Having already made my mum a similar bookmark, I decided to make one for myself. Given the current situation and the fact we are staying at home, it has made me focus on small things but also the bigger picture. I'm grateful for so much right now and have found it helpful to think about what I would like to achieve in this time. Not to 'hustle' or have unrealistic expectations of a million things I could do or learn or create. Rather what is important, can I prioritise the things I put off but really want to do. I'm still working full time but with kids evening activities on hold right now and no where to go at the weekends, I do have a more time.
I set my word of the year 'clear' as a reminder to focus on what matters to me. The word is written in my planner, on my vision board and a bookmark seemed another good way to keep my intentions clear!


The lettering is from the book Cross Stitch Designs by Ondori and I used Aurifloss to stitch on linen.


After pinking the edges of the linen I used a blanket stitch to sew it to a piece of Kraft-tex - I love how versatile Kraft-tex is - it's perfect for a bookmark because it adds structure. 


The last book I finished was Convenience Store Woman and I couldn't put it down. It's an easy read, with slightly weird characters and it was endearing. I recommend it.


I'm currently reading The Next Right Thing by Emily P. Freeman - I really enjoy her podcast, her voice is so soothing.
Next on my list are the books I bought for my birthday - The Testaments by Margaret Atwood and Ducks,Newburyport by Lucy Ellmann, which honestly I only bought because, as a worrier myself, I thought it sounded interesting and also because it's massive and I like long reads. If I had read the Amazon reviews I probably wouldn't have got it but that's the nice thing about going in to a book shop, you don't have other peoples opinions influencing you. 


It's been a difficult time as my Nan passed away last week, I really appreciate all your kind condolences on social media. I can't really process everything and although I am grieving, I suspect it hasn't really hit home. Ceremonies are an important part of the grieving process and I feel like it will pour out then. For now, what I can do is work hard, be busy doing things I like and immerse myself in projects that bring me joy, calm and contentment. One thing I am incredibly grateful for is having sewing in my life.