September ...

I always think of September as a fresh beginning. I know that's pretty basic because the kids go back to school and it really is a new beginning. But even now that mine are grown, married and not a part of my daily life, I still feel this freshness about September.

It feels hopeful to me. To watch the gradual colouring and falling of leaves reminds me of my childhood and for some reason I suddenly get ideas and plans surging through my brain.

This morning I wake up thinking of a quilt that I started about 15 years ago that now sits in a box along with many forgotten unfinished projects. I start digging through my "craft closet" to find it but I'm taken off track by a box of painting supplies. I start to contemplate these when my hand opens the next box. This one contains scrapbooking supplies. Casting aside the painting box I'm caught in the spell of scrapbooking. Then I catch a whiff of lavender essential oil and spot my box of soap-making supplies. As I reach for this box my eye is drawn to the next box which contains a mountain of beads and beading accessories. My brain spins with excitement as I envision myself wearing my own beaded creations.

Then I have another vision: me, sitting at a table at the annual Christmas craft fair. I'm surrounded by quilts, paintings, scrap books, fragrant soaps and beautiful beaded jewellery. My eyes have dark circles under them and I can't speak. My creations are reflections of my personality: confused and overwhelmed. I realize that I must pick a craft - any craft...but I can't do it. Back to reality now, I return everything to their respective boxes and quietly close the closet door. Then I climb back into bed.

September - shorter days full of vivid colours, hopeful thoughts of new beginnings. Wake me when winter arrives.