I know my posts have been leaning toward my trips to VA, family time, crochet and knitting, and Little Quilts but I do still piece and quilt lap/sofa size quilts.
The last few years have been very hard on me from a health standpoint and I’m still on oral chemo for the breast cancer – fingers crossed it won’t come back – and I’m dealing with a number of health issues due to the treatment of 3 different cancers.
I’m trying to accept that I will NEVER get back to the same level of health I had before this all started, that I need more rest, more time to run to appointments, and with Keith retired, more family time – which is not a bad thing at all unlike the others but it does mean less time in the sewing room.
In addition to the bin full of hats I shared in the last post … donations are being made.
- I shipped off 6 group HeartStrings yesterday that I quilted and finished they will be donated in Maine.
- I loaded one of mine on the longarm today that will be donated through the local guild to Sleep in Heavenly Peace along with 7 other quilts to be donated by them to other organizations.
- Up next for quilting – the RWB Sharon HeartStrings quilt which will be taken to Maine in September with 2 more RWB quilts I made to be donated in Bev’s memory.
- Plus, next week I’ll be donating 2 large bags filled with Little Quilts and critters along with a stack of crochet blankets to Safe Path
That’s 17 quilts plus the Little Quilts, the chemo hats, and the crochet blankets all to be donated by the end of September.
I am Still a Quilter but I can’t just sit and do nothing when I need rest or quiet time so there are more knit and crochet projects being done for donation.
So if you are still reading this post, I guess I’m explaining why this Quilting Blog that was started in 2005 is no longer focused solely on quilting but quilting is still my passion and I will never stop as long as I’m able.
I’m also trying to convince myself that I am still useful and productive and that I still make a difference through my donation work and through sharing my projects here and on the website that inspire others to make and donate things to those in need.
Thank you for understanding and supporting me through all this.
I applaud you for all you do
I am amazed at all you accomplish! No need to explain how much or how little you do. Also, I like reading about your life. And I also like to quilt, knit hats and crochet afghans, so you’re actually right up my alley. Thanks for posting. I hope you’re health stays manageable throughout many years.
No need to apologize for something you have no control over – Life. I’m amazed at what you are able to accomplish. I wish you well and many more joyful years! Blessings!!!
You are wonderful and an inspiration to us all. Thank you so much for all that you create and give away! It truly is “better to give than to receive “ .God bless and strengthen you and give you that measure of strength that would best glorify Him!
Mary, you continue to inspire and motivate me in all things creative. Videos of the visitors outside, picture of those grandkids growing up, the joy your sons bring, all these contribute to a very interesting story of your life. I’m invested in this blog, whatever the topic you’re sharing, so please don’t change a thing. Just take good care of yourself, and keep those hands busy while you do. I’m here for it all.
Mary, like you, I’m a knitter and crocheter as well as a quilter. I make many items for donation, and love to see what you’re doing. I’ve also had three cancer surgeries, chemo and radiation, so I know the effects. You are indeed useful and productive and inspiring!
Wow, Mary! I would never have thought to question your content. Your blog, your choice!
Your donation record is just amazing, and I hope to someday increase my donation work. I only knit socks at this point, and I have a list of gifts to make for those, but I do donate quilts, and my guild makes placemats and wheelchair quilts for a local hospice. Your work is so valuable, not only to the groups you donate to, but also as inspiration to your readers. I appreciate your taking the time to share the things you make with us.
Dear Mary You have a love of creativity and a generous soul. Please post what pleases you and lifts your spirit. No matter what happens with your health and your ability to create items, your wonderful creations have delighted many people and have filled their lives with love. I often imagine the reactions of the recipients of your little quilts with stuffies, thinking how you’ve lifted the recipient that day and for their days moving forward. Love and admiration to you.
I love your blog, you are truly inspirational with your love of family and community plus, at the same time dealing with your health issues. From the other side of the world, East Coast of New Zealand, I’d just like to thank you for sharing your passions and your everyday family events with us. I understand your concern that lead to your post but we all evolve, life does that to us. Share what and when you like, I will keep enjoying your open, honest stories and accomplishments. Judy, Gisborne, NZ
I am astounded at how much you accomplish! After all the health issues you have been through, your energy doesn’t seem to have waned. Your creations for charity are lovely. You are amazing!
Being able to do what you want and enjoy life at a different pace has more value. I am amazed at all that you accomplish!
You are truly an inspiration to all of us. Thanks for expanding on your current environment. It is wonderful that you have so many talents that when one is not possible, the next can give your comfort. Hang in there.
We all wish we could be as productive, healthy or not!! Thank you for sharing your life as well as your quilts. We love following your journey, seeing the twists and turns the universe tosses your way and the grace with which you handle it. I still come to your list of quilt patterns for charity inspiration, and I am using your “little quilt” design ideas for NICU quilts I have been asked to make.
I don’t know why you felt you needed to apologize — I hope the impetus was internal and not because anyone criticized you!
Thank you for sharing — for sharing ALL of it!