Feeling a bit scattered. I’ve had these photos on my desktop for a few days, all ready to post, but I haven’t had the brainpower to compose any thoughts to go with them. Fortunately, they’re light fare, so I’ll give it another go.
The polkadotty flower pin is a goody that sprang forth from these happy
wrappings. (There was a big ol’ spiral lollipop too.) The two
flower/leaf buttons are bakelite and a happy Quilt Market find. (Yes,
there were some shopping moments.) Then came the horse and card... 
My
new dentist happens to be a mile from my favorite antique store
(regularly mentioned). Dangerous. I predict many hit-and-run shopping
jaunts. This time I ran in to check for must-have vintage buttons.
None this time. But, there was a necessary little horse. And a card.
(They’re both so tiny.) See the little girl on the inside of
the card? She’s absorbed in cutting paper, clickety-clack. Could it
be little-girl me? I didn’t even peek inside until I’d brought the
card safely home. Strange how some objects call your name.
Speaking of objects that call your name. There was a fantastic little
antique settee there that day that kept whispering, “Heather... oh,
Heather…” 
But, I wouldn’t adopt her until I found her a right place in
my home. That night, I fell asleep plotting out her makeover. The
exposed wood was to be painted turquoise and I would upholster her with
red & white fabric. If none could be found, I would paint the
fabric myself. She would have her choice of three prime locations:
the foyer, the morning room, or the master bath. Most notably, I was
determined to see this project through. And soon. 
So, I
skipped back to the store the next day, with two kids in tow and cash
in hand. And, there she was “ON HOLD,” in big letters. (Cue sound
effect, “Deflating Balloon.”) In all my shopping sprees at this
particular store, I never knew that they put items on hold (and the
workers there have witnessed me in debate on several occasions, I’ll
add). So frustrating! That “ON HOLD” sign should have been mine. That
settee should have been mine. I’m still not over it. We had a
connection, she and I.
Oh, settee, where are you?
Ah well, I’ll just spend that would-be makeover time with my cutie kids instead. Like Amanda, I’ve entered the review and re-format phase that inevitably follows a major deadline. What’s working? What’s not? Who needs attention? Who needs to play outside? How can we improve the system and recapture our rhythmn? I’ve been through this cycle many times and have come to appreciate the sweetness of reassessment. It’s a time to reflect on my priorities and recapture the passion and purpose that drives me. Goals are set, true. But also, more books are read, longer snuggles are shared and better meals are cooked during these times. Sweet memories surface and the entire family recharges. A good place to be, settee or not.
