Stitching My Way Back: Quilts, Japan, and Mom’s Spirit of Adventure

It’s been hard to find the right topic to start writing again. Since my mom, Martha Randall, passed away on March 28th, my words have been quiet—unlike my sewing machine, which finished the last few quilts Mom had been working on. I brought them to her funeral so her friends and family could see them and take one home.

In August, I finally packed a suitcase and followed in her adventurous footsteps. I went on a cruise around Japan—not with my husband, but with a new quilting friend, Mary. Mom would have approved. She was fearless when it came to travel, often setting out on trips solo or with other travel agents.

The cruise was unforgettable. I learned to make several origami projects, melted in Japan’s summer heat, and marveled at how clean every city was. The northern part of the country is known for its sake. One morning, I caught a perfect glimpse of Mount Fuji, and I could almost hear Mom saying, “Now that’s worth the trip!” At dinner, I shared stories and laughter with some lively travelers from Texas—just the kind of connection Mom would have made in a heartbeat. There were thirty-seven nationalities aboard, and I kept thinking how she would’ve chatted with every single one.

On the very last day, I found authentic Japanese indigo fabrics. Their deep blues and rich textures seemed to hold centuries of history. I bought several pieces, already imagining how they might find their way into a quilt that honors both Japan and my love of color, travel, and beauty.

This fall brought another full-circle moment: I was the featured artist at the Cheshire Quilters’ Guild Show in New Hampshire. I sold several quilts and donated all the proceeds to the guild and to RiverMead in Peterborough, where Mom spent her final eight months. It felt like the right way to give back to a community that cared for her with such kindness up to her last breath.

I’m starting a new project in January 2026, so stay tuned to learn how to sign up and explore how my creative mind works—and why I love making so many different kinds of quilts.

I am stitching my way back. Writing, creating, and remembering life’s fun moments—along with exercise—are now part of my daily rhythm. It’s taken time to find the right topic, but maybe this was it all along: love that doesn’t fade, stories that keep growing, and the quiet courage to keep doing things our way.

Mount Fuji