WOW. JUST WOW.

Day One of my two day visit at Homewoond Middle School, and I cannot wait to share some pics with you. I spoke to 6th, 7th and 8th graders, and I was brought to tears more than once by the way this community of teachers, parents and readers embraced LEAVING GEE'S BEND and made it as personal as possible.

Not only did a group of students travel to Gee's Bend to meet the quilters, but they also...

...dressed up like characters from the story.


...created displays based on passages in the book. Like this one, about napkins folded like birds.


...invited quilters to come stitch and share sewing tips and some of their favorite quilts.


...made 3-D storyboards. SO VERY AMAZING! This one shows Mrs. Cobb's house and barn.


...rounded up quilting gear for tablescapes and made lemon cake and decorated the lunch boxes in fabric-pieced ribbon and and and...


More to come. The group presented me with a gift I will treasure ALWAYS. Can't wait to share!

But first. Must sleep. And prepare for my return visit tomorrow.
Thanks, y'all for sharing my joy. And HMS students, parents and faculty: You are amazing, and I will cherish this experience forever. xo