Joy’s Heart Cross Bookmark © Wanda Salmans 2016
The center of this cross is Joy’s Heart (pattern found on My Patterns tab) with arms added. It’s done in one pass with shuttle and ball only, no fancy or difficult techniques. Made with Lizbeth #670 Victorian Red thread in size 20.
This was made in memory of my sister-in-law who loved anything hearts who lost her battle with cancer this last week. We were the same age and though we didn’t see each other often we always enjoyed each other’s company. She will be greatly missed.
I had almost a week to make a bookmark for my brother-in-law but I had a hard time getting started – maybe denial? I finished the last arm and hid the ends a few minutes after the funeral. The picture was taken in the foyer on a table there. I should have found a better background but there were other things to do.
Funerals are hard to attend but can help so much with dealing with loss. Besides all of the memories shared you also reconnect with extended family that unfortunately doesn’t get together often enough. I also find myself reviewing my own life and wonder if I’m doing things I might regret or what things I might regret if I don’t do them.
As family and friends mingled, shared memories and tears, many of us kept saying “we have to stop meeting just at funerals.” Someone decided to do something about that – plans have been started to have a family reunion later this year. I’ve added it to our calendar and we’ve made plans to go. We not waiting until the next funeral.
There is a wonderful poem by Linda Ellis called “The Dash”. It really makes you think.
I'm so sorry about your loss. The poem is lovely and thought-provoking,
I am sure your sister will be happy with the New Years plans, I know that the time of year seems odd when others are busy with the holidays. Take care.
Very sorry for your loss, Wanda. It hasn't been a very benevolent year for your family
The cross bookmark is exquisite & will be treasured.
Thanks for sharing the poem, too.
What a wonderful and thoughtful cross!! 🙂
Sorry for your loss, and happy that you are all doing something about getting together at a much more enjoyable gathering!!
Thank you all for your condolences.