Crafts by Kids

Never underestimate the craft abilities of kids.  This next quilt was made by someone young - that's all I remember about it.  It was for one of my kids when they were born - don't remember which one either.  Obviously with all the pink, it was for one of the girls!!  Maybe someone out there who is now around 20 years old will say, "I remember making that for you."  That would be great.  Just simple squares of spare material cut and stitched together with a soft flannel backing.  But made because someone cared.

My Mom taught me to knit and sew, and I have always loved teaching my kids to sew and crochet.  Even Dave - he made all of the clothes he needed to do Civil War Reenactments.  The girls have made afghans, baby blankets, quilts (Christine, how about a picture of your sunflower quilt?), done cross stitching, made clothes, fleece blankets, and on and on. 

It is sad to see the dying out of arts and crafts.  I think I've been told it only takes one generation to lose something special.  My friend will soon be losing her finishing job because another small privately owned craft store will be closing.  Moms - be sure to pass on to your children the things that you like to do.  Let's not allow today's intrusions into our lives to take away from us the things that can give us some much needed relaxation and enjoyment.

Getting Started

I've been thinking about blogging for awhile, but since I don't know how often I will be able to add to it, I've been hesitant to start.  I'm a firm believer that if you don't start something, you will surely never get it done.  So, here goes.  

I never thought I would like quilting.  I've seen my Mom make several quilts, and I was always intimidated by big projects - meaning big in size.  My preference is something like crocheting that I can quickly throw in a bag when I have to put it away.  

I thought I would start out my blog by showing and talking about quilts I have that were done by others, then share how I got started quilting.  First is a quilt made by a dear friend, Vickie -- 2nd cousin, good friend, one year ahead of me in school, co-worker at our local restaurant, roommate for one year of college - yes, THAT Vickie.  She made a quilt for me when Dave was born.  That was just a "few" years ago, but after going through four of my own kids, now I have it back out again for use by the grandkids.  Gifts made by friends are the best!