Where I Return to (Semi) Regular Programming

In preparation for my upcoming writing class, I pulled out an essay about my grandmother that I had started writing last year. I finished it, more or less (I think there are still some issues with the past tense that need to be resolved in places), and showed it to my parents. They loved it, and then my mom gave it to my grandmother. I was a little hesitant about that; it’s very truthful, and I worried one or two parts might hurt her feelings. Thankfully, she loved it too, and has been showing it to anyone who will read it (including the residents of her retirement home). I’m happy about that, because it’s not sappy at all but still conveys how much fun we had with her as kids, and how much we loved spending time with her. And, given that she’s in her 80s, I’m glad she got to know that.

Truthfully, I’m not sure if it will be funny or enjoyable to people who don’t know my grandmother. At the same time, it reminded me that there are lots of reasons to write, and I can’t think of a much better reason to write than to make someone I love happy.

On another note, I got new shoes this weekend. This was part necessity as my current shoes were disintegrating, and part retail therapy. 

I’m still knitting -  I discovered a merino/silk blend yarn and an easy scarf pattern, thinking it would be great for spring. And it probably might be, but I have a sinking suspicion it will be August before I finish it. I’m still working on hand quilting a sofa quilt, while contemplating any number of other sewing and knitting projects. I find that much like writing, if I go too long without a good “hand” project I start getting cranky and out of sorts. There’s something about making things with my hands, rather than my head, that is really good for my soul.

And, on the reading list…through my craft blog perusing I discovered a new book entitled “A Homemade Life” by Molly Wizenberg, which led me to her blog. Really, really loved this book, and I don’t cook (it’s part memoir, part recipes), and sad that it’s finished. Great writing, and proof that a good blog can land you a publishing deal. I also dove into “Plan B” by Anne Lamott, a book of essays. I loved “Traveling Mercies”, but I’m not so into “Plan B”, although I can’t really put my finger on why. Also great writing, though, no question about that.

Finally, who can pout too much with this face peering into one's own?  (it's a little blurry, he moves fast)