A Chapter Ends

I've said goodbye to my part time job in town. I started there almost four years ago. It was a new experience for me (no plastic bottles! no horses!). And though this is a small town, everyone there was a stranger to me, and I to them. What a difference a few years can make.

Those strangers became dear friends. Many light moments and laughs were shared. Many difficult times were discussed and tears were shed (okay, most of the tears were mine - look at me funny and I cry - those other two are SO strong).

Those strangers became an inspiration. I learned so much more than my job. They taught me about faith, perseverance, selflessness, and "rolling with the punches". About caring, and kindness, and acceptance.

I know this isn't goodbye forever. They will always be my friends. But I will really miss our twice weekly contact. The catch-up talks at the start of the day. The odd story in the middle of the day. The talk of future plans at the end of the day.

Though I couldn't have known it when I took the job, I am so thankful now that I did, and for the friends that came of it.

Friend. Isn't that warm, pleasant, rich, comforting word? One of my favorites.

Best Friends

MCQ Block Turning

I received my quilt blocks from the block exchange I took part in with fellow Marine Comfort Quilters. I can't describe the emotions I felt as I looked through the blocks. They came from all over the country. There were pieced blocks, appliqued blocks, a hand painted block, blocks with embellishments. They were from every relative imaginable of those who have served and are now serving... wives, parents, grandparents, daughters, nieces, cousins, and at least one block from a veteran. Some were simply signed. Others included sentiments.

And there were blocks from Gold Star Families.

At quilt shows they sometimes have a bed turning. They will pile up quilts on a bed and then, one at a time will hold them up and tell about the quilt or about the making of it. So I did a block turning....



As we prepare to welcome Justin home we can't help but think of all those who will not be coming home, including the two men from his Battalion, and of their families. It breaks your heart.

There is no treasure like a friend

This was so very long ago. We haven't been in touch in ages. It's the only picture I have of my dear friend, but oh, the memories!

Friendship Blocks

I made, signed and mailed 53 blocks for a Friendship Quilt. The pattern I chose for my block is called Homeward Bound. In a few weeks I'll receive back one of my blocks along with 52 other blocks - one from each of the other women participating in this block exchange. They will all be patriotic fabrics as the women are voluteer sewers for Marine Comfort Quilts. Can't wait to see what I get back and then have the fun of arranging the blocks for the quilt.