Cinco de Mayo

To many people in the world El Cinco de Mayo commemorates freedom but for me it is the anniversary of my aunt and uncle. These two very special people waited for me to be born so they could set their wedding date since my mother was to be the matron of honor and my father the best man. They have been like parents to me in many ways but were also just some one I could turn to when I did not want to speak to my parents. This is the value of an extended family. I grew up with lots of aunts, uncles, and cousins. There was always someone around I could go to if I didn't want to confide in my parents. Even though our homes were different ( some noisy, some quiet) the values were the same. I remember having cousins coming to my house to talk to my parents and I couldn't understand why. My parents were so strict. Well so were my aunts and uncles but they didn't have to enforce the rules for me so it was easier to talk more freely. Weekly all the families got together at my grandfather's house. The parents in the living room and the children in one of the extra bedrooms where we were allowed to play. Now I imagine that they discussed the children as well as world affairs on those Sunday afternoons. I'm sure it never occurred to us that they actually talked to each other about us but they did. In that way they knew how and what we were doing and we felt we had a someone we could comfortably talk to. So I thank my family for providing me with a loving supportive environment to grow up in. And to the aunt and uncle whose anniversary is today thank you for always loving me and for showing me how to love forever.

Happy Anniversary!!

Today DH and I have been married for 24 years and I am looking forward to the next 24. What fun we are having. Raising a family, creating a home, getting to know each other, and helping each other grow. Being there for each other whether we get it or not and facing whatever comes together. Even when the road is not smooth we find a way to laugh together. Although we have very different personalities we love each other so much we are always trying to accommodate each others needs. Love and marriage are a wonderful thing if you find the "one" like I have.

What else am I working on?

Up until this past Monday my OAAT project was Michael Powell's Spanish Mini Cottage. Last week I signed up for an exchange ( I couldn't resist). So now I have to put this aside and stitch my exchange piece. Of course I can't put a picture of my progress on my exchange piece since it has to be a surprise but here is a picture of my progress on the Spanish Mini Cottage.

Progress on TW 1st Day of Christmas SAL

In February I joined a TW 12 Days of Christmas SAL. We started with the 1st Day of Christmas. I am stitching mine on off white Jubilee as a 3 X4 banner. I decided to stitch this on TW Mondays only and complete at least one ornament per year. After 10 weeks here is my progress:

Spring has Sprung!!!!

I love this time of year and spring has been particularly beautiful this year. I love to watch everything renew itself. The daffodils are out and the trees are budding. I can leave my windows open and fill the house with fresh air. I can watch my drapes and curtain float with the breeze. I feel lighter and energized somehow. My children say I am solar powered and it must be so. Everything seems to be so much more fun somehow. So I am off to rum errands and enjoy the sunshine and warmth of a spring evening. I hope that where ever you are you are enjoying the day as well.