The Duncan Project: August 2019

Sunday, August 25, 2019

Quilt #82 Josiah Beach donated by Terry Powell and Stacey Tate

Josiah with his quilt at the bowling alley

Quilt #82 was given to Josiah Beach to celebrate his baptism. Josiah is Duncan's older brother. Over the last few years I have heard a few tender stories of how Josiah misses his younger brother Duncan and a sweet testimony that he is looking forward to reuniting with his younger brother. Josiah has a sure and tender faith that confirms his understanding of where Duncan is now and often talks of being with him again.

Josiah received this quilt quite by coincidence on Duncan's birthday. His mother Alisa shared with me that on the morning of Duncan's birthday, Josiah told her that he had had a dream about Duncan. He couldn't remember what happened but he told her "Mom, this is my lucky day! I got to dream about Duncan last night."

Terry Powell donated this quilt top to The Duncan Project a few months ago. When I saw it, I immediately noted the airplane fabric. I remember seeing videos of Duncan and Josiah watching videos of airshows with their Grandpa Duncan and I thought it would be a perfect for Josiah to remind him of his brother in heaven and celebrate his baptism. It also had a large orange sections of fabric which was Duncan's favorite color.

I decided to machine quilt this quilt with a star pattern only to be reminded by Josiah's mother that each member of this family has a symbol (Duncan's was a palm tree). What I didn't know was that Josiah's is a star in the middle of a firework. Another sweet coincidence.

The Jensens, Beaches and Duncans at the bowling alley celebrating Duncan's birthday

Duncan loved to bowl and their family continues to celebrate his birthday at the bowling alley each year. Such a beautiful way to remember him and his loving influence during his short time on each.

I hope Josiah will enjoy this quilt and that it will serve as a reminder of the eternal nature of families. There is a strong connection between these brothers and I hope Josiah will feel the love in these stitches...

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....