Monday, May 6, 2013

May musings

Preparing for Quilt Market in Portland...quilts are 'resting' in loose lumps on the bed under Molly's supervision, of course.  They have been in the suitcase, so a quick plump in the dryer and a nap were in order before they are flattened again and packed for shipping.
I would prefer to carry the quilts myself, but just in case something happens with my mom, the quilts will be there for a Schoolhouse presentation whether I go or not.
 
Do you think Fed Ex will ship a cat? How do cats know you have just taken something out of the dryer? I moved her once, left to get another load, and there she is again.  Surely cat hair can't be seen from the audience, right?
 
Mom was placed under the care of Hospice last month.  She is staying with me most of the time. It is a pleasure to care for her, but we both have had to adapt to the situation.  Best part, is kissing her goodnight and telling her I love her and that I'll see her in the morning, and then each morning getting a good morning hug when I get her out of bed as I rub her back to ease the back pain from a long night's sleep.
I've tried, as much as possible, to continue a normal routine, teaching, working one day a week at the quilt shop, and travel for programs and workshops, and sewing. Well, not getting much sewing done.  One thing I'm doing a lot of, though, is cooking! I use to complain about eating out too much and now, I long for a dinner 'out'.
I'm ok, everyday is a new day.  I make lots of lists of things to do, usually losing the list.  There is a lot of paper gathering around this house!  Notes and records from nurses for us caregivers, bills, yuck, a journal of mom's day...now that is cool...something the caregivers started a year ago when Daddy passed away.
 
Speaking of Daddy, he helped me identify this quilt as Lizzie named it.
This is the antique inspiration hanging over my cupboard door.
 
I had asked him if he knew anything about a bird trap, he said yes, it wasn't sucessful in a very emphatic way, but did draw me two pictures of this scrap wood structure boys built to trap a bird.
What Dad drew was a Courthouse Steps block. I love the quilt I made for the book.

 Bird Trap
 
 
If any of you are going to attend Quilt Market in Portland I'm giving a Schoolhouse presentation on Lizzie's Legacy at 1:55 on Thursday, May 16. I've never been to Portland, Oregon...Market should be fun and inspiring.
 
Just for grins, and this doll does make me smile, here is a sweet doll given to me at the retreat I taught in March.  I'm calling her Lizzie.  She is dressed in one of my favorite pieces from my Wrappers collection.
 
I'm spending a lot of time thinking these days, musing really. Reflecting on mom's story and the events she has seen in her 93 years.
This time with her is precious, as everyday should be anyway, a treasure to behold with fond remembrances of yesterday and wonder at what tomorrow will bring.
 
Until next time...
~My best,
Betsy
 
 

9 comments:

  1. This May's musings are peaceful... even though you are still busy busy busy, there is calmness.... you probably have worked hard to get to that point. I am happy for you. On to tomorrow....

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  2. Betsy....thinking of you and so glad to read this post .
    love the story behind birdtrap as much as I love the quilt. its on my every growing list...the doll is just adorable, oh I hope Lizzie makes you smile every time you look at her. Enjoy Portland and I can't wait to hear all about it!
    Kathie

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  3. Heartwarming post, Besty. So glad you are able to spend each day with your Mom....those are precious times.
    Enjoyed the story of the bird trap and seeing your quilt. Enjoy your time it Portland - wish I could be there!

    Judy

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  4. I just finished reading Lizzie's Legacy and just loved it. I especially loved the story about the bird trap and your dad's drawing! Glad you and your mom are adjusting and happy that you get to spend time with her. Hugs and prayers to you both. Have a great time at market!

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  5. What a wonderful blog post. You are a very good daughter to your Mom. Just know that she appreciates all that you do. You are so blessed to have her with you at this time in both your lives.
    Love you,
    Bertha

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  6. Betsy, you are so often in my thoughts. You will look back on these days with your mother with such good memories. Enjoy Portland - wish I were going to be there but I will be in Disneyland listening to my grandchildren playing in a band. Another opportunity for good memories!
    Love your new book!
    Mary Ann

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  7. I always look forward to your posts. The bird trap story is great and so is the quilt. Have fun in Portland, it's a great place.

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  8. A lovely post Betsy!!! How nice to be able to spend these precious days with your Mum!!! I might add too, that I recently purchased your latest book! It is a wonderful collection of quilts, but also the story, I couldn't put it down, and read it in one sitting!!! Thankyou.......

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  9. You're very fortunate to have these days with your mother. My mother was placed in Hospice Mar 20, 2013 and passed away Mar 22. I'm glad she's not suffering but miss her every day.
    Hope you are able to make it to Portland.

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