Thursday, April 22, 2010

CHOICES

Have you ever noticed how many choices we have the opportunity to make each and every day? As I've sat here in a hospital with Mom for the last month, it's given me alot of time to observe, think, reflect and discover.

Before this all happened and I had to work, well, I didn't even think about what to wear...a uniform. Or whether to go to work, HAD TO in order to get paid! So those were pretty easy, 'no brainers' if you will.

But here, every day we're faced with new challenges, new choices. And sometimes, it's the "choosing" that seems to be the hardest part. Once decided on a course of action, well, we move forward, usually with conviction.

I guess we all want to make the right choices (all the time), but life isn't that way. And it's OK. We choose, we learn, and maybe we choose differently next time; maybe not. I think, no, believe, that it's the whole range of emotions, ability to feel and express them, and commitment to move forward that keeps most of us going. Life isn't always easy, yes, there are challenges, but it's how we choose to live with them that define us.

God, please help me to make the right choices today!
Karen

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Break out the Sewing Machine!

Oh how I'm itching to break out the sewing machine! As you all know, things have been tough for my mother in law! I recently made her the "Sun Kissed Roses' quilt from the book to use as her "therapy" quilt. And you know what I discovered? That quilt can be made in a day! So can "Midnight Fairy Lights" and "Sew Dear"!

As I sit here and work on a presentation for quilt shop owners, I've realized that the book has much to offer. Quilts that can be made in a day! Faux piping and flange techniques! How to split the binding at the miter! Cool border treatments! How to make freehand feathers!

And what I love the most, well, the response Mom has gotten from having those quilts with her in the hospital. Seems everyone just loves quilts, and many wish they had them! You can see in her expression how proud she is to have them, they set her apart! Everyone remarks how much she must be loved! And you can watch her stroke them and feel the comfort they bring her! So can you blame me for wanting to make a few more?

Mom, I love you! And oh how I want you to get better! I'll make you as many quilts as you can handle, each one a little different, yet each one made with love!

Saturday, April 3, 2010

Montana: One Week

Hi All!

Been here in Montana for one week now, and with Mom still in the hospital, have had plenty of time to sit, hand sew, watch, and reflect.

I gave Mom 2 quilts at the hospital, one "just cuz" and one to be her "therapy" (chemo) quilt. Both quilts just easy, lap size projects, yet both truly appreciated by all who see them! Doctors, nurses, therapists, dieticians, friends, and family. It amazes me how quilts speak to all of us!

In a world wrecked by cancer, wearied by the drugs to treat it, Mom has found a small measure of joy, comfort and warmth by having those quilts grace her hospital bed. And I, like every little girl who once wished she had a magic wand, but found out she didn't, am so Thankful I was able to give her this one small gift!

Never forget that quilts are so much more than the scraps they're made of...they're part of the fabric of our lives, interwoven with others, and measured in value by the joy we give to those who love them!

God Bless! Prayers appreciated in this tough time!!!!
Karen