Yesterday, we awoke to a surprise as it had snowed overnight. I knew it was predicted for the higher mountains to the north, and saw a few tiny drifting flakes on Sunday night, but it didn’t seem like we would get much. Opening the curtain on Monday morning just after dawn was a beautiful sight.

When the ground is white, and the leaves are off the trees, it is easier to see the land. This is out our back door looking west. The drop off isn’t that far outside the fence that goes down to a stream in the cove between the mountains. The next mountainside is visible. The green pine tree is actually about 50 feet tall, with its base down in the cove.

Of course, that meant a sew day! I immediately got to work on finishing the quilting on the Quilt of Valor that was on the frame.

I’m using the same pantograph called Blue Star that I use on most QOVs.

Light blue Glide thread is in the top, with light blue Bottom Line in the bobbin.

I only had about a third of the quilt left to quilt. It went quickly. I checked the stitching, then removed it from the longarm and trimmed it. I’ll put a binding on that matches the outer border.

Checking the mail last week was like a holiday! Packages came in with lots of blocks for the Quilts of Valor project. I want to thank all these ladies for their contributions! Every block will be put to use in a QOV. I received –
Six 12-inch star blocks from Missy M in Ohio
Twelve 12-inch patriotic sampler blocks from Moira M in Arizona
Two 12-inch star blocks from Janet K in Nebraska
6 12-inch star blocks from Julie C in New York
Six 12-inch star blocks AND twenty 10-inch patriotic blocks from Kathryn L in Pennsylvania
Thank you all so much!!

I have notice from my informed delivery that four more packages are coming this week. It is heartwarming that so many of you are helping with this project. I know the veterans will love every quilt. Can’t wait to see what comes this week!