In a Perfect World

Not long ago, a friend shared on Facebook this photo from National Sewing Circle. (Thanks, Donna!) So I, in turn, shared it on Lanetta’s Creations Facebook page!

It would be a perfect world if it worked this way….

How many people quilt?

Every four years independent companies provide a “Quilting in America” survey (although I’ve never been contacted!). The last one, conducted in 2014, indicates the market is worth $3.76 billion (yes, that’s BILLION) annually! They report we have more than 16 million active quilters in the USA – one out of 20 Americans quilts!

I am one.

What’s the difference between a quilt and a blanket?

A quilt has three layers – top, batting, backing.

A blanket is a single layer of fabric.

Cost to create a quilt:

Although dated 8/31/2013, I found an excellent article on Katie’s Quilting Corner that discusses all the aspects of quiltmaking. What do you think of what Katie explains?

I found this cost sheet on the internet. I’m sorry I failed to note who created it, but it’s more in line with 2016 cost of fabrics and materials to make a quilt.

It’s all just a reminder, for those of us who quilt.

It’s an expensive endeavor.

But, one so worthwhile! With every cut made and stitch sewn, it’s a thoughtful prayer and hope filled with love. Wrapped in a quilt, it’s the hug that keeps giving!

Whispers in the Wind

“Whispers in the Wind” is an inspiring concept that brings peace and comfort to me, just by saying the words out loud. When I read more about The Prayer Flag Project, I knew immediately I would have to create one, or two, or many.

It came about when I received an email from Quilting Daily yesterday and the subject line read: With a Wish and a Prayer. I was intrigued. Then what I discovered, I knew I wanted to share with you. Maybe you’re like me and late to the party!

Vivika Hansen DeNegre started The Prayer Flag Project back in 2011. I found her on Facebook and liked her “Vivika Hansen DeNegre Art Quilts” page for additional inspiration!

Oh, then I went to Pinterest and searched “Prayer Flag Project”! Of course I did! Such creative people in this world! I did a screen shot from the Pinterest search, just to give an example!

Now back to her blog… a sampling of her words that touched my heart and spirit:

…it is believed that the prayers on the flags are lifted to God and spread throughout the universe as they flutter in the wind. Everyone who is touched by that wind, is touched by the prayers. The wind spreads the prayers through the world, extending happiness, good will, and peace.

Realistically I will not make one a day, but I can make some. Until then, and beyond, now each time I feel the wind on my face, I will be absorbing the prayer from a Prayer Flag someone, somewhere in this world, has made. Because, now I know about the whispers in the wind!

Start Sunday

Photo by Coolhand3011

It goes without saying it’s not just on Sunday that I begin the day with a heartfelt dose of gratitude. My morning prayers always begin with a “Thank You”. It’s the way I start Sunday, and every day.

Today’s post is different than what I usually write about. Today I’m sharing a personal story. The purpose is filled with the hope that encourages you to always stay true to your own heart. It's a reminder, not just for you, but for me, too!

I once received a book filled with instructions on how to pray. The giver wrote an inscription congratulating me on graduating from college after years of off/on pursuit (2006). Within her congratulatory comments, she suggested / directed me to this page and that page within the book. Although I’ll always appreciate the gesture, oddly enough however, reading through it almost destroyed me. According to this book, to this writer (and apparently the giver), I have never prayed correctly. And, because of this, God never would hear my prayers (or that He had ever heard them throughout my years).

Other than my husband, who saw my flood of tears at the drop of a hat, it took me several months to reveal my devastation to anyone. When I did, I found out my dear friend also had a copy of the same book. I learned she had never interpreted it the way I had. She got her book off the shelf as I pointed out the different writings ~ I had gone through my book over and over again, using a yellow highlighter, noting the tear stained places I found crushing my spirit. The author used scripture to show how to pray “accurately” is the only way to have prayers heard.

She was baffled. She spoke with her pastor and it was then both of them saw/read what I immediately saw/read. When she got back with me, she (and her pastor) agreed with my husband ~ who had been trying to tell me all along ~ and assured me that my conversations, my prayers with God were indeed heard, always had been, always will be.

I burned the book. I didn’t want it in my home, on my bookshelf, anywhere around me. In a way, I wish now I had first made a photocopy of the inscription. But, since it included references to different pages within the book the giver thought I should read, it is better I didn’t keep a copy. It would only be a reminder of what the giver really thought of me and how she believed I needed to learn how to pray correctly and accurately–

I do. I’m heard.

It’s beyond me why I felt the need to share this story today, or ever. Maybe there is someone reading this going through a similar situation of questioning ~ rest assured, God hears you!