This week was my birthday, and I decided to take the day off and just do things I wanted to do with no time pressure or deadlines.

I started the day out to breakfast with my parents, which is always nice. It was a rainy day around here so a day spent traveling to stores and buildings was a better plan than a day at the lake or riverside parks.

I initially thought my day would be mostly thrifting, but after my 1st stop, I lost interest. I’m not sure why because I did find 2 very nice picture frames. As a grandmother, you can never have too many of these around.

I decided to check out the local Ollie’s to see if they had any old Joann stock, but all they had in terms of crafting supplies was the big, bulky yarns of which I’m not a fan. I did, however, stumble across a supply of cooling pillows. I have been thinking about getting new pillows for a while now, so this was a timely find!

My big “decision” was between bamboo fill or the ones marketed specifically as cooling pillows. My trusty AI co-pilot helped me decide and I brought home a pair of very nice new pillows just in time for Summer in a house without A/C. Being at Ollie’s, the price was also nice.

As I was leaving Ollie’s, I received a text message. It was from Michael’s, wishing me a happy birthday, and giving me the “gift” of 40% off any 1 full-price item. I decided to wander over to the store with the best sewing and fabric options in this area to see what I could find.

On the drive over to that Michaels store, I remembered that it wasn’t that long ago that a 40% coupon was a weekly offering. (sigh)

At Michaels I found a very nice piece of denim fabric on the remnant rack (0.85 yds!). It was priced at only $2 so I grabbed it, and also picked up a small remnant of cotton in a floral print ($0.25). For my coupon, I decided on a roll of lightweight Heat ‘n Bond. I’m almost out and I use a lot of it.

I have to pause here and admit that I was eyeing the Cricut Joy 2, on sale through the end of the month for $109 and that includes an accessory bundle.

I didn’t end up buying it because other than the occasional yarn or fabric themed sticker, I’m not sure I see the value of bringing yet ANOTHER craft into my home. After all, I am trying to downsize (keyword “trying”).

I was debating about going home when my sister called to wish me a Happy Birthday and reminded me that one of our favorite quilt shops was open today (unusual for a Monday) and that I should definitely give myself a birthday treat.

Well, who was I to go against that kind of advice!?! 😆 I turned my car toward the shop and hit the gas.

Once there, it was so nice to browse the many beautiful, and quality fabrics. I also very much enjoy the finished pieces (a number of bags and totes) with the accompanying pattern so that once we ogle the finished bag, we can get the pattern to make our own.

I was tempted a couple times but remembered that I have multiple bag, purse and tote patterns at home, so I passed on that idea.

I did and up buying 3 “fat 8ths” which are 1/8 yard cuts. These are ideal for adding a panel of color or for making small credit card holders or wallets. I also found a panel piece (2/3 yd) featuring blocks of Laurel Burch cats.

The colors in the cat panel inspired me to buy a 1/2 yard piece in a matching color theme. I am thinking of making another one of my crossbody bags using these fabrics. I am also pondering how I could appliqué one of the squares onto the denim and use that as a panel in one of the bag patterns I have.

There are just so many creative possibilities sitting around in fabric and yarn shops!

My birthday ended with a trip up to see my 2nd youngest granddaughter play soccer. She’s in a league for 4 and 5 year olds and apparently was very excited that I was coming to watch. She announced that we would be going to Rita’s (Italian Ice) after practice to celebrate my birthday, and we did!

Too soon the carefree day off drew to a close and I had to think about getting work clothes ready, setting my alarm, and packing my lunch.

I’m a bit old to get worked up over birthdays, but a quiet day without deadlines, and that include a couple crafty stops, made me look at that looming retirement date with some fondness and anticipation.

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