Sunday, May 19, 2013

Boulder Crest Quilts

A few days ago I went with a group of fellow quilters to tour Boulder Crest Retreat. Boulder Crest is for wounded military warriors and is located about an hour out of Washington D.C. It is still in the construction phrase and expects to open in the fall 2013. The area is being built entirely by donations. The land (37 acres) was given by a retired military man. The 3 cabins are being furnished by donations also, furniture, cabinets, appliances have all been given by nationally known companies. Boy scouts have worked on landscaping for eagle projects. And the local quilt groups- Waterford Quilters Guild, Joshua’s Hands, and local Bee groups- are providing quilts for beds, laps quilts, and give away quilts for children. Our tour included a nearly completed cabin. Each cabin has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, kitchen and living area with a fireplace. They are lovely and functional for handicap needs. Each unit has lots of windows and a balcony to view the Blue Ridge foothills as well as the fishing pond on the grounds. There are big plans for this retreat. They hope to serve several hundred warriors and their families per year. Some will stay 2 nights or 2 weeks as they are able, giving the warriors a much needed break from long term recuperative strays and quality time with families. You may be sure that the local quilters will keep them well supplied with quilts.

Thursday, May 2, 2013

100 Blocks Blog Tour!

Welcome to the Quiltmaker's 100 Blocks, Vol. 7 blog tour. I hope your travels have been enjoyable, at least you are not having to pay baggage fees with this tour. This issue features my block, 'Counter Spin'. Don't let the name blow you away. It's easy to make and has lots of color and layout possibilities. Her are some layout ideas. The table is very easy and a great gift idea. Row by Row is a bright and cheerful 9 block wall hanging. I have noticed that older I get the brighter my fabric choices. If you like traditional color themes then 'Pioneer' might be to your liking. The squares could be various fabrics just use one color choice to unify all the blocks. I chose brown to represent a water windmill of the old west. Have fun. Be sure to leave a comment and will be entered in the Quiltmaker's drawing for 2 great prizes. http://www.quiltmaker.com/blog