The Last Quit of 2013

My friend and her son lost their beloved dog to cancer this month. I made a small quilt based on my friend's favorite photograph of her son and their dog, Zorro.

I used fused applique, machine quilting, and a sheer net overlay to soften the image, the way our memory softens the harsh angles leaving us with the beloved ideal.

I hope that next year I get more quilts finished than started, lol. And I have read over 50 books this year but only blogged about a few.

My big accomplishments this year included having my quilt "I Will Lift My Voice Like a Trumpet" in two American Quilt Society shows, starting an etsy store, Rosemont Needle Arts, which I have been lax about promoting and adding to, and working harder on my blog. And I joined Esther Aliu's Yahoo group to make the Love Entwinned 1790s applique quilt.

We also have been preparing our retirement house with new doors, a new front window, programmable thermostat, LED light fixtures, insulation in attic and basement, and the purchase of a new refrigerator. Also a replaced garage door opener, painting of the family room, new drapes for the family room, and some other minor items. Next year: washer and dryer and water heater and landscaping issues. We also have fun researching ideas for the kitchen upgrade and flooring options. Somehow this table I got at bargain prices has to fit into the kitchen plan!

I hope your year has had its successes and accomplishments. And that 2014 brings exciting and new experiences, books to read, and quilts to make and success in all your endeavors!