I started quilting in 1984 making a small quilt for my daughter who would be born in the spring, learning from books I received and hand quilting I finished this first quilt and it was used a lot when we went to the park for her to sit on. I have been sewing since I was eight years old making many garments for myself, children and others. I quilted small items for quite a few years until I began working at Capitol Quilts in Gaithersburg MD. There I took some classes from some expert quilters and learned some techniques to refine my skills. In 1997 my family moved back to Minnesota and started volunteering with the Minnesota Quilt Project, I learned about antique quilts and assisted with documentation and the book on Minnesota quilts that was published in 2005. I have enjoyed through the years learning about women from the past and the “modern” quilts they made in their time. I have made many quilts for myself, family and friends and continue to find new pattern, fabrics and designers that influence my quilts. I currently work at a new quilt shop in Minnesota called Wildflower Quilt Co. From working here I cannot encourage everyone enough to get your quilts finished. Find time to enjoy your hobby, finish your quilts and use them or give them away to be used. Don’t let them sit in the closet to be found in years to come. Also continue to search out new aspects of the quilt industry as so many new fun elements are always a part of this craft. This is my “Trip to the Beach” quilt, a traditional trip around the world quilt with all beach themed fabrics, dedicated to my love of the beach. Happy Quilting! 2023