Well, the project mentioned in the former post was a homemade denim quilt. John helped me so much, or it would never have been completed! We cut 288 squares for a 16 x 18 square quilt top. It was fun to see "jeans" that were worn by our children in middle and high school. I cut about 90 squares, using the magic roller blade, but John did all of the rest. It was misery getting it pinned onto the quilting frame with just the two of us, but we did manage to do it. I tied 4 rows of square knots of red yarn, but John did all of the rest. What a trooper. We found a red and white/beige print of baseballs for the backing, which seemed perfect, since the Andersons are such baseball fans. We pulled the print over the top and sewed it down, making a nice print frame around the denim. It did turn out mighty nice. We rolled it up tightly, like a sleeping bag, and put it into a plastic bag and it fit in John's suitcase. Miracle of miracles!
I think they were surprised and pleased. Now, all of our children have denim picnic/canping quilts. If we get inspired, we may attempt to do one for ourselves. I think I gave our 40-year-old denim quilt to the D.I. a couple of years ago. My sister-in-law made it for us as a Christmas gift the first year they were married and it got a lot of wear and tear. We have loved it and hated to part with it, but it truly was time.
We watched a couple of basketball games while we were there. Lots of excitement. Lunch out with Dayle seems to be a tradition. He's the only one who orders fish tacos, however! :-)
A shopping trip to Centralia was profitable. John found flannel-lined denims, I got some black Naturalizers, and Tammy got a set of dishes. A subway sandwich later we were all "happy campers".
It's amazing how convenient travelling has become. Our only hold-up is my metal knees. Every darn time I set off the buzzer and have to be patted down. Do I really look that threatening? A grandmother of 12?? Oh, well, if it keeps us all safe, I am willing to cooperate.
It's good to be home. Next big push is preparing a dozen students for a piano recital this spring.
Where, or where are the crocuses? I am so ready for daffodils and tulips!
