Glenda's notes on Presentation at RWW

This past weekend my husband, Bill, and I had the privilege to travel to Kansas City Missouri to attend the Navy Returning Warrior Workshop. Upon arrival, our first challenge was to "sneak" 85 quilts past the military group that was milling in the entry lounge area and get them safely and secretly tucked away in a secure room.  After two luggage cart trips, three large bed sheets, and lots of laughter, we managed to accomplish our task. 

The evening banquet was a truly memorable event. We had a delicious meals followed by a host of heartfelt presentations.  I will say that no presentation got more attention than mine, the Quilts of Valor presentation. I was moved to tears when, upon my final words, I received a standing ovation in appreciation. The military men and women, who were draped in their new beautiful gifts, reached out to hug me and shake my hand.  It was an awesome moment. All you amazing Quilts of Valor volunteers deserve to feel the deep level of emotions that were felt this evening. I am so blessed to have had this experience. 

Glenda P 

DuPage County Veterans Center Presentation

Thanks to Rich G, yesterday we had the honor and privilege to present quilts to some Vietnam Veterans.  Thank you  for your service!!

ok, I was told to share this. But first of all I am not meaning to say we can do this, but I just can't try to do something. A couple weeks ago I presented 7 quilts at this Veterans Breakfast. 6 were Vietnam Vets and one Iraqi. Well, Dennis, the Iraqi Veteran approached me and said that he recently came home (it was either Jan or Feb of this year) and his 'unit" was having this family picnic this July...Would I be able to present quilts to his unit? NOTE: To me it tells me what his quilt meant to him and he wants to share with his fellow comrades Well, long story shorter, he said there were 130 in his unit! So, I asked him if we could break the numbers down and present a few and keep presenting until we get the whole unit! So, if it's ok with his Commanders, I'm thinking maybe we can chip away from this unit. Their "base" is Ft Sheridan. Here is his original email where he sent me the info on his unit: "Rita, I met you at the veterans breakfast this morning. The link is a brief article of the National Guard unit I mentioned. I will keep you informed about our family day in July. My information is below. http://www.il.ngb.army.mil/pao/newsrelease.aspx?id=904 Any questions please email, call, or text. Dennis

So, that is why I put out a call to our machine quilters.  I have about a dozen tops needing quilting and more will be coming in as they usually do, at our next sew in.   I'm thinking maybe we can go to this picnic and present a few (if that's ok with the Commanding officers--haven't heard yet). He tells me they work out of Ft Sheridan --another reason I thought we should at least try---that's in our own backyard!

See, that's what goes on in the background of our sew-ins. Next Tuesday we are presenting 13 quilts to veterans who suffer from PTSD. AGAIN, this is because one person received a QOV and wants to share with his fellow veterans. I KNOW we can't do it all, but just letting you know how the need is yet out there.
Rita

Upcoming Presentation and sewing with the "kids"

We are "on" for next Tuesday. I spoke with a few of you to go with me to present about a dozen QOV's to this center where these Veterans meet who all suffer from PTSD. Rich tells me there are mostly Vietnam Veterans and one Iraqi Veteran. Email me if you are interested.  It is scheduled for 2:30...and we should be out of there shortly. It's out by the Fox Valley Mall area.  I'm awaiting his email for an address.

I also spoke about sewing with the kids at Cowherd Middle School.  So, right after the presentation we can head over to the school.  A teacher approached me about this after school program with the kids making a QOV top.   I love the opportunity of  inspiring students to honor our military.  So, let me know if you are interested.
Rita

QOV Block Challenge

MQX has issued two new blocks for the Springfield QOV block challenge:  Hourglass Block and Diamond Chain Block.  I have fabric and instructions.  Call or email me and I can send them out to you.
Rita

show and tell from April sew in

Dorothy chipping away at another neat scrappy quilt

Had another small group but again, very productive!!  I believe the Pegs pattern was a hit!  Can't wait to see them put together.  Here is our show and tell:  (thank you Marilyn for sending these--I will learn that new camera)

Pam finished this Sunny Skies

Count on Marilyn to complete these strings

Donna's interpretation of this pretty classy pattern, you think!

Illinois QOV block challenge

Most of you have heard me talking about the quilt show that is coming to Springfield this September.  Well, it's MQX and they have a Quilt of Valor block challenge.  If you are on FB the instructions are there, if not, I have them.  I hope to have some kits made up if you'd like to participate.  We've talked about submitting them as a group, I think this is a good idea.  We will be having a booth at this show, so I'm interested if you are willing to put in a few hours at the booth..I think I'd like to maybe take a class or two at this show.

So, today is sew-in in Yorkville at Sewing Etc.  We have kits for a pattern I think you will like.  Join us.  I'll be there at 10!
Rita

Fabric donation---Thank you

I'd like to take the time to thank everyone who donates fabric.  Most of the time there is no name on the bags left at the shop.  Had a very generous donation this weekend which I've been folding and folding and putting away. 
Rita
PS...see you tomorrow at the sew-in at Sewing Etc., Yorkville.  (newbies---corner of Rt 47 and Cannonball Trail)

Presentation and Sew In Reminder Notice

Yesterday I had the privilege of awarding 7 QOVs..one veteran from Afghanistan and 6 from Vietnam. Wish I would have had a camera with me..it was at 7:30! I tell you them quilts sure do look great all wrapped around those veterans!! 

Tuesday, March 15, we meet to sew at Sewing Etc, Yorkville.   10 AM - 3 or 4 :)  We cut kits for a nice and easy pattern called, Pegs.  So, come with your filled bobbins, sewing machines.
Rita

Cut-in Schedule....Tuesday, April 8

ok, have spoken to Kelly and we will meet at Sewing Etc., Yorkville, next Tuesday, April 8.  Bring along your rotary cutter, ruler and a pair of scissors.  We're working on the QOV scrap mess I have here!!!  And of course we can run for lunch at our favorite place!
Rita

Schedule a cut-in???

So, you wanted to have a cut-in?  I show the 8th, 22nd, and 29th (of April, that is) open for me.  Let me know.   Pretty neat we haven't had to schedule one in quite awhile.  Thinking if we have enough help, we might just get it all done!!
Rita

Show and Tell from yesterday's sew in...

Last month's project

Blocks made at the Expo

Looking good!!

Jane said "many pieces"!!
 

look at what Martha did with some donated blocks!



Shirley had several working on this neat patriotic quilt