The early morning resonates with songs of birds as they return. Flowers and trees stretch forth their buds and leaves. The gardens burst with beautiful colors, infusing my soul with hope in this time of renewal. All around me, creation shouts, “Spring is coming!” However, this March morning I awoke to a light blanket of snow covering the trees and flowers, reminding me that sometimes the transition between seasons can be bumpy.

Christmas, rushing towards us, is a time of mixed messages and demands. We are encouraged to give to those in need and at the same time, are creatively targeted to desire items that we surely must want. We are implored to spend money on those around us while being admonished to have a simple Christmas. Adding children into the mix, we also hear their message, “but Mom…” So many voices vie for our attention in this season.

My heart sank as I unfolded the Irish Chain. After twenty-five years of use, the binding was separating. The quilt, a wedding gift from my mother-in-law Priscilla, needed repair. We chose to use her beautiful creation so it is constantly taken on and off our bed. As we fold it for the display rack, the fabric and binding are stressed, which cause the fibers to weaken and break. As I finger the aqua green fabric, I am determined to stitch the torn section back together.