Archive for August, 2008

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Joy in the Unexpected

Saturday, August 30th, 2008

Yesterday’s events proved that there is joy in the unexpected. To see a woman selected for a Republican Vice Presidential running mate was a shock. To further learn about her was even more alarming. I didn’t think that a person of her qualities, interests, and convictions existed in America or anywhere else, for that matter. Pro-life, anti-abortionist, gun-toting, mother of five children, one of which is a soldier, and another of which is an infant with Down’s – how refreshing it is that Sarah Pallin can and does take time to get involved in government. She seems like a genuine asset to the ticket.

That is not to say that I will vote for the team. I’m afraid that my head has been turned in favor of the other party. In spite of that, and on the side of human empathy alone, I have to say that I appreciate ALL of the candidates for the decent human beings they are, and for the good intentions they have.

Seeing the announcement about Pallin, as it was happening, was like suddenly spotting a marigold growing out of a sidewalk crack.  She is bright, sure of herself, and a good choice for the many segments of the population who will be drawn to her “goodness.”

Joy comes in all forms:  seeing fox dance in the moonlight, coming across a mama bear with two cubs, sipping a strawberry milkshake, discovering the undiscoverable, reading a good book, being creative and more. During the past few days, I’ve heard a lot of whining about how bad life is for so many people. I’m sorry, if that is true. No doubt, it is true. Good life v. bad life, is a matter of definition, and often depends on one’s way of thinking. With a deep seated faith in an improved future, I can only hope that all of the politicians have been listening to the issues of all Americans. Like the flower poking through the crack in the sidewalk, may joy continue to enhance our lives at the least expected moment. In the crucial days before the election in November, may we, as a people, find joy in each other, and wish each candidate the best, win or lose. We all have a say in what happens.

Patricia Cummings

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The Democratic Convention

Friday, August 29th, 2008

For the last four days, I sat riveted to the television, as if I were watching the World Series. Although, the choice of who will lead America next is not as much a matter of athletic prowess as it is endurance. Not being much of a political animal myself, other than to watch history unfold, I came away with some general observations. The first is obvious, we are all Americans, not “red states,” and “blue states.” The Republicans also want the best for this country. The Democrats just believe that they can achieve that goal better.

As I looked at the tens of thousands gathered, I saw the strong and the weak, the fat and the thin, the young and the old, the rich and the struggling. Their common denominator is that everyone in attendance was there because they care, and they want America to maintain its leadership role in the world, with a level-headed person at the helm of the ship of state.

I am convinced that it will be interesting to watch the Republican convention, a group of equally dedicated citizens who, at least theoretically, want the best for the nation although the proof of the pudding lately has been no proof at all.

What has become abundantly clear is the need to “fix” a laundry list of issues that have not been satisfactorily addressed:

1) the need for affordable health care

2) adequate care for veterans, and homeless veterans

3) better educational opportunities for young people

4) the need to end our reliance on foreign oil and to develop alternative, renewable sources of energy.

5) and the wish of the American people to leave Iraq and the financial waste it is causing.

Viewing the overall picture of what is currently “wrong” with this country, it would seem that greed is at the root of a lot of the problems. Corporations have a lot to do with bleeding the public on every level.

The lack of knowledge about sound money management is the other side of the coin. My father, John E. Grace, was a very astute man who founded no less than 17 Credit Unions in the state of New Hampshire. He did so to give the little guy a hand up. His sound ideas about money are invaluable lessons that I learned as a child. These include:

1)� Save for a rainy day.

2)� Don’t borrow what you can’t pay back.

3)� Work hard, and live within your means.

4)� If you can’t afford it, don’t buy it.

5)� The concept of “shop and save” is a stupid one. If you are spending, you are not saving.

All of that advice has stood me in good stead. Other Americans were not so lucky as to have a parent like mine. If we look to the federal government for a good example of how to manage money, we will not find one. Social Security could be endangered, something that goes against the grain of every hard-working American who thought that he or she was earning the right to retire. Soon, as we Baby Boomers continue to age, and will need nursing home care. Just who will provide the cash for those places that only the rich can afford now?

Yes, it is “time for a change.” In November, I hope you will vote. Whatever your political affiliation, get to the polls and help make a difference by letting your voice be heard via your ballot. As just about every person who spoke at the convention said: “God bless you, and God bless these United States of America!”

Patricia Cummings

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Eastman-Lord Museum, North Conway, NH

Thursday, August 28th, 2008

If you like to step back in time, as we do, then you would enjoy visiting historic houses. There are more of them than expected, and yesterday, we discovered one that is a pip.

Now, while most people, these days, may think of N. Conway, NH as a shopping mecca with outlet stores, or else, a town that features skiing possibilities, I have a new appreciation for the town. In the building we visited, the Conway Historical Society which is helping to preserve the past.

We enjoyed the “Victorian parlor,” in mostly black or dark colors, and with a hand-painted wooden “firescreen.” Everywhere one looks in the house, a piece of the past is waiting to enjoy. There are pieces of clothing, from a soldier’s uniform hanging on a mannequin in the kitchen to an old Shaker style, wool jacket in a closet. There is a “woman” in mourning, completely draped in layers of black, from head to toe, with lots of lace. We were shown some “long johns” previously worn by President Grover Cleveland. He had an astounding waist size and does not appear to have been too tall. I know the waist measurement, but I’m not saying!

The different styles of furniture were grand, from the Murphy bed, to a rope bed with a homemade mattress, stuffed with the most amazing “stuff.” Again, I ain’t sayin’ what! Don’t want to give away the store!

From ephemera, to a collection of millinery pieces, to the history of the people who lived in that house, the place is enchanting, as was our guide, who knew so much about everything. Thank you, Susan! The collection spans the years from 1818-1945, and includes some Abenaki Indian artifacts. The Abenakis came down from Quebec to trade.
On such a hot day, the fact that there is an ice cream store next door was a blessing. I did not have to be invited twice!

To learn more about the Eastman-Lord House, click on their website. I will tell you right now, the photos don’t do it justice. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit, as would anyone, especially those who love Victoriana. The place has limited hours and is open until Labor Day. There are other goodies awaiting, about which I have not even hinted! Here’s the link:

http://www.conwayhistory.org/eastman_lord_museum.html

Patricia Cummings

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The love of reciting ailments is growing more dear

Wednesday, August 27th, 2008

When we were kids, we would wake up in the morning and decide what we’d do for the day. As young adults, we might have done some of these activities:  walk the baby, do the housework, go bowling or swimming, work on an oil painting, visit friends, read, sew, go shopping, and/or go to work!

As baby-boomers, many of us wake up to pain:  Backaches, leg aches, all-over aches, and a myriad of other problems. Just when one issue seems to be resolved, two more take its place.

Much as we might wish to remain upbeat and not bore our associates with our health complaints, when the opportunity to whine presents itself, let’s face it, most of us do. I’m referring to the female population, but come to think of it, I had several uncles who seemed to relish their recitations of ailments.

I believe the problem starts when someone says, “How are you?” The accepted answer is, “Fine, thanks. How are you?” There should be no mention of your pet goldfish taking its last breath, your dog being run over by a wild kid on a bicycle, or the aggravation of young people constantly littering the sidewalk with candy and cigarette wrappers.

However, people, including me, take the question, “How are you?” too  seriously. We reflect for a moment and then say something like, “I’m fine, although I have not slept well lately, my large toe is swollen, and a mosquito bit me, leaving a swollen lump on my ankle that “itches” to beat the band.”

Those three little words, “How are you?” can unleash a veritable assault of words heaped upon the unsuspecting soul who asked the question, leaving him or her to shift from one foot to the other, eyes rolling back into unconsciousness.

I vote that we avoid those three words altogether, but now the conundrum is to choose a greeting as a replacement. “What’s up?” sounds fresh, and opens one up for some unexpected comebacks. “How’s it going?” (How’s what going?”). “What’s happening?” makes it sound like there should be something happening, and if not, you are pretty durned boring.

Like everyone else, I don’t know what to say to greet people. I only know that the words, “How are you?,” open Pandora’s Box. If you use them, beware. The result may be more than expected, and after listening to a litany of complaints, your toe may begin to twinge, your ankle will be in need of scratching, and you may be sorry you asked.

My rule of thumb:  If you can avoid it, never ask anyone over the age of 45, how they are. They just might tell you. Unless you are a doctor who is being paid to listen, you may be counting the seconds as to when the ailing person will just be silent. Praise God for silence.

Be well.

Patricia Cummings, … Don’t Get Me Started On My List! …
Quilter’s Muse

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The Four Seasons

Tuesday, August 26th, 2008

“The Four Seasons” is the theme of an antique piece of fabric. Living in New Hampshire, I have always loved the four seasons. I believe that people who  live elsewhere get cheated. Of course, if you live in Vermont, you get an extra season:  Mud Season.

Today, we had some errands to run. As we rode along the highways to reach the other side of town, I could not help but notice the purple-topped grass, by the side of the road. It was as though someone had taken a paintbrush and just swiped the top of the grass to color it. However, this is a late summer occurrence. That grass is present, earlier, but stays green until now.

We continue to see a lot of Wild Turkeys. They boldly strut, wherever they want, usually without a male in sight, except for mating season. We did see a lone male turkey, a few weeks ago. During hunting season, they must smell the guns or something, because they all skedaddle to the underbrush.

The Webworms are prevalent at this time of year. I haven’t checked our yard yet. One can always take a broom and dislodge the “web,” after which birds will come along to dismantle the contents, in a feeding frenzy.

This morning, we saw a pair of Goldfinches. They are attracted to the tall, yellow, Evening Primrose plants that have little seeds to eat. Today, we saw the birds in another patch of yellow flowers.

This time of year, the blue of bodies of water looks even more blue. The clouds are fluffy and not ominous like thunder clouds.
We are enjoying good weather, as we sail into another season:  autumn. As usual, I’m looking forward to crisp apples, cool weather, and traveling around a bit to see the foliage. And, of course, I’m anticipating more reading, needlework and quilting.

Patricia Cummings

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Inspiration All Around

Saturday, August 23rd, 2008

The other day, I took a notion to go to the cemetery to plant some chrysanthemums on the graves of my parents and brother. I am always inspired, in such places, as to how different the stones are, and what kinds of plants and trees people plant there. It has been a long, hot summer, so we did not have a chance to go there since Memorial Day.

How quickly the grass takes over! Seeing the grass, choking out the flowers we’d already planted, made me think about life itself, and how easily our creative spirits can be dampened or damaged by intrusions by people or activities that zap our creative strength, leaving little to selvage.

One way to regain a happy disposition is to get in the car and go to the mountains or along the shoreline. I’m glad we took one day away from work, this week, to do just that. When I took Jim’s picture, I wanted the RED boat in the distance to show. What a beautiful day we had, with “happy” clouds looking like white cotton balls in the sky!

I enjoy riding through the countryside, and I often think how wonderful it is to see green living plants, instead of tall buildings. I’m just not cut out to be a “big city girl,” but perhaps if I were in New York, I’d be seeking out the green spots there. Sometimes, when I think of it, I take along a sketch pad and some colored pencils in the car, mainly to jot down ideas for future designs.

The wildflowers this year have been abundant in their glory. Why are the best ones located near a highway where it is too busy to stop, even to take a photo?

In our own yard, a Trumpet Vine that we’ve been nursing along for years now, decided it liked being transplanted this year. It edged its way up over a Lilac bush, and is now hanging over the back driveway, blooming to beat the band: with gorgeous, slender, orange blooms that Hummingbirds love. I guess there is a lesson there, too. Fuss over anything too long and it may start to shrivel up and die. Just let it be, and it will thrive.

Personally, I’d rather think of flowers, both garden variety and wildflowers. They are so lovely and soon their colors will be replaced with the splendor of autumn leaves. We seem to have them in abundance in New Hampshire, as green turns to orange, yellow, red, or rust colors.

Take a walk. Look around. There is some kind of inspiration, at every turn. Think about how quilts were designed in the past. They were based on nature. Many still are.

Give yourself permission to be creative.

Quilter’s Muse

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School House Museum

Thursday, August 21st, 2008

Jim Cummings in Maine - 2008Yesterday, we traveled to the Camden, Maine area. One good reason for doing so was the view of Penobscot Bay. A second reason was to dine by the sea. The third draw was to see the Lincolnville Historical Society’s SCHOOL HOUSE MUSEUM. If one were not looking for the place, it would be easy to drive past, as the building in situated a ways back from the road, on a slight hill, and between other buildings.

Above:  Jim Cummings standing in front of Penobscot Bay, Maine.

The second floor of the museum holds some definite treasures. Letters for practicing the Palmer method of penmanship are situated lengthwise, along the top of the blackboard. They reminded me of my parochial school background and how we had to practice letters and were graded for our penmanship skills.

Three different types of Civil War bullets were displayed inside a glass case, along with some photos. A nightgown that was worn on a wedding night was surprising large and had long sleeves. A corset was mystifying. What a contraption! A large display panel described how families used to take a bath, once a week, and always on Saturday!

I was privileged to see three of their quilts, although they are not on display right now. One was an all-cotton Butterfly quilt in fabrics from the late 30s/early 40s, I’d hazard to guess. The quilt has sashings, and is tied.

The two other quilts were Crazy Quilts, one more fancy than the other (fabrics of velvet or velveteen, and fancy stitches). The second quilt had quite a story to it. The quilt belonged to an elderly gentleman of poor means who lost his life when his house burnt down around him, leaving only one item:  a trunk with the Crazy Quilt inside. That quilt is slightly stained and has some torn pieces and shredded silks. The stitches were crudely rendered and could have been the work of a child. For some reason, the quilt was spared and now we can just speculate on its reason for having survived.

Among other items, the Museum has collected Native American artifacts, a canoe with hand-hewn paddles, Early Settler’s Tools, more than 5,000 Old Photos, and many pieces of ephemera including Genealogical documents, and town records including birth, death, and census logs.

We very much enjoyed visiting the Museum. It is open June to October, M-W-F and some Saturdays, 1-4 p.m. Admission is free. (207) 789-5445, e-mail:  iNFO@LINCOLNVILLEHISTORY.ORG The building was built in 1892 and used as a school until 1948. A visit there was like a step back in time.

Patricia Cummings

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Remembering John Denver

Monday, August 18th, 2008

Yesterday afternoon, I turned on the PBS TV station to take a brief break from chores. You can count on PBS to offer fantastic programming and yesterday was no different. As part of a pledge drive, the feature was the life and music of John Denver. In the space of the 1/2 hour, that I watched, I learned all kinds of new information about him.

He gave a concert in China. His father was an officer in the Air Force, a “fly boy” as they are called (in the Air Force), and that is who first inspired him to be a pilot. John’s real name was “Dusseldorf.” He took the name of his favorite city, “Denver,” as his stage name. His wife was interviewed and is very beautiful. She mentioned John’s highs and lows and attributed that to an “artistic temperament.”

The one obvious fact about John Denver is that his words and music touched us all. “You fill up my senses, like a night in the forest.” He presents word imagery over which one can linger and try to visualize all the descriptive phrases. That is why his songs are never boring. One can’t really catch the words and their meaning with the first listen. John loved nature and donated a terrific amount of money to environmental causes.

Seeing him perform a tune with Johnny Cash, who has also passed away, reminded me of viewing photos in which all the people have now crossed to the other side. Extending that thought, I began to think of the musical “greats,” who performed in my lifetime, and who are no longer here, John Lennon at the top of the list. They left an indelible mark on our hearts and in our souls, that cannot be erased by time. You see, the way we craft words, does matter, and the more universal the theme, the more likely songs will be remembered.

John Denver spoke for many of us. For example, I never sang, “Take Me Home, Country Roads, to the Place I Belong,” more heartily than when I was missing the tranquility of a home “far away.” John Denver’s music can, indeed, be absorbed at face value, but when one perceives his words, at a deeper level, they may have a bittersweet quality, as noted on the PBS show.

An enigmatic person and an extremely gifted one, we question why he is no longer with us. It doesn’t seem fair. With the gift of technology, his music still is heard:  “Sunshine on My Shoulder Makes Me Happy.”

Here’s wishing you sunshine, “prayers, and promises,”

Patricia Cummings

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Do you keep a diary?

Sunday, August 17th, 2008

My first diary was about 1″ large and had a key enclosure. It was a gift. When I found that my mother had been reading it, when I was a teenager, and left it unlocked, I believe I discarded it.

For about the last ten years or more, I have regularly written journal notes about quilting activities, inspirations, illnesses, and aggravations.  Sometimes, I’ve drawn illustrations and added color with colored pencils. It’s fun to re-read “back issues” periodically.

I suppose that is just one more thing I have in common with the person whose life I have been researching. She kept a diary and she illustrated many of her letters. Fun to see, and these types of things will be including in my upcoming CD, soon to be released.
I’m going to take some time today to read my diaries and to look at notebooks full of photos of quilts and quilted items I have made. It will be gratifying to review some accomplishments.

I also have a film of the first quilt history talk I ever gave … in 1991, I believe. I may shudder when I view it, #1: because today more is known about the subject than ever before, and #2: I know a lot more today, these 17 years later.

Your diary doesn’t have to be really fancy. I like those blank books with a hard cover. One can even buy them with quilt patterns. Whatever you do, keep it fun.

Patricia Cummings

Quilter’s Muse Publications

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Trip to Portsmouth – Part II

Thursday, August 14th, 2008

When one comes across something unexpected and delightful, the sudden awareness is always a joy. What better advertising for a yarn shop that to have a “sheep” standing amid the pansies. The photo below was taken in front of a brick building that houses a business called “The Yarn Basket.” Their phone number is (603) 431-9301. We found this to be a charming display.

As we were walking to the Warner House, another historic building which, unfortunately, is closed on Wednesday, we saw a most unusual site. Right along the side of the street were cemetery vaults from 1847, just three of them, I believe, with just the name of the person enterred there. These were located underneath the small cemetery plot above, rife with crosses.

Portsmouth is a walking town, as parking on the streets is limited, and a lot of the streets are one-way. Wear comfortable shoes or sneakers if you visit. The terrain is hilly. Also, print a map before you go. The streets are not laid out in a systematic fashion, and it’s easy to get lost. You will at least want to be able to find your way back to the municipal parking garage.

Sometimes we see harbor seals, romping about, but did not go to Prescott Park yesterday. The Tall Ships will be visiting this weekend, an event that draws multitudes. With antique stores and small boutiques all over the city, Portsmouth has a lot to offer.

Patricia Cummings

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