Something Positive.....

I've been in a semi-funk since election day.....as has about 50% of the country. But I am trying really hard to avoid all of the Facebook posts....they just make me feel worse. Determined to find the good....and that means looking for another close-to-home volunteer opportunity to connect with people who need a little extra help. A food pantry? A homeless shelter? I'll find something.

I do look back to my quilt guild's annual "Love and Comfort" workshop - where members assemble baby quilts to distribute to area hospitical NICUs. These small quilts are colorful and are designed to drape over the baby's to protect their eyes from the harsh hospital lights. And they also bring a little touch of color, love and warmth to an otherwise sterile environment.

This year we spent our two days assembling 114 finished quilts. The pile grew as the day progressed.....and it was such fun. Conversation, laughter, sewing machines humming at top speed.  We have a tradition where, as each quilt is added to the pile,  quilter gets to ring a cow bell and everyone applauds. We wait for that bell!

It's a small effort....and only helps a little bit. But it does help. The parents who visit their babies in the NICU...who worry and wonder and can't wait to take their newborns home. At least they can walk in and immediately see that someone is thinking about them....and sending healing thoughts their way.

Love and comfort....many of us could use a little more of that right about now.

And the hospital NICU!