A Special Day For Everyone

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Yesterday 7 ladies visited for lunch and endless cups of tea. We had an interesting gift exchange called "I-Don't-Want-it-Anymore." The ladies were ultra-polite and no one would volunteer to pick first. Everyone wanted to let all others go first and be last.

 

We did manage not to out-polite each other too much and eventually ladies took home the thing they liked best. I forgot to take a photo of the collection of items in the basket. There were hand crocheted trivits and homemade jellies, candles in very pretty frosted/etched jars, hand sewn aprons, and issues of tea-time magazine.

 

We studied the love of God from the Bible and sang the hymn "The Love of God." I found it on YouTube here.

Although I did not get time to send out any Valentine cards, I wanted to make a special one for all my readers and show you how to make one that is not too complicated. We all have homes to look after and people that constantly need us, so simple projects are the best.

You can get these paper hearts at the dollar stores in white, pink and red.Glue them on to paper or card stock in a contrasting color so that it shows through the lace nicely.

Try a white backing with red hearts and a red backing with white hearts, for contrast. Then add whatever clip-art you have on hand, placing all the do-dads in a balanced way.

I used some glittered foam hearts that have sticky backing, and some stick-on paper flowers. Since the word "love" is embossed on these lace doilies, I filled the word with a coordinating color felt pen.

Find ribbon or string and tie it through punched holes. I used something called metallic cord, found in fabric stores.

Another thing I found at the dollar store was packages of ruffled fabric chiffon hearts in red and pink. I thought it might easy to use them to make a Valentine necklace, using the cord, tied in a bow at the back.

To make this easy necklace, peel off the paper on the back of each heart and stick the heart on the chord.

Then turn the necklace over and re-stick the dots of paper you peeled off, to secure the heart and keep the extra sticky areas covered. You can hand stitch these if you like.

 

 

Hearts are a year-round favorite and there is no reason that something like this could not be given to someone any time. In the U.S. , Valentines day is for everyone and we use it as an opportunity to express sentiment in special ways, from the making of special tea parties or meals, to giving pretty things to children, friends and family.

While I was putting these things together I was thinking how important courtesy is in making life tolerable and enjoyable even in difficulties. Some people say that the Bible has nothing to say about etiquette or polite manners, but a big part of the teachings of Christ are about treating others with love. That is the essence of courtesy.

Sometimes people imply that niceties are trivial and affectatious or insincere and ridiculous, but even polite small talk has its place, as it keeps temperaments level and eases tense moments. When we are without power for heat and light, it is essential to put on our best manners because it makes the situation more tolerable.

When funds are low and the future is uncertain, you can still have your good nature and your politeness. In hard times, a sweet disposition is worth a lot.Looking after the comfort of others naturally makes us forget ourselves. In inclement weather or times of upheaval, statements like, "things will get better soon" and "can I bring you anything to make you more comfortable?" are so important. It keeps your mind off misery and focuses on making things better.

 

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