Valentine's Day Bystander

Once upon a time, I celebrated Valentine's day with handmade gifts for my sweetie. Look at this paper-pieced Mariner's compass with heart fabric. I was so focused on finishing it in time, that I forgot to take out the tracing paper backing. Thus, the pillow crinkles slightly when we squish it.

I made Mark a red and white Irish chain, my very first hand-quilted quilt. (We were newlywed then.) Because he never seems to stand still, I thought it was appropriate to use a lightning heraldic crest from the book, Japanese Design Motifs.

This year, I am too tired to do much of anything. Iris says she has an idea of a surprise for daddy. I can't say anything here before the fact.

Yesterday, Iris' school closed in observance of Lincoln's birthday. I had to work so I took her in with me. She charmed everyone she met at the office and lab. She loved the lab tour. Today, I discovered the Valentine that she hid in my office for me. It is so heart meltingly cute. Stay tuned for the photo.

Aside:
I just noticed that I sewed everything shown in the top photo. I made the daybed cover, shams and skirt. The throw pillow is one of two made out of a pink chenille towel.