Dipping my feet back in the water

I've taken some time off from the blogging world. Ok, that's an understatement. I totally went MIA from blogging in order to refocus, develop new interests and stay busy. Time away is good for the soul. I didn't want "life to happen, while I was busy making plans." I'll never understand the reasons for this wait, and yet, in my heart I know that this wait has made me grow as a person, in ways I never imagined and probably in some ways I didn't want to but knew it was for the best. I have more confidence in myself and my abilities, which I hope will translate into being a better person and a better parent.

Along the way, I've learned to deal blackjack, remodel my home with tile, paint and glaze cabinets, paint and distress furniture, and lots of manual labor.

My newest love though is sewing. It started with wanting a few new window treatments, which caused me to dust off my 20+ year old machine to see if it would even turn on. Gotta love a good 'ole Sears product! What started simply has turned into a new passion. I've learned to make tote bags and clutches. I browsed a few blogs (of course!) and fell in love with boutique-style children's clothing, especially when modeled by some Asian cuties. Now I'm shopping for a new sewing machine, one that will do more than just sew a straight line. Quilts squares, anyone? It may be time to refocus on that 100 good wishes quilt.