Today....

Today I was able to see a project - a BIG project - come full circle. From inspiration to creation, from purpose and process to completion. And for a prolific starter like me this is no small milestone. The quilt that I have been working on for my late friend's wee daughter is done. I took it to the M.O.M.s group that Susan and I both attended, both served on leadership team, both loved, laughed and cried and in general did life together. With the help of these dear ladies the binding was joined to the back of the quilt and it was finally, at long last (insert heavy sigh of relief here) DONE.

I am ever mindful of the gift I've been given: these eyes that see in fabric and paint, these hands that are still willing to learn new skills, this brain that is capable of sorting out the how of this project. I spent long hours thinking about how to approach this one, the weight of it ever on my shoulders and in my heart. I simply didn't want to make a mess of this. And I thought of Susan every step of the way. Of her humour and her heart. Of her willingness to lend a hand. Of the pain - very real and often severe pain - that she bore without a single word never mind a complaint. Of her love for Carley, the miracle she never thought she'd have because of her illness. All this I thought of and never once touched this project without uttering a simple prayer God, you know who this is for and what it means. Guide me and guard it.

A huge thank you to everyone who helped take apart Susan's clothing and who sewed along with me today, who cheered me on every step of the way. Thank you for having faith in me even when I doubted I couldn't bring this home. And most of all thank you to Carley and Spencer who trusted me with Susan's most favorite outfits (those Ikeda overalls!!). I hope it was worth the wait.

Comments

[treena banda]

I have a huge lump in my throat and tears in my eyes. Michelle, you are amazing. Susan would love it and Carley will treasure it. It is absolutely beautiful.

[Simone]

So beautiful Michelle! I watched the last few minutes of "How to make and American Quilt" and thought how wonderful it is to put someone's story and history into a quilt. It's very emotional and special!
Be blessed Michelle in all you do.

[Zephie]

Oh, wow Sol. That's absolutely gorgeous - especially because of the story behind it. I can see how that would've taken a lot of time just figuring out how to do it - but you did it, and you did it so well. I'm sure that everyone'll agree the quilt was certainly worth waiting for. Not to mention, it's a wonderful way to remember a lost loved one, by _creating_ something new, complete the circle as it were. Congrats on finishing it!

[Fabricated Goddess]

@ Treen: ah, you and me both sister! I was surprised yesterday as we gathered around to pray for Carley just how emotional this was for me. I'm glad you think Susan would like it too - I kept asking myself that the entire time. You were missed yesterday, too, dear girl.

@ Simone: You know, I totally love that idea too, the whole weaving of a story and the connectedness. I tend to romanticize these things, but yesterday as we were sewing the binding on, someone else said the same sort of thing. I hope Carley can FEEL that.

@ Zephie: Everything's better with a story, isn't it? I do love what you said, though and I think it sums up for me the value of this project (aside from creating a keepsake for Carley) was knowing that creating something new was bringing something full circle. Thanks for always, always stopping by and dropping wonderful words in my comment box, girlie.

[Kristina]

um,
amazing quilt. I am so proud of you. I haven't quilted in a few years ... not since the one I entered into the Wyoming fair. Not only did it NOT get unfolded (first bad sign) but they also had the audacity to place an ugly wreath (not made by me) on TOP of it. I got the hint.

and those "other" crafty moms well, meesh, they ain't blogging because they don't have time.

[Fabricated Goddess]

Thanks Kristinalala. And I know you are right - those other crafting mama's don't have time to blog. But you know, I was raised by *Monica*....need I explain my sensitivity to a 'neat' house? And yet I'm a total disaster in this area (showing signs of improvement but still, no where near what the big M would consider acceptable).

Wyoming fair...pffft. What do they know anyway. I'm sure your quilt is not only lovely but also artistically done.

[suesue]

this quilt is not only beautiful but i'm sure will be treasured forever. i thought my sisters and i would try to do something like this for my late sister's daughter also and you are an inspiration.

[Fabricated Goddess]

Thank you suesue. It really is worth the effort. I kept thinking about how my friend's daughter would never keep her mama's clothing - carting around a box of clothes that you won't ever wear is impractical - but a quilt is a keepsake that will always be there.

[Carla]

What a beautiful thing to do. That is true friendship and kindness. Good for you!

[Fabricated Goddess]

Thank you Carla.

[michellew]

This is the kind of gift that leaves you speechless with tears flowing. What an incredible gift that is an inspiration to me. And inspiration to sew with love and prayers in mind for those I create for. Thanks for posting this.

[Fabricated Goddess]

Thanks Michelle. It really was an emotional thing for me - so much more than I anticipated. I could barely thank the ladies who helped me along the way this day...I was overwhelmed.

[kimt]

incredible! What an amazing thing you did for your friend. I am inspired.

[Jodi Renshaw]

Wow, I am so "proud" of you all ... what an amazing gift.

Thank you for sharing this. It has inspired me :)

Love,
Jodi