The Duncan Project: November 2018

Friday, November 30, 2018

Quilt #69 Terina Holmes

Quilt #69 was presented to Terina Holmes. Terina is soon to leave the island (against her will). Hers is a military family so they go where they are required and she will be moving to Washington soon. I started a quilt for Terina with fabric reminescent of France (where she served her mission) but I just kept feeling that she needed fabric to remind her of her time here in Hawaii

There are so many things to love about Terina. She is a loyal friend and is fearless in defense of those who need her help. She is open and loving and does not shy away from the hard discussions. I personally think she has a gift to stand with those who can't stand for themselves. She openly shares her struggles and makes others feel free to do the same.

Terina has been a great supporter of The Duncan Project. She has donated fabric. In addition, she provided me with names of people who could really use a quilt. She is aware of others and their needs and I have personally witnessed her serving in quiet ways. A key lime tart or a text message to check in and let others know they are loved.

Terina seems so at home at the beach. She is an expert at beach combing and makes her own jewelry with the treasures she has collected.

This quilt is one of my favorites and there is lots of love in the stitches for this wonderful friend and the child she has generously shared with me (Jacob).

Thursday, November 8, 2018

Quilt # 66 Darci and Jared Jensen

Quilt #66 was given to Darci and Jared Jensen as a wedding present.

Darci is Duncan's aunt and so much more. She lived in the same home with him from the beginning to his passing at 2.5 years. Darci would often post pictures and videos of the nieces and nephews and it was clear that she cherished the relationships with these amazing and funny little children.

Opening the box.

Reading the card

Smiles and tears

Duncan's parents, grandparents and siblings were together when the quilt was opened. They sent a wonderful video and these still photos. Darci knew from the address on the box that it likely contained a Duncan Quilt. Her tears touch me greatly as they show me that she understands the love sewn into this quilt and Duncan's presence in the process. Also noteworthy is the look on her new husbands face. He was unaware of the project and was likely taken aback by all the tears in the room.

I worked with Darci when she served as a leader for the YCL's at Girls Camp. She has such a loving, generous, and inclusive spirit and she draws people in so easily. I have also heard her bear a powerful testimony and I know that she understands Duncan's current mission. Darci sent me a thank you and shared with me another tender mercy as Duncan's influence continues to be felt on this earth.

Darci and Duncan wearing crowns

This quilt just feels joyful and echoes both Darci and Duncan. Love in the stitches...

Wrapped in love. This quilt
has a minky back and was
long armed using the bubbles
pattern.

The Beginning

The Duncan Project was conceived one day shortly after Duncan's passing while I was out walking the dog. At the time, I was praying and pleading for understanding and acceptance. One of the tender mercies I received was a very clear answer that it was God's will and that "it's okay." Armed with that knowledge, I looked for a way to process my own grief, while turning my heart to God and honoring Duncan. To learn the lessons Heavenly Father has for us and in response increase my love and support to those in need.

I remember distinctly two separate occasions in my life of great distress where I received a handmade quilt. These were not merely blankets for warmth (which in one instance was very much needed) but works of art. The best loving hands have to offer and I felt deeply comforted. I could feel the love in the stitches.

My mind started to contemplate if these quilts could be created as a comfort and a way to show love to those in time of joyful or difficult transition. Would this also be the means of healing for my broken heart? The Spirit whispered yes. I have invited close friends and family to join me in making quilts and identifying recipients. In this blog, I will tell the stories of givers and receivers. So the journey of a 100 quilts begins....