Thanks for stopping by for our weekly Quirky Question—where the question’s just for fun, your answer’s always welcome, and you could win an eBook for free!
(Make-in-a-day “Leaf Chain” table topper by Cathy Wierzbicki; get the ePattern for $4.99.)
Since 1863, when president Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day during the Civil War, family and friends have gathered together each year in November in a sprit of gratitude. As we head toward the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s so nice to take a break with those you know best and share stories about the past, present, and future. Which brings us to this week’s quirky question:
Looking back on 2012, what person, place, or event are you most thankful for?
Post your answer in the comments before noon (PST) on Monday, November 26, for your chance to win. The winning comment will be posted on Wednesday, November 28, along with the next question.
Last week’s question was, “What possession—fabric, fiber, or otherwise—are you especially sentimental about, and why do you keep it?” Here’s the winning response:
“My Nana knit the most glorious sweaters. Her specialty was a bulky fisherman knit—and she inserted cables and bobbles and patterns and twists—frequently without a pattern (she had memorized them)—and often ‘with her eyes closed.’ Her needles were warped from where she tucked them under her arms. When she passed away, many of her children and grandchildren wore their ‘Nana Sweaters’ to the funeral. And when my mother passed away last year—her four daughters divided up her ‘Nana Sweaters’—getting that special bit of Nana AND that special bit of Mom. So my NanaMom sweater—well patched and frayed in spots—is very special… and worn whenever I need a hug. Even if it is in August!”
Last week’s winning comment was written by Regina. Congratulations, Regina! Look for an email about how to get your free eBook.
There are two women who have had a big impact in my life. My mother in love and a sweet precious aunt. They have loved and supported me through many many years. On April 17th, my mother in love passed away, and two very short days later, my aunt joined her. I am SO thankful for these women who taught me so much about hospitality, sharing, wisdom, but mostly, unconditional love. I’m not sure many people are as blessed to have had women who made such a positive impact in their lives.
—Jocelyn on November 21, 2012In April of this year I had successful cancer surgery.
—Karen on November 21, 2012I am ever grateful for my brilliant surgeon, the caring and thoughtful nurses, and my wonderful neighbors and friends, who together got me through this extremely frightening experience.
Most of all, my sweet Husband, who was a rock despite his own fears, and who anticipated my emotional and physical needs for months, pre and post-op.Thank you, my love.
I am thankful for my husband and all he does for me which allows me to put so much energy into my quilt ministry and my quilt business.
—Jeanine on November 21, 2012I am thankful for a wonderful mother who is taking care of me during my illness here in 2012.
—MarciaW on November 21, 2012Looking back this year, I’m most thankful for us moving to Washington State. I now consider this area "home" and am so grateful for the beauty and the opportunity that came with this change.
—Jean on November 21, 2012I am most THANKFUL for my family and friends, especially that my parents are still with us. Everyone has been relatively healthy all things considered which is a true blessing.
—Heidi Colville on November 21, 2012Looking back on 2012, I am thankful for the wonderful committee I was on for the CBCF CIBC Run for the Cure. Everyone made going to meetings something I wanted to do as opposed to something I had to do!
—Debbie Constable on November 21, 2012I am thankful for so many things in the past year – too numerous to list. My quilting friends who make my life so creative and wonderful are a big part of that list. I am also thankful for being lucky enough to have a good retirement that I am able to afford the gasoline to visit the bestest part of my life – my son and his family. I moved here to be with my two grandchildren and then they transferred for work. Luckily, it is only 4 hours away and I can visit with them once per month. They bring such joy to my life and while I miss the every day I was used to, they are still a major part of my life.
—Janet on November 21, 2012I am thankful for President Obama who tries to lead this country in the midst of a lot hateful reherotic. May God uphold him and his family in the years to come.
—Barbara Cissne on November 21, 2012The United States of America’s Military!!!
Hooray for the Red, White and Blue!! Thanks for your Service to one and all. I appreciate your steadfast vigiliance keeping us all safe.
—vickie van dyken on November 21, 2012I am most thankful for my family…I have 3 sons aged 35, 33 and 23 with my wonderful husband. My oldest has a 10 year old son and in January his wife gave birth to a beautiful baby girl! My Granddaughter, Sophie is the first girl in my immediate family and she has inspired so many sewing and quilting ideas. My sewing machine has been quite busy.
I am so thankful for her and my sons, their families and my 82 year old mother that has come to live with us. She is so happy to be with us as she gets to see her Great-grandkids so often. Not to say that this past year was easy…both my oldest son and his wife were laid off and with a new baby, things were tough for them, but with belt tightening and faith, they came through. My son got a job in Sept and Daughter in Law started a photography business and is doing well even booked a wedding in December. Life is good when I have my family and a million sewing, quilty, crafty ideas dancing in my head!
—Elizabeth Morella on November 21, 2012Although I have 3 healthy children I am thankful for my 4th named "Heaven"…my stillborn son who passed on October 28th (at 18 weeks). He gave me the push to be the better mom for the New Year and not take things for granted. He has shown me that family really matters and you need to say thank you and I love you many times. He has proven that hugs do matter and you can’t give enough or receive enough of them. He has inspired me to focus on my dreams and not just be mom but take time out for me. My goal for 2013 is now to go after my dream and name it a Touch of Heaven. Early in the pregnancy I was asked if I had a name picked out and I said it will be Heaven (and at the time I just wanted something different and unique). Now, looking back, I think my spiritualty was really saying prepare for what is going to happen next in your life. My four year old doesn’t quite understand why but every night we now pray for "Heaven" in Heaven.
—Deone on November 21, 2012My husband is what I am most thankful for this year.
—Loisjean on November 21, 2012I am a wife of 47 years, a mother of 5, grandmother of 11 — I have had so very many reasons to be thankful for many years. In January of this year, I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung Cancer — I have never smoked and can think of no exposure that would explain this. After two chemo treatments which were not working, my doctor put me on a recently released medication which targets a particular gene in the cancer cells. Based on my last three scans I am "in remission" which, according to everything I have read about lung cancer, does not happen — stage 4 patients usually have less than 6 months to live.
—Mary Fannin on November 21, 2012This year I am not only thankful for the love and consideration of my husband, children, and grandchildren, but am very thankful for my life.
I am thankful for those who passed through my life and left this year. My dearest friend passed on Mother’s Day(age 59)and my sister-in-law passed on Labor Day(age56. These wonderful ladies brought joy, shared tears and laughter and were awesome friends. They could be counted on to pick me up when I was down. I am thankful that I had a chance to know them, and my life has been enriched because of them.
—Vickie - Tucson on November 21, 2012While there are many things I am thankful for, the #1 on the list is my wonderful spouse who cared for me while I was recovering from serious surgery. He came to eat with me twice a day (hospital food), made sure I had needed snacks, washed my clothes every day so that I was sure to have fresh clothes after therapy, and held my hand when the going got rough.
—Nadine Medlin on November 21, 2012When I finally came home, he continued all those tasks, including cooking, cleaning, etc. It was a long two months but all though these times, he was a real champ. He even bought quilting magazines and all the class lists from the local quilt shop, helped get me to my quilting room and returned me to my bed before I got over tired, in spite of my protests. I am very lucky and very thankful for this generous and loving man.
In 1973 I donated a kidney to my dad after he had total renal failure. In 2011, my remaining kidney began to fail, and by May of 2012, I was close to renal,failure myself. On May 12, 2012, I received a call from Baylor All Saints Hospitalmin Ft. Worth, Texas, saying a kidney was available for transplant. The transplant was done on May 13, and I have made a miraculous recovery. I am so grateful to the family of the donor who, in the middle of their grief at his sudden death, could find it in their hearts to agree to donate his organs. I thank God every day for this second chance at life.
—Estela Dela Fuente on November 21, 2012Of all the persons, places, or things that I’m most grateful, I rank my family above all. There is nothing in the world better than loving relationships and joyful memories.
—VickiGene on November 21, 2012I am grateful that this year’s presidential election was not a reprise of 2000. I am grateful for a new move an a change in work.
—Andy K on November 21, 2012I am so grateful for the nurses and staff at Joe DiMaggio’s Children’s Hospital in Hollywood, Florida. my grandson was born on Aug.1 at a different hosp. he was rushed from that hospital during the nite to JDCH. The nurses who came to get him, stayed with him until after his 1st surgery. We are so blessed to have had the surgeon we did. The care a diedication is like nothing I’ve ever seen before. My grandson is now 3 months old and doing well. He still has another surgery to endure but he will be fine. Thanksgiving will be a very special celebration!!! By the way it was my quilting projects that kept me focused and strong for my daughter, so she could be strong for her new baby. Wishing all of you a thankful, happy and thanksgiving.
—Maureen on November 21, 2012I’m truly thankful my husband survived both his operations and our daughter survived hers. God has been truly good to us and I cannot praise Him any more than what I already have.
Keep smiling,
—Lynnita Shipman on November 21, 2012I am thankful for my darling daughters, Erica and Sarah. I am a divorced mom who has had my fair share of up’s and down’s. This said my girls have always encouraged means never once gave made me feel insignificant or sad that I was not able to afford items that their friends received. My daughter’s
—Lydia on November 21, 2012have worked since High School and both have received their Diplomas, Associate’s Degree, and their Bachlor’s
Degree and are still attending school for their Masters Degree. This has all been accomplished with me providing them with all the love I can give and guidance. I am truly thankful for my children.
My husband is my choice….he has lost his father, mother, and twin brother in the last 2 years. He is remarkable, strong, giving, and loves me and our sons and grandsons with all his heart.
—marjorie on November 21, 2012Looking back in 2012…I am most thankful for family…I took a tumble and fractured my left lateral tibial plateu…my daughter set up a place in her home and has me staying with her and her man….she has had to help me bath take medicines…and give me injections…also taking into consideration my special diet that I must follow…they have gone way above what is expected of family. My man has taken time off work to take me to appointments and drive me to my Culture night teachings that I do…..also I have been able to be extremely creative with my time …so a home made Christmas this year coming up. There is always a silver lining in things. Also my son has had a rough year up till a few months ago and is now living with his fiancé and new puppy and on his way…this I am very thankful for.
—Shirley on November 21, 2012I am thankful for the Americans in all states who voted, some standing in lines over EIGHT HOURS LONG, to re-elect President Barack Obama. This good & hard working, honest, caring man has been subjected to harsh personal criticisms, many racially motivated, & opposition like no other President since perhaps Abraham Lincoln. He has earned a 2nd term to finish the nation’s work, for all Americans, especially the workers & those who often have no voice. It would have been a dismal day, indeed, to see him turned out by a man who tried to scam his way into the office by masking his true intentions & changing his positions like most quilters buy new fabric (or at least THINK about it!) God Bless the U.S.A.!
—Georgia Koenig on November 21, 2012All of these responses are so inspiring and wonderful reminders that we all have so much to be thankful for. In addition to family and health, I am thankful this year for my daughter and 2 grandsons moving into their own home. We waiting 7.5 years for this to happen, while they lived with me and dear hubby. And they are only 3 houses away! Perfect answer to prayer and totally worth waiting for!!
—Lorraine on November 21, 2012There are 2 events that I am most thankful for in 2012. I was able to be present at the birth of both my grandchildren. My grandson, Camden, was born on 3/22 and my granddaughter, Scarlett, was born on 5/1. Giving birth to your children is a wonderful experience but seeing your grandchildren being born is a precious gift to cherish. It confirms that life will go on long after I have left this earth. To hold and touch and kiss these babies brings such joy!
—Darcey Tredway on November 21, 2012There are always so many things to be thankful for. Top of the list is my recovery from cancer which means that I can enjoy my grandchildren. I have yet to see the 6 month old but got to see the 4 year old this past August and the 13 month old almost daily. When I am weary/achy and discouraged, my 13 month old grandson gives me a beautiful smile and allows me to cuddle with him (something he doesn’t particularly like). I am thankful that I am still able to quilt and knit, even though I sometimes do it with Alejandro sitting in my lap, handing me fabric. Most of all, I thank the Lord for being with me….
—Elaine West on November 21, 2012I have recently returned back to my home state of Michigan after teaching in Arizona for a few years. I’m thankful I was unable to find a teaching job back here in the "mitten". "What?" You say! The inability to secure employment has allowed me to become more proficient in my quilting abilities and allows me the time and freedom to be able to create. I have had to become diligent in my fabric thrifty-ness and being made to do without some of those sought after and drooled about patterns and fabrics. It has opened my own eyes about recycling even the smallest of cuttings and how I can reuse them in another future quilt.
—Colette D. on November 21, 2012I have had so much fun with my 5 grandchildren this year. They keep me on my toes. We have lots of parties with our family and the kids always look forward to them. Right now I am making 5 pairs of pj’s. After 14 years, I am shocked that they still want them. They get them on Christmas Eve and I take pictures of them. Their ages are 9-14. So many things to be thankful for.
—Marsha Nelson on November 21, 2012I’m most thankful for my Heavenly Father that keeps us all cradled in His arms. As we all know there is no one perfect in this world and thats what we all strive to be. I’ve had ups and downs in my life and ended up loosing 7 babies before birth. Then God sent me a Doctor that "fixed " the problem and I was able to give birth to 2 beautiful daughters. They have grown up to be great mothers of children and leaders in our Church. Without faith in my Heavenly Father and the wonderful doctor He sent me , I would be so empty. I thank God every day for my "special" blessings , so many that I don’t even know about.
—Eileene on November 21, 2012I would have to say I am most grateful for my grandchildren, but especially for my granddaughter who was born in March of 2012. My grandchildren are a reafirmation that life goes on and now as a grandmother I have time to enjoy the little things that I didn’t when their dad was born.
—Kris Jacobson on November 21, 2012My grandaughter especially as I had three boys and 2 grandsons and I really did not expect to have a grandaughter. They are so much more fun to buy clothes for.
I’m thankful for our family and being 7 years cancer free.
—Mary on November 21, 2012I sew with a group called Threads of Love, making preemie items for 3 NICU in our city. Last Jan when my last grandson was born, he spent 4days in the NICU of one of the hospitals that we sew for. I got to see first-hand how much the items we make a difference in the lives of these babies. It forever changed my enthusiam to sew for this group! But the best part was on the last day he was in the unit, his mother and I found him wrapped in a blanket I had made over a year ago; long before we knew there was going to be another grandbaby. The nurses that were present in the unit couldn’t believe what was happening when I told them that I had made the blanket and the many babies that had already been wrapped in it before Josh was, because I could tell that the blanket had been washed many times. We are celebrating this Thanksgiving because we have healthy little boy who is 9mo old and can give his Nonnie the sweetest smiles! And we keep in our hearts and prayers, babies and their families whose outcomes have been less fortunate, because we know we could very easily could have been walking in their shoes
—Chris on November 21, 2012Mucho les agradecería si me toman en cuenta para enviarme sus patrones, pues me reuno dos veces por semana con un grupo de amigas, cuyo pasatiempo preferido es el QUILTING.
(Translation: Much appreciate if I take them into account to send your patterns, because I meet twice a week with a group of friends, whose favorite pastime is QUILTING.)
—Ruth Umana Guillen on November 21, 2012I am thankful for my husband of almost 45 years. He is always there for me, never complains about how much I spend on fabric, always holds up the quilts so I can take pictures of them and enjoys seeing what I am working on at the time. He is kind and considerate and I am one very lucky gal to have him for my husband.
—Sandy Martin on November 21, 2012I am so thankful for my Mother-in-Law. She has lived with us for the past two and a half years, and while not always easy, usually fun. My own mother has serious dementia and showed signs of it early in my life. My mother-in-law came into my life 35 years ago, taught me to cook, taught me the finer points of keeping house and became the mother I would choose if I could choose my own mother. When I got married, she truly didn’t lose a son but gained a daughter. She is inspirational and it doesn’t hurt that we regularly share a glass of wine.
—Cathy Kind on November 21, 2012I am most thankful that after many, many years of not even speaking that my first husband and I are trying to be civil to each other and even be friends – yes to the END. We have two children and three grandchildren. We divorced in January 1998 and walked our daughter down the aisle in 2004 without saying a word to each other. We each are certainly different people now and have no desire to replay the non-pleasant parts of the past. Last week he was at my home and I showed him some quilts I have made. He commentd that I need to keep them – they are very nice. Wow! A couple of years of ago my daughter’s older son asked me why I wasn’t married to his mommy’s daddy. I had no explanation to give to a four year old. I still don’t have an answer for him as a six year old. Now I can tell him about friendship.
—Susan on November 21, 2012The most meaningful event in 2012 was when my three boys got together with their families and held a family meal get together. This is a very rare event as one of my boys lives in the America British Islands. They did this just for me and I am so very thankful.
—Carolyn Wallace on November 21, 2012The most important thing to me is my family and that is what I’m most thankful for this Thanksgiving. I need all of them and they on the other hand also need me and I think this really keeps me going.
—Ann Boehm on November 21, 2012I am thankful for all of my quilting friends. I find that quilters are generally the givers of the world, not the takers. They are always eager to help out when the seams don’t match or when nothing in life "seems" to be going right. Thank you to all of them……they’ve been there for me when I needed them.
—becky marshall on November 21, 2012In January my husband and I celebrated our 44th wedding anniversary, but I fell in love with him the moment I saw him when I was just in 9th grade. I’m thankful every single day for this precious man that God has put in my life. He is kind, generous, loving, loyal and everything I could have every hoped for. But…most of all…he never,ever complains when I want MORE FABRIC. Now how could anyone top that!!!
—Kay Wolfinbarger on November 21, 2012thankful for my large family
—barbara woods on November 21, 2012I’m thankful for a wonderful journey to California with one friend from Belgium and another from Australia.
—Brigitte on November 21, 2012My family, friends, and quilting projects.
—elizabeth wilbur on November 21, 2012There is a lot of things I am thankful for, but most of all, the People almost all of them in the terrible Qld Floods in 2011 are in their new homes or back in their rebuilt ones.
—Meryl B on November 21, 20122012 has been huge for me. I was diagnosed with breast cancer at the end of 2011 and this year has been all about treatment. I’m so grateful I live in Australia, where even those with no private health cover are given the same medical help as those who have it.
, and that I was able to work through most of my treatment.
—Kayt on November 21, 2012I was blessed with doctors who acted swiftly; surgeons who had amazing skills; pathology staff who could put a blood sample through the necessary tests in an hour and nurses who did all they could to explain the procedures and answer all my questions through Chemotherapy and Radiation.
I’m so thankful that I was one of the fortunate ones that didn’t react too badly to Chemo drugs, that I looked pretty good bald
I’m thankful that everyone at work has been so supportive, and that the company I work for decided to make The Mater Foundation their charity of the year so that we can all give back to the Mater Hospital here in Brisbane, who have given me the best possible treatment – for free.
And I’m thankful that I’m a Quilter – that I was able to turn to something to keep me occupied when things were rough and having got through the worst of times, I have something beautiful to remind me that no bad situation lasts forever and in the midst of dispair we can all create a little comfort for ourselves and for others.
(I just read the entries before mine and am in tears. What wonderful stories of faith, commitment and endurance!) I am most grateful for a job, albeit temporary. It has lifted my spirits and restored my confidence in my abilities. I dearly miss the time I spent quilting when I wasn’t working; but I’m very thankful to be working in a job I totally enjoy.
—Janet Lenger on November 21, 2012I’m most thankful for the love of a great man. My hubby. When I was unable to do things because of surgery, he was always there with a shoulder to cry on, an arm to lean on or a strong hand when I needed to be helped up from a chair. I don’t think I could have gotten along so well with out him. He’s my rock, my shelter in a storm, and the love of my life for 55 years.
—Barbara Adams on November 21, 2012I am thankful for my husband. He is truly a gift from God. It warms my heart to see how he treats my 94 year old mother. He is so kind to her. She is blind and has a heart condition. He walks her out to the car when we take her shopping. He holds her hand. He encourages her by calling her, "Young Lady," when he talks to her on the phone. My husband blesses me in other ways to numerous to tell. I am thankful to the Lord for the gift of my husband.
—Jeannette Bessler on November 21, 2012I am thankful for the camaraderie shared between the USA and Canada.Thank goodness for peaceful borders and good neighbours. In times of trouble we have been there for each other; be it fires, hurricanes or any number of other disasters. May peace be with you on your day of thanksgiving. Best wishes from Canada.
—Wendy van Haastregt on November 21, 2012I live in Florida but the Jersey Shore is my home and my children and grand children still live near Belmar, N.J. So I am most thankful that all my friends and family in N.J. were spared by Hurricane Sandy. Yes they were without heat or electricity for 10 days But they didn’t lose their their homes or sustain much flooding or damage. The beaches and boardwalks will never be the same and parts of the area are unrecognizable but that can be rebuilt. My heart breaks for those who did lose their homes and everything in it. So needless to say, even though we are 1000 miles apart, this will be a very thankful Thanksgiving. We still continue to pray for the people in the Northeast.
—Kathleen Massaro on November 21, 2012I would say my daughters. I have a patchwork family…a step-daughter (22), a biological daughter(21) and a surprise daughter(13) that fell into my life when she was eight. There have been times I wondered if the stiches of love and faith would hold or if this family would ever become a cohesive unit. Last week, I took the three sisters to do a surprise portrait for their dad and honestly, the beauty and sisterhood of these three young ladies brought tears to my eyes. I’m thankful for the bond they’ve formed and the knowledge that it will truly make them sisters for life.
—Beth Strand on November 21, 2012My parents died when I was a teenager, and for the past 50-plus years I felt that I had no "family", other than those from my husband’s side of our marriage.
This last year I got a surprise envelope from Peter Barber, who is my second cousin on my father’s side. He and his wife, Karen, have been working on "assembling" the family from the Purdy/Barber genealogy for many years, and have connected with many of us — including ME — so I am VERY grateful for my cousin Peter, who has worked so hard on this major project!
About a month later, I got a phone call from my (deceased and estranged) step-brother’s son, Lloyd (my nephew), so I have even more family! What a wonderful year!
—Sue Chapman on November 21, 2012I am most grateful this year for Grandma and Grandma’s house. My Gram is going to be 94 in January and she is always there with open arms, a forgiving heart and a nice meal. I have been able to go there many times this year and spend days with her, to get away from pressures at home and my job. My Gram lets me use her sewing machine while she is hand quilting, so I always take lots of fabric and such with me. Last weeks trip even scored me a new quilting book with wonderful quilt pictures.
—Peg Sullinger on November 21, 2012Oh my gosh, where to start the grateful for list: faith, family, friends,and health. I’m grateful to my wonderful husband of 38 years for the time of my life, my kids for their presence in my life and gifting me with wonderful grandchildren, my students who bring me joy and challenges year after year, my teaching partners who brighten my life and lighten my load, my quilting friends and their awesome talents and of course my quilting stash!
—Kathy Gaines on November 21, 2012After 3 months of multiple family members with health emergencies (Altzheimers, stroke/broken hip, fall/fractured skull/concussion, and my own possible cancer scare); we are now all on the mend. As for myself: NO fibroids, NO systs, and most importantly NO CANCER! Thank you Lord.
—Pati on November 21, 2012I am always thankful for my children, husband and family of course but an event in my life has brought me a whole different perspective. It will be 6 years this coming March that something unknown put me in a wheelchair and many hospitals, doctors later I am still in the chair. Throughout this whole experience my husband has been there to pick up the slack and to make things easier for me to be able to do more in our home while we are now trying to build new. The change has not been easy but it has also given me a completely different perspective on family. My husbands family has been through alot of hospital stays and passings in the last 5 years and we have been there through it all. I have answered many calls in which I was able to help one or another through a tough time dealing with medical issues and just there when they needed an ear, something I could not do if I had been up and around and working still. Everyone knows they can call me anytime, day or night and I will be there for them. I did not have the easiest family growing up or even now but my husbands family through it all has been there and through everything good or bad I am there for them as they have been there for us. For this I will be forever thankful!
—Jody on November 21, 2012I am most thankful for my Husband – He keeps me on target when I get off. He is the center of my level. He is my closest friend, my best buddy. I would be lost without him. I thank God every day for bringing my husband into my life.
—Cathryn H. on November 21, 2012Our house was destroyed in a fire mid April. We got out, at 3:30am, with the clothes on our back. So each of us are thankful for our lives. It’s odd to express such gratitude despite loosing everything but the affirmation by the fire department that we did the right thing, and then seeing news stories of people who are severely burned who did not have the same opportunity to leave; both resolve us with overwhelming gratitude and a deep affinity and compassion for those on the east coast.
changed and full of grace
—Lorraine on November 21, 2012My husband is who I am most thankful for. We’ve been married 32 years. Three years ago, I was rear ended in a car accident that left me unable garden, cook and clean. . .well, I wasn’t too bummed about the cleaning! So he has had to pick up the chores and he’s done it without EVER saying a grouchy word about the situation. He’s also helped me readjust my quilting tools/equipment so although, what I do is different from what I could do before the accident, I didn’t have to give up quilting too. Every day, he tells me how thankful he is that he still has me. . .his Princess! I’m thankful that he still wants to be my Prince Charming!!
—Terry K on November 21, 2012My brothers, husband and I surprised our parents with a 50th wedding anniversary party. It was so nice seeing them enjoy family, meal and cake. Lots of laughs, hugs and kisses. It was wonderful!
—Jeannie on November 21, 2012I am grateful to God who has given me such a beautiful world to explore, see and touch, the health as I age to go and do. Because of Him I have wonderful family, friends and neighbors, quilting/sewing friends. Life is rich with blessings too numerous to count.
—Marilyn Koestler on November 21, 2012I am thankful for my mother. She got me addicted to this quilting habit. I continue to learn so much from her. She was very ill for three months last year at this time. I am so lucky to still have her around to teach me more about quilting especially appliqué.
—Beth H on November 21, 2012I am most thank to have had Nadine Stroud in my life. We lost her to heart disease in Jun and she left a great void. She had started and keep our quilting group together of the years. Always show love and her quilt knowledge and experience. It is people like her that make this world go round.
—JOANNE BRYAN on November 21, 2012Two of my three bedrooms were overwhelmed with quilting and embroidery items. So I purchased a portable cabin and one of Nadine and my mutual friends surprised me with a wooden sign in memory of Nadine. The sign is a slab of a tree trunk with "Rusty Needles" on it for all of us ole gals that keep practicing the art and gather twice a month in the cabin.
I am very grateful to God for letting my husband have some more years with me. Last year, on Christmas day, my husband passed out and had to have an aortic valve replaced. We both experienced God’s peace through out the whole ordeal and God still is not done with my husband. God has something in plan for him.
—Leann Williams on November 21, 2012Well I am really very thankful for my two Granddaughters. They are very young, one year old and three years old. I am going through some changes with my family of origin and my beautiful granddaughters help me keep a perspective of what is really important in life. Thank you God for Granddaughters.
—Grace on November 21, 2012I am grateful for my fabulous daughter and all that she has given me. This month she and her husband will celebrate their fourth wedding anniversary and have given me a beautiful granddaughter, now 4 months old. Of course I am not prejudiced or anything but she is absolutely gorgeous. While my daughter was growing up I never felt I was the kind of mother I wished to be. I always hoped I was doing the ‘right’ thing. Well, I never cease to be amazed, the unending admiration, and unlimited pride in the beautiful woman and mother she has become. She is everything I wished I could be. And I thank Our Heavenly Father for his love and guidance. Happy Thanksgiving everyone.
—Sharon Baldwin on November 21, 2012I am grateful for all the friends I have volunteering together for the Friends of the Library. We have fun working with each other. It is the high point of my week!
—Pat on November 22, 2012Our oldest son is home with his wife and family, after being deployed four times since 2003. We’re very thankful that he just about done with his military career and has been protected by God and many prayers as he has served all over the Middle East. I made him a special honor and service quilt as his homecoming and presented it to him at his surprise welcome home party a couple of weeks ago. Not to many dry eyes in the house. So happy that he will be at our table of feasting tomorrow. Happy Thanksgiving to you all!
—Jeanne M on November 22, 2012Jesus Christ – For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten so that whosoever believeth in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life – John 3:16
—LisaT on November 22, 2012I am most thankful and grateful in 2012 for my family even though we are a very small family. Two events stand out, my Dad’s 90th birthday. We had my sister from Ireland and her two children and my only two cousins come to Hobart Tasmania to help my Dad celebrate. As my sister and her family live so far away, Dad has only seen his youngest grand children who are 7 and 10 a few times. Then this last weekend, my two other sisters and I walked 50km in one day as part of a fundraising charity event. I couldn’t have done it without them or without our fabulous support crew, my husband and our two cousins. It was a huge day and I am thankful they were all there to help me and support me!
—Eddie on November 22, 2012I am so thankful to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who has shed His blood willingly for me so that I now have a heavenly inheritance. I am so blessed with a wonderful husband of 49 years, a beautiful daughter and great son-in-love and 3 precious grandsons and a darling new granddaughter. God has been soooooooo good to me. I’ll forever Praise His Holy Name.
—Mary Ann on November 22, 2012I am most grateful to God this year for more time with my husband in Hawaii. Hawaii is my hearts home and my husband takes me back every year for vacation and restoration. Last year as we were making plans for our trip my husband didn’t feel well. A trip to his cardiologist showed he needed a triple bypass. Since he had a triple bypass 13 years previous no local Dr.s would do the surgery and we had to travel to Cedars Sinai Medical Center. So our vacation was in Beverly Hills at the Cedars Sinai Medical Center. It was touch and go, but my Sweetheart survived and we just got back from our vacation this year in my hearts home-Hawaii. We are so very thankful for the gift of time together.
—Sharon Scott on November 22, 2012This Thanksgiving Day I am so very thankful for so many people in my life but without doubt I am always most thankful for the God-man Jesus Christ who has healed me in every way by His strips and has covered all my many faults and sins with His sacrifice on the cross. He has enabled me, with His reserrection, to live forever in the presence of our Eternal God who loves me with a love that I can not begin to fatham. He KNOWS me, even in ways I do not know myself, and yet HE STILL LOVES ME and wants me to be His friend and in His presence for eternity. He even considers me His "treasured possession". Can you imagine?! My husband, now with the Lord, knew me very well a my faults and still he loved me and enjoyed being with me. Yet God knows me intimately even before thoughts enter my mind and still He chose to die for me. Would Jim have died in my place? It would have more than difficult, if not impossible even with his love for me. But Jesus chose the most painful death and endured it for me so I will never have to. But reasons for my love for Him go beyond even that. He is a friend now, not just in the future. I live alone now and have good and bad days. He is here for both. He comforts , nudges, disciplines, indulges me constantly. He brings peace and rest; laughes with me and shows me how to laugh at myself with all my blunders. And when I can’t find my glasses He reminds me that He knows where they are and leads me to them. He mades sure I have the necessities for life and even provides many of mywants. AND while I can’t be with my children and grandchildren all the time and I certainly am not wise enough to solve their problems, He is and is just as generous with them as He is with me. If you haven’t met Jesus yet, I’m sure it is difficult for you to believe all I have written. But after a lifetime of blundering in life I have come to know the deep love and patience of the God-man Jesus Christ for whom I am forever thankful. Loretta Austin
—loretta austin on November 22, 2012I am thankful that the quilt store I was managing was closed this year by the owners. Don’t misunderstand, I loved my job and the people I was working for and with! But now, after months of looking for another position and running into walls,a friend and I are starting our own quilt shop. It is amazing to me how what we see as a problem, God turns ito something wonderful! We are excited about our new adventure and have the support of our families! Lovely.
—Sandi on November 22, 2012I am most thankful for family. Especially high on my list at this time of year is the week I just spent with my sister doing our own quilt retreat and then a shop retreat. Thanks to all who made it possible for us to share our passion.
—Peg on November 22, 2012I am most thankful that my daughter, who was in an abusive marriage, decided she had had enough, and she moved. Although she moved halfway across the country, and I wont see her as much, I am so glad she is in a good environment now, and learning to like life again.
—Madeline on November 22, 2012I am thankful to have come through breast cancer treatment which seems to have been successful and which will hopefully enable me to see my sons grow up. I am thankful for the wonderful doctors and the research which means I get to live a little longer and I try to make sure I make something each and every day to show my new appreciation for a life which was taken for granted prior to cancer. Life is a blessing: everything else is a bonus.
—Gaynor on November 22, 2012The place I am most thankful for is my own home.
—Valerie A. Clark on November 22, 2012I am Thankful for the the man I married 40 years ago. he retired this this year and we have spent some time getting to know each other. he was a truck driver. now we have time to take trips together.
—Linda Moseley on November 22, 2012I am truly thankful for my husband and two daughters this year. They have really had to deal with a lot for me since I fell and broke both wrists this past August. When that happened all personal dignity disappears and your loved ones end up doing things they didn’t plan on. My family did it without fussing. I have some very close friends that have been there during this as well.
—Deanna Daugherty on November 22, 2012I am thankful for my daughter who has helped me through some medical problems which prevented me from doing some basic daily activies. She cooked her first turkey today at my house because I am still unable to lift think. Thank my daughter.
—Marguerite Namdar on November 22, 2012I am most grateful for the 12 dogs and 8 cats in the animal colony at my Veterinary Nursing school. These animals give us nothing but unconditional love as we learn how to take care of their medical and social needs. I have adopted 3 of the cats from previous years, and am grateful to be able to live with these sweet, loving pets. I am truly blessed!
—Joanne Lenigan on November 22, 2012It seems no matter what question you ask, quilters respond with inspiring, heartfelt answers. It is a privilege to read about other people’s lives, struggles, and triumphs. I thank everyone who has answered before me; I read each reply and was so touched.
For me, the event of 2012 for which I am most thankful is the reelection of President Obama. I believe in his ideals and goals for our country, and trust in his leadership. When I voted for him, I cast a vote for equality, compassion, and progress.
—Beth T. on November 23, 2012Of course I am thankful for my family but my children live far away in another country. I live on Planet Venezuela with my husband and I am truly thankful for my iPod and the plentiful, varied and interesting free podcasts I get from the BBC which keep me sane, stop me going mad in traffic and accompany all my quilting efforts. I’m also thankful for the diverse women of our very small quilting group, one from India, two from Indonesia, one from Germany, one Venezuelan, one from Holland and myself from England. What a blessing.
—Juliet Wood on November 23, 2012My Daughter Brandie: Brandie was a child who was born without the odds in her favor and overcame and has had several blows as an adult in her life. She married a wonderful man Greg 5 years ago and he has served our Country in the Marines in Operation Desert Storm and is currently serving in the Army and returned this year from Afganistan with medical problems and was stationed in El Paso, Tx (they live in Arizona) my precious daughter flew to El Paso to be with her husband as he went into surgery and recovery. Greg has been in El Paso for 8 months of this year. Brandie has made several trips to see her husband. The week of Halloween Greg and Brandie announced that they are pregnant!!! THis in itself is a miracle my daughter had Bactacocil Spinal Menengitis when she was 20 and servived and also has survived cervical cancer. So our Miracle baby will be born in May of 2013 we are going to blessed beyond measure. My daughter is my inspiration and my glimps of how wonderful Jesus is and the blessings of a new life handed to us through Brandie
—Debi Martin on November 24, 2012I am thankful for my daughter Terri and her husband Mark. My hubby & I turned 65 this year and she gave us a surprise party, a family picnic day, a classy dinner and tickets to see War Horse. I was not looking forward to joining this new age group called Senior and she made it such a fun and enjoyable entry. They gave us a two week adventure we will never forget when we talk about it in the future.
—Barb E on November 24, 2012I am most thankful for the wonderful trip our family got to take back in February
—Carmen on November 24, 2012This year I am thankful for yet another year with my dear husband, who has a rare blood disorder, making any kind of surgery or procedure very dangerous. I nearly lost him 3 times last year. I am thankful for my two wonderful sons, who make me feel that the time I have spent on this earth has counted for something. And I am thankful for the blessings of my extended family…my three brothers and their families, my dad and mom, and their spouses, my bonus mom and dad. Just yesterday we all got together….it was supposed to be just a short visit with parents, and turned into a full blown reunion. My bonus mom explained to me later that every time my brothers find out we’ll be in town, they all drop their plans for the day to come visit. My heart is full knowing that they care so much!
—Marie P on November 24, 2012Most grateful for family and friends, all the outings, and just knowing they are nearby. And its the little things, not a perfect year, but no real castrophies either; sometimes the status quo is just right.
—Carol on November 26, 2012Carol
i am thankful i am not a new widow. my husband fell down a flight of 14 steps at his sister’s house in the middle of the night last June. it so easily could have been The End. i was at home in Alberta, he was in Nova Scotia for a well-loved uncle’s funeral. i told him he had gone there to attend a funeral, not create one – a comment which leads me to be thankful for humour, which helps the daily mini and major traumas in our lives.
—Carol on November 26, 2012