Burgoyne Surrounded

These are the wedding quilts I made for Ryan and Alissa. Each quilt has 6, 888 pieces and the smallest piece is 3/4" square. Kim introduced me to this heritage rich and elegant block and then added her artistic touch with her custom machine quilting to make it worthy of a truly special occaision.

Quiltmakers have long been naming their blocks to commemorate important events, honor a famous person or make strong political statements. The Burgoyne Surrounded block recalls the Revolutionary War battle of Saratoga, New York. On October 17, 1777, a small force of Americans surrounded the army of British "Gentleman Johnny" Burgoyne, and seven thousand British troops under his command and forced him to surrender. The battle proved to be a turning point in America’s fight for independence, convincing France to enter the war. Ironically, the block’s name immortalizes the defeated Burgoyne rather than the victor.

I also like to honor special events and special people with the quilts I make. I like to weave special meaning into their making. I chose a historical pattern for Ryan because of his love of history. One time we visited the Historical Art Museum in Denver and it was like going with my own tour guide. He really enriched that experience for me because of his knowledge of world history. I made Alissa’s from the same pattern, only reversing the use of the light and dark fabric. Kind of like a yin and yang style of companion quilts. I wanted to do one for each of them to honor, not only the unity of their marriage, but also the independence inside of it they have lovingly preserved for each other.

Fun In The Sun

It was fun times this week on the California scene. Canyon and Auggie have grown like weeds and will soon be ready for downhill races on their cycles. It is amazing to watch Auggie spin around his track in his backyard at lightning speed.... the kid is only two. We cooked up a storm and made all sorts of color concoctions and experiments. Canyon registered for Kindergarten while we were there... he is a sweet, thoughtful, and loving kid who soaks up learning anything new.... he will love going to school. Auggie is in constant motion.... he is always watching and imitating, and figuring out the best way to do things. He plays second fiddle to no one. I love it when he doesn't like what you are saying.... his hands go on his hips and you know soon he will be looking for something to throw. I wonder what it says about me as a grandma, when I am more endeared to my grandkids when they are about to do something naughty?

This is the best picture I had of Ryan and Alissa at their wedding. The sun made everyone squint. I will post another one when I get them from the other photographer. It was a perfect day, on Friday, March 27th. Alissa was beautiful in her silk purple dress. (Ryan was cute, too) They were married in Palos Verdas on the bluffs overlooking the ocean. It was sweet and simple. Ryan said his vows through choked back tears and Alissa said hers with a giddy happiness. That was the sweet part. Together they were perfection. Afterwards, Ryan treated us to lunch at their favorite Brazilian restaurant. They are honeymooning for the week in Japan. Congratulations, you two. We were happy we could help you celebrate such a memorable day.