Anne and I met through quilting many years ago and became instant friends! My first Bloom Creek pattern, Blooms for Annabelle, was designed and named for her and I always told her she was as much a part of Bloom Creek as I am!
We called each other "sister friends", which best describes the close, meaning
ful relationship we had. For those of us who were fortunate enough to know Anne, I think we would all agree that our lives were truly enriched by just knowing her. I truly believe I am a better person for the years I spent with her and will have wonderful memories of our friendship for the rest of my life.Not only was Anne an avid quilter who especially loved applique, English paper piecing and embroidery, she was proficient in needlepoint and made the most beautiful, one-of-a-kind Christmas stockings for each member of her family. During my last trip to Kentucky to spend a week with her in April, she was trying her best to finish the last stocking for her grandson who was born last fall. She had a sense of urgency about finishing it so that his stocking would be able to hang with the rest this Christmas. I promised to finish it for her, and after a quick brush-up on my needlepoint skills, I have been working on the stocking every chance I get, which has brought me a sense of joy that has been quite therapeutic.
I must admit that I have been in somewhat of a design "funk" for the past 6 weeks. However, I recently decided to design a new quilt that will be called "Remembering Annabelle", and I'm happy to say, I'm no longer in my funk!. I instinctively purchased a new fabric bundle at quilt market by 3 Sisters (for Moda) called "Etchings", most likely because 3 Sisters was one of Anne's favorite fabric designers. So, with Etchings on deck, I'm designing a quilt that will encompass many of Anne's favorite things. I hope to have it finished and ready to introduce by August!
And so my sweet friend, though you are missed more than words can say, you are always in my thoughts and will always be a part of Bloom Creek.
Until next time. . . Vicki
7 comments:
That sounds like the perfect tribute. So sorry about your loss, and glad to hear you're getting your design mojo back.
You are so right that our lives were enriched by knowing Anne. She brought a wonderful quilting group, Anne's Belles, together here in KY. Blooms for Annabelle was the first quilt we did together and we learned so much - about quilting and about life. I look forward to your latest design. With Anne for guidance, it will be as lovely as she is!
I am so sorry for your loss. I think you have found the perfect tribute to your friend.
Hi Vicki.. Karen told me about your dear friend Anne. I am so sorry for your loss... what a wonderful and healing tribute to your friend I cant wait to see the quilt.
Such a touching tribute my friend. She was as lucky to have you as you were to have her.
Anne touched us all Vicki...in one way or another...her generous spirit and never ending faith made her that much more special..I think of her often and know that she is watching over you!
I'm so sorry for your loss. A quilt is a fantastic tribute, and that stocking is STUNNING! I was recently in Sew Simple and I saw some of your quilts hanging in there. They are beautiful as always! They said that I missed you by a couple of hours...
Nicole Brouillette
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