The kid is gone — off to college– and on to new adventures. Last Tuesday was a rough day, but we’re all past it and settling into the new normal. I made sure to make the bed in the dorm room before I left so that his graduation gift had center stage — at least for a few hours. I’m pretty sure that he’s not using it because it’s hotter than “the hot place” in those ivy-covered brick buildings with no air conditioning available!
My sewing room has once again become my refuge. It’s cool and quiet here and my fabric stash keeps me company and it stimulates my mind. I’ve been playing with tiny blocks of coral.
Cindy came to spend a long weekend and she’s been helping at the farm. We started Saturday with an early morning estate sale. I snagged an old Irish Chain quilt in plain muslin and blue. I love it. However, it was pretty well- loved before I stumbled across it.
I’d like to try to salvage what I can. I love this color combination. It cost me a whopping $5. The edges are very rough and the thin muslin in breaking down in many places. What would you do with it? Maybe I can make some pillows?
After the estate sale, we headed back to the farm to can tomatoes and make a small batch of salsa. It took Cindy, Mom and I about 2 hours to prepare 3 bushels of tomatoes.
Cindy and mom worked through the evening hours to process the filled jars. These tomatoes will taste so good in the winter: chili, spaghetti sauce, stewed tomatoes, and vegetable soup dishes galore. I’m not sure that canning is cheaper than buying them from the store, but the taste is very special. They are definitely worth the work. Plus it’s a tradition.
Fall is certainly sneaking up on us.
The quiet is a new normal, and takes a bit of getting used to, but there’s a goodness about it too. Enjoy the transition, and give it time. Some days will be better than others. That blue and white quilt is so pretty, I’d fold it so the damaged edges are tucked in and put it on display somewhere. Canning would be much more fun with family; I never got to do that with my mom, so savor those moments. I think it makes the food that much tastier. Enjoy!
Happy to hear your son is settled and ready to start college. Hang in there!
That salsa looks delicious!
Chela — I just love canning season.
Hi Sandy! Aww, I’ve been sending good vibes your way. The hotter than “H” situation will change soon enough. In the mean time, he can enjoy the extra cushioning on his bed from your quilt. Those canned tomatoes just make my mouth water. I love tomatoes in every form but canned . . . for the winter . . . Y.U.M. What a nice tradition you can do with your Mom. I’m sure she loves every minute of it. ~smile~ Roseanne
What a find on the Irish chain quilt! Enjoyed reading this post and seeing the tomatoes canned and I can imagine how delish they are in the winter in stews etc!