There is no medicine like HOPE

Yesterday, browsing the local thrift store, I was anticipating what 'treasure' I would find. Then I saw a jar of old buttons. As I rotated the jar , I noted the buttons were all different colors, sizes and styles. Although I had absolutely no 'concrete' idea what I would do with them, I had to have them. Paying only $0.25, I proudly carried my purchase home. I was thinking how expensive buttons are in our modern department stores. Along with the buttons I had found little pieces of fabric, laces, and an old tablecloth waiting to be embroidered. I was in heaven!

If only these antique findings and buttons could tell us their stories, I said to myself. It was true, by themselves the buttons might have been insignificant to the person who donated them to the thrift store, but together they were manifesting my 'next' masterpiece. Yes, perhaps some of these buttons will be suitable for my next Button Block! You see, I have been eagerly following Pam Kellogg's blog posts and the progress of her Button Quilt. Pam's work is amazing! Click here to see all her thirty some blocks: http://www.flickr.com/photos/kittyandme/sets/72157604118179469/

Each morning, I visit Pam's blog to inspire me. After seeing her beautiful accomplishments, I ponder what new project I am going to start. Then I look at the different WIP's gathering around my house, and resort to completing the crocheted project I have already started. Crocheting is very convenient to work on while my favorite show is on television.

I also eagerly anticipate my mystery stitch along which is starting March 5th. As I admire my last year's work, I eagerly anticipate this new mystery. And guess whose blog site I saw this beautiful invitation? Yes, I love Pam's designs and signed up already! You can see the design here: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=21401223

I sincerely hope these stitching projects will help me relax. As I create my projects, I renew my connection with God and nurture my relationships with others. I reflect projects I've completed, things that can bring beauty and love. And I am thankful to God for blessing me with my 'eagle' eyesight, hands and patience to create. It is amazing how completing a project elates me!

Yesterday I spent some time with a friend of mine and would I be 'dating' myself to mention we went to school together back in the 60's? Then, last week, I finished a letter to my penpal in Australia and thought back to our first letters we exchanged when we were only in elementary school. My Aussie friend visited Canada in 1999 as we celebrated our fiftieth birthdays together. Writing the 'snail' mail letter brought back many childhood memories.

Oh those childhooh days! Reflections of 'hope' as tiny crocuses poke their beautiful little purple buds through the melting prairie snow! Yes, spring is coming and as I watch the temperature gauge still lurking down in the minus digits, I anticipate the warm days of spring and summer so very much. As I stitch my next project, I will be counting the days!

Here is a quotation from my colection to ponder:

"There is no medicine like hope,

no incentive so great, and no tonic

so powerful as expectation of something better tomorrow."

-- Orison Swett Marden

- seen on a chiropractor's marquee

I think we all need the reassuance of HOPE and better days to come!