Thursday, November 8, 2007

Puppet Theatre #2 and a Lesson in Love

I learned something important about love with this second Bend-the-Rules Sewing puppet theatre project.

Since both our names go on the gifts we give each year, I insist my husband participate in the gift making/purchasing/shipping process—it’s not all me. I hauled him off to the fabric store last week to choose fabrics for three puppet theatres.



My choice was the fabrics you saw in yesterday’s theatre project. This second theatre features Mickey Mouse fabrics and fringe trim as chosen by my husband.

I tried quite hard to dissuade him as I do not like this type of stuff at all and pushed him to consider other fabrics. “What about these?” I asked. “They would make great puppet theatres.”

But he was so proud of his choices that I felt ashamed of myself—as well I should.

So I held up each fabric bolt and cocked my head this way and that in consideration. “Hmmm, honey, I see what you mean. Yes, let’s get these—great idea!”

And I let him choose the fabrics and trim for the third theatre that I’ll show you on Monday.



Our grandchildren are going to love the theatres with the fabrics he chose—and I’m proud of my husband.

12 comments:

Ali said...

I try to insist on husband participation, but sadly if I waited for him to make up his mind, no gifts would ever be ready on time! These days I give him an A or B choice and hope for the best!

Good on yours with the Mickey joy though - you're right, the kids will love it!

Anonymous said...

Awww June, what a touching story. I feel the same way about some of my childrens choices in clothes, toys, etc. And find myself saying the same thing...how about this one? Or don't you want this one? But you are so right. They need a valued opinion too. Thanks for the reminder.

Anonymous said...

Great story June. I agree, when you ask for help you must let them pick.
I love it all. Looks great.

Rosie's Whimsy said...

Awwww....Junie, that's a great story. I am sure that theatre will turn out wonderful as well. You, my girl, are a good egg "-)

homespun living said...

What wonderful gifts! Thank you for sharing the story ~ a great lesson indeed.

Yummers! said...

WOW! The way you handled that fabric choice... you should write a book on 'creating a good marriage'. You showed him you value his opinion and so much more. He'll want to go back again. Marriage is so precious and it's our job to build our husband's ego and self worth. I've been married before, too. I can tell we're both good role models for our kids.

I didn't read any blogs yesterday... catching up today. Your puppet theaters are adorable. The children will love them!! The first one is my favorite. The colors in the patchwork are just beautiful. You get so much done... do you have a cleaning lady??
Hugs, Joni
PS Susan Branch has some cute jammies like we've been talking about.

Anonymous said...

First of all, you continue to be my hero: 3 puppet theaters! I haven't been able to bring myself to start even one, but am feeling more motivated by the day, thanks to you. Secondly, ha! I try to do the same thing with my husband, and struggle with the same issue! "We" need to be involved in the making of the gifts "we" are going to give, but let's stick with my vision, shall we? ;) Good wifely recovery there, June -- I need to work on that.

Lisa said...

On, these are adorable projects! You always inspire! In more than just crafting!

Anonymous said...

What is wonderful little lesson of love. I know that as mothers and wives, we all too often have that "you're not doing/wearing THAT, are you?" moment. When we value their opinions, we value them. Great post!
~Jan

Kristi said...

I really like your husband's choice for #2. I think the children will love it and it will mean more that Grandpa had an input.

Scrappy Moments said...

Great Story Junie :) The Puppets are too cute!


Angie

Anonymous said...

These theaters look great! I had a puppet theater when I was a child, and it's still one of my favorite toy memories. I'm afraid that I used to act out Romeo and Juliet with them. I was very weird...