2011-International Year of Forests

As the year comes to a close, did you know that 2011 was the International Year of Forests?

According to Wikipedia, the United Nations made this declaration to raise awareness and strengthen sustainable forest management, conservation and sustainable development of all types of forests for the benefit of current and future generations.

Amazon Rainforest

Here in the US, a campaign was organized by the National Association of State Foresters in partnership with the US Forest Service to elevate awareness and understanding of the value of America’s forests and showcase the connections between healthy forests, people, ecosystems and economies.   Read more about their activities at “Celebrate Forests.  Celebrate Life”.

I found some interesting, and free, paper-piecing patterns for trees at the Forest Quilting website including a darling pine tree pattern that she calls "Pine with Skirt" (there are also other pine tree patterns).  Check it out at:   http://www.forestquilting.com/masterlistfree.html#free_paper-piecing_index

It reminded me that I have an old UFO called Harmony Village that needs a few more blocks.  Maybe I’ll fit in making this pine tree during 2012!