Queen of Everything, 64 x 64 inches, by O.V. Brantley, 2008.

January always starts with a bang for me. I am a New Year’s baby so it is fun to pretend everyone in the entire world is celebrating my birthday!

This year, the bang was bigger than usual. Since it was my 60th, disobedient daughter India threw me a surprise party (although she knows I hate surprises). She managed to get all my closest friends to my house, and I had no clue! You can check out the pictures on my Facebook Page. It truly was a joyful day.

The warm glow of gratitude has not faded. All this month,  I have continued to feel like I am Queen of Everything. In 2008, a similar feeling of wellness and gratitude inspired the quilt shown above. I usually keep her locked away, but it seemed like a good time to bring her out.

I hope the new year has been joyful for you so far. Claim your kingdom.

Queen of Everything (detail), 64 x 64 inches, 2008