Sunday---Precious Promises

Call to me when trouble comes; I will save you, and you will praise me.

Psalms 50:15, Good News Bible

Stitching Hearts

I started Thinking about Hearts here.  The little sampler sat for a few days as family matters were more pressing at the time.  But, yesterday I started some stitching.  Just a little here and there.  Not sure where this little piece is going, just a happy cloth to stitch and relax.  Do you have projects like that?  I have about four projects that I really should be working on, but just stitching for fun is refreshing.  Enjoy your stitching and check out the great stitches at Off the Wall Friday.  Have a wonderful weekend and as always Happy Quilting!

Reflections

I've been thinking today about the month past and the past 50 years.  You see, on January 12 my hubby's Mom passed away.  She was 93 years young.  Up until the past few months, my mother-in-law was a woman who had a zest for life, even in the twilight of her own life..  She was an outgoing person and made friends at her Independent/Assisted  Living facility easily.  In fact, many people said she was the first person they met when they moved into the facility.

But, she was a complicated woman--she had an unique personality.  As I reflect on her life and my relationship with her I realize that after all these years. I don't believe I really knew her.  She could be so kind, but so controlling, so generous but so manipulative, so forgiving but hold a grunge.

My early years in the family were difficult--I was not the wife she would have chosen for her son.  We had many ups and downs.  I was raised to respect people no matter what---so when she would express disapproval with me or manipulate an event.  I would take it in stride and work my way to an end that would satisfy her and not compromise my beliefs.

I remember the one time I stood up to her, she had been disappointed about events that had taken place that my hubby, his step-mother and myself  had nothing to do with, but she placed all the blame on us.  I told her where the blame should be placed and that I would not tolerate her comments any longer.  If she continued, I would remove my family from having contact with her.  I was shaking in my shoes as that ultimatum came flowing from my lips.  Hubby and I had been married for 25 years, at that point and I guess I had enough.  What was so interesting, she never said another word concerning her previous criticism.  What was also interesting our relationship changed and until her passing we became close.

She was a good woman, who loved her family and who I believe had some bad things happen to her when she was growing up--that we will never really know.  But I believe those things changed her and made the unique personality we knew.  She had a love in her heart for her family, but had difficulty expressing that love.  Her love had conditions, I believe those conditions were set up for her own protection.

At her memorial her oldest Grandson expressed that this was a time for forgiveness.  Many family members knew what he was talking about and many members have more to think about on that subject than myself.  I'm pleased to say that the last 25 years of knowing my mother-in-law were good and joyful.  Another thing I have thought about this past month, is that life is so precious and every moment can mold a person forever.  Kindness, Love and Caring is what it is all about and what I strive for daily.  I thank Virginia for making me more aware and for raising a wonderful son.

                                                                       

Sunday---Precious Promises

God is our shelter and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. 

Psalms 46:1, Good News Bible

The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.

Psalms 46:7, Good News Bible

Happy Valentine's Day

Raw edge applique, lace, sparkles, machine and hand stitching plus a jeweled heart or two.

Happy Quilting!

Thinking Hearts Today

For years, I have so enjoyed Jude Hill's blog Spirit Cloth.  It is one of my daily reads.  Recently, I have participated in her Feel Free offerings of techniques, and inspiration.  I'm still working on Sun, Moon and Stars--soon to be complete.  Of course, another idea popped into my head and this morning I gathered some bits and pieces to create a little nine-patch of hearts.  At the speed of my sewing it may be finished by this time next year.  Not sure exactly what I'm going to do with this little reverse applique sampler--I will let it speak to me.

I find Jude's approach to cloth fun, relaxing and free (no quilt police here).  Just a good time with cloth and thread.  Have a Happy Monday and Happy Quilting!

Sunday---Precious Promises

Happy are those who know they are spiritual poor; The kingdom of Heaven belongs to them!

Happy are those who mourn; God will comfort them!

Happy are those who are humble; they will receive what God has promised!

Happy are those whose greatest desire is to do what God requires; God will satisfy them fully!

Happy are those who are merciful to others; God will be merciful to them!

Happy are the pure in heart; they will see God!

Happy are those who work for peace; God will call them his children!

Happy are those who are persecuted because they do what God requires; the Kingdom of heaven belongs to them!

Happy are you when people insult you and persecute you and tell all kinds of evil lies against you because you are my followers.  Be happy and glad, for a great reward is kept for you in heaven.  This is how the prophets who lived before you were persecuted.

Matthew 5: 3-12, Good News Bible

Sunday---Precious Promises

But will the Son of Man find faith on earth when he comes?

Luke 18:8, Good News Bible

For Sale

A few years ago I participated in the Notable Woman Quilt Initiative.  I chose Clara Barton as my subject.  I wanted to reflect someone who still had a working influence in the world today.

After being on tour for a year, the little quilt has returned and is now for sale.   For more information about the Clara Barton--Red Cross quilt click here and visit my Shop.  As always,  check out the great quilts at Off the Wall  and Happy Quilting.