Island Spring

How do we know it’s springtime?  First, the calendar tells us it started a week ago.  Second, ice is starting to break up along the shoreline.  Third, even though the feet of the willow trees are still in snow and ice, their buds open in the bright blue sky. Fourth, it’s Quilts of Valor time!

     

2018 marks the sixth consecutive year a Washington Island Quilts of Valor event has been held in the Sophie Studio.  Co-ordinated by Ellen Graf, this year six teams of two worked in the studio, along those who came for a day to make the presentation cases for the finished quilts.  In addition, several individuals sewed at home and one team worked long distance from Arizona.  The teams were formed using the “Under Our Wings” approach, designed by Marianne Fons, pairing an experienced quilter (coach) and rookie.

  

   

   

As of today, most if not all the quilt tops are finished, ready for a volunteer long-arm quilter to finish them before they are returned and displayed on Washington Island for a short time before being given to servicemembers who have been touched by war.  All of this is done under the auspices of the national Quilts of Valor Foundation with donations for fabrics and supplies given by individuals and local organizations.

Upon seeing this bird nest at first glance my question was, “Where did a bird get green grass this time of year?”  On closer inspection and then through the camera lens, I could see that perhaps a special “some-bunny” provided the makings.

Happy springtime!