June Reflections: Renovations, Quilts, and Sweet Summer Moments

June Reflections: Renovations, Quilts, and Sweet Summer Moments

I can hardly believe the year is already half over—how did we get here so fast? June felt like it flew by, especially with all the house projects going on. The big news is that the kitchen re-framing is finally finished! We had help from one of our sons, and after four long, hot days (we’re talking upper 90s every day), we managed to get it roofed in.

We’re still tearing out one of the interior walls, which means lots of plaster-lathe dust and mess everywhere. But I keep telling myself—it’ll all be worth it in the end. We’re reminding ourselves that there’s no strict deadline; we’re taking it one day at a time to keep the stress down.

I actually look forward to our trips to the dump to get rid of the old materials. It gives me a good excuse to enjoy a peaceful drive through the countryside—windows down, warm breeze, and the gorgeous rolling hills and mountains in the distance. I love passing by blooming gardens, grazing calves and baby goats, lush cornfields, charming old barns and churches, and rolling over Dry River (which isn’t so dry right now!).

Another big change this month: we had a new gas furnace and central air installed! After 35 years of living with window units, we can’t believe we waited so long—what a game changer.

We also got to enjoy some family time earlier in the month when we visited one of our son’s families for an important milestone celebration for one of the grandkids. And last week, while the guys were busy with the kitchen construction, our 7-year-old granddaughter attended "Fiddle Camp" here in the Shenandoah Valley. She did such a wonderful job at the concert—so proud of her!

On the business side of things, I’ve been busy finishing up some embroidered baby quilts and designing a new patriotic quilt pattern using a stunning eagle panel I bought last year. The panel is called "American Spirit" by Dan Morris, in those rich reds, blues, creams, and golds—just beautiful.

I’ve also been working on refining some of my fabric collections to submit to a well-known fabric company for possible licensing. Fingers crossed!

With summer in full bloom, I’ve been snapping lots of photos to use for inspiration later in the year. I even managed to get a few good shots of the little bunny who visits outside my she shed every evening. There were also two baby skunks playing out there - adorable from afar, but I wasn’t quite brave enough to get up close for that photo!

I hope you’re soaking in all the joys of summer too—whether that means time in the garden, traveling, or just enjoying the little everyday moments.