Great New Blog!

Go take a look at Island Hearth and Handicrafts. It's my friend Angie's new blog and I know you'll find it as terrific as I do.

Angie is a wonderfully talented woman, creating absolutely phenomenal works of art out of many different mediums. Several needle felted creations are pictured now. I can't tell you how detailed and amazing these pieces are. I've watched her create several of these pieces and it never fails to astonish me how a simple piece of wool roving and a barbed needle can become such beautifully realized pieces of art.

In addition to being so talented with a needle, Angie also creates the kind of home that many of us wish we'd created. Weekly visits to her home (along with a couple of other friends and their children) are a staple in my life. One that I wouldn't give up for anything. It almost feels like we've slipped back in time there - all sitting around with handwork, not only recreating the kind of supportive network for ourselves that has existed in decades past for women and children, but finding simple joy and beauty in what our hands create.

Angie's definitely been an inspiration to me and I know she'll be one to you too.

As I said in a comment on your blog, Angie: Welcome to the world of blogging. The Blogsphere is a better place with you in it!

Back Among the Semi-Coherent and Almost Relaxed

Sorry for the prolonged absence. To say that things have been "busy", "chaotic" or "stressful" really doesn't even begin to explain how life's been around our neck of the woods lately. My mother recently underwent heart valve replacement surgery and the build up to the surgery, as well as the very long two weeks after surgery, were stressful and occasionally frightening. I'm very pleased to say though that things seem to be looking up. I think we'd all agree that it's about time. We're all looking forward to relaxing and enjoying the remainder of our summer.

Many, many thanks to those of you who have been such good friends to me, both online and in real life. Your support has meant the absolute world to me and my family.

Oh, and Mom? I can't tell you how grateful I am to have my best friend back home and ready for a chick flick marathon. Love you.