Quilt #22 Refugee Quilt

Quilt #22 Refugee Donation

Quilt #22 was donated to a refugee project by Amanda Rand.

This morning I received an unexpected, unsolicited message indicating that a quilt had been donated and asking where to send the picture and story to have it added to The Duncan Project. It was from our dear friend Amanda Rand.

Her are Amanda's words:

This was a project I started about 10 years ago. It's a buggy barn pattern called Barn Swallows. In SLC there has been a huge influx of refugees coming in from all over the world. I met a woman, who, in an effort to remedy her sever depression gathers donations from the valley and takes them to these people. There are apartment complexes where they are housed and she drives down every week and within minutes their truck and sometimes trailer are emptied. Her stories are incredibly sad and humbling. They are obviously in need of warmth with the upcoming change of seasons. I heard someone say once that when we donate it shouldn't be the items we can do without. Give good things, new things, jeans on sale at Walmart! Buy extra and give so people don't have to feel like they are wearing rags. Same idea with the quilt, hoping someone loves something new and beautiful to sleep under.

The batting and machine quilting was generously donated by Amanda's friend, Tamara Ellis.

I love this reminder to give good things. When I was a child, our family was in need and the quilts that we were given were beautifully pieced, hand quilted Wedding Ring quilts.  I still think often of that gift, the best hands have to offer.  Amanda's generosity inspires me and lifted me this day.

Amanda in front in black tee at her going away party.
She was here in Mililani with us 2 years. Of the 10
women,only 5 are still here.

Quilt #20 Michele:Dedicated to Mothers Who Mourn

Sisters

Quilt #20 was presented to a sweet sister named Michele who faces the daunting task of shepherding her son through a tragic loss. Their story was made very public by the media and will not be repeated here with respect for her privacy. The quilt was given as a small token of support for this mother and to assure her there are many mothers who have walked her path and offer understanding and compassion.

When you bear, raise and nurture a child, an almost tangible connection is created. Michaela once said to me "we have a spring between our hearts."  So it follows that when something happens that threatens to drown our child in sorrow, we. as mothers take on water as well.

Watching this situation unfold, I think of this mother and her anxious yearnings to protect her son, hoping this tragedy will not leave permanent scars. And it lead me to think about many other hard things mothers face...mothers with children in prison, addicted to substances, or those making choices that may take them from the plan God has for his children. The burdens these mothers bear when they are faced with situations they cannot control and in many cases dare not speak of except to a loving Heavenly Father. My heart goes out to these mothers and I  have hope for I know the  Master Healer knows how to "succor his people according to their infirmities."

In my own life I have experienced the power of learning to accept Gods will and I am working diligently to trust his plan for my children, knowing that He loves them as much as I do. I am learning what a gift our most difficult trials can be. Especially when we actively turn to our Heavenly Father willing to be refined by the lessons He has for us. Knowing that as Elder Holland was quoted in the latest conference:

"There really is light at the end of the tunnel. it is the Light of the World, the Bright and Morning Star, the 'light that is endless, that cannot be darkened.' Mosiah 16:9. It is the very Son of God Himself."

He marked the path and led the way....

Love in the stitches.....

Quilt #19 Beverley and Freya Parker

Quilt #19 was presented to Beverley and Freya Parker on October 9, 2016.  These two beautiful daughters of God lost their father and husband this past month. I had a cute Dr. Suess quilt that had been donated but it just seemed more appropriate to create a unique gift for Freya. She loves princesses and sparkles (Take a look at her cute shoes). She is worthy of a princess quilt and the back is sparkle material.

Raising a child as a single mom is difficult and there will be days ahead when Freya will deeply miss her dad. There are many in her family and ward family that love Beverley and her sweet Freya including a sister, Rosella who will play a huge role in her life.. Im sure her loving father  will be supporting from the Spirit world as well as many others who have gone before.
 
Beverley was holding the quilt while she and I were chatting and her Freya took the quilt from her arms and began to rub it against her cheek.  As time goes bye, I hope it will continue to be a comfort and remind her she is loved by many. There is love in these stitches for girls who are braver than any Disney princess.

Isn't she adorable.

Quilt #21 Na Lima Aloha

Once again I am out of order but I want to assure you all that #19 and #20 are finished and are in the process of being gifted.

One of my favorite gifted quilters Susan Haushalter.  I learn
something new from her each time I am in her presence.
Sometimes it has to do with quilting.

Today #21 was finished and provided to Na Lima Aloha. 

When I first started The Duncan Project, I ran into a wonderful quilter (Sandra Chin) at the fabric store who introduced me to the Hawaii Quilt Guild. The members are without a doubt some of the most generous women I have ever known. I joined the guild and have begun to attend the various quilting get togethers (called quilting bees) on the island. As we sew, we share what we are working on. More than 50 percent of the time, these quilters are working on something to be given away to comfort others. They understand the "love is in the stitches."

This is the description of the Na Lima Aloha project from the guild website.

Nā Lima ALOHA (THE HANDS THAT LOVE)
Nā Lima Aloha was established in July 2004 as a community service to support various organizations and agencies throughout Oahu and to support relief operations in other areas as well. Through the donations of smaller-sized quilts, we share our aloha with displaced, needy, or critically ill children and adults. Organizations we have contributed to in the past include various senior citizen convalescent homes, the Veterans Administration Center for the Aging, hospitals, abuse shelters, and foster care facilities. In the past year we have donated over 300 items throughout the island.

One interesting aspect of the Na Lima Aloha quilts is that they are all made with donated fabric. The fabric once donated is cut and packaged with a pattern and batting creating a kit.  The volunteer quilter can select a kit to work on, either at the bee or at home, and it is returned to Na Lima Aloha for distribution. This quilt cost me nothing apart from thread and time.

We quilt once a month at the
Wahiawa Botanical Garden.

This is a great project for beginning quilters as the patterns are all very simple and as Susan Haushalter told me today, "There are no quilt police." Meaning my best effort is good enough. If any locals are interested in participating, please contact me and I will help facilitate. It is a great way to sew at home or come and meet other quilters. In addition, if you have fabric that is just taking up space, consider donating.  I love the idea that a child will get to enjoy this sweet little quilt and I love that this project has brought me into a space with so many wonderful women who act out of love and concern for others.

Quilt #18 Beth Gish

Beth Gish with her quilt, which she named Duncan.

Quilt #18 was received by Beth Gish on September 23, 2016.  Beth was probably my first friend when I moved from California to Layton Utah when I was 15. I was drawn then to her charming, kind and funny personality.  A few years ago we reconnected via Facebook and at a reunion picnic and I feel as connected as ever.

In December of 2014, Beth's husband Randy contracted the flu.  He progressively got worse and was hospitalized as the flu turned to sepsis.   He fought valiantly surrounded by family and friends until his passing on January 17, 2015.

In Beth's words, "After exactly one month of suffering, Randy joined God while I cradled his head in my arms, our faces cheek to cheek, as I told him to fight, breathe with me. Our three children, his two brothers, sisters in law held hands around his bed."

Beth lost her partner after 30 years of marriage at the young age of 54. I have been so inspired by her strength as she courageously picks up the pieces and moves forward. Add to that  Beth has entered the empty nest phase of her life alone. It is a blessing that her children and grandchildren live close.

At my house in Hawaii.

I was working on this quilt when I read a post of Beth's. She bravely acknowledged the emptiness left behind when Randy joined his Heavenly Father. I immediately knew that this quilt belonged to Beth.

There is another interesting aspect to our story.  My own father passed when I was 15.  My parents were separated at the time and we were living in Utah, while he died in California.  I still remember the night he passed very vividly. I received the news and was truly incredulous.  I had just talked to him the night before. In my distress, I left my house and went to Beth's. There I was comforted and fed by my dear friend and her family (roast, mashed potatoes, green beans and gravy, how specific). Afterwards, Beth and I went outside and shot baskets as I processed the reality of the change in my life. She was kind and compassionate then as she is now.

Beth wrote, "One final kiss. This was calming,
I knew that Randy was no longer suffering and
was fishing with our Father."

Here is Beth with her
beloved Randy as youngsters.

I received the most beautiful thank you note from Beth.  In her words, "It's hard to type with happy tears flowing down my face! I am speechless! Each stitch on this beautiful quilt speaks of unselfish love!! The colors even totally match my recliner chair that I won't share with anyone, other than my grandson (true devotion). When I wrap myself in my Duncan quilt I think of this precious life gone too soon, but most importantly, I will think of you, my forever, kind, supportive friend...I live life not just for myself, but for him too (Randy).  I told him when he was leaving this earth that my heart would beat for both of us that that I would live life to the fullest." This is how my strong, courageous friend chooses to live.

Beth has raised three beautiful children, Joe, Jamie and Natalie. They carry so many of her good qualities.  Moments after hearing from Beth, I received a message from her daughter, Jamie, thanking me for putting a smile on her mother's face and how she was deeply touched.  Very like her mother.

I feel truly honored to offer my dear friend a physical representation of the love I feel for her.  I hope it brings her a measure of comfort and reminds her that Randy lives because of our Savior and that they will be together again. Beth continues to bless my life and the lives of so many.

Bre, Jamie, Joe at the gravesite

Bre and Natalie visiting Randy's grave.

Beth's grandsons doing what boys do.

Quilt #16 and 17 Jeni and Max Nell Family

Max, Lincoln, Jeni and Quinn Ruby

Quilts #16 and 17 were presented on September 14th to Jeni and Max Nell for their two children Lincoln and Quinn.  The quilts were both donated to The Duncan Project. Number 16 by Ellen Huntley and the #17 by Marilyn Eyre.

Their home after the fire

Five weeks earlier Jeni, then 37 weeks pregnant, woke up around 4 am to a popping noise. She suspected that someone was outside trying to break into her car. When she looked out the window, she was shocked to see fire. She sprang into action, woke her husband Max and they were able to get their son and all the pets out as flames began to engulf their home (someone later recounted that it was amazing that Max had thrown a sofa to allow them to escape).  The fire department was called and arrived quickly but was surprised to find out that the water from the hydrant near their home had been turned off. They watched in horror as the fire continued to ravage their home. Max talked about the feeling of helplessness as they watched their newly rennovated home completed destroyed.

 As I talked with them they recounted a number of miracles and tender mercies along the way with this devastating event. One simple yet so important "miracle" was that just days earlier, Jeni, downloaded many of the most important family photos on a thumb drive which was sitting on the counter which she was able to grab on the way out. They have experienced incredible generosity along the way.  There is a Go Fund Me page for this family and they have received much in the way of clothing and household goods.  They are now awaiting the difficult process of getting back into a home of their own (they are staying with a generous family member).  I asked Jeni about her best advice and her reply was so pragnatic but perfect, "Always make sure you have insurance."

Ellen Huntley with the darling
Dr. Suess quilt for Lincoln

A couple of weeks after the tragic fire, Jeni gave birth to their second child Quinn Ruby. She is a beautiful baby and their darling 2 year old Lincoln has tons of energy and a smile that will melt your heart. Watching Max and Jeni with their children, it was clear to me that the most important things were saved.  They are a courageous couple.

The quilts themselves are tender mercies. As I started this project, I joined the Hawaii Quilt Guild.  Early on while meeting these wonderful quilters, Ellen Huntley asked me what I was working on. Through my tears I told her about The Duncan Project (I found out later that a number of woman in the room wondered who the crying crazy newbie was).  Matter of factly, Ellen said, "I'll make one." She had just met me and was already offering to sew a quilt. She never said another word about it until I received an email that said the quilt was ready. I was so touched.

Marilyn Eyre with the matching
Dr. Suess minky quilt for Quinn

The second quilt was what created by what I will call "proxy quilting."  My dear friend, Marilyn Eyre (Quilt #10) is the one who made me aware of this deserving family.  Marilyn is one of the most generous woman I know.  At this point, with her health issues, Marilyn is unable to quilt.  One of her loving sisters stepped up and created this sweet minky quilt for Marilyn to provide.  We are all connected.  The Nell family is related to Marilyn's hospice aide Sonnie and Sonnie was there that night as the quilts were given offering love andsupport. Thank you to all the volunteers involved in Quilts #16 and 17.  I am so inspired by the courage of this young family and all those who provide encouragement and comfort in this trial.

As this project progresses, I am reminded of Camilla Kimball's quote, "Never suppress a generous thought."  There are those all around us who can use a kind word, a sweet service or a QUILT.  When you have the impulse, reach out, blessings await both giver and receiver.

Quilt #15 Macady Moe

Macady with her quilt at school.

Quilt #15 was presented to Macady Moe. I first learned of Macady from my dear friend Tara Wilkinson a few years ago. She talked of a brave young girl who was having surgery to put a rod in her spine.  Since then I have learned that she also has the same syndrome that Tara's daughter Becca has. When a quilt is presented, I ask the recipient if they are aware of anyone who could use a quilt and Tara suggested Macady. It has been an absolute delight to create this one of a kind quilt for her. Macady is interested in becoming a marine biologist so the quilt is meant to reflect the colors of the ocean.


I contacted Macady's mother and ask her to share a little information about Macady:

Macady is an angel sent to earth to show people how to keep their beliefs, hope and dignity alive while suffering chronically... At the age of 11 the doctors diagnosed Macady with Shuermanns Kyphosis which is just opposite of scoliosis.   Instead of her spine growing back and forth like scholiosis.. Her spine grows in pie shaped discs stacking forward and causes her to have a hunchback like spine. Eventually Macady's spine would grow so far forward it would affect much of her body, and primarily her lungs... So Macady at 14, underwent a serious but common procedure installing titanium rods in her back from the top of her neck to the bottom of her thoracic... It is what has taken place in the last 4 years following the procedure that has changed Macady for life. She chronically grew ill. Macady suffers in silence all day everyday with chronic pain of all kinds. She has permanent nerve damage all over her body.She also has lost her cognitive and mobile ability to no explanation from the doctors. Each symptom affects the next and Macady finds herself most of her day in bed, trying to find relief from all kinds of chronic symptoms. The more Macady tries to exercise or help her body, the worse her symptoms get.. She is a mystery to all doctors who see her and it is only thru a loving dedicated friend Tara who has found a doctor that could give a possible diagnosis w a disease called POTS, that is any explanation of what her life has become... Macady wants to experience life as the other girls her age do. So Macady is attending SUU. In her long 4 weeks away from home she is finding that she simply is disabled and cannot pretend to be " normal" like the others. Her courage, the incredible strength she has from knowing who she is and where she is going, shines to the other girls in the world. This quilt (that is so personal), and the Duncan Project that Stacey has created, came at the perfect time to remind Macady and her family that her Heavenly Father is aware of her. Her pains, her needs, her wants and desires, but most of all to remind Macady the HE still works miracles thru acts of service by his angels here on earth like the Wilkinsons and the Tates. 

The day after she received her quilt,  I received the most beautiful text from Macady.  I wanted to share a portion to let you know how truly courageous and remarkable this young woman is

They call this a zombie quilt since you can't
see my head in the photo.

This is Macady Moe:) I got your letter and amazing quilt in the mail yesterday! ...I can't tell you how much it meant to me. I am so touched by this amazing project. Every time life gets to be unbearable, I am reminded every time that we are here to help and love others no matter our own suffering. It was so nice to get a pretty literally comfort package in the mail while I'm down at school all by myself. And I LOVE the colors! Looks just like the ocean! I can't believe you live in Hawaii AND went to suu. We were meant to know each other;) so cool. Thank you for reaching out to me and being in tune with the spirit. Lastly, thank you for telling me the part about the lord caring more about our progress and learning than our comfort. I have never heard a more perfect quote to describe my life. I love learning more than anything and have such a strong desire to become something in life.. and this quote really eased my mind about why I would be allowed to be in so much pain while I'm trying to accomplish good things. I know the lord has been my constant companion in this terribly lonely trial And I know this is how he wants me to live for some unknown reason. But people like you (rare finds) are sent to remind me that someone knows of my effort and struggles that I have for so long kept to myself. I love the quilt so much and you have really brightened my spirits!❤❤
I am lifted by this beautiful girl and her testimony.  She understands more than most about the purpose of her life on earth and the Lord's purpose in our lives.