I met a new friend at a Ozaukee County Newcomer's luncheon about three months ago. During the meal she mentioned that her husband had died recently. I don't know exactly what happened...but I remember her saying "I took him to the hospital but I thought I'd be bringing him home." Suddenly she was alone and seemingly "lost" without him.
So a few weeks later I told her that, if she wanted, I would be happy to make her a small quilt using some of his favorite garments. I suggested she take her time to think about it and there was no rush, but she quickly accepted my offer. She delivered his shirts along with one special tie that she really wanted me to include. Gulp. I'd never worked with a silk tie before!
I think I've made about six or seven of these memory quilts and each one is very special to me. As I work with the garments I get a "picture" of the person that I never knew.....a snapshot of his/her personality. It's not a sad task for me......I feel good being able to create a quilt that may provide a bit of warmth and comfort to a loved one left behind.
The only time it was really difficult to do was when, while working at VITAS Hospice, one of our social workers asked me to make a quilt for a friend of hers. In memory of her little boy....and when I got that bag full of a two year old's overalls and t-shirts it took me weeks to be able to begin. Every time I'd take the clothing out to begin I would think of my young grandsons, get completely weepy and have to put everything away again. But eventually I took a deep breath, started cutting with my fabric scissors and that little quilt was finished and given to his parents.
This quilt was not hard to make.....but it was memorable.....colors and patterns for a well-loved man who is missed every day. I always end up feeling a little like I knew the person as I work with the fabric.
So it's done.....and I was able to use the tie just as she hoped......
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