Here is my progress on the Fiona mat. You can see I am still developing the design. And of course, I don’t yet know the date. I’m thinking of a row of dancing hearts across the bottom and the date along the right hand border. Around the very outside will be a couple of rows of dark to echo the colour of the text. I like hooking anytime, but I find it the best activity when I am trying to process a big trip and return to my life here. Calming, meditative, productive. 
And here is a burst of bright colour from my trip. This is Catalan fabric which is woven in the south of France. When I was last in Collioure in 2011 I bought some of this fabric and made some small pouches. I was delighted to find the store still in the same place still selling their famous stripes. I bought enough to make several totes and will pair the fabric with leather bottoms and straps. A great combination. The fabric is durable as it is woven for deck chairs and the colour is unbeatable. Stay tuned for these gorgeous totes.
I think I will have to pre-order something in that fabric from France!! Great memories shopping with you, not to mention our fabulous apartment for the two weeks. So wish I could have joined you this year.