When my daughter, Heidi, was little more than a toddler, I planned to make her a Raggedy Ann for Christmas. Time has blurred the reason why I didn’t get it finished, but I do remember handing her a box of red and blue fabric and bright orange yarn, along with a hug and an IOU.
She has never let me forget it.
So when a big birthday loomed ahead, I determined to do something special for her. To make a luxurious quilt that would surround her with “mommy-love.” And absolutely not give her an IOU on that most important day!
Because she loved Ralph Lauren bedding, I searched for just the right sheet to serve as the basis for her quilt. And I found the perfect pattern called “Cole Brook.” Unfortunately, it was a king-sized bed skirt instead of a full sheet. But, it had the right colors, the right weight, and feel. A soft, cotton sateen. It would do very well.
In truth, I collected fabric for more than a year. Finding only Ralph Lauren fabric proved to be too daunting for me. Eventually, I added other brands of high thread count pillowcases and luxurious fabric samples. The big day drew close and still, I shopped for just one more piece for an elusive quilt square. Maybe a silk plaid or a linen toile would give it that elegant edge I wanted.
Heidi & her "Mostly Ralph Lauren" quilt.
With only two weeks to go, I started rotary cutting and stitching, piecing the quilt. I worked into the wee hours, knowing I didn’t want another Raggedy Ann moment on my parenting record. Just in time, I got the quilt top finished and wrapped for the big party. In a perfect world, the entire quilt would be completed, but I was happy to hand Heidi an original Medallion-patterned coverlet – almost a quilt. And lots of mommy-love instead of an IOU! I called it “Mostly Ralph Lauren” and she loved it. Mission accomplished.
Now, there is still the problem/promise of that Raggedy Ann….
Crafting Mysteries & Suspense 
Hi Cathy! The coverlet is so pretty! Super job and congrats on a finished project. 🙂 Miss you!
Thank you so much, Hannah. Finishing it on time made me feel wonderful. Giving it to my girl was even better. 🙂
Another Cathy Acomplishment! You are the busiest retired person I know! It’s a beautiful quilt! Makes me feel so guilty for not putting in the extra mile on my embroidered “picture quilt” work.
Much love to you, Miss Cathy.
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Isn’t retirement the most fun ever? I truly cannot imagine getting Heidi’s quilt finished if I was still working. Love back, Miss Donna
Love it. SO pretty!!! You done good, Mama! ; )
Thanks! I had so much fun. But that Raggedy Ann IOU still lurks out there.
Beautiful quilt! The picture makes me yearn to touch the silky fabric. I look forward to seeing pictures of the Raggedy Ann (: Have a wonderful, blessed, and delicious Thanksgiving. See you in December. Hugs, B.
Thanks, Barbara. It does feel nice. Which was the point of all that luxurious fabric, of course.
Have a treasured time with your family this Thanksgiving. I’ll look forward to a few new Hallie stories when I see you next. 🙂
Oops, I forgot to identify myself as the dark-haired Barbara. Barbara Dawson is Hallie’s grandma. I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I’m looking forward to singing and playing with you at the Christmas party.
Oh, Barbara! Please forgive me. Of course I know who you are! Just had a “duh” moment, I guess. When I looked back, your last name is right there, giving me the hint.
Polish up your velvet voice! We’re gonna have fun, lady. 🙂