Tying Up Loose Ends

 

 

I am notorious for starting projects....big projects....and then losing interest and moving on.  This winter/spring, I have tried to go through my stash of unfinished projects, deciding whether or not they are worthy of my time, and choosing to either finish them up or throw them out.  Actually, I have been trying to do this with all aspects of my life - deciding what is worthy of my time, what enriches my life and what doesn't, and where they fit into my priority pyramid.

 

My family is at the pinnacle of that pyramid - their needs, wants, dreams and desires.  There's nothing more satisfying to me than supporting those I love.  I like to think I've become very skilled at it.  This alone tends to take up most of my time.  Farm comes second. What little bit is left over is divided among friends, extended family, and personal interests/fulfillment...hence all the unfinished projects.  I am not complaining, I just need to simplify, prioritize, and weed out the unnecessary.  It's proving harder than it should be. I have a hard time not trying and wanting to do it all.

 

With all the time I invest in being a mom, although validating and fulfilling, I tend to lose myself - who I am aside from that role.  That is another thing that has made me somewhat unsettled.  I can see my children learning, growing, and moving on.  Once they are gone, which is a good thing, I don't want to be left feeling empty, wondering who I am and what I have to offer.  I am working through these things just like I am working through my drawers of projects.

 

So in honor of my ramblings and that it was National Quilting Day yesterday (I think), I am posting some pictures of a quilt I started for Hannah about 5 years ago.  It is fittingly named Farmer's Daughter.  It's pretty detailed.  It consists of two different types of blocks.  The Farmer's block:

 

 

I've done them in multiple colors.  I like to think they look like fields with pivot irrigation.  Then there are 64 red star blocks.  I've used 8 different reds.  Hannah's favorite color has always been red.

 

I've gotten through 2 of the 8 fabrics and started on the third. Only 47 blocks left to go.  Each block takes about 20 minutes - probably less for someone more skilled.  I keep telling myself  "just a couple blocks a day" and I will get there. 

 



 

 Although my quilts never end up perfect, they are a perfect metaphor for life. You take scraps, organize, put them in place and create something new, hopefully useful, and maybe beautiful.  Wish me luck....I need it.



Walter

 

 There seem to be few "real" people left in this world; the ones that truly live what they believe.  Last week the world lost one of those few. 

 

 My first encounter with Walter Knapp happened when I became friends with his son, Brent.  He was always so gracious and welcomed me into their home...maybe it helped that I was willing to gather worms out in the pasture.  What a fun memory from that time.

 

As life moved on and I got married, I was fortunate to be once again acquainted with Walter.  He was a dairyman and so was my husband.  Both families had been in the industry a long time and had spent time together showing cows at the fair, working on co-op boards, and association through our community.  Both David and I have fond memories of Walter.  As time moved along and things have changed, Walter did not.  No matter what the circumstance, he was always willing to stop for visit, ask how we were doing, inquire about the farm, and ask "well, what do you know?". 

 

If ever there was a man that truly loved people, regardless of differences or short comings, it was Walter Knapp.  When David phoned me to tell me of his unfortunate situation.  We both were a little astonished at the emotion that overcame us.  Why so many tears?  Then again, why not?  He was a man with a big heart, a big voice, and willing to express his joy.

 

During a long drive home after hearing, all I could do was think of a way to honor him and the words that would describe such a great man.  Following is my tribute to him:

 

Up before dawn

A cathedral of stars

His form of worship

Life on a farm.

The care of his land

Animals to keep

Well being of his neighbors

Other's needs there to meet.

In the shadow of his mountain

Heritage held dear

Tradition was honor

To his soul was kept near.

Family his glory

The circle so large

His greatest accomplishment

Patriarch, his charge.

Salt of the earth

A life savored best

By doing what's right

Toil without rest.

An honest day

An inclusive heart

A man of his word

Joy to impart.

 

The light of humanity is a little dimmer in your absence.

You will be missed - your smile, kind words, and positive outlook.

May you rest in peace.