I showed a picture of the current quilt to a friend. The border was not yet on, it was just laying in place.

 

"The zebra legs don't all go the same direction."

 

I was annoyed at the correction, to the point of considering keeping it that way. Because I could. But by the time I actually attached them to the blocks I turned the misfit one around.

 

Creating wardrobes for the cast of the spring show is a part of each day. I measure and sew, sort into sizes, take up hems, hunt for just the right shade of blue. It is a solitary job most of the time, though five stellar students give their enthusiastic energy two hours a week. 

 

The other morning one of my girls made conversation as she packed her lunch and snacks for a ten hour day. 

 

"How are the costumes going?"

 

"There are more possibilities in the storage room every time I look. I pulled two wedding dresses, and took one to the cleaners. The other one has real potential, and I bravely sliced off the sleeves and train. It has the right neckline, and I started adding yellow flowers and ribbons and lace. I pulled five or six men's suits in the correct style, and made some adjustments. There are skirts and blouses and aprons by every girl's name, with about a dozen extras if they are not right." I blathered on as she spread avocado on her breakfast toast. 

 

"Mom, you are killing it!"

 

I have been assured that that is meant to be a compliment. 

 

"I can't wait to see them! You are amazing!"

 

My shoulders straightened. Her words made me feel as if I can do this. She believes in me. 

 

Her comments didn't take long, which is good because time was short. She whisked out the door and into her day tossing an affectionate goodbye over her shoulder. 

 

But her encouragement stayed with me. I thought about the comments I easily hand out. Do I find mistakes? Or celebrate success? 

 

There are some that need to be turned around.