama first took office. In 2009. Seventeen years ago. I have tried to create a quiet, peaceful corner on the very loud and attention grabbing internet. And I am weary in this, too.
I wrote in my last post that I was “pondering”. I have spent a good bit of time pondering the value of this spot here. Am I an “imposter” or burned out, or irrelevant? I’m really not sure.
Mostly, I come here just to record my projects and sometimes let my thoughts meander with you.
But there is something to be said about showing up. Despite the weariness, despite the self doubt, despite the enormity of the times we are navigating.
I really want to know what brings you to this little spot on the internet. I am wondering how I might renew my energy here and help us all move through these demoralizing days.
Let me know in the comments below…how are you doing? How might I help you carry on? Maybe together we can keep showing up.
With hope, me.