Simplicity in a Complex World –
The more complicated things get in this crazy world, the more we crave simplicity. When we started our business, the internet was relatively new and for many quilters the whole dial-up thing (remember the sound of the modem connecting to the internet?) was a novelty.

If you follow me on Twitter or Facebook, perhaps you saw the article I posted earlier this week, about more high speed internet access being planned for rural areas.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/07/10/technology/10broadband.html?_r=1&src=tptw

In other news this week, there were stories about how many communities are having to cut back on their library funding, which is where many Americans have gone for internet service if they don't have their own computer.

I've found recent articles about internet access being a "right" very interesting – as many groups are calling for the US to get involved with making internet access available to all – or at least to more people – as it is in many places in Asia and Europe. In many cases to get a job one has to submit a resume or fill out an application online – i.e. can't get the job unless they have internet access.

Obviously if you are reading this, you have *some* kind of internet access. We have quilters from all over the world who write to us, to let us know they are so grateful to have a service such as ours. The last year when I traveled overseas so much, I met many quilter friends in person for the first time, with whom I'd been friends for many years! I still find that so amazing.

Next April I'll be taking a group of quilters to visit some other friends – Princess Mirah and her husband Carl Burman in Bali!

http://sewmanyplaces.com/tours/bali_0411.html

The trip is starting to fill up so if you are interested in joining us (and visiting Mirah's palace and batik factory) please contact Sew Many Places about a payment plan.

http://sewmanyplaces.com/contact.html

You can read more about Mirah's company Bali Fabrics (whose fabrics we carry) on their website.

http://www.bali-fabrics.com/shop/

This weekend we have family visiting for my stepdad's memorial service. When we all come together for weddings, memorials, and graduations, we are reminded of how precious each day is… and how it is the simplest things in life that bring us the greatest joy and the deepest sense of peace.

.. like a needle and thread and a quilt in your lap….