Monday, June 11, 2007

Front Page

I opened the paper this morning to find most of the front page and most of page 4 covering The Cottages at the Glen and Alzheimer's related articles. I found this link to the article and then saw this video news link (click watch) - this program, that my brother saw on the news, is what instigated the investigation of The Cottages. Based on The Green House Model, the Cottages are by far the most social, pleasant, and interactive long-term care facility in the area. I'm afraid this is a subject that all of us are touched by, and we can only hope that progress will continue to be made in caring for the increasing numbers of us who will need special care.

Fee wanted "Her Mouth" framed, but since it is 9 x 15 1/2", it doesn't fit into a standard frame. I bought this cheap metal frame at Michael's, took out the glass, covered the cardboard with black fabric, and just pinned it on. Took the picture at a wonky angle; too lazy to do it again. I should also probably pay more attention to size when starting a small piece, in case I want to frame it. Another idea that I've seen is to use black foam board. Most of my things have a sleeve for hanging or are small enough to go with the clips, but Fee likes a frame.

How do you display pieces? I've seen some wonderful pieces in frames, so some people think ahead.

13 comments:

  1. I heard a segment on public radio about The Green House Model. (I tried to find a link for you, but the only one I could find was from June 2005, and I know it was more recent than that. It may have actually been a recent segment on Alzheimer's.) It's a wonderful concept and you are so fortunate to have a facility near you. I can only imagine the weight that's been lifted from your shoulders. It's sad enough without feeling less than good about your father's care.

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  2. I so want A Green House Model to live in some day! I love the saying on that little quilt - suits me.

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  3. Someone's blog (I should know whose, but I don't) had a long sequence about framing. I borrowed part of her idea which was very much like what you've done. I sewed the piece to a piece of foam board with stitches that barely show on top and are long underneath, and then put it in the frame w/o glass. Worked well except it was hard to squeeze the foam board into the space where only cardboard had been. You can also attach stick on Velcro to the foam board and it will probably grab the back of the piece (if not, you can stick velcro to the back of your quilt). This way you can change what's in the frame. I think Nellie of Nellie's Needles gets credit for this idea. It's not mine originally, I know.

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  4. Love that little saying and your rendition of it. Looks great just the way it is. I haven't framed anything quilt-related but I have framed some counted cross stitch work in the past, some with a mat and glass and others stretched over some batting with a frame, no glass.

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  5. appreciate the link on the green house model--I've long been interested/active in innovative programs for folks with special needs. first thing I saw when I clicked on the ghm link was the mention of the robert wood johnson foundation - my instant reaction was now there's some rich folks who have their hearts, minds and WALLETS in the right places (most of the time.) discussion reminded me of a book I have used/recommended that I think you might enjoy (if you don't know of it already) Learning from Hannah: Secrets of a Life Worth Living by wm. thomas

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  6. Jane Ann - We do feel incredibly lucky to have this available!

    Gerrie - With such a huge segment of the population aging, I hope more of these models become available! It is amazing what a difference little things like high ceilings can make... When all of the details come together, it does feel like home.

    Kay - :) I check with Nellie on so MANY things... she's a whirlwind of creative ideas and solutions! I also think I'll have Fee make some simple frames to fit the project (rather than the other way around) since he is the one who prefers frames!

    Connie - I love the saying, too, and in my mind's eye, see the individual that inspired the quilt everytime I look at it!

    kimy - It is wonderful that some people with deep pockets also have full hearts! No, I'm not familiar with the book you mention, but I'm putting it on my list. Thanks, kimy!

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  7. I can't tell which I love more - the quilt itself or Fee's attachment to it ...

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  8. David Walker frames his little postcard sized art quilts. I think it makes them look more important, more like ART. He uses a mat (I think grey or black, I'm not sure), & a meta frame. I've often thought I should do the same with some of mine, but never have.

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  9. Jen, I want to start a movement to get some legislation passed requiring health care workers who work with AD patient to have specialized training. We were very watchful with mother but from time to time I would get a whiff of a CNA who was impatient because she clearly did not understand AD and how it affects people. We always reported anythign we didn't like and probably got a reputation but on the other hand, they knew we were observing and would not hesitate to insist on it being made right. But anyone working with AD patients needs to UNDERSTAND how to care for these very special patients. Off my soapbox now!

    Love the quilt, too by the way! :-)

    I'm so glad for you that you feel your Dad is in a good facility. All my best to you and him!

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  10. i'd like to be able to think ahead, but generally I make things the size they want to be, and then not have a way to display it afterwards.

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  11. I think it looks great framed. I've sewn odd shaped small pieces onto the fabric backing, or used the 3-d foam sticky mounting strips too. Both work pretty well. Some stuff just looks better framed. I'm glad that the Green House Model is working out so well, it sure looks like a great alternative!

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  12. I hope everything is ok with you and Laddie. Haven't seen you post in a while.

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  13. Yep, frame it. Don't know how but it will look so cute.

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Good to hear from you!