Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Some Changes in the Air....

Hi, all!


Tuesdays are going to change around the blog a little bit - - 




Lilli, who is entirely too smart for her own good, will be starting a 5-day a week preschool on August 1st, so my whole week will be toddlerless, except for the days that I go eat lunch with her or pick her up early.  I'll miss her, but it will be so good for her to be around other kids and learning even more things!  She can already count in both english and spanish, told me the other day that when she got bigger and bigger, she wanted to be a teacher who taught about scientific experiments (where did she get that one??? who knows!) and keeps up a running commentary about everything she can think of non-stop until she passes out in sleep!  We've been cooking together, even tried a little sewing on "Nana's Big Machine" (the Juki!) and had a lot of fun this summer.  We've got two more weeks to fill up with lots more fun, so who know's what else we'll get done!  


So I think I'll use Tuesdays for quilt ministry updates - since so many of the ladies in our group are finishing quilts on their own now, with minimal help from me, it seems that they deserve their own day to shine!  Here are a few of the quilts they have finished recently...


Diane Wingo, who is a local quilt blogger who has been joining us for sewing made this beautiful quilt with her own scraps of Kate Spain's Central Park (oh how I love this line!)...



This quilt has already found a home with a woman diagnosed with breast cancer.  We hope it brings her lots of joy with its cheerful colors, and peace, knowing that people she doesn't even know are praying for her!


Diane also made this blue beauty, from fabric donated to us by Sarah Reames, who I met through my involvement with the Bee Splendid group.  (Sarah sent an enormous box of fabric I could barely lift, so you'll be seeing lots of things made with fabric she sent!!)


The front of the quilt...

... and the back.

Through careful planning, Diane worked it out so we've still got enough of these beautiful blues to make another quilt from it.  This quilt doesn't have a home yet, but I'm sure there's a plan for it!!  You'll see it again when it is gifted....


Pam, one of my church sewing sisters, made this cheerful quilt from fabric donated by Diane, who blogs over at Life Scraps.


The front of the quilt...


...and the back.

This quilt has the most adorable goldfish on it, and lots of bubbly dot fabrics - I've named it Goldfish Bowl!  It was delivered yesterday to an 11-year old girl who was in a serious car accident - possible brain damage and two broken legs.  It was wonderful to have a quilt on hand that we could get in her hands right away - a goal we've been working on for a while now!  

And now I have a very special quilt to share with you.

My sewing sisters made this beautiful quilt for me.


You can see just a few of them in this picture - lots more worked on the quilt, but weren't able to be there when
they gave it to me.  (That's me in the bright pink shirt right next to the quilt...)

You see, about a month ago, I was diagnosed with breast cancer.  I wasn't going to mention it on my blog,
because I always want this to be an up-beat,
positive place, plus it was going to be my 
"cancer-free" zone - where I didn't have to have cancer.

Miss Lilli couldn't miss being in this picture!!

But then the ladies gave me this beautiful quilt,
and I couldn't possibly go without sharing it with all of you.
They put so much work and thought into it---
Each lady chose a block pattern and made their own block. 


One even chose a pattern called "Sarah's Choice"!
There's some machine embroidery on it, too -
One block says "Hope"
Another has the name of our ministry - 
"Piece*Love*Quilts"
(my hubby came up with that - isn't it smart?)
Diane Wingo, who blogs at DEW Quiltingquilted it.


See the back?  There are blocks signed by 
the ladies in the sewing group,
by the ladies in my bunco group,
by staff members at the church,
and by people that we've made quilts for through the 
quilt ministry.



They did this all in a week!

And I love it.....

So - this won't be turning into a cancer blog - 
I'd rather it stays a quilting blog.  But at least you'll 
understand if I don't get as much done in a week
as I usually do!  I'll be doing chemo for about 18 weeks, 
then surgery and radiation.  So hopefully things will
stay pretty normal for a long time.  I had my 
first chemo treatment Monday, and so far, so good! 
Positive attitude and all that, you know?

It's strange to be on the receiving end of our quilt ministry, but I can definitely testify how much it means now!  It feels good to know that we are able to do something that can mean so much to others.  And I'm going to meet with the clinical psychologist at my oncologist's office to ask her if she will let me know if there are people she treats who really need a quilt from us - people with no family support, or who are going through a really bad time.  I figure there must be a reason I'm going through this - maybe that's it!  

When I was there for my first treatment yesterday, one of the gentlemen we made a quilt for came in and immediately said, "There's my quilt ladies!"  (One of my quilting friends went with me to keep me company...)  I didn't know he went there, too, and it was nice to see him and know that's how he thought about us!  Ann of Renegade Quilter donated the quilt that went to this gentleman.  He loves it, and says he sleeps under it every night!

So - enough about that!  From now on, Tuesdays will be ministry quilt updates (although I'm sure you'll see many others on other days...) and while we won't be seeing Lilli quite as often, I'll make sure she shows up sometimes!

Hugs!

Sarah

PS - Be sure to check out Qubee Quilts on Wednesday (7/20/11) - Charlie's going to be featuring my blog!!  I'm so honored and excited!!

  


38 comments:

  1. I cannot think of someone who deserves more prayers than you. I shall do my share of that, and then some...

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  2. Lilli is darling and what adventures lie ahead! I know you want this to be cancer-free zone and after this, I will honor that, but just know that I have added you to my daily prayers. I'm glad you told us because I figure that more people will pray and that's always a good thing! And I love that the wonderful women in your life have blessed you with such a magnificent quilt! You are always blessing everyone else...time to be on the receiving end for a bit!

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  3. You are in my daily prayers Sarah. Sending hugs:)

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  4. Your post is such a rollercoaster of news - wow, your head must be spinning to say the least. You are in my prayers as well - I have several survivor friends and one universal thing they've all said is that it does make such a difference to have support and a great attitude.

    Your daughter is a cutie - and I am in favor of teaching others how to do scientific experiments, having some experience with that myself. :)

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  5. Oh, Sarah, you will be in my prayers. I just know that you will be just fine and will be able to comfort and give hope to all those ladies you will meet in the future who need those quilts.

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  6. Oh, Sarah, such wonderful quilts from such a wonderful group of people. I love your upbeat, positive attitude, but do not be afraid to share with us - you have many quilting sisters who have been in the same boat.

    How Lillie has grown! How I relate to the running commentary - my grandson is the same way.

    Will definitly take a hop to Charlie's tomorrow to give a WHOOP at ya'.

    Many hugs, prayers, and thoughts.

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  7. Sarah you will be in my prayers and you keep up that positive attitude. You will get through it--I know it. My dad has lymphatic cancer,went into remission and now it is back again,but the doctor told him he would live a long time. My dad is very positive:):)

    Love you friend!!

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  8. That quilt turn out awesome. They did a great job in such a short time! Always remember when you wrap it around you, your girls are wrapping their arms around you.

    always in my prayers,

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  9. ALL of the quilts are AWESOME ! Yours is my favorite ! How nice of your group ! You are loved by many , Sarah ; Keep up the positive thoughts and feel God's arms and all that made the quilt wrapped around you ! God Bless !

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  10. She is quite a cutie! How blessed! All of the quilts are so beautiful...I hadn't seen your little blog before, but WOW! I am so loving it!

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  11. Sarah,
    I am keeping good thoughts for your quick recovery. You are an awesome inspiration to so many people! I think the quilt that your friends made for you is an awesome hug!
    Best,
    Laura

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  12. Love the quilts...and your Lilli is adorable as always. I will be keeping you in my prayers. {{HUGS}}

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  13. Sarah, I'll be thinking & praying for your speedy recovery. Your dedication on all these ministry quilts is amazing. Since I've met you online with your H2H charity, you have made so many quilts.
    Please keep us posted on how you are feeling. I know you don't want to have it turn into a cancer blog but we feel that we know you and we do care!

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  14. So sorry about your news - I hate cancer!! My Mom had breast cancer 3 1/2 years ago. I think we have all been touched in different ways. Thoughts and prayers to you. Little Lilli is just a doll - she will help you get through this rough time!

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  15. Beautiful quilts, as always, I love the quilt that was made for you and the Central Park one especially. Big hugs from New Jersey and I hope you have a speedy recovery! You're right - positivity is key! We'll always be here!

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  16. A positive attitude is SO KEY! Sending you a virtual {{hug}}. What lovely friends you have to have made you such a beautiful quilt that has such obvious care and love quilted into it.

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  17. Oh Sarah, my heart goes out to you. I'm praying that your spirits and body stay strong. It looks like you have a great support network - don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it!

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  18. I'm the proud sister of a survivor, Sarah! You are in my prayers -- and just focus on Romans 8:28 (all things work together for good) AND 29 -- those he forknew he predestined to be conformed to the image of Christ!! You are already like Him in your generosity of love and spirit. I know He is at work in you, and your testimony of His grace will also reach and touch people, just like your quilts do!! You amaze me and bless me!!! If there are more specific ways I can pray, or if you need feet for your prayers, let me know!!
    Blessings,
    Mary Lou

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  19. Ay, caramba! I was enjoying the pretty quilt pictures and going to remark how I like your hair and then, wow, your news. Hugs, hugs, and more hugs, my friend. May all the love and support you've shared in your quilt ministry be there for you during your cancer treatment and recovery. You give so much, and you're thinking of giving even in the midst of your own trials, which is honorable, but it's okay to just let yourself be ministered to. I will be thinking and praying for you.

    Is it just me or does Lilli get cuter all the time? I bet she's going to love preschool, but she'll still want her adventures with Nana too!

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  20. You've blessed soooo many people with your work - it's great that there's a bunch to support you too!! That's a beautiful quilt, made with love & I'm sure you'll treasure it always, as you treasure their friendships.

    You're certainly in our thoughts & prayers. Miss Lilli will certainly miss her time with you (and you'll miss her) but I'm sure you'll find other worthwhile things to fill your time.

    Best wishes, hugs & smiles!

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  21. Thanks for sharing this story. No one deserves this lovely quilt more than you. Prayers that you will sail through this in flying colors. Even before my treatments, I lived by this simple creed by Charles Swindoll:

    "We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude... I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it."

    Good luck and know that you have a lot of friends that are praying for you.

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  22. I am so sorry you are facing this new challenge, Sarah. However, I am thrilled that you received a quilt yourself after having given so much to this quilt ministry and can really understand how much these prayer quilt ministries mean. We hear similar wonderful anecdotes from recipients frequently and recognize that we are often as blessed as they are. You'll be in my prayers as well.

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  23. Please remember you are not traveling this journey alone. You have many quilt sisters who care about you. Since meeting you through H2H I have been inspired by you. You are my hero! I will be praying for you. Sending you a great big hug. Karen

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  24. Sarah I am always amazed at the amount of love and hope you are able to spread with your quilt ministry. You not only touch the people who receive the quilts, but all of us who read your blog and will never meet you face to face. I'm happy that your quilting sisters were able to present you with this beautiful quilt full of love and prayers for you. My prayers and love are added to theirs.

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  25. Amazing quilts! You guys are busy, busy! I just love seeing Lili-updates. I don't have any little ones (just friends who do) so I always enjoy watching them grow and change. 18 weeks will go by quickly. Just hurry and get better so you have more time to play! Don't let life get in the way.

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  26. Sarah - My neighbor faced breast cancer last year, and even though it's a tough road you'll face, you can beat this! Keep in mind that all of your quilting sisters will be praying for you daily. Even though I don't live close, please let me know if I can help with your ministry in any way. I have another box of fabric coming soon.

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  27. I "sew" believe you reap what you sow and for you, Miss Sarah, you will now see what a wonderful and fruitful garden you have planted. It's amazing how many lives you touch without really feeling the full impact until you are on the receiving instead of the giving end of things. I wish I were closer to give you a hug and to gush over your quilt. You so deserve it. My best for a smooth course of radiation and PLEASE keep us up to date, if you feel comfortable doing so, so we won't worry about you. (The collective we, cause it's not just me, ya know). Having your quilting and your friends will be a welcome distraction. Say yes to the offers of help, it make everyone feel better. Much love and good thoughts and prayers coming your way.

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  28. You are such a blessing to those around you and I just know that you will have such a wide expanse of support. I am honored that you have shared with us your struggles, and will continue to keep you in my prayers. Hold tight to God and there is nothing better than you can do, sweet sister!

    Those quilts are all so amazing! You have a very talented group of people helping you with the quilting ministry! I look forward to your Tuesday updates of how the groups efforts are going - what a blessing it would be to receive one of your gorgeous quilts!

    Hugs xx

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  29. "Piece*Love*Quilts" What goes around, comes around. With all the "Piece*Love*Quilts" that you have done, you deserve one for the difficult time in your life. You could always start a separate blog about the cancer. A place for you to vent and share. My mother, her sister (twice) and her other sister's daughter have all had breast cancer in the last few years. So far, my luck has held. I'll be praying for you and your family. Chemo will be a whole new experience for you and your family. Remember, we, your blog family, also cares.

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  30. I will keep you in my prayers. What a sweet gift. You help so many people that the love had to come back around to you. Hang in there!!

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  31. Beautiful gift! So sorry to hear about your cancer. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

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  32. YOUR quilt is beautiful, the quilt ladies did a wonderful job. I was and am very honored to be a small part of it. May it bring you comfort on the bad days and smiles on the good days. You will be in my prayers daily. God will be with you on this journey.

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  33. This quilt will remind you of just what a special person you are.Many blessings to you. I know too many people with this horrible disease and I pray you make a speedy recovery and kick cancer. XOXO

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  34. As usual, your quilts are beautiful.

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  35. So sorry to hear about your diagnosis. You will overcome this. The quilt that was made for you is beautiful and full of love and prayers, so use it to help you with all that is to come. We have a 17 year old niece who was diagnosed with leukemia a couple of months ago and my husband and I made a quilt for her. She says that it helps to wrap up in the love and prayers when she has a bad day.
    I love your blog so much. You have given me so many ideas and even sent me one of your patterns. Sending you lots of prayers and love. Bonnie in Iowa

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  36. Sarah you are in my thoughts. I appreciate your desire to keep your blog a place a beauty and health. You have taught me so much and you continue to teach in grace. Much love to you.

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  37. Sarah, you are such a positive and amazing person. I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. Take care of yourself and get some rest and recovery. You have some awesome sewing sisters and they made such a beautiful quilt. Lilli is just a darling :)

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  38. How can I get the pattern for some changes in the air quilt

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Comments make me smile!! If you want a PDF of a pattern, PLEASE leave your email address in your comment, or email me directly at salliesue57 (at) gmail (dot) com!