Between the cost of canvases, fibers, embellishments, finishing, and not to mention the time it takes to lovingly stitch a project, it becomes very difficult, VERY quickly to part with the canvases we complete. I have to have someone very special… very “needlepoint worthy” to give away my work.
Last June, James (my boyfriend) graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point. He earned his commission as a Second Lieutenant and joined the Engineer Branch of the U.S. Army. As soon as he finishes his training this spring, he will be posted to Ft. Bragg, North Carolina, as part of the 20th Engineer Brigade.
In August of 2013 he was very excited to get his class ring! (The tradition of wearing class rings originated at West Point and dates back to 1835). It’s a long road and a huge commitment to make it to Firstie (Senior) year there, and their rings serve not only as a reminder of not only the commitment they made to the Academy, but the duty they still have to the Army.
Of course I felt that I needed to do something special to commemorate the event!
Each graduating class at West Point designs their own class crest. They must each include an eagle, two sabers, the year of graduation and the American flag. The class of 2014’s can be seen below:
So, I needlepointed the design and had it framed. I gave it to James as a surprise gift after the banquet that weekend, and he was so touched. After all, there is nothing more special than a handmade gift!
