I am saddened by the devastation of places that I love — New York and New Jersey. I lived and worked in New Jersey before I was married and spent a lot of time in NYC. What they are going through is unimaginable. I survived 5 hurricanes when we lived in Wilmington, NC, with much damage, but nothing like what has happened in the tri-state area.

I am happy that my family members in New York, Connecticut, New Jersey and West Virginia are all ok with minor damage. I am thankful that my sister came through surgery in upstate NY today and is recovering at home. I am slowly hearing from friends in the area who are fine.  I am so proud of our President who has been managing the relief with a steady hand and a comforting heart.

I am also thankful for a good night’s sleep and more energy today. The larger dose of Aleve seems to be making my achy joints feel better. The incessant cold rain, however, is not helping.

I decided to get outside my comfort zone and do raw edge applique on my organ quilt. I had a terrible time getting the tension right. I am using Superior Bottom Line for the zigzag stitch and it took some trial and error to get the tension just right. I was not a happy camper. I also realize why I like fusing. When I get the fabric on the batting, it does not move or wrinkle!!

I first pinned the pieces in place. I haven’t used my basting pins in ages!

Here is a section that is stitched down. I have several colors of Bottom Line on bobbins so I was able to match the fabric.

So, I have set this in motion. It will either be a wow quilt or a huge waste of gorgeous fabric. I wonder sometimes why I wander off into uncharted territory, but I keep doing it.

Sending love and good thoughts to all of you on the east coast. Keep the faith!