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".