A Big One

I figure that since I opened my Etsy shop in 2010 I've produced probably around 75 selvage bath mats.
Most of them look like this one:

8 squares, 4 across and 2 down.

It measures about 14 x 27"

Production time:  about 3 hours








So it was an interesting challenge recently to produce a really big one as a custom order:

20 squares, 5 across, 4 down

30 x 38"

Production time:  don't ask (lol)








Well, it's nice to know that they can be made larger if needed!

At the customer's request, the back is blue terrycloth.

So.  It's the beginning of my long, long summer off from orchestra work (the orchestra season resumes in the beginning of October).  And, of course, my first summer of living alone.  I have realized that staying busy is a key component of recovery, and for the first time in many years I have time to donate to others.

Metropolitan Ministries is a huge service provider based just a few miles from my home that provides shelter and assistance to homeless people, families in need of temporary assistance, and basically anyone in danger of falling through the cracks of society.  They rely heavily on volunteers to assist their staff doing child care, cafeteria chores (they produce literally thousands of meals per day), processing donations, general maintenance chores, special events-- well, you get the idea.  I've been spending 2 afternoons per week there and enjoyed every minute of it.  Between that and quilting, going to yoga, and seeing friends I feel busy every day.  

One foot in front of the other.  Stay busy.  Keep living until you're alive again.