Christmas Quilt Tradition

Last year's quilt.
This one I am really proud of because
I did it all on my lonesome.

Quilt from 2006.
Aunt Gaye really did this one.
I was just there for moral support.

This year's quilt. Done just in the nick of time.
It was still slightly wet when I pulled it out of the
dryer and layed it on Hannah's bed.

I know these colors are non-traditional. But I LOVE them.
I really wanted my quilts to reflect what I love at certain times.
And turquiose, lime green and orange are the colors I Love right now.
I'm sure years from now the kids will pull this one out and declare
together, "What was Mom thinking."

About 4 years ago I started a new tradition for our kids. Starting Dec. 1 I place the christmas quilt on one of the kids beds. It's usually the one that has acted the best that morning. That night we gather around that child's bed and he/she gets to pick out a christmas book that either Mom or Dad reads. Then we read scriptures and say prayer. Whoever gets the quilt also gets to sleep with it that night. It rotates between all the kids.
I know I started this tradition a little late. The reason I know this is due to Jaren's reaction this year. I was encouraging all the kids to get their beds made and to be good listener's when Jaren piped up and proclaimed, " I don't care about the quilt." It was hard not to ball up in the corner and cry my eyes out. Is Jaren really to old for the quilt I wondered. Come to find out, he's not. After the other kids got the quilt I noticed Jaren make an effort and acutally made his bed. When the quilt finally made it around to his bed, I know he was secretly jumping up and down inside. Plus, I heard him make some strange noise of joy and saw the smile he tried to hide.
Traditions are what make the holidays memorable and special. I will make a new quilt every year until I decide I have plenty. I am hoping to pass a quilt to each of my children when they get married so they can begin this tradition with their own kids.
A special thanks to my Aunt Gaye. Who so graciously and willingly helped me quilt this blanket. I really appreciate her kindness and generosity. Plus the time it took. Your the best Gaye!!