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One Year Ago

I like to regularly look back at what I was doing last year by going through my photo archive. In March 2025 I was pretty busy trying to keep my balance and calm through some tough times. This quilt made from thrifted fabric really helped.

I was also working on the first granny square project I'd done in decades.

I thrifted and refinished this table to serve as a stand for my sewing machines.

I also thrifted the curtain that I'm currently making into a quilted tote for my calendar project this year.

Seeing these photos is mildly distressing, actually. I was constantly bombarded by family drama in 2025, and tolerated a lot of inconsiderate behavior from others, which I am not doing this year. It's not that the situation has changed, it's that I finally put my foot down and started saying no to requests and activities that will result in my unhappiness.

Just last night I was asked again to do something that in the past I've done out of politeness. I don't care for it, and would much rather use my free time to quilt or crochet, but in the past I felt I had to participate to be a good sport. Only last March I got hurt doing this same thing, and the indifference to what could have been a major injury for me really upset me. My efforts were for nothing, and no one cared about how I felt.

I haven't forgotten that. I refused to go this year, and also stated my intention to never again participate. I did this politely and did not start an argument, I just flatly refused. That set everyone straight, and I spent the night alone crocheting and embroidering in peace. The power of the word no is an awesome thing. :)

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