A Day To Celebrate

My niece and nephew - Matthew & Suzie Guerrant - photo credit Ellen Guerrant

I remember January 20, 1993, I received a call that a heart for Matthew had been found. I sat by the telephone waiting for the call that the surgery had been successful. I did get that call and my sister said, "the heart started beating on its own". I was so happy and cried and cried - we had received a miracle. I love my nephew and to me he's a hero. He's endured more than most kids at his age, he's never asked why - simply tackled each challenge head on and with strength and courage. I love you Matthew. Matthew and Suzie are so in love - you can see it in their eyes and in their actions. Many could learn from their example.

I'm so looking forward my visit to North Carolina in April. I just can't wait to see everyone!!

Thank you Matthew for leading by example and allowing me to be your Aunt!!

Three Cheers for Union Workers

Who would have believed a twenty ton airplane would not only land on the Hudson River, but all aboard would come out alive. Three cheers for pilot Sulley!! His quick thinking and experty pilot savy saved the lives of one hundred fify five passengers. Union workers played an important role in this effort. Airline Pilot's Association, US Airline Pilot's Association, Association of Flight Attendants - CWA, National Air Traffic Controllers Association, Seafarers Internation Union, Patrolman's Benevolent Association, and Uniformed Firefighters Association and Uniformed Fire Officers Association (IAFF locals). Three cheers for Solidarity!!

Best Friends

Grace and Aiden have been best friends since nearly birth. They hold hands, love to play together and are attached at the hip. I'm certain they are solving the problems of the world as they sit on top of the pile of dirt. Best Friends Forever!!!

Ride Em Cowgirl

Growing up as a small child in Illinois was wonderful. We had two ponies named Honeybun and Janey. I hitched Honeybun up to the pony cart and did a wide range of exciting things. I used to go down the road and visit with Yaganis everytime I got in trouble. I sold potholders and went to visit all the neighbors. I wasn't allowed on the highway - but did sneak along the side to get to the Kochers. They had five boys and Don was a really great draw. So seeing Grace enjoying a ponyride is really exciting for me. You go GIRL!!!

Kari says Gracie told her to get away so she could be a cowgirl on her own. Miss Independent - no doubt. I miss you all!!

A Sample of the Quilt

This is a sample of all 121 blocks in the Civil War Diary Quilt. I doubt I'll get all of them made - but there is a good chance at least half will be made. These blocks and their stories are remarkable. I just can't imagine living during that time.

Civil War Fabrics

These are samples of Civil War Era fabrics. After 9-11 I travelled to Charlotte, NC to visit with my sister Ellen. We went to Mary Jo's (you must go if you have not) and bought Civil War Fabric. She was checking her stash and sent me this picture. How cool is that???? They should load in a picture if I've done things right!!

Civil War Diary Quilt Project

Nine special people have embarked on a quilt making journey. We chose Rosemary Youngs book, "The Civil War Diary Quilt" as our guide. We've each chosen two or three blocks to exchange with each other. We will have our first big exchange on March 18th!! I can't wait.

Kari Gets To Meet Michelle Obama

Kari headed over to the College where Grace attends preschool to see if she could get in to see Michelle Obama. Low and behold she was not only able to get herself in, she was able to get upfront and personal. No matter which side of the voting machine pleased you - it's fun to meet someone like that. I guess for Kari - it was "yes we can" and yes I did!! You Go Girl!!!