Looking back at 2013

I keep a record of projects I work on throughout the year.  I have friends who keep track of hours spent, or materials used, but I just like to see what I accomplish each year.  So- on this first day of 2014, I am looking back at my "production.  ( I am a product person, in case that isn't quite obvious)

This year's total projects was 58.  I may have missed a pair of earrings or something, but still that is quite low compared to past years.   Broken down by type it looks like this.
Quilts: 9
Blocks/ tops: 8 (this includes the hours and hours spent on the raffle quilt!)
Apparel: 5 (very low!)
Accessories: 4
Home dec: 5
Knitting: 20 (due to a number of very small items and kitty blankets)

One thing that I didn't count was the  27 foster kittens I cared for this year.  If you add those in, I'm about where I should be. 

So- here are the highlights- otherwise known as my favorite projects from 2013.



My favorite quilt was my Wild Things quilt.  I had such a blast making that, and tried several new processes which I will use again.

 My second favorite was my mandala, which I didn't like until I added the zentangle quilting.

My favorite in the block/ top category is these comfort quilt tops.  My online quilt "guild" has done these for members suffering illness or loss for years.  The simple blocks make a lovely quilt and we can tailor them to the person.  
It's a small thing to do to show our love and support in difficult times.

My favorite "accessory" project are these hats I made for a friend battling cancer. (pictured here on the mannequins in the sleep lab at work)
 I don't know how much use she got out of them, but it made me feel like I was doing something.  Feeling powerless to help a friend is an awful thing.







My favorite knitted item was this wingspan shawl.  Noro yarn makes any project a favorite, though!

 And my favorite foster experience was the littler of feral kittens.  When I first brought them home, I couldn't reach into the crate without them hissing, growling, hiding and trying to shred my hands.  But suddenly, they were coming out for food, then for affection.  The first time I held one of them and he purred was one of the most awesome things I have experienced. 
I was so happy to save these babies from a life of fighting and eating garbage.  I know for a fact that most of them are very spoiled pets now.  I did that.  So it was a very good year.  I can only hope to do as well in this new year!

I am pressed for time at the moment, so I will cut the nagging about saving the planet.  Just a reminder that every small thing might make a difference!

I am grateful for:
A good year
Friends far and near
Being able to give of myself
Being very spoiled
The possibilities the first day of the new year offers each of us!