Quilt #42 Christy Heywood donated by Toni Martin, Joan Schneiter and Jane Myrberg

Joan Myrberg Schneiter, Christy Chinn Heywood and Toni Chinn Martin

Quilt #42 was delivered to Christy Heywood on July 16th by Joan Schneiter and Toni Martin. The women in these two families grew up across the street from each other and their lives have intertwined in so many important ways as they grew in the gospel together. The Chinns and Myrbergs have shared a life of influential friendship and have truly "changed each other for good."

Last year Christy lost the love of her life. She is an amazing woman who has much to share as she has walked through this trial. David was just 62 when he passed away from heart complications.

Toni shared with me that Christy truly appreciates this beautiful quilt and was quite emotional at being given such an heartfelt gift.

Toni wrote this tribute to sister and brother-in-law:

David Heywood

This quilt was presented to Christy Heywood in honor of her amazing husband David Heywood who suddenly left us in October of 2016. I have tried for several days to write something worthy of this amazing man. I have failed. However, his children and wife succeeded, and so I share with you some of their words used to pay tribute to him.

“There comes a point in every man’s life when the flame of his earthy existence expires. For some, that flame slowly wanes over time. For others, it b lazes brilliantly as they traverse life’s path, but suddenly ceases to burn. Such is the story of David, “Doc” Keith Heywood, Sr.

His heart, which beat not-so-regularly at around 22 and three-quarter time, decided that a grand pause would provide nice juxtaposition to the otherwise boisterous symphony it had hitherto written, thereby failing a willing body and an even more willing mind.

Dave and Christy

Family, friends, and even strangers knew that music was his passion, and that it filled every crag and corner of his life and ours. But perhaps at an even more fundamental level, his kindness, humor, love of family, and above all, his faith in our Father Above were the hallmarks that defined his life. Rarely do we come across someone so open and genuine.”

He was a great teacher because everyone he came in contact with knew they were, first, loved by him and secondly, respected without judgement.

Following are words of praise written by students, friends, and family

“Thank you for not making me feel like I was less than because I made mistakes.”

“I remember a time that Dave spoke about feeling like a rich man. I don’t recall the occasion that he humbly told the group that he had his wife, family, the gospel, a good job, and a fine roof over his head and that made him blessed with riches.”

“He made me laugh (and cry) with his wit and his writings and his passion for his music and his family!”

“His laughter was hearty and contagious. His words were sometimes lengthy, but well thought out and genuine. His love was unconditional and freely given.”

Heywood Family

“I remember when I was in high school; our group of friends would follow Tyler (Dave’s son) to Mr. Heywood’s house for lunch. Sometimes we wouldn’t bring lunch from home and Tyler would let us make whatever was in the fridge. Mr. Heywood would come home too and see his house full of teens eating is food, watching his TV, and sitting on his couches. I would get kind of nervous because my parents would have kicked everyone to the curb, but Mr. Heywood was different. He would sit with us and ask us about our day. He was like the uncle everyone wished they had, and the father that few were lucky to have. Mr. Heywood was an inspiration, a mentor, and above all a great friend.”

Lastly, Dave was a master with words and the following are words he wrote that reflect how he lived his life:

"I was recently at Chinn family reunion and renewed my love for my family and gratitude for each member.

I think this is a wonderful tradition, one well worth the effort. In the end it is the renewal of associations and memories built from years of experiences that make reunion a sacred time. I hope we continue.

 I am continually disheartened by the world events which seem so apocalyptically bent. Globally, there seems little hope, and the scourge touches every nation, kindred, tongue, and people.

That is until we stop to consider the small space we occupy, and the small orbits we affect, by which we are affected. Our reunion is an example. It is “peace where we stand.” Oh that every human would look within and be good there first, then to one other significant person, and learn to bring joy and plenty within that orbit, flowing outward was we go.

We will never force equality, purity, love or peace. But we can start purifying, loving, and finding the joyful one, “I.” We may then as we work, reach out and affect the orbiting others.”

Dave did the very thing he described here; he worked on himself first and then spread his love, wisdom, joy, and laughter to the many orbiting others. We are immensely better because of him.

tt seems to me that it is part of the Lord's plan for some families to orbit each other in this life. Another of his tender mercies.

There is "love in the stitches..." for the Heywood family.

Quilt Front

Quilt Back

Quilt #41 The Willis Family

Wonderful Willis Family minus Brian

Quilt #41 was given a couple weeks ago to the Willis Family.  They are leaving the island to move to Alabama.  Can''t you just see these beautiful children rocking seersucker? I will miss this family so much. Over two years ago. I was assigned to visit teach Melanie Willis. From the first visit, this family began to bless my life and bring me such joy.

Matthew and I at Gyu Kaku--Japanese Barbeque

Melanie and Brian are amazing parents.  I remember one early visit when I was invited to stay for dinner. The meal was yummy and then there was dancing complete with a disco ball.

I could write a page about each member of this family.  Mel is a spiritual giant. She was a huge support to me during some very dark days.  We have shared a lot of laughs and a few tears. Lasagne, chocolate covered macadamia nuts, chocolate chip cookies. and  flowers were just a few of her constant reminders of love. She always left me feeling better  about life just being in her presence.

Each time I would see their son Matthew, he would ask me when we were going on a date. We spent a few wonderful days together exploring bugs, nature and good food. There is nothing like the enthusiasm of this kid to brighten your day. He loves to open doors.  He would tell me to stay put so he could run around and open my car door for me. Brian (and Mel) have done a great job teaching him how to show love and respect.

The back of the quilt with Keiko

At the movies

Sweet Emmett is so kind to our Keiko. Each time he came over, he would always ask to walk her. Such a loving young man.

I feel like I watched Mackenna grow from a baby to a girl in just two years. She holds her own in this family of boys.

And Feenie, I forget that his name is Ethan. So adorable.

It is hard for me to write about this family without tears. They have been such an important part of my life here is Hawaii.

Aloha Oi dear ones. We will meet again.

Love in the stitches