This past week I celebrated a rather “landmark” birthday. I was overjoyed to discover the thoughtful, and sneaky, plan of my dear friend and co-travel leader, Wendy Rieves. She invited quilting friends to send me black and white 4-patch signature blocks (she sent me a copy of this after the fact).
Woo Hoo! Sommer and I have had a lot of fun getting the mail each day!
You may remember I recently posted about a new lecture I’m putting together called “Friendship Quilts: Then and Now” (click here for that post). How clever of Wendy to think of combining that idea with birthday blocks. It was so thoughtful of her to organize this, and I especially appreciated her requesting a favorite prayer, Scripture or note of encouragement to be written on each block.
This past Thursday my Open Lab class held a lovely surprise birthday party, complete with cupcakes, singing, and more blocks. What a blessing! Then, last night, my dear husband threw me a lovely surprise party – family, friends, food, fun and another block!
I have received this beautiful pile of blocks so far – and Wendy was kind enough to suggest the “block party” last all month! It is a joy to read each one and think about the dear quilter/friend who took the time to make it for me. I can’t wait to see the friendship quilt they will become.
I want to send a BIG THANK YOU to everyone who sent a block and made this birthday a very special one for me. And my BIGGEST THANK YOU to Wendy. We’ve had so many wonderful times together and I look forward to many more. I thank the Lord for you!
Just a reminder!
Wendy and I will be taking a group of quilters on a cruise from Quebec to Boston in September of next year aboard the Norwegian Dawn! We’ll not only explore these 2 beautiful cities, but we have stops in Bar Harbor, Maine; Halifax, Nova Scotia; and the Bay of Fundy. We’re planning many special events and projects to thrill quilters of every level, plus – non-quilters are also welcome!
The sign up is going great! We still have a few cabins available. To read all about it click here!
PS We have a few travelers who are looking for a roommate. If you are interested please contact Kristi at (262)786-6763 or
Laura Krasinski says
It’s going to be a very cool quilt!
Pat Gilane says
Love seeing that pile of Friendship Blocks for a Friendship Quilt. Thanks to Wendy for organizing it and for sharing your milestone birthday with all of us. Your lecture should be great, just as you are.
Laurie Neubauer says
So happy you had a wonderful birthday surprise with the friendship blocks. Thank you for sharing and keep celebrating all month, or all year for that matter. God Bless, Laurie
Wendy Rieves says
Anyone is welcome to send a four patch to Chris. I am sure she would love to have a block from any of her blog friends!