Winter always means spending more time sewing but I also spend more time reading too. And reading books about quilting are always a favorite. You too? Today I have the opportunity to host a wonderful giveaway of a book by Mona Hodgson, popular author of several historical novels centered on women's lives and their quilting in the 1800s. The book is a compilation of three novels in one volume called The Quilted Heart.
Here's a little info about the book -
"Like a beautiful patchwork quilt, the three novellas in The Quilted Heart tell stories of lives stitched together with love and God’s unending grace.
"Once a week, Elsa Brantenberg hosts the Saint
Charles Quilting Circle at her farmhouse on the outskirts of the riverside town
of St. Charles, Missouri. The ladies who gather there have all experienced
heartache related to the intense hardships of the Civil War and together they
are facing their painful circumstances with friendship and prayer. Can the
tattered pieces of their hearts be stitched together by God’s grace?"
When I think about quilters from the past I realize that ours lives are not so different from theirs. We too still struggle and celebrate as they did - There are weddings, births and funerals, challenges and conflicts, joys mingled with sorrows and failures turned into victories. Our lives are stories stitched together, just like quilts.
For a chance to win a signed copy of The Quilted Heart omnibus – all three novellas in one volume - just leave a comment on my blog telling me how quilting has gotten you through some tough times and how it has been a refuge for you. Comments will close on Saturday night and the winner will be announced sometime on Sunday.
See author Mona Hodgson's website and blog for more of her delightful books AND a free block pattern for a quilt that's in my book The Civil War Sewing Circle. Best of luck to the winner!
I'm going through some tough issues with my elderly mother, and being able to find a few minutes to work on some sort of sewing has really helped me to relax and reboot!
ReplyDeleteI have been a quilter and sewer for many years. My Mom taught me and my Dad was supporter. About 7 years ago my Dad took a fall and broke his neck. He spent the remainder of his life in Veterans Care passing away 3 years ago. Just before he feel he helped me pay for my new sewing machine. I have sewed and sewed and spend many hours thinking of him. I am happiest with needle and thread in my hand.
ReplyDeleteChristine Gibbons
yulece1957@yahoo.ca
Quilting reminds me of my grandma because of her I have the love of quilts. I have been restoring her old quilts for the past couple if years.
ReplyDeleteCampbellamyd at gmail dot com
After leaving a job that was quilting related I had a hard time even setting down and sewing. Several years have passed and once again I can pick up my needle and thread and start quilting again. I have found great peace in setting and reflecting on the great gift God has given me. I am truly thankful for the amazing quilters that touch so many lives without even realizing it.
ReplyDeleteSimply Stitching
After my mother died three years ago, I spent one winter quilting blocks that my grandmother had cut out but never sewn together. It is true that a quilt can hold your sadness but also your joy in its stitches. That quilt reconnected me to women I love and still miss.
ReplyDeleteI just love reading your blog, I get so inspired! Please include my name in your book give away. I would love to read it! Tina
ReplyDeleteQuilting has always been my refuge. The most difficult time in my life was when my daughter,Elizabeth,died of cancer at 17 years old. In the year that followed I hand-pieced and hand-quilted "Izzy's Snowmen", a quilt I had collected snowman fabrics for and promised her I'd make. A lot of tears were shed, memories revived, and healing begun in the making of that quilt.Yes, I believe quilting is therapeutic.
ReplyDeleteHi, Everyone! I'm enjoying your comments. Many thanks to you, Kathy, for celebrating the release of The Quilted Heart novellas with me. Happy Quilting! Mona
ReplyDeleteI've been quilting for many years, and I find quilting to be a refuge, when I need to have some time to myself. It's a distraction from some of the tough things I am going through right now. I can focus on cutting, piecing and quilting and give my mind and heart a restful place to land. Thanks for the giveaway. I too love reading. Another temporary escape.
ReplyDeleteQuilting is helping me right now. I'm being treated for ovarian cancer, and sometimes I only feel like a little hand work, but I love the feeling, the hope, that I can still make progress toward finishing a project, even if it's slower than I'd like.
ReplyDeleteHand-quilting is so special to me because of the peace it brings, especially during difficult times. It is quiet time to think, time to remember, time to plan ahead. It is truly a time that is stress free. Thank you, Kathy & Mona for the wonderful giveaway.
ReplyDeleteIt helps to calm my mind of worrying.
ReplyDeleteEvery winter I'm a little bit down. The first time i wasn't I sewed my Sylvias bridal sampler.(It is called Blue's) So every winter i start with a big project now.
ReplyDeleteMy mother always encourage me to quilt. Even though she didn't sew. She has been gone 10 years now but I think of her often and thank her for encouraging me. Please include me in the book drawing. Would love to win!
ReplyDeleteAbout 5 years ago I joined a group hand piecing of Dear Jane. I love the hand work but cherish the support and friendship of the 8 women.
ReplyDeleteThank you for offering this giveaway.
Quilting has given me the best friends of my life who have been there for me whenever I need support.
ReplyDeleteReading and quilting are both a way for me to stay centered and sane. And my quilt group, too.
ReplyDeleteQuilting keeps me sane. Spending time at my sewing machine always gives me peace and fills my heart with warmth and makes me think of my own ancestors who passed this tradition on to me. I found out recently that one of my Grandmothers started a quilting group in the 1920s in the town I was born in. Eighty-five years later, I started a Quilt Guild in the town I live in. I found this newspaper article 2 years ago searching for a scripture to share at my brothers on Thanksgiving. It was tucked away in my Mother's Bible for me to find on a day when I most needed that continuity in my life.
ReplyDeleteBarbara Daniel Cissne
barbaracissne@yahoo.com
I love reading about quilting and the quilters from any time.. a way to feel really connected to a wonderful obsession! Of course I also love making quilts today!
ReplyDeleteWhen things start to build up just a few minutes in my sewing room can calm me down. Reading and quilting are my favorite pastimes and ones that I would love to pass on to my grandchildren.
ReplyDeleteQuilting is cheaper than therapy! It makes me happy with the colors, the fabric, the creativity of others, and a sense of accomplishment. Often times I make quilts for others having a hard time. I know of no better way to show my love and empathy for them.
ReplyDeleteMy grandmother made me a quilt to take to college. The "triangle" quilt became the one my children always asked for when they were sick because it helped them feel better. A son has had a particularly hard life. I gave the quilt to him because I felt he needed it most.
Quilting is "my time!" It is the time that I can be creative and productive. I love reading quilt books and blogs. It is a way to connect with the past as well as leave a legacy for the future.
ReplyDeleteThank you all for your interest in The Quilted Heart Omnibus. I wish everyone could win a copy. Thanks, too, for sharing your stories with us. Blessings! Mona
ReplyDeleteI love the 'down time' quilting allows...While quilting, with each stitch I am granted time for reflection upon the day's events...the good, the bad and the ugly. Somehow the stitches bring focus and direction clearing the emotional clutter, strengthening purposes and setting life in order. The beauty of quilting, once the project is completed, healing and restoration are blanketed in love. I shutter to think what my life would be like without this healing process!
ReplyDeleteSo many times ... a child's broken engagement after the wedding quilt was started, the loss of a much-wanted unborn child and two grandchildren, a son's lymphoma cancer diagnosis, the burden of living too far away from children and grandchildren especially during the lonely holidays ... we quilt and pray through all of them and think of better days ahead. Thank you for offering this book.
ReplyDeleteQuilting keeps me grounded. I love all aspects of it but the handwork is always the most calming for me. I have a 20 minute rule. that is my minimum for everyday. You would be surprised just how much you can accomplish doing 20 minutes a day. thank you for the opportunity to win.
ReplyDeleteMary
What a great way to enjoy my passion for quilting even when I'm not sewing. I would love to win!!! Karen/IL.
ReplyDeleteQuilting brings back memories of both my grandmas whom were both great quilters. I spent many hours learning from them
ReplyDeleteKathleen, Unfortunately I have never had the opportunity to learn quilting but have always desired to do it. I love the way a quilt holds memories for the people who create them and just to have one in my home brings me comfort as I look back on why I acquired it.
ReplyDeletethank you
I too am in the early stages of being a caregiver. My sewing room is my place to go and be creative, play with my fabrics and dream about all the wonderful quilts I am going to make some day. I am very fortunate to have this interest. I love trying out new patterns and sharing the results with my friends.
ReplyDeleteI have so far not learned to quilt.But hopefully one day will.I have several quilts that has been a blessing and just to curl up under and feel the love that went into them have helped me in many troublesome times in my life.Alot of love and hardwork goes into every stitch.jackie_tessnair@yahoo.com
ReplyDeleteNo doubt quilting and Internet quilting friends have been my mainstay for many, especially the last 8 years during the coordination of health care and maintenance of family members through losing them and becoming their liaison for handling their estates. I gift and a stressful thing, family. Quilting allows my mind to quiet and my friends allow my mind to know I will make to through.
ReplyDeleteThe quilting related books and historical ones have become quite a grand respite themselves. This is a nice opportunity to win one and for sure add another author to my reading list, thanks!
Jane Modjeski
I would love to win a copy of these stories! The Civil War changed all our lives in ways we cannot image 150 years later. I do hope I win! Mary in AZ
ReplyDeleteI was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease three years ago and was really sick. Just sitting in my sewing room would lift my spirits. As I started to get better, just sewing a little was so good for the soul.
ReplyDeleteSewing and learning to quilt is my therapy. Having had lots of health issues involving my mom and myself, both of us surviving breast cancer, I find peace and quiet with needle and thread in hand. Thanks for the chance to win this great book.
ReplyDeleteWhen my sister was going through treatment for breast cancer I made her a quilt. With every stitch I thought of her. Making that quilt was something I could do for her at a time when I was feeling quite useless.
ReplyDeleteWhen I am at my sewing machine, I can forget about what is troubling me and focus on what I am making.I find peace and joy in sewing and quilting.Sewing makes me happy and hand quilting brings peace to my mind. Therefore my problems don't bother me as much. Thank you for the giveaway.
ReplyDeleteI love reading about women and their quilting. It gives me a boost to keep going. I am now into doing small quilts as I can get them done.
ReplyDeletekarleenm@msn.com
Stationed too far away from family, quilting kept me sane through my husband's deployments. With all the added responsibilities of caring for our children, being able to sew a bit each day was just the de-stressing thing I needed. I still turn to my sewing machine when I need a place to think, a little mindless sewing always helps. ;-)
ReplyDeleteThanks Kathy and Mona for the chance to win this book. I started quilting about 15 years ago - and I love it. My grandma was a quilter and I would play for hours under the quilt frame and thread needles when asked. She was a precious part of my growing up years, and I feel a real closeness and connection to her when I quilt. Even though she's been gone many years, I still find myself wishing I could share with her
ReplyDeletepatterns, tools, fabric, etc.
It gives me a sense of purpose when I'm feeling like I'm only a milk-cow for my little girl ;)
ReplyDeleteThis past September I became a first time empty nester. Now, I know lots of parents look forward to this but I WAS NOT one of them! When I dropped my youngest off at college I felt like I had cut off an arm or a leg. I pieced, basted and (for the first time) free motion quilted an entire quilt in 3 days...it was the only way to stay sane!
ReplyDeleteI love reading and quilting. Every time I pick up a needle and thread, I am transported back in time to when I was a little girl. I would lay on the floor under my grandmothers quilt as she and her friends quilted and visited. I still have her candy dish which was filled with bridge mix sitting on the quilt. Such wonderful memories!
ReplyDeleteI am an artist by profession and my Mom was a huge supporter of my work. When she passed away in 2006, my passion for painting seemed to die with her and I decided to "retire".
ReplyDeleteI had always wanted to learn how to quilt but just never made the time. There is so much truth to the saying that, "Whenever one door closes, another opens" because not long after, I taught myself to quilt and I haven't looked back since. My creative canvas is now fabric and I'm enjoying every moment of my "new" life.
I look forward to reading Mona's new book.
Is there any other kind of fiction besides historical fiction? I guess so, but not to my liking. And if there is a quilt involved, so much the better! Would adore reading this book, especially since it is set in Missouri, my state! Quilting is my passion and my outlet. When troubles mount, I choose to get lost in fabric. I don't understand why touching and seeing and playing with beautiful textiles is so healing, but it truly is, for me. Stress can melt away, if I'll just go turn my back on ISSUES, go upstairs and immerse myself in the creativity that is quilting. Can't imagine life without it!
ReplyDeleteOkay, after going back and reading some of the other comments, DON't PICK ME! Pick someone who has REALLY had a rough time and lets quilts help them through. Seriously. My stress is mild compared to what some of the others have endured or are enduring. Bless them!
ReplyDeleteI would love to win the book it sounds very good. Sewing and quilting are a huge part of who I am. Quilting helps me relax and unwind if I am stressed. This last summer my father-in-law passed away, I was very saddened. Me and my husband went to a local fabric store a few days after the funeral and picked out fabrics that reminded us of him and colors that he liked. I had already picked out a pattern and I am making a remembrance quilt in his honor. When I am sewing it I can think of happy memories of our time with him. The quilt will someday be passed onto one of his grand-kids or great-grand kids.Lisa
ReplyDeleteP.S. I just finished making a needle book using your instructions from your Civil War Sewing Circle book today using Civil War repro fabics. I love it thanks!
My Sis Linda calls quilting her therapy. "Her time" too.
ReplyDeleteMany thanks to you all for your interest in my latest book, The Quilted Heart.
Hope you're having a really good week! Mona
There are such wonderful stories here in the comments. I don't have a story of troubled times. I've only been quilting for just over one year, and, as far as I know, I'm the first in my family to be interested in patchwork although my mother made wholecloth quilts. In this year I've learnt so much about sewing technique, but also about dealing with setbacks, and all supported by the group of women at my locale quilt shop who are all there for one another and for others in need. I guess all this is built on a rich history of community.
ReplyDeleteTo me Quilting can help me relax and think about the quilt for a while instead of my problems.
ReplyDeletebemiown(at)yahoo(dot)com
Thanks Kathy and Mona for a chance to win. I only started quilting to relieve stress from my Dad dying with cancer. That was 23 years ago and I haven't looked back - it has gotten me through some tough times since and it is a great therapy (not cheap but good!). Again, thanks for the opportunity to win
ReplyDeleteI have been making quilts since 1975. It has helped me through some pretty difficult times. The most difficult being the loss of my Mother and her funeral Mass on The morning of 9/11. But rather than focus on the difficult times I would rather remember the closeness I feel to my maternal grandmother. I idolized her and her skills with needle and thread. Thank you for the opportunity.
ReplyDeleteFor me, quilting gives me a place for my mind to go to just be at peace. No matter what is going on in my life at the time, quilting helps me feel centered.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the wonderful giveaway.
Living in a foreign country can be very lonely sometimes, yes I have friends but it's not the same as family, quilting keeps me sane!
ReplyDeleteStress at work, family members not talking to each other creating stress at home. I am able to go to my sewing room and escape for a while working on, dreaming about, or reading about quilts.
ReplyDeletehedgehog52@yahoo.com
Mona's books sound delightful....right up my alley, I LOVE these kind of books.
ReplyDeleteQuilting is a place to turn to through all emotions, which is what makes it so wonderful!
Thank you for the chance to win :-)
Quilting, in fact any type of hand or creative work, allows me to set aside the daily demands of work and just create. I am immersed and everything is all right.
ReplyDeleteMona's book sounds wonderful. For as long as I can remember playing with fabric in some way has been a part of my life. The colors, the textures, the patterns - it all fills a spot in my being that nothing else can.
ReplyDeleteWhen life gets stressful, a little fabric time makes everything better. And if that time can be spent with a quilting friend, it's all the better.
Getting together with my quilt group and sharing keep me sane. Being able to go into my sewing room and think about my sewing and quilting gets me through the tough days.
ReplyDeleteIt's too COLD outside! (wind chill is expected to be -20 tonight!) Staying inside and stitching/reading is the *perfect* solution!
ReplyDeleteI have a quilt called "The divorce quilt". Thank goodness for quilting. Thanks for a chance.
ReplyDeleteQuilting has always been there for me. It has been there when my dad died, my mom had cancer and when I had some serious health issues. As long as I knew I could quilt a little bit each day, I could get through the day,.
ReplyDeleteQuilting and sewing is "my" therapy anytime and I have something to show besides! I enjoy reading your blog and my goal is to make some miniature quilts this year! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteMy Stress quilt happened during a rough time with our son. There are many tears and prayers stitched into this quilt.He has turned into a man to be very proud of. I'm so very thankful!
ReplyDeleteQuilting brings me the joy of creativity and memories of my family members who started me on my quilting journey. I love passing on my pieces to those I believe will love and cherish them as much as I do :)
ReplyDeleteAfter Dear Hubby spent 10 days in the hospital last year, I needed some relaxation at home - for me. With heavy computer work at work, the TWO (yep, did both) Small Quilt Talk Siggy Block Swaps were perfect therapy. I could relax making blocks and use my hands to make something real. And DH was very supportive during my couple month sewing spree. Donna aka bjinkymom at yahoo dot com
ReplyDeleteA week ago our home was under threat of a bushfire and i had to pack my car and be prepared to leave. Among the things that i packed were my two beloved sewing machines. Fortunately, the fire was contained and we could breathe a sigh of relief. You can imagine how good it felt to bring my sewing machines back into my craft studio. That afternoon i pieced my bear's paw quilt and i was totally zoned out.. my anxiety levels dissipated, and i felt a sense of calm.
ReplyDeleteThank you Kathy & Mona for the book giveaway.. it sounds like a wonderful read :))) cheers... Marian
I was in management for 30+ years and if I had not been able to enjoy quilting in my spare time, I would have lost my mind from the stress! It did save my life by giving me time to breathe and be myself. Of course, now I have hundreds of quilts laying about everywhere! And amazingly I was able to retain my ability to make choices without calling in focus groups or taking polls. Imagine that!
ReplyDeleteLove Love Love your quilting books Kathy, Mona's book is wonderful. I am reading your Civil War Sewing Circle book and readying to use it with my girls in our homeschooling and quilting lessons. We have had some touch times with DH brain trauma and all and will be hoping this will help difuse the stress for the girls.
ReplyDeleteLinda Finn
faithfulacresbooks@gmail.com
Quilting has been my peace. All the troubles of the day wash away as I cut and sew. My sewing room is my refuse from the world.
ReplyDeleteThank you for offering. Most of my family members live hours away. Sewing or quilting a quilt for one of them offers me time to sit and think about and pray for the person. I guess I quilt love into each quilt.
ReplyDeleteI try to give myself at least 15 minutes a day to work on some sort of hand work. When life is crazy and stressful. Even if I still have a million things left to do I have learned to give myself this gift without feeling guilty. It is my happy place even when maybe the rest of the day is not.
ReplyDeleteNancy
Eddnancy@msn.com
My 33 year old nephew suffered a traumatic head injury from hit and run back in October. My quilting has provided a focus and given me great peace during all the hours of waiting.
ReplyDeleteHi Kathy,
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely idea to give away a book-right in the middle of cozy reading season :-)
Quilting has been a wonderful way for me to change the focus of my mind from work to creativity, especially when I feel frazzled!
When I have lots of reports to write, I know that at the end I'll be able to settle into quilting as soon as I'm done-that's a big reward. Please enter me in your giveaway!
Thanks!!
Cathryn in Corvallis
cathryndmk@nwlink.com
I love making quilts for my family but most of all I enjoy meeting with my quilt group once a month to work on comfort quilts, quilts for Habitat for Humanity and small quilted gifts we donate to various church fairs each Christmas. Thank you for offering this book.
ReplyDeleteI have found that the focus of matching points, pressing and trying to make little stitches that releieves my stress. I am not sure why because it would seem the opposite; stressful circumstances surrounding work that many see as stressful and requiring patience and attention to detail that is exhausting. Perhaps it is my need to control things around me and the truth of that venture so often failing that makes the control I feel when quilting so pleasing.
ReplyDeletehello from the cold state of Ohio, finished up your CHallenge quilt of this month..and the Civil War Stars was the first small quilt i made...thanks again Kathy fo all you do.
ReplyDeletei forgot my email..sorry
ReplyDeletepnicklow@columbus.rr.com
Pat
During the 4 years that I stayed home to take care of my elderly father, I learned to quilt and the comfort that it brought both of us was so amazing!! Now that he is gone, I still have the quilt I made for him - with his smell still in the fibers - to comfort me and keep me going!! Thank you for a wonderful giveaway!!
ReplyDeleteSorry, forgot my email address too!! akyoung49@yahoo.com
ReplyDeleteAt the age of 40 I was diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome. Hand stitching and embroidery kept me sane. It was a way of creating useful, beautiful things, which meant I did not feel as useless as I really was. Now, years later, fabric and patchwork gives me enormous joy, which I try to share with others less fortunate as my sewing is now mostly for charity.
ReplyDeleteI spent my evenings with my mother for several years before she passed away. After that I wasn't content to sit in front of the tv so I went to the sewing machine and piecing settled me. I had been quilting for a long time, but it just felt right at that time.
ReplyDeleteI spent my evenings with my mother for several years before she passed away. After that I wasn't content to sit in front of the tv so I went to the sewing machine and piecing settled me. I had been quilting for a long time, but it just felt right at that time.
ReplyDeleteSewing or quilting is a time when I can be alone in my sewing room and just think about the sewing and not on some of life's problems.
ReplyDeleteWhen I was in Germany in the 70's I got pregnant and had my son. My mom (who never sewed) and grandmother made a small quilt with a fisherman appliquéd on it. Since they knew the size of the appliqué I would take pictures of my son as he grew. They were able to judge his size by that. This was long before the internet and instant sharing etc. It was even too expensive to call home very often. No one had cell phones etc. I was able to pass this quilt along to my son when his first child was born. My mom died when my son was only 5.
ReplyDeleteQuilting has been my 'therapy' for a number of years now. When life is difficult, I love getting lost in a quilting project, and seeing it come together into somethingn beautiful.
ReplyDeleteQuilting lowers blood pressure, helps time go by, and rewards us with gifts to keep or share!
This is an easy one for me. I was an Air Force wife for 26 1/2 years (now retired). It seemed like every time I made good friends, it was time to move again. My quilting was my best friend through every move and loss. My brother-in-law just passed away last week and I will be making a memory quilt for his wife. Quilts equal love. Thanks for the giveaway!
ReplyDeleteWhat fun to be with you all, and getting to know you through your stories. Kathleen, thanks so much for the invite. Hugs, Mona
ReplyDeleteYears ago I lost a son, he was born prematurely. Making a baby quilt in soft colours helped me find hope for the future - and courage to have a new baby :)
ReplyDeleteInge C
inge39 (at) live dot dk
j'ai découvert le patchwork en janvier 2011 suite à un arrêt maladie et depuis dès que j'ai un moment de libre, c'est aiguilles, tissus, et encore aiguilles,...et je ne veux surtout pas me soigner !!!!
ReplyDeleteMerci pour ce partage, et bonne chance à toutes !!!
Big kisses
Thank you Kathleen for the opportunity to win that book, it sounds marvelous. Quilting has been a life line for me for more than a decade now. When I was diagnosed with cancer my daughter was only 6 years old and the idea of maybe having to leave her behind was worse than fighting the cancer with a lot of chemo. Quilting Always calmed (and calms) me down and Always makes me see the relativity of things. In a way I owe my life to that beautiful craft. A hug for you from the Netherlands, Anita Westerveld.
ReplyDeleteQuilting helped me thru the pain of my husband's death in 1998 and then the loss of my dog in 2001. Now I'm remarried and quilting is a general stress reducer--no matter what else is going on, quilting can make it seem better.
ReplyDeleteI have dealt with depression for 20 years. Quilting and reading helps me focus. Most of all, it's gets me out of bed to be creative and pleased with what I accomplish.
ReplyDeleteHi Kathleen,
ReplyDeleteQuilting has gotten me through alot of tough times. I have MS and have lost alot of use with my hands as I use to do folkart painting as well with my feet with Nerve trouble. I have always been a sewer. I now have a machine which I just push a button and I can sew for hours. This elevates the pressure on my foot so I can sew all day!Those days when I am down with pain or just tired of not being able to walk very well I go to my sewing room and start sewing and magically I feel better some how! Don't know what I would do without this hobby! thanks for a chance to win this wonderful book. I love quilting books! my email is sbleckie@rogers.com
thanks sally
While I don't quilt, I love looking at quilts and am fascinated by how quilters piece together fabrics in such lovely patterns. I have several quilts that my grandmother made when she was young. One is a sunflower type...yellow stitching on black. Inside each petal is a name stitched in yellow...Thanks for the giveaway.
ReplyDeleteWhile I don't quilt, I love looking at them and studying their patterns. My grandmother left me a sunflower quilt (I call it.) I think six yellow sunflowers are embroidered on black top. Inside each petal is an embroidered name. Thanks for giveaway.
ReplyDeleteQuilting reminds me of my grandmother who made quilts using fabric scraps she had on hand or that we would send to her. I have some of the quilts she made and love seeing fabrics that I had made a favorite outfit from.
ReplyDeleteI got started (seriously) quilting when I was pregnant with our third child. I had issues before the 3rd month and went from limited to bed rest. My SIL raise my 2 girls over that time frame. In and out of the hospital and laying in bed was boring - TV was not fun either (1985) so I decided to cut squares of fabric with scissors, hand sew them and make a baby quilt. I did take it when I would make those trips and stays in the hospital...it would lay across my very large tummy and I would work away. It was finished a few months after our sons birth and I never did use it...it's for me. Inside that quilt are stitched many fears, tears and prayers. Quilting gives me a way of expression without being verbal.
ReplyDeleteQuilting and my quilting friends have gotten me thru many tough times. When I moved here, my quilting ladies made me a small quilt to remember them by. Soon after I got here, I saw a quilt guild party mentioned in the local paper. I didn't know it was for the first ever meeting of this guild. I asked my quilting neighbor to join me, and, we've been members ever since. The ladies I met thru this guild have led me to new, fun, exciting things with my quilting, and have been great friends. If I didn't quilt, and hadn't met these ladies, my life would be the poorer for it.
ReplyDeleteQuilting, is god, terapi for me
ReplyDeleteOnce my son joined the Marine Corps, my quilting rose to the "obessessive level". I handappliqued a Baltimore Album Quilt during the 7 months he was in Afghanistan. It kept me from loosing my mind.
ReplyDeletePatti K
kilcullen@aol.com
in Virginia
Fortunately, I have not had misfortune or sadness for which my quilting comforted me. BUT, I find it so relaxing on a daily basis. It has certainly filled my time with lots of joy during retirement. I remember watching my maternal grandmother clamp quilts to the tops of her high-back chairs, followed by she and a few of her 6 daughters quilting together. That made such an impression on me (preschool age) that I always knew SOMEDAY I would quilt. Now is my time.
ReplyDeleteQuilting is a place to go to just relax and "put away" my problems. When my father and then my mother where at the end of the years, quilting helped my cope with their failing health. Now they are in a far better place with their Heavenly Father. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart."
ReplyDeleteMy quilting is my go-to activity during good times and bad. It calms me, encourages me to keep going, inspires me to be creative, guides me to being productive, and helps me focus when my thoughts are negative or scattered. My quilting friends are the closest friends I've ever had in my life, and I know that our common interest in quilting is the reason why we are a cohesive group.
ReplyDeleteIn short, quilting is the best way I could possibly spend my hours and days.
Thanks for the opportunity to win the book.
Quilting takes me to a different place in mind and soul. No matter what life has put in front of me, I can escape for awhile with fabric thread. My grandmother was a quilter and I remember sitting nearby and cutting out her pieces while she handed sewed. I think of her and all of the women before who have picked up needle and thread. I would love to read more about the pioneer women.
ReplyDeleteCheryl B / IL clbhome7@comcast.net
Hello Kathy, thank you for the opportunity of this giveaway. I've never had the chance to read any of these novels but would love to as I enjoy both history and quilting and these books would be ideal for. Thank you. Kind regards Mandy Currie (mandycurrie@googlemail.com)
ReplyDeleteFor the past few years I have been dealing with health issues. Even so far as a trip to the Mayo Clinic in MN. There are many days when pain limits my ability to sew/quilt. But I look forward to any time I have where I can quilt....and it keeps me hopeful. When I can't quilt, I live vicariously through blogs and watch other quitlers create. When I can't sit at the computer, I read about quilting. I would love to have the opportunity to read this book you are offering. soardkgatfusedotnet
ReplyDeleteThe eternal optimist I really think I have led a charmed life. Yes, I have had relatives die but all died after long, good lives. So I find it hard to come up with some time where quilting got me through a hard time. I haven't thought my life was particularly hard. Then I realized I have moved many a time in my adult life. It's not so bad when you have children at home to help you blend in with school activities. But it is not so easy as an empty nester. But quilting is like magic words. I've joined guilds and immediately found folks who like what I like. Sometimes I have made friends who I still quilt with. Sometimes it was a short acquaintance. But the magic of quilting draws us together and helped me meet folks. What a gift it has been.
ReplyDeleteQuilting and books what a great combination!
ReplyDeleteThere is a connection to the past, and the future…it fulfills the creative drive and calms us at the same time. I love to read books with a quilting theme.
ReplyDeleteMany years ago I had to walk away from my married life and could not take anything large. I chose my sewing machine, my small stash,my quilting and craft books and a photo album. They stayed packed for 5 years or more and then I was blessed with meeting a wonderful person and at last I was able to begin my quilting and embroidery again with a happy heart. Sadly my new partner has passed away but I find that my quilting is my lifesaver and it allows me to drift into a private space, one in which I am totally immersed. My passion is quilting.
ReplyDeleteWhen I was out of work for a year, and having problems finding a job, I made a quilt for one of my former co-workers for her wedding. The picking of fabrics and pattern, the sewing and the hand quilting helped me keep my sanity as I worried about finding another job.
ReplyDeleteSandy A
I love the atmosphere of the quilt shop where I go to regular classes. In addition to quilting at home, I can escape reality for a few hours, visiting with friends, encouraging one another and simply being there for each other. Oh, yes, we learn new techniquesToo! Making prayer quilts has kept me busy, praying for those who are suffering. Baby quilts bring a special joy, as I think of a kittle one snuggling under it.
ReplyDeleteSorry, didn't leave my name to the the above comment. Karla.
ReplyDeleteQuiet quilter Blog
Hey Mona , I am a quilter and love it . Very relaxing . My grandmother taught me how to do my first quilt top . The Dutch Boy . I was going to a shop not to far from and doing classes and it closed up the last of a deceiver . I also love to read . Love your new book . Thanks .
ReplyDeletelizd225(at)gmail(dot)com
I live in Iowa and am currently on the East coast being hospicecnurse for a relative. In down times it is so comforting to do some hand work, it quiets the mind and helps ease the sorrow.
ReplyDeleteQuilting relaxes me. For years, it has been the object that I go to when I am stressed. When I pick up fabric to cut it out, stitch it together, or quilt the layers of the finished quilt;I am focused on creating something and the stress melts away.
ReplyDeletewhenever life gives me struggles I turn to my quilting and prayer. Before I realize it the Lord has helped my struggles become very minor and I have a wonderful quilt or block to enjoy later.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing
janvandermolen@yahoo.com
Quilting helps take my mind off my troubles whether they be large or small. Through quilting, I have made friends who have been very supportive during difficult times.
ReplyDeleteI love to read and books having to do with quilting are some of my favorites. Thanks for the chance to win.
Charlotte
kurtschindler111@gmail.com
I have CMT and quilting is a struggle sometimes, but has been the best thing to ever happen to me . I have made many friends and learned so much . I thank God every day for His blessings.
ReplyDeleteMy journey began about 12 years ago. I lost an 18 year old son in a MVA. We have 8 children altogether, thank goodness for them for they were my reason for struggling through. I worked outside the home and after about 3 months returned to my job. I rarely made it an entire day at work and started piecing our other children comfort quilts out of their brothers jeans. Lost my self in those comfort quilts and building a relationship with God. I have continued this wonderful pastime of piecing and quilting and feel very blessed to be able to. Finding your group Kathy, has been wonderful. My favorite read of the days now, thank you for your wonderful group, books, quilts and talent. I would love to be considered for this great book giveaway.
ReplyDeleteJennifer
stonehousequilting@frontier.com
The last few quilts I have made have been very freeing.I just start sewing pieces together not knowing what they will become and I don't have to think much about what I'm doing.No pattern just sewing.It has been very relaxing.It helps,my depression in the winter when there is no sun. judy j
ReplyDeleteI find sewing is a great escape from any stresses of life, especially hand sewing. My expression is that it is "soothing to my soul".
ReplyDeleteI began quilting in 2005 because I have an incurable form of leukemia and need to stay in a lot during cold and flu season. Previously, I had just used my sewing machine to shorten hubby's jeans. It was one of the best things I ever did....not only is it a wonderful craft; but it has led me to form some new friendships with wonderful other quilters. It didn't take long for me to learn to enjoy quality fabrics and gather a stash lol.
ReplyDeleteReading is another of my hobbies, so would love to win a copy of this book. Have enjoyed reading all of Jennifer Chiaverini's Elm Creek books in the past.
When my father passed, I quilted a Baltimore Album quilt that was a tribute to my parents. My mother sat next to me as I hand quilted it. It helped us both remember my dad and forever keep him in our memories.
ReplyDeleteQuilting has been my refuge since I finished college, so my whole adult life. The first thing I bought with my pay from my first real job was a sewing machine, using 90 days same as cash financing for a $180 machine. It's always where I turn for enjoyment, stress relief, relaxation, creativity....most recently when we relocated our family 10 hrs away from the state we've always lived. Quilting & the wonderful people who go with it are a Godsend.
ReplyDeletei have several serious health issues. my 36 year old daughter and an only child, quit her job in another state and moved in to take care of me. tragically, just four days after she moved in, she died in my arms from a blood clot to her lung. she was not only my daughter, but also my best friend. when she moved in we made a deal, she would plant me a flower garden and i would teach her how to piece and quilt by hand, but it didnt happen. if it werent for my faith, quilting charity quilts, and reading, i would not be here today. thank you for a great giveaway. babscorbitt@gmail.com
ReplyDelete