Therapy, Rest and Relaxation

The sewing machine is always set up and ready to go at Mother's, so of course I had to make a quilt when I went to visit. This is a baby quilt for Project Linus:  http://projectlinus.org/



The Project Linus mission is "to provide love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need through the gifts of new, handmade blankets and afghans."

This quilt, like most of the quilts I make, is about 3 ft by 4 ft, with a very low loft, pieced on the front and backed with a corresponding fabric. I did something a little different with this one. Here's a detail:



I made each 9-patch block, and then I joined the blocks with a thin strip of a red print. It was made by cutting one inch strips, folding in half lengthwise, and placing on the seam when I joined the blocks. I like the effect, so I think I'll do it again.

I machine quilted it on the diagonal. That was different for me and, because I don't do straight lines well, I had to draw every line before I stitched it. I like the way it came out, though, and it was actually easier because the bias of the fabric eases better and doesn't pucker.

Even more fun than the sewing at my Mother's house were the long conversations, about politics, family history, Meadville doings and good books.

She loaned me Dreams From My Father, by Barack Obama, and suggested another book she has read called The Peabody Sisters of Salem. I ordered the sisters from Amazon.com while I was in Meadville, and it arrived today. I love the cover:

So - my suitcase is half unpacked, because we had Beth over the weekend, went to the grocery store, watched movies, etc. And I have a long "to do" list at the house, but I will take time to read.

A good book is the very best therapy, escape, R&R, etc.

Maybe even better than drawing and sewing.

What are you doing for rest and relaxation?