By Trina O’Quinn for the NABBW How does needlework and quilting bring me Joy? In several ways: Tactiley — the feel of the cloth and thread in my hand and fingers brings me a sense of calm. Audibly — the sound of the pop of the cloth as the needle pierces the material from the other side. Audibly –the sound of the swish of the thread as it is pulled through to the top side of the piece where the picture is being created. Visually — watching the different stitches build the picture. These small steps are a process of creation that brings me great joy. When I quiet... Read More

By Trina O’Quinn for the NABBW I ended my last blog stating that I was going to use the following prompts to set my year of Joy. I hope that they helped you in January and February as they have me. Prompt #1: “What are you most proud of from 2022? Both my daughter (56 years old) and I were with my mother when she took her last breath here on earth. When I put her in the hospital in late December 2021, I was afraid that she would die alone before my daughter and eldest granddaughter (25) would be able to get to California from Washington State. They made it and were able to spend some... Read More

Boomers and Empty-Nesters don’t want to be over committed with schedules and yet they want to participate. I hear this over and over and I understand. They ask me how to choose, how do they know if they are making a difference, and will they be trained? You can begin by talking with yourself about things you like: Education Gardening The Arts Politics Going Green Medicine Law Nature Sports Leadership Animals Military Special education Make a list of what is fun for you. Sounds so simple and yet we forget that step. Then research those words with mentoring and volunteering attached and see... Read More