Helen's Blog

It’s starting to look a little like this!

2012-01-30T20:39:00.001+01:00

But I have to admit we are not quite there yet! This is a picture from December 2010. But who knows we might get some more snow. Although according to the weatherman it will only become colder.

Who are you?

2012-01-30T20:24:00.001+01:00

I received my weekly report on the number of visitors to my blog this morning.

Date	Visits	Page Views
Monday 23-01-12	103	134
Tuesday 24-01-12	187	233
Wednesday 25-01-12	132	162
Thursday 26-01-12	86	113
Friday 27-01-12	70	85
Saturday 28-01-12	76	89
Sunday 29-01-12	170	215

I’m amazed there were 824 visits. Only I don’t know who you are! I’m really curious, please leave a comment as I would really love to hear from you.

Let personalize your visit to my blog. Don’t be a lurker . It is so easy to leave a comment. Watch this tutorial.

If you decided to post a comment and you have your own blog, please also leave your URL so that I can visit you.

Hoping to finally meet you and share our passion of quilting.

Quilting and dreams

2012-01-29T20:38:00.001+01:00

I did say dreaming was part of the process.

That happens when you leave things laying around in your dreams or in my case letting that small needle drop onto the ground. Oops.

But as you can see they are really hard to find. I’m currently using the extra Fine Quilting Needle from Clover

For those who are wondering who this guy is in my dreams. It is Sam Worthington. Cool actor.

Attitude for Gratitude post – week 4

2012-01-29T10:27:00.001+01:00

It looks like we are going to have a winter after all! Temperatures are slowly going below 0 ^oC . Expected temperature Wednesday -2 ^oC at noon and -8 ^oC at night. Better get my coupe heater connected. Winter is coming! This exhilarates me and gives me joy. Add a little sunshine and I’m completely happy.

But can we expect this also?

I’m enraptured. I picked up Zoë’s quilt and did some more quilting. How I’ve missed it. This needle-wielding hand craft gives me joy. Although it has already taken me 4 years to complete this quilt. I do believe nothing compares to making a handmade quilt. Quilting is the sewing through and together of 3 layers: the back, the batting, and the pieced top. Love this quilt. It will be hard to give it away.

Tickled being able to see movies on a large screen at home. And, I mean a large screen! Saw Jane Eyre. Yes, that book written by Charlotte Brontë.

If you have the same taste as I do, it is worth watching. Really should find time to read the book!

Then I saw the movie: The Debt. This we watched with friends. Four of us in hubby’s home theater.

The Debt is an espionage thriller that begins in 1997, as shocking news reaches retired Mossad secret agents Rachel (Helen Mirren) and Stefan (Tom Wilkinson) about their former colleague David (Ciarán Hinds).I emphasized with Rachel (Helen Mirren) and young David (Sam Worthington). Amazing acting. Or do I like Sam because he is an English-born Australian actor? Did you know he also played in Avatar? I only did after reading his bio

Thankful that it was only a fire drill last Friday at work. It was a practice session seeing how quickly and calm we could evacuate the building. Had to walk down 14 flights of stairs! Stand outside for 20 minutes in the cold. Lucky me, my boss offered his coat. Mine was in the car. Afterwards walked up 5 flights of stairs but gave up and took the elevator. Hope I don’t have to hear the fire alarm go off any time soon. Boy, that is an awful sound.

Heard an interview on the radio from one of the participants to the Davos-Klosters Economic Forum Meeting. The World Economic Forum is an independent international organization committed to improving the state of the world by engaging business, political, academic and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. Felt a little downcast afterwards. But from a positive perspective, he emphasised that I’m not the only one who is feeling the change. Personally I think they should invite me to join their discussions. One of the things that is wrong with this world is that the wrong people have too much power. Those in power lose the connection with society and with ‘us’ people in general. It is about them and not about ‘us’. My impression of economists is that they are not very heartful people. The solutions to our social and personal problems and challenges require active engagement, not just reflection and rhetorical and philosophical musings about the economy and business. So lets all be thankful, show our gratitude and be more compassionate. Walk the talk!

How do we do this? How do we create a compassionate and heartful culture? How do we transform and heal our world? Buddhism teaches that in order to transform our world, our families, our workplaces, our communities, we must transform ourselves through contemplative and meditative practices, through self inquiry and self reflection and through the cultivation of benevolent humanitarian and compassionate ethics and values. We must cultivate the capacity to be genuinely concerned about the welfare of others. The path to a compassionate society arises from the intentions and actions of individuals within that society. I like what Dr. Nalini Chilhov has to say. Things don’t change by following the leader. Things change when YOU decide to change.

I also think we should focus a little more on co-creative interactions. This might be the answer to spark innovation, increase people engagement and therefore generate value (especially the economic kind). Lets combine Maslow’s hierarchy of needs with the engagement pyramid.

Thankful for the little bit of spring in our living room.

But most of all I’m grateful for the fact I know everything will turn out fine. I think I can say I’ve finally reached the top of Maslow’s hierarchy .

All have a good week and try to find some ‘me’ time.

They are back!

2012-01-27T21:23:00.001+01:00

It is not just one, but there are many of them

Sadly, I have to tell you that there seems to be still some bacteria residing in my ears. These are tough little b.st.rds!!

The middle ear is the small, air-filled cavity just behind the paper-thin eardrum. Normally, air enters the middle ear through the Eustachian tube, equalizing the pressure between the middle ear and outer ear. The Eustachian tube also drains fluid out of the middle ear. When this tube becomes blocked, and air and fluid cannot flow freely, pressure builds in the ear, causing pain.

If fluid behind the eardrum becomes infected with a virus or bacteria, it causes a middle ear infection that can lead to pain and fever. Well I don’t have a fever (again) but I’m sure experiencing some pain.

GP has got me started on my third antibiotic therapy. Hope this will kill those b…s…ds. It is getting a little tedious.

Going to bed now with some paracetamol (acetaminophen). Hoping that the pain will be a little less tomorrow.

Happy Australia Day

2012-01-26T07:48:00.001+01:00

Had to share. I am, you are, we are Australian. Love the lyrics. Check it out, here.

Have a great day!

Diary of 5

2012-01-25T08:09:00.001+01:00

Join the Diary of Five community here

I am seeing... lots of people going no where. Sensing a lot of negative energy. Can’t wait for the Year of the Dragon to have its affect.

The year of the Dragon is the year for great deeds, innovative ideas and big projects. The Year of the Dragon will bring the excitement, a big ups and downs in our lives. Only if we adjusted the ruler in the right way, we will be able to pick the most beautiful fruits that we could ever imagine. Dragon gives happiness and success to all good and honest people.

By the way, I’m a wood dragon. Does that mean I’ll have twice of the above? Or will it be a steep learning curve?

I am hearing... lots of critic.

I am smelling... Addict2 from Dior on my skin. At the moment this is my favourite perfume.

I tasted... rye bread with cheese this morning.

I am feeling... Underestimated. I’m thinking the odds are against me. You would nearly think my goals might be unrealistic if I listen to the ‘others’. I’m feeling uninspired & undervalued. I thrive on adversity, it is fuel to my happiness. I won’t let the ‘others’ get me down.

“…sometimes life’s gonna hit you in the head with a brick. Don’t lose faith.” — Steve Jobs, Stanford Commencement Address 2005

You got to visit this blog. I think it is true true that novelty and challenge bring happiness. Although it is usually delayed. You just need to have faith. But first comes a stressful period of feeling frustrated, stupid, exposed, insecure, confused…but along with that discomfort, you get a big surge of happiness. Well people, guess what phase I’m in?? But I know, I’m convinced that I’ll get my happiness back.

But it is really hard to unwind and go with the flow. It helps looking at this view.

Happy Australia Day!

2012-01-25T07:37:00.000+01:00

May all those Aussies have a great day. Celebrate what’s great!

Australia Day is the official national day of Australia. Celebrated annually on 26 January, the date commemorates the arrival of the First Fleet at Sydney Cove in 1788 and the proclamation at that time of British sovereignty over the eastern seaboard of New Holland.

Wishing I could pop over and join in the fun. But I’ll be celebrating all the great things about Australia here in the Netherlands. I miss your spirit of optimism.

Attitude is Everything – a meditative moment.

2012-01-24T17:25:00.000+01:00

Attitudes are contagious.png" alt="Attitudes are contagious.png" src="https://rgw.infusionsoft.com/Download?Id=11308" width="348" height="234">

By clicking here you can hear 7 simple insights that will help change the way you feel right this minute. Your attitude is everything and so is mine!

Quilting post

2012-01-24T07:09:00.001+01:00

Last night was another quilting filled evening. My fellow quiltermakers were in a upper best state. There was lots of laughing and stitching but there was also a serious side to the evening. Berna and Juud need to decide on which fabric they will use for the background. They want to let those Camelot blocks pop up and shine. Especially Berna was having a hard time, but I think she made her choice as she already had ordered the fabric.

Here are a selection of fat-quarters. Which one do you think she choose?

Had to take this picture from a distance as some of the Camelot blocks aren’t allowed to be published yet . Here the different fat-quarters are being laid out.

We can definitely conclude I was still ill last week. What is wrong in this picture?

The blocks have not been sewn on right!! I still need to learn my ABC’s. The columns are alphabetized and rows are numbered. Here I was thinking it was the other way round . So I had to undo some of my work. Lucky me, I piece slow and hadn’t done a lot. Unpicking three blocks is a lot easier, than unpicking the whole quilt.

Drawing the sewing lines on my sashings.

Nearly got it done right last night! Yes, I’m still busy with putting on the sashings.

While packing my stuff to go home, this happens.

What caught their eye?

My little bear . He is cute isn’t he? It is my travel bear.

What caught my eye last night, this unusual quilt hoop. I think this might come in handy for quilting those borders. I’ll be putting this contraption on my wish list.

Looking forward to the next bee.

Country girl

2012-01-23T20:13:00.000+01:00

Helen is a country girl living incognito in suburbia. Ssssssz, don't tell anyone.

Attitude for Gratitude post – week 3

2012-01-22T11:08:00.001+01:00

This week I realized that ''It is better to be going somewhere slowly than going nowhere fast!'' I’m grateful that I was able to bounce back after hearing some news that most likely will affect my life greatly.

You have three choices in life – Give up, Give in, or Give it all you got. I’ve given the first two a go in the past and decided to give the third one a go this time. I must make a choice to take a chance or my life will never change.

Joyfully listening to the “Pitter! Patter! drops of rain; Dancing on the windowpane! Sometimes fast and sometimes slow; Up and down the glass they go; Making their own music sweet; With the patter of their feet…” ~ Marion Doyle

Content after a family dinner last night. We met up with the family to celebrate my mum’s birthday. Here is mum with her daughters!

By the way I’m the one on the right side Must do something about that shine on my face. Maybe more mat foundation

I appreciate the luxury of having another Dr. Hauschka body massage last thursday. A good massage is an exhilarating experience. The basic goal of massage therapy is to help the body heal itself and to increase health and well-being. I need to re-energize after my middle ear infection. I needed to give my energy level a big boost.

Feeling buoyant when realizing I can take pictures like this:

Grateful that I can sit behind my computer in my pyjamas with a nice cup of Oolong Tea writing this post. But feeling very beatific realizing I can take a nana nap after publishing this post.

Guess where I'm going!

Diary of Five

2012-01-18T05:33:00.001+01:00

I am seeing...nothing but darkness when looking out of my window at this moment (it is only 5am!!)

I am hearing... Stillness

I am smelling... the freshly washed bath towels that I just got out of the dryer.

I tasted... quark cheese with blueberries this morning

I am feeling... restless. Sensing change. That’s what happens sometimes; things change, life takes a turn and sometimes you have to start all over. But I’m not the first and only person in the world who has had to do this!

Stillness

Empty yourself of everything.
Let the mind rest at peace.
The ten thousand things rise and fall while the Self watches their return.
They grow and flourish and then return to the source.
Returning to the source is stillness, which is the way of nature. Lao Tzu

What is going on here?

2012-01-17T04:54:00.000+01:00

Piecing and fabric selections! Everyone is working on their blocks. Another thing you can see, is that I’m the only one working on her Dear Jane . Juud is giving me time to catch up . And, if you look at the next picture, you can see I’ve finally started with the sashing.

I’ve decided to use the sashing as on the original Jane. For Jane's sashing I cut pieces 5" x 1", and attach to the right side of each block. I have to remember not to do this on the 13th block in each row! To make sashing for the rows I’ve cut sashings 1" X 5 1/2" and I’m sewing the on the bottom of each block (except for the bottom of blocks in row M). I decided against making corner stones or setting squares in my sashing. We do have to make choices every now and then! Quilting is very much like life!

“The happiness of a ~~man~~ women in this life does not consist in the absence, but in the mastery, of ~~his~~ her passions.” ~ Alfred Tennyson

Love being a quiltmaker!

Characteristics of a Creative Personality

2012-01-16T14:56:00.000+01:00

- Creative individuals have a great deal of energy, but they are also often quiet and at rest.
- Creative individuals tend to be smart, yet also naive at the same time.
- Creative individuals have a combination of playfulness and discipline, or responsibility and irresponsibility.
- Creative individuals alternate between imagination and fantasy at one end, and rooted sense of reality at the other.
- Creative people seem to harbour opposite tendencies on the continuum between extroversion and introversion.
- Creative individuals are also remarkable humble and proud at the same time.
- Creative individuals to a certain extent escape rigid gender role stereotyping and have a tendency toward androgyny.
- Generally, creative people are thought to be rebellious and independent.
- Most creative persons are very passionate about their work, yet they can be extremely objective about it as well.

The above definition is from Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

Do I have the courage to be creative? Do I possess a creative personality? If I re-read the above, I have to admit I do.

As mentioned in one of my previous Attitude for Gratitude posts I’ve discovered that I’m not challenged enough. I’m dyeing from boredom because my knowledge & skills are not being put to use in certain areas. It is strange to acknowledge this when only a short time ago I was in the other continuum. You remember the anxious Helen? Wondering how I’m going to change my current situation? One way is to remain focussed on my ABC. You can read more about that here. Another was is to change my situation.

As Steve Jobs said in this Stanford commencement speech, “…for the past 33 years, I have looked in the mirror every morning and asked myself: “If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?” And whenever the answer has been “No” for too many days in a row, I know I need to change something.”

How am I going to get into my FLOW channel?

Or as some call it, being "in the zone" or "one with the music"? According to Steve Jobs:

STAY HUNGRY, STAY FOOLISH

I think I’m going to give this a try

Pumpkin soup

2012-01-15T17:39:00.001+01:00

Guess what I’m having for dinner?

PS. I’m sure I’ll be freezing some portions for the future

Remember?

2012-01-15T16:57:00.001+01:00

During the Dear Jane Circle at my place last November I got this beautiful glass bowl. This is what I did with it.

A little spring in our home.

By the way I’m living creativity! Love my new camera!!!

Check this out!

2012-01-15T14:38:00.001+01:00

I’m so thankful that hubby helped me make a virtual design wall for my Dear Jane this morning. After a couple of hours he said he was ready to show his efforts and help me write a user-manual (so that I don’t forget all the steps I need to take to upload a baby Jane image).

Than began the tedious job of uploading all the images. One thing I’ve already learned - I really must make a photo where the baby Jane is right in the centre of the photo.

And, after uploading 17 babies, this is what you see. To check it out, click here.

Don’t you just love this second header of my Dear Jane Status?

Attitude for Gratitude post – week 2

2012-01-15T08:23:00.001+01:00

This last week nothing much has been happening. I was ill and so I had a lot of time to think. This middle ear infection I picked-up was virulent. It was good to realize I’m not a good patient, especially when I don’t feel up too much. My time was spend primarily sleeping. In between sleeps I read some magazines (I just wasn’t able to concentrate on any heavy literature) and did some piecing. As mentioned I also spend a lot of time thinking. Tried to channel my thoughts purposively. To think long-term. I also revisited my GP and the antibiotic treatment has been extended. This bacterial infection is a tough one!

I’m thankful we live in a time that communication through social-media is so assessable. Glad we have internet, especially this week. I was able to catch-up on some reading of some great blogs. Did some research on northern Wales. Check-out which places we can visit during our vacation. One thing led to another and I thought why not contact a quilter, who’s blog I’ve been reading for some time and lives in Wales. She answered my e-mail promptly. Isn’t it great that this is all possible? Well, we have set a date! We are meeting each other at the Jen Jones Welsh Quilt Centre in Lampeter. Can you guess who I’m meeting?

Living an life of gratitude has lead to an bounteous life. I’m pleased to say I have the power in me to regulate myself. It took me sometime to finally understand that there are many things to be grateful for everyday! It is a mindset! If you live by this ABC I’m sure you can grasp this mindset too.

A refers to attitude. William James, a pioneering American psychologist and philosopher, wrote, “The greatest revolution of our generation is the discovery that human beings, by changing the inner attitudes of their minds, can change the outer aspects of their lives.” So much in life depends on our attitude. The way we choose to see things and respond to others makes all the difference. To do the best we can and then to choose to be happy about our circumstances, whatever they may be, can bring peace and contentment. I’m truly grateful that I grasp this.

“We can’t direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails.” Life itself isn’t always smooth sailing. Setbacks can actually help move us toward our goals. I learned that the hard way .

sailing yachts Whitsundays, Australia

My mind is wondering! Getting a little side-tracked, so you can skip the next part and just go to B is for believe. Or you can read my ramblings about the picture above. I can look at that picture above for hours. Many moons ago, I did sail along the Whitsunday Islands. An amazing experience, an amazing time. Would love to go back and live the experience again, maybe another time. But I do want to go back just to make my own digital photo (with my new camera). Sadly, my photos of the Whitsundays trip are pre-digital, so got this of the web, from the Australian Tourist Board .

But back to the subject of this post. B is for believe—in yourself, in those around you, and in eternal principles. Don’t limit yourself and don’t let others convince you that you are limited in what you can do. Believe in yourself and then live so as to reach your possibilities. You can achieve what you believe you can. Trust and believe and have faith.

C is for courage. Courage becomes a worthwhile and meaningful virtue when you live decently. Love this quote by the American essayist and poet Ralph Waldo Emerson. “Whatever you do, you need courage. Whatever course you decide on, there is always someone to tell you that you are wrong. There are always difficulties arising that tempt you to believe that your critics are right. To map out a course of action and follow it to an end requires some of the same courage that a soldier needs. Peace has its victories, but it takes brave men and women to win them.”

Courage is required to make an initial thrust toward one’s desired goal, but even greater courage is called for when one stumbles and must make a second effort to achieve. For me courage means to persevere. Perseverance is commitment, hard work, patience, endurance. Perseverance is being able to bear difficulties calmly and without complaint. Perseverance is trying again and again. Have the determination to make the effort, the single-mindedness to work toward a worthy goal, and the courage not only to face the challenges that inevitably come but also to make a second effort, should such be required.

Attitude, believe, and courage are ways to live yourself happy. By focussing on gratitude I come in a positive flow and come a little closer to grace. Expressing my gratitude is medicine to my heart.

Gratitude changes the pangs of memory into a tranquil joy. ~
Dietrich Bonhoeffer

C also stands for creativity. Exploring ways to express myself. Creativity is defined as the tendency to generate or recognize ideas, alternatives, or possibilities that may be useful in solving problems, communicating with others, and entertaining ourselves and others. I have to be more courageous in my creativity.

“Imagination is the beginning of creation. You imagine what you desire, you will what you imagine and at last you create what you will.” ~ George Bernard Shaw

To come to an close; I appreciate this time out. I’ve been able to reassess and affirm my goals. I’m going to be creative in realizing them.

“Sometimes you've got to let everything go - purge yourself. If you are unhappy with anything . . . whatever is bringing you down, get rid of it. Because you'll find that when you're free, your true creativity, your true self comes out.” ~ Tina Turner

I did say I appreciated my time out. As you can see I’ve been thinking a lot

E8 & F5 = 49

2012-01-13T21:20:00.001+01:00

Surprise!! I finished another two baby Jane’s. Aren’t they sweet?

And while I was stitching the last piece. Guess who was inspecting my work? He is taking it very seriously, as you can tell.

In total I pieced 39 pieces. At least that is what I think . Mama’s Maze (E8) comprises of 33 pieces and Parcheesi (F5) of 16. Once these babies are born, they measure 4.5 x 4.5 inch. Yes, they are not big blocks. Piecing the tiny little oval pieces were the biggest challenge.

I just might start on the sashings this weekend. Resistance is futile.

Promised – Here are the Pistol Annies

2012-01-11T17:04:00.001+01:00

Put their CD on my wishlist and the new one of Miranda Lambert, herself. Hope you like them too!

E6 – Michelle’s Medley completed

2012-01-10T18:18:00.001+01:00

As you can see I adapted the pattern to look like the one in the book.

On to the next one – E8

Diary of Five

2012-01-10T18:03:00.001+01:00

A diary of 5 was created to give your senses a gentle work-out. To help you to become more aware of those little moments around you. You can join Peggy Hostetler too, just click here and take part.

I am seeing... Teddy (cat) in the outer corner of my eye. He is sitting next to my screen watching me type this post.

I am hearing... a buzz in my ear. It is pretty annoying and can’t wait for it to go away. Never thought a middle ear infection would be so weary.

I am smelling... the fish on my hands that I just put into my slow cooker. The slow cooker is a Christmas present. I’m using it for the first time. Don’t mind the dirty oven!

I still taste... my last cup of decaf on my tong. I so miss my real coffee. Maybe I should allow myself one cup of real coffee in the weekend and cherish the moment.

I am feeling... joy, although there is no reason for it. I’m homebound and don’t feel up to much. I have to accept that recovery from a double middle ear infection will take longer than I thought. Hopefully I will feel better at the end of the week after I finish my antibiotics treatment. Considering how I feel at the moment this is hard to belief.

Meditative moment

2012-01-10T16:46:00.000+01:00

An excerpt from the book, Internal Power Seven Doorways to Self Discovery by Harold W. Becker.

Attitude for Gratitude post – week 1

2012-01-08T16:39:00.001+01:00

Appreciative to the discoverers of paracetamol (acetaminophen) & antibiotics. The painkilling properties of paracetamol were discovered by accident when a similar molecule (acetanilide) was added to a patient's prescription about 100 years ago. The paracetamol has made my life a little more enjoyable the past couple of days. Antibacterial drugs were first described in 1877, but they didn’t get their name till 1942. Did you know that? Sometimes an accident or war can lead to something good. The prescribed medicine are doing their job, although it nearly took 48 hours before I noticed a decline in the throbbing pain. At the moment there is a continuous buzzing in my left ear which is driving me a little crazy and I ‘m noticing quite some hearing loss. On a positive note – it is kind of peaceful. The dizziness I would rather give a miss.

Thankful for these lovely tulips.

While I was sleeping yesterday afternoon my parents-in-law dropped in and put these lovely tulips in a vase.

Thanks for the well wishes. You know who you are. It is so great to read your comments on my Blog & Facebook. I really appreciate it.

Joyous after hubby explained how I can turn-off the iPhone ringer. It is so simple, all you need to do is flip a switch which is on the upper left-hand side of the iPhone. It’s just above the volume control on the left side. In the picture below it is number 5.

I didn’t know what that button was for. But now I know. It would have been handy if I knew that when I was in the GP’s office . A colleague wouldn’t accept that I wouldn’t pick-up the phone. She phoned 3 times during the consult! I phoned back afterwards to explain. Next time, I can ignore by switching off the ringer.

Delighted to have some energy back this afternoon and able to piece my next Dear Jane block. It is coming along nicely.

I’m really enraptured with my new camera. It arrived just before I got ill. I can make wonderful close-ups of my baby Jane’s in progress. Really like this block.

Feeling rosy with Teddy keeping me warm. You can’t wish for a better cat than Teddy when you are feeling a little under the weather. I’m watching Nurse Jackie or was it Three Rivers?

Gratified when finding something I didn’t know I was looking for. Got two apps that help me to awaken to grace, a moment of transcendence. Yes, I really love my iPhone.

Euphoric after discovering the Pistol Annies this week. Yes, I’m still very much into country music. Wanted to share their debut clip but sadly YouTube is not working with me. Maybe I’ll post it in another post.

Double Otitis Media

2012-01-07T21:04:00.001+01:00

I’m one of lucky few who has gotten an infection of the middle ear, and not just on one side but both sides. This infection is very common in young children but it seems even adults in their prime can get it. Tuesday I noticed that my ears started to ache and that my throat hurt. Thursday evening I was nearly crying with pain. Friday I decided to go to my GP to check it out as during the night my left eardrum burst leaving some blood spots on my pillow.

The GP was fascinated, but mostly impressed with the view when she looked inside my ears. She even called in a young colleague to have a look. It seems the medical profession was pretty happy with my middle ear infection. Am I the only one who thinks this is not funny? The pain can be real maddening. But wasn’t it good of me to help educate the medical profession in their diagnostic skills? I myself know how it looks like, having worked at an ENT clinic with otolaryngologists. Do you want to see how it looks like? This is what an inflamed right ear looks like and burst eardrum.

Not a pretty sight, but I could have posted even more gory pictures . Got these pictures from the web. Sadly, my GP didn’t have a camera on her otoscope.

It has been antibiotics, paracetamol and bed for me ever since! With medicine the infection should be gone in 10 days. And it is true what they say, you start to feel better 2 to 3 days after starting your medicine. A side-effect of the otitis media is having some bad hearing loss and feeling dizzy most of the time. GP suggested that I didn’t drive for a couple of days. Hopefully my hearing will improve with time and the dizziness will subdue.

I can now be a little more emphatic with little kids with earaches. This is definitely not a good thing.

Due to my otitis media I was unable to join our monthly Dear Jane circle. I wasn’t even able to saw a baby Jane today. Luckily, I was able to sleep a lot. I don’t feel a thing than .

Update on Dear Jane

2012-01-03T20:22:00.001+01:00

You will have to check-out my other blog to read more about my progress on the Dear Jane. Just click here.

But here is a little preview.

Yes, I completed another baby Jane. That is two for this week.

Meditative moment

2012-01-03T08:14:00.001+01:00

“Do not go where the path may lead; go instead where there is no path and leave a trail” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

First Attitude for Gratitude post 2012

2012-01-01T16:51:00.001+01:00

"What is grace? I know until you ask me; when you ask me, I do not know." ~ Saint Augustine

Grace is the spiritual freedom that arises from living in harmony with yourself, with others and with the cosmos.

Grace is awakening, authenticity, balance, blessing, effortlessness, faith, freedom, friendship, gratitude, gentleness, happiness, harmony, impermanent, interdependence, laughter, oneness, paradoxical, patience, peaceful, power, pronoia, radiance, rest, strength, synergy, thriving, transcendent, transformative, universal, the way.

Grace is the realization that everything is working for you, that your body, mind and spirit are all aligned for the single purpose of bringing more wisdom, love and joy into the world. When you realize that the entire universe is conspiring on your behalf, you are experiencing grace. Grace is a sense of grand alignment, when your inner and outer purposes align to bring more abundance into the world.

I am grateful to finally be able to grasp grace. It is a precious present. I sometimes lose sight of it, especially regarding money matters. But more frequently, when in grace, I appear to be working hard when actually I’m experiencing relaxation and ease.

In 2012 I’ll further continue trying to align with The Way. This means I’ll continue reading the Tao and other works like the Bible.

I’m pretty blithesome after my little outing with my nieces. I saw Puss in Boots. Lovely story and when reading between the lines a message. Although I expect that my nieces are still too young to understand.

I’m thankful that hubby made time to hang up a railing so that I can hang my quilt design wall from it. I can continue with my Bargello and see how the wave-pattern turns-out before I start sewing all the pieces together.

Still rejoicing after two days celebrating Christmas. Thrilled that I even got an reaction from a blogger after posting on my Pavlova. According to my family it is the best one yet. It looked fantastic and tasted amazingly delicious.

Lighthearted after meeting up with friends last Wednesday. Looking forward to our next date.

A little gleeful after finishing another baby Jane (E7 – Bread Basket) and cutting 200 sashings. Read more about it here.

Buoyant realizing that ‘we’ are going to be producing our own eco-friendly solar energy. In about 2 years time I’ll be able to enjoy the returns of my investment. Thankful that hubby makes it all possible.

Grateful that we are able to look forward to another holiday in Wales. I truly feel grace when I’m in Bala.

Sanquine for having found an outlet for my creativity. Quilting is such an enjoyable endeavour. Looking forward to receiving the first two parcels this month for the two BOM’s I’ve joined. There is a lot of parallel between quilting and my life. I won’t ponder this subject any further in this post.

Convinced that 2012 will be a great year and glad that it is finally here.

New year’s eve

2011-12-31T16:24:00.001+01:00

It has been a long year. 2011 held some surprises. Some good but mostly distressing. I’m glad that this year has finally come to an end. I won’t be reflecting too much on 2011 tonight. Those that read my blog regularly know that the past two years have been a challenge but I can finally close this chapter of my life. The good that has come out of it, I’ve become more enriched than I was before. I’ll use everything I’ve gotten from my experiences, everything I’ve learned to enrich the new year.

My resolution for 2012 – live a life filled with gratitude. When we choose to focus on the things we appreciate in life, we feel like we have more. We enjoy what we have more, and we tend to spread these good feelings to others, which can make our relationships more positive—another thing that ultimately benefits us.

"The only thing that limits you is the belief that you can be limited" ~♥~ Shari Alyse

Happy 2012

“Another fresh new year is here . . . another year to live! To banish worry, doubt, and fear, to love and laugh and give! This bright new year is given me to live each day with zest . . . to daily grow and try to be my highest and my best! I have the opportunity once more to right some wrongs, to pray for peace, to plant a tree, and sing more joyful songs.” ~ William Arthur Ward (1921-1994)

New camera

2011-12-30T07:15:00.001+01:00

I bought myself a new camera. I got an upgrade to the Canon Powershot SX120 IS.Sadly, it seems that my shiny new camera seems to have fallen off Santa's sleigh somewhere between here and the North pole. Truth of the matter. It seems to be a very popular camera and Canon is having a hard time keeping up with the demand. So I have to wait patiently till it arrives. In the mean time I will have to contain myself looking at pictures of this device. I could also visit my BIL, as his has already arrived. It is a little bit bigger than my current one!!

Can’t wait to take pictures with her. I’m sure I’m going to love my new camera.

De Haan & Wagenmakers

2011-12-29T06:56:00.000+01:00

Had a lovely shopping spree yesterday with Mirjam. Mirjam needed to find fabric for the backing of her Medallion Sampler quilt. See the picture of me with her quilt? It is awesome isn’t it? See middle picture in the top row

I was able to contain myself. I only bought 10 fat quarters for the Dear Jane.

Christmas 2011

2011-12-28T15:30:00.000+01:00

A little peek at my Christmas

The turkey

The Pavlova

Me and Teddy

Hope your Christmas was just as good as mine.

Had to share

2011-12-25T07:57:00.001+01:00

PS - The Christmas Story' (2010), as told by the children of St Paul's Church, Auckland, New Zealand. Anyone is welcome to show this film publicly, but not change it in any way, nor make money out of it.

Attitude for Gratitude post – last post for 2011

2011-12-24T07:16:00.001+01:00

I’m tickled with anticipation. Tonight it is Christmas eve and Hubby and I will exchange our presents. Ooops, I mean unpacking the presents that Santa left behind. Feeling all cheery as - I did, I did, I really did see ……. Santa Clause. You gotta believe me. You just gotta believe me!

I heard this song for the first time when I was about 9 years old. It triggers a lot of memories, I can tell you. How old were you when you first heard it? Do you still remember where you were? I do!

Another influence is Dr. Seuss. It is really too bad that his children’s books haven’t been translated to Dutch. Or have they? Don’t you love this quote? An insight I’m finally understanding.

“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind.” ~ dr Seuss

Had a very busy pre-Christmas week. All the activities however were not Christmas related accept the grocery shopping. Enraptured that we ~~caught~~ bought our turkey. It isn’t as huge as the one we had last year! Got all the ingredients for the stuffing and trimmings. Naturally, we won’t pass on the Pavlova, a delicious Australian dessert.

Here’s to the year that’s almost past its expiration date. Grateful for all that I learned this year and that I pulled through. Thankful for those who believed in me & encouraged me to believe in myself.

Joyous for this time in the morning. Sitting behind my PC with my granulated coffee writing this post. Very pleased that I’m still losing some of my excess luggage (weight). A little surprised that this actually works, as it goes against all that I have learned and believe. For those who don’t read my blog regularly I’m following a diet based on Chinese herbal medicine and having weekly acupuncture sessions. I’m starting to believe I might actually look different next year.

Thankful that I’m happy again and able to accept that you can’t feel happiness 24/7.

I’m exultant with the opportunities this new job gives me. Meeting a lot of people who I otherwise would never have met.

Chuffed that this year is coming to an end but first let it be Christmas.

Christmas

2011-12-23T16:14:00.001+01:00

Absolutely love this…..

“And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled 'till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.” ~ Theodor Seuss Geisel

Love Christmas.

My present to you!

may you have …

Joy and let it fill your heart;

Hope, to fill your mind of all the possibilities;

Faith, so that you know everything will turn out perfectly.

Attitude for Gratitude post – week 50

2011-12-18T17:35:00.001+01:00

Absolutely delighted with the help I got from hubby with my secret project. I’m really sorry that I can’t write more about my secret project. The only thing I can say at the moment is that I’m undergoing another change.

‘Sometimes it’s the smallest decisions that can change your life forever’ ~ Keri Russell. I’m kind of hoping that this will be true. As I realize that ‘what you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others’ ~ Pericles. My ambition is to leave behind more, not just in the form of my personal notes (blog), (research) articles, quilts, and photography to name just a few. But most important is to have a personal impact on the people around me. I want to be valued for who I am and appreciated for what I have to give. Sadly I sometimes surround myself with people who have other values and morals. I believe ‘the unexamined life is not worth living’~ Socrates. I love people who have developed their reflective faculties. Who are able to act, compare, abstract, judge, generalize & reason. People who understand themselves and their place in our world. Yes, I’m also feeling a little dolorous this week.

Tickled by all the compliments on my photography. I think I might try to develop my other creative outlet. I’m even thinking of getting a better camera.

Still pretty ecstatic about the weight loss that is happening. Already lost 4 kilos! Hoping for another kilo next week.

Delighted with my hairdresser and my hair cut. Again she did a wonderful job.

Feeling very buoyant after meeting up with two very inspirational people last week. They have influenced my state of mind in a positive way. Absolutely loved our conversations and can’t wait to continue where we have left.

Jubilant after our enjoyable meal Saturday night, as I had no weight gain when I weighed myself this morning. We had a night-out to celebrate MIL’s birthday. The meal was delicious. The festive season has really started. Friday evening was another night out, I had Christmas dinner with my colleagues.

I’m beaming as I’m finally allowed to show this quilt that a quilter friend made for her sister. Isn’t it stunning? Would really love to receive a quilt like that. Wouldn’t it look lovely near the Christmas tree? Marja’s sister is one lucky gal.

This week I picked-up the cards that I will be sending to my family and friends to celebrate 2012. I’m pretty rapt with the result. With all the hustle and bustle past weeks I’ve decided not to send Christmas cards, but send Happy New Year cards instead.

Completely blithesome knowing that we are going to Wales again this summer. Katrina confirmed our booking this week. Northern Wales is the place for me, and thankfully hubby loves it too. Actually, it was he who suggested it. Our first thoughts were to go to Scotland. I’m so happy to go. Wales feels like home.

Last but not least – I’m thankful that I was able to get a body-massage this week. It is so relaxing and it helps me on so many levels. Had a dr. Hauschka body-massage. Really can’t wait till the next one. Lucky me, I already booked another one for January!

a quickie post!

2011-12-16T07:03:00.001+01:00

Last Monday we worked again on our Dear Janes, or at least so I thought. The blocks of the two other quilters looked so different to the one I was making, but I was sure this was the evening for the Janiac bee! For a moment I thought I had lost my mind and gone crazy. According to Juud & Berna they did this on purpose so that I could catch up. Aren’t they sweet?

It kind of looks similar but it isn’t. It is a Farmer’s wife block.

This doesn’t look like a Dear Jane block, much too big!!!!

This is a dear Jane block. It is E-7 ~ Bread Basket. All the pieces are laid out.

Inside block. It is tiny, isn’t it?

Inside row. E-7 nears completion.

Oh no, the quilters paparazzi.

Attitude for gratitude post – week 49

2011-12-11T17:31:00.001+01:00

Christmas… that magic blanket that wraps itself about us, that something so intangible that it is like a fragrance. It may weave a spell of nostalgia. Christmas may be a day of feasting, or of prayer, but always it will be a day of remembrance -- a day in which we think of everything we have ever loved. ~ Augusta E. Rundel

Feeling very jolly after finally putting out the Christmas decorations and putting up the tree. Look who is looking absolutely stunned. Teddy, still can’t believe that it is nearly Christmas.

Delighted that hubby helped me put in the lights. I’m also thankful for all the wrapped presents laying underneath our Christmas tree.

Very pleased that I was able to find time to be Santa’s helper this year. I found lots of nice little presents. I need only to find one more and than I’m done!

Cheery, when realizing I didn’t have to stand in the cold at a alpaca show like my sister. Hoping she met up with lots of new customers. Check-out her site, here.

A little merry, as I just ordered Michael Bublé’s Christmas CD.

I couldn’t wait till Christmas!! It was really hard to resist temptation, especially after hearing some of the song. But I’m so happy that I could buy this for myself and thankful that I’m in that position.

Elated, after having a full week of quilt activities. But thankful, that the pace is slowing down a little.

Exuberant as the acupuncture and diet combination seems to be working. Actually losing weight according to my weighing scale! But most of all I’m absolutely delighted that I feel so much better. Looks like I finally got a grip on my fluid retention.

Still very tickled with my new attic window. It was a great afternoon updating my blog with all that extra light.

Last but not least, I’m thankful for feeling appreciated by so many people and colleagues. Sadly, not everyone realizes this but ‘the deepest craving of human nature is the need to be appreciated. ~ WIlliam James’

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas – also at our home!!

2011-12-11T15:05:00.001+01:00

I would have loved to have heard this CD while putting up the decorations. I’m sure that would bring me into a festive mood. I’m kind of hoping that Santa’s helper will put this in my Christmas stocking. Maybe I’ll help Santa .

This year no Christmas lights outside! Because there is some thing wrong with the wiring in the backyard. A fuse blew last week, actually twice, and there we were sitting in the dark (inside our own home). The electronics outside has been disconnected, till an electrician can come along and fix it. So, this year to get that Christmas feeling you need to visit us inside.

I’m a little later than usual. Usually, I have everything up on the first of December. I absolutely love Christmas. It makes me merry, it gives me joy. Sadly, I’m still not in the mood, how hard I try. My mind keeps sending mixed signals. I’m convinced it is still summer. Having a real hard time to imagine that it is winter and that it is nearly Christmas. But I will keep on trying!!! I’m sure by the time it is Christmas day, I’ll be in the mood.

Annual Christmas Bee

2011-12-10T14:33:00.000+01:00

Saturday morning around 10.30 am off I went to Putten. At one of the quilters from my old FIETS-groep, the annual Christmas bee was been held. It is always nice to drive down the country roads. Sadly, no views like this.

Last year we had a lot of snow but this year it is only grey & wet.

Had a lovely time. Everyone worked on the little gift kit we got. As I still need to do a lot on my ‘twas the night before Christmas quilt, I decided to work on this stitchery.

Love red, it leaves you feeling warm. Love Christmas time.

Bargello workshop

2011-12-09T14:17:00.000+01:00

Thursday evening I had two things planned. The Bargello workshop & a leg-wax at my beautician. I didn’t want to cancel my appointment with the beautician, so I popped-out for 3/4 of an hour. As it happens, my beautician is only around the corner from the Quilt cellar.

Fixed the mistake I had made while laying-out the strips during the night before. Do you recognize my quilt? The other quilters are making some beautiful Bargellos. But they all look so different. I think I’m the only one making a big quilt. Still need to cut more strips to get an 150x150 quilt. It will become a little bigger once I’ve added the border. Funny how lighting can give an different impression. These are de fabrics I’m using in the Bargello. Soft pastels. Prominent colours: green, pink, red and cream.

Thursday night was the last workshop. I now have to finish the quilt at my own pace!!

Fiets-groep (bicycle group??)

2011-12-08T14:13:00.000+01:00

Wednesday night was our monthly ‘Fiets-groep’. Everyone can take their own projects with them and if necessary they can get assistance from Aagje, our teacher.

I took my Bargello quilt. I’m a little behind and thought it wise to do some more cutting while I had the chance. Do we see a little pattern here? It is always me who’s lagging a little behind. But then I have to remember:

Success is a journey, not a destination. The doing is often more important than the outcome. ~ Arthur Ashe

I like my new group! But I love my new night. Prefer Wednesdays to Thursdays.

Attitude for gratitude – week 48

2011-12-04T13:24:00.001+01:00

Oh my, how the weeks are flying past. In 4 more weeks it will be 2012. I so looking forward to 2012. It feels like a new beginning. I can finally shut the door on 2010 & 2011. These two years have definitely been a challenge and to be truthful I would have loved to have skipped them. Although that isn’t whole truth, I’ve learned so much and I’m convinced that I wouldn’t have learned these lessons if I didn’t need to reassess myself and the world around me. I’ve changed because of this experience. Some people are noticing the change and aren’t always happy about it. The change doesn’t serve them well and they voice their opinions sometimes a little too loudly. Lucky for me, I’ve become selectively deaf. I can ignore the negative energy.

I’m grateful for the bodily effect I’m noticing. After only two weeks, my blood pressure is back to normal. I also seem to have less fluid retention. I feel so much lighter and less out-of-breath (this doesn’t mean I’ve lost a lot of weight however). My GP is not happy with my choice, that I’ve chosen to go to a acupuncturist. The therapy is working. Next to the acupuncture, I’m also on a diet. I’m detoxifying! I’ve been introduced to some new foods, some were really hard to get. I’m pleased that I’ve survived this past week. It was a challenge, but I stuck to it. I’m missing my coffee however terribly!!! But not feeling hungry at all, which surprises me terribly.

I had a surprise visit by ‘Sinterklaas’. Friday I found a ‘chocolade letter & gedicht’ (= Chocolate bar & poem). I hadn’t expected this, so as you can imagine I’m tickled.

The time has finally come that I got my stored winter clothes from the attic and packed my summer clothes. I’m still not feeling it. I know it is winter, but in mind it is still summer. If you go by the temperature at the moment, you would understand. On average it is about 10 °C. But I’m finally prepared. “So winter you can come”

Feeling all jolly after my visit to my mum yesterday. As usual we went to Germany to do some shopping. At this store I’m usually very successful. Exuberant, after our spree through the furniture store in Groningen. My mum will soon be the owner of a new sofa and two armchairs. She will have to wait a while before she can enjoy them. They have to be made now.

It was a little rainy in northern Germany. But we didn’t let it dispirit us. It is starting to look a little like Christmas.

Jubilant, after getting my car back earlier than I thought. Monday I got a phone call that I wasn’t allowed to drive my car any further. They picked it up from the office and but it on a trailer. While going through their daily check Monday morning, they found out they had put the wrong brake fluid in my car. It seems to be quite dangerous. I never knew! They cleaned the whole brake system and gave my car back a day later. Had to drive in one of these:

It put a smile on my face. It was a fun car to drive for a day.

Monday night DJ mini bee

2011-12-04T10:02:00.001+01:00

Some of you most probably have read it some where, but Monday night has become a regular Dear Jane night for me. It is lots of fun and I’m making a little more progress than I would have made otherwise. Why is it fun, just to listen to the chatter of Juud & Berna is a happening in itself. The other reason, it just might be possible that I finish two baby Janes’ a month!!

I think the festive season might cause a little problem in the new routine, but I’m sure we will pick-up the pace in 2012.

I definitely need to get an iPad!! Hoping that Santa reads this blog.It is becoming a trend to go to blogs of other quilters during the bee: to get inspiration, to admire other works, and to dream. I need one! I don’t want to be the last one to join this hype!!!!

It seems I definitely have problems with counting. I needed 16 E pieces for this block. You can guess what happens when I lay-out all the pieces, I’m short 4 pieces . Went home with a little homework.

Do you think I also need to train my brain a little more? Is this the first signs of aging? I’ll check if there are any apps out there to slow the process .

Packing to go home

2011-11-28T09:20:00.000+01:00

I still have some pictures to share with you!! Packing to go home. I’m sure everything will fit. It has to fit.

All packed! The suitcase felt pretty heavy. Didn’t know yet that I would be charged for the extra weight!

Taking a break. Working on a stitchery. Do you recognize the pattern?

Waiting in the lobby to be picked-up by the Shuttle.

The below-ground Inter-Terminal Train at Houston airport.

Cool! Such a quaint little train.

I used Hipstamatic app to make the above pictures. Not bad.

You will have to imagine me up above the skies. I’m sure this is what it looked like, before we hit the turbulence

Landed Monday afternoon 8th of November in Amsterdam at 1pm after a 10-hour flight.

Attitude of Gratitude post is back !! – week 47

2011-11-27T13:06:00.001+01:00

Yes, I’m back after a 4 week break.

Early on my spiritual journey, I focussed on bringing more grace into my life and how powerful this intention has been.

I affirm my goal to be grateful every day. Throughout the day, I'm open and receptive to the power of grace in my life. I ask to be shown clear examples of how this energy is operating. You could say this is my mantra. In the past months I’m noticing certain coincidences / changes / examples occurring and I’m pretty convinced that I’m (co-)creating my (transformed) life. It seems I’m entering into "the dance of grace". Could you describe this as spiritual growth? Or is this "being in the moment"? I’m more aware of my bodily sensations, thoughts and emotions—no matter whether they are pleasant or unpleasant—I’ve finally got my control back.

When you are in a sincere state of gratitude your energy is one of acceptance and harmony. What is important is to accept/take responsibility for whatever is going on in your life. You attitude towards gratitude is the key to joy.

Remember that joy—doesn't always announce itself with great fanfare. It can hum, quietly, underneath.

I’m grateful for the following:

- noticing that dreams might become true. (I’m not quit prepared to share my dream – new life goal – but I’m sensing it might not be a dream for much longer). “Don't be afraid of the space between your dreams and reality. If you can dream it, you can make it so.” ~ Belva Davis. This might be more true than I have ever realized. Scary stuff!

- the new attic window in my study. I’m thankful for the fact I’m able to pay for it.

- having pleasure with the other janiacs.

- that hubby is installing my coupe heater in the car. He was very creative in finding a solution to install it in this car. The VW Passat definitely isn’t as superior as the Nissan Qashqai. I’ll be prepared for the snow & frost that might be coming soon.

- that I was able to get my blood pressure down and control the fluid retention. I feel so much better. The acupuncture therapy seems to be having an effect too.

- thoroughly enjoying my new work place.

- realizing that the people in my life are the attribution of my joy. I’ve surrounded myself with people (family, friends, virtual-friends & colleagues) who enable me to change and be joyful.

- having my ringtone back. Picking up my iPhone has become a pleasure.

- the small MOLESKINE® squared notebook I found. I can jot down little snippets of importance. I’m ecstatic!

- 2011 seems to be ending a lot better than how it started. I only wish this could be true for everyone. Realizing that this is not so, saddens me. I hope you can find the power to change your life.

Movies!

2011-11-27T09:15:00.001+01:00

Another flashback to my Houston adventure. Funny as time passes – the adventures & new memories – become grander. I feel a joy when I look back upon my trip. Although it seems so quintessentially a phenomenon of presentness, joy can just as immediately seem retrospective, like something from childhood you'd thought was irretrievably lost. This is why joy so often feels like a return, like a reclaiming or redemption. Lifeclasses – Oprah.

The flight back home went a lot quicker and that was partly due to the fact that I watched three movies!!!

The first film – Midnight in Paris

A strange film, but I loved the little snippets into the past. Meeting Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, T.S. Eliot, Cole Porter, F.Scott Fitzgerald, Hemingway, Paul Gauguin even Salvador Dali. Kathy Bates, actress, was great as usual.

I choose - Bridemaids - next.

This was a little disappointing, but I managed to watch it to the end. Kristen Wiig, actress, reminds me of Meg Ryan. Do you too?

And after this film I choose - the Help. This simply blew my mind. I even cried, with all those people sitting around me.

I'm a proper brought up lady, I don't cry or show much emotion in public! But this film touched my heart. Do you know how hard it is not to look like you are crying, when you can hardly control the tears running down your face and your throat is all dry, that you can hardly swallow? I had to put the film on pause to walk to the back galley kitchen for some water.

The film is about an aspiring author during the civil rights movement of the 1960's who decides to write a book detailing the African-American maid's point of view on the white families for which they work, and the hardships they go through on a daily basis. Love the quote - change begins with a whisper. I think this is so true.

I don’t think you have to book a flight to watch these movies. A nice wintery afternoon with winds blowing around the house and temperatures at a nice low – would be a great moment too.

After watch The Help, I thought I would do a little reading. Sadly, at that time we hit some turbulence. Those that were sleeping were awake very quickly. The pilot announced that this might take a while. Boy, I was happy to hear that. I think we had a bumpy ride for nearly 3/4 of an hour. I would have loved to have had the ‘flight buddy’ app, that forecasts turbulence. My motto: Better prepared than sorry. It is really amazing what kind of apps you can get these days. But back to the subject. I think I handled myself pretty well. But would have loved to have given this a miss.

Hope I’ve convinced you to watch these movies.

A room full of Janiacs

2011-11-26T17:11:00.001+01:00

It is hard to imagine that you can have a room full of Janiacs. Still, have to admit there was one SBS-er (=Sylvia’s Bridal Sampler) between the Janiacs.

This time it was my turn to organize the Dear Jane circle. I must say, it is worth your effort. Look at this beautifully filled vase I got.

I was even able to complete a baby Jane block.

One more block to go and I will have completed my second trip!!! I’ll definitely start adding the sashings than. It looks like I might be increasing my pace. It is our intention to reserve one evening a week for the Dear Jane.

I had a great Saturday with the other Janiacs.

2 BOM’s for 2012

2011-11-25T20:36:00.001+01:00

Before I knew what I had done, I had signed up for two Block of the Month programs.

I’m going to make The Spirit of Sacagawea quilt, which you can join too as a Block Of The Month with Kansas City Star. The quilt is designed by Minick and Simpson. Visit their blog here.

I absolutely love it! I think it is stunning. Especially the story behind it really triggers the need to want to make this. It symbolizes freedom, empowerment, journey of transformation, spirituality and independence for me. When I look at it, I feel joy.

Came across this video on my search for more information about Sacagawea. I think I will be watching this video during the Christmas holidays and New Years break.

Just checked wikipedia . If memory serves me right, I remember hearing about her when I was at the American International School in Athens, Greece, around 1971. Indian culture and history has always fascinated me. I’m sure my mum still has some books that I bought during my teens at her house on this topic.

The other BOM is the Civil War Journals that Dutch Quilts, Den Haan & Wagenmakers, is organizing.

I’ll be getting a parcel every month with Judie Rothermel fabrics and hopefully once all the blocks have been put together it will look something like the quilt above. As you know, the American Civil War is another fascination. Absolutely love the civil war repro-fabrics.

I now only need to do a time-management course to learn to juggle my time. I never seem to have enough! It isn’t always easy to manage a professional career and a creative pastime.

What intentions do you have for 2012?

May there be more light……

2011-11-24T20:23:00.001+01:00

Before

Realisation

After

I’m surprised what a difference it make. Love the extra light.

I wonder who will notice the cookies and large coffee in my International Quilt Festival mug

Slot (castle) Zeist

2011-11-20T18:11:00.001+01:00

I met up with a friend this afternoon. Had a lovely afternoon. It is always great to catch-up on all the goings-on and realize how much you are alike. We first walked through the park around the castle. The fog was so thick you hardly could see anything at a distance further than 50 metres. But I was able to take some lovely photos. It is strange to notice it is becoming winter, when in your mind you still think it is summer.

But it is the little things that remind you that it really is becoming winter: it is only 5 degrees outside, in 34 days it is Christmas, and at 5 pm it is really dark outside.

Working on the Bargello!

2011-11-20T17:54:00.001+01:00

Got my homework done!! I’m ready for Wednesday night.

Goodies from Houston

2011-11-20T17:47:00.001+01:00

This is what I got in Houston.

Yes, my own Baby Go from AccuQuilt. I got a great deal when I bought the Baby Welcome Home Set! This lovely lady in the picture underneath helped me. Got a strip cutter die, the value die and tumbler die. Naturally a long and small cutting mats. As you can imagine I took a heavy load home!

Someone already warned me that the Baby Go! might give me some trouble at the airport. Well all alarms went off when the Baby Go went through the imaging machine. I can truly say I experienced the new TSA Screening Procedures first hand. I got a lot of personal attention. I had to unpack all my hand luggage and had to explain what the Baby Go does. Than I got a full body pat-down. And they kept on apologizing for all the bother. And, I kept on repeating myself that I really didn’t mind. I told them, if they checked everyone this thoroughly, I’m sure we will encounter less criminal activities in the air. I think I was held-up for nearly 30 minutes .

My trip home certainly wasn’t uneventful. I also go dropped off at the wrong terminal. So had to take a little ride on the Inter-Terminal Train below-ground. Did you know that Bush Intercontinental Airport consists of five passenger terminals? The driver who dropped me off, didn’t! A little extra excitement never hurts. I’ve got a story to tell.

When checking in, the ground stewardess told me I had to pay extra as my luggage exceeded the allowed weight. Who would have thought. I only had 11 kilo’s with me when I entered the country. I guess it was due to these books!!!

I quit sure it was not because of the items below. They don’t weigh much, I’m sure.

Love my new rotating mat. The ThimblePad’s were a tip of one of my teachers, Terri Burton. I loved them so much I got three packets.

I might not plan another trip to Houston soon, I sure loved the adventure. There are so many other quilt festivals I would also love to visit. Who knows which one I will visit next.

A meditative moment.

2011-11-15T06:36:00.001+01:00

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My first Bargello

2011-11-13T16:25:00.001+01:00

I’m doing a 3 day workshop to learn and make my own Bargello quilt. It is going to be a 150x150 lap quilt for the lounge chair in my study. I went to Houston and hoped to find some lovely Jelly Rolls. Sadly, even after walking over the market 3 times I was unable to find any Jelly Rolls. I really expected to find them. I was also hoping to find some 30’s repro fat-quarters. I came home empty handed! To be truthful, there were not many booths that sold fabric. Lucky for me, I found these fabrics at my local quiltshop! The colours match my lounge chair.

Love the Bargello pattern in this book. But I won’t be making this one. I’ve decided to keep it nice and simple.

Here is me cutting lots of strips. As you can see the other ladies are doing the same.

According to our teacher, you create colour runs by sewing strips of the different colours together horizontally. Once we have pieced the strips together, we cut vertical strips from them in different widths to create the curve. If all goes well we will end up with blocks of each fabric that are all the same height across the entire quilt, but in varying widths. I have a fortnight to sew 8 panels, which contain 9 strips of fabric. The funny thing is,

as mentioned previously, we will be cutting up those panels to make strips again, in the next class. Only the strips we end up with varying in width. We are supposed to end up with something looking like this once we join all the strips.

The name originates from a series of chairs found in the Bargello Palace in Florence, Italy, which have a "flame stitch" pattern. Originally, bargello was a type of needlepoint embroidery consisting of upright flat stitches laid in a mathematical pattern to create motifs. In addition to bargello embroidery, there are now Bargello quilts in which the patterns used in Bargello embroidery are constructed with strips of fabric of the same height but different widths. The style is classified by its gradated curves and points flowing through the design. The simplest bargello designs, are simple curves or waves that repeat in different colours and patterns.Bargello quilting is strip-piecing, plain and simple. I think I like the sound of that.

Will keep you updated.

a slideshow of my visit to Houston

2011-11-13T15:00:00.001+01:00

Watching this slide show will give you a better impression of my visit to Houston & the International Quilt Festival.

International Quilt Festival - Houston

2011-11-13T13:52:00.001+01:00

Where are all the people???Love this picture. This depicts the States for me. And, how about this view of the cabby? Don’t you just love it?

I’ve been back for a couple of days but it took me a while to get back into my old rhythm. When I arrived back in Amsterdam, I have to admit I was a little worse for wear. My legs really hurt & I was slightly out of breath even after mild exertion. I have to admit I had some fluid retention. Was it because of my stay in Houston or was it due to the flying? After two days I went to my GP and sadly I was told my blood pressure had also sky rocketed. Houston, we have a problem! Causes include the body's reaction to hot & humid weather, a high salt intake, gravity, weakened valves and the hormones associated with the menstrual cycle. Guess too many of the above causes, resulted in my complaints. My medication has been altered but also have to try to drink lots more water and reduce my salt intake even further as well as my coffee, and I have to get back into my exercise routine. Sitting or standing for long periods doesn’t agree with me. So now you understand why this is my first post. Hopefully you will also understand why the frequency of my posts will remain a little low for a while.

I loved my visit and absolutely had the greatest time. But I also have to admit, after hearing all those praises, I’m a little disappointed. The international Quilt Festival didn’t meet-up with my expectations.

Loved these quilts.

But especially this one.

I thoroughly enjoyed myself at the Quilters’S.O.S. – Save Our Stories, booth in the mornings.

It was great to get back into interviewing and the interviewees were absolutely awesome. I did a little more than planned, which was great. Got the book signed by the quiltmakers who I interviewed. Will show you that an other time.

I followed 3 awesome classes. The first class was The 3 B’s - Borders, Batting & binding, given by Terri Burton. Here is an impression. If you have a chance to sign-up for her class, please do this. She teaches really well.

My next class was Friday evening this was given by Cindy Blackberg. We learned how to make little hexagons with the stamp. I really like the Mini Grandmother's Flower Garden doll quilt. Met two lovely ladies from near Seattle. Sadly, didn’t exchange our names & contact information. So if anyone knows these ladies, please contact me.

On Saturday I followed the Embroidery for quilters class, that was given by Debbie Gordon. I really learned a lot during this class. Didn’t know that there were so many different threads for embroidery. Also learned some stitching patterns and finally mastered the satin stitch.

My room on the 28th floor!!! I stayed in room 2831.

Hyatt Regency, lobby

Elevators! They had 8.

view of Einstein Bros in the lobby. Had to go through this shop everyday to get to the bus stop.

Hope you enjoyed my impression of my visit to the quilt festival in Houston.

Attitude for Gratitude post – week 43

2011-10-30T10:26:00.001+01:00

The most meaningful thing that happened this week for which I’m super grateful is that my contract has been extended for an indefinite period. It gives me a sense of security, which I need to focus on all those other things / goals I want to achieve / attain. I discovered a new genre of dancing Tuesday morning upon receiving the news. It is called the happy dance! Like the way I move ?

Hopefully this clip put a smile on your face.

I’m pretty satisfied with myself after finally finalising a article that I’ve written with some ex-colleagues. I submitted it Saturday. Hope to hear from the reviewer soon. To ensure my English was up to scratch I asked an English friend to look over it. This is what she said, ‘excellent stuff, it is astounding how good your English is, like I have said, you put most Brits to shame. Bravo’. This makes me euphoric. Thank you for those kind words. I’m ever so grateful, as I can ignore the little voice in my head, saying ‘your not good enough’.

I’m thankful to be able to enjoy these sights.

I get all happy when I see these roses on the dining table.

Delighted to let everyone know that I got my first pair of reading glasses yesterday! I’ll be able to pick them up after I get back from Houston. My first senior moment has finally arrived .

I’m trilled that in two days time I will go to Houston and finally meet- up with Amy, executive director of the Alliance for American Quilts, and the rest of the Q.S.O.S team, Linda from Quilts in The Barn and Laura from Laura’s Quilt Atelier in Amersfoort. Click here to read her blog.

Next week Sunday I won’t be posting my weekly gratitude post. But you can be assured I’m pretty grateful for the life I’m able to lead at the moment. It can’t get any better.

Meditative moment

2011-10-25T08:34:00.001+02:00

It is neither wealth nor splendour; but tranquillity and occupation which give you happiness. ~ Thomas Jefferson

No ‘gratitude post’ for week 42

2011-10-23T16:11:00.001+02:00

Feeling a little under the weather today. My brain hurts and feeling a little nausea. It is too hard to verbalise my thoughts. So I’ve decided to give my brain a little rest. Really need to learn to pace myself a little better.

I’m grateful that I can finally allow myself a little ‘me’ time and not feel guilty.

Being crafty

2011-10-22T18:39:00.001+02:00

Today I had a Tilda doll-making workshop in Putten in the Quilt Cellar. Finally going to learn how to make those wonderful Tilda dolls. Do check-out Tone Finnanger’s website, here. I thought it would be easy and was pretty convinced I would go home in the afternoon with this Christmas man. He is so cute!

But this is all I had with me at the end of the day. Two arms and two legs!! The body still needs to be stuffed. And, I still have to cut out his coat and pants.

Coming Wednesday, I can continue with this WIP. Here is me working hard today! Getting lots of assistance. I was really having trouble concentrating and remembering the instructions. I must have left my brain at home!

Here is a collage of the other ladies who attended this class.

Had a smashing time. However, my back is hurting a little at the moment. I should mind my sitting posture more. It would be really nice to get a massage at the moment, but sadly have to wait another two and half weeks!

The adventures of the Tilda Christmas man will continue.

Attitude of gratitude is everything – week 41

2011-10-16T17:30:00.001+02:00

The weeks are flying past! Why does time fly when you are happy and time goes slow when you are not? It is hard to imagine that this time last year I was searching for an answer to the question: what do I want to be when I grow up, what makes me happy, what am I truly searching for and why am I not moving! What is holding me back? I felt lost and was very unhappy. Funny how a change of scene can put everything in a different perspective. It is hard to remember how I struggled.

I am grateful that I can set things in motion. I’m even more grateful that I’ve found my place at work. It is really true that the single most efficient way to increase your productivity is to be happy at work. Happy people work better with others. Happy people are more creative. Happy people fix problems. Happy people have more energy. Happy people are more optimistic. Happy people are way more motivated. Happy people learn faster. It is really true, choose a job that makes you go…

The new company I work for allows room for both positive and negative emotions. It also allows room for spirituality. As a result, people are happy at work. I’m grateful that I decided to follow my heart when accepting this job offer, instead of choosing rationally. I didn’t base my decision on the salary, titles, perks and status.

‘’… social scientific research has largely confirmed the thesis that affect, attitudes, beliefs and behaviour can indeed spread through populations as if they were somehow infectious.’ This is also true for the workplace. Through experience I’ve learned to spend lots of time hanging around "happy people" and keeping my distance from "deeply unhappy" people. ‘….negative emotions exert a more powerful effect in social situations than positive ones, thanks to the phenomena of emotional contagion.’

I’m joyful that I could swap my regular yoga evening to another night. I’m absolutely blissful that I’m getting some extra light in my study! Yes, getting an extra roof window real soon, if it doesn’t rain coming Thursday. Pretty gratified after our shopping spree Saturday in Moers, Germany. It was fun shopping with my mum and MIL, especially on such a sunny autumn day. Smiling after hearing that I will get winter tyres for my car. Will be able to drive all those miles on cold and slippery roads because of rain, frost or snow and experiencing little stress. Still feeling pretty tickled after my phone call from my boss. But I’m most grateful for the feeling of elation nearly all this week.

"Be the change that you want to see in the world." ~ Ghandi

Walk the talk – show your attitude for gratitude!

flight socks!

2011-10-16T15:57:00.001+02:00

Sitting still for long periods of time in cramped conditions can lead to swollen ankles and occasionally DVT (=Deep Vein Thrombosis). As I’m sometimes afflicted with swollen ankles even when I’m not flying, I thought I should get myself some of these.

Don’t they look charming? But flight socks can help prevent:

Risk of circulatory problems such as DVT (blood clots)
Helps prevent swollen ankles and tired legs on long haul flights
Improve blood circulation

Practicing self-care before and during my flight can go a long way toward ensuring that my ankles and feet swelling doesn’t spoil my vacation to Houston. Swollen ankles and feet are most likely the result of the accumulation of fluid building up in my body during the flight.

Preventive measures:

Regular stretching and mobility exercises and short walks around the cabin during the flight if possible.
Drinking sufficient fluids to keep the urine pale.
Taking a low dose aspirin tablet (75mg) for its anti-adhesive effects on blood platelets.

The use of compression stockings.
Wearing loose-fitting clothing

So if you happen to see me walking by, you now know why. As I need to drink lots of fluids (water), I’ll therefore will be going to the loo (toilet) a lot!! My was to kill two birds with one stone. Resolving two matters with a single action. I also get a little exercise! So guess who will be getting an aisle seat? This seat enables me to walk up and down the aisle for exercise and going to the loo (toilet) without disturbing others.

Another 15 more sleeps and I’ll be going to Houston!!

Photinia fraseri 'Red Robin'

2011-10-12T17:42:00.001+02:00

Just ordered two of these.The stem is 1.80 tall and the top of the tree is about a meter wide. But it will take a little while before it will look like this. One will be planted on the left side of our backyard and the other one on the right side. I choose the Photinia because it keeps its leaves in the winter. It is a evergreen tree with glossy bright red young growth and white flowers in spring .

The gardener wouldn’t except my order by phone so I drove to our local garden centre. Checked out the trees in pouring rain. Can you imagine me in high heels and skirt trying to jump puddles?

They will be delivered in two weeks time. Expect some pictures of men in trees. Hubby and a mate of his, will be digging out numerous of trees. Some will be replanted and others will be replaced by these two. Can’t wait to see how the backyard will look. If you have any suggestions for scrubs that can be planted underneath, that can handle shade and moist, I would love to hear from you.

The trees will be delivered at 8am! Don’t quit know how I’m going to prepare hubby for this news. He is not a morning person, especially in weekends he likes to sleep in. While the guys are working hard in the garden, I will be interviewing quiltmakers in Houston.

Run away to Houston with me and volunteer for team Q.S.O.S. Full information on the AAQ website, here

swapped evening!

2011-10-12T07:30:00.001+02:00

Meditative moment is Wednesday this week.

“Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else's life. Don’t be trapped by dogma - which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of other’s opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.” ~ Steve Jobs (1955-2011)

Gratitude post – week 40

2011-10-09T11:00:00.001+02:00

Grace is completely free! "Grace, the state of kindness and favour towards someone, often with a focus on a benefit given to the object." I personally see grace as the ultimate key required for spiritual self-realization. I find grace throughout the day. Trying to understand the Tao helps me find grace. I’m also intrigued by the philosophical aspects of Tao (or Dao), or to be more precise, the natural and mercurial outcomes of action. Where every action creates counter-actions.

There are no days in life so memorable as those which vibrated to some stroke of the imagination ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

The power of repetitiveness amazes me. It is the engine that drives the ability to influence. The success of an influence can create transmittance of an idea. Two years ago I proposed that health insurers provide a policy to enable clients to save for future care needs. Today I read in my newspaper that health insurers are going to do that. Future patients when confronted with the outcome of their chronic disease, will be able to activate their personal budget that will enable them to get a nurse, hire a special bed or get a wheelchair. I’m sure I wasn’t the only one who thought of this idea, but if you voice your thoughts often enough eventually this leads to many counter-actions and it becomes reality.

I’m thankful for having found Emily, but especially her blog ‘Chatting at the sky, a place for your soul to breathe’. To be able to voice your thoughts like her. I applaud her style. But there is also recognition when I read some of her posts. Do check-out her blog, especially this post: change the world - receive grace. Absolutely awesome, if you want to know my opinion.

I’m joyous that my cash-flow enables me to buy a new bag and boots this week. I’m finally getting grips on my spending, now I’m out of debt.

Feeling rapturous the past couple of weeks. I’m enjoying my work again, but most of all I enjoy being part of this organization-environment. I’m so pleased to notice a change in me. I’m less effected by the opinions and needs of others. I feel more confident and capable. I have more control over my life and the decisions I make. I’m more resilient. Empowerment is far easier to write about than to achieve. But I think I’ve finally understand the principles of it and for this I’m grateful. There many qualities to empowerment: having decision-making power, having access to information and resources, having a range of options from which to make choices, assertiveness, a feeling that the individual can make a difference (being hopeful), learning to think critically; learning the conditioning; seeing things differently, learning about and expressing anger, not feeling alone; feeling part of a group, understanding that people have rights, affecting change in one's life and one's community, learning skills that the individual defines as important, changing others' perceptions of one's competency and capacity to act, coming out of the closet, growth and change that is never ending and self-initiated, increasing one's positive self-image and overcoming stigma. I’ve overcome the harmful impact of stigmatization. I’ve had to re-learn how to handle prejudice and discrimination, but I especially had to re-learn how to react to it. Overcoming these adversities has been an empowering process but I truly can say I’m now more resilient. But my biggest achievement is to allow myself to be me.

There are two great days in a person's life - the day we are born and the day we discover why ~ William Barclay

What to do with $1000?

2011-10-08T06:44:00.001+02:00

Well I’ll try to answer that question. It was Sweet P, from Coffee Times Stitches, who put this question in the world.

By the way Sweet P, a Happy birthday to you ♪♫•*¨*•.¸¸♥ ¸¸.•*¨*•♫♪

Firstly I will have to convert this amount to Euros. This leaves me with € 744.82. It is now real easy to answer this question. So many choices to make but I think I definitely want more light in my study! Now the winter is approaching slowly, the days are becoming shorter and the evenings longer in the Northern Hemisphere. Today sunrise will be at 7:53 and sunset 19:03. That is 11 hours and 9 minutes of light! At the moment while writing this post, it is real dark. I see no stars, no clouds, it is pitch dark outside my window.

But I’m evading in answering the question. I’m good at that .

Before I start rambling on why I do that, I will answer Sweet P’s question. I would spend an large amount on installing one of these. A roof window.

So when the sun comes up, I will hopefully catch the first ray’s on my desk.

With the money I have left, which won’t be much, I would spend on a Rhythmical Hauschka Massage. Two hours of bliss.

But than again, I kind of also want an iPad . I so love my iPhone that I have to admit I’m becoming an Apple fan. The iPad can sit on the dining table and I can read all those blogs there instead of behind my desktop computer in my study.

I was deeply saddened after reading that Steve Jobs died, last Wednesday, as I just started to appreciate Apple. I’m crazy about the iPhone4 and love my iPod Nano. Steve was indeed a visionary man but the reason I appreciate him the most was that he truly understood how applications should work. The iPhone is so easy and intuitive to use even I can use it.

I was saddened but not surprised. My diagnostic skills are still pretty good. I’m actually amazed that he was able to hang on to life so long.

There is so little one can say, but my heart goes out to his family and to those people he mentored. We really lost an insightful and visionary person.

New quilt circle

2011-10-07T19:05:00.001+02:00

Sometimes you need a little change. I’ve joined a new quilt circle (F.I.E.T.S.-groep) which is on a Wednesday night. We individually work on our own projects/works but it becomes a lot more fun because we do it together. And the bonus is, when you need assistance, Aagje is there to help.

I’m back working on my log cabin quilt. Haven’t made much progress during the summer months. Naturally, I thereforeI had some difficulty in getting started. Pfaffy refused to sew I forgot how to insert the bobbin correctly into the shuttle case!!! That is why practice, practice is so important.

I did remembered how to insert the bobbin in the case and that the thread runs in a clockwise direction .

But when inserting the bobbin into the shuttle, it just didn’t pop in.

It wouldn’t click, heard no click-sound and so Pfaffy refused to do what it is good at, sew. Lucky for me , Aagje was there to showed me (again) how to do it.

However I do have to admit that there is a definite ‘experience curve’ to be noted. But I need to concentrate and focus, but I have to admit this is a little difficult as the quilters in this group are real friendly ladies and chatter-boxes. I’m sure this will become a nice new experience as it is real ‘gezellig’ homey group.

Produced one block this evening! Can you believe it?

Got to know the quilters a little better especially the ladies on the left. Looking forward to the next quilt circle. Here is a picture of the quilters in my new circle.

The lady standing is Aagje, our teacher.

Naturally, there is always time for show & tell.

A bag.

A pillow under construction.

A quilt top nearly completed.

A bear wall hanging.

This will become a tea cosy.

This is becoming an art-quilt.

A beautiful big traditional quilt, partly quilted.

Last but not least, someone will be making this little quilt wall hanging. It is so Dutch! Love the pattern. Isn’t it cute?

Houston & Quilters' S.O.S. - Save Our Stories

2011-10-02T16:58:00.001+02:00

If you live near Houston, Texas, or you are going to the International Quilt Festival beginning of November, do get involved and participate in this project that has been organized by the Alliance for American Quilts.

Many volunteers are needed, and each one will have an important job to do! The AAQ needs folks to serve as interviewers, scribes, registration desk attendants, photographers, and data entry/backup assistants. This is a grassroots effort; professional experience is not required!!

To find out more and register online go to the website here. Or email: qsos@quiltalliance.org

Attitude of Gratitude post – week 39

2011-10-02T11:20:00.001+02:00

Gratitude is medicine to the heart. Gratitude lifts the heart from setbacks that seek to weight it and brings a glow from the positive stream of gratitude expressed in words or actions. Does expressing gratitude do this for you?

It is true that gratitude starts from the heart. You have to get in touch with yourself and listen to your heart. Gratitude is a reflection. It takes some time to adjust your perspective, but all of a sudden you notice that you perceive life and events differently.

Savour the pleasant things in life from the rising of the sun, the wind whispers, the dew decked paddock with horses, the charm of an Indian summer, the beauty of raindrops on window panes, the sensation of the moon and stars as a daily routine. This practice helps filter out the root of bitterness as you embrace you day and effectively neutralize the impact of bad experiences. I have found this frees my heart and opens a window to joyful and grateful living.

I’m finding myself saying grace throughout the day. It is becoming addictive. The change in me is being sensed by others. People actually notice my joy.

So grateful to be writing about what I’m grateful for. Grateful to be able to have taken these shots on the way to the hairdressers yesterday morning.

Grateful to the cyclist in the peloton (bunch of cyclists) passing me by and saying ‘hello girl’ to me! Grateful for country music, grateful for the cleaned car that I picked up Friday morning. That it now feels like I’m driving in a new car. A sensation I enjoy. So grateful to be in a place that I can be truthful myself and notice that I’m accepted for who I am and for the skills & knowledge I bring with me. So grateful I took health science and was able to get a PhD in health psychology.

I’m grateful for the parting gifts I got last Thursday. Love the little notes my ex-colleagues wrote in the books I got.

So grateful I got up early today and watched ‘it’s complicated’.

What a good way to start my day. I can identify with the theme of letting go. Accepting that one has to move on. Boy, I nearly died laughing from some scenes. Meryl Streep was absolutely great as usual, and I love Alec Baldwin in this movie. A great combination. Meryl really knows her stuff. Which brings me to another great film. Grateful for having seen it and grateful for the memories. Which film am I talking about? Yes, ‘The Bridges of Madison County’. An oldie and goodie. Can’t believe that this film is 16 years old. I remember as if I saw it yesterday!

I’m grateful that I found Blogger. I’m grateful that I’m writing and found a medium to express myself and sometimes even help others by voicing my thoughts, opinions, views and life experiences. I’m grateful to allow myself to ramble on like this.

Really grateful to already be filling out so much of my ‘bucket’ list. So grateful I’m finally able to enjoy the miracle in the moment. Grateful for these pivot thoughts: everything is unfolding perfectly. I’m living well being. I am an integrator. I create on so many levels and grateful to be finally able to accept that I am an inventor (in my work and as a quiltmaker). I’m grateful that whatever I think about, I bring about. I’m an organizer. I make dreams come true, not just my own but also of others. I’m ecstatic to realize that I can finally trust the flow I’m in. I want to transform. I want to lead with my light.

I’m grateful to have cleaned up my thoughts, that I have changed my perspective on things and able to say grace for the past one and half years.

Walk the talk

Dear Jane circle

2011-10-01T17:43:00.001+02:00

What a terrific day today was. Love this Indian summer we are experiencing. Around noon it was about 28 degrees Celsius. If only today could last forever . Love this weather.

Here is me leaving. Yes, I got myself a shopper for all my Dear Jane stuff. Just chuck all the boxes in, the shopper fits nicely behind the drivers seat and off I go.

I’m standing a little weird if I do say so. Must be because of that big bag on my right shoulder.

This was the first thing I saw when I arrived at Juud’s place. I knew I was at the right place. Look how many Karin & Juud have made.

I really should make some effort and also piece the sashings.

The Dear Jane circle has increased in size. In March I thought I would be doing the Dear Jane all alone. A good six month later it isn’t just me any more. After the lunch there were 6 of us, piecing fanatically.

This was how far I had gotten around 12am.

This was around 2pm

I finally finished this baby Jane around 4pm.

Can’t imagine a greater way to spend my day. Looking forward to the next circle, which will be at my place. Don’t think we will be sitting outside than. Who knows we might even have some snow around than. As the next Dear Jane circle is at the end of autumn.

Christmas bee

2011-09-28T20:13:00.001+02:00

Berna & I got together last Monday. Just showing off some of our work in this post. If you are curious, read on. If not, skip this post.

Look at this masterpiece Berna has made. The top is completed! Love the combination of classical embroidery and quilt blocks.

Hubby was so kind to take some pictures. Lots of happy faces in these shots.

Here is me busy stitching on the right hand panel of the ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas’ quilt. I really love this pattern from Crab-Apple Hill.

As some of you know, Berna, has started with the SBS. It is amazing how many blocks she has already done. Here are two.

The block on the right was nearly done, but she finished it when she got home. She was only here for a short visit. I was soooooooooooo tired. Not even the coffee enabled me to stay up longer. All the yawning gave me away. I couldn’t deny that I was kind of tired.

I enjoyed our bee very much, caught up on all that is happening and I’m looking forward to the next one. Can’t wait to see how many blocks Berna are completed by than.

I’m kind of hoping to be able to start on the third panel. Question: do you think I should take the stitchery with me onto the plane? Are you allowed to stitch while flying? What can you take onto the plane with you regarding quilting & stitching notions. Please share your experiences.

Gratitude post – week 38

2011-09-25T18:12:00.001+02:00

I’m tickled to notice a change in me. I’m definitely more relaxed and self-assured. I have a dream and I know I’m able to make it reality.

Came across this quote I want to share. ‘Don’t be afraid of the space between your dreams and reality. If you can dream it, you can make it so’ ~ Belva Davis.

By the way, Belva Davis is one amazing lady. As some readers of this blog have noticed. It has taken me some time to find myself a new dream. But it is funny to realise that now I have a dream, I too have acquired patience to let my dream unfold itself. I have all the time in the world. I’m convinced that it is not impossible, if I just keep my head and listen to my heart. I’m in the right environment to realize my dream. I applaud this mindset change. For this I’m grateful.

I’m thankful to those who helped me find my dream.

If you believe it, you can realize anything. Even this perfect Latte Macchiato.

I’m thankful that I was able to create time to be creative this week. I was able to work on my Dear Jane quilt and my Christmas stitchery quilt (‘tis the night before Christmas).

The weeks before Christmas make me merry. Love the preparation phase. Only 90 days to go! To not come empty handed to the ‘Tilda doll workshop’ in 3 weeks time, Aagje, my quilt teacher, convinced me to buy this.

The kit contains all the materials that you need for this Santa. I chose to make this one because of the sack with the reindeer and candy stick. If the workshop is a success and this doll is easy to make, I might even make the Santa with the drum, see the Santa on the book cover on your left.

I’m pleased that hubby and I were able to deliver the new TV to my mum. She might even go digital! Once she has made up her mind to get a decoder. I’m thankful that we can do this.

I felt exhilarated after my yoga session last Tuesday. I really love yoga! On the one hand it gives a sense of peace and on the other hand it gives energy. A paradox.

I’m delighted that the boss had decided to pay for the cleaning of the interior of my (lease) car. A dirty and poorly maintained car can really effect my mood. This proposition has made me a lot happier. I didn’t even have to nag too much.

Last but not least, I’m grateful for this beautiful warm autumn. I was hoping for an Indian summer and it looks like my wish came true. It is absolutely awesome. Even now, at 6pm, we have blue skies and the sun is making the evening look a lot brighter.

I’ve come to realize, change your thoughts and you will change your life.

We need you! Please volunteer too!

2011-09-24T12:53:00.001+02:00

This year at the International Quilt Festival in Houston, Texas (November 3-6), a team of volunteers lead by the nonprofit Alliance for American Quilters will interview 64 Texas quiltmakers for the Quilters’ S.O.S. – Save Our Stories (Q.S.O.S.) oral history project.

To find out more and register online go to the website here. Or email: qsos@quiltalliance.org

Are you tempted? Go on and sign-up here. Please leave a comment on this post if you intend to join me as a volunteer. I would love to meet you.

I’m so looking forward to this trip, going to the Festival and joining the Q.S.O.S. team to interview some of the Texas quiltmakers. I’m pretty excited, as it is only 37 more sleeps till I fly to Houston.

A baby Jane under construction!

2011-09-22T17:52:00.001+02:00

It has been some time since I opened the box with all my Dear Jane stuff. Four whole weeks!! I even had forgotten how far I had gotten with G-9 ‘Mary’s Journey’. It won’t surprise you, it was a little disappointing to see what I still had to do.

Oops, I better get on with it and draw some lines and cut-out the pieces! It is hard to see the lines on this dark fabric.They fade so quickly.

Together we are making some progress. In the second row you see my blocks on the left and Juud’s blocks on the right. In the top row some more completed blocks that Juud has made. Love the fabric!

I had an enjoyable evening last night and happy to realize I’m getting into the rhythm of the Dear Jane again. I just need to piece this baby Jane and I will have completed another block! Whoopee!

Juud showed me what she brought back from Ste Marie aux Mines. See the lovely fabrics and the autumn issue of Quiltmania?

But she also bought this book back from France. Which is a little funny as this quilter is Dutch. Will put this book on my wish-list! This lady has made some lovely quilts and isn’t it grand that she is sharing them with us?

If you want to read more about Juud’s trip, visit her blog by clicking here.

Lucky for me, only 9 more nights before we have our next Dear Jane bee.

Yoga night – Quality time

2011-09-20T06:59:00.001+02:00

Picture copied from here.

I need some ‘me’ time!

Progress on Christmas Stitchery!

2011-09-19T17:23:00.000+02:00

My stitching MOJO is back!! As you can see, Teddy, the cat, likes watching me as I work on this redwork stitchery.

Being Grateful

2011-09-18T16:48:00.001+02:00

Being Grateful in any circumstance is a Choice! Too many people are unhappy because they haven’t learned Gratitude. We are sole responsible to find happiness in our lives. The more Gratitude we show – The More we will have to be Grateful For! We need to put on those Rose Coloured Glasses! I sometimes wear mine. Yes, I have pink glasses, or at least the frame is pink!

My Attitude, a poem by Charles Swindoll

“The longer I live, the more I realize
the impact of attitude on life.
Attitude, to me, is more important than
education, than money, than circumstances,
than failures, than successes, than appearance,
giftedness or skill. It will make or break
a company, church or home.
The remarkable thing is that we have
a choice every day regarding the attitude
we will embrace for that day.
We cannot change our past.
We cannot change the fact that
people will act in a certain way.
We cannot change the inevitable.
The only thing we can do is play on the one
string we have, and that is our attitude.
I am convinced that life is
10% of what happens to me
and 90% how I react to it.
And so it is with you.
We are in charge of our attitudes.”

I love being in my study and are extremely thankful that I have a place to think, reflect, ponder and appreciate the wonderful world we live in.

Looking forward to coming week and thankful for all that has come across my path last week.

A entry for my ‘Simple Woman’s Day book’

2011-09-17T18:05:00.001+02:00

TODAY

Saturday, 17th of September

Please visit The Simple Woman's Day book

Outside my window...in one of my dreams. The sun is shining over the lush green valley. Its rays are brightening up my room. Some alpacas are wondering through the paddock, that lays along our backyard. I hear the trickle of water meandering down the small stream alongside our large farmhouse. A quiet breeze is blowing and birds are chirping merrily.

I am thinking...about time. What sense or senses do we use when perceiving time? Even if all our senses (sight, hearing, touch, taste, smell) were prevented from functioning for a while, we could still notice the passing of time through the changing pattern of our thought. Perhaps, then, we have a special faculty, distinct from the five senses, for detecting time. Or perhaps, we notice time through perception of other things. I’m unable to grasp time. For disappearing acts, it's hard to beat what happens to the eight hours supposedly left after eight of sleep and eight of work. ~ Doug Larson. If I count correctly, there is still somewhere eight hours left in my day. I’m just thinking where do the hours disappeared to?

I am grateful... for being here!

From the learning rooms...I need to chunk my goals. I set such high goals that it seems I’m not going anywhere. I need to make choices. I can’t do everything. I need to learn to lower my expectations, but most importantly let myself not be influenced by the expectations of others have of me. Need to learn not to live for tomorrow. But most of all I need to learn to enjoy what I have achieved today.

From the studio...progress on ’tis the night before Christmas quilt. The right panel of the quilt.

In the laundry...the washing machine is turning. Two loads of washing has been done so far. The first load is hanging to dry on our door racks. I have a couple of these hanging on doors upstairs.

I am wearing...jeans & shirt

I am creating...this post

I am going...to watch the Star Wars film series. Yes, I’m talking about the series created by George Lucas. I’m most probably one of the few people on this earth who hasn’t seen one film in the series. Hubby asked, how did I want to see it. In the order the series was produced, or from the beginning of the double trilogy. I’m a practical girl, so I’m going to watch from the beginning. Hoping that the spiritual underpinnings of the story meets up to my expectations. I have been made to belief that when you look at the films through a symbolic lens, the life-lessons are abundant. Will let you know what I think!

I am remembering… my father. If my father was alive today, he would have turned 77 this month. It is hard to imagine my father as a man in his seventies. My father died at the age I am now, which is 47. Hard to grasp this. Time is such a strange concept, as in a certain sense it only seems like yesterday. But it was a long time ago. His death had a big impact on me. I dedicated my PhD thesis to him. Cuius mors initium erat fascinationis meae.

I am wondering...whether I have PMS or slowly coming into the peri-menopause phase. Cues that make me wonder if menopause is on its way:

Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat
Mood swings
Fatigue
Depression
Weight gain
Hot flashes
Memory loss and lapses
Difficulty in concentrating, mental confusion and disorientation
Aching, sore joints, muscles and tendons, and increased tension in muscles
Headaches
Itchy, crawly skin
Vertigo, light-headedness, episodes of losing your balance
Gastrointestinal distress, flatulence, indigestion, nausea, bloating
Worsening of existing conditions, increase in allergies
Electric shock sensation under the skin and in the head
Tinnitus -- ringing in ears, bells, "whooshing," buzzing
Fingernails that become softer, break and crack easier

After reading the above, I’m a little worried now! I guess I’m aging!!

I am reading...the English magazine Good Housekeeping & the Dutch magazine Happinez. Have you checked out their app?

I am hoping...to get some popcorn when watching the movie!

I am looking forward to...coming Wednesday. Going to make another baby Jane block. It has been sometime since I’ve been able to work on the Dear Jane. Nearly 28 days.

I am hearing...nothing. It is pretty quiet at the moment. I prefer this silence, but it won’t be for long as I see it is raining. Even though I can hardly hear it.

I am proud to say...I’m getting back into a workout rhythm. I’ve been able to make time to get onto the cross-trainer and rowing-machine 3 times this week.

One of my favourite things... is flowers

What I have loved most about today...is letting go of my goals for today. Tomorrow is a new day!

A few plans for the rest of the week: last coaching session on Monday, yoga on Tuesday and dietician visit on Wednesday.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

I have a 3 seater-lounge in the livingroom. Why does Teddy choose to sit on my stitchery, when he can have the rest of the lounge for himself?

Only 98 days to go!!

2011-09-17T15:53:00.001+02:00

I might not have much time to quilt or do patchwork, but I did find some time to get ready for…….. Christmas

I feel no pressure when working on this stitchery. I just pick it up when I get home and while sitting on the lounge, I stitch. Love the redwork! The nicest thing about this project, is to notice I’m actually making some progress. Love the story that unfolds. Loved stitching the cheeky snowman sliding done the sloop. Second panel is nearly halfway done.

Gratitude post – week 36

2011-09-11T17:56:00.001+02:00

Today we remember 9/11. It is hard to remain unaffected when you really try to understand the full impact this act has had on our lives. Words that come to mind: compassion, community, grief, courage, gratitude, grace, morals, freedom, peace, hate & beliefs.

I think ‘we’ must be the change we want in the world (Ghandi) and from my view one of the ways to achieve this change is to live the attitude of gratitude. Gratitude is the way to bring more into your own life, but lots more into the lives of others.

If only we all lived by this code of morals. I would love to hear if you agree with these ethics.

We are interdependent. Each of us depends on the well-being of the whole, and so we have respect for the community of living beings, for people, animals, and plants, and for the preservation of Earth, the air, water and soil.

We take individual responsibility for all we do. All our decisions, actions, and failures to act have consequences.

We must treat others as we wish others to treat us. We make a commitment to respect life and dignity, individuality and diversity, so that every person is treated humanely, without exception. We must have patience and acceptance. We must be able to forgive, learning from the past but never allowing ourselves to be enslaved by memories of hate. Opening our hearts to one another, we must sink our narrow differences for the cause of world community, practicing a culture of solidarity and relatedness.

We consider humankind a family. We must strive to be kind and generous. We must not live for ourselves alone, but should also serve others, never forgetting the children, the aged, the poor, the suffering, the disabled, the refugees and the lonely. No person should ever be considered or treated as a second-class citizen, or be exploited in any way whatsoever. There should be equal partnership between men and women. We must not commit any kind of sexual immorality. We must put behind us all forms of domination or abuse.

We commit ourselves to a culture of non-violence, respect, justice, and peace. We shall not oppress, injure, torture, or kill other human beings, forsaking violence as a means of settling differences.

We must strive for a just social and economic order, in which everyone has an equal chance to reach full potential as a human being. We must speak and act truthfully and with compassion, dealing fairly with all, and avoiding prejudice and hatred. We must not steal. We must move beyond the dominance of greed for power, prestige, money, and consumption to make a just and peaceful world.

Earth cannot be changed for the better unless the consciousness of individuals is changed first. We pledge to increase our awareness by disciplining our minds, by meditation, by prayer, or by positive thinking. Without risk and a readiness to sacrifice there can be no fundamental change in our situation. Therefore we commit ourselves to this global ethic, to understanding one another, and to socially beneficial, peace-fostering, and nature-friendly ways of life.

We invite all people, whether religious or not, to do the same.

The above italic text are excerpts from The Declaration of a Global Ethic read at San Francisco's Day of Remembrance on September 17th 2001.

If we abide by these morals wouldn’t the world be a better place to live in? I often wonder why when you ask the individual they agree that they live by these morals, but as a society as a whole we somehow can’t achieve the same level of commitment. How do we make a community? Do we need to focus more on our similarities than on our differences?

I want to voice my gratitude for the person who wrote this quote:

We shall never forget
We shall keep this day,
We shall keep the events and the tears
In our minds, our memory and our hearts
and take them with us as we carry on.

I won’t be reflecting this week on all those things on a personal level that I’m grateful for. They are too numerous to write down, and in light of today not appropriate. I’m hoping that we are able to live in a more compassionate society. We just need to understand that if you want to be free from interference yourself, you are then obliged to acknowledge the same right in others. I think this will make the world considerably better than it is now.

What counts is not what we feel, but what we do. Walk the talk.

This is my way to pay tribute to all that lost someone on 9/11. Please go here and read the beautiful poem written by David J. Carr on memory quilts.

For those who committed this act and those who are contemplating on doing the same, I ask why do you condemn another believer? Why do you look down on another believer? Remember, we will all stand before the judgment seat of God.

Gratitude post – week 35

2011-09-04T15:22:00.001+02:00

I’m continually trying to be in a state of gratefulness. Not only on Sunday, when I make time to write this post and reflect on all the happenings of the past week, but I also try to acknowledge my gratitude on the other days of the week.

"Our favourite attitude should be gratitude" (source unknown).

Gratitude, thankfulness, gratefulness, or appreciation is a feeling, emotion or attitude in acknowledgment of a benefit that one has received or will receive. For some gratitude is treated as a duty. Which is an interesting concept to consider although the duty of gratitude is not to act but to feel a certain way. Another concept to consider involves the idea of repayment, although gratitude is not simply the repayment of a debt, for the benefactor cannot demand gratitude in the way a creditor can demand repayment.

Gratitude should not be confused with indebtedness. It is not the same. We should feel gratitude for things that we cannot in any meaningful sense repay, such as life. What is required is a feeling of love or honour for the benefactor.

The experience of gratitude has historically been a focus of several world religions, and has been considered extensively by moral philosophers. With the advent of the positive psychology movement, gratitude has become a mainstream focus of psychological research. I try to be grateful not out of moral obligation or because of my religious beliefs. Feeling grateful gives me more control, allows for personal growth, gives me purpose and self-acceptance. I’m happier and more satisfied with my life. It helps me cope with difficulties in my daily life. Being grateful helps me be more positive.

The funny thing is that life just seems to get better when you’re in a state of gratefulness. Gratitude should really be our favourite attitude

My list of things I’m grateful for

- being able to hear the violin concerto in G major – Allegro Moderation, from J. Haydn by Rachel Podger coming from the music room.

- that it was finally the 1st of September last Thursday and I could start working for my new employer. Love the positive attitude of my new colleagues and the entrepreneurship they seem to posses naturally.

- that my sister, brother-in-law, and nieces had a good holiday in Sweden and came home safely.

- feeling bliss after picking up the new car and seeing that it is black. I think a car can be painted any colour so long as it is black. This is my degeneration of the remark Henry Ford made about the Model T that was brought into production in 1909.

- Saturday being a beautiful warm sunny day. Making it possible to barbecue outside with friends. We were able to sit outside till 9pm. I think this was one of the first and most probably only time this year.

- Raymond taking our wooden garden swing with him. We have been trying to get rid of it for some time, but no one wanted it. The swing was just too big for our backyard. Still I hope one day to have a porch swing (a two-seater), but I guess that means we need to move which won’t happen in the foreseeable future as we love where we live now.

- that hubby is such a clever man. At the moment he is connecting my mobile phones to the car, so that I can phone hands-free.

But most importantly, I’m thankful for the fact that I’ve found my rhythm again. I only wish for some more balance regarding my creativity-time. In my professional capacity I create solutions for clients but on personal level I also love creating works of art (quilts). Being able to create is a necessity. Only it is hard to find a balance allowing me to be creative on all levels.

End of summer

2011-08-31T15:59:00.001+02:00

Summer is the warmest of the four temperate seasons. I find it hard to believe it is the warmest, as it hasn’t been very warm & sunny since June. Today marks the end of summer. Tomorrow we go onto the autumn season. Actually, I think it has been here for some time. It came little earlier this year.

This is what you see when standing in the backyard at 3pm. I hopped outside quickly as it was raining. I didn’t want to get wet

I than ran to the front and the sky looked like this.

As we don’t have very good light today. The picture of the backyard looks like this.

And this is how the front of the house looks.

Luckily everything is still green, otherwise I would really get depressed. It is on these days I ask myself why do I live in the Netherlands. The light is so much better in Australia and the summers a lot longer!

I’m hoping for an Indian summer, especially in the coming weekends! For those who don’t know what an Indian summer is, this is a meteorological phenomenon that occurs in the autumn. It refers to a period of considerably above normal temperatures, accompanied by dry and hazy conditions.

Bye bye summer!

Wednesday – the Simple Woman’s Daybook

2011-08-31T09:39:00.001+02:00

FOR TODAY

Wednesday, August 31st 2011

Please visit The Simple Woman's Day book

Outside my window...the birds are chirping & tweeting letting themselves be heard. The sun is trying to beam its rays through the grey clouded sky. A slight breeze is coming through the window. Loving the crisp morning breeze.

I am thinking... how will is be to work full-time again after having a six week break. Although I’m looking forward to getting started again and help others to optimize their work performance, I have to admit that I liked the life I led the past weeks. No stress, no worries, no nagging, no negativity. It was bliss. Maybe I should continue saving for another break, maybe plan a sabbatical to make some progress on a book I would like to write.

I am thankful...for the life I’m leading and the people in my life.

From the learning rooms...although it might look like I’m pretty goal-oriented I’m learning to accept that it is ok to go with the flow.

In the kitchen... everything is cleared away. However, there is still some left-over milk in the Krups Milk frother after making myself a caffè latte.

I am wearing...white jeans and grey&white striped tunic top.

I am creating...dreams

I am going...to my old employer a little later in the morning to return my car, mobile and laptop. Tomorrow I’ll get a new car, mobile and laptop from my new employer. So this afternoon you might see me on my bike cycling through our village to get some groceries & maybe some flowers.

I am wondering...how my trip to the office will be tomorrow. Will be taking the train & bus to get there. Curious what kind of car they have decided to give me to take home. I’m a little agape. I know it is a little silly but I loved the car I had the past 3 years. It was a real Helen’s car. It is hard to let it go. Is this silly of me?

I am reading... nothing at the moment.

What did I do this morning…. went to the dentist on my bike. Nothing beats an early morning ride, cycling through the parks along the way and seeing little bunny rabbits hopping out of the bushes. Amazed how many I came across, at least 5. I really should take my bike out more often!

I am hoping... that I made the right decision.

I am looking forward to...the barbecue this weekend. Meeting up with friends and catch-up on all that is happening in their lives. We might even have an extra guest!

Around the house... it is pretty quiet. Teddy is sleeping on my sofa chair.

I am pondering...about a word that keeps popping into my head - grace. Trying to figure out what grace means to me. It might be a subject that will pop-up more frequently in future posts.

One of my favourite things...at the moment my iPhone!

A quote I like to share….

“Time is free, but it's priceless. You can't own it, but you can use it. You can't keep it, but you can spend it. Once you've lost it you can never get it back.” ~ Harvey MacKay

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

The inside of the Frauenkirche in Dresden, Germany.

Meditative moment

2011-08-30T10:06:00.001+02:00

Yoga is starting again tonight!

I love yoga because it helps not only improve the physical condition of my body, but yoga also helps me (re-)discover myself on a mental and spiritual level. This is because yoga aids the individual in connecting with your inner self and thereby I (usually) feel enlightened and calm during the session.

One an half hour of bliss.

But I have to admit I’m usually a little hyper when I get home from a yoga-session, just ask hubby.

Gratitude post – week 33 and 34

2011-08-28T18:49:00.001+02:00

Nearly two weeks have past since my last Gratitude post. I was unable to write one last Sunday as I was away for a short break. Some would wonder why I didn’t go online, but I find it too much bother when residing in another country. I’m still feeling very cheerful even though I’ve been back five days. Had a great end of summer break with my mum. It was nice to be away and explore a small part of Saxony-Anhalt in Germany. I’m also grateful for having such a super mum. We had a good time. Actually a great time. We hardly squabbled, which is unusual as this defines part of our mother-daughter relationship. Love you mum.

On hindsight I’m becoming to appreciating the crisis I went through more and more. It has made me a happier Helen. I’ve had to endure some discomfort the past months and that is voicing it mildly. I realize that an attribute of a great crisis is that you can’t skip the state of feeling ruined and having lost all control. And did I lose it! My personal radar had collapsed and I had no compass.

It is hard to see that all your beliefs and ideas about yourself seem to have demolished. You think, s**t, I can start all over again! But how? Re-occurring questions keep popping up in your head: who am I, what do I want, what do I need, where do I want to go, what do I want to be, what do I aspire? Questions that you can’t seem to answer straightaway. It takes time! And time seems to go by so slow. But I’ve come to realize a crisis means new opportunities, clarity, clearance, freedom. But the saying is true: no pain, no gain. You have to go through the pain, you have to take your time and endure some discomfort. But when you have been successful, you find that a crisis can be a very significant and helpful experience that makes your life easier to understand. You find that your world has widened. I’ve become wiser. So you guys who are still lost, hang in there. I’m convinced you will come through the crisis with flying colours. You will survive!

A new challenge has come across my path. Leadership. How do I define leadership? What is my leadership style? Am I a leader? How can I incorporate my personal leadership style with my managerial style? Personal leadership is a state of mind, of heart, and of body. Personal leadership describes a way of being and of interacting with the world that begins from the "inside-out. Personal leadership offers the possibility of a creative and inspiring relationship to work, family, friends, and colleagues—to everything we do. It offers us a way to "walk our talk." I’m a listener, I seek multiple perspectives, I have a relentless predisposition and I’m open to critique (maybe too open). I’m a bridge-builder and able to zoom in and zoom out at will. I love facilitating others to unleash their potential and discover the leader in themselves. Some would call me a ‘Integrator’. Leadership has been described as the “process of social influence in which one person can enlist the aid and support of others in the accomplishment of a common task". Some leaders lead with their hearts while others lead with their minds. I lead by the heart. But is the world ready for me? Am I ready for the world? I see all around me that people still seek traditional leaders. Traditional leaders still have the power and even today we still appoint new leaders with traditional style of leadership. I’m appreciative of my coach who challenges me to think about these things and by doing this I’m discovering who I am.

Feeling exuberant after meeting some of my new colleagues. The meetings and the End of Summer barbecue have energized me.

Tickled after a lovely shopping spree with an ex-colleague. Will be doing this more often. I’ve been in shops I’ve never been in before because of her. It was also a very successful evening as I came home with some new tops that I can wear to work.

Pleased that the outcome of my annual check-up was good.

Blissful after coming to terms that I can’t do everything. A day only has 24 hours! Have come to accept that my progress on the Dear Jane will be slower that I would like. This is also true for ‘Tis the night before Christmas quilt and Zoë’s quilt. I need to claim time too for blogging, reading, meeting up with friends and family and work.

Joyful for all the compliments I get for this Gratitude post. You know who you are! I’m overwhelmed and it is encouraging to keep on trying to voice my gratitude.

Last but not least I would like to voice my thankfulness towards the developers of the iPhone4. You really developed a phone that I love to use. Why did I wait so long to get you?

Start day – quilt classes, workshops are kicking off again

2011-08-28T14:48:00.001+02:00

Saturday, 27th of August was the kick-off of the autumn quilt season at the Quilt Cellar in Putten. It is becoming a tradition that I’m asked to help. Like last year, I assist people in helping choose their fabrics. I like this job because Riek (shop owner) & Aagje (quilt teacher) have a lot of faith in my ability to select the right fabric and complementary colours for the quilt, the (novice) quilter wants to make. I seem to have the knack to help people in making a choice they are happy with. We all know that the choice of quilting fabric is important, but the right colour scheme is even more important. Colour and fabric choice goes together hand in hand. A wrong colour scheme or even one odd colour can make the quilt look shabby and unappealing, and we don’t want that! Lot of quilters are a little unsure about choosing the right colour scheme, and really rely on the advise of the assistants.

Here is an impression of the day.

View Full Album

Henk van Kooten was there too, to give a lecture on the quilts he has made. Impressive work, especially the quilting. I think he gave about 5 lectures. I was lucky to be present during his 11.30 am lecture. It was great. He and his partner are great storytellers.

View Full Album

If you missed out, next year his quilts will be displayed at the Quilt Festival in the northern of Groningen (one of the provinces in the Netherlands). Click on the flyer for more information (it will be in Dutch however).

Some time ago, Henk was also interviewed by the Alliance for American Quilters. Click here to read the interview.

Have to share the picture of ‘Hugo’ and me. Hugo is the golden retriever (the puppy dog) in the photo underneath. He came for a visit to the quilt shop late in the afternoon. Isn’t he cute?

If only I could take him home with me. Maybe one day, when I’m retired, I can have a dog like Hugo!! Oops, here is another close-up. I couldn’t keep my eyes off him.

I also enrolled myself in another workshop. I couldn’t resist the Tilda dolls displayed. I’m going to learn how to make these Tilda’s Christmas man, designed by Tone Finnanger. Visit her website here.

As Christmas is coming soon, these will look lovely with all the other Christmas decorations! I can start unpacking the Christmas decorations in about 3 months time. We usually decorate the house around the 1st of December

End of Summer Break

2011-08-28T12:53:00.001+02:00

I’ve been away for a couple of days. A short break before I start work for my new boss. Where did I go you might wonder. Well here:

Grotere kaart weergeven

A stunning area in former east Germany. The Harz in Saxony-Anhalt.

Our home away from home.

Dresden. Mum and I have wanted to go to Dresden for a long time. Heard so much about this city. Well it was worth our effort. And an effort it was, as it was a 2 1/2 hour drive from our hotel and it was hot & humid. Naturally we choose to go on the day it would be about 32 degrees! Lucky for us we saw most of the city using the hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus. For those who are planning a visit, a bus leaves every quarter of an hour at the "Theaterplatz".

Magdeburg

Quedlinburg

Burg Falkenstein

An old church anno 1678!

Teufelsmauer, the Devil's dance floor according to legend.

Another burg

Sunrise! Room view from hotel.

Mum and I had a great time. Looking forward to our next break.

Look what the postman brought

2011-08-16T16:57:00.001+02:00

It really is Christmas in August!

What is great about this pattern, it includes pre-printed linen en red embroidery floss. I ordered the pattern here. In less than a week it came all the way from Australia to the Netherlands. How cool is that?

Christmas in August

2011-08-16T08:36:00.001+02:00

I’m still working on my ‘Tis, the night before Christmas! Absolutely love this project.

Baby Jane G5 – Poof completed

2011-08-16T08:24:00.001+02:00

Go here if you want to see my progress on the Dear Jane.

Gratitude post – week 32

2011-08-14T09:53:00.001+02:00

Being in Gratitude is having a continuous attitude of appreciation for every thing and every one around you.

The grateful mind is constantly fixed on the best, therefore it will receive the best. ~ Wallace Wattles

I can now say that it is true that our hardest experiences tend to have been our greatest teachers and be the catalyst for our greatest growth and transformation.

I’m in a transition towards joyful gratitude: the natural sense of wonder that comes from appreciating life exactly as it is. I’m accepting me for who I am. For that I’m thankful.

I believe character can take you where you want to go in life more so than anything else. There are three personality traits that will get you on the road to where you want to go. I think I have a more humble trait. Humble can be defined as "not proud or arrogant". When you have humility, you are less likely to offend anyone and people will naturally want to help you and be nice to you, at least that is what I think. I think humility is a good personality trait to have. It comes naturally to me. But this isn’t a good trait when living in the Netherlands. This sometime puts me in a difficult predicament, as I really believe if you are humble before people, people will be humble before you and give you whatever you want. I find people very off putting who think themselves to be better/more than ‘others’. I don’t think you should gloat about your achievements, as they usually aren’t just your own. Two other traits remain to be discussed: patience and charm. Career wise I have a lot of patience. Maybe too much patience and I don’t always take the lead when I really should. While writing this, I realize I should work on my charm. But why do I think so negatively about charm. I think I know! Some people I know are real charmers but while charming me, they are also being deceptive. I’ve been placed in some difficult situations by falling for their charms. But charm is not deceit. Charm can be a sincere personality. I think I need to work on this! Work on my charisma or ‘gift of grace’.

I found a blogger that I want to share with you. Nearly every post delights me and inspires me. It gets me wondering - if only I could write like Emily - comes to mind often. I love the analogy about the bench! Do check it out as the concept rocks. I’m looking for that place to be. My blog is a place to talk about things and share them with you. Blogger is giving me a place to do it. I prefer not to be in the spotlight. Yes, this is the humble Helen. Blogger provides me a bench to sit on and share. Believe me, when I say you won’t see me often on a stage like this one to share my thoughts and feelings.

I’m glad that we are receiving all this rain. This is what is coming over at the moment. Nearly all of the Netherlands is covered by rain filled clouds.

It gives me time to read books on my Kindle, to write on my blog, to keep up on all the posts of other bloggers, to prepare for my new job & Houston, getting ready for a trip to the Harz, Germany, doing some stitchery and just ponder.

I’m rejoicing as I have finally decided which classes I will follow in Houston. Yesterday I enrolled and hope to hear from them soon if I can do all 5 classes. I’m doing two classes on hand appliqué. Maybe I might see you there. I’m not too impressed with my skill level so far. Hopefully I will learn some good & useful techniques. Do you find appliqué hard? If you do, I hope to meet you in Houston

I’m delighted for being able to meet up with an old friend last Monday. I hadn’t seen her for more than 8 years!! Funny, how it doesn’t feel like 8 years once you start talking.

Blithesome after a very enjoyable meal at an Arabian restaurant in Utrecht. The food was great and the company fantastic. If you are in the Netherlands do check it out: Badhu.

Tickled with these books:

Yes, I’m getting ready to go to Texas! I’m dreaming about the lone star quilt on the front cover. One day!

Have to share this quote: “I cried, and cried some more. I told God that I was weary of trying. And, God told me to quit trying. It doesn't sound like a revelation, but it feels like a revelation. Because I got it on a deeper level. I'm going to quit trying. When I forget, I'm going to remind myself. I'm going to do what I want to do; and I'm going to quit trying to do the rest. It's not the doing that's exhausting; it's the trying. The doing is exhilarating!” ~ Jan Denise

Feeling exhilarated with my simple happy life.

Have a good week!

Meditative Friday morning

2011-08-12T07:21:00.001+02:00

Christmas in August

2011-08-10T08:45:00.001+02:00

It is that time of the year again when you realize that in only 136 days it will be Christmas. I love Christmas, especially the pre-Christmas phase. Dreaming and getting all mellow just thinking about it. Christmas is a joyful time of the year. When I think of Christmas I think of good times and creating memories. Christmas is the best time of the year for me. Christmas means having fun with your family, spending time with each other, travelling from one place to the other, seeing all the beautiful lights, decorating the tree, singing along with all the Christmas songs, pondering on the Christmas menu, cooking & baking in the kitchen, setting the dinner table with all my Wedgewood, eating roasted turkey with all the trimmings, and buying presents for other people.

Nothing beats Christmas. Christmas means new beginnings.

To revitalize the mood I work on ‘Tis the night before Christmas – redwork stitchery quilt. Yesterday afternoon I traced the stitchery pattern onto the fabric. The right-side border is about 80x140cm. My arm is a little sore from all the tracing. I’m not used to holding a pen that long!

I’m really enjoying making this quilt. Wouldn’t it be great if I could finish the top before Christmas? Girl, lets not get ahead of ourselves! Just enjoy the process.

So, after dinner I went to Berna, and started stitching on the right-hand border. Naturally, Berna has started on a new project. It is a lovely pattern. Her embroidery is immaculate. I wish I was able to make such neat little stitches. If you want to see more of this quilt, go to her blog.

She also showed me the quilt she just finished sandwiching. She is now going to start quilting this beauty.

I love the little roll-up block keeper. I would love one myself. So I took plenty of pictures so that when I find myself a spare moment I can make one. Some of the ladies at the Dear Jane Club have one too. Only theirs are a little smaller than the one Berna has. Choices, choices. What would be handy, a small one or a big block keeper?

Reflective moment

2011-08-08T20:38:00.001+02:00

Love the lyrics of this song. Must remember this:

‘’There's always going to be another mountain
I'm always going to want to make it move
Always going to be an uphill battle,
Sometimes I'm gonna to have to lose,
Ain't about how fast I get there,
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb’’

Songwriters: Jessi Alexander & Jon Clifton Mabe

You got to also listen to the video clip below. Memories! Love Miley Cyrus singing with Joan Jett. Do you remember these songs? Guess I’m showing my age now. Joan Jett is only 5 years older than me. Who would have guessed

Had to share and show a different side of me.

Sunday afternoon

2011-08-07T20:23:00.001+02:00

Interesting skies Bird watchingMaking F6 – Deanie’s Daisies. Read more about it here. Contemplating on which blocks to do after finishing the one above.

Gratitude post – week 31

2011-08-07T12:25:00.001+02:00

Today like everyday count many blessings on your way.

a little poem

I’m cataloguing my blessings.

The secret of happiness is to count your blessings while others are adding up their troubles.~ William Penn

I am in a phase of transition. I’m healing, I’m changing. The past months has given me a new perspective on my life and the world that surrounds me.

"…let us have the courage...to make our lives a blessing...and let us say Amen." (from a Jewish prayer). The practice of rambling about the little things I’m grateful for is changing me. I’m grateful for having taking up this practice and now I can count my blessings. There is so much to be thankful for. So I’ve decided to continue my weekly gratitude post.

Why you ask? It gives me insight and helps me answer these questions: What gives us the courage to search for a life of meaning? How to find work that is meaningful? How to choose the right livelihood? How to work-balance your needs for security and money without losing your creativity and independence? How to avoid bitterness and cynicism? How to continue to practice generosity toward others when so often people in your environment disappoint you? What to do when you don’t seem to share the same ethics as the ‘others’?

I’m slowing realizing that adapting to change and being flexible is a skill that is best taught by being "forced" to change. I thought I was pretty adaptive but this skill backfires when you don’t find yourself in a adaptive environment. I welcome challenges. I even go looking for them. I never turn my back to a challenge, how difficult it might look. But I also savour control and security. I truly believe that every challenging situation brings the chance to grow wiser and more skilful. Even circumstances that seem most devastating carry within them the seed of a new blessing. However, sometimes it takes a while before the planted seed starts to grow. Transition asks a lot of patience. It is really hard not to become impatient. But those who search for these blessings will eventually find them. I did! Although it was a little hard to remain true to my values.

It's crystal clear to me that there's a new life-stage starting, with a set of new perspectives, better tools and knowledge and, I hope, a lot more fun, growth and learning ahead. I’m looking forward to the sail. Realizing that “I can't change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.” ~Jimmy Dean.

Many scholars once said that the Blessings of Life are the ways that lead to progress, happiness, and prosperity.

This week I’m grateful for the happening with my nieces at Drouwenerzand. An experience I don’t encounter everyday. Amazed with my mum, who went in all the rides I was too scared to go into. Chuffed with the farewell dinner I had with my nearly ex-colleagues.

Pleased I could be of some help for a person who is looking to give a new meaning to her work-life. I didn’t know this person but she approached me through LinkedIn. I was dumbfounded by the similarities. Had a great afternoon getting to know her.

Blissful, being able to take pictures like this one. Had a good laugh. I was not the only one looking. They are looking straight back to me.

Tickled, after test-driving this car.

Thankful for being able to make my own Latte Macchiato.

Well finally this post has come to an end. Will go and do some hand piecing now and finish another baby Jane. Have yourself a good Sunday.