I started quilting about the same time I got my first Airedale puppy, the summer of 1986. I have branched out in both since I started.  My quilting life has turned into a business. I get more offers for quilting than I know what to do with. I do some teaching and work free lance part of  the year for a thread manufacturer and importer. This job involves some travel for working at professional trade shows. Of all the different aspects of sewing that I do, I am most happy sitting at my machine and applying beautiful freeform stitching to the surface of quilts and garments.

My life with Airedales has grown also. I have made many friends volunteering for ATRA and doing many tasks such as fundraising, picking up dogs, interviewing homes, etc. It has also landed me another part time job (more a hobby) working for a behaviorist / trainer and assisting with novice obedience classes for the public.

My 2 current Airedales are both ATRA rescues. Madison and Ben. Madison is 7.  I’ve has her since she was 2. Lynn O’Shaughnessy (of ATRA) flew to Madison, Wisconsin to get her and thus her name, Madison.

Ben came to me at 5 months old after being tossed in a shelter. He is now 4 and I am very proud of him. He has worked his way to advanced obedience and off  leash work. We are currently enjoying agility on the weekends this summer.

Ben and Madison live with My husband and I in Ortonville, MI. We live on 12 acres in a farm house house we built 12 years ago.  My husband received his  private pilot certificate 2 years ago and his instructor was Lynn O’.  Now I  can’t keep in on the ground.

Airedales and quilts blend for me with the Airedale raffle quilts.  I have quilted the last 3 and will be quilting and finishing “Annette’s House.” This will be very special for me as Annette is a close friend and I am honored to do this in her name.

Chris Zane is doing the wonderful Machine Quilting for Annette's House.