Isn’t attitude everything? Sunday night I was reviewing my upcoming week. Yuck, four events that I didn’t particularly look forward to doing. But then I looked at my schedule again differently. I am grateful we have dental insurance — one hour every six months that is covered with our insurance; probably shouldn’t complain. Six hours once a month shopping and preparing a meal for 120 people in a homeless center–with close friends is a minor part of my month. I resent giving up my “free day”—but I know I spend more time than 6 hours on Instagram each month, hmmm.
Sometimes when I have a long “to do list” but I am physically or mentally tired, and all I want to do is lay on the sofa and read cozy mysteries, I must remind myself of a couple of things before I can make an attitude shift. What are my “live by values”? What I believe to be true and good determines my choices. These choices may be demanding but I must remember I chose them. Also, a good night’s rest always helps!
Also, I need to remind myself, perfection is over-rated! I will do my best, but I will not beat myself up because each detail of the event/project/responsibility was not perfect. Nor should I waste time and energy trying to make it perfect.
“Work smarter, not harder” which can include asking for assistance is a very important aspect when changing your attitude. It becomes very easy to feel “poor me” if you are also feeling “all alone and lonely”.
Why am I thinking so much about attitudes? Well, to be honest, I get a little overwhelmed by the Quilts Etc. Sale at this point. So much to do, so few days left. But, do I enjoy the sale? Oh yes! One of the high lights of the year for me. I love showing off our handcrafted items. Do I think it is important? Very! Significant monies are raised for two very important ministries of our Church. Am I doing this all by myself? No! Of course not! Approximately twenty five women work all year long creating hundreds of handcrafted items. Several men will contribute hours to helping set up and tear down the theater for the sale. Other men help with the sales–collecting money, carrying items to cars etc., so the quilters can be on the floor. Staff at FUMC helped with advertising and facilitating the transformation of theater to market. It is not a one-woman show!
I still have a super long to do list to complete before October 17, but you know what? I am going to have fun and enjoy the process as well as the production!
Our variety of items is amazing! Every week’s “show and tell” just keeps getting better.
For example-

This Halloween wall hanging could be from the early 1900’s. The pattern and fabric prints are straight from our grandparents time. It is 24″ x 36″. The machine quilting is a spider web design–perfect for the season. Mr. Cat and Mr. Pumpkin are machine appliquéd. $50

Treat bags for grandchildren or co-workers? Lined and only $5 each.

These pumpkins will last year after year for your fall decorating. They are not jack-o-lanterns so you could easily use this runner up until Christmas decorating. It is approximately 15″ x 45″ ( I forgot to get the measurements this week, but will have them later.) Machine quilted in the ditch. $40

We Kansans love our sunflowers! The floral panel is surrounded by autumn prints. 35.5″ x 48″. Machine quilted and hand bound. A hanging sleeve has been sewn on the back. $60

A set of two pillowcase –will fit standard size pillows. The interior seams are encased (French seams) so there are no raw edges. Include your bed when decorating for Autumn. $20
Are you planning on doing a lot of cooking this fall? These aprons are made from a heavier fabric than the usual quilt fabric. The apron on the left is a cross over style–no ties to mess with and it is double thickness with patch pockets of both sides $25
The apron on the right is a butcher apron pattern. Ties make it adjustable for your size. It is a single thickness. $15

Baby quilts are so fun, especially since we have quit being so “traditional”.



Happy little faces and bright colors on soft flannel make up this 36″ x 45″ baby quilt. Machine quilt and being hand bound, this quilt would make a great back drop for all those photos of baby. Very washable. $60

For the sophisticated parents–this light sage greens frames the floral prints and abstract prints is perfect. Gender neutral, it is 37.5″ x 54″. Machine quilted and hand bound–$75

Cloth baby books can be dropped in Church without a sound. They are chewable and easy to pack into the diaper bag! What a deal. $10


Two banners for the price of one! This reversible banner/garland can to used in both November and December–just flip it over. Wooden beads add a unique touch. $30 SOLD
We also have treat bags for Christmas!


These mug rugs were made from the Merrily line of fabrics –each animal has added an accessory for the holidays-scarve, wreath. Machine washable in case you spill your tea or hot chocolate. 4 for $30.
The Quilts Etc. Sale is a fun place to shop for family and yourself. The items are unique, locally handcrafted and reasonably priced. All the sales go to further ministries of the Church. I can’t wait to see you there!
PS–if you can’t be at the Sale, don’t forget anything you see on this blog is for sale today. I can mail anywhere in the US.