JOY!

With the recent tragedy is seems odd to title a posting with joy, but I feel that we all need to feel joy and bring joy to others. Joy is what fills our hearts with peace in a cruel world. One way to bring joy is to share it with others. I have been making small ornaments from a free pattern by Gail Pan. The original design has stars, but I decided to add the word Joy, to mine. I love how they came out and it is something I can hand out to patients in the nursing home who have no decorations or family to visit. A little something to hang on their door or bed, to remind them that someone does care. Another way to bring joy would be to donate to a giving tree or toys for tots.

Another way to bring joy is to send a friend an unexpected gift, like a sweet little snow bird. Paulette of Sweet P Quilting and Creations sent me this snowbird, I just love it and it brings a smile to my face. I think I want a whole flock of them.

And another friend, Carole of Quilting Adventures sent me this beautiful quilt. I was totally surprised by this gift, one that is beautifully made and that she spent so much time making something so special for me. It brings joy to be able to have something on my wall to remind me of such a wonderful friendship. I just hope that my small gifts to others can bring them as much joy as they have given me with their friendships even if we have never met.

I wish I had thought to get a better photo outside, before I hung it up, it is so beautiful and beautifully made with homespuns and printed fabrics. I had to crawl up a ladder since it is hanging above my entry door. I found these clip on rings at home depot, perfect for hanging a quilt on a rod.