Author: Cat

Long Lines Students Sew Pillowcases for Ryan’s Case for Smiles

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On October 3, 2026, the “Long Lines” beginner sewing students continued building their sewing machine skills—and put them to work making pillowcases for Ryan’s Case for Smiles.

This month, students learned how to thread their machines and balance thread tension. They also began learning about the all-purpose presser foot and how it is used for everyday sewing.

For their first project, students used pillowcase cuff and body templates made from recycled election signs to cut their fabric pieces. They learned the “hot dog” method for sewing the cuff to the pillowcase body.

Next they learned two different ways to finish their seams: a zig-zag clean finish and a French seam.

The finished pillowcases will be donated to Ryan’s Case for Smiles, which provides cheerful pillowcases to children in hospitals. Learn more about Ryan’s Case for Smiles.

A special thank-you to Wendy and Mike, who donated two bags of fabric for our students to use!

Want More Sewing Time?

Missed class or want some extra time at the machine? Join us for Craft Circle on October 17 at 11 AM, when you can sew, work on your own projects, or spend some time with fellow crafters.

Looking for a Halloween or Renn Faire project? You can also make the October craft circle project — a Three-Seam Cloak from a bedsheet and a spool of 5/8-inch ribbon. It’s a simple beginner-friendly project that can be finished in time for Halloween or Renn Faire season.

Coming Up in Long Lines

Our next “Long Lines” classes will be November 7 and December 5, when students will learn to make a basic 12-block quilt to donate to Project Linus, which provides handmade blankets to children in hospitals and other children in need. Learn more about Project Linus and check out their free patterns for knit, crochet, and sewn blankets!

For more information about Long Lines, Craft Circle, or donating cotton fabric, finished pillowcases, or finished blankets, email mysticgrove@orlandouu.org.

Preplanning for Heathens – Oct 14

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Planning ahead for the end of life can help ensure that our wishes are known and our loved ones aren’t left making difficult decisions during a time of grief. But for people whose religious, spiritual, or secular identities don’t fit traditional funeral practices, finding options that reflect their values can present additional challenges.

Join Tee Rogers for Preplanning for Heathens, a discussion about making our end-of-life wishes known, documenting our plans, finding affirming deathcare providers, and exploring traditional, natural, and emerging options.

The event is being held in honor of Todd, who died in 2025. His loved ones experienced challenges that might have been eased through advance planning. This discussion grew from a promise to create a space where people from underrepresented communities could think ahead about how they want to be honored, remembered, and cared for.

Wednesday, October 14 | 6–7:30 PM
First Unitarian Church of Orlando

This free event is open to all. Come learn, ask questions, and begin thinking about what you want your own final arrangements to look like.

Register for Preplanning for Heathens on Eventbrite.

Have Fabric to Donate? Bring to class on Oct 3!

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Our “Long Lines” sewing students are making pillowcases and small quilts that can be donated to children’s hospital charities such as Ryan’s Case for Smiles and Project Linus.

We’re always happy to receive cheerful, kid-friendly 100% cotton prints for projects suitable for kids and teens. Not glitter fabrics, please. The glitter can rub off and get in patient injuries. Thanks to Linda and Lynn for the most recent donations!

Fabric donations can be dropped off:

  • Saturday, October 3, 11 AM–1 PM during the Long Lines sewing class
  • Tuesdays and Sundays in the donation bucket at the Alliance Thrift Store
  • In the church front office during office hours with a note it is for sewing class

Are you a crafter? You can also donate completed projects! You can sew a pillowcase at home for Ryan’s Case for Smiles. Project Linus provides blanket patterns, and accepts handmade blankets in a variety of styles, including knit and crochet blankets.

Email mysticgrove@orlandouu.org for more info.

Craft Circle: Sewing Orientation

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First learn the basics, then comes the magic!

Have you ever wanted to learn to sew, but weren’t sure where to begin? Or perhaps you have a sewing machine sitting at home that you’d love to use—or finally learn how to take care of?

Join us for Craft Circle: Sewing Orientation on Saturday, August 15 at 11:00 AM in Gore Hall at First Unitarian Church of Orlando.

This orientation is designed so you can choose what would be most helpful to you. There are three ways to participate:

1. Learn & Explore — No Machine Needed

Thinking about buying your first sewing machine? Come learn what features really matter when choosing a beginner machine.

You can also try sewing on paper with no thread to get comfortable with the basic movements and controls of a sewing machine. It’s a great, low-pressure way to start learning.

2. Clean & Care — Bring Your Sewing Machine

Already have a machine? Bring it along and learn some basic sewing-machine care, including cleaning and identifying the proper oil points.

Please bring your sewing machine manual. Different machines have different maintenance requirements, and the manual will help us find the correct places to oil your particular machine. We’ll also talk about using sewing-machine oil and a cleaning brush/wand properly.

3. Open Sewing — Bring Your Project

Already know your way around a sewing machine? Bring a current project and enjoy some open sewing time with the Craft Circle.

Work on your project, ask questions, get ideas, or simply enjoy sewing with others. Sometimes the best part of sewing is having good company!

Whether you’re curious about sewing, learning the basics, caring for an old machine, or simply looking for some sewing time, there’s a place for you.

Bring a friend, your curiosity, and your creativity. Let’s learn the basics—then make some magic!

Saturday, August 15 • 11:00 AM
Gore Hall • First Unitarian Church of Orlando
1901 E. Robinson St.
Orlando, FL 32803

For more information: mysticgrove@orlandouu.org

Note:
“Cottage Witch Hat” was made by Lady Jai and adapted from the free hat pattern at Patterns for Pirates to have a large brim.

https://www.patternsforpirates.com/product/witch-hat/

Registration is Open for “Fall 2026 Long Line Sewing” Class!

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Mystic Grove CUUPs is sewing for charity this fall!

This introductory class is designed for students who have never sewn before, as well as beginners who want to strengthen their straight-line and long-seam sewing skills. Students will build confidence by creating stitch samplers, a pillowcase, and a lap quilt using patterns from Winky Cherry’s My First Quilt.

Students are welcome to keep the projects they make or donate them to children’s charities such as Ryan’s Case for Smiles and Project Linus.

Although the class is designed as a series, drop-in students are welcome! Bring your sewing machine or simply join us at the cutting table with a good pair of fabric scissors. If you plan to drop in, please email the instructors so we can prepare materials for you.

Experienced sewists are also warmly invited to volunteer as classroom helpers.

Dates

  • Aug 15 (optional) Buying a New Sewing Machine / Cleaning Your Sewing Machine
  • Sept 5 – Paper Sewing and Stitch Sampler
  • Oct 3 Finish Sampler, Start Pillowcase
  • Oct 17 (optional) Three Seam Cloak
  • Nov 7 Finish Pillow case, Start Quilt
  • Dec 5 Finish Quilt

Registration and Cost

Sliding Scale Tuition: $60–$90 for the complete series.

Students may also add an optional $5–$10 scholarship donation to help future participants. All class proceeds benefit the RE Playground Fundraiser.

Scholarships Available:
One full scholarship and two half scholarships are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Fabric Donations

Would you like to help even if you don’t sew?

We are collecting 100% cotton quilting fabric in the donation box located at the Alliance Thrift Shop.

Easy places to find suitable fabric include Walmart (look for Waverly 1–4 yard cuts in the crafts aisle) and Michaels. The charities ask that donated fabrics not contain glitter, as glitter can rub off on patients.

Children especially enjoy bright, cheerful prints that help make a hospital stay a little less scary and a little more comforting.

Questions?

Please email mysticgrove@orlandouu.org for registration, scholarship information, volunteering, or questions about fabric donations.

Celebrating CUUPS Community: 40 Years and Counting

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Our church is home to Mystic Grove CUUPS, a local chapter of the Covenant of Unitarian Universalist Pagans. This fall, Mystic Grove CUUPS celebrates 25 years of building community, exploring Earth-centered spirituality, and creating opportunities for connection, learning, and celebration.

As CUUPS chapters around the country honor 40 years of the wider national organization, we invite you to read this article from The Wild Hunt reflecting on CUUPS’ history and its ongoing role in the Unitarian Universalist movement.

All are welcome to participate in Mystic Grove CUUPS activities and gatherings as we continue this journey together.

CUUPS Marks 40 Years of Building Pagan Community

March 21, 2026 – Celebrate Ostara (Spring Equinox)

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The Spring Equinox is a moment to pause and notice the changes happening around us—the longer days, the warmth returning to the soil, and the small signs of life pushing up through the earth. By gathering together to share food and reflection, we celebrate not only the season but also the community that grows alongside it.

Join Mystic Grove CUUPs as we celebrate on March 21, 2026. Meet and Greet at 5:30 PM, Ritual at 6 PM, and potluck to follow at 7 PM in Gore Hall at First Unitarian Church of Orlando. 

Our ritual theme this year is “Bunnies and Balance.” If you’ve never attended an Ostara celebration before, you’re warmly welcome. No prior experience is needed—just bring your curiosity and a spirit of community! While we do not provide childcare, families are welcome.

Read more: March 21, 2026 – Celebrate Ostara (Spring Equinox)

What is Ostara?

On the spring equinox, day and night stand in perfect balance, reminding us of the harmony between light and dark, rest and growth, endings and beginnings. From this moment forward, the days grow longer and the energy of the earth shifts toward renewal, fertility, and life returning to the land.

In many earth-honoring traditions, Ostara celebrates the awakening of nature after the quiet months of winter. Buds appear on trees, animals become active again, and seeds begin their journey toward growth. Symbols often associated with this season include eggs, seeds, flowers, fresh greens, and honey—all reminders of the new life stirring all around us.

While Ostara has roots in pagan and nature-centered traditions, the themes of renewal, hope, and balance are universal. Our gathering welcomes both longtime practitioners and those who are simply curious about seasonal celebrations and connecting with nature’s rhythms.

Spring Potluck Feast

Food is a joyful way to celebrate the return of spring, and Ostara tables often feature seasonal ingredients that symbolize renewal and abundance. Typical Ostara foods include:

  • Egg dishes (deviled eggs, quiche, egg salad)
  • Fresh greens and spring vegetables
  • Breads and honey cakes
  • Light desserts
  • Seasonal fruit
  • Herbal teas or refreshing drinks

Need more inspiration?

15+ Spring Equinox Recipes
https://otherworldlyoracle.com/ostara-recipes/
Ideas include asparagus tart, egg salad, and spring vegetable dishes.

50 Ostara Recipes & Foods
https://www.pagangrimoire.com/ostara-recipes-foods/
A large collection of egg dishes, vegetarian meals, desserts, and seasonal foods.

Spring Equinox Recipes & Traditions
https://www.threeleaffarm.com/seed-and-spell/ostara-celebration-of-the-spring-equinox
Includes recipes such as hot cross buns, honey cakes, and spring greens salad.

We hope you’ll join us as we welcome the return of spring! Contact mysticgrove@orlandouu.org for more info. You can also Facebook RSVP at https://www.facebook.com/events/1214950040833844 and let us know what you are bringing to the potluck in the comments.

Gathered Around the Board: Craft Circle’s Charcuterie Potluck

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Charcuterie (pronounced shar-KOO-tuh-ree) is a French culinary term that traditionally refers to prepared or preserved meats. Today, the word often describes a “grazing” board—an abundant spread that goes well beyond meat alone.

Thank you to the nine participants who joined our January 17, 2026 Craft Circle for a potluck charcuterie gathering! We divided into two groups and got creative, designing a snowman board and a log cabin board in the center of our cookie sheets. Around the edges, we added everyone’s potluck contributions, transforming them into two beautiful grazing boards.

Our spreads included regular and gluten-free crackers, jams, soft and hard cheeses, a variety of meats, grapes, figs, carrots, mints, chocolates, and hazelnuts. As we snacked, we enjoyed relaxed conversation about low-stress New Year’s resolutions and explored food-themed prompts—comfort foods, sweet vs. savory preferences, celebration foods, favorite snacks, and dishes that remind us of home.

In our final hour together, we brainstormed ideas for future Craft Circles and created one last snack board to donate to Sunday coffee hour.

Join us for the next Craft Circle on February 21, 2026, from 11:00 AM–1:00 PM. Topic to be announced.

For more information, contact mysticgrove@orlandouu.org.

Donations of Sewing Notions and Fabrics Welcome!

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Our “Intro to Sewing” class is officially full, and registration is now closed—what a joyful start! We welcomed 14 enthusiastic students and were thrilled to offer one full scholarship and two half scholarships.

At orientation, students dove right in by exploring different sewing machine models through paper sewing (no thread), getting hands-on with the tools in a basic sewing kit, and creating sample pages of sewing papers and fabrics we’ll be studying together. We’re excited to learn new sewing skills and grow creatively as a community!

If you have extra sewing notions, fabric, bedding, or clothing, please consider donating them at the Alliance Thrift Store collection bin so students can explore a wide variety of fabric textures in their sewing exercises. For more information, contact Cat R. at mysticgrove@orlandouu.org.

Young adults at sewing class making fabric sample pages for their sewing binders.

Registration Now Open for Spring 2026 “Exploring Herbs” Classes!

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If you’ve been curious about the magical world of herbs, now’s your chance to join us! Our popular “Exploring Herbs” series continues this spring, and even if you missed the earlier sessions, you can still attend the final set of six classes.

In this hands-on series, you’ll learn about the energetics and uses of culinary herbs, enjoy cooking and tasting activities, and connect with fellow herb enthusiasts. Each class runs from 11 AM to 1 PM, offering a delightful mid-morning escape into the world of herbal wisdom.

BOOK

Our course is based on The Alchemy of Herbs by Rosalee de la Forêt.

You can also catch up on past lessons at our online notes: https://sites.google.com/view/mg-exploring-herbs/
New lessons open as the series progresses, so it’s easy to join in at any point!

DATES AND TOPICS

  • Feb. 28, 2026: Elder
  • Mar. 28, 2026: Turmeric
  • Apr. 25, 2026: Astragalus
  • May 23, 2026: Tea
  • June 27, 2026: Nutmeg
  • July 25, 2026: Cinnamon

LOCATION

Gore Hall at First Unitarian Church of Orlando
1901 E. Robinson St., Orlando, FL 32803

REGISTRATION

To secure your spot, email Mary at mysticgrove@orlanduu.org.

COST

  • $30 for the full six-class series
  • $5 per class for “drop-in” students
  • Optional $5 contribution to our scholarship fund

We also have 1 full scholarship and two half scholarships available on a first-come, first-served basis. Registered students are prioritized for materials and activities. “Drop In” students welcome with the understanding that supplies may run out if we did not know you were coming.

PAYMENT OPTIONS

You can pay online, by check, or in person. 

Visit http://www.orlandouu.org, click DONATE, and note “Mystic Grove Herb Class” in the memo line.

Mail checks to:
First Unitarian Church of Orlando
1901 E. Robinson St
Orlando, FL 32803
Include “Mystic Grove Herb Class” in the memo line.

Front Office: Checks can also be dropped off at the church office (Mon–Fri, 7:30 AM – 1:00 PM) or brought to the first class. Call 407-898-3621 for details.

Whether you’re a seasoned herbalist or just beginning your journey, this series is a chance to explore, taste, and celebrate the magic of herbs. Don’t wait—register today and join the adventure!