My mom gave me a hand. 

I've been working on a quilt for my bed for a few years now. My goal was to get it done by the time we move into the new house. That deadline is fast approaching, and I haven't pulled out the quilt.

I invited my female relatives to a retreat last fall - or was it the year before? - time blurs. We visited and ate. The retreat center had an attached garage-sized crafting room. 

I brought the quilt project with, and lots of extra supplies. 

We all worked on some project or another - grandma painted rocks, mom helped where she wanted to (mostly cooked and visited), the other girls had projects to work on.

I took hardly any pictures. 

I enjoyed being in the moment, away from the daily drudgery of getting through life.

I put away all the expectations and "shoulds" and focused on doing the things I really enjoy.

My mom did the embroidery on the middle square. It's a pre-printed cross-stitch pattern which she traced in embroidery floss. I love that she was able and willing to help me out with such a labor of love. Quilting isn't done for the money or fame. It's a personal journey in creating a piece that can be used, and enjoyed for its visual intricacies. It is not something we create because it will save money. (HA!)

Why do I bother with this story? Because it's a good reminder of how I'm spending my time. I'm currently working through a 7 day TEAM (time, energy, attention, money) challenge. Where am I spending my time? How do I feel about it (physical, mental, psychological)?

Tell me. How are you spending your time? 

~ Andrea