Answer: Things that are made of cloth

Kristin has an interesting blog post on Modesty. Which brought to mind an interesting incident that occurred last night at Pre-Sanctified Liturgy. You see, due to my poor planning, our transition from "home" to "car" to "church" was a hurried one. I forgot my fruit bowl for the potluck. I forgot my headscarf. And, caught up in the gloriousness of the sunshiney day, I opted for a knee-length skirt with bare legs. Honestly, I felt that there was nothing askew with my clothing choice. I don't usually wear shorter skirts without tights or leggings, but since it was such a glorious day, I didn't really think about it.

Once we got to church and I searched through the diaper bag and realized I did indeed leave my headscarf at home, I did the only thing I could do: Shrug it off and try to focus on God. Oddly enough, I felt so naked throughout the service. It was hard to concentrate (which can also be attributed to the fact that I did a poor job of maintaining a preparatory mindset for Liturgy throughout the day). It didn't help that--WHOOPS!-- knee-length skirts are horrible for doing prostrations. Horrible. Double the feelings of immodesty.

About half-way through the service, V. looked up at me and realized that something was "different." "Mommy, where's your scarf? Mommy, why aren't you wearing your scarf? Mommy, you NEED your scarf!!!" Now, I admit, V. can be a bit bossy and I very much try to maintain "Alpha" status with her (ack, that sounds so rigid... you know what I mean, right?). BUT, in this case, I had to nod my head and whisper "You are right. I forgot it. I will try not to forget next time." She admonished me (chastised me?) a little longer, with a trace of panic in her voice. I'm sure it had more to do with her being a creature of habit than anything else. But, I think she feels as much as I do that something just isn't right when certain things are missing. On a much deeper level, it was another reminder to actually prepare for holy services. I had spent the entire day lolling about, snacking freely (I wasn't planning on receiving Communion) and indulging in some filter-free conversation with an old friend. Eek.

On another subject, I wanted to post a link to this cute article I read yesterday. As a cloth diaperer, I deal with copious amounts of poo. Yes, I probably waste excess water and electricity washing them. But it feels like an industrious way to spend my time. To make my time at home purposeful. For this girl who used to fight the "homemaker" image tooth and nail, this is a humbling form of discipline that, oddly enough, has been good for my soul.

Lastly, I'll leave you with my latest quilt for my soon-to-be niece, "B" (on Job's side of the family). The colors match her gorgeous nursery :)
Hand stiched monogram "B"... a little askew, but loaded with character, no? hehe :)


A close up of the colors I used.

A bunny!



A shot of the backside. I opted for a square-edged 'bullseye' quilting pattern. Sort of strange, but I liked the effect and it saved me from tons of additional and tedious machine-stitching (read: lazy).

What now? I'd like to make another baby quilt for Susy's nouna (she's having her first baby soon, and I didn't pick up quilting until a few weeks after her own baby shower-- I can't forget her!!!). I'd also like to make a quilt for our bed, but of course, projects for myself always seem to come last ;). At the moment, I am taking a brief breather from quilting and working on some other projects... namely, a dress for V.! If it turns out all right, I'm hoping it can be a Pascha dress :)

Thanks for your interest and enthusiasm in my "Quilt Series!" I'm so glad you liked them, it's fun to get some feedback and to read your lovely comments. While I am probably the worst entrepreneur ever and won't be cranking up production for the theoretical, fantabulous etsy shop , I do indeed LOVE to make gifts for people. So if you are interested in a custom-commissioned gift, I'd be thrilled to help! E-mail me if you're interested. I also work for cookies, coffee, your art, handmade crafts, etc., etc.