Recently, I purchased a set of vintage blocks at a yard sale. I felt elated, as though I had received a meaningful gift, and I knew that I needed to 'save' the blocks! The blocks were signed and dated in the early 80's, and several had birthdates as well. Curious, I set to work at my computer for a bit of detective work. Low and behold, I was able to find information about the maker of one of the blocks! How fun, I thought, to surprise her by mailing the completed block back to her ;-)
Yesterday, I received a phone call from Charlotte, who had received my surprise in the mail! She initially thought it was a Birthday gift (apparently I have good timing!), then noticed her own signature on the block! Although she did not recall actually making the block (32 yrs ago!), she noted that indeed it was her own signature, and was a bit perplexed as to who and why and what was behind this gift. My goal exactly! We had a nice visit over the phone, and I was happy to learn that Charlotte is still an avid quilter and was thrilled with the gift :-)
I told Charlotte I completed one for myself as well! Teenage Sue looks to me a thoughtful young lady, and I will enjoy hanging her in my sewing room. She will remind me of the importance of Goodwill, and also how fortunate I am to be part of the quilting community.
Although this is certainly not charity in the customary sense of the word, it is a random act of kindness. Completing the blocks gave me a fun sense of accomplishment.
It is I who feels like the recipient of goodwill :-)
Linking up with Le Challenge #13, whose creative inspiration this month is Charity!
On the subject of Charity Quilting, if you have not yet heard the news:
Katie, at SwimBikeQuilt, announced this week that this year's 100 Quilts for Kids event will be headed up by Heather from Quilts in the Queue. I just visited her site and signed on to follow so as not to miss new info!
Wow! What a lovely post to read. The design reminds me of the Holly hobby dolls.
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely story. How good thr you managed to track her down!
ReplyDeleteWhat an amazing and fun story! Thanks for sharing and linking up to le challenge! Great to be following 100 quilts for kids too!
ReplyDeleteThes blocks are beautiful, what a wonderful find
ReplyDeleteLOVE Random acts of kindness, there need to be more of them :) and I adore the navy strawberry fabric, it is too cute!
ReplyDeleteabsolutely love this story. a real feel good factor
ReplyDeleteI love how you bordered the blocks and turned them into mini quilts! Isn't it wonderful that you found the original owner and were able to send it to her, and in time for her birthday too!
ReplyDeleteSweet! Well done.
ReplyDeleteHow exciting that she was there and called you!!! I'm jealous of the experience. :)
ReplyDeleteThat's such a fun story! How cool that you were able to find her.
ReplyDeleteThis is just terrific and I'm sure she will treasure it.
ReplyDeleteHow awesome is this?!?!!! Loved reading this!
ReplyDeleteIt looks like the second one is based on the Holly Hobbie illustrations from the 60s and 70s. I've never before seen a quilt block based on those illustrations, but it right that there should be one!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great story! I'm sure that little surprise in the mail made Charlotte's day, if not her whole month!
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