Happy December, it's the most scheduled time of the year! In our family, December is especially busy with Sinterklaas (Dutch Christmas) on the 5th, our son's birthday on the 9th, and then our attention finally turns to Christmas. A few of D's friends also have December birthdays, so it makes for busy weekends trying to celebrate each child. And of course, those Hallmark movies aren't going to watch themselves!
One thing I have learned from having a brain injury is how to let go of expectations. If ever there was a month when we feel pressured by the "I shoulds," it's December. Holiday traditions. Memory making. Gift giving. Quilts to finish! My mantra is, "All I can do is all I can do and that's all I can do." Stress triggers brain crashes, so I let it go. Some years I make dozens of cookies. Some years I make done. Some years I finish a flurry of quilts. Some years I don't finish one on my list of UFOs. But every year, I take time to enjoy my family, whether it's doing an activity together, or snuggle on the couch watching a movie. "Together" is what makes memories.
This December is likely to be one of those less active holiday seasons. My mom is home after her double knee surgery (and is already walking with a cane!), I sliced my thumb making Thanksgiving dinner, and we are all ready to relax after a busy six months of moving, renovating, starting a new school, and adjusting to a new city.
Along those lines, my One Monthly Goal for December is to make time to play with my new-to-me longarm! My local quilt shop was selling the one I took my lessons on, and I was happy to make the splurge as we were just selling the Dream House and I knew I finally had room. It took a month to get it to my new studio and another two months to set it up. For the last three months, I've been too busy with everything else to refresh my memory and start playing. So this month, I will watch videos, ask questions on all my favorite quilting sites, and PLAY!
To see the ever-evolving state of my new craft room, check out #VesperViewStudio on Instagram. To see what I'm currently working on, follow me at deJongDreamHouse.
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It sounds like you've got a no stress plan on place for the holidays. Have fun playing with your longarm (and happy birthday,D!!)
ReplyDeleteEnjoy playing with your new-to-you longarm!! My longarm certainly makes it easier to finish quilts...it's actually my favorite part of making a quilt!! I'm looking forward to seeing what you quilt!!
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