Another grief - another quilt

Tom and I joined the ranks of empty nesters this week, and it hit us pretty hard. For my part, it wasn't unexpected that sending our beautiful daughter off to the next phase of her life would be wrenching, and I spent much of the year preparing for grief by making her a "Home" quilt.

The little critters in the doorways are "Meebs." She designed them for a poster she made in her junior year in high school, to cheer up classmates and teachers who were going through a stressful time. Seemed appropriate to send some with her to college. It also features some scenes from our neighborhood (a renowned rose garden, an apple tree we planted, colorful birdhouses made by her 2nd-grade teacher). For the quilting, I added her beloved bees and butterflies, connected by a pattern of oak leaves, in honor of the ancient Oakwood around our house. Oh, and our two cats.

I guess it helps to know she's got some reminders of home to snuggle up with if and when she misses us.