‘Tis the gift to be simple, ’tis the gift to be free
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‘Tis the gift to come down where we ought to be,
And when we find ourselves in the place just right,
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‘Twill be in the valley of love and delight.
When true simplicity is gained,
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To bow and to bend we shan’t be ashamed,
To turn, turn will be our delight,
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Till by turning, turning we come ’round right.
Joseph Brackett, 1848
‘Tis the Gift happens to be one of my granddaughter’s favorite songs – I have no complaints on that! It also is a favorite of mine and such a great reminder for this season. Simplicity is my mantra this time of year. No major art projects; no major plans. I try to take care of all holiday shopping before December so I can enjoy the season. I love Christmas Carols and getting together with friends. I especially want the time to savor that I am alive, healthy, and blessed with a wonderful family and friends.
In keeping with the theme of simple, my focus these December days is on hand stitching. I have learned that it does not take much to turn a piece of cloth into a celebration of stitchery: a few French Knots, maybe a bouillon knot or two, and some buttonhole lace.
Here are some of the pieces I have been working on:
May you have a joyful and peaceful December!
Linking to NinaMarie’s Off the Wall Blog.
Lovely post about thankfulness and simplicity in a season when one can get so lost in stress and commercialism.
A simple elegance to that piece, too, Judy. Blessings!
I love your delicate work! I agree with simplicity for the season… may you enjoy your Holidays, Judy!
Wow, the lessons learned over the past year of hand stitching really stand out with these pieces. I love both the shading and contrast you captured with the yellow floral piece. Oh, and the variety in scale.