The Mohawk Trail

When I was a kid, family vacations and family day trips usually involved an educational angle. Whether my mother was a closet history buff or just wanted to expand our experiences, when my Dad wasn't breaking his hand, catching fire or cutting himself, our family trips involved learning something about the area. Often we camped or stayed at motels, ate cereal from individual sized boxes, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for lunch and ventured forth to learn. I discovered Washington DC through museums and mass transit,  the deep south in the 60s via side roads and scenic routes, and followed the Mohawk Trail through upstate New York and Massachusetts.

 

Photo by Sharon Lee

Recently my Mom came for a visit. As I played her tour guide we reminisced about the Mohawk Trail. I remember stopping somewhere in Massachusetts and learning how taper candles were made. For the first time, I tasted blue green dressing and escarole. Somewhere in northeastern New York, we stayed at a log cabin off the main road. My first experience of the wonderful smells of a spruce forest was during this trip.

It is the hope of Community Partnerships RC&D, and myself as PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails administrator, that the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails becomes a trail of memories, education, wonderful sights, tastes  and smells. Please help build the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails. Sponsors, sites, painters all are needed. Make the PA Quilt (And Rug) Trails a integral part of the central Pennsylvania experience.

Happy New Years from Community Partnerships RC&D, sponsor ofthe PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails.

Heigh Ho, The Holly

Heigh Ho, The Holly

Blow, blow, thou winter wind,
Thou art not so unkind
As man's ingratitude;
Thy tooth is not so keen,
Because thou art not seen,
Although thy breath be rude.
Heigh ho, sing heigh ho, unto the green holly;
most friendship is feigning, most loving mere folly:
Then, heigh ho, the holly!
This life is most jolly. Freeze, freeze, thou bitter sky,
That dost not bite so nigh
As benefits forgot:
Though thou the waters warp,
Thy sting is not so sharp
As friend remember'd not.
Heigh ho, sing heigh ho, unto the green holly:
most friendship is feigning, most loving mere folly:
Then, heigh ho, the holly!
This life is most jolly.

William Shakespeare

Geting Your Quilt Trail on

Week after week I have been blogging about the benefit, the beauty and the importance to the community of the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails. And if we were to meet face-to-face I would most likely talk your ear off about upcoming quilt squares, after all the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails is continually evolving and there is much to say.

However this week, this blog posting, I have nothing to say.


This past weekend I attended a Christmas party at an orphanage in one of the poorer towns of Mexico. Hogar de los Niño is  located on the outskirts of Naco, Sonora. There are thirteen orphans living there ages ranging from two months to thirteen years old. Many of these orphans are paperless meaning that they were most likely found on the streets and lack any type of identification making them unadoptable. Although the orphanage has electricity enough to power a Christmas tree and a bare bulb, I saw no sign of a heat source. I was told in the past, the children were locked in the building for the evening, alone, as they had no one to stay there overnight. Now they have a house "mother" living with the children making the children somewhat safer at night.

I suppose I could go on for pages on the conditions of Hogar de los Niños but, other than making you feel extremely sorry for these kids, why add the burden of knowledge to your already highly-stressed, over-extended life? And why bring it up at all? I can't say for sure I know except that I realize fully how truly blessed and lucky I am. No I do not have a late model car, I struggle with making rent and bills on time, Christmas this year, present-wise is a few promises of gifts and words of love. Easy to wrap but sometimes hard to swallow in this time of gift giving and spending. But then I remember that my daughter never had to spend cold nights on a cot in a room with twelve others, never to have a parent's hug, never to know her birthday and her birth family. My daughter doesn't use rocks to play catch. She doesn't depend on the kindness of strangers for a coat and shoes.

This holiday season spend a few moments thinking kind thoughts for those who suffer the most.

Best of holidays to you and yours,

Sharon Lee

Winter in the Woods

Many stories and poems have been written about the beauty of the woods in the winter. Pennsylvania has over 60% (17 million acres) of forests (dcnr.state.pa.us). Although the woods are typically admired in the fall with their brilliant displays of colors, to me, an avid woods walker, the winter in the woods is my favorite time to venture amongst the trees.

A freshly laid coating of snow captures peace and tranquility like no other season. Even the chirping of the winter birds is halted. My guess is the little feathered ones are tucked, warm and safely away until warmer times.

The Tuscarora State Forest in Perry County is a beautiful place of peace and tranquility, where the true beauty of Pennsylvania's woods is evident. If you are following the Pa Quilt (and Rug) Trails, you can visit the tribute to Magdalean Briner Eby's, primitive hook rug craftswoman at the Tuscarora Ranger Station's fire building.

I know many people shutter with the thought of venturing outside in Pennsylvania in the wintertime, however take a chance and venture forth. It will be the experience you've always wished for.

Packwood Museum, Welcome to the Fold

Although there are several quilt squares in various states of being created, I haven't blogged much about these pieces. One reason is lack of concrete information. Many aspects of designing, painting and installing a quilt piece are complex (meetings to be had, committees to be formed, agreements and partnerships to be made) so it should come as no small wonder that information concerning these new pieces have been slow to surface.

However.....

I did get some information concerning the Packwood Museum quilt square. The Packwood Museum is located in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. It has a wonderful collection of quilts. This spring, in conjunction with a major quilt exhibit  at the museum, will be the installation of the Packwood Museum Quilt Square, part of the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails.

http://www.paquilttrails.org/PA_Quilt_and_Rug_Trails/Packwood_Museum.html

June 12, 2012 to October 13, 2012,
Pennsylvania Quilts II: Patterns and Variations
Reflectingthe breadth and depth of the Packwood Museum’s outstanding collection of over 200 Pennsylvania-made quilts, ranging from the 1810s to the 1950s.

Packwood House Museum 

15 North Water Street

Lewisburg, PA 17837

570-524-0323. 

This holiday season support PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails. This great, community project is one that will go on for years and years to come. All donations large and small are appreciate. Donate via the Paypal button on the top right or send a check to 

PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails

C/o Community Partnerships RC&D

23 North Main Street

Lewistown, PA. 17044

Thank You

One year at Thanksgiving, my daughter and I decided to collect thanks on slips of paper pasting them all around the house then sharing what was on written the papers during Thanksgiving dinner. For me, the opportunity to verbalize thanks reminded me just how of the many things of which to be grateful. In the same tradition of gratitude, I give thanks for the following PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails related people, places and things:

Thanks to Hunters Valley Winery, the first quilt square of the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails. Not only did I experience a fabulous view of the Susquehanna River from the Hunters Valley vineyard I got to see the "hands-on" process of wine making and bottling.

Thanks to the Sewing Shanty of Selingrove. Debbie and Paul created the most wonderful quilt square from polished pieces of wood. Their work is a testament to the power of honoring loved ones.

Thanks to Gene Odata and all the forestry personnel at the Tuscarora State Forest. Thanks to Gene I discovered the Tuscarora Forest, a beautiful forest in a rural setting with camping, hiking trails, wild flowers and morel hunting.

Thanks to Kathy Wright and the folks at Stackpole Books for introducing me to Magdalean Briner Eby, an local, primitive hook rug artist who was the inspiration for the first "Trail Rug".

Thanks to the Juniata Valley Quilters Guild. This group supported two quilt squares, following the process through from beginning to end.

Thanks to Locust Grove Retirement and Rehabilitation Village. They took a complicated xerox of a photo of a Magdalean Briner Eby rug and successfully made it into a beautiful painted piece.

Thanks to Skills of Central Pennsylvania, a group of dedicated painters who made the Heirloom Cabinetry quilt square happen.

Thanks to Heirloom Cabinetry who lent the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails the side of their barn, framed and installed the "Carpenters Wheel" quilt square.

Thanks to Kristen Price. Because of her great photographic skills, the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails is visually available for all to see no matter where you are.

Thanks to Kevin Morgan, Joe Fiore and Mike Lennartz. These behind the scenes guys juggled plywood and paint deliveries with their own very demanding responsibilities of working for Community Partnerships RC&D.

Thanks to  Mackenzie and Madison Price who were dragged hither and yon, doing whatever necessary.

Thanks to Larry Schardt for taking me on as an Earth Team intern and assigning me this awesome project.

Thanks to the board of Community Partnerships RC&D who supported this project. The board of CPRC&D had the insight to see the potential of this project and gave full support.

And finally thanks to Sam Price, Executive Director of Community Partnerships RC&D who works tirelessly to make the PA Quilt (and Rug)Trails a reality, convincing the CPRC&D board, Central Pennsylvania community members, politicians and powers that be when necessary, supporting me when needed, while tolerating some out of the box, off-beat, crazy ideas I have. Thanks Sam you are indeed the man.

Support the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails and next year add your name to persons to be thankful to.

Happy Thanksgiving

Sharon Lee

administer PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails

Hometown

There is a Chinese / Mandarin word "家乡(jia3 xiang3)" that means "native town or hometown". It is an important bit of information necessary when filling out official forms in mainland China. While  hometowns are usually a place of birth or residence, many Chinese have never once visited their hometown.


Hometown then is really a state of mind or allegiance tied to a geographical location. I myself consider central Pennsylvania my "hometown" although I was born and raised in New Jersey. Hometown for me is the place that feels most familiar, most connected and comfortable, a place for roots. 

Follow the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails and see how easy it is to connect with central Pennsylvania and call it your own "hometown" One morning, this winter, central Pennsylvania will be awaken by a blanket of snow producing a beautiful and comforting silence . Even the birds are still on such mornings. The smell from local, oak wood burning in a wood stove, making its way to your nose, as you lay snuggled and warm beneath quilts and blankets. Don an over-sized, flannel robe, pair of fuzzy slippers and head to the kitchen for hot, strong coffee, the first sip warming you from within ...Can there be anything more familiar? more comforting? more basic? 

The PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails will guide you to experience the hometown feeling of central Pennsylvania. Each season brings its own comfort, joyful experience and connection, that will prompt you to claim central Pennsylvania as your own "hometown".

Occupy

Unless you have been sequested without television, newspaper, radio or internet, you've no doubt heard of the Occupy Movement. Started some months ago near Wall Street, NYC, , small bands of  disenfranchized gathered together in protest of what they perceive to be a broken system of power that government, banking, greedy corporations, etc. have over main stream society. The problem with this movement, many people believe, is that there is no common consesus of what exactly is being protested.

The quilt trail movement is not unlike the Occupy movement. Started originaly in Ohio by Donna Sue Groves in honor of a family member, it has spread throughout the nation (and Canada). And just like the Occupy movement, each trail, as well as each quilt piece, has a unique message and meaning.

In California the Lake County Quilt Trail celebrate American folk art within their rural agricultural communities. Burnsville North Carolina installed a vertical, sun-dial, quilt piece on their trail. The PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails honors loved ones, noted historic craftspeople, State Forest, small towns and family buisnesses.

Likewise the folks that follow a quilt trail brings their own unique expectations and experiences. Romance, quality family memories, reflection alone or with others, it's all part of the journey of following a quilt trail.

Answering the question, "What is a quilt trail?" is much like answering "What is the meaning of Occupy?" Both are many different things to different people. Come "occupy" the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails and make your own determination.

The Raven

It has been rumored for many, many years that around 1845 Edgar Allan Poe wrote his poem , "The Raven" while visiting the Eutaw House, Potters Mills, in central Pennsylvania. Though this rumor is highly disputed, in honor of scary stories, fairy tales and myths:

The Raven

By Edgar Allan Poe

first published 1845

Once upon a midnight dreary, while I pondered, weak and weary,

Over many a quaint and curious volume of forgotten lore,

While I nodded, nearly napping, suddenly there came a tapping,

As of someone gently rapping, rapping at my chamber door.
"
'Tis some visitor," I muttered, "tapping at my chamber door;

Only this, and nothing more."

Ah, distinctly I remember, it was in the bleak December,

And each separate dying ember wrought its ghost upon the floor.

Eagerly I wished the morrow; vainly I had sought to borrow

From my books surcease of sorrow, sorrow for the lost Lenore,.

For the rare and radiant maiden whom the angels name Lenore

Nameless here forevermore.

And the silken sad uncertain rustling of each purple curtain

Thrilled me---filled me with fantastic terrors never felt before;

So that now, to still the beating of my heart, I stood repeating,
"
'Tis some visitor entreating entrance at my chamber door,

Some late visitor entreating entrance at my chamber door.

This it is, and nothing more."

Presently my soul grew stronger; hesitating then no longer,

"Sir," said I, "or madam, truly your forgiveness I implore;

But the fact is, I was napping, and so gently you came rapping,

And so faintly you came tapping, tapping at my chamber door,

That I scarce was sure I heard you." Here I opened wide the door;---

Darkness there, and nothing more.

Deep into the darkness peering, long I stood there, wondering, fearing

Doubting, dreaming dreams no mortals ever dared to dream before;

But the silence was unbroken, and the stillness gave no token,

And the only word there spoken was the whispered word,

Lenore?.This I whispered, and an echo murmured back the word,

"Lenore!" Merely this, and nothing more.

Back into the chamber turning, all my soul within me burning,

Soon again I heard a tapping, something louder than before,

"Surely," said I, "surely, that is something at my window lattice.

Let me see, then, what thereat is, and this mystery explore.

Let my heart be still a moment, and this mystery explore.

" 'Tis the wind, and nothing more."

Open here I flung the shutter, when, with many a flirt and flutter,

In there stepped a stately raven, of the saintly days of yore.

Not the least obeisance made he; not a minute stopped or stayed he;

But with mien of lord or lady, perched above my chamber door.

Perched upon a bust of Pallas, just above my chamber door,

Perched, and sat, and nothing more.

Then this ebony bird beguiling my sad fancy into smiling,

By the grave and stern decorum of the countenance it wore,

"Though thy crest be shorn and shaven thou," I said, "art sure no craven,

Ghastly, grim, and ancient raven, wandering from the nightly shore.

Tell me what the lordly name is on the Night's Plutonian shore.
"
Quoth the raven, "Nevermore."

Much I marvelled this ungainly fowl to hear discourse so plainly,

Though its answer little meaning, little relevancy bore;

For we cannot help agreeing that no living human being

Ever yet was blessed with seeing bird above his chamber door,

Bird or beast upon the sculptured bust above his chamber door,

With such name as "Nevermore."

But the raven, sitting lonely on that placid bust, spoke only

That one word, as if his soul in that one word he did outpour.

Nothing further then he uttered; not a feather then he fluttered;

Till I scarcely more than muttered, "Other friends have flown before;

On the morrow he will leave me, as my hopes have flown before.
"
Then the bird said, "Nevermore."

Startled at the stillness broken by reply so aptly spoken,

"Doubtless," said I, "what it utters is its only stock and store,

Caught from some unhappy master, whom unmerciful disaster

Followed fast and followed faster, till his songs one burden bore,---

Till the dirges of his hope that melancholy burden bore

Of "Never---nevermore."

But the raven still beguiling all my sad soul into smiling,

Straight I wheeled a cushioned seat in front of bird, and bust and door;

Then, upon the velvet sinking, I betook myself to linking

Fancy unto fancy, thinking what this ominous bird of yore --

What this grim, ungainly, ghastly, gaunt and ominous bird of yore
                                       Meant in croaking "Nevermore."

Thus I sat engaged in guessing, but no syllable expressing

To the fowl, whose fiery eyes now burned into my bosom's core;

This and more I sat divining, with my head at ease reclining

On the cushion's velvet lining that the lamplight gloated o'er,

But whose velvet violet lining with the lamplight gloating o'er

She shall press, ah, nevermore!

Then, methought, the air grew denser, perfumed from an unseen censer

Swung by seraphim whose footfalls tinkled on the tufted floor.

"Wretch," I cried, "thy God hath lent thee -- by these angels he hath

Sent thee respite---respite and nepenthe from thy memories of Lenore!

Quaff, O quaff this kind nepenthe, and forget this lost Lenore!"

Quoth the raven, "Nevermore!"

"Prophet!" said I, "thing of evil!--prophet still, if bird or devil!

Whether tempter sent, or whether tempest tossed thee here ashore,

Desolate, yet all undaunted, on this desert land enchanted--

On this home by horror haunted--tell me truly, I implore:

Is there--is there balm in Gilead?--tell me--tell me I implore!"

Quoth the raven, "Nevermore."

"Prophet!" said I, "thing of evil--prophet still, if bird or devil!

By that heaven that bends above us--by that God we both adore--

Tell this soul with sorrow laden, if, within the distant Aidenn,

It shall clasp a sainted maiden, whom the angels name Lenore---

Clasp a rare and radiant maiden, whom the angels name Lenore?

Quoth the raven, "Nevermore."

"Be that word our sign of parting, bird or fiend!" I shrieked, upstarting--

"Get thee back into the tempest and the Night's Plutonian shore!

Leave no black plume as a token of that lie thy soul hath spoken!

Leave my loneliness unbroken! -- quit the bust above my door!

Take thy beak from out my heart, and take thy form from off my door!”

Quoth the raven, "Nevermore."

And the raven, never flitting, still is sitting, still is sitting

On the pallid bust of Pallas just above my chamber door;

And his eyes have all the seeming of a demon's that is dreaming.

And the lamplight o'er him streaming throws his shadow on the floor;

And my soul from out that shadow that lies floating on the floor

Shall be lifted---nevermore!

Technology and the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails

Most people, I suppose, keep some sort of reading materials in the loo. In my household a rotation of sales catalogs from Urban Outfitters, Free People and Pottery Barn, Martha Steward's Living and Sierra are the meat of commode reading.

This morning, mid way through Sierra I noticed a small announcement from The Pennsylvania State University Cooperative Extension-Lehigh. They have designed and made available publicly an ap (for iPhone and iPad-sorry other smart phone users). Functioning much like other "finder" aps, you can find farm fresh foods  by entering location and mileage range.

photo by Sharon Lee

What fun the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails can be with such an ap. As you travel from piece to piece your travels can be intersected with apple picking, fresh churned ice cream, farmers markets, Christmas tree farms and farm stands.

 

Lovely Lewisburg

This week  I was able to make a soft announcement of the addition of a new quilt square. The Packwood Museum in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, in conjunction with their 2012 upcoming quilt display, is the newest link in the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails.

Photo by Sharon Lee

Active well-kept downtown districts are rapidly becoming a thing of the past, yet not so for Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. Located on the west branch of the Susquehanna River, Lewisburg has charming architecture, an active 19th century, historic, downtown shopping center, museums, restaurants and  taverns.

In the next coming weeks, information about the Packwood Museum quilt square will be available here on this blog as well as on PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails' official website at www.paquilttrails.org.

If you or your family or group would like to sponsor a quilt square contact 

PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails

23 North Main Street 

Lewisburg, PA 17044

717-248-4901 ext 326

administrator@paquilttrails.org

Choosing a pattern

Recently the executive director of Community Partnerships RC&D, the driving force behind the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails, decided it was high time for its own quilt square to be istalled at the Taylor House, home of Community Partnerships RC&D and the headquarters of the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails. It was decided that the quilt square needs to combine all the elements of what Community Partnerships does including conservation, organic transition, the Taylor House and its history, folk arts and community.

I decided to first research Amish "Big Valley" quilts from the neighboring communities. There are several factions of Amish and Menonite communities that have resided in the Big Valley, just over the mountain ridge, from Lewistown for the past 100 years.

One pattern, the "nine-patch" is used within all sects. It is one of the most basic patterns yet quite lovely in its simplicity. Traditionally the colors would be determined by scraps of used clothes and left over fabric. In this piece the colors will represent the colors of the fields and mountains of Pennsylvania.

Hopefully in the next few weeks there will be a mock up made that can be photographed and shared within this blog. Community Partnerships RC&D is looking for painters to paint this piece. 

If you or your group are interested please contact PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails at:

23 North Main Stret

Lewistown, PA7044

717-248-49011 ext 326

administrator@paquilttrails.org

In central Pennsylvania, October 1st (depending on elevation) is roughly the last day of frost free weather. Now begins the season of warm afternoons, crisp, cool evenings, the smell of wood burning, mouthwatering, tart apples and the most wonderful array of colors imaginably.  

Cornflower blue skies against  the display of foliage, changing colors, is truly a sight to behold. In the central Pennsylvania woods, fall asters and flowering grasses abound. Central Pennsylvania's Farmers Markets and road side stands' bounty includes: huge orange pumpkins, crisp, ambrosial, red and green apples, plump, juicy, purple and green grapes, an abundance of tomatoes (both red and green once the frost hits) and yellow, orange, green and blue squashes.

My daughter loves the fall for the opportunity to unearth her sweaters. Quite the fashionista, her wardrobe is at its best in the sweater months. For the less fashion conscious, there is nothing like dressing with a softly worn cashmere sweater during the months of fall.

Following the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails during the central Pennsylvania this time of year is the experience you will always equate with fall. Come for the day, explore your own backyard, spend a night or two in one of central Pennsylvania's charming inns or B&Bs. Visit the Magdalean Briner trail rug at the Tuscarora Forest. Stop at the Hunters Valley Winery and see where the grapes are grown and bottled. Have your photograph taken with the first PA Quilt (and Rug) Trail quilt square while sipping on a glass of Niagara wine.

PA Quit (and Rug) Trails is surpassing expectations and growing. Now would be a great time to financially support this endeavour. Earmark holiday gifts. Donate any amount, all is equally appreciated. Click on the Paypal button on the top right and you can easily make a donation right away even if you do not have a Paypal account. Support The PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails and be part of something great now and in the future.

For more information about the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails 
go to 

www.paquilttrails.org

PA Quilt (and Rug ) Trails is a project of Community Partnerships RC&D

Contracts, Responsibilities and Requirements

A little over a year since its inception, the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails has grown with complexity. With this complexity, it becomes time to take a step back, reassess the system that has been in place and reconfigure a few things.

And what does all this mean?
I now have the beginnings of written expectations for all the parties site owners,  painters, sponsors, and administration) involved with a PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails square. By writing down the necessary requirements and responsibilities, all parties will know what is needed and can assess accordingly. Though still in the composing stage, by having a clear statement questions can be addressed more clearly and precise.
Once the contract is completed and approved by the the Executive Director of Community Partnerships RC&D, it will be added to the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails website (www.paquilttrails.org) and available for public viewing.

Trails thoughts

The question I pose to myself each week, before I sit down to write this blog is "How do I present the Pa Quilt (and Rug) Trails to the web, creating interest?" Interest in the process, interest in encouraging visitors to the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails as well as interest in financially supporting this community endeavor.

photo by Kristen Price

And the truth is I have no idea. Thanks to Community Partnerships RC&D I have the great opportunity to administrate the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails. I was told at the inception of the trail to create something that served the communities of Central Pennsylvania. Tell all what is important to you community via the trail. Honor your loved ones and descendants. Honor your craft, art, and most of all your community.


Support the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails in anyway you can. For financial donations either mail check or money order to:

Community Partnerships RC&D

23 North Main Street

Lewistown, PA 17044

We also now accept Paypal. Simply click on the Paypal link and you are on your way.

The state of the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails

September is the end of the fiscal year for Community Partnerships RC&D. This is also a great time of reflection-what has been done the past year, what expectations are there for the year to come.

The PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails is now a bit more than a year old with the upcoming year already looking to surpass what we had hoped for. Although all of the new squares can't officially be named, in the works are four new squares, including PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails Headquarters (23 North Main Street, Lewistown), Mont Alto Historical Society (Mont Alto), as well as two unnamed squares in Juniata and Union counties. We yet to find a sponsor for the Military Square, which will honor service men and women, though hopes are high to get this special square underway soon.

As PA Quilt (and Rug)Trails grows, so do plans of expansion. In the future, hopefully, there will be phone accessed messages for each square, tours and rallies, a beautifully photographed "coffee table" book and brochures with more details including maps, back stories and site information.

It is a thrill and an honor to be part of something at its inception. Community Partnerships RC&D, in the true sense of partnerships set out to initiate a community partnership by administrating a quilt trail and the community has embraced this project with open arms and hearts.

Support PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails with any size donation.

Send check or money order to:

PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails

Community Partnerships RC&D

23 North Main Street

Lewistown, PA

717-248-4901

administrator@paquilttrails.org

Labor Day Musings

If it weren't for its name, the meaning of the Labor Day holiday would have been lost many end-of summer outings ago. Originally begun in the late 1800s, today Labor Day, once set aside as a holiday to the workers of the United States, has come to mark the unofficial end of summer.

Though only one year old the PA Quilt Trails has also gone through its own transformation. After the installation of the first Trail Rug at the Tuscarora State Forest the work rug has been added and is known as the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails. Perhaps sometime in the near future other factions of traditional arts will influence the trail and the name adjusted accordingly.

Community Partnerships RC&D originally planned on creating several trails including one viewed from a train car. Many of these original ideas have been put on the back burner quietly simmering like a pot of soup,  pursuing rather, ideas of the community, allowing the trail to grow organically.

Right now the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails is seeking community support. Whether through a sponsorship, painting a square or just spreading the word, you can expand your community project to be community centric serving those in central Pennsylvania now and the future. Honor your local firefighters with a "Firefighter Square", show pride for your school by having a "School Square" or promote something in the community that needs a shout out.

$350 is the cost to sponsor a quilt square. This pays the costs of paint, wood, brushes, tape and other materials needed to produce a square.

For more information Contact:

Community Partnerships RC&D 
PA Quilt (and )Rug Trails

at 717-248-4901 ext 326

administrator@paquilttrails.org

Putting your shirt on backwards

Today, August 29, 2011, I am writing this post from southeast Arizona. If anyone has ever been to southeast Arizona in August you will agree that August is not the prime month to be visiting this area. Remember all those times people told you the southwest has "dry" heat and 100 degrees feels much cooler? Not so during the summer monsoon season which brings daily  heavy afternoon/evening rains and with it high humidity and BUGS.  I probably could go on for pages about the bugs: chiggers, wasps, mosquitoes, and my most unfavoured noseeums. Every part of my flesh is covered with the swollen itching remains of bites from these little pests.

Last evening after a full day of sweating and bites I took a late night bath. Anxious to get fully dressed before the feeding frenzy restarted I quickly pulled on my shirt and to my house mate's delight, dressed myself with a shirt that was on backwards. Once the laughter and giggles dies down I began to think about how inattentive I was in dressing and wondered what other things I did that lacked full attention.

As a long time resident of central Pennsylvania, sometimes I barely notice the beauty of the state. Working on the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails has made me stop and take notice of the surroundings. The colors of the rolling farm lands are a beautiful palate of greens, browns, and yellows. Places like Hunters Valley (home of the first PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails square) has a view of the Susquehanna River that is stunning. On the drive from Hunters Valley Winery to the Tuscarora Forest to see the Magdalean Trail Rug there is an enclave of Amish residents with road side farm stands and (on Fridays) an Amish bakery with the most delicious, still warm donuts, cookies and breads.

This fall when the colors of central Pennsylvania are at their most fabulous take a day off and follow the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails. Even if you have lived in central Pennsylvania your entire life, take the tour, open your eyes and ears and nose and pay attention.

August 15, 2011

It goes without saying that mid-August is a time of change. In central Pennsylvania, in the evenings, sweaters an/or jackets are sometimes donned, leaves begin to change, school buses return to the roads once again, crisp apples appear and thoughts turn to winterizing, indoor activities, and shorter daylight. For residents and visitors alike fall, in central Pennsylvania is "THE" place to be.

Following the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails you  travel through forests and farmlands, in fall, all ablaze with vibrant reds, purples, oranges, greens and yellows. Amish hay bales are collected in the field and stacked looking like a real-life Van Gogh painting. Farmers Markets and road side stands are full of vine ripened tomatoes, squashes, pumpkins, pears and apples. Wineries are busy harvesting their grapes and pressing them into delicious red and white wines. Last year I was lucky enough to stop by Hunters Valley Winery on a day they were hand pressing their red wine.

This year if you are local or visiting take some time out to go look at some of the pieces of the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails. Our newest square which will be installed in the next few weeks at Heirloom Cabinetry in Mifflintown has one of the prettiest views of farm land and rolling hills.

And send photos of your travels along the PA Quilt (and Rug)Trails. We would love to re-post your photos!

Send to 

Administrator@paquilttrails.org 

We will post as many photos as possible.

August 9, 2011

The hardest part of writing a blog is keeping secrets. I know that sounds terrible and perhaps you feel betrayed by my dishonesty but first let me explain.

This past week I discussed the very good possibility, with two separate entities, the sponsorship of two new quilt squares. This very exciting news for the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails, one that I am quite anxious to share. However........I have learned through the process of administering the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails that negotiations usually need to reach a certain stage until announcements are made. Situations change, not always for the worse,  but pre-mature announcements tend to be confusing.

Six days ago I lost my dog, Sophie (Lady Sophia of Cambria). She was young and her death was a total surprise. I have spent the better part of the week blaming myself for not seeing her illness and doubting my ability to be a good pet owner. But as the week progressed I Googled a bit, reflected our life together and found I probably have the ability to be a good dog (or cat) Mom. In only six days my grief is closer to the joy I had being my constant companion for the five short years she was here.

If nothing ever changed, there'd be no butterflies.  ~Author Unknown

So the best I can do for this blog is whisper in your ear via  the Internet that most possibly, there are two new quilt squares negotiations in the works. Will announce confirmations as soon as possible.

Don't forget to check out PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails website for news and updates.

<paquilttrails.org>>

If you, your family or group would be interested in sponsoring a quilt square please contact:

Sharon Lee 

adminstration@paquilttrails.org 

or call Community Partnerships RC&D/ PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails 

717-248-4901 ext 326

WELCOME HOME Square

 

Photo by Rick Brandt

This week I put out a press release looking for  sponsor and or site for a quilt square honoring men and women who have or are serving our country.

As a parent of a twenty-one year old (twenty-two in nine days), I have watched a steady stream of her peers graduate high school, then enlist in a branch of the armed forces. Central Pennsylvania residents have a deep connection to our present and past military.

The average recruit comes from a community that is slightly less densely populated than average for the United States. There is some under-representation of youth from most urban areas of our country in the enlisted ranks. The enlisted Army recruit population is skewed more toward rural and suburban areas than is the total population of 17-24 year old youth in the United States." 1

Pennsylvania is one of the states with the highest recruitments.

1 http://www.2k.army.mil/faqs.htm#state

If you, your family or group would like to participate as a sponsor, painter, or site contact 

Sharon Lee at:

 administrator@paquilttrails.org

77-248-4901 ext 326

July 25, 2011

It seems like it's been ages since I lasted posted. The world's first Trail Rug has been installed and unveiled. The unveiling was an emotional event, something I will remember for many years. One of the charms of the PA Quilt (And Rug) Trails is its flexibility in being guided by the community not visa versa. To me, it is one of its most appealing attributes.

Currently two quilt squares are being worked on, both sponosored by the Juniata Valley Quilter's Guild. Thanks to the groups generousity, both Mifflin and Juniata counties will be the homes of two new pieces.

In the works is a quilt square honoring those men and women who have served our country. We are looking for a sponsor and/or location. The pattern   will be a symbolic piece honoring our military who so generously give their time and sometimes their lives to keep us safe at home.

Photo by Rick Brandt

If you know of any groups or location that would be interested in sponosoring a "patriotic" square contact:

Community Partnerships RC&D

717-248-4901 extension 326

administrator@paquilttrails.org

July 11, 2011

The tables and tents have been put away, remnants of sandwiches and cake are gone and all that remains is the first Trail Rug of any quilt trail. On Friday, July 8, 2011, sixty or so people were on hand to see history in the making. In attendance were Community Partnerships RC&D staff, residents, friends and employees of Locust Grove Rehabilitation and Retirement Village, Tuscarora State Forest staff, Kathy Wright,director of Sauder Village rug hooking week, Deb Smith, aeditor of Rug Hooking magazine, Eby/Briner family members, Representative Mark Keller, Books Catering, and media.

All were there to celebrate the installation of a Trail Rug, the first of its kind, honoring primitive local rug hook artisan, Magdalena Briner Eby. Magdalena and many of her family members lived on land that is now part of the Tuscarora State Forest. She is considered one of the masters of hooked rugs. Today her pieces are highly sought after.

Facing the challenging task of translating one of her whimsical rugs,  Locust Grove Rehabilitation and Retirement Village residents succeeding in capturing the color, whimsy and beauty of Magdalena's original piece. Under the direction of Freda Durio who had only a photo copy of a photo of the original rug, a beautiful painted 8' x 6' replica was created.

This piece now resides at the Tuscarora State Forest Fire Building located next to the Ranger Station.

As a member of the group that was responsible this Trail Rug, I was proud to be part of a project that brought together so many community members, working together on something unique, beautiful and that will last for years and years.

Make it a point to visit this newest addition tot the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails and see what happens when the past meets the present and the future.

Thanks to the following people who participated in making history happen

Sam Price

Larry Schardt

Sharon Lee

Community Partnerships RC&D board members

Mike Lennartz

Melissa Holden

Kevin Morgan

Kristen Price

Joe Fiore

Bob Lyter

Gene Odato

Dennis Chestnut

Andrew Glodek

Tom Milheim

Curtis Robinson

Bill Hain

Mike Kessler

Steve Wacker

Adam Kling

Andrew Baker

Kathy Odato

Penn DOT Perry County

Randy Tressler

Chuck Shumaker

Eric Boozel

Deb Smith

Kathy Wright

Stackpole Book

Rug Hooking Magazine

Locust Grove Retirement and Rehabilitation Village

Freda Durio

Grace Donahey (post mortem)

Jimmy James

Shirley Guiser

Martha Price

Dale Gray

Janice Hipple

Bea Wilson

Kathy Breon

Jim Nale

Jane Passmore

Pat Arnold

Maintenance Department of Locust Grove

June 29, 2011

Just as in life, people involved with the PA Quilt (And Rug) Trails come and go. Though the trail is only a year old, three significant players have disappeared.

Larry Schardt was one of the primary forces that made PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails a reality. Larry was my Soils 422 professor at Penn State University Park campus. I was fortunate to earn an internship at Community Partnerships RC&D after graduation and was given the task to make the trail a reality. In January 2011, Larry officially retired his position as NRCS coordinator of Community Partnerships RC&D, moving on to work on his personal passions: motivational speaking, book writing, skiing and spreading the word of "Rock and Roll". Thank you Dr. Rock and Roll for bringing smiles to people and sharing your enthusiasm for community.

David E. Shenk III, an active board member as well as president of Community Partnerships RC&D, recently fell ill and will no longer be able to serve as a board member. Because of the support of CPRC&D, the PA quilt (and Rug) Trails was able to become a reality and thrive. Thank you Dave for all you have done for the PA Quilt (And Rug) Trails, Community Partnerships RC&D and our community.

Grace Donahey was one of the Tuscarora State Forest Trail Rug painters. Grace, as well as the other residents of Locust Grove Retirement and Rehabilitation Village, were faced with the challenge of translating a hooked rug pattern made of scraps of yarn into a 6' x 8' painted piece that well represented the original piece. Thank you Grace for leaving evidence of your talents behind to be shared now and with future generations.

June 20, 2011

One of the best things about following the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails is exploring the beautiful countrysides and charming small towns of central Pennsylvania. As a past resident of this area one thing that stands out in my mind is the plethora of wonderful gardens. From the delightful Peter Rabbit style postage stamp gardens, to the meticulous gardens of Amish women, central Pennsylvania has the perfect weather to create lush oasis of flowers, veggies, herbs and foliage.

Each garden has its own natural beauty. If you stop a central Pennsylvanian gardener to ask about their garden you will most likely leave after a brief discourse of biology and with an armful of ripened zucchini.

Come follow the scent and the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails

June 13, 2011

This morning while I was on the phone with the activities director of Locust Grove Rehabilitation and Retirement Village, discussing the final touches of the Trail Rug, I watched a yellow bird fighting with a hummingbird at the bird feeder. I wish I could tell you what species the yellow bird and/or hummingbird was, but I was multi-tasking and unable to turn my full attention to bird identification.

And why am I blogging about this bird interaction? Actually I'm not sure except that as with most aspects of coordinating the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails it is a project of multi-tasking. Today for instance while on the phone with Locust Grove's Freda Durio, I had my mail program open to write an email to Community Partnerships RC&D staff member Mike Lennartz hoping he would help me procure paper products, chips and a cake for the Trail Rug unveiling. At the same time I was searching through an antique wooden file box for the index card with contact information for Skills of Central Pennsylvania, the group working on another quilt square. An email from Packwood Museum that needed to be addressed was open on  my desktop. Add to that petting my border collie, lying at my feet, listening to see if the washing machine has finished its cycle and writing a to-do list, I am the epitome of multi-tasking.

Like multi-tasking the PA Quilt (and Rug) trails is multi-faceted. The Trail Rug to be hung in less than a month at the Tuscarora State Forest, took about forty people to make happen. Hard to imagine but true. And each of us with a specific task at hand added to the whole, making a fantastic piece that will be availble to all for many, many years to come.

Come join PA Quilt (and Rug) trails as we unveiled this special addition to our trail

July 8th, 2011, 11AM 

Tuscarora State Forest Fire Station

Blain, Pennsylvania

For more information contact:

Sharon Lee, administrator of Pa Quilt (and Rug) Trails 

administrator@paquilttrails,org

717-248-4901 ext 326

June 7, 2011

May 31, 2011

Still working on website. Hope to be up and running early next week.

May 24, 2011

Under Construction

There will be a brief hiatus while I create a PA Quilt (And Rug) Trails official website. While updating my "quilt trails" data base (info about all other quilt trails) I noticed that we did not have a web site although we do have a web presence through Facebook, blogging, Youtube, etc. Figured it was time to get a formal website created. I expect all to be completed in two weeks time. Until then Facebook postings will be fewer and blogging will be put on hold. Will announce website address once all is up and running.

Till then,
Sharon Lee
administrator of PA Quilt (and Rug)Trails

May 17, 2011

There's a shrub that grows in southeast Arizona with the most beautiful flowers appearing early spring. My friend, the Park Ranger calls these flowers either red or yellow "Birds of Paradise". My brief Google search left me with more questions than answers and I hope you will forgive my lack of concrete knowledge. Most people in southeast Arizona barely pay a glance at these ever present shrubs. I can't say for sure that they are native wildflowers but it appears they have naturalized, thriving and a sight to behold.

So what is the connection between the Bird of Paradise and the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails?

The PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails is  currently is spreading throughout central Pennsylvania. The idea did not originate in Pennsylvania but has now infiltrated and rooted itself here quite nicely. Like the Bird of Paradise, the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails is a delightful sight that brightens the landscape.

P.S.It is important in these "hard economic times" to remember things of beauty. Please if you have wanted to support the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails now is the season. $350 pays all costs and expenses per square. Donate today and be part of the beauty flowering of central Pennsylvania.

May 9, 2011

Work has begun on PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails newest square, one of two squares sponsored by the Juniata Valley Quilters' Guild. The design chosen by the group is the Carpenter's Wheel design, appropriate for its placement on the Heirloom Cabintry barn in  Mifflintown. This beautiful patch is to be painted in brick red, steel blue and creme by the Skills of Central Pennsylvania group under the tutelage of Kay Weimer.

According to Owen Sound's Black History website (http://www.osblackhistory.com/quiltcodes.php ) the Carpenter's Wheel was one of many quilts used to pass information assisting black men, women and children as they fled slavery.

PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails is proud to add this outstanding pattern to our growing quilt and rug trail

May 2, 2011

There are many steps involved in designing, creating, hanging and promoting the PA Quilt (and Rug)Trails pieces. Because of governmental budget cuts we recentlty lost one of our office "handymen" so Kevin Morgan, Natural Research Specialists, and Mike Lennartz, Conservation Administrator, graciously volunteered to do a hardware run to get the supplies necessary for the Locust Grove Rehabilitation and Retirement Center residents to get going on the nation's first Trail Rug. 20 sponge brushes, 3 paint brushes, 1 gallon of high quality primer, 4 rolls of painter's tape, two pieces of 4' x 8'-3/4" exterior plywood, and 12 quarts of multi-colored paint later, all has been delivered and the hands-on work begun.

Freda Durio is the woman at site, coordinating the painting of the Trail Rug, with help from friends, neighbors as well as many Locus Grove residents. In about a month the piece will be delivered to the Ranger Station at the Tuscarora Station in Blain, PA, equipment secured, and the piece will be hung.

Over all when all is said and done over one-hundred people will be involved in this project from begining to end.

Community Partnerships RC&D is all about partnerships with the end goal being an enhancement of the community and its residents. The PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails is an excellent illustration of those types of partnerships, how intregral partnerships are to making a quality community, with a visual piece a reminder of this process.

Support PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails today. Sponsorships and all donations are needed and much appreciated.

April 25, 2011

With the one year anniversary of the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails approaching, it is rewarding to see how far we've come to make this community project a reality. Eleven months ago, as an intern for Community Partnerships RC&D in Lewistown, PA,  I was instructed to make a quilt trail. The first month or so I spent researching quilt trails and driving around discovering many hidden jewels and beautiful vistas of central Pennsylvania. Although, at the time, I had been a central PA resident for twenty-two years I discovered lovely forests , rustic farmlands, sleepy small towns, museums, and charming down towns that I had not known about before.


Although Hunters Valley Winery is often credited as the first quilt of the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails, there were actually two quilt square commitments within days of each other. The Sewing Shanty of Selinsgrove, with its beautiful inlaid wood quilt square, created in remembrance of a family member, was hung within days of Hunters Valley Winery.

Today there are four squares in various states of being created. One "Trail Rug" is to be hung this summer at the Tuscarora State Forest Ranger Station in Blain, PA. It is the first Trail Rug of any of the quilt trails throughout the nation!

Next year promises to be just as exciting with more squares, a newly designed brochure and the completion of an official PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails map. The year after? Book, photo contests, PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails official tours? Who knows the sky is truly the limit.

April 20, 2011

The latest Federal budget cut has eliminated Federal partnership with all RC&Ds. Some RC&D will no longer be able to function without this partnership. Because of great community support and a dynamic board, Community Partnerships RC&D will continue to function as a non-profit organization.

So what does this mean in terms of the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails?

Currently the PA Quilt Trail (and Rug) will continue as is- the future however, in this time of economic turmoil, is uncertain. Now is the time most needed to show your financial support of this great community project. While sponsor fees pay the costs of the squares themselves, Community Partnerships RC&D will federal assistance have been paying administration costs and all other expenses related to this project.

Please, please, please! Donate now via PAYPAL. check, cash, etc. Any amount small or large is greatly appreciated.

April 11, 2011

Last week I was putting together a presentation about the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails for the board of Community Partnerships RC&D. As I collected photos to use in this presentation I was reminded of the beauty of Quilt Trails which are now throughout over half of the United States.

As I looked through Quilt Trail photos, I was reminded of how much fun following a quilt trail could be. And it doesn't have to be done all at once. Grab a buddy or take a drive alone and go find a square in your own neighborhood. By following these delightful treasures one can discover the beauty of the area while being reminded of it's cultural side. To me, a Quilt Trail is a well designed "Scavenger Hunt" with the path of finding the treasure (Quilt or Rug Square) as much a part of the fun. 

Post your quilt trail photos here from the PA Quilt Trails and beyond!

March 26, 2011