A Perfect Day

Yesterday was a perfect day. Actually, it was a magical day. Here is a recounting: First stop was JoAnne's Fabrics where I bought some 32 count linen to practice on (I have been using only 28 count; so I wanted to try the count that the "big girls" use). Then on the way out of that store I spied the new issues of "Where Women Create" and "Somerset Studio." Major score!
Next stop, lunch at Panera. My Mom met me there and she was accompanied by some of her friends. My friends Sharon and Melissa came also. We all sat at one big table and had a most delightful time. We were there to eat before going to the Elizabeth Berg reading at a local library. While eating our lunch guess who else stopped by to eat? None other than the author herself! What a wonderful coincidence! We had a quick little chat with her and were able to tell her how much her books mean to us.

Then it was off to the reading; the Orland Park Library where it was held was a beautiful building. It was so inviting. The weather was perfect; clear, sunny with a lovely breeze. The spring flowers were all in bloom. I was surrounded by beloved friends; believe me when I say I was giddy! My friend, Patti (Creative Cottage Dreamer) met us there. She was the first to arrive and got the #1 ticket to get her book signed. It was exciting because Elizabeth Berg is her favorite author and she had never met her before. Also, my friend Kathy and her daughter, Jackie, came. They are big fans of Elizabeth also. We were there about an hour early which was great because it gave us time to chat and trade names of great books.

Elizabeth Berg's reading was just wonderful. Listening to her read from her novel is just like listening to a fairy reading a story. The feeling of joy in the room was palpable. Everyone was sharing a moment with an author who writes books that are so meaningful to them. Ms. Berg also answered questions from the audience; and she gave real, true, deeply honest answers that were so appreciated. She is just one of the coolest people I have ever met. Again, I urge you, if you can go to a reading by her; get there!

After the reading my Mom, her friend, Judy, and I went over to Judy's house. Judy is the mom of one of my best childhood friends, Julie, whom I have not seen in some time. Well, magically, perfectly, Julie called and said she was on her way over to her Mom's house so I got to surprise her and give her a big hug. The day was like that all day long; such perfect coincidences; a day full of surprises and deeply felt love for so many people, ideas, books, and soft breezes. Perfect.

The lovely 1920's patterns that you see illustrating this post were part of a perfect day my friend, Jane, had without me. She went to a garage sale and found these patterns for 25 cents each!!!! Total score! Aren't they just gorgeous?

We really are lucky people around here.