Quilts are a standard in my weekly routine. The kids try to drum up enthusiasm when I churn out a fresh pineapple or Storm at Sea but really they are saturated with my efforts.
Because of recent events I have turned my attention toward those items that support doctors and nurses trying to stay clean.
Masks? Check.
Gowns? Check.
Then a friend asked for scrub caps. I hunted online for information on the details, and found a pattern available for a few bucks. I am not sure if it was frugality, or my ego but I wanted to figure out how to make these without paying for a design with two pieces.
Most of an hour and a small pile of chopped fabric later I had a prototype. I liked it and cranked out eleven more. My friend picked them up, sprayed them with disinfectant and went to work her shift in the ER.
I have always respected her for her chosen profession. In much the same way that I am grateful for illumination when I flick the light switch or open the freezer to hunt for broccoli. I don't exactly dance a jig, though I am glad. But seeing a photo of her with the fresh hat on made me choke up.
"I feel your calm presence" she texted.
Just like that, my capacity for admiration and love expanded. What had been a dormant sheet at the thrift store was now a garment, destined to protect a woman on the front lines of medicine who is also my friend.
Could I love her more? It turns out I can.
