Monday, August 24, 2009

Connecting to My Roots and A Very Creative Summer

This has been a summer of connecting to my roots, my childhood and creativity! I've been canning everything from any and all seasonal fruits into jams, spaghetti sauces, bread and butter pickles, kosher dill pickles and more to come... I've also been writing, photographing and sewing. This photo is my latest creation - a pillow from some fun fabrics put together into a cheerful addition to my daughter's collection of pillows I've made for her over many years. This is my most fun one yet. I think I'll continue by making some festive pillows for my own couch, bed and guest room. I even tie-dyed a T-shirt! And, I might do more just for the fun of it!

I've had one of the most creative and fun summers I can remember in a long time! When I'm not at work, I'm hiking in the woods (something I do every day) and considering what creative project I can do next. Although it's been a particularly rainy, wet summer here in New England, I'm finding ways to make the best of time spent indoors.

Connecting to my childhood roots is like an obsession for me. For so many years I've done other things, in fact, anything that would take me away from what I learned in my childhood. Now, in this economy, much of what I've learned is helpful and, perhaps, essential. I am enjoying re-learning how to can anything. I'm wondering what will be next.

I am writing about projects I'd like to do this winter. I'm already planning knitting, sewing and spinning projects. I think I might enjoy this winter as well. Focusing my creative energy into what I can make is inspiring and energizing!

What are your creative projects?