I like to think it happened because Valentine's Day fell on a Monday.
And because I have absolutely no sewing time on most weekends. I play with the kiddos all weekend (and drive them around a lot) while my husband's at work. He returns home minutes before they go to bed, helps out with a few chores, and then wants quality time for us. Poor me, right? People, my life is the best - just little time for making.
And it could have happened a little because I took on three big projects, planned my time poorly, and began my making way too late. However I still think that it's that darn Monday that's to blame!
I did not finish my kiddos' gifts.
I wanted to make them quilts like Erin's but I only got this far...
And i only sewed the D - I - D for David...
And this is Abby's rabbit...
I was feeling defeated - and a bit sad - until I turned to my address book for some sound advice...
And then it came to me ...I would give my family the gift of my time, my undivided attention when they spoke, my help in crafting valentine's for their friends. I would give them the gift of a mama who breathed more deeply and time spent in the kitchen baking brownies. I also gifted them each a small box of chocolates and a special love note. Everyone was happy. Thank goodness for wise quotes in address books. (Wise address book available here.)
Ezra and David have birthdays coming up in March and April and their quilts will become birthday gifts. And Abigail will receive her bunny rabbit just in time for spring solstice. All is well again.
This is the result of a a girly who grabbed a big pair of scissors and cut through a dozen 'pixy stix' at once only to make a huge mess on the kitchen table. When we gathered up all the sugary powder we found a heart.
Wishing that all good things will be yours today!
What a wonderful gift you gave your loved ones this Valentine's day. And re-purposed gifts are the best--I just gave some knitting projects that didn't make their original deadlines as Valentine's gifts!
Posted by: Meg Evans | February 15, 2011 at 01:14 PM
Those quilts are going to be lovely! And the rabbit--too cute! But time is, indeed, a better git. : ) Good reminder!
Posted by: christina | February 15, 2011 at 01:15 PM
The gift of time is a wonderful and priceless gift for your family.
I had plans to make my kiddos little Valentine's bears but they are still in pieces so I am thinking maybe Easter? The bunny will be so cute for your little girl. I made them for my kids last year and they turned out adorable! Happy Valentine's Day to you!
Posted by: Andrea | February 15, 2011 at 02:12 PM
So precious.
Posted by: Gale | February 15, 2011 at 03:20 PM
Wise and wonderful ~ a great reminder of what's important in life :) Love the cute bunny you are making. Don't laugh but Steve wants a toy. I've settled on a bear (with his assistance).
Posted by: MrPuffy | February 15, 2011 at 04:39 PM
You are so wise!! You made the exact right choice. Glad you all enjoyed it!!
Posted by: Rose | February 15, 2011 at 06:48 PM
Beautiful hearts. Time is a precious gift, one that always seems to please when I take the time ;) to give it!
Posted by: Karen | February 16, 2011 at 12:55 AM
Perfect advice. Sounds like you had a wonderful day!
Posted by: jane | February 16, 2011 at 06:25 AM
I think you had the best day. Now you can enjoy all you projects. I love the button heart.
Posted by: Beth | February 16, 2011 at 09:03 AM
The best of plans, huh? It sounds like it all turned out a-okay anyway. And you've got yourself a reprieve -- no point establishing deadlines, they only disappoint you when they're not met. Those roses are gorgeous!
Posted by: Jodi | February 16, 2011 at 11:44 AM
What a great mama you are...I'm sure they love time spent with you way better than any gift (as wonderful as it might be) I'll bet that pixy stix sugar was fun to clean up! Keep smiling mom. Those quilts are going to be amazing. I'm in awe of the squares you've already done. Is that a little cotton rabbits pattern? You'll have to let me know how it turns out, I've always wanted to try one of those. So cute. Have a great week friend. Enjoy the sunshine!
Posted by: Lisa Q | February 16, 2011 at 01:28 PM
looks like your Valentine's Day was full of giving and receiving of love! those quilts are going to be absolutely beautiful. you are one awesome mama!! oh to be like you.
Posted by: kristyn | February 16, 2011 at 04:57 PM
Great little reminder that message is and so true. Glad you had some fresh air and sunshine to enjoy sounds like a lovely day you had together. Happy crafting friend, looking forward to seeing your finished projects whenever they get done :). Have a great week!
Posted by: Jen | February 17, 2011 at 12:42 PM
A perfect gift, indeed.
Those future spoils are going to be beautiful.
Happy Valentine's Day!!! ((( hugs )))
Posted by: dani | February 17, 2011 at 10:00 PM
Kids do thrive on our presence - physical and mental. I think you gave them the perfect gift. That said, I'm curious now to see how the quilts turn out with their names. I reeeeally like that idea.
Posted by: Its_Lily | February 18, 2011 at 10:11 AM
the gift of time is the best one! and those quilts will come together lickety-split once you get going. i'm getting ready to make another one soon!
Posted by: erin | February 18, 2011 at 04:01 PM
Wonderful post. Our time is what they want and need.
I will be trying out your granola recipe, sounds yummy!
Posted by: Rosemary | February 19, 2011 at 10:54 PM