Hello dear quilting friends,
I hope you all had a wonderful Independence Day and that your summer has been treating you kindly. I just got back from a trip to Utah where I had the joy of spending time with my kids and extended family. Every year, we gather for a big 4th of July family reunion—potluck-style, of course.
This year’s reunion wasn’t the biggest we’ve had, even though our family just keeps growing. With more grandkids getting married, and now great-grandbabies entering the world, we’ve become more and more spread out. It’s getting harder for everyone to make it to Utah at the same time.
We never know how long this family tradition will continue. My husband’s uncle, who’s hosted the reunion for years, has hung up his apron and passed the mantle to his daughter. These reunions may never be quite the same, and one day, they might come to an end altogether. That’s a bittersweet thought—but I find comfort in knowing that, with each branch of the family tree, new traditions will blossom. Maybe even dozens—if not hundreds—of smaller reunions will spring up, each one filled with its own kind of joy.
This year, we had burgers sizzling on the grill, homemade sweets on every table, and laughter echoing through the pavilion. The food was marvelous—but not as marvelous as seeing the faces I’ve missed.
Being surrounded by loved ones always fills my heart—and, truthfully, my plate too. I try to eat healthy and be mindful, but what's one indulgent day? Gatherings like that remind me why we quilt in the first place: to wrap the people we love in comfort, care, and something made with our own two hands.
Now that I’m home, I feel refreshed and inspired. I’ve got new fabric spread out on the table and more ideas in my head than I know what to do with. I’ll be back at my sewing machine this week, working on something special to share with you soon.
Thank you for following along and being part of this wonderful quilting journey with me. There’s nothing quite like creating and sharing with friends who understand the joy of a well-stitched quilt.
With love and happy stitching,
Ruth
