Back Live and with a Winner!

My momma always said,  "Life is like a box of chocolates.  You never know what your're gonna get."

                                                                                 ~Forrest Gump~

Momma was right.  You just never know.

The past weeks (and those yet to come) have certainly not been what I ever expected to happen in my life.

The stitches from my right eye have been removed, and the surgeon is pleased.

I cannot see clearly yet, so the amount of vision preserved is unknown.  We are grateful for any amount.

Double vision remains, and will continue until all surgeries and healing are completed.

I am becoming fairly good at doing most things with just one eye.

Well, I have managed to run into a few walls, or miss the countertop when setting down a plate, but I could have easily done that with two good eyes.  I just now have a valid excuse!

Surgery on the left eye is scheduled for next week, Wednesday, July 14.

Surgery and recovery will be a little more difficult, since I am so fresh from the first surgery.  However, we decided it best to keep moving forward without hesitation.

Words can never express my gratitude for all the prayers offered and kindness bestowed upon me and my family.  The cards, emails and surprises always arrived when I needed them most.  

My body may ache, but my soul has never known such peace, warmth and love.

I am truly blessed.

The photographs are decadent artisan chocolates from some of my sweetest friends.

I only wish we could share them in person!  They are deeeelicious!

 

And now for the winner of my Sew Serendipity give away!

Nancy of Nancy's Couture is the lucky recipient!

You may contact me at bessiemaryblog at gmail dot com, and provide a mailing address.

Congratulations and enjoy!

The Greatest Journey of All

Daddy's "engineer" cap, journal and photograph.  The photograph was taken on a train, naturally!

Eight years ago today, my father took his greatest journey.

Daddy developed a love for trains in the early 1960's, and it grew only larger and deeper over the next 40 years. 

Daddy not only rode trains, he listened to trains!

You might pass our typical 3 bedroom brick house, located in your average middle class neighborhood, and double check to make sure you were not standing on the platform of a depot somewhere.

Recordings of actual trains were known to thunder past the front door or through the windows every now and then.  More than likely, my sister and I were barricaded in our bedrooms attempting to drown out his "music" with our radios blasting the top tunes of the day.  Mother, as mothers do, learned to tune us all out.

Our family vacations were always by train -- even if the itinerary first demanded that we fly or drive to board a train to our final destination.

Yes, Daddy loved his trains!

This is his handwritten log of his railroad travels, beginning in November 1964.

Daddy was an accountant.  Columns, ledgers, numbers and keeping records were his idea of fun.

The Number of Family column was almost always filled with the number 4.

 That would later change to 2, as my sister and I left for colleges, careers and marriages.
The destinations also began to extend overseas.

Following Mother's death in 1994, the number changed to 1, or more often "H" for Harley.

Daddy was on an excursion to Canada and Alaska when our country was attacked on 9-11.

The trip was cut short and the tour group remained in Denali Park, Alaska for a few days. 

On September 13, when commercial flights were again in the skies, Daddy flew home.  It was his last trip -- train or otherwise.

Over the course of years, in the United States and abroad, Daddy rode 463 trains, covering 120, 647 miles.

On that day eight years ago, I knew he was preparing for another journey.  I heard a train whistle outside his hospice window.  He climbed aboard for the greatest journey ever.  One that reunited him with my mother and sister.  Destination Heaven.

I thought I missed you then, I never knew how much I would miss you now.

Life is like a journey taken on a train, with a pair of travelers at each window pane.
I may sit beside you all the journey through, or I may sit elsewhere never knowing you.
But if Fate should mark me to sit at your side, let's be pleasant travelers --
it's so short a ride.
A writing found in my father's desk.  Author unknown.

Different Dolly Stitching

Is your heart a puddle?

I was smittened the moment I laid eyes on her almost 20 years ago at a local fundraiser.

Needless to say, she came home with me!

I recently shared some stitching I did for dolls, here and here.

But this takes dolly stitching to a whole 'nuther level!

Have you ever seen such a cute little nose -- and it is all created with needle and thread.

Her big brown eyes, eyelashes and eyebrows are carefully hand embroidered.

Subtle coloring adds her sweet little pink lips and a rosy glow to her cheeks.

Even her little hand,

and ears are completely molded and shaped by stitching.

The only thing not stitched?

There was no sign of a label or artist signature.

It makes me sad that I do not know who to credit for this creation that has brought so many smiles to my face over the years.

 I realize that I do not always "sign" my creations, either.

Maybe this person, so talented with needle, thread and fabric, did not care as much about the recognition, but more about the joy shared with others.

One more thing is missing:  a name.

Any ideas?

**Surgery Update, July 5**

I wrote and scheduled this post prior to my recent surgery, but have received many inquiries for a health update. 

Thank you so much for wrapping me, my family, my surgeon and other caregivers in your thoughts and prayers.  They were very much felt and appreciated.

I am home, but must continue to refrain from most activities for a few more days.  I spend my days and nights on our family room sofa, as I must remain in an upright position.  Not sure I will know what to do when I can actually lie down to sleep!

Frozen pea compresses for my eye have become my best new friend, while TV and CDs occupy my mind and attempt to prevent boredom.  I would much rather be outside in the sun or stitching.

So, I hope some of you are doing that for me!

The past few months of limited and double vision prepared me well for these days of vision with mostly just one eye.

The swelling in my right eye is subsiding, and I know that some of my vision was preserved.  To what extent, and for how long, remains to be seen.

My right eye and side of head are still swollen, very discolored, sore and just downright ugly!  Although improving, I have a fairly constant headache. 

One other risk of the surgery was facial paralysis or numbness.  From the amount of pain I have felt, I think that risk is small.  In this case, pain was a blessing!

Stitches will be removed on Tuesday morning.  More information, including a schedule for surgery on the left eye may be learned at that time.

There are still many hurdles to clear, but I am grateful for the small steps thus far.

Thank you again for your care, concern and support. 

Fourth of July (Reprint)

What the Flag Means

The Flag is many things.  It is a mark of identification of ships at sea and of armies in the field.   It is a means of communication.  When you see our Flag in front of a home, it says for all the world to read, "Here lives a family that is American in spirit as well as in name."  The Flag is a mirror, reflecting to each person his own ideals and dreams.  It is a history.  Its thirteen stripes and fifty stars embrace a record written greatly during these years since 1776.  It is a mark of price in a great word -- the word "American".  It is an aspiration of what small children want their lives to be.  It is a memory at the end of life of all that life has been.  It is a ribbon of honor for those who have served it well -- in peace and war.  It is a warning not to detour from the long road that has brought our country and its people to a degree of prosperity and happiness never even approached under any other banner.

                                                                                                             ~Edward F. Hutton~

The flag, in the photo above, covered the casket of my father five years ago next week.  He loved the Fourth of July, perhaps because he knew so well how much it meant to serve this country in time of war.  As we celebrate this holiday, let us not forget all the brave men and women who have served, are serving and will serve.

My father would often take my sister and me to the fireworks stands, which were much more plentiful in those days.  Then, it was to the country roads outside the city limits of our hometown.  However, one year, a roman candle misfired and burned my hand.  Mother banned family fireworks after that.

Years later, I rediscovered the joy of fireworks through the eyes of my young son.  We would spread our quilt on grassy knolls among those of other friends and neighbors, and wisely leave the detonation of the fireworks to the professionals.  Each sparkling explosion was proclaimed to be the best one yet, but proved never to be quite as spectacular as the one to come!

May we apply that same line of thinking to all of our days, and to the days of our country.  Our yesterdays were great, our today is even better, and may our tomorrows be spectacular!

Happy 4th of July!

Happy Birthday, United States of America!

~Originally posted July 4, 2007 at Jan's Jots

 

Headbands for Healing

For once I managed to think ahead!

Following surgery, my eyes will be bandaged and require daily applications of ointment.

I am thinking gauze, adhesive tape, ointment and hair do not mix, nor make for a very pretty picture!

I quickly remembered the cute headbands Heather Bailey shared on her blog.

So, I quickly went to work.  I was able to whip up four in no time at all!

 I selected several lightweight floral lawns and one pima cotton microcheck.  I thought the lighter weight and softness would make the knot at the back a little more comfortable when resting or reclining.  I considered omitting the tie, and just using the elastic, but decided the tie really added a special and stylish touch.

Heaven knows I will need some style while recuperating!

  I followed Heather's instructions, except for two differences.

 

I used a technique that I often use when stitching curves in lightweight fabrics. 

Instead of clipping into the seam allowance, before turning right side out,

I stitch 1/8" away from the original seamline, using a shortened stitch length.

I then use my serrated scissors to trim right next to that outer row of stitching.

This makes a tiny and even seam allowance.

The outer row of stitching provides not only a guide for trimming, but will also help prevent the seam from raveling.  With such a fine seam, it is not necessary to clip into the seam allowance.  The piece may now be turned right side out and pressed. 

The curves will be smooth and perfect!

With the finer lawns, I did apply a very lightweight woven fusible interfacing down the center of the main headband piece.  I found that this added a little stability to the headbands.

I am thinking a dosage of lovely Liberty of Lawn and other delightful fabrics may be the best medicine, yet! 

This is such a quick and fun project!  The ease of stitching makes it perfect for beginners.

If you have daughters or granddaughters that have outgrown smocked dresses, I bet they might still find a use for some cute and fun headbands!

Just another way to stitch a little love into their wardrobe.

You may download the pattern for your personal use at Heather's bog,

Hello, My Name is Heather

Find it under Free Patterns, in the right hand sidebar.

Sew Serendipity and a Surprise!

Kay Whitt's new book is just as charming and delightful as she is!

                                                    
                                                                                  Originally posted at Sew Serendipity Blog.

Kay's book, and several new patterns, debuted at the recent Spring Quilt Market in Minneapolis.

Most of you probably know that I pretty much swore off sewing for myself, focusing instead on sewing for babies and children.  Their lumps and bumps are much more sweet, and less infuriating, to try and cover or camoflauge!

Kay's book just might make me revisit that decision!

                                                                          Reprinted with Permission from Sew Serendipity.

I love the Ruffled Skirt!  Love may not even be strong enough!

Kay selected a large scale floral, a bold geometric and a solid silk.  The attention to detail is simply amazing!

Did I mention that I love this?

                                                                             Reprinted with Permission from Sew Serendipity

Then there is the Silk and Linen Jacket.  Not only does it make a great pairing with the previously mentioned Ruffle Skirt, but I can also see it paired with jeans and a t-shirt.  Just the thing to make you feel like a girl!

Feminine and flirty and fabulous!

                                                                            Reprinted with Permission from Sew Serendipity

Kay saved the best for last, in my humble opinon!  The very last, but definitely not the least, of the eighteen projects is the Classic Tailored Jacket.

This knee-length jacket has a retro feel, and tailored detailing of double topstitching and lots of buttons on the collar, sleeves and down the front!

The first portion of the book deals with measuring and adjusting the fit, tools of the trade, and sewing techniques.  Notice that wonderful spiral binding that allows the book to rest flat for hands free use?  Wonderful!

Construction for each project is explained with detailed illustrations and helpful hints!

The pattern pieces are all stored in a handy envelope at the back of the book.

Thank you, Kay, for inspiring us to create

"Fresh and Pretty Designs to Make and Wear"!

Please visit Kay at her website or blog to learn more!

Now for the surprise!

Leave a message and you could win your own copy of Kay's book!

One book goes to one lucky reader!

To be eligible, leave a comment before Midnight CDT, July 2.

Winner will be announced next week.

Good luck!

Comments now closed for chance to win.

One Last Look

* I am truly touched by each of your comments, prayers and support.  Thank you so very much.*

What if you were suddenly informed that you might lose all, or most, of your vision?

What would you want to see, one more time, before your eyes dim?

Unfortunately, that is a question I have asked myself, as doctors recently informed me that I was at risk of losing my eyesight*.

Some might say they want to gaze upon the faces of loved ones.

Those are already etched upon my heart -- even the faces of those not often seen.

Some might say a beautiful garden.

I will still be able to smell the roses, feel velvety blossoms and rough textured bark, and walk barefoot through grass that tickles my toes.

No, I would want to see home one last time.

Home is Amarillo, Texas.

It is where I was born and raised.  It is where my parents lie in eternal rest.

But what I loved most was probably what others would find least pleasant.

It is flat.

Flatter than your kitchen table flat!

The flat land stretching out as far as one can see is what welcomed me home from chaotic college days, from the rat race of young adult life in a huge city, from the disappointment of a failed first marriage, from the tiring days of parenthood. 

It even welcomed me home to care for a mother battling cancer, and later an elderly father.

Nothing, as far as the eye could see, except sky meeting earth.

But in that first glimpse, my mind would clear.  I could breathe.  It did not matter what I had left behind, or what news might greet me.

There was peace and a serenity in that flat land.

It was home and beautiful to me.

What else would I want to see one last time?

It is somewhat similar.  Only this time, it is sky meeting water.

As a girl raised in the dry prairies of Texas, I did not have too much experience with oceans and beaches.

But once discovered, I was head over heels!

Some may find the ocean intimidating.

I find it just the opposite.

I find it empowering, yet calming.

It makes me realize just how big my God really is. 

And lastly, I would want to see Christmas.

Don't we all love to see the splendor and beauty of the holidays?

Whether it is the memory of our childhood holidays, or those made with our children, it is one of life's greatest joys.

It is ornaments and decorations lovingly passed down through the ages.  It is lights that twinkle and candles that glow, spreading cheer in the shortest days of the year.

It is smiles on everyone's faces and reassurance of good and joy and peace.

So, as I prepare for surgery intended to save and preserve my current vision,

I will cling to these images.

I will remember the flat beauty of home and breathe.

I will remember the ocean and know that God is in charge.

I will remember the faith, hope and joy that was born at Christmas.

I will believe that the Greatest Physician will guide the hands of my surgeon and heal my eyes.

And in the meantime, I ask that each of you do all that I cannot:

stitch, create, decorate, appreciate and enjoy these sunny summer days.

My family and I covet your prayers.

My greatest prayer is that I will see you here again --

soon.

In the meantime, I have scheduled a few posts.  You may not even realize I am gone!

So, what would be your last thing to see?


*My vision problems are complications of Graves Disease, a form of hyperthyroidism.  It has caused my optic muscles and tissues to enlarge, placing tremendous pressure on my optic nerves.  If left untreated, the nerves would continue to be compressed, die and render me sightless.  During surgery, portions of my eye socket walls will be removed to provide room for the enlarged muscles and tissue.  This should prevent additional damage to my optic nerves.  Each eye will be done during separate surgeries over the coming weeks.  Additional surgeries to correct double vision may be necessary later.
The first surgery is scheduled for 8:oo am, June 30.