Gail's Grads  2008 Design Challenge Theme:  "Favorites" Beginning in 2007, Gail challenged members of her online group of former students, Gail's Grads, to create an original quilt of their "favorite".   The favorite could be anything that was personally memorable such as a favorite book, a favorite place, etc. There were no other rules as to techniques, sizes, fabrics, or colors.   The deadline for submissions was March 31, 2008.  The quilts were judged in April 2008 at Ann Silva's Bernina Sewing Center in Albuquerque, NM.  Judges were Ann Silva and Jane Housman.  The quilts were then displayed at Ann Silva's Bernina Sewing Center until mid-May 2008. I extend sincere thanks to all the entrants and to Jane and Ann for judging.  The prize for this year's challenge was a quilt designed and stitched by me (with a little help from Donna!).  Here, I share four of the entries with you. "The Spider and the Fly" by Patricia Drennan, Albuquerque, NM.  First Place Winner "Spider and Fly" detail.  Note the hand beaded eyes. Pat Drennan holds  "Anova I", the prize for this contest. " "Aurora Borealis" by Kathy Shaker, Bend, OR.  41" x 40".  Second Place winner. "Aurora Borealis" detail. "Sun, Sand, Sea and Sail" by Cathy Combs, Albuquerque, NM.  ~36" x 36". "Sun, Sand, Sea, and Sail" detail view. "Ichthys Imaginarius" by Michele Hymele, Albuquerque, NM.  68" x 41". "Ichthys Imaginarius" detail view.