Right now I’m sitting in an almost dark classroom. Students have gone, the vendors, helpers and committee have gone and the music that inspires me resonates through the building. By the light of my iPad screen my fingers are illuminated by my trusty iPad screen and dancing over the keys to the music.
How can I put into words how I feel about this event?
I’m an Australian, this is not my country and yet we all come together in the spirit of Quilting, I’m no different to any other person at this event. I know I’m looked at sideways in OZ because I’ve adopted this program. I’m not guessing that…. I’ve been told so many times. My theory is that people are people no matter where they live.
There is no signage on the side of the road that states a child in Australia is any different to a child in America, or that an Australian can only fundraise in their own country. The children in this community desperately need assistance and the $60,000 we have raised and the thousands of hours of voluntary service have made our event just special.
No organisation is running this event to make money. We are making money through sharing.
We are heart rich.
The vendors are set up and we had a small reception late this afternoon to meet and greet everyone in this partnership. There were 100’s of people in the room of varying ages, individuals who have one goal in mind. The youth of Ottero County.
I had a huge lump in my throat this morning when I was taken to see a wall of Geraldine quilts made by 8-13 year old girls in a community that has some incredible challenges. I’m sure you would be filled with pride if these were your Grandies. I’m sure you would have admired the young people, all in their orange shirts who spent an entire day with us. Their youthful spirit put to the test as we asked them to carry machines, help set up booths and then take a quilting class with Miss Sue for a few hours.
Another heart moment is when you learn that the children in the blind school are also making GeraldineQuilts…
The first National Bank has backed us all the way for the past 8 years and are rather proud of our efforts as we are of them.
I’ll tell you a secret in 2018 we will have a huge surprise for everyone who attends… its just darned exciting.
We’ve had two days of classes already and today the vendors open the doors to their stores.
I had no time to photograph yesterday but will add photo today.
A really inspirational text. Thank you for sharing your talents so freely.
Teresa, Sharing is part of life, thank you.
Opportunities to help children develop arise such as this one Pam, and the important thing is that the challenge is taken and run with. It doesn’t matter what town or what country. It’s amazing that you’re involved with this as your profile obviously raises awareness. Another adult will be inspired by your posts to teach children to quilt, even on a smaller scale. Developing children’s skills, develops their confidence and gives them the drive to reach their potential. Good on you…. you’re a tall poppy.
Doreen, the young people are our future and yesterday I met a couple of 8 year olds and an 11 year old boy who had each made a Geraldine in a class… I was so moved when he told me it was awesome. His mum was so proud.
Dear Pam I’m still holding my breath ! Has your computer turned up yet? Hugs Glenda
Glenda, no it hasn’t turned up, despite know where it is, the bureaucracy is horrific, thank you for asking though.
I can feel your heart from here. And your post cracked my heart open — in a good way — “another heart moment is when you learn that the children in the blind school are also making Geraldine quilts…” I actually have tears as I write. And you’ve made me want to learn more about these Geraldine quilts! Thank you so much for writing. A.
A. The geraldine quilt is a piece of textile art I made last year after traveling and photographing in Kenya. Somehow she has traveled the world and her fame goes with her. She has been made by 1000’s of people now. https://iampamholland.com/2015/01/18/geraldine-is-done/
Thank you for your reply! Sounds fascinating and I will take good look. A.
I find you blog fascinating too. good luck as you continue your way through summer.
Aww.. thanks so much. Thanks for your support. A.
So cool to see boys and girls participating! Blessings to you and your NM family for continuing this amazing event.