Guess who got some machine time yesterday??
And I admit it - these last nine blocks were sewn as Leaders & Enders for each other -
I wasn't even very speedy about getting the hand stitching of that binding down...the mind-space that sewing takes has just been beyond my grasp for the most part over the past few weeks.
And now that we are coming out the other side - all I feel is emotionally exhausted. Like all of that pent up adrenaline over worry for my son has just all gone out in a big whoooosh leaving me just numb.
But that ends today. It's all good news from here on out.
Last evening (my time, afternoon Jason time) they moved Jason out of the ICU and to the regular neuro floor.
The PT came by and had him walking the floor. He is able to get up and get to the bathroom (But still has to have someone like his Dad be right there just in case.)
He may be able to come home late today or possibly tomorrow depending on how things go.
He had another MRI yesterday to see how things are going inside his head with the brain readjusting to fill the space the bigger-than-a-golf-ball sized tumor had been occupying for a while.
We still don't know what kind of tumor it is - we have to wait for pathology. So more waiting. But there is nothing I can do about that, even in my mama bear mindset.
So yesterday afternoon once the retreat was ready for the October Quiltvillians to make their arrival - I sewed. I finished up the last blocks I need.
Today the layout phase can begin and I haven't even decided yet which I'm going to go with.
I included several options in our Four Patch Fun challenge. So we'll see.
Part of me just wants this off of my to-do list. The other part of me wants it to be darling...it's likely to be gifted to a niece as she graduates high school.
I also have to thank amazing friends who've kept me in their thoughts over the past couple of weeks.
I had a box of neutral string strips show up from South Carolina on my doorstep!
I had a big priority envelope arrive from Alaska arrive yesterday full of bright pieces and parts - I need to dive into another string quilt! I want to! I need to!
And then there has been the gift of Quiltville Inn fabric related things coming my way - Project bag made by one of the October Quiltvillians! They are all making project bags this week and this sweet quilter brought me one. LOVE IT!
Back Side!
The Quiltville Inn Fabric is from Spoonflower and comes in a simply "Quiltville" (without the inn!) version as well.
This tote bag!!
My local friend has been hosting her own retreat at her house this week - her sister and two friends are here from Alaska, Arizona and Florida. The Alaska sister made this marvelous bag with another colorway of Quiltville Inn fabric, just for me!
She lined the inside with a beautiful Paris print!
So not only do I have these two wonderful and useful totes (I feel the love, ladies! I really do!)
Yet another friend presented me with some Quiltville fabric Fat Quarters - I love them!!
My bobbin, and my heart is full!
Even if my stomach isn't - I have a blood draw this morning to check my A1C and I'm dreading it. I haven't been the best over the past few weeks with what is going on, and there may have been some stress eating going on.
It is what it is. I'll get back on the bandwagon after I've gone through the shame of having to step on the cattle scale today and I'll know the results of the blood draw in a few days.
This morning? Black tea is not doing it for me. I'm packing my breakfast and will get a real coffee when all of this is done.
Today? Let the layout of the Four Patch Fun blocks begin.
Did you enter to win on the Lahinch Gift-Away post? Click back there if you missed it.
Introductory pricing: I've placed the Lahinch PDF pattern at 25% off - no coupon needed -through 10/31/25. Hurry now and save!
Simple shapes and easy piecing create a stunning repeat of pattern and secondary designs – All from a photo taken of a vintage tile floor white traveling. Full color photos, Optional piecing methods, and directions to press for success!
Quilt size: 80'' X 80''
And yes, there IS a Gift-Away!
I'll be drawing for two winners who will each receive a Lahinch PDF pattern from me AND:
An Atlantic Sky color roll from Cotton to Quilts. And yes, they have other rolls to enhance your stash as well:
Along with the beautiful Atlantic Sky roll, they've got other Ireland themed rolls in all of the rich colors you need from Golden Sand to Cliffs of Moher (Chocolate) and Autumn Heather (Pumpkin).And be sure to check out the neutral rolls as well!
Of course, you can envision your own color plan for Lahinch Just choose 4 colors that you like together and add a background where I used lighter sand.
We will draw for our winners on Monday 10/27/25.
Quiltville Quote of the Day -
Found this in my memories today, posted many years ago. Somehow it still fits!
I've learned that an emotional toll can be much more exhausting than a physical toll on our bodies and our mental health.
Last night I slept the hardest I have in a long time.
Taking things one step at a time. One hour at a time. One day at a time.

17 comments:
Hope ing the upward trend continues,
Glad you were able to sleep well and that Jason is on the mend. Your sewing machine is your "calming device"! Those fabrics are so cute!
Bonnie, so glad your son is up and about. My prayers have been with your family. It's the least I can do for all the joy, education and quilty love you have shared with us for years.
One day at a time. Emotional exhaustion is real. Great news about your son. Still lifting you all up in prayer!
So happy to hear your son is improving, I remember the stress from going through similar things with one of my sons. Thank you for the updates, still sending hugs and prayers.
I've made a few of those zipper bags in different sizes for family, they are well loved. Take care
of yourself.
Barbara Robinson
Sending hugs from California. And don't worry about your A1C test, it measures your levels over the last 2-3 months so the last few weeks shouldn't have any effect. - Debbie
Oh, Bonnie, my heart goes out to you and your family. I know all too well the exhaustion you're feeling. My husband died suddenly 2 years ago and I lived in a fog for the first 1 1/2 years. Couldn't eat and sleep was impossible. It's finally lifted (mostly) and now the exhaustion has set in. You'll get through it because you have to. Don't add more pressure to your already stressful life, though. Try meditation to calm your inner self. God is taking care of it all. Trust in Him.
Prayers for continued positive progress.
Last night you were exhausted but in time the waiting will creep back into your heart and mind. Sleep when you can and don't worry when you can't. Just follow your body's needs and don't add more stress about trying to fix it. Your whole family remains in thoughts and prayers.
Your adrenalin let-down is entirely normal. It's such good news that Jason is able to coome home soon. Breathe - and breathe again! Sending hugs.
Lifting you up in my heart while you travel this new road.
Great news to hear that Jason is out of ICU and has been up and walking.
Love the pretty bags and fabrics that you were gifted. Hugs, Jenny
hugs to you momma bear! give yourself grace in all you do.
Best news of Jason. Sounds like recovery will be quick.
Glad that Jason is doing well and will be going home soon. I know you'll feel much better when you're out there and can see/touch him and give him big hugs.
Many of us have ridden the surgery roller coaster for a loved one and we understand what you've been through. Things at home can get weird and disjointed but you have to do what you have to do. You'll get through it and have new perspective. Glad you have family, pets, and an emotional support sewing machine close-by. Hope the news continues to be good from the other side of the country. Those gifts you were sent are lovely!
I'm so glad you've had good news. Your blocks look lovely. Blessings and peace to you.
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