Hello all, Mary Ellen here.

Had my annual checkup this week, and got my annual advice about getting more exercise. As I decide annually, I will try to do more. (yah, right!)

But to be honest I do notice that more than in my younger years, I feel tired and sometimes sore after a long session of stitching. Does that mean quilting is a workout? No, more likely pieces and parts are either suffering a bit from repetitive motion, or stiffening up from not enough motion. Recently on the Quilty video series (with Mary Fons, daughter of Marianne Fons of Fons and Porter fame) there was a video about stretching out before and after sewing. The nurse who was the guest gave several good ideas for quilters, many of which could easily be done right in your sewing chair. It would be good for all of us to take care of those quilty aches and pains, so we don’t have to give up our favorite pastime.

Here’s a link to the FREE video: sewing stretch out.

I’ve been stretching a different set of muscles the past couple of days–mostly those hamstrings one stretches when bending over in the garden, or whatever muscle group(s) are used while kneeling to weed. (Big graduation party happening next door soon–want to make sure whatever garden is visible while they look over the fence is in good shape.) I’m ready now for the mulch delivery. Here’s hoping the heat index goes down soon!