The Advent of a Haiku

By Lynn Adams


“The most meaningful gifts are made by hand.” –Lynn’s hereditary credo


“What can I make for these dozen loved ones requiring minimum expense and time for maximum charm, starting December 10th?”

– thought I had


Five Simple Elements for an Ornament

Circle
Crosspieces
Panes
Dots
Hanger

Supplies & Equipment

Wire
Felt
Circle cutting aid
Glue gun
Beads
Buttons
Thread
Fabric

Instructions

1. …with great enthusiasm
…
11. … anticipating total delight

“This design could be made in quantity for the native journey giveaway next summer.” – thought I had

Went to Joann’s…

Things I learned in the 1st Prototype:

Rotary cutters will not cut felt
Cutting circles causes back strain
My eyes are just barely capable of stringing seed beeds
Beads on wire do not want to lie straight
Wire does not want to lie in a circle
Pearl doesn’t stick

“The overall effect will probably be ‘funky’.” – thought I had

Instructions re-imagined and re-ordered

Things I learned in the 2nd Prototype

Glue is unruly
Wire is stubborn
Tools are noncompliant
Thread is uncooperative
Beads are picky
Buttons are deceptive
Needles are elusive
I need new glasses


“I’ll be lucky to get six done.” -- thought I had

“I think my first prototype is cute enough to give.” -- another thought I had

Instructions irrelevant

“Maybe I should stick to haiku.” – thought I had


it’s all connected
thunderclap and nematode
you dear one and me


Advent blessing to all!

Lynn Adams is a longtime member of St. Paul's.