Everybody's Talking

"The world is too much with us," wrote the great English Romantic poet William Wordsworth around 1802. More than two centuries later, that sentiment still reverberates. I sometimes wonder what Wordsworth would have thought about our technologically advanced age, where words and images fly around the world at lightning speed. While many of us might be tempted to agree with him, the truth is that we've come to depend on our high-tech gadgets. Imagine life now without cell phones, computers, televisions, digital cameras, and, of course, high-speed sewing machines—none of which existed when Wordsworth wrote his famous sonnet.

I think the best thing about the internet age is that it's brought the world a little closer. Through Facebook and Twitter, especially, we've been able to connect with readers to find out about their likes and dislikes, to initiate debates, and to accept suggestions. For example, we learned that "Quilting in the Dark" was one of the most popular articles in the September issue and that many of you are requesting more scrap patterns and budget-friendly projects. If you would like to weigh in with your own thoughts and ideas, feel free to join the discussions!

Meanwhile, this issue of TQ contains a variety of small seasonal projects that can be made before the last autumn leaf drops—table toppers, place settings, and lap quilts to throw over a chair or sofa. You'll also read about Mary Campbell Ghormley's extensive collection of antique doll quilts, as well as Eileen Doughty's fabulous threadwork. Be sure to visit the non-denominational chapel in Friedens, Pennsylvania, where a set of four 80" high 9/11 memorial quilts hang, and discover how quilts are being used to brighten the lives of Alzheimer's patients.

We hope you enjoy both the autumn season and this colorful issue of TQ. Don't forget to follow us at www.twitter.com/thequiltermag and friend us at www.facebook.com/thequiltermag!