When true simplicity is gained
“Simple Gifts” sung by Judy Collins
As I was reviewing contributions by other artists to a stitching class I am participating in, the words of the folk song Simple Gifts flowed through my mind. After a year of COVID, I seem to thrive when moving towards true simplicity. The theme seems to be shaping my choices in life in areas as diverse as changing doctors to cleaning out a studio closet.
I think this is all good. I learned many years ago when we moved from our first home to another house that it is all too easy to collect clutter. However, basically living in one place for a year with much of my time contained within one structure has definitely intensified my need to simplify and eliminate.
In our Sewing Circle group, we are beginning by exploring basic stitches. I love the simple beauty of combining a little thread with some fine cloth. Our group contributes from around the globe so while I am still basically remaining in one place, I feel connected to friends around the earth.

What is a bit magical about this experience is that it is awakening my creative spirit, not just in stitching but in fiber in general. I spent yesterday morning in Joe Cunningham’s Quilt Freedom Workshop (online of course) and found myself inspired by his sharing. I love Joe as he rambles and is not exactly perfect in his presentation (i.e. his bobbin ran out in the middle of a demo) so he is just there as totally human sharing his love of quilting. I found myself enjoying the random pieces I stitched and perhaps, much more importantly, tossing around an idea for a quilt of my own. Who knows where that will go as I am still pretty limited on free personal time here but I found joy in simply exploring an idea of creating a statement in fiber on the past year.

Here is hoping that each of you discover something that excites you today and brings a bit of joy into your life.